Wallpaper Sample Wall Art~

It's Thanksgiving week...so I'm giving you, my readers, a couple of  fun reasons to be thankful: Two giveaways in Two days.  Today's giveaway (offered by Elmer's)  is at the end of this post...and tomorrow I have a sponsor giveaway to share. Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm constantly on the look out for ways to beautify the home without breaking the bank.  And that is definitely true when it comes to wall art.  The key is, however, to make it look like you spent some money.  Caviar decorating on a tuna fish budget, I like to call it.

So when it comes to wall art, creativity is key.  And that's where wallpaper comes in...wallpaper samples to be precise.  Here's what I did with some free Anthropologie wallpaper samples, a frame that I already had, and some crafting products provided to me by Elmer's Glue.

First I found a combination of papers that was pleasing to my eye.  (I was going for a simple, uncluttered look, so I chose to use just four samples, but you could get creative and use many more- in all different sizes.)

Then I used my X-ACTO knife to cut the backing paper to size. After finding an arrangement that I liked, I used the Elmer's Tacky Glue to adhere them to a foam board backing, and popped it into the frame.  Seriously easy.

The thing I like about this project (besides its simplicity) is that the end result doesn't look like it was crafted.  It looks like it was purchased. It is interesting to look at, and it's one of a kind - so I won't see the same art in my neighbor's house.

Elmer's has created a fun 101 Uses for Inspired Users Guide that has tons of great - and very creative- ideas for things you can create with their products.  There's even a great advent calendar idea that I think I'm going to try for the holidays.  And today, Elmer's is giving away a craft pack to each of two lucky readers of The Shabby Nest.  These would be a great jumping off point to create some amazing holiday gifts or decor.

The packs include:

·         Foam Board

·         Foam Tri-Fold Display Board

·         Mini Bi-Fold Foam Board

·         CraftBond Extra Strength Glue Stick

·         X-ACTO Gripster Knife

·         CraftBond Tacky Glue

If you'd like a chance to win one of these craft packs, just leave a comment on this post. Easy-Peasy.  Happy Thanksgiving!!

For more crafting fun, you can learn more about what Elmer's has to offer at Elmers.com, and you can also find Elmer's on Twitter and Facebook. 

Disclosure: Elmer's provided me with the supplies I used to create this art.  The  opinions expressed were entirely my own. 

Cottonelle: Respect the Roll~

Thank you to Cottonelle for encouraging me to Respect The Roll by sending me these awesome roll covers and Cottonelle Clean Care product and sponsoring my creativity. You can enter to win roll covers yourself by visiting Cottonelle's Facebook page!


I don't know about you, but I have struggled with the dilemma of how to have extra rolls of toilet paper handy for my guests (and myself, for that matter) without having to display them for the world to see.  Because, lets face it, important thought it is, toilet paper is not exactly designer friendly.

Until now, that is.  The good people at Cottonelle have come up with an idea.  They call it "Respect the Roll".  I call it "smart". 

Check out these cute roll covers that they have created.  They raise the lowly toilet paper roll from merely mundane to the almost artistic.  Seriously, what a great way to keep those rolls out in the open. 

They look great just sitting atop the commode. You can leave them alone, or have a little bit of fun and stack them like I have here.

But why stop there?  Check out this fun little display in my guest powder room.  I just grabbed a plate stand from the kitchen (I love using items in unexpected places...rethink the obvious, I always say.) I love how the colors play off my dark gray walls...it adds a little bit of punch!

And, of course, the containers are great for other storage uses as well.  Check out this little cutie coralling our hair goo and such.  What a great idea, huh?

Or you could use them in other rooms in the house to store art supplies, goodies, all kinds of things.   With the great contemporary designs and color combinations they would adapt easily to just about any room in the house. 

But for now, I think I'll use them for their intended purpose - three bathrooms in this house - three cutie pie roll holders.  Just popped a roll of Cottonelle Clean Care toilet paper in each, and now we're ready just in case someone needs 'em.

Thank you again to Cottonelle for sponsoring this blog post. Please click here to learn more about Respecting The Roll. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Apartment Guide: DIY Renter Repairs and Tips & A Giveaway~

Happy Monday everyone!

The Giveaway is Now Closed.

Remember a week or so ago when I mentioned that I was involved in Apartment Guide's DIY Renter Repairs and Tips Bloggers Challenge?  Well, today I have a few great tips for you on how to make a rental into a home - and a giveaway from Apartment Guide as well!

I have been on both ends of the spectrum.  I have been a renter and I have been a home owner.  Currently, we are renting the home we live in.  And although home ownership allows you certain freedoms to make changes that renting doesn't allow, my belief is that it is important to make ANY PLACE that you live into a comfortable home.  After all, your home is your haven, your escape from the world, and it should be an inviting to place to come home to, it should be a retreat!

That said, here a few easy, cost-effective tips for making a rental home your own - all of which are reversible when the time comes for you to move out.

(My little disclaimer:  please stay within the confines of your rental contract.  Make sure that anything you do will not get you in trouble with your landlord.)

1. Paint.  Okay, I can hear a collective groan.  I realize that not all rental contracts allow for painting and I'll give you some alternatives in a minute.  But if your contract allows it - and don't be afraid to ask, the worst they can do is say "no" - painting is a super quick and easy way to make a space your own.

2. Gift Wrap Your Walls.  No, I don't mean putting up wallpaper.  But if you have a fairly small wall space to cover, using a staple gun to attach gift wrap or even fabric to a wall can go a long way toward personalizing a space.  You can read about how I did this here.

3. Use adhesive vinyl.  In my last rental house, I wanted a chalkboard wall in the worst way...but we weren't allowed to paint.  So I purchased a few rolls of adhesive vinyl chalkboard and put it up on the wall.  I got my chalkboard and when we moved, it came off clean as a whistle.

4. Personalize your Lighting.  One way to accomplish this is to change out the light fixtures.  This is only as expensive as purchasing the light fixture you want - and possibly hiring an electrician to do the job if you don't know how (I don't want anyone electrocuting themselves).   And you can replace the old light fixtures when you move.

Another way to do this is to add wall sconces.  They don't require hard wiring but can add loads of personality.  And I just want you to know that I am well aware that the cords look TERRIBLE in the photo I am showing you from the Princess' new bedroom...but we are repainting the entire room, so I haven't put up the cord casings yet - and they will be against a white wall anyway which will minimize the look.  Just sayin'.

5. Add Curtains.  This might seem like a no brainer to some of you.  But, I also know that a lot of people hesitate to put tons of effort into decorating a place that is not "theirs".  Let me just say that the fact that you don't own a place, doesn't mean that it's not "yours".  You live there.  Having a  place that is pleasant and attractive to live is an investment in yourself. 

So check out this before and after.  Here is my dining room without curtains.   It's a pretty room (and undecorated and messy, sorry).  But it lacks the feeling of being finished.

Here it is with the addition of curtains.  WOW! What a difference.  It's still not technically finished being decorated, but those curtains go a long way toward making it feel like "home".  Not to mention the fact that they offer some needed - albeit faux - architectural interest.

So, my dear readers, whether you rent or own is not the point.  It's the thought and effort that you put into making a space your own that really matters.  I hope that these tips help to get you thinking about the different ways that you can make any space that you live in your own.

Now today, Apartment Guide is offering one reader of The Shabby Nest  a $50 gift card to Home Depot or Target (winner's choice!) to help you get started making your space your own.  There are a few ways you can enter for a chance to win...

1. Follow Apartment Guide on Twitter then come back and leave me a comment.
2. Like Apartment Guide on Facebook then come back and leave me a comment.
3. Mention this giveaway on your blog, twitter, or facebook... please leave a separate comment for each thing you do.

And thank you to  Apartment Guide for inviting me to take part in this Blogger's Challenge. Whether you’re living, looking or moving, Apartment Guide will help point you in the right direction. Apartment Guide has tips on how to update and make repairs at home whether you are in a large or small space. It’s helpful information no matter where you live.

Apartment Guide is owned by Consumer Source, Inc. Apartment Guide partnered with bloggers such as me to participate in its “DIY Renter Repairs and Tips” Blogger Challenge.  As part of that program, I received compensation.  They did not tell me what to purchase or what to say about the products used for the “DIY Renter Repairs and Tips” Blogger Challenge. Apartment Guide and Consumer Source believe that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. Consumer Source’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations.

Apartment Guide's DIY Renter Repairs & Tips Bloggers Challenge~

I am excited to have been asked to participate in Apartment Guide's DIY Renter Repairs & Tips Bloggers Challenge.

If you didn't already know, the Hubby and I are actually renting the home that we live in.  I have always been of the opinion that it doesn't matter whether you rent or own, making your home "your own" is important.  When we lived in Massachusetts, we owned our home, and yes, that does come with DIY opportunities that renting doesn't.  That said, however, there are many easy (and reversible) ways that you can personalize a rental.

So when Apartment Guide contacted me and asked if I'd like to participate in their DIY Renter Repairs & Tips Bloggers Challenge, my answer was a resounding "YES!"  I'd love nothing more than to empower my readers who rent with the desire to make their spaces their own.  (And the same holds true for homeowners - the tips work equally well either way.)

Remember this space that I shared a couple of weeks back?  This is my undecorated (and messy - my apologies) dining room.  I'm going to share a very simple update with you that will change this space dramatically. 

Look for that, and some other easy-to-achieve ideas that will help you update your home without a lot of time, stress or money - as well as a fun giveaway to help you along the way- all coming up in my DIY Renter Repairs & Tips Bloggers Challenge post next week!

Just like me, Apartment Guide wants to empower people to make their spaces their own.  Apartment Guide has tips on how to update and make repairs at home whether you are in a large or small space. It’s helpful information no matter where you live.    Ready to use your toolkit but not sure where to start? Apartment Guide also has helpful DIY repair and home maintenance tips for any room in your place: http://www.movingtoday.com/top-organizing-tips-for-any-room/

You can also find them on Facebook at   Facebook.com/ApartmentGuide or on Twitter at Twitter.com/AptGuide

I'm off to tackle those projects!! 

Apartment Guide is owned by Consumer Source, Inc. Apartment Guide partnered with bloggers such as me to participate in its “DIY Renter Repairs and Tips” Blogger Challenge.  As part of that program, I received compensation.  They did not tell me what to purchase or what to say about the products used for the “DIY Renter Repairs and Tips” Blogger Challenge. Apartment Guide and Consumer Source believe that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. Consumer Source’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations.

Simple and Pretty Floral Arrangement~

Happy Monday Everybody!

It was a crazy busy weekend around these parts!  With lots of celebrating all surrounding the number 50...on Friday we celebrated my parents' 50th Wedding Anniversary with a lovely dinner party, and on Saturday we attended a surprise 50th birthday party for my cute sister-in-law! 

My two sweet sisters and I planned the  50th Celebration for my parents.  It was lovely.  I was in charge of the main table centerpiece.  We had chosen cream table linens, and I had originally planned on going with yellow flowers to bring in the "gold" for the golden anniversary.  But, in all honesty, once I was looking at flowers, everything that was available was too sunshine-y yellow, and they just didn't seem elegant enough for the occasion.  So I chose white. 

And the arrangements I created (photographed at my house rather than the venue - hence no table linens) were simple but elegant. 

To add interest to the smaller of the two arrangements, I simply cut up a few limes and filled the vase with them before adding the flowers - they also work well as sort of natural floral "frog" to hold the flowers in place.  The green of the limes echoed the greenery in the flowers and the entire arrangement was simply elegant.

The same idea works great with more casual floral arrangements.  Picture lemons and daffodils or daisies in a mason jar.  So next time you need a unique floral arrangement think citrus!

Have a great day~

A Plan for the Boys' Room~

Found myself at Ikea yesterday, and gained some great inspiration for my boys' bedroom.  So I came home and pulled together an inspiration board with a few of the items I saw there (and others I've been saving in my files).

Thought you all might want to take a peek.

I have had my eye on the duvet set at Ikea for quite a while...and it's very reasonable...just $29.99 for a twin duvet and pillow case.  Lovin' the blue and white stripes.  Then I saw the pretty cable knit blanket and thought it added another nice nautical touch to the bedding ensemble at $39.99.   The other Ikea find?  That great nautical ceiling pendant.  Perfect at $29.99.

The rest of the inspiration photos pictured?  You'll just have to stay tuned to find out!

Other Sources:
Bunkbeds via Coastal Living
Driftwood Sailboat via Lettered Cottage
Alphabet Wall via Houzz
Windmill via ? (in my files for ages)

Frugal Friday goes live tonight at  8:00 MST as usual.  Have a great day~

Luau Inspiration~

I got an email from one of my readers the other day asking if I had any ideas for a Luau.  And the answer is "no, not really".  But wait!  Don't get me wrong, I love me a good luau.  But I haven't exactly thrown a luau-type party  myself.  Since I'm not one to miss out on a little good party inspiration, however, I did a little research, and I found some fun luau ideas.  So Kathy, this one's for you...

This is such a great idea for a simple and lovely centerpiece. And nothing says "Hawaii" like a pineapple!

 via pinterest

I thought these cookie palm trees were so clever!!

 via pinterest

This table setting is just lovely.  The color scheme is tropical without being tacky and the paper lanterns are a pretty touch.

 via pinterest

You'll sense a theme going in these photos...I really love the use of parasols for a luau...be they miniature, or full size like this pretty pink number.  (I'm also lovin' that ukulele.)

 via sara's party perfect

This wreath is so fun and whimsical, you can help but smile!

 via Sara's Party Perfect

Or add a pretty, pastel parasol to a cupcake.  Love.

via TomKat Studios 

This jellyfish is made from grocery bags (yes, really!)  I featured it one week for my Frugal Round-up because I thought it was simply adorable!  Don't you think it would be a fun addition to a luau?  Sure would keep the kids entertained anyway.

via Casa Haus 

Doesn't it make you wanna just go throw yourself a smashin' luau?!  I'll be anxiously waiting by the  mailbox for my invite. ;-)

Have a great day~



Backyard Plans~

The weather around these parts of late has been, how shall I say it? Well, weird.  Down right cold, actually.  Definitely not normal for this time of year.  On Memorial Day we actually woke up to snow on the ground.  We've had the most snow in 150 years.   That said, I'm really sick of  the cold.  And the snow.  And I'm ready for a little sunshine. 

I think Mother Nature might have heard me complaining because it finally seems to be warming up outside (knock on wood.)  The past two days have been blissful.  Near 80 with a soft breeze.  Mmmmmmm.

So I have been dreaming about having a romantic little spot in the backyard this summer.  One where I can relax and read a book...or just gaze at the sky and try to find shapes in the clouds.  Something kind of like this...



Source?

 Of course, our new house doesn't have a bunch of beautiful old-growth trees in the backyard, so perhaps this particular set-up isn't exactly feasible.

Actually, I have really been wanting a hammock.  And daydreaming about something like this.

source

Its price tag might be a bit rich for my blood, however.

So maybe I'll go with something a little more like this.



source


It could be really fun with a nice big umbrella to provide some shade, and a bunch of pretty outdoor pillows like these.



source


Oh yeah!  Bring it on, Summer!  I'm ready for ya!!

Simple Outdoor Mood Lighting~

It's been rather dreary here for the past few days.  Rainy and cold.  But I have big plans for outdoor entertaining this year...if the weather should ever warm up. ;-)

I thought it would be fun to share with you one of my go-to, outdoor, summer centerpieces.  It's extremely simple to make, but it adds tons of ambience to any gathering.  Canning Jar Lanterns.

To make these pretty lanterns, simply gather up some vintage canning jars.  I like a variety of sizes...it just adds to the impact.  Then get some candles...I use larger pillar candles for the big canning jars and votives for the smaller jars.  You can use any color candle you want, but I prefer to use white.  Clean.  Pretty.

Fill the bottom of your jars about 1/4 - 1/3 full of rice...or sand...or coarse salt.  It's really up to you.  I used rice in these because I had it on hand.  Sand is especially pretty, and coarse salt is lovely because it reflects the light.  But really any of these pale colored fillers will do. 

Then just pop the candles in and light.  Group your canning jars for more dramatic impact.  So simple and pretty.  (Please make sure you don't leave candles unattended or let them burn all the way down to the filler...as that could be a fire hazard.)

Happy Entertaining!

Oh...and  last but certainly not least,  I hope you love my new blog design as much as I do!  Thanks to Ellie G at Announced Greetings for her spectacular redesign!!  Love.  Love.  Love.

Bunk Rooms: Shared Space Inspiration~

As I mentioned in this post, we are moving.  And in the move, we are going to be downsizing.  So all of my boys are going to be sharing a room.  I have been wanting to build a bunkroom for ages...and this gives me the perfect excuse opportunity.

So today I want to share a few bunk room ideas from my inspiration files...

I love the nautical theme in this bedroom and the  "porthole" window near the lower bunk.

traditional kids design by chicago general contractor Stonebreaker Builders & Remodelers

I love the built-in beds, the drawers underneath for added storage...the "wainscotting" molding on the sides of the beds.  Perfection.

traditional bedroom design by boston architect Smith & Vansant Architects PC

In this room, I'm in love with the sconce above the top bunk and the planked walls. mmmmm.

contemporary kids design by atlanta interior designer Brian Watford ID

Although not technically "bunks", I love the built-in cubbies for each bed...and the curtains for privacy.

eclectic kids design by birmingham interior designer Tracery Interiors

This room has amazing use of space...love the built-in bookcases and workstations on each side of the bed ( although that top bunk needs a higher safety railing, if you ask me.)

traditional kids design

This room had me at "hello". I love the putty colored built-ins. The stairs/ladder is pure perfection. And I simply adore the addition of the built-in bookcases at the head of each bed.

spaces design

I have been enamoured of this bunk space for a long time. I love the juxtaposition of industrial elements with feminine elements (and that oversized photo is amazing!) Of course, remove the butterflies and the twinkle light "chandelier" and this space could work just as well for a group of crazy boys like mine.

spaces design

All rooms above via Houzz.com

This is perhaps my favorite bunk room image of all time. It's from BHG, and I've had it in my inspiration photos since, well, I've lost track of how long it's been there. I love EVERYTHING about this room. The bunks are amazing, the built-in workstations are inspired, the colors are perfect.  Now to figure out how something like this can translate to a smaller space. Ohhhhh the possibilities.

via BHG



Sure does give me a lot to think about.  Whether you have kiddos or not, I hope that you've been able to gather a little inspiration from this set of shared spaces too!

Have a great day~

Faux Mercury Glass tutorial and a Last Minute Neighbor Gift Idea~

For my Christmas Mantel I decided to try my hand at making some faux mercury glass. Now, let me preface this by saying that there are many tutorials on the old www that can tell you how to do this. This is just my version, which as usual, is the lazy person's version. But it was super (and I stress SUPER) easy!

What you will need:

1. Glass containers of any configuration. (I went and bought a bunch of candle/votive holders at the dollar store.)

2. A water spraybottle (filled with actual water...shocking, I know.)

3. Silver metallic spraypaint. (I have also read that using mirror spraypaint works well...and in reality I think it would probably be better...I just happened to have some silver spraypaint on hand...and that's how I roll...)

Instructions:

1. I decided to spraypaint both the inside and outsides of my containers, so I didn't need to prep them any special way. If you want to use them as candle h0lders, I would suggest taping off the inside of the jars so you won't get any paint inside. Heat + Paint = Trouble.

2. Spritz both the outside and inside of each jar with water. I set my spraybottle on mist so that the water droplets are small in size. (This is what creates the aged look.) Some of the water will pool on the inside of the jar. Don't worry about this.

3. Immediately spray the inside and outside of each wet jar with your metallic (or mirror) spraypaint. Go over each with two to three light coats of paint. Remember mercury glass is supposed to look aged and imperfect, so you aren't going for complete coverage here.

4. Let the jars dry completely. As the water dries it will leave droplet marks and streaks which add to the mercury glass illusion.

ENJOY!

For a super easy neighbor gift, take your faux mercury glass vessel and add a bag full of goodies to the inside. Super easy and festive!

Oh, and on a last note...due to the fact that both Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve fall on Fridays this year, there will be no Frugal Friday linky parties for the next two weeks. I'm pretty sure you all will be too busy to miss it. ;-) But never fear all you frugalistas, Frugal Friday will resume as usual the second week of 2011.

Have a great day~

Holiday Inspiration~

I decorate for Christmas on the day after Thanksgiving. I just like to give Thanksgiving its due. A lot of times I feel like it is the forgotten holiday. Wedged in there between Halloween and Christmas...the prelude to Black Friday. And, honestly, Thanksgiving is one of my very favorite holidays. So I wait until the next day to pull out my Christmas decor. (No offense to anyone that likes to decorate pre-Thanksgiving...I KNOW it's hard to wait.)

But, all of that said, I start thinking about and preparing my Christmas decor long before that. (Like right after Halloween.) And this year I've decided to go with mostly whites and silvers. I have a lovely neutral palette running through my head.

....And then my copy of Country Living arrived. And I saw these photos....

And I swooned. I just love them. all. Interesting how this pale-on-pale Christmas color scheme seems to be popping up all over the place this year. I guess great minds think alike, huh?

And today I am especially thankful for a warm house to live in as a blizzard rages outside and the temperatures plummet to the low teens. I know how blessed we are. How very blessed.

Have a great day~