Year in Review: Helping You Look Ahead

Now that all the ho-ho-hoing is behind us, it's time to jump into 2014 with fresh goals and sweet expectations. A popular inspirational quote on Pinterest now advises: "Don't follow your dreams, chase them!"  Maybe you have dreams of selling your home. <br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-1-P1040264_zpsdc1f0bf2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-1-P1040264_zpsdc1f0bf2.jpg" width="347" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">My blog is supposed to help you stage your home.<br />It's 2014. How am I doing?  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>With that possibility in mind, I've gathered the posts from this blog that more people read in 2013, the posts they liked and shared on Facebook, commented on, and pinned on Pinterest.<br /><br />To this list, I've added the posts I personally think will help you the most when you are staging a home for sale. <br /><br />To kick things off, in January I blogged about assessing your own staging efforts. Most people have difficulty judging their own work. I devised a simple test to see if your <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/01/can-your-home-pass-this-staging-quiz.html" target="_blank">home staging tricks</a> are all that they can be. Just answer the questions and you'll know if what you've done to get your home sold is on track.<br /><br />Some readers and Facebook friends told me I was giving away too many secrets when I wrote about the pros and cons of tackling DIY staging, but I like readers to make their own choices. Here's what to read if you are wondering if you should <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/03/should-you-stage-your-own-home-or-hire.html" target="_blank">stage your own home or hire a stager</a>.<br /><br />In May I waxed all nostalgic about my love affair with porches. Porches add value to a home, but even if your house doesn't have a real porch, decks and patios can be just as charming to buyers. Learn how to stage a front porch and your curb appeal can skyrocket. <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/05/best-tips-for-staging-your-porch.html" target="_blank">Stage any porch</a> and you've added usable square footage to your home.   <br /><br />I recently viewed a home and was asked what to change about the decor. The single mistake that stood out was a lack of pattern. All walls, all draperies, all upholstery and all flooring were solid colors. If you are afraid of adding pattern, you need to get over it! Please read this post to learn <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/08/how-to-make-patterns-work-for-your-home.html" target="_blank">how to mix patterns.</a><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/decorpadtwinbeds_zps2aee0b27.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/decorpadtwinbeds_zps2aee0b27.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Bedroom and living room furniture define the lifestyle a home portrays. Find out why<br />mid century modern furniture is ideal for staging. Photo: Bryght Modern Furniture.    </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Since I think <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/03/what-you-should-know-about-mid-century.html" target="_blank">mid century modern furniture</a> is beautiful, I'm glad many readers agreed. You don't need to live in a 1950's ranch house to make the most of this style's clean lines and classic textiles. Discover all the reasons why MCM designs are safe choices for effective home staging. <br /><br />Who doesn't love a makeover? I kept the chair my friend Rhys wanted to throw out because I knew I wanted to experiment with painting fabric. It was one DIY project that received a good number of Pins, and a makeover I really had some fun with. Go visit my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/04/how-to-beautify-ugly-microfiber-chair.html" target="_blank">microfiber chair repaint</a>.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1040958_zps586f18af.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1040958_zps586f18af.jpg" width="324" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">My husband is a rock star to my mind. <br />He taught me all his professional <br />painting secrets. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>But this tutorial on <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/04/diy-project-overhead-garage-door-re.html" target="_blank">painting an overhead garage door</a> received even more views and Pins. If you are not a blogger yourself, you may not realize all the planning and details that go into making a good tutorial. When someone else is doing the work -- my own Mr. Lucky in this case -- and I am the photographer and note-taker, a tutorial is a whole lot easier to put together.<br /><br />I wrote a few posts about <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/09/five-rules-for-staging-mantel.html" target="_blank">how to stage a mantel</a>, but this one seems to have the best advice, all in a nutshell. Learning how to put together a pretty mantel is an excellent exercise to hone your skills for tablescaping and accessorizing any room. The same rules apply. Check 'em out.<br /><br />People who know me know I am happiest when I'm fooling around with plants. Whether you are a gardener or not, your home will benefit from a few strategically placed potted plants. Here's the skinny on <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/06/quick-and-dirty-tips-for-plant.html" target="_blank">how to choose containers for container plants. </a><br /><br />It's common knowledge that <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/08/dont-be-tv-diva-when-you-paint-walls.html" target="_blank">painting a room</a> is one of the best ways to spend time and money when you're selling a house. As a professional housepainter, it drives me a little batsy to see people do it wrong, wasting energy or getting poor results. Please don't let that be you. Do yourself a favor and follow my simple room-painting pointers.<br /><br />Those are my Top Ten. If putting your home on the market is part of the plans you have for 2014, I sincerely hope that these posts and my blog and <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>s help you reach your goals.<br /><br />I am looking forward to an exciting year ahead as my blog continues to grow, thanks to readers like you. I value each one of you, and hope you'll continue following my home staging adventures in the coming months. I have so many ideas and projects to share with you!<br /><br /><br />

Year in Review: Helping You Look Ahead

Now that all the ho-ho-hoing is behind us, it's time to jump into 2014 with fresh goals and sweet expectations. A popular inspirational ...

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What Makes a Great Tablescape?

<div class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060923_zps97f32bcf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060923_zps97f32bcf.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A good tablescape juxtaposes rustic and refined, tall and short, new and old.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Do you wonder why, despite your efforts, your tabletop displays don’t look like those you see in magazines and decorator showhouses?<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">There are some simple steps you can take to turn those lackluster displays into pleasing, vignettes.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Why bother? Because in a staged home on the market, tabletops can help you sell your home. They are one of the few areas where you can play with some details to <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/02/how-to-make-your-home-look-new.html" target="_blank">make your home look newer</a> and more interesting, where you can add another layer to capture the imagination of buyers. They can also <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/02/if-youve-got-location-flaunt-it-heres.html" target="_blank">stress the uniqueness of your locale</a>, the pedigree of your home, or an appreciation for the current season.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span> <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Easy as One, Two, Three</span></b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">There are three steps I depend on for a winning tablescape. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">First is to use something from nature such as flowers, fruit, coral, plants, pine cones, acorns, shells or rocks. These things might be painted or left natural, real or artificial, large or not-so-large.     <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Second is to add something refined or glamorous such as a hand crafted ceramic piece, a beautifully framed sketch, glassware, leather bound books, or a lacquer box. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Third is to choose something that serves as a background that ties it all together such as a tray, a large open basket or bowl, a cutting board, a table runner, or a garland.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To create a table centerpiece suitable to stage a dining room in autumn (above photo), I made a simple grapevine wreath. My other natural element is green apples. The glass bowl holding the apples is my requisite "refined piece," even though it isn’t cut crystal or hand blown glass. And the checkered table runner is my background layer. Like I said, easy as counting to three.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">You can elaborate on these basics if the area you are staging is large. Just add more props from nature or some beautiful <i>objet d'art.</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> Don't think that you need to bust your budget at the home decor store, although that's a great place to go for inspiration and ideas. Often the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/finishing-touches-department-where-to.html" target="_blank">home staging props</a> that make sense for the style and location of your home are all around you -- in your closets, supermarket, backyard, garage, attic, bookcase, or local thrift stores. </span><o:p></o:p><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1060909_zps1eab7b7f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1060909_zps1eab7b7f.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Small items can be pilfered when your home is being shown, so stage with props that<br />are too big to fit in pockets, or that don't have much value, like these nuts in a bowl.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-blog-tablescapesdownloadsdavidjimenez_zps12f8a688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="556" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-blog-tablescapesdownloadsdavidjimenez_zps12f8a688.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Decorator David Jimenez uses a simple black and white color palette to unify<br />all the objects on a bedside tabletop, Some are organic, some are reflective,<br />and there's always some kind of tray to gather up the little things.    </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Stay with the Season</span></b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">All of the elements in my fall centerpiece reflect the time of year in my mind. The apples and grapevines represent harvest time. Other autumnal props you might prefer are the ubiquitous pumpkins and gourds in all shapes, sizes, colors, designs and materials. Bittersweet berries, leaves, and other woodsy elements are natural fall choices. When I think of the fall I also think of sweaters, plaids, and houndstooth patterns (especially popular this year), baskets, old barn wood, corn husks, quilts, and dark leather.    <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Candles are especially <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-abcs-of-staging-seasonal-mantel.html" target="_blank">appropriate decor accessories for autumn</a>. Bring on the pillars, the votives, and the tapers!  During the summer, I don’t stage with candles. They just seem too “hot.” When days shorten in September, I'm glad to re-introduce candles.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">My checkered tablecloth is reminiscent of a homey country kitchen. A crisp black and white pattern is always in season and a checkerboard design is classic. Generally, autumn colors are the warm, muted, muddy colors of the season's diminished natural light and of the drying vegetation. But I like to use more urban touches as well, such as black, white and metallics.     <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">More Staging Tips</span></b><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">When you are choosing props to stage a table vignette, whether it’s a simple tabletop, a mantel, bookshelf, a bath vanity, or dining table, remember to choose objects of different heights, shapes, textures, uses and colors. It sounds like it might get chaotic, but trust me. As long as you choose items that share some unifying theme such as similar color or mood, you’re good. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Is your home for sale? Have you staged it? Is it staged to sell? Order my $5 <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for More Money,</i> and you’ll learn all the big and little tricks to make your home appealing to buyers.  <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>

What Makes a Great Tablescape?

A good tablescape juxtaposes rustic and refined, tall and short, new and old. Do you wonder why, despite your efforts, your tabletop display...

Read more »

Five Rules for Staging a Mantel

<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060626_zps016275b3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060626_zps016275b3.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">It's that time of year when a fireplace mantel<br />needs an autumnal dress-up. What's yours wearing?<br />Make it easy to do by following my rules.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />I am going to call them rules, even though we hear so much about follow your heart and break the rules when it comes to decorating.<br /><br />Unlike home decorating, home staging goes by a set of rules.<br /><br />Some people struggle with arranging vignettes like seasonal mantel displays and table vignettes. If that's you, this post's for you.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Rule 1. Start Big</span></b><br /><br />Just like the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/11/seven-steps-to-gorgeous-fireplace-mantel.html" target="_blank">Christmas mantel</a> I blogged about last year, having one large item gets you off to a great start.<br /><br />My favorite big starter is a piece of art, or even an <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/tips-for-dressing-your-mantel-in.html" target="_blank">empty frame or two.</a><br /><br />Center the big thing or else place it off-center. Once you get more accessories on the mantel, you'll probably be re-arranging it to experiment and fine tune. <br /><br />Other initial decor pieces that work well when staging a mantel are a good-sized mirror, a large platter, or a jumbo wreath. I've also used a sculpture, wall hangings, ships models, and floral arrangements. Use what you have. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Rule 2. Find a Wreath </span></b><br /><br />Wreaths are home stagers' and decorators' go-to prop. They come in all sizes, styles and shapes. They are easy to DIY and can always be counted on to designate the season.<br /><br />When a home is on the market, a little seasonal decor goes a long way to let buyers know the home is loved and well-managed. Just make sure your Christmas wreath isn't still hanging around in April.<br /><br />The wreath might be your one large item, like the one I used to <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/09/is-your-mantel-decorated-for-fall.html" target="_blank">stage another autumn mantel</a>. The chimney breast is a natural for the wreath, but anywhere on or even under the mantel works as well. The burlap and rafia wreath I made would need to be removed if there were a fire in the fireplace.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060621_zps4c35ca8e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060621_zps4c35ca8e.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Would you believe I made this wreath from two new feed sacks I spotted at my local<br />Tractor Supply Company? And the best part was the price -- one dollar each!<br />I just wrapped them around a  foam wreath and tied it all with rafia. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Rule 3. Count on Books</span></b><br /><br />Although they aren't essential to mantel staging, what could be more accessible and economical than books? Find a stack that fits on the mantel and lay them vertical or horizontal. I like older books for the character they add to a grouping.<br /><br />When you're staging your home, you can <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/06/stage-your-home-with-books-heres-how.html" target="_blank">use books in your favor</a>, as supporting members of your cast of props. Books telegraph a message to people viewing your home. Think about what you want the message to be. Vintage children's books are safe, and so are botanical, travel and wildlife books. How about books that emphasize <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/02/if-youve-got-location-flaunt-it-heres.html" target="_blank">what's unique about your locale</a>?<br /><br />Of course, people shopping for a home won't read your books, but many people read spines, out of habit or curiosity. Peak their interest. But avoid anything racy, political, religious or controversial. People like to do business with people who think and look like them, only better. Because, you know, they are buying your lifestyle when they buy your home.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060631_zpsd9ff59c4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="472" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060631_zpsd9ff59c4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">My <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-abcs-of-staging-seasonal-mantel.html" target="_blank">autumn mantel</a> revolved around a green color scheme. Frankly, I tire of the <br />orange and black routine, and this arrangement<br />can stay put past Halloween. A little stack of green books to the rescue!<br />Notice how I've propped up the framed art on a glass box to give it height.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-size: large;">Rule 4. Shop Mother Nature</span></b><br /><div><br /></div><div>Every room should include some organic elements -- a plant, flowers, fruit, or even shells, logs, leaves, twigs and other outdoor gleanings. There's a decor store featuring free accessories somewhere in your town -- a park, a beach, the woods, or your own yard.</div><div><br /></div><div>When I recommend fruit, flowers and plants, the artificial ones pass for home staging's purposes, as long as the quality is there. I used some greenery and gourds to give the mantel a fall-ish feeling.  </div><div><br /></div><div>I also chose the artwork over the mantel to reflect the season. I inherited this vintage watercolor of woodland fowl, and made a new mat for it because the frame and print were in good shape, but the mat was stained. Not only does it bring a touch of nature into the room, but its antique quality has some personality.  </div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Rule 5. Repeat and Vary</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div>One of the principles of good design is that certain elements get repeated, but there has to be some variation. Otherwise, your props are just a line of marching soldiers. </div><div><br /></div><div>So look for a variety of textures, but keep the colors similar. Or repeat a shape, but change the size. Don't forget to stagger the items to create a rhythm as you read from left to right. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060622_zps5486297c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060622_zps5486297c.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I liked the way the white urn, the green crockery, and the faux gourds all <br />repeat the motif of vertical ridges. They share a pattern, but they aren't identical.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Be sure to read the other mantel staging posts I've written and linked to above. A fireplace in a home on the market is an asset that needs to be emphasized. <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/08/how-to-arrange-furniture-most-common.html" target="_blank">Furniture arrangement</a> and mantel staging are the best ways to do that. </div><div><br /></div><div>For more DIY home staging advice and encouragement, download my $5 <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>,<i> DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar.  </i></div><div><br /></div><div>    </div><div>         </div>

Five Rules for Staging a Mantel

It's that time of year when a fireplace mantel needs an autumnal dress-up. What's yours wearing? Make it easy to do by following my ...

Read more »

This Season's Darling: The Tabletop Christmas Tree

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/Xmastabletoptreestopshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/Xmastabletoptreestopshot.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />“How do I decorate my home during the holidays?” That's one of the most common questions home sellers ask at this time of year. <br /><br />The simple answer is, “It depends.” It depends on whether you usually celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah in a traditional way.<br /><br />It depends on whether children live in your home, and how nostalgic you are.<br /><br />It depends on how uncluttered you want your home to look.<br /><br />It depends on what your personal taste is, how much space is available in your home, how big your budget is, and what your schedule looks like.<br /><br />One thing is for sure: there’s always room and some money for a tabletop tree. It’s seasonal, but ecumenical. It’s decorative, long-lasting, and fashionable. No matter what style your home reflects, you’re bound to be able to buy or DIY a small artificial tree for the holiday season.<br /><br />I’m talking about the tabletop trees that measure less than 18 inches – cute little things that bring a touch of color and maybe even humor to the smallest space. Spaces like a bath vanity, a foyer table, a bookcase, mantel or nightstand.<br /><br />I went a little crazy this year making tabletop trees for gifts, for clients, and for myself. Along the way I learned a few what not-to-dos, and discovered some quick and cheap ways to make them look special.  <br /><br />The two conical trees pictured above are the same Epsom salt-covered ones I used in my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/12/design-holiday-tablescape-perfect-for.html" target="_blank">tabletop display</a>. I just popped a silver ornament on top of each, and set them on matched silver candlesticks for a different look. The felt flower topiary in the fake pewter pot is leftover from the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/12/festive-staging-prop-extrodinaire-how.html" target="_blank">tutorial </a>I did last Christmas. It stored well. I just freshened it with some new spaghnum moss, and a bow in my favorite holiday color.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030798.jpg" width="464" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A dish towel with beads glued on, some pasta painted silver, and a burlap cone </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">dressed in ribbons and pipe cleaners -- each one makes a different kind of miniature<br /> Christmas tree. A</span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">nd not one of them was difficult to make. It fact, it was fast and fun! </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Make Similar Shapes </span></b><br /><br />If you’re going to be making more than one tree, I suggest making all your trees somewhat similar. You have enough to do without starting from zero with each DIY project. I used a cone shape for most of my trees. You can buy Styrofoam cones, floral foam cones, or paper mache cones. You can also fashion light weight cones from cardboard or poster board.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Get Inspired </span></b><br /><br />Let your materials inspire you. As usual, I gathered up odds and ends and craft supplies from around my house that I wanted to use or recycle. Having a stash at your fingertips prompts creativity. Look for fabrics, jewelry, natural objects, ornaments, paint, or paper that speaks to you and fits with your décor.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030751.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Pedestals and bases make a big difference. Try different styles until you find the right one</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">for your tree. I liked the look of milk glass under my one candy and two ribbon trees. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Create Contrast</span></b><br /><br />You can mix it up so each tree is unique and interesting. Put a funky burlap tree in a shiny silver planter. Add a glitzy snowflake to the top of a humble Kraft paper tree. Place new with old, rough with smooth, glossy with dull, black with white.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Think Sturdy</span></b><br /><br />If you want your trees to last over time, so you can bring them out again in years ahead, make them strong enough to be packed away. That means nothing flimsy, and nothing perishable that might invite mold or animals. My pasta tree and candy tree are “annuals,” rather than perennials.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030779.jpg" width="457" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Corrugated cardboard (one layer peeled away), felt, and tulle, are the makings for little trees.<br />Trees this size make easy work of decorating a mantel, even a narrow one, for the holidays.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Economize</span></b><br /><br />Look for ways to save money by substituting less pricey materials for what you’d purchase finished at craft stores. I found I could make a paper mache cone by wrapping a store-bought one with aluminum foil and adding layers of newsprint smeared well with school glue. Once it’s hardened, you can slip the $4 cone out, so you have an extra cone (or more if you want to repeat the process).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="624" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030820.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The driftwood tree is just sticks, glue and shells. The middle tree is sheet moss I <br />glued to a cardboard cone cut from half a sheet of poster board, set on a metal candlestick. <br />And the topiary is sea glass glued to a plastic salad spoon stuck in sand-filled <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/make-your-very-own-garden-planter-that.html" target="_blank">hypertufa </a>pot.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Last year <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/12/how-to-make-jolly-holiday-topiary.html" target="_blank">topiaries</a> captured my heart. This year, I am infatuated with tabletop trees. And I’m not the only one. I’m seeing them in all the stores, in magazines, online, and on Pinterest. On my own Pinterest Tabletop Trees Board, I’ve already pinned over 45 of my favorites, and I know I’ll add more. Are you smitten with these little trees? Have you made one?<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Let Me Help You Stage</span></b><br /><br />Do you have a home on the market? Have you staged it? No matter where you live or what your home is like, it’s already staged, vacant or inhabited, clean or cluttered – it’s staged! You might as well stage it to sell! Download my $5 <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar</i>, so you can quickly and thriftily improve the marketability of your home for sale. <br /> <center><a href="http://www.handymancraftywoman.com/"><img border="0" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/lars72/733blog%20design%20images/WAW_BUTTON.png" /></a></center> <br />

This Season's Darling: The Tabletop Christmas Tree

“How do I decorate my home during the holidays?” That's one of the most common questions home sellers ask at this time of year. The simp...

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Seven Steps to a Gorgeous Fireplace Mantel

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1020432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1020432.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Christmas and fireplace mantels are a tight twosome. With or without the traditional hung stockings, you can make your mantel the nostalgic and charming focal point of the room.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Because nostalgia and charm resonate with home buyers.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Here’s what I did to dress for the season a  driftwood mantel on a rugged stone fireplace that needs to be the focal point of this family room. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 1.  Start with an Idea</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Your idea might be a particular color scheme or a specific topic. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">When it comes to colors and style, at holiday time you have an excuse to go glitzy or dramatic.<br /><br />For example, metallics and saturated colors that you might normally avoid while staging your home, are perfect for holiday décor. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">On the other hand, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-all-white-color-palette-is-it.html" target="_blank">monotone color schemes </a>and minimalistic styling can be smashingly elegant. It’s one way to simplify your life, because putting decorations up at the start of the season takes time, and then taking them down and storing them away takes time again in January. Keep it simple.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">For this mantel I decided to concentrate on traditional reds and greens for my color theme. My topic theme was nature, because this house sits on a densely wooded lot. In fact, all the greenery came from the property. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Some examples of specific topics would be themes like antique toys, Mercury glass, shabby chic angel ornaments, ceramic animals, or the classic nativity crèche. If your home is for sale, you might want to choose a theme that accentuates what's special about the house or the room.   </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 2.  Go Collecting</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1020347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1020347.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">This garland has plenty of texture, but <br />the colors keep it simple. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">If you are undecided about an idea to tie your mantel decorations together, begin with step two. <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/finishing-touches-department-where-to.html" target="_blank">Shop your home</a> and see what elements you have available. Use your imagination to repurpose items. An inverted vase can become a pedestal. A necklace can become a swag.  Books can become wrapped gifts.    </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Don’t ignore what’s growing in your vicinity (pinecones, greenery, logs, seed pods, bare branches…) as well as what you’ve tucked away in closets and other storage areas like the garage, garden shed or storage building. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Remember that paint will transform almost anything into what your color scheme calls for. That old <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/02/how-to-faux-finish-plastic-flower-pot.html" target="_blank">plastic flower pot can look like granite</a>, and those thrift store vases can look like silver or gold  once they are spray painted.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 3. Go Shopping</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">This step isn’t always necessary. You may have all the things you need on hand. And if you are like many crafters or budget decorators, you’ve already scooped up Christmas decorations at summer garage sales and last year’s post-holiday sales. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Your materials should include some items with different textures, sizes, and materials. For example, don’t make everything transparent or everything solid. Instead, include some of both. Include dull surfaces and glossy surfaces, large forms and smaller shapes, some round objects and some hard edge objects. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 4. Set up Your Backdrop</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">It’s best to begin with a clean slate. So, remove whatever is on the mantel and give yourself room to work in front of the fireplace. Spread out the possible objects you’ve collected. <br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1020438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1020438.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Large magnolia leaves and sprigs of <br />variegated holly brought some weight <br />to one end of the mantel</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="MsoNormal">Next, place one large object as the background for the mantel grouping. You will be surprised what a difference this makes. It gets you off to a great start. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I hung a round wreath of artificial red berries on the chimney breast to get my arrangement going. You could use a mirror, an empty frame, a painting like I did for the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-abcs-of-staging-seasonal-mantel.html" target="_blank">autumn mantel</a> I blogged about, or something vintage like shutters or a door like I’ve see Angela at Cottage Magpie do when she <a href="http://cottagemagpie.com/how-to-fall-halloween-mantel/" target="_blank">stages a mantel</a>.  </div><div class="MsoNormal">     </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 5. Balance the Weight</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I often begin by hanging or draping something the length of the mantel. This is another way of unifying and balancing the grouping that’s to come.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">On the driftwood mantel, I strung the garland that I purchased at Michaels. I fell for it the moment I saw it. I adore the warm colors and woodsy feel to it. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I placed one item – the red berry tree – on one end of the mantel and some oversized  greenery at the opposite end. Now I had some balance and I could fill in with smaller items. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">6. Repeat the Colors</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1020439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1020439.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Plenty of greenery softened the look of the stone and unified my arrangement.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">I added a string of glistening red berries to the center of the mantel and some more springs of greenery that included real red berries. I wasn’t about to complicate things with too many colors since I was going for tradition and natural simplicity.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 7. Add some details</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To tie the brown garland into the green arrangements above it, I wove some evergreen sprigs into the chain. That’s all it took to finish the entire mantel.  <br /><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1020431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1020431.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Evergreen sprigs tucked into the swag and more red berries were part of the finishing touches. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">In the staged home, too many details will draw attention to the mantel itself, instead of the mantel calling attention to your selling point – the fireplace. Keeping decorations simple saves time, money and stress. When your home is on the market, you need <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/12/my-favorite-15-minute-holiday.html" target="_blank">easy and quick ways to add festive touches.</a>   </div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="MsoNormal">I write about mantel décor -- as well as what else you need to know about home staging -- in my $5 eBook, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar.</a> You can download the book now and start learning how to attract buyers to your property. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div></div><div align="center"><a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/christmas-mantel-decorating-ideas-link-party" title="The Lettered Cottage"><img alt="The Lettered Cottage" src="http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj29/LaylaPalmer/Linky%20Buttons/The_Lettered_Cottage.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div><center><a href="http://www.handymancraftywoman.com/"><img border="0" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/lars72/733blog%20design%20images/WAW_BUTTON.png" /></a></center>

Seven Steps to a Gorgeous Fireplace Mantel

Christmas and fireplace mantels are a tight twosome. With or without the traditional hung stockings, you can make your mantel the nostalgic ...

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The ABC's of Staging a Seasonal Mantel

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010620.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>A mantel that's decorated for the season gives a message to buyers that your home is getting the attention it deserves.<br /><br />And a little attention on your part goes a long  way. A few new props that indicate the season, or a different floral arrangement might be all you need to make your  mantel look current.     <br /><br />One of the easiest ways to <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/09/five-rules-for-staging-mantel.html" target="_blank">stage a mantel</a> is to start with a painting.<br /><br />A landscape painting is an especially good choice, because landscapes have a way of opening up a space. If the landscape showcases the local scenery, so much the better.<br /><br />To stage this fireplace mantel for the autumn season, I choose a painting I<a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/06/what-every-garage-sale-shopper-needs-to.html" target="_blank"> bought at a garage sale.</a> Since it's an autumn scene, I'm already half way to the look I want.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>My next step</b></span> was to hunt for objects that would pick up the colors in the painting. I also wanted to include a variety of textures, of materials, and of shapes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010627.jpg" /></a></div>    <br />There are plenty of soft and pleasing colors in this autumnal scene. I decided to bring out the greens and oranges with the props I chose, because those seemed the most autumnal. The walls in this room were a soft yellow, an ideal background for the painting.<br /><br />Still life paintings and abstract art are also excellent choices for home staging, providing they are not too distracting or controversial.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010633.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />I love the shape of this planter, and I love the reflective glaze. The color is perfect so I knew I'd use it on the mantel. Chances are that you already own the objects you need to stage a mantel in your own home. They should not be too small, too valuable, or too personal. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010644.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Every home stager</b></span> keeps an assortment of things like silks, and floral foam, and sheet moss or spaghnam moss to cover up the foam. I pulled out my faux Chinese lantern silks because I knew I didn't want to limit the color palette to greens.<br /><br />The wire stems on these silks were longer than I wanted them to be, but instead of cutting them off, I bent them back a few times. Now, if I need them long again, I just need to bend the stems straight.<br /><br />Even though the flowers are fake, I like to concentrate on flowers that are actually in season, the way I chose alliums and grass for <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/tips-for-dressing-your-mantel-in.html" target="_blank">staging this springtime mantel</a>. You can read my suggestions for <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/07/how-to-stage-fireplace-when-its.html" target="_blank">staging a summertime fireplace here</a>.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010628.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What fall arrangement</b></span> is complete without seasonal gourds or pumpkins?<br /><br />My green gourds are from the dollar store. I used them on a <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/09/is-your-mantel-decorated-for-fall.html" target="_blank">mantel last fall</a> and even after being stored in my garden shed all year, they're in like-new condition.<br /><br />I knew if I needed more things than what I had on hand, I could scavenge in my own neighborhood or backyard for pine cones, twigs, dried flowers, and even rocks.<br /><br />And there's always the recycling bin for interesting <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/finishing-touches-department-where-to.html" target="_blank">cheap staging props</a> that can be painted or otherwise disguised.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010630.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />I used a Michael's coupon to purchase the garland of berries, even though I wasn't sure how I would be using a string of berries.<br /><br />I wanted something metallic and something with a patina, so this candle holder came out of the prop closet.<br /><br />I also wanted some clear glass, so I brought out some vases and chimneys, not sure which ones I would use. I ended up setting this glass vase on top of the candle pedestal to give it height. Often, wide glass vases can look like hurricane chimneys but cost less and are not so fragile. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010615.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>I wasn't pleased</b></span> with this, my first attempt. The lineup of "marching gourds" looked too sterile, so I clustered them for the more interesting look you see in the top photo.<br /><br />Every tablescape or mantel arrangement calls for some fooling around before it all falls into place. So, gather your props of the season and see what you can create to bring your own mantel to life.<br /><br />My $5<a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank"> eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar </i>gives formulas for decorating mantels, as well as guidelines for arranging furniture, choosing paint colors, and all the other decisions you'll make to stage your own home.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1010620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1010620.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>

The ABC's of Staging a Seasonal Mantel

A mantel that's decorated for the season gives a message to buyers that your home is getting the attention it deserves. And a little att...

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The Stars Align When You Sprinkle in Some Bling

<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/obaz.production/uploads/product_image/image/4937/xlarge_img76o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/obaz.production/uploads/product_image/image/4937/xlarge_img76o.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-mercuryglass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-mercuryglass.jpg" width="325" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Aren't these contemporary Mercury glass vessels<br />from <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/mercury-glass-cityscape-vases-c459/" target="_blank">West Elm</a> to die for? Here's my choice of the<br />best tutorial for <a href="http://lovelylittledetails.com/2011/04/07/guest-post-diy-mercury-glass-tutorial-kelley-maria/" target="_blank">hacking the Mercury glass look</a>.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Recently I blogged about decorators' best tips for home staging.<br /><br />This week I want to focus on just one of those: Using shine to bring a room to life.<br /><br />Here are my favorite sources for the kind of bling I am taking about.<br /><ul><li>Mirrors</li><li>Crystal and clear glass</li><li>Lucite and acrylic</li><li>Glass</li><li>Silver</li><li>Brass</li><li>Nickle</li><li>Chrome</li><li>Sequins, rhinestones, beads and other embellishments</li><li>Mercury glass</li><li>Glossy plastic and vinyl </li><li>Stainless steel</li></ul>You probably already own some of the bright objects listed here. Your assignment this week, if you will allow me, is to locate at least one large glistening item in each room.<br /><br />Bathrooms and kitchens will be an easy place to start your assignment. Stainless appliances and ceramic fixtures quality. Glassware is a natural in these rooms. I'm picturing a large clean glass bowl of lemons in the kitchen, and apothecary jars of spa goodies in the bath.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Bring on the Bevel</span></b><br /><br />My favorite way to make a room glisten is to add mirrors. At least one per room. Large or small, depending.  And my favorite mirrors are bevelled mirrors. Heck, you can pick up a 30 x 30-inch <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/Decor-Wall-Decor-Mirrors/h_d1/N-5yc1vZbve6/R-203024519/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051#.UDE_rKmPWNo" target="_blank">sunburst mirror at Home Depot </a>for about $35, or a 36 x 30-inch <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_308323-20531-72272_4294856763__?productId=3468697&Ns=p_product_qty_sales_dollar|1" target="_blank">wide-framed mirror from Lowe's </a>for $60. That's alot of bling for the buck.<br /><br />Along the same lines, glass-covered prints in mirrored frames add serious wow to any room. I see these in vintage styles as well as sleek, contemporary styles.<br /><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/421752/Pleasant-Valley-contemporary-family-room-little-rock" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/421752_0_8-3360-contemporary-family-room.jpg" /></a></div></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"><i>These botanical images take on a modern vibe when they're placed in mirrored frames. </i></span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"><i>This <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/family-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">contemporary family room was design</a>ed by <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/little-rock" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Little Rock interior designer</a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/tobifairley/tobi-fairley-interior-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Tobi Fairley.  </a></i></span></small></div><small><br /></small></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.digsdigs.com/photos/inspiring-chandeliers-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www.digsdigs.com/photos/inspiring-chandeliers-17.jpg" width="499" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The bathroom chandelier, done right! There's lots of hard surfaces in this room -- </i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>the tub, floor, window, tin backsplash, </i><i>chrome faucet, and glass vases, </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>that the wooden fireplace surround </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>and door are a welcome counterpoint. Photo: DigsDigs.com</i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2012/05/15/101422259.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2012/05/15/101422259.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Stainless appliances are still popular. Whatever your opinion of stainless, </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>it does add gleaming surfaces </i><i>to a kitchen, and in a dark or otherwise </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>slightly </i><i>dated kitchen, that's a plus. Photo: BHG</i><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2012/07/20/101811684.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2012/07/20/101811684.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>A glass topped table and some clear seats almost disappear except for the shine </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>they bring to the eat-in nook. Chrome legs are sexy. No? Photo: BHG</i><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2012/05/27/24685a25cb6e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2012/05/27/24685a25cb6e.jpg" width="467" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></i> <i><span style="font-size: small;">A chandelier is the ultimate bling thing. Look for a place where a fancy<br />light fixture might be a surprise, like a closet or bath. Photo: Traditional Home</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2012/08/30/a0d37705c0dd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2012/08/30/a0d37705c0dd.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This bedroom by Sarah Richardson is layered with subtle shine: the glass door knob, </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>ceramic lamp base, lacquered nightstand, mirror over the bed, nailhead trim </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>on the headboard, a metallic vase, and some pillow textiles with sheen. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2008/04/15/71b28fea8534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2008/04/15/71b28fea8534.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>A patent leather headboard like this one is going to make a bed the </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>focal point of any room. </i><i>This House Beautiful bedroom also features </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>a mirror over </i><i>the headboard and some metallic Buddha lamps. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">Do your homework. Hunt your home for sources of shine. Make them part of your staging mix. And don't forget that the existing fixtures you have in your house -- the chrome faucets, the ceramic lamps, the bathroom mirrors, the stainless appliances  -- should sparkle because you've cleaned and polished them. Do these things, and your home on the market will outshine the competition. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Do you need more advice, inspiration and formulas for beautifully staging your home on the market? You need my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar</i>.  It's an instantly downloadable, 150+ page pdf guide to home staging, for only $5! You can't afford to e without it, and I guarantee you'll  be pleased or I will refund your money. <br />   </div></div></div></div>

The Stars Align When You Sprinkle in Some Bling

Aren't these contemporary Mercury glass vessels from West Elm  to die for? Here's my choice of the best tutorial for hacking the Mer...

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A Photo Primer for Staging Your Tabletops

<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010421.jpg" width="467" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Counters, tables and other level surfaces are <br />begging for decoration when it's time to stage your home. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Let's talk about the tables in your home on the market. </span><br /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Whether it's a <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/09/how-sofa-table-can-help-you-stage-room.html" target="_blank">sofa table</a>, coffee table, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/09/how-to-stage-bedroom.html" target="_blank">nightstand</a>, end table, vanity top, or even a <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/tips-for-dressing-your-mantel-in.html" target="_blank">mantel</a>, a flat surface is an opportunity to deliver that crucial "Buy this house!" message to people touring your home.</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Each tabletop should tell a story. The story, in essence, is how lovely it would be to live in this home. </span></span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I've selected photos that demonstrate the best tabletop staging tips I know. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">When it's time to create a tablescape, shop your own home, including closets, garage, attic, outdoors and even the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/finishing-touches-department-where-to.html" target="_blank">recycle bin </a>for interesting stuff to use or upcycle. Look for items that have interesting shapes and textures. Your props should be handsome and pretty without being overly detailed or distracting. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Most of us decorate our coffee tables and other surfaces at holiday time, but how about when your home is for sale? Use your skills and imagination as a DIY stager to make these surfaces speak to buyers. </span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img4-1.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2011/11/coffee-table/white-coffee-table-m.jpg?300:300" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img4-1.southernliving.timeinc.net/i/2011/11/coffee-table/white-coffee-table-m.jpg?300:300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Every table vignette needs a natural-looking element, like this <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/05/seven-secrets-to-making-silk-plants-and.html" target="_blank">silk plant</a>. Other </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">choices  would be shells, wood, baskets, rocks, or fruit. These items don't need to</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">be real, but they need to look like they came from nature. Photo: Southern Living. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="500" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010402.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Vary the heights</span></i> <i><span style="font-size: small;">of your chosen objects to make a pleasing group. The tallest item is<br />usually the focal point. You can use a stack of books to build height.</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">Feel free to mix real plants with silk plants, and to <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/05/ebony-and-ivory-ultimate-color-scheme.html" target="_blank">cover books</a> that don't "match."</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010363.jpg" width="384" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Whenever there is<a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/02/if-youve-got-location-flaunt-it-heres.html" target="_blank"> something special about your home</a>, emphasize it. Table decor<br />is an easy way top showcase specialness, like a water view or historic location. Note:<br />Many people will look at book spines and covers to judge owners and their tastes.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010330.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Some tables you will want to fill with lots of books, plants, baskets and bowls for a luxurious<br />display, and in other places a sparse setting like this one is all you need. It depends on your </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">home's style. Avoid displaying collections of things that might be too distracting.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="546" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010369.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/07/is-your-bathroom-staged-to-impress.html" target="_blank">bathroom</a> vanity is easy to stage. Use something shiny, something natural, and <br />something soft. Keep the color scheme simple, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/10/trends-that-can-update-your-home.html" target="_blank">trendy</a>, and refreshing. <br />Buyers want a bathroom that feels, looks and smells clean! </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="578" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010315.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A tray of any kind will unify a bunch of items. This silver tray provides a grounding<br />for a milk glass vase, some white books, and the shabby basket.<br />Remember not to stage with small valuables that could be stolen.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010440.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Got nitty-gritty? Hide the unsexy things like remote controls and grooming essentials<br />in attractive baskets or boxes. They'll be handy but less obvious. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>An unstaged tabletop is a missed opportunity to impress a potential buyer. I hope you'll have fun clearing off and reinventing the flat surfaces in your home when you stage it to sell!<br /><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I give you other ways to deliver the right messages to buyers in <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">my eBooks,</a> <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar,</i> and <i>No-Sew Curtains and Draperies to Stage Your Home</i>. Each eBook costs you just $5, but stretches your home staging budget from here, all the way to a purchase offer!</span></span><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>

A Photo Primer for Staging Your Tabletops

Counters, tables and other level surfaces are begging for decoration when it's time to stage your home.  Let's talk about the tables...

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How to Stage a Fireplace When It's Summertime

<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2008/09/01/b06af41d5e3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.decorpad.com/photos/2008/09/01/b06af41d5e3a.jpg" width="470" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>What better way to show off a fireplace in summer than <br />filling it with mirrors, the way Eddie Ross has done?   </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="margin: 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 10.45pt;">Most home buyers are drawn to a fireplace like moths to a flame. <o:p></o:p></div><div style="margin: 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 10.45pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">But in hot weather, a fireplace doesn't have all the magnetism it does on a snowy winter day. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">In summertime, all your rooms should feel cool and refreshing.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Feng shui experts say that a fireplace makes a room “hot” because it represents the “fire element,” and that an empty, unused fireplace represents lifeless or drained energy.</div><div style="margin: 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 10.45pt;">   <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">Even if you don't know beans about feng shui, you can't deny that there’s nothing appealing about an empty fireplace, no matter what the season. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">It’s a black hole in one wall. It looks like something’s missing or not working.    </div><div style="margin: 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 10.45pt;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 10.45pt;">Is there a way to <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/04/fireplace-facts-which-way-should-chairs_11.html" target="_blank">showcase your fireplace</a> without suggesting heat? Yes. Here's how.<o:p></o:p></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1cVBTLhejkBuQJIjLrPwvChDBg3CKoAibMY7fv3cHO5NQsIx4RTvVU8ZTRKbMCQ4FHd3d4FPyagWseV2nDyx2N8RQFl4VLCwu8lIQ8M646OM37kr9thL5-N8klyMEN9fSMOOU6PTtGuz/s400/Ali-Wentworth-Home-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1cVBTLhejkBuQJIjLrPwvChDBg3CKoAibMY7fv3cHO5NQsIx4RTvVU8ZTRKbMCQ4FHd3d4FPyagWseV2nDyx2N8RQFl4VLCwu8lIQ8M646OM37kr9thL5-N8klyMEN9fSMOOU6PTtGuz/s640/Ali-Wentworth-Home-.jpg" width="506" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Whether you're decorating coastal style or not, you can't go wrong <br />with an oversized clamshell, either empty or filled <br />with shells or plants. Ali Wentworth via Completely Coastal.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZj39kggmSRpeVQwPLYeZG9XkXHvnhs6E6KtW90zzZW6F5Yg0NOefbGzncreL1SHvwo5fi7KadDEQNKhE6GWRpBINtmWlrN6BeP7h15evUzUyhDykvZwdTJSZMoFlCOjVeD7copFEZ5Q4/s640/porchlightinteriorsblogspot_com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZj39kggmSRpeVQwPLYeZG9XkXHvnhs6E6KtW90zzZW6F5Yg0NOefbGzncreL1SHvwo5fi7KadDEQNKhE6GWRpBINtmWlrN6BeP7h15evUzUyhDykvZwdTJSZMoFlCOjVeD7copFEZ5Q4/s640/porchlightinteriorsblogspot_com.jpg" width="620" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A mirror in front of the firebox brightens any space, and a round one like <br />this adds some needed curves to the room. Photo: Porch Light Interiors.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/fireplace16-de.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/fireplace16-de.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Hydrangeas are always a popular fireplace prop, because they look fresh even when <br />dried. That means they'll look fine for months. Photo: Country Living Magazine. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://inmyownstyle.com/images/2011/07/Photo-2_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://inmyownstyle.com/images/2011/07/Photo-2_thumb.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Diane at In My Own Style blog designed this ever-so-sweet <a href="http://inmyownstyle.com/2011/07/decorative-screen-practically-made-for-you.html" target="_blank">decorative, folding screen</a>. <br />She made it no-sew style, from fabric attached to a pattern cutting board .</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/1-P1010109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/1-P1010109.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">My own fireplace looks like this in summer. I bought the fabric fan at a garage sale years ago. <br />It's the perfect firebox cover-up because of its cool color.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="color: #5b5b5b; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVI9NTVIiSAgEdU08_3bdvs0yjpa8hnJezc6SC2F3QR5zqtzM5KhYioMw03cqhT0VcANx2-qgOn14qoGjkqTBvLqRIThG4h7x5mtNgpa4GSVL8zGOWy3-ca_aqTcHoFDevoG5VyH_lxXSj/s1600/anchor-andirons-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVI9NTVIiSAgEdU08_3bdvs0yjpa8hnJezc6SC2F3QR5zqtzM5KhYioMw03cqhT0VcANx2-qgOn14qoGjkqTBvLqRIThG4h7x5mtNgpa4GSVL8zGOWy3-ca_aqTcHoFDevoG5VyH_lxXSj/s640/anchor-andirons-.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>If you're going to keep logs in your fireplace in summer, add some hardware like a </i></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i>handsome grate or these anchor themed andirons. Photo: Traditional Home.</i><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i></i></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></i></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small; font-style: italic;"></span></span></span><br /><div><div style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small; font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span></span></div><div align="left"><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><div style="font-style: italic;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 18pt;">More How-to's for Hot Weather Fireplace Staging</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Keep animal prints packed away during warm months. No furry pillows on<br /> the hearth, please.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> In summer, flowers and plants make more sense than candles in the</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><br /> firebox. Candles represent small fires.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> White birch logs or white ceramic logs look cool in the summer</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><br /> fireplace.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Any props that are beachy, nautical or coastal are perfect for</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><br /> fireplace staging.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Keep your colors on the cool and pale side of the color palette.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> When in doubt, concentrate on white for a refreshing, summertime</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><br /> color scheme.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Choose colorful and glazed ceramics rather than dark crockery</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><br /> and earthenware.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Any reminders of water, like seascapes, a fountain, shells, or fish</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><br /> motifs, make good props for the firebox, hearth, or</span> <span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/10/got-mantel-stage-it.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">mantel</span></a>, because</span> <span style="background-color: white;"><br /> they balance the fire element.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Make sure your firebox is clean, even if it is covered with a screen.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><br /> Buyers will look inside.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Your realtor and your MLS or FSBO listing should indicate that</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><br /> your fireplace is working if it is a functional fireplace.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Tracy at Comfort and Luxury blog did a marvelous post on</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://comfortandluxury.blogspot.com/2010/03/off-season-fireplace-fillers.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">out-of-season fireplaces</span></a>.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Need more ideas for fireplace staging? Check out my </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/barbarapilcher/fireplaces-out-of-season/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Pinterest Board, Fireplaces Out of Season.</span></a> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">If you download my $5</span><span style="color: #5b5b5b; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">ebook</a>,</span></span> <span style="background-color: white;">DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar,</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">you can start staging your home for market today. </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">You’ll see how easy it is create the look </span></b><b style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; line-height: 20px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">and feel buyers want. </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><b>    </b></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div style="font-style: italic;"></div></div></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span></div><div align="left" style="font-style: italic;"><div style="display: inline !important; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;"><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; font-size: small; line-height: 20px;"></span></i></i></span></span></span><br /><div style="font-style: italic;"></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;"></i></span></span></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #5b5b5b; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;"></i></span></span></span><br /><div style="font-style: italic;"></div></div><div style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span></div></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div>

How to Stage a Fireplace When It's Summertime

What better way to show off a fireplace in summer than filling it with mirrors, the way Eddie Ross has done?    Most home buyers are drawn t...

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