How to Use Today's Trendy Grey and Yellow Palette

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/bedbhg_zpsc68c355c.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/bedbhg_zpsc68c355c.jpg" width="480" /></a>Looking for a crowd-pleasing color combo that looks clean and contemporary to make your home attractive to buyers? I vote for grey and yellow.<br /><br />I'll admit that when -- just a couple years ago -- I started seeing greys in photo spreads and hearing greys talked about as the new neutral, I was all, no way! <br /><br />Now, I see what a workhorse greys can be. I thought greys would be depressing, dark and dinghy. Not so. They are chic and soothing. They have many variations, from cool and clear, to muddy and warm, and everything in between. They're easy to combine with all kinds of other colors, but do well on their own.<br /><br />Grey is the up-to-the-moment decorating darling color now, and bound to hold that position for a years to come. Yellow is the current companion that makes it look new. Yellow is always in <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/01/five-simple-ways-to-add-style-to-your.html" target="_blank">style</a>.<br /><br />In other words, you can't go wrong with this twosome as long as --<br /><ul><li>You keep the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/03/pastel-colors-good-or-bad-for-staging.html" target="_blank">colors on the lighter side</a>. </li><li>The colors in one room flow with the colors in adjoining rooms.</li><li>There are no jarring accent colors.</li><li>The greys you choose are all in the same <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/how-to-choose-paint-color-easy-way.html" target="_blank">color family</a>. The same for the yellows. </li></ul><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;">The Trick to Choosing a Great Grey: Undertones</span></b></div><div><br /></div><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/chairwtwopatterns_zps8e7fbbc1.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/chairwtwopatterns_zps8e7fbbc1.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Shopping for fabrics, drapes, linens, upholstered <br />pieces, lamps, or pillows? You'll have plenty of <br />grey and yellow options this season. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>One advantage to painting with greys is that they cover well. That's why many primers are tinted grey.<br /><br />Whereas some colors, particularly yellows and reds, often require two coats to completely mask a previous paint color, greys absorb light and so they mask well.<br /><br />Whether you're <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/painting-furniture-dont-make-these.html" target="_blank">painting furniture</a> or walls, you can save time and money by going with grey. But how do you determine the right grey when you're starting from scratch?  </div><div><br /></div><div>To help you decide, look at the darkest version of any grey on the color strip at the paint store. It will help you see what the undertones are.<br /><br />For example, Sherwin Williams "Wallflower" is almost lilac, but you might not notice that unless you look at the other end of the same strip and see the saturated maroon chip. Their "Silver Strand" has olive brown undertones, which is apparent when you look at the dark end of the color strip. If you're looking for a bluish grey, you'll find it at on the strip that has navy colors on the dark side, and greys named "Icy," and "Solitude" on the same strip. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once you have a color grey you want to use, whether you are painting with it or just using it to match something like fabric, previously <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/10/painted-furniture-home-stagings-friend.html" target="_blank">painted furniture</a>, carpeting or tile, carry the paint chip with you as a sample when you are making your home staging decorating decisions. The other greys in the room needn't match, but they should share the same undertone.  </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/hgtvbath_zps3f006d65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="466" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/hgtvbath_zps3f006d65.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">If you have some existing fixtures that are grey, whether it's tiles, carpeting, appliances,<br />or upholstered pieces, finding the right shade of yellow will update them. Photo: hgtv.</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/livrmluckypinkelephants_zps0b29e323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/livrmluckypinkelephants_zps0b29e323.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A soft grey like this is an ideal color choice for home staging.</span></i> <i><span style="font-size: small;">The </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">yellow accents here add texture and warmth. Photo: Luckypinkelephants.  </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/mcmlivrmplummersfurniture_zpse3df7d9a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/mcmlivrmplummersfurniture_zpse3df7d9a.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 new grey and yellow upholstered pieces like these, you do know that<br />you can slipcover or <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/04/how-to-beautify-ugly-microfiber-chair.html" target="_blank">paint upholstered pieces</a>, right? Photo: Plummers Furniture. </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/Blog-GreyandyellowBHGbdrm_zps923ac255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/Blog-GreyandyellowBHGbdrm_zps923ac255.jpg" width="444" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Black and white are perfect foils for a grey and yellow room. They add<br />a certain crispness to the space. This photo and top two photos: bhg. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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/livrmhomesdirect_zps415f58a9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/livrmhomesdirect_zps415f58a9.jpg" width="474" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">If you don't want to commit to an all-over gray and yellow color palette, <br />you can limit your yellow to frugal or dispensable accessories. The grey<br />furnishings will be your neutral pieces in the future. Photo: DirectHomes.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>The colors you choose for decorating your home can make or break your home staging  Greys mixed with yellows give you a safe route that's on trend and versatile. <br /><br />For much more advice on colors, accessories, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/08/how-to-arrange-furniture-most-common.html" target="_blank">furniture arrangement</a>, cleaning, decluttering, landscaping, and other projects for staging your own home, 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 for  Top Dollar. </i>It comes with my money back guarantee. </div>

How to Use Today's Trendy Grey and Yellow Palette

Looking for a crowd-pleasing color combo that looks clean and contemporary to make your home attractive to buyers? I vote for grey and yello...

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Get the Look for Less: Smart Shopping

<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-P1040546_zps8d48b24a.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-P1040546_zps8d48b24a.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Drop cloths for cushion covers? Why not?</span></i>   </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="MsoNormal">I’m not fond of shopping for the sake of shopping. I love to score a deal, but I don’t like to spend time and energy browsing. So, these are my favorite haunts for scoring quick deals.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Paint Stores</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I always tell people to buy paint at the paint store, not a big box outlet or little hardware store. And I have good reasons.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">First, the people at paint stores are trained by the paint company. They know paint. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">They know the painting supplies that solve problems and make painting projects go easier. They can answer your questions, and ask you the right questions to make recommendations. They’re less likely to make a mistake with mixing and labeling your paint.<br /><br />They are the Paint People! Why mess around with minimum wage trainees elsewhere? Paint store staff will have you in and out with everything you need, at the best prices. Buying cheap paint is counterproductive, even when you are selling your home.<br /><div class="MsoNormal"></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Secondly, besides the obvious -- paint, brushes, masking tape, and other supplies --you can also buy <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/08/painting-your-home-heres-advice-about.html" target="_blank">dropcloths</a> at the paint stores. Dropcloths are the cheapest source for wide fabric suitable for slipcovers and draperies. I recently covered seat and back cushions for two large wicker chairs (see above photo) and a matching love seat for $27 worth of fabric from Sherwin Williams. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Paint stores are also my favorite source for discontinued, free, wallpaper sample books. You can use these for all kinds of craft projects like drawer liners, framed art, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/06/99-centtray-makeover.html" target="_blank">trays</a>, book covers, and <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/05/make-your-own-decorative-vases-for-free.html" target="_blank">DIY vases</a>.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Dollar Stores</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I’ve switched my shopping habits over to the dollar store for cleaning supplies and paper goods. And you can’t beat their prices for glassware, dishware, and placemats for <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/heres-how-to-set-table-in-your-staged.html" target="_blank">staging your dining room table</a>. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://dollarstorecrafts.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/linen-closet-before-and-after-580x523.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://dollarstorecrafts.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/linen-closet-before-and-after-580x523.png" width="400" /></a></div>You can also leave with cheap candles (although I don’t like to burn these cheaper candles because they will put soot in the air), ribbon, shower curtains, light bulbs, curtain rods, picture frames, miniblinds, faux greenery, closet and pantry organizing supplies, pillows and other bedding, coat hangers, vases, mirrors, and even discounted hardcover coffee table books.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you have doubts about the value of these discount chains for crafting supplies and even home staging ideas, check out these posts about a <a href="http://www.733blog.com/2012/08/linen-closet-scary-situation.html" target="_blank">$6 linen closet makeover</a>, and other decor ideas  at a site called <a href="http://dollarstorecrafts.com/find-projects/decor/" target="_blank">Dollar Store Crafts</a>. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Craft Stores</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I’m lumping Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Joann, Hancock Fabrics, A.C. Moore, and any local fabric store into this category. Usually, these stores are staffed with dedicated crafters, florists, and seamstresses who are happy and qualified to assist you. They know the right kind of glue, the correct amount of yardage, and the perfect combination of <span id="goog_1641577729"></span><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/05/seven-secrets-to-making-silk-plants-and.html" target="_blank">silk flowers</a><span id="goog_1641577730"></span>. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Most of these chains have discount programs. I never go to Michael’s without a coupon! Always ask, “Is there a coupon that’s good for today?”  or “Is there any discount available today?”  Often the cashier will scan a register coupon even if you don’t have one in your sweaty little palm.  Or it might be the day of the week that military, or anyone over 50, gets 10% discount. But you don’t get it if you don’t ask. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Craft stores are ideal for inspiration and ideas you can knock off, whether it’s a centerpiece, a lampshade, a wreath, a color scheme, <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/01/no-sew-window-treatments-why-stitch.html" target="_blank">window treatments</a>, <span id="goog_82684288"></span><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/easy-way-to-make-your-own-decorator.html" target="_blank">pillows</a><span id="goog_82684289"></span>, or floral arrangements. Soak up what the pros are doing and put your personal spin on it. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><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-P1040568_zps33064548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="414" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1040568_zps33064548.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">   Often all it takes to transform an ordinary room into a beautiful one is a floral arrangement </span></i></div><i><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">  or silk greenery. Good quality faux plants are investment pieces that will look super for years.</span></i></div></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Other Budget-Friendly Sources</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">All of us thrifty home stagers love <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/04/secrets-to-successful-thrifting.html" target="_blank">second hand shops, thrift stores, garage sales</a>, auctions, and even dumpsters for steals. Don’t forget friends and relatives who want to get rid of excess furniture, as well as your own attic, basement, garage, or backyard for <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/finishing-touches-department-where-to.html" target="_blank">things that can up-cycled</a>as part of your staging. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">And of course, there’s Craigslist, eBay, and other online sources. But today I’m focusing on fast shopping that delivers what you need without a lot of searching, negotiating, waiting, or repairing.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Knowing where to shop for home staging essentials stretches your budget and <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/01/how-to-get-it-all-done-and-still-stay.html" target="_blank">helps you manage your time better</a>. Use this list, and build on it by adding the best quick and cheap shopping sties in your own area.<br /><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To get more tips on staging your own home to sell it, 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>. It’s a 150-page illustrated pdf that will save you money when you stage, and make money when you sell! I guarantee you’ll be pleased or I will give you your money back.  </div>

Get the Look for Less: Smart Shopping

Drop cloths for cushion covers? Why not?    I’m not fond of shopping for the sake of shopping. I love to score a deal, but I don’t like to ...

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Five Tricks Professional Stagers Use

<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://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2008/08/Sparrow.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2008/08/Sparrow.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" width="472" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Plants are one of the most important props that a stager needs. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Selling your home can be stressful. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">It's one of the big transitions in life, and there are so many details to take care of. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">But staging your own home needn't be something to stress and obsess about. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To help you get up to speed with staging, I've collected some of the best sure-fire secrets of the homestaging trade.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">My favorite way to learn a new skill, whether it's knitting or Qi Gong or batik printing (something I am working on for an upcoming project) is to look at what the experts do, then follow their lead.<br /><br />No one learns in a vacuum.<br /><br />Why learn staging by making mistakes or looking at examples of what doesn't work? You have just one chance to make a first impression on buyers.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">So, here are my favorite professional shortcuts to success that will be easy for you to follow. Ready, set, go! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">1. Paint All Your Walls One Friendly Color</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Stagers call friendly colors the ones that most people like. Most people feel comfortable around warm whites and pale neutrals. Avoiding strong colors lets people touring your home relax and get a sense of the room, without the distraction of saturated or unusual colors.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">It also lets them know they can probably move in without having to paint the walls.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Unwise wall colors to use when staging? Purples, deep red, Pepto Bismol pinks, black, chocolate, or dark greens. I've already written about my own <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/how-to-choose-paint-color.html" target="_blank">method for choosing a paint color</a>.<br /><br />Why one color? Because one color will unify your house, so that rooms "talk to each other." It will also make the house feel newer and larger. And it will save you money on paint, and save you time when you have to touch up. One color. Everywhere.<br /><br />If one color just doesn't work with existing fixtures (maybe you have a fireplace with yellow <a href="http://www.mariakillam.com/category/understanding-undertones" target="_blank">undertones </a> in the living room, and countertops with pink undertones in the bathroom) chances are you can find two colors that still "talk to each other." </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2006/10/100034202.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/2006/10/100034202.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><i>Forget the bad rap neutrals get for being boring. You want benign colors that offend no one. </i></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><i>You want colors that will unify all your furnishings. You want colors that anyone can live with,</i></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><i>at least temporarily. No one would call this entranceway boring. Photo: BHG</i></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Start with Some Matched Furniture Sets</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I know, I know. Matchy-matchy is passe. All the decorators, the shelter mags and bloggers are raving about mismatched and eclectic furnishings. I’ve even written and blogged about <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/05/yes-you-can-stage-with-mix-of-furniture.html" target="_blank">how an assortment of styles works well in the staged home. </a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">But, darn it, there are times when a couple of perfectly matched pieces of upholstered furniture in a living room that’s otherwise a jumble of assorted furniture styles, just pulls everything together and elevates the perceived value of the room. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you don’t own matched furniture, often <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/02/slipcovering-101-learn-from-my-mistakes.html" target="_blank">slipcovering</a>, reupholstering or <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/painting-furniture-dont-make-these.html" target="_blank">painting</a> some existing pieces works the same magic. Adding sets of lamps, vases, or framed art also works. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2012/01/101503816.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="533" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2012/01/101503816.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>It's not just the upholstered chairs that match in this living room. The tables and pillows are </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>pairs as well. A matched set of prints on the wall reinforces the idea of a cohesive, </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>planned design, rather than just a collection of furniture in one room. Photo: BHG  </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Mix in Some Stuff That Shines</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Every room needs a shot of shine. Mirrors and glass fill the bill. These reflective surfaces bring to any staged room more light, more space, and more upscale glamour. Since mirrors bounce back whatever is before them, they create the illusion of larger, more open areas. Make sure they're reflecting something pretty!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/08/tables-with-glass-tops-home-stagers.html" target="_blank">Glass topped tables</a> show more of the floor, so a room appears bigger. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Do a walk-through and check your home for furnishings that add some gloss, some glimmer. It could be mirrored picture frames, mercury glass on the mantel, a glitzy chandelier, or a Lucite table. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/10/101517316.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/2011/10/101517316.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><i>A grouping of small mirrors in wooden frames was all it took to add some sparkle to this </i></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><i>dining area. The mirrors act like windows to create the sense of openness. Photo: BHG  </i></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">4. Make Those Window Look Tall and Wide</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Although the simplest way to hang curtains and draperies is to place a tension rod inside a window casing, that’s not always the most flattering treatment. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Professional stagers know the bigger the windows, the more interesting and generous a home feels. So, mount your hardware high on the wall and away from the sides of the window. Screwing hardware to the window trim makes holes that are difficult to fix with putty and paint. Holes in the wall are way easier to repair.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Don’t want to mess up your walls? Then, consider the nifty brackets <a href="http://www.readyhang.com/home" target="_blank">Ready Hang</a> sells. They clamp onto the window trim, and elevate the rod above the window opening without putting any holes in the wall. So clever!<br /><br />Exceptions to the rule? Historic homes where you want to show off architectural details around a window. Or ultra modern spaces where you want the minimalist look of unadorned glass. Or a small room with a small window where small is part of the charm and large window treatments would dwarf the space.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/10/101398512.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/2011/10/101398512.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>Big, beautiful windows become the room's focal point when dressed like this -- </i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>with plenty of fabric surrounding them. Imagine this room with skimpier draperies,</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i>and you'll see how important <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/01/no-sew-window-treatments-why-stitch.html" target="_blank">window treatments </a>are. Photo: BHG  </i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">5. Freshen Up With Greenery and Blooms</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Real ones or silk ones, the debate goes on. But one thing’s for certain: plants add a certain <i>je-ne-sais-quoi.</i> Ya just gotta have ‘em! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I lean towards silk plants as long as they are good quality and not cheap cemetery-style blossoms.  Other stagers swear by orchids. I don’t like clients to have to care for plants. There are <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/05/seven-secrets-to-making-silk-plants-and.html" target="_blank">ways to make silk plants look like real plants.</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">And I think that, except for Open House Day, cut flowers just don’t make any sense in a staged home. They require too much attention and don’t last long enough for me. If you have an unlimited floral budget or an abundant cutting garden of your own, maybe it’s possible. Otherwise, silks to the rescue!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2010/11/101345335.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2010/11/101345335.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" width="575" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><i>There's always room for some greenery or flowers. At least, there should be! </i></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><i>Silk plants and flowers are easy to care for, look terrific, don't offend the scent-sensitive,</i></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p><i>and you can take them with you when you move. Photo here and at top: BHG </i></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p><i>  </i></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">The Wrap:</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Once you’ve decluttered and cleaned, take some time to run down this list of five steps the pros know. These are the methods decorators and stagers use daily to get homes sold! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to stage your home. Tricks like these and my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast For Top Dollar</i>, will make it easy to stage a home that buyers want. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>

Five Tricks Professional Stagers Use

Plants are one of the most important props that a stager needs.  Selling your home can be stressful.  It's one of the big transitions in...

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Slipcovering 101: Learn From My Mistakes

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></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/homestaging/IMG_2936.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/homestaging/IMG_2936.jpg" width="310" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">New fabric revived my old chairs. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Home on the market, and upholstery looking old? It's time to bring fabric to the rescue.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">My two wicker chairs</span></b> desperately needed updating. I was tired of their dreary, stiff, brownish-red slipcovers and uncomfortable seats.<br /><br />I wanted something light and lively, and I already owned the perfect fabric. It was the same yardage I used in my <span id="goog_538565877"></span><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/11/faking-bedroom-part-2-diy-bedskirt.html">tutorial to construct a fake bed and bedskirt for bedroom staging.</a><span id="goog_538565878"></span><span id="goog_2005535085"></span><span id="goog_2005535086"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a><br /><br />I'm not adverse to making mistakes, as long as I can learn from them. What I learned when I sewed these slips was "Think ahead," and, "Take your time."<br /><br />You would think I already knew these rules! What can I say except, "Impatience took over my mind."<br /><br />The cushions look okay, but they could look better. Specifically, here's what I did wrong.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Mistake One</span></b>. Since each seat cushion was square, I cut out two squares of fabric for each, sewed these together, then squared off the corners.  I didn't realize that the front seam on the seat didn't have to be a seam at all. I could have simply wrapped the yardage around the front of the foam cushion, and sewn three seams.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The best upholstery and slipcovers have matched patterns where seams join. I could have had this seamless, custom look, but I blew it by not thinking ahead.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Mistake Number Two</span></b>. By cutting out just two panels of fabric and placing the seam midway on the sides of the cushion instead of on the edges, my slips look like they might have been purchased  ready-made instead of custom-fitted. Had I cut side pieces, the look would have been classier.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Mistake Number Three.</span></b> Another oops I made was to not wrap the foam cushion in a layer of synthetic batting. Batting softens the hard edge look of a square of foam. I've used this method before to make cushions that look both more professional and more comfortable.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBMimG79fAjyh56Fhhfeg_-ti2kRgOjlGa8uf5fdW4d_IRhkFqVhSP9-ZjTAGD8zWU9ClV87dLrlX7ZfhLRUzRPK3ggGJfAVQnXT5eBjAzpqAVdf-cB6gp6Qqkgf9hlBqr2T0wm932l5J/s640/IMG_5029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBMimG79fAjyh56Fhhfeg_-ti2kRgOjlGa8uf5fdW4d_IRhkFqVhSP9-ZjTAGD8zWU9ClV87dLrlX7ZfhLRUzRPK3ggGJfAVQnXT5eBjAzpqAVdf-cB6gp6Qqkgf9hlBqr2T0wm932l5J/s640/IMG_5029.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Mistake Number Four.</span></b> Rushing also meant that I did not take time to add piping. Skipping the steps that would require me to buy or make piping and sew it into the seams meant forgoing a custom look.<br /><br />Whether it matches or contrasts, piping always makes any slipcover, pillow, cushion, or upholstery look crisp, finished, and high end.<br /><br />The beautiful chair pictured on the left was expertly and lovingly upholstered by Little Miss Penny Wenny, and she <a href="http://littlemisspennywenny.blogspot.com/2011/04/chevron-chair.html">blogged about it</a> on her site last April.<br /><br />Notice that the chevron pattern matches as it rolls over the upholstery. Notice that she's incorporated self-piping along the seam lines, some of it double. Miss Penny Wenny really knows her stuff!<br /><br />Although this chair is upholstered, not slipcovered, the same rules apply. Attention to details make a difference. Follow her example, not mine.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Takeaway:</span></b> I hope next time I sew slipcovers, I'll take my time and think ahead. Meanwhile, I still like the new look my wicker chairs have. And, hey, it takes humility to admit your mistakes in blogland. To my credit, I did replace the worn-out fiberfill stuffing with new foam cushions. Much more comfortable!<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/homestaging/wickerchairafter-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/wickerchairafter-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The red fabric had lived its best days, but I love my orange swirly fabric.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Need help sewing slipcovers? Download my friend Kristi's <a href="http://www.pinkandpolkadot.net/p/lazy-girls-guide-to-custom-slipcovers.html">Lazy Girl's Guide to Custom Slipcovers</a> at her blog, Pink and Polk Dot, where he tagline reads, "Confessions of a Slipaholic."<br /><br />Need help staging your home on the market? I can help you decide what to spruce up, what to clean, how to get organized, what to get rid of, how to update and refresh what you own, and so much more. Download 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><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://farm6.static.flickr.com/5012/5424788835_54f8e5b8e7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5012/5424788835_54f8e5b8e7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Here's an example of the transformations Kristi creates. Notice the self piping and cute pleats.</span></i> </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></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>

Slipcovering 101: Learn From My Mistakes

New fabric revived my old chairs.  Home on the market, and upholstery looking old? It's time to bring fabric to the rescue. My two wicke...

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