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...

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Staging the Dining Room Table: DIY Napkin Rings

<div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2009/10/BKS042263.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2009/10/BKS042263.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />While men typically focus on where the television will go in a home they are shopping for, women tend to picture their family or friends around the dining table as a litmus test for how well they like any particular home.<br /><div><br /></div>How is your dining table looking for real estate showings?<br /><br />With Thanksgiving on the near horizon for Americans, it's the perfect time to give some attention to your dining room. If your home is for sale, you might want to reevaluate how your dining table looks when buyers AND guests come for the holidays ahead.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Tabletops need pizazz </span></b><br /><br />Wherever you have meals, make that area a place that charms buyers. Make it a spot where they want to celebrate Thanksgiving and other occasions. It needn't be fancy. Most of us don't live that way. The secret is in having just enough details on the table to make it inviting and interesting, without it taking over the entire room visually. I've already blogged here about what <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/heres-how-to-set-table-in-your-staged.html" target="_blank">place settings should look like in the staged home</a>. <br /><br />If your dining table is the default spot for craft supplies, bills, or homework projects, there's no better time than pre-holidays for staging the area.<br /><br />Since complicated table settings would only be a bother -- especially if you use the table for daily dining  -- simple settings are the answer. Placemats, plates, glassware, and napkins might be all you need. And <a href="http://draft.blogger.com/">napkin rings</a> give the finishing touch!<br /><br />I like to DIY napkin rings from common materials like ribbon, cheap bracelets, curtain rings, beads, wire, buttons, or cardboard. Making your own is the frugal way to go, and who isn't on a budget when it's time to sell a home? Here's a gallery of ideas for inspiration. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.littlemissmomma.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0368-640x476.jpg?9d7bd4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="http://www.littlemissmomma.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0368-640x476.jpg?9d7bd4" width="640" /></a></div><a href="http://kojo-designs.com/2010/02/kojotutorial-plaid-brooches-2/" target="_blank">These rings</a>, were handmade by Ashley at <a href="http://www.littlemissmomma.com/" target="_blank">Little Miss Momma</a>. She credits KoJo Designs for teaching her how. I like that even though each one is a little bit different -- which happens when you use upcycled materials like buttons and brooches --  the twine wrap makes them all similar enough.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.pysselbolaget.se/2012/11/PB_nov_24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://media.pysselbolaget.se/2012/11/PB_nov_24.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Who would know that these <a href="http://pysselbolaget.se/2012/11/09/latta-servettringareasy-napkin-rings/" target="_blank">colorful napkin rings</a> began life as toilet paper rolls? Karin at her Swedish blog, Pysselbolaget, shows you how. These are the handiwork of her 8-year old daughter, and I think they are definitely stage-worthy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.merrimentdesign.com/images/recycled-fabric-napkin-rings-from-saran-wrap-tubes_18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://www.merrimentdesign.com/images/recycled-fabric-napkin-rings-from-saran-wrap-tubes_18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Have some fabric scraps you love too much to discard? Here's another design that began with a cardboard tube, this time the core from a role of Saran. The <a href="http://www.merrimentdesign.com/recycled-fabric-napkin-rings-from-saran-wrap-tubes.php" target="_blank">tutorial at Merriment Design</a> shows you exactly how to. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJlrW3Nz6nMTw356TbrNaqRm5gME3pO9js0bng4R5laqpJMuA7SL01zq_XYu0ygl6co4qDDCev5jjo2W-eM1BknsoZ2_Hsuwb70uCdqZi9TxtszgLUeUTDioH-DQcuB8QulKDeFtvhBo/s1600/IMG_7755.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/AVvXsEgdJlrW3Nz6nMTw356TbrNaqRm5gME3pO9js0bng4R5laqpJMuA7SL01zq_XYu0ygl6co4qDDCev5jjo2W-eM1BknsoZ2_Hsuwb70uCdqZi9TxtszgLUeUTDioH-DQcuB8QulKDeFtvhBo/s640/IMG_7755.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>On the left is a sample of Michelle's work, from <a href="http://sweetsomethingdesign.blogspot.com/2011/06/diy-napkin-rings-2-kinds.html" target="_blank">Sweet Something Designs</a>. She used dollar store napkin rings and covered them with fabric and a button, for a handsome "buttoned-up" look that I love.<br /><br />Napkin rings in the staged home shouldn't be so precious that anyone is tempted to walk  off with them.<br /><br />I would keep the vintage jewelry and anything else with either sentimental or monetary worth hidden away.<br /><br />You also don't want napkin rings to stand out so much that buyers are distracted from what makes your home valuable -- the size of the rooms, the view, the condition of the floors and walls -- or whatever your home's selling points are. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VI0pmbNwdOP6dAK-UaSN5450DKT2E4RoXq4Oh2rbeMuRkG1g4a5cZNB79gnOzI_RJH_qeklhds5Ei90cWPALeeXheTg_qiIKn_vsaxUf40yZNb35XgQnHCGseLDQ6UyZhJakMJJLw0kU/s640/ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VI0pmbNwdOP6dAK-UaSN5450DKT2E4RoXq4Oh2rbeMuRkG1g4a5cZNB79gnOzI_RJH_qeklhds5Ei90cWPALeeXheTg_qiIKn_vsaxUf40yZNb35XgQnHCGseLDQ6UyZhJakMJJLw0kU/s640/ring.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Over at <a href="http://projectfidgetyfingers.blogspot.com/2008/03/diy-napkin-ring.html" target="_blank">Fidgety Fingers DIY</a> (cute name!) you can learn how to make napkin rings this striking-looking by weaving strips of magazine pages. What could be more economical?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVTBJJ2yz00YzSrmtkMGVtyS5gMd3QKdAe_zhaGG58r1a_SyMjV7dvkcWP1KrREY3EPPs2J5ZaZlKnhMBlJrELzuO50fX18HIs9DKUu2ktCaYZUYaE9lBRJI98h6BLrwH5F9hBFKwK_T9/s400/4th-of-july-summer-craft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVTBJJ2yz00YzSrmtkMGVtyS5gMd3QKdAe_zhaGG58r1a_SyMjV7dvkcWP1KrREY3EPPs2J5ZaZlKnhMBlJrELzuO50fX18HIs9DKUu2ktCaYZUYaE9lBRJI98h6BLrwH5F9hBFKwK_T9/s640/4th-of-july-summer-craft.jpg" width="580" /></a></div>Selling a coastal home? How about wooden drapery rings as a start for <a href="http://justsomethingimade.com/2011/03/easy-drapery-ring-lifesavers/" target="_blank">napkin rings that imitate little life preservers</a>? Cathe, at her blog, Just Something I Made, will show you how. Just follow the link!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Another beachy rendition comes from <a href="http://www.designsponge.com/2011/07/diy-project-beachy-napkin-rings.html" target="_blank">The BB Craft Sisters</a>, featured on Design Sponge, where you'll find the tutorial. Using rope and collected shells, the look is crisp and clean, and ... well...coastal!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pink13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pink13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>The quickest way to add some height and style to a plain napkin is to wrap it in a second napkin. I liked the combination of this gingham napkin with an embroidered linen one. You can go cute and country with this method, or edgey and urban, depending on the fabrics you choose. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1030329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1030329.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I made this napkin ring from bracelet memory wire you can buy in the jewelry-making section of any craft store. It's a <span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;">sturdy wire that has a natural curve to it. You need to use heavy duty wire cutters (n0t your usual jewelry wire snippers) to cut it, and needle nose pliers to curl one end. Then just string on some beads, and curl the other end. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1030341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1030341.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Do you recognize the material I used to make this bow napkin ring? It's the latex waffle pad that keeps rugs in place on the floor, and protects dishes on the shelves. It has the appeal of a natural fiber, but the clean lines of something more contemporary. Great texture, but your only color choice is white.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/orange3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/orange3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Finally, this unfussy treatment uses wired ribbon to tie up folded napkins for a touch of drama on your table. It's economical and easy. I used sheer ribbon, but any wired ribbon works well, with the exception of glittery ribbon, which I find makes a mess on the table if you're repeatedly removing and replacing your place settings. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Are You Getting Ideas? </span></b><br /><br />The <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/finishing-touches-department-where-to.html" target="_blank">finishing touches</a> are what will make your home look interesting and polished. So, don't ignore the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/01/details-that-make-difference.html" target="_blank">razzle-dazzle detail </a>that things like napkin rings bring to the table.<br /><br />Need more tips to get your home market-ready? Just 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>, and you'll be on your way to making your home the one that impresses buyers.<br /><br />Top photo: Better Homes and Gardens. <a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/do-it-yourself/accents/transform-jewelry-into-home-accents/#page=25" target="_blank">DIY instructions here.</a>

Staging the Dining Room Table: DIY Napkin Rings

While men typically focus on where the television will go in a home they are shopping for, women tend to picture their family or friends aro...

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Get The Look for Less: Fancy Schmancy Napkin Rings

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020148_zpsd20fe73b.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/homestaging/P1020148_zpsd20fe73b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Napkin rings you make yourself for pennies that look like the $8 kind you see in department and decor stores? Yep!<br /><br />In fact, they are so easy to make, you can have your children do it.<br /><br />I made a set of these napkin rings that are big and chunky -- perfect for <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/heres-how-to-set-table-in-your-staged.html" target="_blank">staging a tabletop </a>when your home is for sale. When home staging, the idea is to go big with what goes into a place setting. Big plates. Big glasses. Big bowls. Big ole napkins.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">What You Need</span></b><br /><br />To make six napkin rings, gather these things.<br /><br />Six 5-ounce cans, the squat kind<br />Aluminum foil, 3 feet off a 12-inch wide roll<br />Black craft paint<br />Small paint brush<br />Clean cotton rag<br />Clear glossy spray paint<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">How to Do</span></b><br /><br />I use the cans from evaporated milk, or canned mushrooms, or green chilis. Make sure all the ones you choose are the same  -- same food, same brand -- so they all match exactly.<br /><br />It's important that you go around both top and bottom edges a few times with a can opener. Make sure there are no sharp burrs. After this point, the project is kid-friendly.<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/P1020158_zps7f51f4cf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020158_zps7f51f4cf.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Remove the label and both ends of the can, and wash it well.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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/P1020161_zpsbebdd9d3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020161_zpsbebdd9d3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Using scissors, cut the 3-foot piece of foil into three 1-foot lengths. Then cut each in half.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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/P1020162_zps694e2ba0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="416" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020162_zps694e2ba0.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Place a prepared can at the center of one edge of a piece of foil, and roll it so it's covered. </span></i> </td></tr></tbody></table><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/P1020163_zps971d5844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020163_zps971d5844.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Where the foil overlaps, run a small line of white glue, and press to hold the edge flat. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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/P1020165_zpscb035580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020165_zpscb035580.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Tuck the edges inside the can and flatten them with fingers. Finger press the top and bottom edges. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020113_zps1be1f731.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020113_zps1be1f731.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Paint the outside of the can with black craft paint. Be sure to get into all the wrinkles. </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/homestaging/P1020116_zpsfa3d2759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020116_zpsfa3d2759.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Before the paint dries completely, rub off most of it with your rag. Let it dry for an hour. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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/P1020126_zps5c541caf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020126_zps5c541caf.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Once you spray on a few light coats of clear gloss, it will look like old metal. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020172_zpsd285aedf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020172_zpsd285aedf.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">You can decorate your napkin rings with beads. This one wasn't antiqued with black paint. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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/P1020185_zpse473e9cf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020185_zpse473e9cf.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I painted this version with red and brown craft paints to look like old leather. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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/P1020179_zps82baa250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020179_zps82baa250.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">An even easier version: just cover the can with a strip of scrapbook paper.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><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/P1020175_zps7c0ca900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1020175_zps7c0ca900.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Another easy treatment is to wrap the can with a some decorative duct tape. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Although I designed these napkin tings for place settings in a staged home, they're sturdy enough to hold up to ordinary use. I hope you have fun inventing your own style napkin rings from upcycled tin cans.<br /><br />Is your home ready for market? Is it staged to sell? 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> simplifies your work. Whether it's cleaning, decluttering, arranging furniture, or accessorizing rooms, I give you the insider tips and techniques that professional stagers reply on to sell homes. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i916.photobucket.com/albums/ad2/bethcrabtree/Fall_Link_Party_Sarah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i916.photobucket.com/albums/ad2/bethcrabtree/Fall_Link_Party_Sarah.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />

Get The Look for Less: Fancy Schmancy Napkin Rings

Napkin rings you make yourself for pennies that look like the $8 kind you see in department and decor stores? Yep! In fact, they are so easy...

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Make No-Sew Placemats for Your Staged Dining Table

<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010825.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/homestaging/P1010825.jpg" width="382" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Here's a DIY tabletop project anyone could <br />have fun with. You just weave strips of felt in your<br />choice of colors through a rectangle of felt that's been sliced.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>No-Sew. Who doesn't love that? Especially when the results are as impressive as these handsome placemats.<br /><br />Orange is my favorite color and I'm guessing that many people are attracted to it, since Tangerine is Color of the Year 2012.<br /><br />Having some hints of orange -- or Tangerine if you want to get all fancy with names -- will give your home some warmth.<br /><br />And a touch of trendiness too, because let's face it: you didn't see Tangerine in the color palettes of the 80's, 90's, or 00's. <br /><br />I chose shades of tawny brown, gold, and pumpkin to make these placemats look autumnal.<br /><br />That's another thing to love about oranges. They're "in season" now that summer's over.<br /><br />These mats are made of felt. Felt doesn't require hemming. And felt comes in oodles of pretty colors. Also, felt is relatively cheap, as fabrics go.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">What You Need</span></b><br /><br />These materials will make four mats.<br /><br /><ul><li>Felt by the yard, about half a yard  </li><li>Felt by the piece, 12 pieces, as many different colors as you like. I used three colors.  </li><li>Scissors, good sharp ones</li><li>Rotary cutter and self healing cutting mat (optional) </li><li>Marking pen for fabric</li><li>Metal yardstick</li><li>Fabric glue</li></ul><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>How to Do</b></span><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/placematsrotarycutter2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/placematsrotarycutter2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Cut the 9- by 12-inch squares into 1 1/4-inch wide strips, 12 inches long. You can use </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">scissors or a rotary cutter like this. It's important to make straight, even cuts or the mats </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">will </span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">look like a summer camp craft project! If using scissors, keep the bottom blade flat </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">against the </span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">work surface, and make small cutting motions rather than trying to </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">keep a straight line by cutting with one long motion.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><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/placematwhiteonly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/placematwhiteonly.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Next, cut a piece of felt the size of a placemat. My piece measured 16 by 13 inches. <br />Work in good lighting, take your time, and keep the edges clean and sharp. I used<br />a rotary cutter with my self-healing cutting mat, but scissors will work almost<br />as well. This background piece will act like a loom for your woven placemat. </span></i><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></i></div><i><span style="font-size: small;"></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010843.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Fold the placemat in half lengthwise, and pin it along the cut edges to hold them in place. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Using the fabric marker, mark lines crosswise at 1 1/4 -inch intervals. Leave an </i><br /><i>uncut border at both ends and along the lengthwise edges, as shown. </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010844.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Cut on the lines you marked, ending the cuts evenly on the lengthwise line. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010846.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This is what your felt placemat will look like when it is unpinned and opened. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This piece now provides the "weft" or the crosswise strips for weaving, held in place </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>by the perimeter, which serves like the loom. The colored strips of felt </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>will provide the "warp" or the lengthwise strips.</i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010847.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Begin weaving your first strip of felt up and down through the crosswise strips of felt. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It won't go all the way to the end, but we'll piece it and glue it and it won't show from the front.    </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010848.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Cut a piece of felt long enough to finish the row with an inch to spare for overlapping and adjusting. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you like, you </i><i>can change the color of any strip for a different look, even midway across the mat.  </i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010850.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Overlap the pieces and press with your fingers to hold in place temporarily. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010851.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Start the next row with a different color. Don't bother to square up the ends. </i><br /><i>You can do that when all the felt strips are in place. </i><i> Keep the mat flat and resist the temptation</i><br /><i>to flip it over to examine it. Working on a board that can be rotated makes it easier.</i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010864.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Once all the placemat is covered with strips of felt, use a fabric glue like Liquid Stitch </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>to join the strips that were pieced together. Keep all these glued connections </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>on one side of the placemat, which will be the back of the mat. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You can slide the strips to the left and right to adjust the placement of the </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>glued overlap, and then trim off any felt strips on the two outside edges to make them all even. </i><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="386" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010827.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">  <i style="text-align: center;">Let the glue dry for 24 hours. Flip the placemat over and admire your finished product. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="text-align: center;">You will find felt very forgiving and pleasant to work with. </i></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/P1010872.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Although I generally advise against <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/03/heres-how-to-set-table-in-your-staged.html" target="_blank">setting a table in the staged home </a>with real cutlery</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>because it is too tempting for people to steal it, I discovered these </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>disposable silverware sets that don't look like disposables, at the dollar store. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>They are so lightweight that if anyone picks one up, he'll immediately realize it is plastic </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>and leave it there. If he takes it, well, one dollar buys you four three-piece settings!  </i></div><br /><br />I staged this tabletop for an autumn <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/05/open-house-checklist-ready-set-go.html" target="_blank">Open House</a>, but by changing the colors, you can make holiday or springtime or birthday or picnic or wedding or any occasion placemats. The Liquid Stitch didn't stand up to washing, so unfortunately these mats aren't for ongoing usage. A stain and water repellant like Scotchgard can extend their life, but basically, the placemats are suitable for staging or limited use only.<br /><br />A bare table in a staged home usually begs for some decoration. Why not stage your tabletops to make people touring your home see that you're tuned in to the changing seasons, and that you enjoy living in your home?<br /><br />Do you want more ideas for staging your home for sale? 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><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj29/LaylaPalmer/Linky%20Buttons/Fall_Link_Party_Layla-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj29/LaylaPalmer/Linky%20Buttons/Fall_Link_Party_Layla-1.jpg" /></a></div><i><br /></i><i><br /></i>

Make No-Sew Placemats for Your Staged Dining Table

Here's a DIY tabletop project anyone could have fun with. You just weave strips of felt in your choice of colors through a rectangle of ...

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The Stars Align When You Sprinkle in Some Bling

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

The Stars Align When You Sprinkle in Some Bling

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

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