Friday, February 21, 2014

Displaying Mardi Gras Treasures

If are lucky enough to have caught a special Mardi Gras throw such as a coveted Muses Shoe or Zulu Coconut, you probably want a good way to show off your prizes year long. Below are some display ideas:


Display items in a domed cloche or acrylic box. This will insure that your throw will not be touched by jealous observers


Display Zulu Coconuts in a bowl if you are fortunate to have caught more than one. If you have a single coconut to display, cut and paint a paper towel roll to create a quick stand or use your favorite cup.


Did you know you can melt Mardi Gras beads? You can make light fixtures and bowls buy melting beads in a well ventilated area.

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Gallery Wall Ideas

A gallery wall is an easy way to display loose art or photos that you have collected throughout the years. There are a few ways to display a gallery wall:

SAME COLOR



Keep all frames the same color. Even though your art and photos are all different colors, they will all work together because they are all framed in the same color.


SAME SIZE



An easy way to display photos is to keep all the frames the same size. This way, you don't have to think about placement.


HORIZON LINE 



This technique works well with frames that are all different sizes or if you have a narrow/long wall. Hang frames so that they all follow the same line.


PICTURE SHELF



Similar to the horizon line technique, this is a great way to keep your wall looking neat and tidy.


COVER THE WHOLE WALL



Use large pieces to cover the whole wall. Walls look taller if you hang art higher.


IN THE CORNER



Do you have a bare corner? Or not a lot of wall space? Install your gallery in the corner.


ON AN ANGLE 

15 Gorgeous Gallery Wall Ideas

This is not a technique that is used a lot. But it can look quite striking with the right pieces.


THE ECLECTIC WALL



You can use all different sizes of art and frames. Make sure to keep the same amount of space (usually 2-3 inches) around every piece for a cohesive look.

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

DIY Deco Mesh Garland


Deco mesh is easy to work with, light weight and water proof. Deco mesh garlands are perfect for railings, around doors and along fireplace mantles. Follow the instructions below to make your own garland:

What you will need:

  • 2 large rolls of 10 yd Deco Mesh (I used Mardi Gras colors for this garland)
  • 1 Small roll of 10 yd Deco Mesh
  • Wire
  • Pipe cleaners 
  • Scissors 


Join tables together so that you have a long work surface.

Unwind the wire and secure it on either side of the work surface. This makes the garland much easier to create. I secured the wire to a door handle and a chair.  

Use pipe cleaners that match the deco mesh in your garland. Cut the pipe cleaners in half.

Attach the pipe cleaners to the wire leaving a space of 12" between each pipe cleaner. 


Bunch and gather the deco mesh and twist the pipe cleaners to keep the mesh in place. Make sure you use the same amount of deco mesh for each bunch.

Continue forming puffs without cutting the deco mesh. 

Once you are done with the first color, you can start on the second.

Use the same process to create the second line of puffs. 



Now you can use the smaller size deco mesh to add a third layer.

Deco mesh will keep its shape if you secure it well.

Happy Mardi Gras!

Monday, February 3, 2014

Pops of Bright Color

Transform your home with bold color. Color can completely alter a room, whether you are painting an accent wall or simply adding pops of color with accessories. Check out the photos below for some striking color ideas.

Paint your Built Ins.


 The photo above is a great example of how you can use this year's IT color, Radiant Orchid. Mount colorful art to the outside of bookshelves to break up space and create a unique display.

Paint your Ceilings. 


If you are lucky enough to have high ceilings in your home, this is a great wall to emphasis and bring attention to them.

Paint an Old Piece of Furniture


Paint a traditional piece of furniture with a bold color to help it fit into a more modern room.


Make your Windows Pop.


Install bright window coverings to highlight the colors of nature outside your windows.


Modernize with a Mural 


A wall mural can be a fantastic way to show off your personality.