Hello, dear friends. I hope that you enjoyed your week. I was fortunate enough to spend some time in beautiful Madison, Connecticut visiting with a couple of friends. I will tell you all about it in the next couple of weeks. In January, I wrote a post about doing a little updating on our master bedroom. Well, it's finally finished. This is what the room looked like when we toured the house. The owners enlarged the room by taking down a wall between the MBR and a small bedroom. This was the bedding that I had made in Texas a few months before moving to Massachusetts. When I first laid eyes on the stove I got a little nervous about the heating in the room. I needn't have worried because the radiators do a bang-up job keeping the room toasty. I don't use the words bang-up lightly. The radiators create a symphony of knocking, banging, and whistling sounds all night long. The Mister and I barely hear it anymore. Or maybe we are just losing our hearing. In any case, this is part of the charm of owning a hundred-year-old house. I knew that I wanted to keep the wall color and the furnishings. My main goal was to brighten up the room. I fell in love with the combination of the Wedgewood blue and celery green. Voila! I found these botanical prints and frames on Amazon. They are much prettier in real life. I always like to have my bedskirt puddle to allow the dust bunnies some privacy. If you are looking for some Sheets on the cheap, I found some on Amazon that I love. They are nice and big, they don't shrink and they have deep pockets. They are also so soft and comfy. Btw... I do my best work while having the Real Housewives on in the background. Sidenote: who likes Kelly's new beau? Goodbye old stove, hello fireplace! Thanks for stopping by. Have a great weekend. It's time for me to get back to the Housewives! Until next time... Linked up with: Friday Favorites Friday at the Firehouse Friday Favorites Best of the Weekend High Five For Friday Home Matters Saturday Sparks Pink Saturday Dare To Share Finding Silver Pennies Love Your Creativity Keeping It Simple Over the Moon Metamorphosis Monday
It's tough to stay fit and healthy during the holidays! A personal trainer gives us her take on fitness over fifty, healthier holidays, and more.
The Empty Nester is an award-winning tiny house from Kamtz Tiny Home Company. The 36′ tiny house won Best in Show at the 2017 Colorado Tiny House Festival.
Did you have a good weekend? Ours was fairly busy. We woke up to rain on Sunday, which made me jump for joy. I met my old tennis buddy, Madonna, for lunch. Who says you can't go home again? We picked up right where we left off nine years ago. She is such a character and never fails to make me laugh. On Saturday, we headed to Dallas to check out #1 and Adorable Jonathon's sweet love nest. We took them out to lunch at R&D Kitchen, a favorite of my #1's. Our absent member, #2, was vacationing with the rich and famous in Palm Springs. I couldn't be happier that my family is settled in one state. Today, I am beginning a new series. While on sabbatical this Summer, I spent some time posting my favorite design photos on Instagram. Before I knew it, I was addicted. I used to spend hours on Pinterest drooling over design photos. Now, Instagram has stolen my heart. When I decided to begin this series, there was no question in my mind about who would be my first Designer of the Day. The one and only Edith-Anne Duncan I have been following Edith-Anne for a few years. Whenever she posts a photo of a new project, I think there is no way she could top her last project, but she does. I even have the Mister following Edith-Anne. When she posts a new photo, the Mister says... your girlfriend just posted another pretty photo. And I know exactly who he is talking about. Who cares if she's only my imaginary friend? Edith-Anne, who lives in Virginia, describes her home as a laboratory where she can experiment. Here are some photos of her breathtaking home. You can see lots more on the EAD website and Instagram. Be still my heart...these magnificent doors! Edith-Anne describes her style as sophisticated/casual. I love how EAD uses such bold colors and mixes patterns. I'm a sucker for a hidden door. Fun Fact: did you know that they are called jib doors? Wowza... a place to store her silver. And I'm sure it is a tarnish-free zone. I never met a check that I didn't like! Can you believe that this is her home office? What a gorgeous room. For the rest of the house, check out the EAD website. The master bedroom and kitchen are to die for! Here is a glance at some of Edith-Anne's projects. One of Edith-Anne's signature touches includes ceilings with personality. This photo was on the cover of Southern Home magazine. An added bonus: Every once in a while, Edith Anne asks her followers to leave questions for her on her Instagram feed. She then has a Coffee and Chat video and answers all the questions. Another bonus: EAD has the cutest clothes. One more thing... Every month Edith-Anne posts a "must-have," which is always a great idea. I found a talented artist through her. Thanks for joining me today. Check out Edith-Anne's Instagram and website. Tell her that her BFF, Katie sent you. EAD's furbabies give a whole new meaning to the term "lucky dog." Linking up with: I do DeClaire Inspire Me Tuesday The Happy Now Blog Lou Lou Girls
Hello, dear friends. I hope that you had a good week. Today I'm headed to the big city to do some shopping and have lunch with the Mister. I've been homebound and haven't worn makeup all week. I hope that I remember how to put it on. If not, I will just consult my favorite makeup artist. Both beautiful homes today are in the beautiful state of Connecticut where I was born and raised. They may not claim me, but it's true. To see more of this gorgeous waterfront home, click here. ***** This is Phoebe Cole-Smith who owns this heavenly home which also has a working farm. How come I don't look this cute when I garden? Love this kitchen! For more photos of this charming home click here. You can find 28 decorating secrets from the pros right here. You just have to promise not to tell anybody! ***** I am in the market for some new bedding for our master bedroom. Needless to say, I have been spending waaay too much time on Pinterest. I came across this article that has great ideas for a sophisticated bedroom. Yup, that's me... sophisticated. Has anyone tried the new dessert hummus? Thanks to Shark Tank, it just hit the shelves. I'm not sure that I can trust a dessert that is actually good for me. ***** Do you need some new ideas to serve while you watch the Patriots Superbowl? Here is a motherlode. ***** I mentioned recently that I have developed a taste for tea. This article has good news for all my fellow tea drinkers. Sorry about this pic of me. I was really bloated that day. Do you have a sleep disorder? Someone in my family does, and his name rhymes with twister. I'm worried that he's going to blow the shingles off our roof with his snoring. Here are some other sleep disorders and what the experts say about them. ***** Speaking of sleeping... do you wake up in the middle of the night at the same time every night? The good news is you are totally normal the bad news is your mind and body may be trying to tell you something. Don't worry, I'm not going to leave you hanging. You can find out here. ***** Good news for people like me who are sick of their 2018 stupid diet or healthy lifestyle. Note to self: buy a new scale. ***** If you're sniffling and achy and not sure if you have a cold or the frightful flu, check out this page. ***** If you have read my blog for awhile, you know that I am a big fan of audiobooks. A reader with an irritating voice can ruin a book for me. Here is a very interesting video explaining the process of reading an audiobook. If they let me read it at home in my PJs, I would audition. ***** Guess what's coming back? Good thing because I still have a drawer full of mine. I just wish someone would have told me they went out. ***** The best revenge is living well. Ann Curry is coming back with a show on PBS which highlights reunions called We'll Meet Again. I bet there is someone that she never cares to see again. Btw Matt... Ann has her own production company too. ***** This story appeared on CBS Sunday Morning last week. It brought a tear to my eye and a smile to my lips. Until next time... Petwave
Learn 6 practical (yet stylish) ideas to design a low maintenance high style home with your empty nester years in mind. For nationwide product supply call 877-668-5888, for closet and pantry shelving in Columbus Innovate Home Org at 614-565-5888 or for a bathroom remodel in Cleveland call The Bath Doctor at 216-658-1270.
This delightful one-story cottage presents the ideal layout for empty-nesters or for those approaching an empty nest. A split-bedroom layout that places the master suite and secondary bedrooms on opposite sides of the plan gives privacy and separation to older children and guests. The home plan also features a large dining room next to the kitchen. You'll make plenty of use of this roomy space with its high, light-spilling dormer. If you are thinking about working from home the office next to the foyer will be indispensable as well as tax deductible. The double doors and built-ins impart a sense of style. The airy great room provides two entertaining options: furniture can be arranged around the fireplace at the back of the room or around optional media built-ins at the front of the room. Like the dining room, the bright breakfast nook is large and it connects to an outdoor patio; a tempting place to have an early morning breakfast. The master suite will remind you of the reason you've been saving your pennies all these years. Its rewards include a bump-out space in the bedroom for seating, a soothing spa tub, a spacious shower, and a large walk-in closet. Above the garage, you'll find a bonus room, as well as a big storage closet. Related Plan: For an alternate exterior, see house plan 69006AM.
Hello, dear friends. I hope that you enjoyed your week. I was fortunate enough to spend some time in beautiful Madison, Connecticut visiting with a couple of friends. I will tell you all about it in the next couple of weeks. In January, I wrote a post about doing a little updating on our master bedroom. Well, it's finally finished. This is what the room looked like when we toured the house. The owners enlarged the room by taking down a wall between the MBR and a small bedroom. This was the bedding that I had made in Texas a few months before moving to Massachusetts. When I first laid eyes on the stove I got a little nervous about the heating in the room. I needn't have worried because the radiators do a bang-up job keeping the room toasty. I don't use the words bang-up lightly. The radiators create a symphony of knocking, banging, and whistling sounds all night long. The Mister and I barely hear it anymore. Or maybe we are just losing our hearing. In any case, this is part of the charm of owning a hundred-year-old house. I knew that I wanted to keep the wall color and the furnishings. My main goal was to brighten up the room. I fell in love with the combination of the Wedgewood blue and celery green. Voila! I found these botanical prints and frames on Amazon. They are much prettier in real life. I always like to have my bedskirt puddle to allow the dust bunnies some privacy. If you are looking for some Sheets on the cheap, I found some on Amazon that I love. They are nice and big, they don't shrink and they have deep pockets. They are also so soft and comfy. Btw... I do my best work while having the Real Housewives on in the background. Sidenote: who likes Kelly's new beau? Goodbye old stove, hello fireplace! Thanks for stopping by. Have a great weekend. It's time for me to get back to the Housewives! Until next time... Linked up with: Friday Favorites Friday at the Firehouse Friday Favorites Best of the Weekend High Five For Friday Home Matters Saturday Sparks Pink Saturday Dare To Share Finding Silver Pennies Love Your Creativity Keeping It Simple Over the Moon Metamorphosis Monday
Hello, dear friends. I hope that you enjoyed your week. I was fortunate enough to spend some time in beautiful Madison, Connecticut visiting with a couple of friends. I will tell you all about it in the next couple of weeks. In January, I wrote a post about doing a little updating on our master bedroom. Well, it's finally finished. This is what the room looked like when we toured the house. The owners enlarged the room by taking down a wall between the MBR and a small bedroom. This was the bedding that I had made in Texas a few months before moving to Massachusetts. When I first laid eyes on the stove I got a little nervous about the heating in the room. I needn't have worried because the radiators do a bang-up job keeping the room toasty. I don't use the words bang-up lightly. The radiators create a symphony of knocking, banging, and whistling sounds all night long. The Mister and I barely hear it anymore. Or maybe we are just losing our hearing. In any case, this is part of the charm of owning a hundred-year-old house. I knew that I wanted to keep the wall color and the furnishings. My main goal was to brighten up the room. I fell in love with the combination of the Wedgewood blue and celery green. Voila! I found these botanical prints and frames on Amazon. They are much prettier in real life. I always like to have my bedskirt puddle to allow the dust bunnies some privacy. If you are looking for some Sheets on the cheap, I found some on Amazon that I love. They are nice and big, they don't shrink and they have deep pockets. They are also so soft and comfy. Btw... I do my best work while having the Real Housewives on in the background. Sidenote: who likes Kelly's new beau? Goodbye old stove, hello fireplace! Thanks for stopping by. Have a great weekend. It's time for me to get back to the Housewives! Until next time... Linked up with: Friday Favorites Friday at the Firehouse Friday Favorites Best of the Weekend High Five For Friday Home Matters Saturday Sparks Pink Saturday Dare To Share Finding Silver Pennies Love Your Creativity Keeping It Simple Over the Moon Metamorphosis Monday
7 ways to age and distress furniture pieces. See the different methods and determine which one is right for you!
A two-tone finish beguiles the senses in this antiqued, library bookcase. The exterior is finished in hand-rubbed black while interior shelves with unique iron supports reveal the natural beauty of reclaimed pine. For use with or without available library ladder, for decorative use only. 39.25" W x 17.5" D x 102.25" H Made of Reclaimed Pine & Iron Antique Matte Black Exterior 172 lbs SCENARIO PRICE PROMISE If you find this item for less within 30 days, we'll refund you the difference PLEASE SELECT CAREFULLY This custom or oversized item is non-returnable FREE CURBSIDE DELIVERY Upgraded White Glove Service Available. Please Inquire for a quote.
28" wide x 26 3/4" high. Round canopy is 5 1/2" wide. Weighs 17 lbs. Comes with 72" of chain and wire. Trim to the desired hang height. Sloped ceiling adaptable. Uses five maximum 60 watt or equivalent candelabra bulbs (not included). Traditional scroll 5-light chandelier. From the Kichler Lighting brand. Antique white finish frame and canopy. Metal construction. The distressed frame of this antique white five-light chandelier adds vintage charm to any room. Additional Info: This traditional metal five-light chandelier is crafted from steel in a classic, decorative scroll design. The frame and arms are finished in a distressed antique white that enhances its antique look. Adjust the hang height to suit your space with the included length of matching chain. A wonderful addition to your home from Kichler Lighting. Shop all Kichler
Hello friends..happy to have you visit once again. How was your weekend? Mr. Secret Agent had the holiday off, so he was very busy doing lot's of yard work. Don't feel bad...he thrives outside on his John Deere. I on the other hand spent it painting. I am so excited to show you what I have been working on this weekend. You know those people who fall in love with inanimate objects..like the Eiffel Tower and the Brooklyn Bridge Really...I believe a girl even married herself to the Eiffel Tower! Sick..right? Well I have joined their club... About a month ago, I spotted this maple china cabinet at my local Warrenton Salvation Macy's. it got my attention, but I didn't buy it. Each time I returned and it was still sitting there, I was more intrigued. The price was great and it was a solid piece of wood furniture. Were people not able to see past the slightly outdatedness of it?? Couldn't anyone see it's possibilities???? Well I was going to show them what they were missing out on. I bought that lonely china cabinet and they even delivered it right to my doorstep! Are you ready to see what a little imagination and some Annie Sloan chalk paint can do? I had just received my new chalk paint colors and thought this would be a good piece to try out the Coco. Beautiful color...warm and rich. I knew I wanted to paint the interior a different color and had a bit of a dilema as to which one to choose. I decided on Cream, which is really a buttery pale yellow. Cream is a gorgeous subtle color. However... It was not winning me over here. Coco and Cream are beautiful separately, but together, they washed each other out. On to Plan B I went on Annie's Facebook page and asked her for help. Now this is what I love about this lady....she answered me with her opinions. Annie suggested to pair the Coco with either Emperor's Silk, a drop dead gorgeous red, or a rich blue. Who am I to question the woman who developed these colors? Are you ready to see what I chose?? * * * I'm in love!!!!!!! I chose Annie's Aubusson Blue to compliment the warm Coco. I am so thrilled with this piece!!!! Just look at the warm glow you can achieve with the clear wax. Splendiferous! I am so happy with this combo...Aubusson Blue is a magnificent super rich blue. This is my first project using AB and I know I will be using this color many more times. I think it is especially great when painting a piece and you don't want it to look to girly, but still want a pretty look. Husbands will love this color...Mr. Secret Agent kept commenting how great this piece looked. As I painted the interior, I kept my brush strokes very loose and did a lot of X strokes. I did not attempt to achieve full coverage, but a kind of painted canvas look. Once I waxed and buffed the interior, it took on a crushed velvet sort of texture. So pretty. Here is that wonderful wax/buff glow again. These paints just always seem to give me the look I am striving for with minimal work. I always make sure to paint and wax the tops of these bigger pieces in case you can see it from a high landing or balcony setting. I accented with some of the new Pure White and then sanded off 60% of it for a nice age worn look. I didn't want it too bright. After the painting was completed, I applied a coat of clear wax and then did my distressing and sanding. This really helped to cut down on the chalk dust. I worked on this piece exactly where you see it in the photos.....yeah I know, I'm crazy that way. But I tell you this because by waxing first, I had a little chalk dust that fell to the floor which I easily vacuumed up. I then simply vacuumed the whole piece. Hardly any mess at all. I hand sanded, but if you use a palm sander without a bag, it will blow that stuff all over. I would use that outside or in a workshop space only . Sorry, my knee shot is a little blurry, but you get the idea. I painted right over the knobs with the Coco and then dry brushed with more of the White. Now the pulls really stand out. I can't help myself...I have to brag about the wonderful finish you can get with the waxes. You should feel this piece...smooth as a....well you know. Look how incredible the Aubusson looks with Ironstone plates... be still my pounding heart! Tell me...does this not look like a Dutch Masters still-life painting?????? So let's review, shall we? Here they are side by side Before/After Which one gets your vote? I vote for the beautiful French lady. To all those who passed this lady by without a glance in her direction.. You should see My Fair Lady now! Ok....now let's talk Chalk Paint shall we? I've noticed lot's of talk on a few blogs recently about making your own chalk paint. I have no problem with trying to save money or looking for a less expensive method of achieving identical results on a project of any kind. I tip my hat to all the great DIY'ers out there. This is just my opinion my friends. It does however bother me to read that Annie is being 'exposed'. As if the many years she has spent (over 40) perfecting her product and brand is not genuine and valid. Yes ASCP is more costly than a gallon of Glidden or Behr, but you are comparing apples to oranges. Annie Sloan's chalk paint is NOT a latex based product. It will NOT get a skin if you leave the can open. Distresses like a dream which, from what I've read, the homemade one does not. I fail to see how adding Calcium Carbonate to Latex paint will magically turn it into chalk paint of the same quality. It will be chalky looking, but I think the likeness ends there. Hello Ladies...the LATEX is still there!!!! I was just in my local paint shop and saw other very well respected and high end European and American paint brands selling for $40.00 a quart. It is not that unusual for high quality, highly pigmented paint. There are many excellent qualities that you can not get by simply adding Gesso or Calcium Carbonate. Has anyone tested the long term adhesion of these DIY versions? I sell my pieces and I need to be darn sure that they will hold up and stay beautiful for many years. I also don't have time to wait a week for the latex paint to fully cure. Time is money. I even e-mailed the kind folks at Behr and asked them about all this. Their rep. Jonathan said "We do not recommend using any non-Behr additives to our paints as this may affect the proper curing and adhesion of the paint." Glidden and Martha Stewart said the same thing. Many of the DIY CP projects I read about had a lot of I added more this.....I changed the ratio of that...I had to redo this" For me..I don't have time for that. I want to open a can and GO! The piece I showcased in this post was completed using approx. $5.80 worth of Coco and $2.00 worth of Aubusson Blue. I'm talking $7.80 to totally restyle and have complete confidence in the lasting beauty of this very large piece! Please explain how that is too costly? Last month the blogosphere was filled with reviews of the new Martha Stewart craft paint line. I read hundreds of adoring comments about what a fabulous product this was and how everyone was going to run out and buy some.. On HSN (Home Shopping Network) they are selling an 18 pk/2oz. bottle (36 oz) package of the stuff for $33.21 Quart plus possible tax Folkart Acrylics craft paint typically retails for $1.99 per 2oz bottle or $32.00 Quart (32oz) Not much less than ASCP's $35.00 quart (32oz) I't all relative my friends and I'm just trying to keep it all in the proper prospective. And no...I am not a stockist of Annie's paint, but I would proudly sell it in a heart beat. Thanks for indulging me in my defense of ASCP. As the Dutch are known to say " There is nothing more expensive than cheap paint " TM Until next time...be kind and stay creative. sharing here this week: Dittle Dattle Between Naps On The Porch Shades of Amber Hope Studios Savvy Southern Style My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia The Shabby Creek Cottage Miss Mustard Seed At The Picket Fence
Pull-out pantry shelves, or really any wide, shallow, pull-out shelves are such a successful idea in theory. Indeed, they are a huge step beyond the deep shelf, which doesn't provide sufficient access to items residing at the back. The pull-out shelf is the deep shelf but movable, see. If we're being honest (which, most times
Yellow comes in so many shades and makes for a sunny appearance on a home's exterior. See these 12 charming yellow houses sure to make you smile!
This 1970s North Carolina condo was transformed into a light and airy home by Betsy Anderson Interiors. Take a look at this inspiring space!
Hello friends..happy to have you visit once again. How was your weekend? Mr. Secret Agent had the holiday off, so he was very busy doing lot's of yard work. Don't feel bad...he thrives outside on his John Deere. I on the other hand spent it painting. I am so excited to show you what I have been working on this weekend. You know those people who fall in love with inanimate objects..like the Eiffel Tower and the Brooklyn Bridge Really...I believe a girl even married herself to the Eiffel Tower! Sick..right? Well I have joined their club... About a month ago, I spotted this maple china cabinet at my local Warrenton Salvation Macy's. it got my attention, but I didn't buy it. Each time I returned and it was still sitting there, I was more intrigued. The price was great and it was a solid piece of wood furniture. Were people not able to see past the slightly outdatedness of it?? Couldn't anyone see it's possibilities???? Well I was going to show them what they were missing out on. I bought that lonely china cabinet and they even delivered it right to my doorstep! Are you ready to see what a little imagination and some Annie Sloan chalk paint can do? I had just received my new chalk paint colors and thought this would be a good piece to try out the Coco. Beautiful color...warm and rich. I knew I wanted to paint the interior a different color and had a bit of a dilema as to which one to choose. I decided on Cream, which is really a buttery pale yellow. Cream is a gorgeous subtle color. However... It was not winning me over here. Coco and Cream are beautiful separately, but together, they washed each other out. On to Plan B I went on Annie's Facebook page and asked her for help. Now this is what I love about this lady....she answered me with her opinions. Annie suggested to pair the Coco with either Emperor's Silk, a drop dead gorgeous red, or a rich blue. Who am I to question the woman who developed these colors? Are you ready to see what I chose?? * * * I'm in love!!!!!!! I chose Annie's Aubusson Blue to compliment the warm Coco. I am so thrilled with this piece!!!! Just look at the warm glow you can achieve with the clear wax. Splendiferous! I am so happy with this combo...Aubusson Blue is a magnificent super rich blue. This is my first project using AB and I know I will be using this color many more times. I think it is especially great when painting a piece and you don't want it to look to girly, but still want a pretty look. Husbands will love this color...Mr. Secret Agent kept commenting how great this piece looked. As I painted the interior, I kept my brush strokes very loose and did a lot of X strokes. I did not attempt to achieve full coverage, but a kind of painted canvas look. Once I waxed and buffed the interior, it took on a crushed velvet sort of texture. So pretty. Here is that wonderful wax/buff glow again. These paints just always seem to give me the look I am striving for with minimal work. I always make sure to paint and wax the tops of these bigger pieces in case you can see it from a high landing or balcony setting. I accented with some of the new Pure White and then sanded off 60% of it for a nice age worn look. I didn't want it too bright. After the painting was completed, I applied a coat of clear wax and then did my distressing and sanding. This really helped to cut down on the chalk dust. I worked on this piece exactly where you see it in the photos.....yeah I know, I'm crazy that way. But I tell you this because by waxing first, I had a little chalk dust that fell to the floor which I easily vacuumed up. I then simply vacuumed the whole piece. Hardly any mess at all. I hand sanded, but if you use a palm sander without a bag, it will blow that stuff all over. I would use that outside or in a workshop space only . Sorry, my knee shot is a little blurry, but you get the idea. I painted right over the knobs with the Coco and then dry brushed with more of the White. Now the pulls really stand out. I can't help myself...I have to brag about the wonderful finish you can get with the waxes. You should feel this piece...smooth as a....well you know. Look how incredible the Aubusson looks with Ironstone plates... be still my pounding heart! Tell me...does this not look like a Dutch Masters still-life painting?????? So let's review, shall we? Here they are side by side Before/After Which one gets your vote? I vote for the beautiful French lady. To all those who passed this lady by without a glance in her direction.. You should see My Fair Lady now! Ok....now let's talk Chalk Paint shall we? I've noticed lot's of talk on a few blogs recently about making your own chalk paint. I have no problem with trying to save money or looking for a less expensive method of achieving identical results on a project of any kind. I tip my hat to all the great DIY'ers out there. This is just my opinion my friends. It does however bother me to read that Annie is being 'exposed'. As if the many years she has spent (over 40) perfecting her product and brand is not genuine and valid. Yes ASCP is more costly than a gallon of Glidden or Behr, but you are comparing apples to oranges. Annie Sloan's chalk paint is NOT a latex based product. It will NOT get a skin if you leave the can open. Distresses like a dream which, from what I've read, the homemade one does not. I fail to see how adding Calcium Carbonate to Latex paint will magically turn it into chalk paint of the same quality. It will be chalky looking, but I think the likeness ends there. Hello Ladies...the LATEX is still there!!!! I was just in my local paint shop and saw other very well respected and high end European and American paint brands selling for $40.00 a quart. It is not that unusual for high quality, highly pigmented paint. There are many excellent qualities that you can not get by simply adding Gesso or Calcium Carbonate. Has anyone tested the long term adhesion of these DIY versions? I sell my pieces and I need to be darn sure that they will hold up and stay beautiful for many years. I also don't have time to wait a week for the latex paint to fully cure. Time is money. I even e-mailed the kind folks at Behr and asked them about all this. Their rep. Jonathan said "We do not recommend using any non-Behr additives to our paints as this may affect the proper curing and adhesion of the paint." Glidden and Martha Stewart said the same thing. Many of the DIY CP projects I read about had a lot of I added more this.....I changed the ratio of that...I had to redo this" For me..I don't have time for that. I want to open a can and GO! The piece I showcased in this post was completed using approx. $5.80 worth of Coco and $2.00 worth of Aubusson Blue. I'm talking $7.80 to totally restyle and have complete confidence in the lasting beauty of this very large piece! Please explain how that is too costly? Last month the blogosphere was filled with reviews of the new Martha Stewart craft paint line. I read hundreds of adoring comments about what a fabulous product this was and how everyone was going to run out and buy some.. On HSN (Home Shopping Network) they are selling an 18 pk/2oz. bottle (36 oz) package of the stuff for $33.21 Quart plus possible tax Folkart Acrylics craft paint typically retails for $1.99 per 2oz bottle or $32.00 Quart (32oz) Not much less than ASCP's $35.00 quart (32oz) I't all relative my friends and I'm just trying to keep it all in the proper prospective. And no...I am not a stockist of Annie's paint, but I would proudly sell it in a heart beat. Thanks for indulging me in my defense of ASCP. As the Dutch are known to say " There is nothing more expensive than cheap paint " TM Until next time...be kind and stay creative. sharing here this week: Dittle Dattle Between Naps On The Porch Shades of Amber Hope Studios Savvy Southern Style My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia The Shabby Creek Cottage Miss Mustard Seed At The Picket Fence
An optional lower level with two bedrooms and a huge rec room can provide space for your visiting family if you are an empty nester or extra space for your growing family if you are just starting out. The wonderful view from the foyer extends over the open rail that leads to the lower level, to the giant great room beyond with a fireplace and triple window. A gourmet kitchen and dinette are also open to this delightful space. Both a screened porch with fireplace and a deck are designed for outdoor enjoyment. A vaulted study could become a second bedroom if you choose not to finish the lower level. Relocate the washer/dryer to the mudroom and you have space for that second bath as well. Related Plan: Get an alternate layout with house plan 14310RK.
Explore decorotufiesta's 188 photos on Flickr!
Hello friends..happy to have you visit once again. How was your weekend? Mr. Secret Agent had the holiday off, so he was very busy doing lot's of yard work. Don't feel bad...he thrives outside on his John Deere. I on the other hand spent it painting. I am so excited to show you what I have been working on this weekend. You know those people who fall in love with inanimate objects..like the Eiffel Tower and the Brooklyn Bridge Really...I believe a girl even married herself to the Eiffel Tower! Sick..right? Well I have joined their club... About a month ago, I spotted this maple china cabinet at my local Warrenton Salvation Macy's. it got my attention, but I didn't buy it. Each time I returned and it was still sitting there, I was more intrigued. The price was great and it was a solid piece of wood furniture. Were people not able to see past the slightly outdatedness of it?? Couldn't anyone see it's possibilities???? Well I was going to show them what they were missing out on. I bought that lonely china cabinet and they even delivered it right to my doorstep! Are you ready to see what a little imagination and some Annie Sloan chalk paint can do? I had just received my new chalk paint colors and thought this would be a good piece to try out the Coco. Beautiful color...warm and rich. I knew I wanted to paint the interior a different color and had a bit of a dilema as to which one to choose. I decided on Cream, which is really a buttery pale yellow. Cream is a gorgeous subtle color. However... It was not winning me over here. Coco and Cream are beautiful separately, but together, they washed each other out. On to Plan B I went on Annie's Facebook page and asked her for help. Now this is what I love about this lady....she answered me with her opinions. Annie suggested to pair the Coco with either Emperor's Silk, a drop dead gorgeous red, or a rich blue. Who am I to question the woman who developed these colors? Are you ready to see what I chose?? * * * I'm in love!!!!!!! I chose Annie's Aubusson Blue to compliment the warm Coco. I am so thrilled with this piece!!!! Just look at the warm glow you can achieve with the clear wax. Splendiferous! I am so happy with this combo...Aubusson Blue is a magnificent super rich blue. This is my first project using AB and I know I will be using this color many more times. I think it is especially great when painting a piece and you don't want it to look to girly, but still want a pretty look. Husbands will love this color...Mr. Secret Agent kept commenting how great this piece looked. As I painted the interior, I kept my brush strokes very loose and did a lot of X strokes. I did not attempt to achieve full coverage, but a kind of painted canvas look. Once I waxed and buffed the interior, it took on a crushed velvet sort of texture. So pretty. Here is that wonderful wax/buff glow again. These paints just always seem to give me the look I am striving for with minimal work. I always make sure to paint and wax the tops of these bigger pieces in case you can see it from a high landing or balcony setting. I accented with some of the new Pure White and then sanded off 60% of it for a nice age worn look. I didn't want it too bright. After the painting was completed, I applied a coat of clear wax and then did my distressing and sanding. This really helped to cut down on the chalk dust. I worked on this piece exactly where you see it in the photos.....yeah I know, I'm crazy that way. But I tell you this because by waxing first, I had a little chalk dust that fell to the floor which I easily vacuumed up. I then simply vacuumed the whole piece. Hardly any mess at all. I hand sanded, but if you use a palm sander without a bag, it will blow that stuff all over. I would use that outside or in a workshop space only . Sorry, my knee shot is a little blurry, but you get the idea. I painted right over the knobs with the Coco and then dry brushed with more of the White. Now the pulls really stand out. I can't help myself...I have to brag about the wonderful finish you can get with the waxes. You should feel this piece...smooth as a....well you know. Look how incredible the Aubusson looks with Ironstone plates... be still my pounding heart! Tell me...does this not look like a Dutch Masters still-life painting?????? So let's review, shall we? Here they are side by side Before/After Which one gets your vote? I vote for the beautiful French lady. To all those who passed this lady by without a glance in her direction.. You should see My Fair Lady now! Ok....now let's talk Chalk Paint shall we? I've noticed lot's of talk on a few blogs recently about making your own chalk paint. I have no problem with trying to save money or looking for a less expensive method of achieving identical results on a project of any kind. I tip my hat to all the great DIY'ers out there. This is just my opinion my friends. It does however bother me to read that Annie is being 'exposed'. As if the many years she has spent (over 40) perfecting her product and brand is not genuine and valid. Yes ASCP is more costly than a gallon of Glidden or Behr, but you are comparing apples to oranges. Annie Sloan's chalk paint is NOT a latex based product. It will NOT get a skin if you leave the can open. Distresses like a dream which, from what I've read, the homemade one does not. I fail to see how adding Calcium Carbonate to Latex paint will magically turn it into chalk paint of the same quality. It will be chalky looking, but I think the likeness ends there. Hello Ladies...the LATEX is still there!!!! I was just in my local paint shop and saw other very well respected and high end European and American paint brands selling for $40.00 a quart. It is not that unusual for high quality, highly pigmented paint. There are many excellent qualities that you can not get by simply adding Gesso or Calcium Carbonate. Has anyone tested the long term adhesion of these DIY versions? I sell my pieces and I need to be darn sure that they will hold up and stay beautiful for many years. I also don't have time to wait a week for the latex paint to fully cure. Time is money. I even e-mailed the kind folks at Behr and asked them about all this. Their rep. Jonathan said "We do not recommend using any non-Behr additives to our paints as this may affect the proper curing and adhesion of the paint." Glidden and Martha Stewart said the same thing. Many of the DIY CP projects I read about had a lot of I added more this.....I changed the ratio of that...I had to redo this" For me..I don't have time for that. I want to open a can and GO! The piece I showcased in this post was completed using approx. $5.80 worth of Coco and $2.00 worth of Aubusson Blue. I'm talking $7.80 to totally restyle and have complete confidence in the lasting beauty of this very large piece! Please explain how that is too costly? Last month the blogosphere was filled with reviews of the new Martha Stewart craft paint line. I read hundreds of adoring comments about what a fabulous product this was and how everyone was going to run out and buy some.. On HSN (Home Shopping Network) they are selling an 18 pk/2oz. bottle (36 oz) package of the stuff for $33.21 Quart plus possible tax Folkart Acrylics craft paint typically retails for $1.99 per 2oz bottle or $32.00 Quart (32oz) Not much less than ASCP's $35.00 quart (32oz) I't all relative my friends and I'm just trying to keep it all in the proper prospective. And no...I am not a stockist of Annie's paint, but I would proudly sell it in a heart beat. Thanks for indulging me in my defense of ASCP. As the Dutch are known to say " There is nothing more expensive than cheap paint " TM Until next time...be kind and stay creative. sharing here this week: Dittle Dattle Between Naps On The Porch Shades of Amber Hope Studios Savvy Southern Style My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia The Shabby Creek Cottage Miss Mustard Seed At The Picket Fence
This past weekend Cason and I embarked on one of our all-time favorite events … The Parade of Homes in Salt Lake City. We went last year together for the first time, after helping plan and decorate the 2012 blogger house, and we knew immediately that this was going to be an annual tradition for…
