Beautiful Modern Contemporary House Elevation: Props

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Six of My Favorite Home Staging Props

<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/P1090315.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/P1090315.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>There are a few staging props that really earn their keep.  </i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Home staging that knocks the socks off buyers counts on many things: curb appeal, cleanliness, perceived value, move-in-readiness. <br /><br />But it’s often the details that make a home memorable.<br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">That’s why I’ve compiled this list of the home decor accessories that ought to be in any home stager’s bag of tricks. Consider them your dependable details that make a difference. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Sets of Books</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">While a bunch of books on a bookshelf can look splotchy and distracting, a set of matched volumes looks rich, coordinated and deliberate. <br /><br />Generously-sized books are great, and leather bound ones are especially classy. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/06/stage-your-home-with-books-heres-how.html#.UzRlZKI3Ndg" target="_blank">Books used as a staging accessory</a> let you convey a sense of who lives in the home – interesting, educated people. <br /><br />Buyers on home tours <i><b>do</b></i> browse book spines, so for this reason, stay away from controversial subjects or topics that aren’t mainstream (Chinese erotica, history of the occult…). Also avoid obviously dated sets like 1980’s World Book encyclopedias. But, don’t put out anything valuable or irreplaceable, either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">   </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Best source or stage-worthy volumes is at a local library sale. I recently helped sort books at my library’s annual sale and was surprised at the quality and selection of books – all topics and colors, just what a stager needs.</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><b>Bowl of Lemons</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I love seeing a glass bowl of lemons on a kitchen countertop or island. Whether you use a ceramic platter, a wooden bowl or a wicker basket -- the pretty effect is the same. <br /><br />Think of lemons as the default dining room centerpiece, the perfect prop for completing a staged beverage bar of glassware, or the easiest way to dress up a foyer tabletop. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">    </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">There are couple reasons why I rate lemons high for home staging. One is that nobody is tempted to try and eat them the way they would apples or pears. They’re clearly decorative. The other reason is that lemons represent freshness. They’re tangy and fragrant, and even if you’re staging with fake lemons, the message is the same: clean and fresh.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The only thing that adds more life to a room is plants. But I'm keeping my list to six!  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><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/P1090102-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1090102-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>All these lemons are fake. Who's to know? Yellow lemons seem to compliment any color scheme.</i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>  </i></span> </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Plush Towels</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">New towels are a must for dressing up a bath. Face it -- towels age and although they work just fine for everyday use, when you’re aiming for that luxurious, boutique hotel look, you want fat and fluffy new ones. I always suggest white ones unless the entire bathroom is white. White towels will always work in your next home. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Although not every stager will agree, I don’t have a problem with tying decorative ribbon or cording around a towel, to let people on a home tour know that they aren’t to be used, especially if it is open house day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Large Landscape Paintings</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">This prop might be a tad more difficult to locate and afford, but the results are dynamic. A landscape painting literally opens up a room. The most economical sources are the usual second hand places we all love (eBay, thrift stores, garage sales), but you can also buy budget-friendly new artwork that works fine. Or you can create DIY art suitable for staging. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Your landscape could be a beach, forest, city, mountain or rural scene. Make it match the mood of your home -- abstract watercolor you create yourself, one of your own photos blown up big and framed, a kitschy paint-by-numbers scene, a colorful travel poster, or a sophisticated black and white photograph. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Buy frugally and plan to spend more on the framing than on the art, because the framing is what puts art over the top. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/BonesteelTroutHalllivrm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/BonesteelTroutHalllivrm.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A landscape this large becomes the focal point of the room. Nothing wrong with that!</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">Your landscape needn't be complicated, detailed, professionally done, expensive, or even </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">include images of land. Seascapes are "landscapes."</span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">Photo: Bonesteel Taylor Hall.</span></i> </td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Matched Table Lamps</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/TwolampsTobiFarley-1.png" 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/TwolampsTobiFarley-1.png" width="432" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">This beautiful bedroom by Tobi Farley demonstrates</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">how important a set of tables lamps are for a balanced look.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>If you tour showhouses and study photos of professionally designed rooms, you’ll notice how often the savvy decorators who plan these rooms use pairs of lamps. <br /><br />Anytime a pair of anything is used as a decorating prop, there’s a sense of order and quality. Rooms done on a shoestring from castoffs lack the cohesiveness that twosomes add to a space.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Although you might be home staging on a shoestring, the last thing you want is to look like money’s a problem. That's an important point to remember! Buyers' perceptions of your financial<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> situation will influence the purchase price they offer you. Write that down! </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Look wealthy. Look generous. Look comfortable. Don't look needy or you'll attract "bottom feeders." <br /><br />A pair of table lamps in the bedroom or living room will help you pull off mismatched nightstands or side tables. <br /><br />Don’t approximate this look by using two lamps that resemble each other; they must be identical twins. <br /><br />The lamps should be placed close enough so that they are both visible in a glance, such as on either side of a couch or bed. Their shades should match, and they should both be on the same level. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Walk through your home to make sure you haven’t separated a matched pair of lamps, and then reunite them for staging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">   </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Plump Pillows</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span id="goog_1751948721"></span><span id="goog_1751948722"></span><span id="goog_572043644"></span><span id="goog_572043645"></span><span id="goog_1396375958"></span><span id="goog_1396375959"></span><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/LaurenLiesslivrm.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/LaurenLiesslivrm.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">This lovely arrangement by Laura Liess shows how having</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;"> matched pillows puts a finishing touch on the grouping. </span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Pillows are one of the absolute best ways to add another layer to a room’s decor. <br /><br />I recommend pillows in colors that flow seamlessly with the color scheme of the room rather than oft-touted pops of color. <br /><br />You can still have fun with geometrics, textural fabrics, dressmaker details, and animal prints. <br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">What to avoid: Cute sayings on pillows, pillows flattened by age, stiff pillows that don’t look comfortable, and an excess of pillows on any bed, sofa or chair. <br /><br />Pillows add the custom details that give a room some interest and make a room look finished. They also suggest hominess and comfort. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Takeaway</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">How does your staged home rate for having these essential decorating props? None of them are break-the-bank investments, yet they will all add value to your home and make it more inviting to people shopping for a new home. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you like these tips, check out my<a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html#.UzRkSqI3Ndg" target="_blank"> home staging eBooks.</a> They’re written to help you get a better price for your home on the market. At $5, they’re great investments. Guaranteed!<br /><br /></div>

Six of My Favorite Home Staging Props

There are a few staging props that really earn their keep. Home staging that knocks the socks off buyers counts on many things: curb appeal...

7:17 AM

Make This Festive Felt Wreath

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060869_zpsab596fad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060869_zpsab596fad.jpg" width="331" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">What’s not to love about a wreath? Like Santa himself, it’s round and plump and comes with interesting little surprises. You can hang a wreath on a wall or a door, or lay it flat on a table. Heck, you can even hook one on a chair, a garden gate, or a newel post. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The best ones are homemade. Try it. Let a wreath express the personality of your home – modern and glitzy, old fashioned and charming, historically accurate, or cutting edge creative. What’s your style? How can your wreath emphasize your home's special-ness?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Starting Point</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Years ago, it took me a few seasons of cranking out disappointing DIY wreaths before I realized, “It’s the base, stupid.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The way you begin the wreath is the most important element in its design. A wreath base needs to be a sturdy framework, and a good background that is handsome enough to stand alone. No skimpy grapevine circles or pine branches tied to a wire coat hanger. Give it some body.      </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">That’s why I love to use forms made of either foam or straw. Either one can be the start for this wreath made from strips of felt. It’s similar to the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/04/need-some-curb-appeal-dress-up-your.html" target="_blank">rag wreath I made for Spring</a>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Gather Supplies</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Here’s what you’ll need: </div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li>Wreath form</li><li>Felt</li><li>Ribbon</li><li>Decorative clusters </li></ul><div class="MsoNormal">The amount of felt you’ll need depends on the size of your wreath and how fluffy you want it to be. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">One thing’s for certain: it’s cheaper to purchase felt by the yard than by the “craft square.” I know your color selection will be limited because craft stores sell more felt colors than fabric stores sell. I wanted a white background for this Christmas or Hanukkah wreath.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I’ve also made felt wreaths using a combination of felt colors (see below). Felt is easy to work with because it’s so well behaved. It’s a “pressed” rather than “woven” fabric, so it doesn’t unravel and doesn’t need hemming. I chose to cut this version with pinking shears for added interest.<br /><br />Another thing is for certain: a wreath like this is a whole lot easier than the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/12/festive-staging-prop-extrodinaire-how.html" target="_blank">felt topiaries</a> I made two years ago.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Cut the white felt into strips that measure at least twice the circumference of your wreath form. Mine measured about 1.5 inches by 18 inches. </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-P1080361_zpsb71b71f1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080361_zpsb71b71f1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">If you don't have pinking shears, no problem. Your wreath will still look pretty.<br />These babies are fairly goof-proof.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Three Layers</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The first layer on this wreath is made of quilt batting. You don’t want any of the base material showing. I liked the fluffy white background in case there were any gaps between felt ties. The batting is rather snowlike, too. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">There’s no need to secure the batting. The felt ties will hold it in place. Begin by tying one piece of felt, locating the knot slightly off center. Tie the next one snug up close to the first, with the knot slightly off center in the opposite direction. Alternating between these two knot positions makes the wreath look fuller. <br /><br />This is the kind of work you can do while you watch your favorite Christmas movie. I doubt that you can mess it up, and if you do, the knot tying is reversible and tweak-able.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></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-P1080349_zps662a2d3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080349_zps662a2d3a.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Whether your base is straw or foam, covering it with a background material<br />is always a good start towards producing a really finished look. However, if your base is </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">a color similar to your felt and your ties are close together, a covering may be optional.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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-P1080351_zpse79f1e9b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080351_zpse79f1e9b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Off-set each knot so that they don't line up around the center of the wreath.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Place the Bow</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Once you’ve gone around the full wreath circle with felt ties, tie on a ribbon. You can make one simple loop for hanging, or tie a single bow, or a full multi-loop bow. I like the <a href="http://www.addicted2decorating.com/how-to-tie-a-perfect-bow.html" target="_blank">bow tying tutorial Kristi gave</a> on her site, Addicted 2 Decorating. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060878_zpsa6ce2c06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060878_zpsa6ce2c06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060877_zps9d27307d.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-P1060877_zps9d27307d.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">I always place one big bow before adding everything else, even though I know some designers add the bow last. I figure it's the focal point, so why tack  it on like an afterthought?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I prefer wired ribbon over grosgrain or satin ones because the wired edges make it look perky and stay perky.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Next, I add decorative picks that I’ve either made myself or bought. Here's your chance to get as quirky, sophisticated, artsy, or funky as you like. Just remember that you don't want to add anything too valuable or too distracting. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">About Picks</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I wrote last winter about <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/11/making-greenery-wreath-for-christmas.html" target="_blank">how to wire a pick </a>with natural trimmings. Wooden picks aren’t the best way to go with felt wreaths because they don’t pierce the felt. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Instead, you can use a variety of other methods for those finishing details. You can sew on decorations (like smaller bows, buttons, ornaments, and jewelry). I like the sewing method when I plan to dis-assemble and reclaim the decorations later. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I like to hot glue decorations like tiny toys and silk flowers onto the felt wreath when I know the wreath won’t be recycled. If you glue and want to recycle the wreath for another seasonal holiday, you can just remove the felt strip that has chunks of glue on it, and go on from there. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Thirdly, you can use straight dressmaker pins to attach decorations to the felt wreath. This method makes sense when the attachments are lightweight and would show glue or stitches. Pins hold firmly in foam, but not so well in straw. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The blue and white winter wreath I made this year features silver ornaments and glittery snowflakes that I stitched on, pine cones and magnolia cones that I painted and glued on, and bows that I pinned on.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Finally, use scissors to give your wreath a little styling, just the way your hair stylist finishes your haircut. Snip, fluff, and you’re done.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080150_zpscf053f96.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080150_zpscf053f96.jpg" width="558" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Hang It Up</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Because felt isn’t exactly all-weather fabric, if you want to use this wreath outdoors, it needs to be in a protected area, like a porch, or on a door with a wide overhang above it.  I usually hang it on a wide plastic or metal hook, but if you are hanging it on a small nail, you might want to make a loop of fishing line on the wreath. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Hang your wreath where it will call attention to a desirable feature of your home, or perhaps dress up an empty area in a foyer or hallway, or even a decluttered bathroom. <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-P1080375_zpsde9b9496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080375_zpsde9b9496.jpg" width="482" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I like to randomly mix three shades of green for a felt wreath <br />that looks like holly. Sort of. The "berries" are wooden beads sewn on.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><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-P1080369_zps5fae862e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080369_zps5fae862e.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>If you have a  rotary cutter, a cutting mat, and a metal T-square, cutting felt strips </i><br /><i>for wreaths goes lickety split. These strips were cut from 9- x 12-inch felt squares.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Given a choice I’ll choose a wreath over a garland, banner, or other holiday dress-up. Felt wreaths and rag wreaths are especially easy, economical, and fun to make. That’s the kind of project that calls out to me. You too?  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Remember that a staged home – complete with a seasonal wreath welcoming visitors and prospective buyers – looks like a loved home, a well-maintained home. You can get more house-selling tips in 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 class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">I hope you’ll try your hand at one of these hardy, all-purpose wreaths. If so, please share your results with us here in the comments, or on our Facebook Group Page. </div>

Make This Festive Felt Wreath

What’s not to love about a wreath? Like Santa himself, it’s round and plump and comes with interesting little surprises. You can hang a wrea...

1:00 PM

Questions and Answers About How to Stage

<div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060752_zps2b012a22.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-P1060752_zps2b012a22.jpg" width="452" /></a></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> I’m trying to stage an empty house. I have enough furniture and it’s looking good. My question is what do I do in the closets?<br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>I would leave closets empty because they look bigger. But not entirely empty. I would add a few props to dress them up and give a little personality.<br /><br />In a bedroom closet I would place some pretty boxes on the shelves. In a linen closet I would stack a few fluffy towels, and perhaps a folded blanket. In a coat closet, I would add some wooden or <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/07/make-your-closets-memorable-to-buyers.html" target="_blank">padded hangers.</a>     </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">These little things will help buyers on tour remember your house as the one with attractive closets, where people (that's you!) live clean, enviable lives. Buyers buy the lifestyle when they buy the house, and women particularly are interested in closets. So, stage them to look gal-friendly. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Remember to clean any light fixtures in the closets and to maximize the wattage.      </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> We’re planning to sell our home in a year. I know there are things I should be doing now, but I don’t know where to start. Any advice?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A:</span></b> Start by getting rid of things you don’t love or need. Second, it’s not too early to get a home inspection so you’ll know what needs repairs. Then, educate yourself about the local real estate market and maybe interview some realtors. You should also get current about about <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/02/how-to-make-your-home-look-new.html" target="_blank">decorating trends</a> and what not to do so when you’re ready to stage you’ll be up-to-date.<br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><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-P1060749_zpsc91a6cb0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060749_zpsc91a6cb0.jpg" width="516" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Yes or no to mini blinds? When you don't want to spring for the <br />the pricier versions, how can you make them work for staging?    </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></b> Should I leave mini blinds in my windows when staging? I know they aren’t super-stylish, but I still like them for light control and privacy.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A:</span></b> I’m with you on the mini blinds, because they are inexpensive and functional. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">You could leave them up but layer a window treatment over them, one that lets you cover them to soften the look. Just sheers might look good, or draperies that you open every day when you want sunlight entering the room. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Remember that buyers respond well to bright rooms, so make sure both the blinds and any draperies are open wide when you expect a showing.<br /><br />And if your mini blinds are showing signs of age, replace them with new ones. <br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q: </span></b>The rooms on one side of my home are dark, even though they have enough windows. What can I do to make these rooms look brighter? I’ve already done what I can with lamps and overhead lights.</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>If the walls aren’t a light color, can you repaint them? Can you add a large mirror to each room? Can you remove lower limbs from trees that might be creating too much shade? Can you make your <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/01/no-sew-window-treatments-why-stitch.html" target="_blank">window treatments</a> cover less of the window opening? Can you remove or <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/painting-furniture-dont-make-these.html" target="_blank">paint any dark pieces of furniture</a> that might be soaking up light?<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-ancestraloilpainting_zps3edbc068.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-ancestraloilpainting_zps3edbc068.jpg" width="496" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"><i>Make a portrait part of the room's decor instead of its <br />focal point. In this photo by Jeffrey Hirsch, costume designer <br />William Ivey Long, clustered attractive props and furniture near <br />the framed art instead of isolating it on a blank wall.   </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Q: </span></b>I have your eBook so I know that when staging you suggest avoiding artwork with faces in favor of landscapes, abstracts, and still lifes. I have a large painting of my great, great grandmother. I think it looks cool. Should I store it away when I list my house? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">A: </span></b>I agree, ancestral portraits <b><i>are</i></b> cool! Even ones that aren’t your own relatives add a certain dignity or importance to a room. I’d definitely leave it in place, as long as it isn’t the focal point of the room. How about somewhere unexpected, like in a hallway, bedroom, or on a stairwell?<br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal">That said, some old portraits look a little creepy or just too engaging to be used in a staged room. If your ancestor appears sad, mad, or stares out of the canvas in such a way that makes visitors talk about the art rather than your house, store the painting. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I hope your great, great grandmother brings you good luck selling your home!  </div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Any Questions?</span></b> Do you have any problems about your DIY home staging? If my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBooks</a> don't solve them, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/contact.html" target="_blank">email me your question</a> and I'll try to solve your home staging dilemma.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">  </div></div><a href="http://www.cubesmart.com/blog/weekly-roundup-best-content-on-the-web-3/"><img src="http://www.cubesmart.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/BestOf_Nov2013_horiz.png" /></a>

Questions and Answers About How to Stage

Q: I’m trying to stage an empty house. I have enough furniture and it’s looking good. My question is what do I do in the closets? A: I woul...

2:00 AM

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...

2:00 AM

DIY Craft Project: Upcycled Tin Tray

DIY Craft Project: Upcycled Tin Tray

I used my DIY autumn-themed tray to anchor a group of props suggesting a small beverage center. To be safe, I stage with empty liquor bottle...

2:00 AM

Five Rules for Staging a Mantel

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 ...

2:00 AM

How to Make Patterns Work for Your Home Staging

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></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/P1060363_zps322fb8da.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/P1060363_zps322fb8da.jpg" width="286" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Pattern mixing 101: Keep it simple.<br />This place setting is just squiggles and stripes, <br />done in members of the blue family </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Every staged home runs the risk of looking plain vanilla ho hum ordinary.<br /><br />But with the clever injection of some texture and pattern, your DIY staging will hit the mark and win the hearts of buyers.<br /><br />Texture mixing is pretty simple. Just incorporate a variety of surface treatments and material -- shiny metals, rusted metals, nubby fabrics, silky fabrics, furry fabrics, smooth woods, distressed woods...You really can't overload textural interest unless you're overloading colors as well.<br /><br />But <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/decorating-with-patterns-101.html" target="_blank">pattern mixing</a> is a little trickier. You <i><b>can </b></i>overload patterns.<br /><br />Also, when you combine patterns for home staging, it's not the same as mixing patterns for personal decorating. <br /><br />I'm here to help. Here are a few simple guidelines specifically geared to home staging.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Color Counts </span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Keep the color palette of your textile prints simple. Limit yourself to two or three colors per room. The trend now is towards more colorful rooms, more saturated colors, more unusual colors. Don't go there. Play it safe with colors that any home buyer could relate to. <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/P1060357_zps934fb109.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/P1060357_zps934fb109.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A bed-in-a-bag and a beagle. She loves to<br />make a nest in my co-ordinated <br />Waverly fabrics purchased 10 years ago.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Choose neutrals and pastels that are not distractions on a home tour. Your pattern colors should pick up some of the neutral colors in the room. Choose either clear hues or muddy hues. Choose either intense colors or muted <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/03/pastel-colors-good-or-bad-for-staging.html" target="_blank">pastels</a>, not both.<br /><br />Determine the undertones in whatever colors you use. Do they tend toward yellows or pinks or greens or greys? When in doubt, match your colors to a paint chip and ask at the paint store what the undertones are. They have the formula and know the pigments that make up the color, so they can identify the undertones for you. They'll do this even if you are not buying paint.<br /><br />One goof-proof way to mix patterns is to buy fabrics bundled by a professional decorator. Bed-in-a-bag is an example. Retail outlets and manufacturers deliberately coordinate things like table linens, bath towels, and kitchen textiles to make it easy for you and to sell you more of their stuff. Buy their sets or just imitate the catalog and store displays.<br /><br />Another way to be sure your patterns talk to each other and don't take over the room is to base your patterns on a single color. For example, I'm picturing a room with creamy draperies edged in pale yellow, yellow floral and chevron stripped pillows, and a yellow gingham upholstered chair.   <br /><br />One of my Pinterest Boards shows <a href="http://pinterest.com/barbarapilcher/colors-for-a-staged-home/" target="_blank">color schemes appropriate for a staged home</a>. Visit there for inspiration and ideas when you're choosing colors.<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/hgtvbedrm_zps18b29c25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/hgtvbedrm_zps18b29c25.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Repetition holds this assortment of fabric patterns together. We see a rich red and <br />a faded red. The chain motif trimming the pillows repeats the curves of the <br />paisley pillows. The polka dot pillow imitates the tufted chenille bedspread.<br />And the gold in the pillows repeats the gold of the brass bed.  Photo: BHG.</i></span></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/pillows_zps15bffb91.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pillows_zps15bffb91.jpg" width="556" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A charming, contemporary toile in teal and a mandala-like design <br />in orange compliment each other beautifully. These draperies don't strike me <br />as too matchy at all!  Photo: Woman's Day.</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/livingrm_zpsb82999f5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/livingrm_zpsb82999f5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">You can't go wrong with the classic combo of floral (carpeting), plaid or check (chairs) <br />and a stripe (draperies). Photo: Myhomeideas.com, by Erica Georges Dines.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Scale is All About Size, Style, and Placement</span></b><br /><br />Mix large patterns with small patterns and something in between. This kind of mixing creates a finished, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/01/five-simple-ways-to-add-style-to-your.html" target="_blank">stylish</a>, interesting look. Mix angular geometrics with curvy florals. Mix ombre, ikat, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/ten-ways-to-rock-global-look.html" target="_blank">ethnic,</a> and batik prints and with crisp modern designs. These kinds of juxtapositions delight the eye and bring a room to life. <br /><br />Spread your patterned pieces around the room, as well. If all your patterns are on <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/easy-way-to-make-your-own-decorator.html" target="_blank">pillows</a> clustered on one couch and the rest of the room is showing solid colors, there's an imbalance. Pattern placement keeps the eye moving, and that's what you want. <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/blogMixingprints_zps522efcd7.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/blogMixingprints_zps522efcd7.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A lovely collection of subdued blues. The bedspread is <br /> a <a href="http://apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-make-a-b-138526" target="_blank">block print using a rubber welcome mat</a>.  Photo: Leah Moss</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Carry swatches of fabric and paint chips with you when you are staging your home. The mind does not remember colors the way it does numbers and facts. Fabrics really need to be seen in 3-D next to each other for you to judge their likeability.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Restraint Rules the Day</span></b><br /><br />Limit your pattern selections and color choices to three. Sounds boring? Sure. Looks boring? Not necessarily! An uncluttered home looks <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/02/how-to-make-your-home-look-new.html" target="_blank">new</a> and clean.<br /><br />Remember that you can repeat the patterns in more than one place. A striped panel in the draperies can be repeated on a tablerunner. That's not matchy-matchy. That's just cross pollination.<br /><br />One strategy to make a room look more intentionally designed than thrown together is to use similar or identical trims on upholstered pieces, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/listen-up-its-easy-to-make-no-sew.html" target="_blank">window treatments</a>, lamp shades, pillows, and other accessories. Your trim could be something like white cording, a fuzzy fringe, colorful rick rack, gold braiding or patterned ribbon.   <br /><br />Tone down the size of bold contrast patterns. This one trick will help keep your rooms looking comfortable and tasteful. If you're staging a really large room, you'll need some large textile designs, but they can be composed of subtle color variations.<br /><br />So, don't be afraid of printed textiles. They can help you sell your house! There's plenty of solid color in most rooms to balance a selection of prints and patterns. Just jump in, and follow my guidelines for mixing and matching prints for home staging.<br /><br />If you want more tips to stage your own home, be sure to 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 Top Dollar.</i> It will teach you to stage like a pro!<br /><br />

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