Year in Review: Helping You Look Ahead

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

Year in Review: Helping You Look Ahead

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

Read more »

What Makes a Great Tablescape?

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

What Makes a Great Tablescape?

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

Read more »

DIY Craft Project: Upcycled Tin Tray

<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-P1060841_zpsaf925480.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-P1060841_zpsaf925480.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"><i>I used my DIY autumn-themed tray to anchor a group of props <br />suggesting a small beverage center. To be safe, <br />I stage with empty liquor bottles or bottles filled with water. </i> </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">One prop that’s indispensable to home staging is the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/06/99-centtray-makeover.html" target="_blank">simple tray.</a> It corrals little things and adds a subtle layer to <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/08/a-photo-primer-for-staging-your.html" target="_blank">tabletop decorating. </a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Whether it's round or square, flat or with a curvy lip, vintage or brand new, wood or rattan, a tray can make a bunch of ordinary stuff look important and planned. It's an automatic de-clutterer.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I decided to makeover a derelict metal tray I’ve owned forever. It would be perfect for autumn entertaining or staging in any room -- if only it looked presentable. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">This fall I’m taking a stand against the usual Halloween colors. I’ve centered my fall <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/09/five-rules-for-staging-mantel.html" target="_blank">decorating around greens.</a> I hunted through my fabrics to see what I had that was both green and harvest-reminiscent. Bingo – a green and cream <i>joie de vivre</i> print that included fruit and vegetable images.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The fabric lived a previous life as a DIY shower curtain from a house I staged eight years ago. My first step was to cut out only the images I wanted. I didn’t want ladies and gents dancing in their fancy clothes. I didn’t want the scrolls and birds and flowers. I wanted fruits and vegetables! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Knowing I had enough of the fabric scraps to make a collage, I then sanded and primed the tray. I used an orbital sander for most of it, but an orbital doesn’t get into corners, so I hand sanded those areas. It’s not perfect, and it still has a hole in the bottom, but good enough!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060762_zps6912708b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060762_zps6912708b.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">What I started with: the tray and the fabric. </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">I 'm sure that as a young thing, my toleware tray was quite a sight -- strong</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;"> and stylish with a black base coat decorated with hand-painted flowers. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-Blog-AutumntrayDIY1_zpsd2697582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-Blog-AutumntrayDIY1_zpsd2697582.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">These are the images I liked best in the fabric I was re-purposing.<br />I thought they looked like traditional fruits of autumn.  </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/1-P1060769_zps53e6f9ea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060769_zps53e6f9ea.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">This is how the tray looked after I gave it a good sanding to remove <br />corrosion and old paint. Many of you would like it to stay this way. <br />But I think it's a bit too <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/10/what-home-stagers-can-learn-from-shabby.html" target="_blank">shabby</a> for home staging.  </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/1-P1060824_zps8443ef09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="510" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060824_zps8443ef09.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">After a coat or two of  spray paint, things started to look better. The hole </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">didn't bother me. I knew it could be covered with a fabric scrap. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I sprayed a couple of coats of cream colored Rustoleum paint that matched the fabric background. Then I trimmed the fabric scraps and arranged them to fill the tray. Once I thought the arrangement looked okay, I used spray adhesive to anchor them, making sure the edges were glued down well. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: auto; padding: 6px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060827_zpsab084c46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060827_zpsab084c46.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><i>As in decoupage work, sharp scissors will give you good results. I fiddled with</i></div><div style="font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><i>the arrangement until I liked it, overlapping some of the fabric pieces. </i></div></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>The next step was to finish the tray with a few coats of clear gloss spray to protect it. Any time you want to make custom props like vases, lamp shades, trays, artwork or other decorative accessories, pasting paper or fabric onto a surface and then clear-coating is a method you can count on. It’s easy and it’s cheap. The clear spray is especially stinky, so I suggest you give a tray a few days to out-gas solvents before serving guests drinks or staging your foyer console with  it.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060853_zps4626f813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060853_zps4626f813.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The cut metal edge gives this tray a little extra flair. It's the perfect size for staging<br />a dry bar or small beverage station in a living or dining room, or on a <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/05/best-tips-for-staging-your-porch.html" target="_blank">porch</a>.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">  </div><div class="MsoNormal">When it comes to <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/finishing-touches-department-where-to.html" target="_blank">trays</a>, a gal can’t have too many, especially if she is staging a home. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Want more ideas and inspiration for staging your home? Just download my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">$5 eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar</i>. Don’t stage alone, when I can hold your hand and make your home staging easier and more effective.   </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj29/LaylaPalmer/Linky%20Buttons/Fall2013Badge%7CTheLetteredCottage_zpsb3d51d8c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj29/LaylaPalmer/Linky%20Buttons/Fall2013Badge%7CTheLetteredCottage_zpsb3d51d8c.jpg" /></a></div><br /></div>

DIY Craft Project: Upcycled Tin Tray

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

Read more »

Make This Simple Outdoor Fountain

<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-P1050703_zpsa634867d.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-P1050703_zpsa634867d.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The pleasant sounds of water splashing is one fine <br />way to introduce buyers to your home for sale. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I was hypnotized once. Really. By a trained hypnotherapist. She was starting her practice and she accepted trades for a session. I re-gifted her a food processor and she gave me a one hour session. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">It was so relaxing I didn’t want it to end. She planted the suggestion that whenever I heard the sound of water, I would feel relaxed and happy. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Well, that was a safe suggestion! Who doesn’t love the sound of a mountain stream, or waves breaking on the shore, or a bubbling fountain?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">They make CDs so people can chill or meditate to these sounds. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Want to Hypnotize Buyers? </b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">You can welcome people to a tour of your home with that happy, relaxing sound. Just put a bubbler fountain near your entrance. It’s a snap to make one from a simple, inexpensive pump and items you have around the house. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I bought my pump at Lowe’s in the garden department where they sell pool and fountain equipment. Pet stores and the aquarium department of Wal-Mart also sell submersible pumps, but they are not designed for outdoor applications. I purchased the model that pumped 50 to 80 gallons per hour and it cost about $17.<br /><br />The more expensive pumps are for larger fountains and in fountains where you want a “lift,” like an elevated cherub or turtle that spouts water. I wanted to keep things basic for this tutorial. No lift, no hose connections, no pricey statue. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The procedure is easy. Collect what you need, add water, place your pump underwater, hide the cord with pretty accessories, and throw the switch.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050658_zps3189299b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050658_zps3189299b.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A bubbler tickles my little frog friend's belly. I  surrounded the fountain with <br />some colorful annuals to ground the arrangement and hide the electric cord.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Some tips for success</span></b> </div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li>Place your fountain where the sounds will be noticed. If you have a front <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/05/best-tips-for-staging-your-porch.html" target="_blank">porch</a>, that's a perfect place. If you have an inviting deck or balcony with a view, that's another opportunity. Of course, it will depend on where your exterior electric source is. Do not run an extension cord. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></li><li>Locate your fountain where you will walk by it yourself regularly. If the water evaporates or splashes too much, the water level can get so low that the pump’s motor will burn out.  You’ll also want to make sure that leaves and other debris don’t clog the small filter on the pump. </li><li>If the container for your pump is deep, there is less chance it will run dry. The entire pump needs to be underwater.  Make sure your vessel is watertight. </li><li>Choose decorative items to hide the electric connection. Create a pleasing arrangement by adding details that echo a common theme or color scheme. Aim for a refreshing look by using plants and other natural elements. </li><li>Don’t be afraid to tell a story or set the stage for what awaits visitors to your home. Your staged fountain should be a tease for what’s inside your staged home. A little whimsy or some <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/02/if-youve-got-location-flaunt-it-heres.html" target="_blank">local color</a> can set the tone.  </li><li>Pay attention to the sound you create. The best sounds are created from water that splashes down onto a water surface, so arrange your pump to splash on water, not against the side of your vessel or onto rocks. </li><li>Anchor the pump securely to it doesn't vibrate. Make sure the vessel is not vibrating or it will sound like the fountain is humming instead of bubbling. The pump will be noisy if it is out of water, too. You don’t want to hear that sound.</li></ul><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-P1050587_zpsc2151027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050587_zpsc2151027.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">This plastic shell made the perfect container for a fountain on the deck. I hide the pump <br />under the conch shell where it squirts a steady stream of water between the coral clusters. <br />The drops of water under the plastic shell are from rain that wouldn't quit. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-size: large;">Here's the Easy Steps</span></b><br /><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/1-P1050675_zps24cf4cf9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="418" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050675_zps24cf4cf9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Decide where your fountain will be. Add a few inches of water to a container <br />that won't leak. Press the suction cups on the pump onto the bottom of the container.</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><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050678_zpsab1d7b98.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050678_zpsab1d7b98.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></i></div><i><span style="font-size: small;"></span></i><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><i style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: small;">The cord can be concealed behind plants and other props, but you can sometimes</span></i></span></i></div></div><i><span style="font-size: small;">tape it in place with tape like this white duct tape. Plug in the unit and <br />set the small dial on the pump so that it pumps at full capacity.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050687_zps8ae8510c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050687_zps8ae8510c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Surround the pump with rocks, but keep the spout of the pump clear. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Make sure the rocks are clean so dirt won't clog the pump's intake. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You may have to adjust the angle of the pump to get the best "squirt direction."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><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-P1050710_zps5f214de2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050710_zps5f214de2.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Once you've created a setting for your tabletop fountain, your work is done.<br />But be sure to check your fountain daily and change the water weekly.<br />Or, you can add a few drops of bleach to keep the water fresh.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;">Now you know how easy it is to cast a relaxing spell on people who come to tour your home. Maybe even hypnotize buyers into making a <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/negotiating-101-how-to-get-what-you-want.html" target="_blank">purchase offer</a>!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For more tips on staging your own home to entice buyers, 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>. There’s so much you can do yourself without spending big bucks. Is your home staged to sell?  </div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div></div>

Make This Simple Outdoor Fountain

The pleasant sounds of water splashing is one fine way to introduce buyers to your home for sale.  I was hypnotized once. Really. By a train...

Read more »

A Simple Way to Make Any Room More Inviting

<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-P1050245_zps54ef5beb.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-P1050245_zps54ef5beb.jpg" width="402" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Are elephants warm and fuzzy? In a certain way, yes!</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: right;"></div><div class="MsoNormal">Friendly.<br /><br />Lovable.<br /><br />Approachable.<br /><br />These are qualities that attract us to other people. So, it’s no surprise that the same qualities make a house attractive to home buyers. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">One of the best ways I know to make a room friendlier is to add reminders of nature.<br /><br />Here are three ways to do just that:<br /><ul><li><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/thrifty-decor-how-to-give-rooms-fresh.html" target="_blank">Plants</a>, real or <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/05/seven-secrets-to-making-silk-plants-and.html" target="_blank">silk</a>.</li><li>A window with a garden view.</li><li>Natural <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/02/lighting-secrets-to-help-sell-your-home_4.html" target="_blank">lighting</a>. </li></ul></div><div class="MsoNormal">And there’s another way to use nature to breathe life into a room: Animals, but not your house pets!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Here are some prime examples of how animal décor can make your home more interesting and lovable.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-foxpictureselledecor_zps2e86fbce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="544" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-foxpictureselledecor_zps2e86fbce.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">This sparsely furnished bedroom is the perfect setting for <br />some framed prints of English hunting scenes. Via Elle Decor</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/1-horsepicmidwestliving_zpsa2bf2b01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="534" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-horsepicmidwestliving_zpsa2bf2b01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I'm partial to oil paintings of horses at rest. This traditionally designed living room<br />gets an extra shot of class from the painting. Midwest Magazine.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-birdphoptotodhuntertraditionalhome_zpseebc8052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-birdphoptotodhuntertraditionalhome_zpseebc8052.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Audubon bird prints have their place, but a contemporary photo<br />of a bird makes for handsome framed art as well. Tod Hunter, Traditional Home</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/1-RabbitpictureBehr_zps7542421e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="466" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-RabbitpictureBehr_zps7542421e.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">DIY art using animal graphics is easy to do, and can fill <br />wall space in a budget-staged home. Behr paints.</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/1-elephantviaorangebeautiful_zps21e46984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-elephantviaorangebeautiful_zps21e46984.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">An elephant side table is timeless and crosses all decor styles. They come in all sizes <br />and designs. I especially like this glossy white one. Orange Beautiful. </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/1-foodogshadesoflight_zps2485bdfc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-foodogshadesoflight_zps2485bdfc.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Another classic is foo dog ceramic ware.  Feng Shui teaches that foo dogs offer<br />protection. This one stands guard  and lights the way. Shades of Light.</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/1-frogvase_zps6531a45f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-frogvase_zps6531a45f.jpg" width="389" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Who could resist smiling at these three hugging frogs? Accessories<br />like this can help stage <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/06/stage-your-home-with-books-heres-how.html" target="_blank">bookcases</a> and <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/10/ins-and-outs-of-staging-fireplace-mantel.html" target="_blank">mantels</a> with a sense of humor. </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/1-monkeybookendsapttherapy_zps0b2ac0a5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-monkeybookendsapttherapy_zps0b2ac0a5.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Jungle animals and animals that people feel a special kinship with are especially<br />good allies for staging your home. Example: Monkey bookends. Apartment Therapy.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-Blog-animalprints_zpsa2735372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-Blog-animalprints_zpsa2735372.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Almost any style of animal imaging -- if it's original -- works for home staging. </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">Aren't t</span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">hese </span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">abstract cat pillows from Laurel Burch charming?    </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/1-AnimalprintLonnyMagazine_zps0a2ffc5c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-AnimalprintLonnyMagazine_zps0a2ffc5c.jpg" width="508" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Perhaps the most popular animal prints are the leopard (above) and the zebra stripe. <br />One animal print per room is the usual rule, but you can make your own rules! </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/1-birdcurtainspotterybarn_zps6aa90fbe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="359" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-birdcurtainspotterybarn_zps6aa90fbe.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">These Pottery Barn drapery panels feature gorgeous bird designs, <br />always an attractive motif for home decor.  </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/1-furchairnester_zps5cbb4bec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="444" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-furchairnester_zps5cbb4bec.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The Nester blogged about how she made this <a href="http://www.thenester.com/2011/03/fur-chair-no-sew-reupholstery.html" target="_blank">no-sew, faux fur-covered chair.</a><br />I think it's fabulous. It's fake, but it looks like mink -- so Hollywood!</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/1-P1050214_zpsbeb18cfd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1050214_zpsbeb18cfd.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Don't forget your outdoor spaces. This fish fountain sits on my back porch. </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">It was easy to </span></i><i><span style="font-size: small;">make, and adds a soothing sound to the backyard. .  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">While researching images for this post, I stumbled on some unwise choices, like glowing turtle lamps, owl placemats, and neon flamingos. So, beware the kitchy, overused, animal accents, and instead look for either lovable or exotic motifs. Stay away from less likable animals like snakes.<br /><br />No unicorns, please. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Pigs and chickens are iffy. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Out of doors, be on guard against <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/07/make-your-home-gnome-free-zone.html" target="_blank">“slob art.”</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">One more caveat: don’t use real fur. If it’s fabric you’re after, velvet animal prints and faux furs are what you want. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Sometimes staged rooms become too sterile. Using wildlife images and imitations can give rooms some animal magnetism and whimsy if you do it with <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/01/five-simple-ways-to-add-style-to-your.html" target="_blank">style</a>.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you need more inspiration and advice on staging your home so you can 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>. Let me be your guide while you get your home ready for market.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/photowtextanimals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/homestaging/photowtextanimals.jpg" width="402" /></a></div><br /></div>

A Simple Way to Make Any Room More Inviting

Are elephants warm and fuzzy? In a certain way, yes! Friendly. Lovable. Approachable. These are qualities that attract us to other people. S...

Read more »

This Season's Darling: The Tabletop Christmas Tree

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

This Season's Darling: The Tabletop Christmas Tree

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

Read more »

Design a Holiday Tablescape Perfect for Home Staging

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030584.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>When your home is on the market, the home staging you do during the holidays needs to be festive without being too kooky. Here’s an example of what works. I think my combination of wintry, woodland elements with clean, shiny colors hits just the right note.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030621.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I put together this centerpiece for a long table. I centered a strip of natural burlap the length of the table. I layered on the first element – two round mirrors that hinted of iced ponds. I surrounded the “ponds” with a couple of shiny bead garlands and then added black and brown rocks for some contrast.<br /><br />I wanted some texture, so I pulled out my bag of fake mossy blobs. They look something like small shrubs. For larger shrubs and a different texture, I placed some natural pine cones at each end of the arrangement.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030600.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>My two focal points were the deer I purchased. They were gold, and I sprayed them with silver paint. They still glisten enough to make me happy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1030572.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>To complete the tableau, I parked the cone-trees I made from purchased paper mache bases that I painted three different colors. The two smaller paper mache trees I covered with Epsom salts for some sparkle, and the third tree I left white.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">What Makes a Winning Tabletop Display?</span></b><br /><br />Here are the elements I keep in mind while assembling any <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/08/a-photo-primer-for-staging-your.html" target="_blank">tablescape</a> for home staging:<br /><br />Make the colors harmonious with the rest of the room. The color scheme of your home should flow from room to room, but Christmas is a time when some extra doses of color are welcome.<br /><br />Avoid overly religious subjects, or political decor, or any art that might be considered too personal or controversial. People like to do business with -- as in, buy houses from -- people who are most like them. The less they know about you personally, the more businesslike and objective the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/negotiating-101-how-to-get-what-you.html" target="_blank">negotiations</a>. <br /><br />If the rest of your home is minimally decorated, don't go overboard with tablescapes at <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/12/my-favorite-15-minute-holiday.html" target="_blank">holiday time</a>. Your displays should maintain the character and "weight" of your home, and showcase its assets. <br /><br />Don’t use anything that is too expensive or has sentimental value. Things disappear during home tours.  <br /><br />Concentrate on shapes, textures, and colors for subtle variety. Nothing should be too distracting. You want buyers to notice the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/10/does-your-home-have-some-wow-factors.html" target="_blank">Wow Factors</a> in your home. <br /><br />Have your vignette tell a story. Ideally, the story helps sell your home by reminding buyers what’s special. It could be the size of the dining room, the romance of the bedroom, or the setting of the home itself.<br /><br />Do you have a home on the market? Are you planning to sell your home soon? 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>, will help you show your home in the best possible way, by staging it right. You can download the book instantly, and start your own home staging today.<br /><br />

Design a Holiday Tablescape Perfect for Home Staging

When your home is on the market, the home staging you do during the holidays needs to be festive without being too kooky. Here’s an example ...

Read more »

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...

Read more »