DIY Life http://www.diylife.com DIY Life http://www.diylife.com/media/feedlogo.gif DIY Life http://www.diylife.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ShelterPop Swap: Stretch Your Bookcase -- Literally!http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/shelterpop-swap-stretch-your-bookcase-literally/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/shelterpop-swap-stretch-your-bookcase-literally/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/03/shelterpop-swap-stretch-your-bookcase-literally/#commentsFiled under: ,

bookcase, rubber band, storage

Photo: Cool Things

I'm all for innovative storage, especially when it comes to displaying my books. Face it -- bookcases can be so dull, especially when your budget calls for Billy after Billy after...Billy. Luckily, ShelterPop has a great solution for a DIY bookcase I can pretty much guarantee you've never seen!:

Enter a fun and flexible (pun intended!) solution. Originally created for Design Showcase 2009 by Pete Oyler, the S T R E T C H Shelf is slated to hit boutiques any minute now with an approximate price point of $120.

Eek. That certainly breaks the bank for me. But what if we used Oyler's product as inspiration for our own rubber band shelving system? I can imagine them working quite well in a modern, industrial space using brightly-colored heavy duty rubber bands and a few stainless screws.

Or try a few animal rubber bands in your child's room as a great way to display light artwork. And for a long, floor-to-ceiling rubber band bookshelf, why not use a bright resistance band used for exercising?

Forget the Billy and book it (ha! another pun!) to your nearest office supply store for the coolest rubber shelving in town. Stretching your dollar never looked so chic.

 

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]]>bookcasebooksrubberrubber bandRubberBandshelterpopstoragestorage solutionErin Loechner2009-11-03T15:00:00+00:00HowNow: How to Install Window Blindshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/26/hownow-how-to-install-window-blinds/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/26/hownow-how-to-install-window-blinds/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/26/hownow-how-to-install-window-blinds/#commentsFiled under: ,

Window treatments can make or break a room, but sometimes installations cost a fortune. Want to know how to install your own window treatment on a budget? Look no further!:


How To Install Window Blinds on Howcast
Easy enough, right? And of course, we've got a few tips and a bit of window history to inspire your project!:

1.If you're mounting the blinds inside the window frame, mark the end brackets at least an inch and a quarter from the face of the glass so the blinds won't touch it.
2. Rubbing wax on the screws before you install the brackets will make them screw in more smoothly. A candle works well.

Did you know that the early Egyptians tied together reeds from the Nile River to create an early version of window blinds? Crazy, right? Good thing all you have to do is head to your local hardware store. Ahhh, such a comfortable life we modern-day folk live.

Good luck!

 

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]]>blindsinstallinstallationwindow treatmentwindowsWindowTreatmentErin Loechner2009-10-26T15:00:00+00:00ShelterPop Swap: Easy Lampshade Updatehttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/20/shelterpop-swap-easy-lampshade-update/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/20/shelterpop-swap-easy-lampshade-update/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/20/shelterpop-swap-easy-lampshade-update/#commentsFiled under: , ,

cat, silhouette, diy, tutorial, lighting, lampshade

Photo: ShelterPop

It's never too late to bring some festive decor into your home, and with this easy DIY lampshade update, chances are you've already got the tools to do so! Don't believe me? You have a lamp and some paper, right? Good. Then get to work:

The only materials you need for this tutorial are as follows:
black paper, a pair of scissors, a pencil and double-stick, clear tape

Yep, that's it!

Your instructions couldn't be easier! Try these few, easy steps on for size:
1. Download, print and cut out the black cat template.
2. Trace the template onto black paper with a pencil.
3. Cut out the cat shape from the black paper
4. Use double stick tape to adhere the silhouette to the inside of the shade.

And with that, you've got an instant DIY trick up your sleeve, perfect for surprising last-minute Halloween guests.


 

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]]>craftdiyhalloweenlamplampshadeErin Loechner2009-10-20T15:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Roses from Maple Leaveshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/19/daily-diy-roses-from-maple-leaves/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/19/daily-diy-roses-from-maple-leaves/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/19/daily-diy-roses-from-maple-leaves/#commentsFiled under: , ,

maple, leaves, bouquet, floral, plants, nature

A sweet maple bouquet will make your darling smile! Photo: iDiy

Want a fun, creative DIY from Mother Nature herself? Look no further than the falling leaves on your front porch, because this is a project straight from heaven! Why not surprise your special someone with a maple leave bouquet? Of course, you'd have to make the leaf into a rose, but with this great photo tutorial, you should have no problem at all!

I'd assume the DIY would work best with moist leaves to prevent cracking and breaking, but other than that --- use your creativity! I'd love to see a multi-colored bouquet with red, orange and vibrant yellow maple leaves. Or, better yet, make a bouquet into a brilliant gift decoration for those fall birthdays you're gearing up to celebrate. Of course, the look would also brighten up a bare wooden wreath to create a cozy, homemade entryway decor that will make your guests smile with delight. See? The possibilities are indeed endless! Happy crafting!

 

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]]>bouquetflowersleavesmapleplantsrosewreathErin Loechner2009-10-19T09:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Create a Custom Tea Sethttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/16/daily-diy-create-a-custom-tea-set/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/16/daily-diy-create-a-custom-tea-set/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/16/daily-diy-create-a-custom-tea-set/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

table decor, tea set, saucers, art, crafts

Want a one-of-a-kind tea set? Look no further! Photo: Aya Rosen, Apartment Therapy

Whoa, nelly. This is my kind of DIY project. With the leaves beginning to change color, I'm dreaming of late nights by the fireplace... with my trusty chai tea, of course. I'd love to own a one-of-a-kind tea set, and it looks like Re-Nest has made that possible -- and on a dime, no less!

All you need are a few key materials to get started. Aya found her tea set at a local thrift shop and scored two saucers for $1.99 and two cups for $2.99. Major score! For paint colors, she used Pebeo Porcelaine 150 in Turquoise and a Pebeo Porcelaine 150 pen in black. Of course, you can get as creative as you'd like with colors, but I think these look smashing together!

From there, you'll need a paintbrush, tissue paper and a jar for water. That's it! Aya has some awesome how-to instructions for how she created her pattern, but if you like to doodle, why not try it free-hand? You'll be guaranteed a unique, custom look that your guests will eye with envy.

 

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]]>decordinnerwarehand-paintedpaintporcelaintablewaretea setTeaSetErin Loechner2009-10-16T09:00:00+00:00The DIY Reel: Create a Rolling Kitchen Carthttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/15/the-diy-reel-create-a-rolling-kitchen-cart/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/15/the-diy-reel-create-a-rolling-kitchen-cart/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/15/the-diy-reel-create-a-rolling-kitchen-cart/#commentsFiled under: , ,

My husband and I put an offer on a fixer-upper (ahhh, the agony of moving yet again!) this past weekend and if our bid is accepted, it looks like we'll be facing a super intense kitchen makeover. Of course, helpful tips like Kelly's rolling kitchen cart makeover will come in handy when it's time to tackle that kitchen island.

The best part about this easy-to-do tutorial? It uses a basic side table as its main material, and we all know how many side tables are scattered among garage sales and thrift shops. Why not keep your eye open for a side table next time you're out and about? Chances are, you can score one cheap and splurge on a nice countertop material (I'd love white marble or slate!) and caster wheels.

Another option? Cover your side table with stainless steel sheet metal for a sleek, modern look. You'll get a few more scrapes and dents in the island, but hey --- isn't that the definition of character?

 

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]]>casterscountertopislandkitchenrolling cartvideowheelsErin Loechner2009-10-15T15:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Make a Woven Felt Placemathttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/15/daily-diy-make-a-woven-felt-placemat/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/15/daily-diy-make-a-woven-felt-placemat/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/15/daily-diy-make-a-woven-felt-placemat/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

placemats, woven, felt, craft, dinner, setting, place setting

Weave your way through the fall season! Photo: The Purl Bee

Felt screams cooler weather to me, so I can't wait to get my hands on a pair of brightly-colored felt threads and work some magic this fall. For now, I'll be keeping this project from The Purl Bee close by -- I can't wait to try it and have a feeling that even I can't screw this one up!

The following materials will make a set of six 11-inch x 17-inch place mats:

From there, you'll need to cut, weave and finish! The craft couldn't be easier and would make an excellent art project for your family. Why not let your children pick out their own felt colors to give everyone a personalized place setting? Better yet, with holidays coming up fast, consider gifting felt placemats to your favorite families.

Get to work!

 

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]]>craftdinnerfeltplace settingplacematplacematsweaveErin Loechner2009-10-15T09:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: A Silhouette For Your Thoughtshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/14/daily-diy-a-silhouette-for-your-thoughts/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/14/daily-diy-a-silhouette-for-your-thoughts/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/14/daily-diy-a-silhouette-for-your-thoughts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

silhouette, black, wall, diy, frames, photos

Jump for this fall's newest DIY trend: active silhouettes. Photo: Jolie Ruben, Time Out New York

I love the timelessness of silhouettes, yet how the ways in which silhouette projects materialize are so, so versatile. This project from Time Out New York is a fun, quirky example of implementing a seemingly-stuffy concept into a more lighthearted environment.

The steps are easy enough:

You'll need:
o. Old photographs or a camera and printer to make new ones
o. Black construction paper
o. Scissors
o. Tape
o. An assortment of picture frames

Step-by-step:
1 Find a photograph of a loved one in an active pose. Or gather friends and stage new shots specifically for this project. The more dynamic the photo, the better.
2 Cut out the figure from the photograph.
3 Trace the figure onto black construction paper and cut it out.
4 Tape the new silhouette onto white paper and insert into frame.
5 Repeat the process and arrange the frames so that each silhouette seemingly interacts with the adjacent figures.

That's it! Get to it, folks!

 

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]]>framesphotospicturessilhouettewall decorErin Loechner2009-10-14T09:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: AstroTurf It!http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/13/daily-diy-astroturf-it/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/13/daily-diy-astroturf-it/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/13/daily-diy-astroturf-it/#commentsFiled under:

astroturf, couch, green, furniture

Turf in style this season... Photo: Readymade Mag

Summer may be long gone, but I'm still allowed to dream of astroturf, right? Especially after seeing this lovely DIY AstroTurf couch in a recent ReadyMade mag issue. The perfect outdoor seating would look just as smashing on a front porch or sunroom, and I'm half tempted to strike a deal with the husband -- if he helps me build an AstroTurf couch, I'll let him use the leftovers for his very own backyard golf course. Good deal, right?

And you know what? Turns out I don't even need his help to build it! The instructions couldn't be easier:

1. Take removable cushions off of the sofa. Lay AstroTurf down on the sofa and cut into pieces just large enough to cover each area with a slight overlap.
2. Using the staple gun, attach AstroTurf, stretching as you go for a snug fit. You don't need to cover the bottom of the sofa, but try not to leave any gaps where water might seep in.
3. Cover removable cushions separately.

Super fun, right? So excited to try it!

 

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]]>astroturfcouchfurnituregrassgreenErin Loechner2009-10-13T09:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: A Chair Made From Pool Noodles? Yes!http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/12/daily-diy-a-chair-made-from-pool-noodles-yes/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/12/daily-diy-a-chair-made-from-pool-noodles-yes/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/12/daily-diy-a-chair-made-from-pool-noodles-yes/#commentsFiled under: , ,

chair, pool noodles, wood, black, styrofoam

Re-purpose those pool noodles into a sleek, modern chair. Photo: Instructables



It's time to pack up those pool accessories and face the facts -- cooler weather is here to stay, whether we like it or not. Still, you can have a bit of a last hurrah with those old pool noodles you've got scattered around your back patio. Why not transform your average noodle into a fabulously unique chair with this tutorial from Instructables?

One tip from our expert designer? "The chair's joints are cast aluminum, made using the lost styrofoam process. I know most people don't have access to a foundry, and getting custom work cast is expensive. However, the joints could just as easily be made out of wood, hopefully something that provides a nice contrast to the plywood"

In other words, get creative with a few inexpensive and crafty materials to keep the bill low and the work unique. Sometimes having a budget is the best way to ensure you have a one-of-a-kind piece!

Happy crafting!

 

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]]>chairhow-toliving roompool noodlesseatingtutorialErin Loechner2009-10-12T09:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: A Warren Platner on the Cheaphttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/07/daily-diy-a-warren-platner-on-the-cheap/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/07/daily-diy-a-warren-platner-on-the-cheap/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/07/daily-diy-a-warren-platner-on-the-cheap/#commentsFiled under: , ,

garbage can, trash can, side table, chiasso

Add a circle of glass and you have it -- instant designer side table! Photo: Chiasso

Think you need to spend the big bucks for a Platner piece? Think again. In fact, a trash can could do the trick just fine. And yes, I'm being serious. Chiasso has a new garbage can that looks oddly Platner-inspired. Why not cut a circle of glass over the opening and call it what it is --- a designer side table!

Even better? You can get a circle of glass cut for a few bucks at your local glass or framing store, turn the table on its end and for around $30, you have a designer-inspired side table. Try finding that great of a deal at your favorite big box retailer.

Proof that to get an aesthetic of high design, you don't necessarily have to pay a high price tag. In fact, design is in the (sometimes trashy!) details.

 

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]]>chiassodesignerfurnituregarbage canplatnerside tabletrash canErin Loechner2009-10-07T09:00:00+00:00ShelterPop Swap: Build a Colorful Bookshelfhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/06/shelterpop-swap-build-a-colorful-bookshelf/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/06/shelterpop-swap-build-a-colorful-bookshelf/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/06/shelterpop-swap-build-a-colorful-bookshelf/#commentsFiled under: ,

bookshelf, alcove, organize, storage

Organize in style with these DIY colorful bookshelves! Photo: Laura Plouzek

Our friends at ShelterPop are back at it again with excellent DIY-able advice. This week? Learn to make these kid-friendly, colorful bookshelves that you can arrange and re-arrange to your heart's content.

What you'll need:
- A jigsaw or similar saw
- Sandpaper/electric sander
- Wood screws
- Powerdrill and/or screwdriver
- Lumber
- Wood glue
- Paint
- Measuring tape
- Pencil and paper


The Plan:
1. Use your saw to cut your lumber pieces to the length that you need.
2. Use a vice or clamps to hold the pieces together and use wood glue to join the corners of the lumber together. When they are dry, drill wood screws into each corner for reinforcement.
3. Sand down all of your edges.
4. Paint your boxes. Laura used high quality spray paint, but any thick, interior household paint or craft paint for wood will work just find.
5. Stack boxes into alcove and enjoy!

Isn't the look adorable, colorful and unique? I can't wait to try it myself!

 

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]]>bookshelfcolorhome decororganizeshelterpopstorageErin Loechner2009-10-06T15:00:00+00:00The DIY Reel: Turn a Table Runner into a Valancehttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/01/the-diy-reel-turn-a-table-runner-into-a-valance/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/01/the-diy-reel-turn-a-table-runner-into-a-valance/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/01/the-diy-reel-turn-a-table-runner-into-a-valance/#commentsFiled under: ,

With fall around the corner, I'm shopping for more autumn appropriate tableware, specifically table runners. But after seeing this video, it looks like I won't be using my table runner for entertaining...


Smart, right? Don't worry -- if a valance isn't your thing, there are many uses for table runners that don't even involve sewing. A few of my favorites?:

1. Wall Hanging
Hang either vertical or horizontal for an unexpected dash of textiles in an otherwise bare space. The look is beautiful, whether framed or unframed. I'd go with a pattern or embroidery-inspired table runner to make the most of the aesthetic.

2. Gift Basket Lining
The perfect hostess gift always includes something for the table. Why not line your basket with a table runner for a re-usable and inventive way to welcome your neighbor to a new community? Include fresh flowers, fruit and seasonal teas for a wonderful, creative gift that any hostess will love.

Table runners aren't just for the kitchen anymore; get creative and mix things up... you'll be thrilled with the result.

 

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]]>giftgift basketkitchentable runnerTableRunnervalancewall hangingWallHangingErin Loechner2009-10-01T15:00:00+00:00Sophisticated Halloween Decorhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/09/30/sophisticated-halloween-decor/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/30/sophisticated-halloween-decor/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/30/sophisticated-halloween-decor/#commentsFiled under: ,

So. Halloween is inching closer and closer and I'm dreaming of throwing a sophisticated dinner party for the occasion... or at least dressing my home in festivities. Yet I'll admit -- I hate the traditional black and orange "ghoulish" decor. I can't handle skeletons in my home, absolutely despise scarecrows and wouldn't be caught dead (no pun intended) courting the thought of a Frankenstein head as a centerpiece.

So what's a gal like me to do to ring in Halloween? Shall we just skip the occasion and go straight to turkey decorating? Never! I've rounded up a few great ideas that are as easy on the eyes as they are on the budget. And don't worry -- you won't find any dead fingers amidst these looks.

halloween, black, white, pumpkin, fall decor

Black and white and chic all over. Photo: My Little Corner

Gothic Black/White Graphics:
I love the Thomas Paul collection of Gothic melamine plates, and luckily, with a few pumpkins and black candlesticks strategically placed, the look can be quite Halloween-esque, but still perfect year-round. Good deal, right?

Gilding Pumpkins:
Turns out that a can of spray paint takes an orange staple in the Halloween decor industry up one notch to chic, understated glamor. That's right; the pumpkin gets a facelift with gold and silver gilding. This entryway is definitely my kind of autumn decorating, and I can't imagine trick-or-treating with anything else.

Raven Silhouettes:
I know, I know --- I said no tradition Halloween decorations. But the raven, although spooky and understandably ghoulish (you saw Birds, right?!), isn't altogether Halloweeny, right? Because a raven silhouette in a glass casing is a trend I could really get behind...

Autumn Centerpiece:
Although I'm not usually a supporter of the silk flower movement, seasonal decorations sometimes call for faux arrangements. In this case, the bright marigold and daisy palette is both inviting and classic, creating a gorgeous centerpiece worthy of Halloweens across the globe. The orange screams "fall" without screaming bloody murder. My kind of Halloween!

Overall, there are so many ways to infuse your home with seasonal decor --- with or without the witch's broom. Get creative using items around your own home to complete an eclectic, fall-inspired aesthetic that won't break the bank -- or your superstitions.

 

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]]>decordecoratinggothichalloweenholidayseasonalsophisticatedErin Loechner2009-09-30T15:00:00+00:00ShelterPop Swap: 5 Dreamy Headboards You Can Make Yourselfhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/09/29/shelterpop-swap-5-dreamy-headboards-you-can-make-yourself/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/29/shelterpop-swap-5-dreamy-headboards-you-can-make-yourself/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/29/shelterpop-swap-5-dreamy-headboards-you-can-make-yourself/#commentsFiled under:

headboard, bedroom, diy, plywood

Lie down and bask in the beauty. Photo: ShelterPop

We talked headboards last week, and I can't help but shake the fact that I desperately need to spruce my own up a bit. As usual, I'm taking a cue from our fellow friends at ShelterPop. This lovely round-up has me craving a Saturday afternoon with a bit of fabric, plywood and my handy dandy staple gun.

This handy ReadyMade tutorial is one of my favorites, as I'm an avid read-in-bed kinda gal. There's nothing comfortable about stacking a few pillows against a hard, upright headboard, so this design is perfect for me. And with just a few tools, the process couldn't be easier!

Don't see one you like? Blogger pioneer Grace Bonney from Design*Sponge gave us a sneak peek of her own bedroom, including a DIY video of this gorgeous homemade headboard that's fit for a queen. Or, you could check out Curbly's round-up of 10 Fantastically DIY-able headboards.

Happy dreaming!

 

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]]>bedbedroombuilddecorheadboardplywoodshelterpoptoolsErin Loechner2009-09-29T15:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Marker It!http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/28/daily-diy-marker-it/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/28/daily-diy-marker-it/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/28/daily-diy-marker-it/#commentsFiled under: , ,

fabric, markers, yellow, tablecloth, pattern

Fabric markets? Yes, please! Photo: Mer Mag

Personal touches are the new trend this fall, and I'm all for creating a fun spin on normal, everyday products. Naturally, these lovely fabric markers spotted on Mer Mag are right up my alley -- and should be up yours, as well. With a dash of skill, these markers can make anyone an artist.

Merrilee is attempting to create a tablecloth, using her pattern know-how to the best of her abilities. I think the look is marvelous, and the mustard yellow is the perfect accent for any dinner table. I can't wait to see how it looks finished!

Why not attempt to freehand your favorite pattern? Or, if you don't trust your creative instincts, simply trace a patterned silhouette, decal or paper cut onto the fabric. There is so much fun that can be had with just a few markers and a clean slate. Think of the possibilities -- curtains! bedding! blankets, oh my!

To purchase markers like Merrilee's visit Dharma Trading Co. right here.

 

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]]>doodledrawfabricmarkerpatterntableclothErin Loechner2009-09-28T09:00:00+00:0010 Fab DIY Playspaceshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/09/23/10-fabulous-playrooms/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/23/10-fabulous-playrooms/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/23/10-fabulous-playrooms/#commentsFiled under:

Pottery Barn Kids playroom

Photo: Pottery Barn Kids

Friends of mine are (slowly) converting their garage into a playroom for their three kids. I love, love, love the idea of converting an underused space, like a garage or formal dining room, into a playroom.

Just one good reason to do so: corralling toys and books in a room other than your child's bedroom may help your little one settle down easier at night. Also, a playroom can easily be converted into a cool hang-out room for tweens and teens down the road.

Looking to create an inspiring playroom or bedroom play area for your children? Take a look at my slideshow of fabulous and inspiring kids' rooms. Hey, you may not have the budget for the level of fabulous seen in some of these examples (I know I don't) but almost any of the ideas can be reworked in an IKEA price range!

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]]>childrenkidsplayplayroomDiane Rixon2009-09-23T12:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: De-Scuff Your Leather Couchhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/09/23/daily-diy-de-scuff-your-leather-couch/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/23/daily-diy-de-scuff-your-leather-couch/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/23/daily-diy-de-scuff-your-leather-couch/#commentsFiled under: , ,

dog, couch, leather

Fido can relax on the couch as long as he'd like with this handy tip! Photo: Canine Supply Info

Good news and bad news. The good news is your newly-adopted wheaton terrier has officially adjusted to your household and feels right at home. The bad news? Your newly-adopted wheaton terrier is officially adjusted to your household and feels right at home. On your couch. Your newly-adopted leather couch, to be exact. Don't fret. Dig through your kid's backpack to find a quick fix for those unsightly scuffs.

Curious? The eraser of a pencil will cause that scuff mark to virtually disappear right before your eyes! Another reason why back-to-school is sometimes the happiest time on earth.

Bonus? You can also use the eraser of a brand new pencil to clean an LCD monitor or computer monitor, as well! Be sure to rub lightly and use a clean eraser, as graphite marks on the eraser can cause additional scratching to the monitor.

Who knew your new favorite cleaning solvent would rest in your child's classroom?

 

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]]>cleancouchde-scufferaserleatherpencilscuffErin Loechner2009-09-23T09:00:00+00:00ShelterPop Swap: How to Create Your Own Floral Arrangementshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/09/22/shelterpop-swap-how-to-create-your-own-floral-arrangements/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/22/shelterpop-swap-how-to-create-your-own-floral-arrangements/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/22/shelterpop-swap-how-to-create-your-own-floral-arrangements/#commentsFiled under: ,

lemon, arrangement, vase, floral

Lemons in your floral arrangement? Absolutely! Photo: Alys Kenny

I have a friend who is the most talented florist you'd ever see, and I'm continuously awe-struck by the sort of things she gathers and puts together to create an elaborate arrangement. Hopefully I can sneak some of Josie's tips on creating unique floral arrangements into my memory for the next time we get together...

I love the idea of layering vases, and it looks so easy to do! Simply stack smaller vases into larger ones, much like a nesting doll effect. Add lemons (plastic slices are best so as not to harm the flowers!) around the lining of the larger vase to camouflage the interior, and you've got a tight space to fit large flowers, but a large vase to match the scale!

The look is absolutely gorgeous. I love the concept of mixing grocery items into flower arrangements, such as coffee beans, lemons and oranges, so naturally, this is right up my alley!

Read more of Grayson Handy's tips right here at ShelterPop.

 

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]]>arrangementcenterpiecedecorfloralflowerslemonsErin Loechner2009-09-22T15:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Make a Felt Pillow with Rosetteshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/09/21/daily-diy-make-a-felt-pillow-with-rosettes/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/21/daily-diy-make-a-felt-pillow-with-rosettes/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/21/daily-diy-make-a-felt-pillow-with-rosettes/#commentsFiled under: , ,

pillow, felt, rosette, chair, window

Want a fabulous pillow on a dime? Read on! Photo: Chris Everard

Etsy is a great source for handmade goods (but steer clear if you're trying to limit your spending--- whew!), and every now and then I come across a tutorial for a product that is so perfect I can't believe it's handmade. Such is the case with Etsy seller Michelle (mtraub) and her felt rosette pillows. Luckily, she shows us how to create our own rosettes with this easy tutorial!

The materials are simple enough:
  • felt fabric
  • feather pillow insert
  • zipper
  • sewing kit
  • sewing machine
My favorite part about her tutorial is the fact that the rosette can carry over into any craft you'd like, whether it be a hat, cardigan, tablecloth or even a paper product. I'd love to use a few rosettes in a table setting, perhaps as a napkin ring or a sweet decoration to brighten up the mood.

Whatever craft you decide to make, your rosette will surely be the talk of the town! Enjoy!

 

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]]>craftfabricfeltpillowrosettesewingsewing machineErin Loechner2009-09-21T09:00:00+00:00