back deck lighting + grass

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyaqFqB1iY7Efxh1vElUTcmMXk8X6SkYw_bgDKvkjiJNiDHLiFLs2QFP2RWuBoFsmsL9-Awwqfe9BWU1wtSSef12-f6Cm0Ed_tAZ0YBGGkKpCkOrqO8fNGo8B853UkMny2pqqVeDvHvWs/s1600/20140507_153832d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyaqFqB1iY7Efxh1vElUTcmMXk8X6SkYw_bgDKvkjiJNiDHLiFLs2QFP2RWuBoFsmsL9-Awwqfe9BWU1wtSSef12-f6Cm0Ed_tAZ0YBGGkKpCkOrqO8fNGo8B853UkMny2pqqVeDvHvWs/s1600/20140507_153832d.jpg" /></a></div><a href="http://aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.ca/2014/05/deck-privacy-screen-take-2-or-3.html" target="_blank">The back deck has gone through a little series of updates</a> and I'm excited to show you the current stage. We did the final finishing touch and added some accent lighting to really finish off this space in addition to adding some planters. First - the lighting - I found two outdoor modern black lights at <a href="http://www.sescolite.com/" target="_blank">Sescolite </a>in Toronto (they were approximately $100 each)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvfQ65PBuJjK54KeWF0K0lLxsGJchDQMrGKqKefhywfayXJQouQw6cfpzzQQlBjoiSGRL4lvQPS76hFTjlD2Hyco0iIPkyw-D6zz_qtjatwx38h0V3BnxTZW3j5zWnY12IhhYvQijC3w/s1600/IMG_6877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvfQ65PBuJjK54KeWF0K0lLxsGJchDQMrGKqKefhywfayXJQouQw6cfpzzQQlBjoiSGRL4lvQPS76hFTjlD2Hyco0iIPkyw-D6zz_qtjatwx38h0V3BnxTZW3j5zWnY12IhhYvQijC3w/s1600/IMG_6877.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkgYFCIbnnZzBrISPeLg-ybZ6HUfKOzUA_ccrM9EI0tI6HD8wBhP3R4rXdv1iod0VkmCt6HFaSNYOkywN4Q4NTN5AKww4uvDwNZ6rIm4HuFKRTpA_6tAS4IokA2brkvxJbb-aoAvA1QM/s1600/IMG_6944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkgYFCIbnnZzBrISPeLg-ybZ6HUfKOzUA_ccrM9EI0tI6HD8wBhP3R4rXdv1iod0VkmCt6HFaSNYOkywN4Q4NTN5AKww4uvDwNZ6rIm4HuFKRTpA_6tAS4IokA2brkvxJbb-aoAvA1QM/s1600/IMG_6944.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtn8q7mStKjJ7qhp5A3LN9llw_-ckY-GEdTFA9IJhS6HMRuuZcf_LXomabKUK18PbN5rUtsf94lvk122ZS7AaUDhH-CrEKtBXJ4Jg_1O42s0SV-MflYLEBz9glcXO02PvNccZo941Z0Yw/s1600/IMG_6956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtn8q7mStKjJ7qhp5A3LN9llw_-ckY-GEdTFA9IJhS6HMRuuZcf_LXomabKUK18PbN5rUtsf94lvk122ZS7AaUDhH-CrEKtBXJ4Jg_1O42s0SV-MflYLEBz9glcXO02PvNccZo941Z0Yw/s1600/IMG_6956.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zpIw22rYEIyQQJO4xa-nlSJyvTCSu2cykmkchIohBJfdnXXSiXjvGbvrrPbE6TQ00cfchY7lmnOOxGMXktphC2Ss-K2ALaav7AtUcwmJlaQlGjx91AmybING076vpBMTllcjDg9Y3Oo/s1600/IMG_6989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zpIw22rYEIyQQJO4xa-nlSJyvTCSu2cykmkchIohBJfdnXXSiXjvGbvrrPbE6TQ00cfchY7lmnOOxGMXktphC2Ss-K2ALaav7AtUcwmJlaQlGjx91AmybING076vpBMTllcjDg9Y3Oo/s1600/IMG_6989.jpg" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmeHtmwwuC44FwCgnzH3P0xyRvv9trxD9QZugPrGXCzTOWJ8XCvGkD7JPmgTMoiY8k150rt5Wb5UqJlOREa6ydCUwutMjjbshkTZWjZBbEViEY9Sdb0QPFAPNnUxrnDDGYaJ5xFLAt5U0/s1600/IMG_6993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmeHtmwwuC44FwCgnzH3P0xyRvv9trxD9QZugPrGXCzTOWJ8XCvGkD7JPmgTMoiY8k150rt5Wb5UqJlOREa6ydCUwutMjjbshkTZWjZBbEViEY9Sdb0QPFAPNnUxrnDDGYaJ5xFLAt5U0/s1600/IMG_6993.jpg" /></a><br /><br />OMG. I love, love them. I really felt that we needed some lighting that shone down (vs. outwards) in order to not flood the deck with lighting. The two lights adds enough ambient lighting that you can sit out there and now see people, or even have the lights on when you're indoors and you don't feel like you're sending a bat signal to outer space.<br /><br />To finish off the space I added some planters from PC Home & Garden, and planted some perennial grasses that will stay there in the winter, and then I'll cut them down in the Spring and watch them come back to life. The lighting and planters makes looking outside much more pleasant - previously it just looked like a porch, to get to the garden. Now it feels like an outdoor room.<br /><br /><b>Lighting</b>: Purchased at <a href="http://www.sescolite.com/" target="_blank">Sescolite </a><br /><i>Tip: Carolyn has always helped my Mom and I, and is amazing. Do ask for her if you go in. </i><br /><br /><b>Planters + Plants</b>: Purchased at PC Garden Centre <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- BIG Ad for posts --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:336px;height:280px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-1823932887598627" data-ad-slot="9770787480"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script>

back deck lighting + grass

The back deck has gone through a little series of updates  and I'm excited to show you the current stage. We did the final finishing tou...

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Staging Your Home for the Summer Months

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/vintageposterCA-CustomVintageSigns.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/vintageposterCA-CustomVintageSigns.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>When people purchase a home they buy a vision of their future. And most people's vision of summer is a happy one. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Now that summertime is here, it's the time to double-check your homestaging. Does it capitalize on the happy vibes of the season?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I've collected a series of photos that I think captures the spirit of summer, one of the busiest home-buying times of the year.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I hope you'll take inspiration and ideas from these images, and make the most of summer staging so you'll land a purchase offer you love!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Summertime staging can incorporate a little whimsy without looking goofy. Try some humorous or nostalgic touches in small spaces or outdoors. How about some silly sayings on your guest bath towels? Or vintage beach scenes framed in the hallway? Maybe some  whirligigs outside a colorful garden shed? <br /><br />A <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/04/need-some-curb-appeal-dress-up-your.html#.U54ND9gU-M8" target="_blank">summer wreath of fabric,</a> shells, or bright summer flowers on the front door welcomes people touring your home. Pots of blooming plants near your entrance are a must if you're working on boosting your curb appeal. You can <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/05/sell-your-home-and-then-move-your.html" target="_blank">take potted plants with you when you move</a>, so splurge on pretty containers and interesting plants.  <br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal">Look for props that spell summer fun, especially if you live near a summer destination like a pool, lake or beach. Incorporate fun things like picnic baskets, sand pails and flip flops, seaside relics like coral, rope and shells, or souvenirs like framed art from a vacation destination.</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/outdoorseatsfinegardening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/outdoorseatsfinegardening.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Every outdoor space needs seating, and it doesn't have to be pricey or trendy. Find a shady corner to stage   a relaxing setting. Photo: Fine Gardening.  </span></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></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/backyard-dining-Sunsetmag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/backyard-dining-Sunsetmag.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Turning a <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2013/05/best-tips-for-staging-your-porch.html" target="_blank">porch</a> into an outdoor eating and entertaining area is like adding a room. Photo: Sunset.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>  <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/firepitHGTV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/firepitHGTV.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>A backyard fire pit is a plus, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBzHX5Sf1fk" target="_blank">a simple fire ring</a> is a do-able DIY project. Photo: HGTV.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>  </i></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><i>  </i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><img height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiJmPrXGgCOwP6YUgHxe-9pKhWBmifDyjTpf0jNMbb5GqOOdrRUgTLv6BepOwNQaqG9OJB-Kh152PIggGtBumeZYCk8A9cHphZ8PNBAhyQEsSQTicPa2PFFRqz1V28ixU7JxYzMd2PfF5GxhDMY9AVap6WXbVG-TDO25FYsZcpV1avNfcId6LPmX9KBCsM=" style="left: 184px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 2568px;" width="72" /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1090730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="443" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/P1090730.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Summer months are gardening time, and everyone wants homegrown tomatoes. Add some pots to the yard, balcony, deck or patio that remind buyers of summer meals. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; 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/collectionofprintsHGTV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/collectionofprintsHGTV.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Indoors, collections can remind buyers of the local sights and pleasures. Photo: HGTV</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/rockfireplaceBHG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/rockfireplaceBHG.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Seasonal color schemes focus on cool pastels or crisp blues and white. Photo: BHG</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/slipcoversloftandcottageblogspot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/slipcoversloftandcottageblogspot.jpg" width="556" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>White slipcovers and summer are a tight twosome. Easy-care furnishings will give your home a casual. lived-in feeling that is attractive to all home buyers.</i> <i><a href="http://loftandcottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Loft and Cottage BlogSpot.</a></i></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/driftwoodmirrorcompletelycoastal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/driftwoodmirrorcompletelycoastal.jpg" width="504" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Even if your home is nowhere near the coast, driftwood and other natural elements add that touch of nature that is part of summer's lifestyle. Photo via <a href="http://www.completely-coastal.com/" target="_blank">Completely Coastal</a>.</i></span><br /><div align="left">   </div></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/ShippaintingsHouseBeautiful-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/ShippaintingsHouseBeautiful-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Nautical, beachy or tropical artwork</span></i> <i><span style="font-size: small;">is perfect for summer staging. Photo: House 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/keywestarttropicalcoastalliving-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/keywestarttropicalcoastalliving-1.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A master bedroom can suggest an exotic retreat or vacation spot. Photo:</span></i> <span style="font-size: small;"><i>Coastal Living</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/vanessafrancisdesigndiningrm-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/vanessafrancisdesigndiningrm-1.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Even formal settings benefit in summer from some laid back furnishings like sisal rugs and painted furniture.</span></i> <i><span style="font-size: small;">Photo: Vanessa Francis Design, K West Images</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/mantelcentsgirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="527" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/mantelcentsgirl.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A fireplace mantel can reflect the mood of summer even though the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/07/how-to-stage-fireplace-when-its.html#.U54I7dgU-M8" target="_blank">fireplace is "closed for the season."</a> Photo: Centsational  Girl.</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;"></span></i><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-size: small;">I hope you'll find small and not-so-small ways to showcase the joys of summer for househunters. No matter where you live or what size, style or age your home is, there's always opportunities to "summarize" it. Doing so will help buyers imagine their summer cookouts, staycations, and celebrations at your house once they've bought it!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">If you are staging your own home (or someone elses!) my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">$5 homestaging eBooks</a> make it easy. I've been there, and I share all my tips for making a house the one buyers want.    </span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Top Photo: <a href="http://www.custom-vintage-signs.com/" target="_blank">Custom Vintage Signs</a></div><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fi951.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fad351%2F2painters%2FcollectionofprintsHGTV.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiJmPrXGgCOwP6YUgHxe-9pKhWBmifDyjTpf0jNMbb5GqOOdrRUgTLv6BepOwNQaqG9OJB-Kh152PIggGtBumeZYCk8A9cHphZ8PNBAhyQEsSQTicPa2PFFRqz1V28ixU7JxYzMd2PfF5GxhDMY9AVap6WXbVG-TDO25FYsZcpV1avNfcId6LPmX9KBCsM=" -->

Staging Your Home for the Summer Months

When people purchase a home they buy a vision of their future. And most people's vision of summer is a happy one.   Now that summertime...

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Deck Privacy Screen, Take 2, or 3?

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4VK5jRAU4-C4KEybNjL0ybOodGoYIR_P_Wt0a7b400HGNMgNGpDvdR-b_vi0ObW9ZQSL9ceHPMHnMshOlWhHGMbW6L9oAWfJojBXEhEP5VPG5ZPxqhLLMi4DFfIouTzq6QtAs_Xr3YFU/s1600/20140507_153832d2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4VK5jRAU4-C4KEybNjL0ybOodGoYIR_P_Wt0a7b400HGNMgNGpDvdR-b_vi0ObW9ZQSL9ceHPMHnMshOlWhHGMbW6L9oAWfJojBXEhEP5VPG5ZPxqhLLMi4DFfIouTzq6QtAs_Xr3YFU/s1600/20140507_153832d2.jpg" /></a></div>We have a deck that sits above the garden, and also - above most of our neighbours. <a href="http://aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.ca/2009/07/building-privacy-screen.html" target="_blank">When we first moved in, one of the things that Aubrey built me was a privacy screen for the deck</a> [top left photo].  Back then we used lattice, and left the screen it "as is" - no paint, stain. And truthfully - it weathered quite nicely. However, for some reason, perhaps a looming backyard party (more on that in another post) I decided our deck needed updating. [insert exasperated looks from Aubrey]<br /><br />We don't have the money to throw at our major improvements to our deck, nor the energy so I took it into my own hands and decided to stain the lattice <a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.ca/en-ca/paint-color/inukshuk" target="_blank">Inukshuk by Benjamin Moore,</a> a colour I adore on our <a href="http://aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.ca/2010/07/bear-chairs-done.html" target="_blank">Bear Chairs in the front</a>, hoping that this would give me the deck a refresher. [Top Right Photo]  Unfortunately,  I didn't love the colour on the lattice (whoops!) so I put on some black paint, to see how I liked the look <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/littlehouseblog/deck/" target="_blank">(after pinning some nice inspirational pictures). </a><br /><br />Thankfully Aubrey agreed to try out the black, and he also used the opportunity to switch out the diamond lattice that was previously there, with square that he felt matched the garden better (slightly more modern) and also<a href="http://aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.ca/2010/07/diy-privacy-screens-how-to-by-aubrey.html" target="_blank"> matched our other newer screens. </a><br /><br />After Aubrey cut the square lattice to size, (bottom right photo) I painted it black - <a href="http://www.dulux.com.sg/en/colour-details/deep-onyx" target="_blank">Onyx by Delux</a>  (with my sprayer) But unfortunately when we held up the black lattice where it was going to go....I <i>hated </i>it. Not because of the colour, but because there was so much distance between each of the squares that it didn't give us much privacy at all. It seemed really busy and not very relaxing. Aubrey thankfully agreed that it wasn't a great look - which helped, because he was the one doing the majority of the work.  We still had time before our party, and the investment in this project wasn't a big deal yet so Aubrey and I decided to go with horizontal boards [bottom left] that we thought would be a little more modern...<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMX1a93EQsEPa4-IY_O8BKyh4W0Q2yvBg6wg3n006Xt14xOwmDybifgw1tmhELV-O-ft_ndF_Xl2DpBGlB8U941yJiZs1rXzHFsVH__tU-j0i7EqrA9l1_2EtgT70XuGONwxqqdqBhFtQ/s1600/20140507_153832d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMX1a93EQsEPa4-IY_O8BKyh4W0Q2yvBg6wg3n006Xt14xOwmDybifgw1tmhELV-O-ft_ndF_Xl2DpBGlB8U941yJiZs1rXzHFsVH__tU-j0i7EqrA9l1_2EtgT70XuGONwxqqdqBhFtQ/s1600/20140507_153832d.jpg" /></a></div> Here is the "in between" photo - not yet done, but really, I adore it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YzqEdAv-utIPdDhUIUCR8EwstgGUlXYUu5IoXVdUX3-lizyR2AaGysspNpuOxNj_2Hk4Nn9ict_OfjesjjryKnwbjO34t7EuLqkSpHDz8YuNtMsK1KCK7oslN36YSUZBRtFADKK0knA/s1600/IMG_3881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YzqEdAv-utIPdDhUIUCR8EwstgGUlXYUu5IoXVdUX3-lizyR2AaGysspNpuOxNj_2Hk4Nn9ict_OfjesjjryKnwbjO34t7EuLqkSpHDz8YuNtMsK1KCK7oslN36YSUZBRtFADKK0knA/s1600/IMG_3881.jpg" /></a></div><br />This isn't the "after" so don't judge yet (because it looks way better now than it does above) But we're considering lighting to put on the posts - which I'll blog about next. :) xo

Deck Privacy Screen, Take 2, or 3?

We have a deck that sits above the garden, and also - above most of our neighbours. When we first moved in, one of the things that Aubrey bu...

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Year in Review: Helping You Look Ahead

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

Year in Review: Helping You Look Ahead

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

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Make This Festive Felt Wreath

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060869_zpsab596fad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060869_zpsab596fad.jpg" width="331" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">What’s not to love about a wreath? Like Santa himself, it’s round and plump and comes with interesting little surprises. You can hang a wreath on a wall or a door, or lay it flat on a table. Heck, you can even hook one on a chair, a garden gate, or a newel post. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The best ones are homemade. Try it. Let a wreath express the personality of your home – modern and glitzy, old fashioned and charming, historically accurate, or cutting edge creative. What’s your style? How can your wreath emphasize your home's special-ness?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Starting Point</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Years ago, it took me a few seasons of cranking out disappointing DIY wreaths before I realized, “It’s the base, stupid.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The way you begin the wreath is the most important element in its design. A wreath base needs to be a sturdy framework, and a good background that is handsome enough to stand alone. No skimpy grapevine circles or pine branches tied to a wire coat hanger. Give it some body.      </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">That’s why I love to use forms made of either foam or straw. Either one can be the start for this wreath made from strips of felt. It’s similar to the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/04/need-some-curb-appeal-dress-up-your.html" target="_blank">rag wreath I made for Spring</a>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Gather Supplies</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Here’s what you’ll need: </div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li>Wreath form</li><li>Felt</li><li>Ribbon</li><li>Decorative clusters </li></ul><div class="MsoNormal">The amount of felt you’ll need depends on the size of your wreath and how fluffy you want it to be. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">One thing’s for certain: it’s cheaper to purchase felt by the yard than by the “craft square.” I know your color selection will be limited because craft stores sell more felt colors than fabric stores sell. I wanted a white background for this Christmas or Hanukkah wreath.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I’ve also made felt wreaths using a combination of felt colors (see below). Felt is easy to work with because it’s so well behaved. It’s a “pressed” rather than “woven” fabric, so it doesn’t unravel and doesn’t need hemming. I chose to cut this version with pinking shears for added interest.<br /><br />Another thing is for certain: a wreath like this is a whole lot easier than the <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/12/festive-staging-prop-extrodinaire-how.html" target="_blank">felt topiaries</a> I made two years ago.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Cut the white felt into strips that measure at least twice the circumference of your wreath form. Mine measured about 1.5 inches by 18 inches. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080361_zpsb71b71f1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080361_zpsb71b71f1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">If you don't have pinking shears, no problem. Your wreath will still look pretty.<br />These babies are fairly goof-proof.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Three Layers</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The first layer on this wreath is made of quilt batting. You don’t want any of the base material showing. I liked the fluffy white background in case there were any gaps between felt ties. The batting is rather snowlike, too. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">There’s no need to secure the batting. The felt ties will hold it in place. Begin by tying one piece of felt, locating the knot slightly off center. Tie the next one snug up close to the first, with the knot slightly off center in the opposite direction. Alternating between these two knot positions makes the wreath look fuller. <br /><br />This is the kind of work you can do while you watch your favorite Christmas movie. I doubt that you can mess it up, and if you do, the knot tying is reversible and tweak-able.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br /></o:p></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080349_zps662a2d3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080349_zps662a2d3a.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Whether your base is straw or foam, covering it with a background material<br />is always a good start towards producing a really finished look. However, if your base is </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">a color similar to your felt and your ties are close together, a covering may be optional.  </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080351_zpse79f1e9b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080351_zpse79f1e9b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Off-set each knot so that they don't line up around the center of the wreath.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Place the Bow</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Once you’ve gone around the full wreath circle with felt ties, tie on a ribbon. You can make one simple loop for hanging, or tie a single bow, or a full multi-loop bow. I like the <a href="http://www.addicted2decorating.com/how-to-tie-a-perfect-bow.html" target="_blank">bow tying tutorial Kristi gave</a> on her site, Addicted 2 Decorating. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060878_zpsa6ce2c06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060878_zpsa6ce2c06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060877_zps9d27307d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1060877_zps9d27307d.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">I always place one big bow before adding everything else, even though I know some designers add the bow last. I figure it's the focal point, so why tack  it on like an afterthought?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I prefer wired ribbon over grosgrain or satin ones because the wired edges make it look perky and stay perky.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Next, I add decorative picks that I’ve either made myself or bought. Here's your chance to get as quirky, sophisticated, artsy, or funky as you like. Just remember that you don't want to add anything too valuable or too distracting. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">About Picks</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I wrote last winter about <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/11/making-greenery-wreath-for-christmas.html" target="_blank">how to wire a pick </a>with natural trimmings. Wooden picks aren’t the best way to go with felt wreaths because they don’t pierce the felt. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Instead, you can use a variety of other methods for those finishing details. You can sew on decorations (like smaller bows, buttons, ornaments, and jewelry). I like the sewing method when I plan to dis-assemble and reclaim the decorations later. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">I like to hot glue decorations like tiny toys and silk flowers onto the felt wreath when I know the wreath won’t be recycled. If you glue and want to recycle the wreath for another seasonal holiday, you can just remove the felt strip that has chunks of glue on it, and go on from there. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Thirdly, you can use straight dressmaker pins to attach decorations to the felt wreath. This method makes sense when the attachments are lightweight and would show glue or stitches. Pins hold firmly in foam, but not so well in straw. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">The blue and white winter wreath I made this year features silver ornaments and glittery snowflakes that I stitched on, pine cones and magnolia cones that I painted and glued on, and bows that I pinned on.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Finally, use scissors to give your wreath a little styling, just the way your hair stylist finishes your haircut. Snip, fluff, and you’re done.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080150_zpscf053f96.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080150_zpscf053f96.jpg" width="558" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Hang It Up</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Because felt isn’t exactly all-weather fabric, if you want to use this wreath outdoors, it needs to be in a protected area, like a porch, or on a door with a wide overhang above it.  I usually hang it on a wide plastic or metal hook, but if you are hanging it on a small nail, you might want to make a loop of fishing line on the wreath. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Hang your wreath where it will call attention to a desirable feature of your home, or perhaps dress up an empty area in a foyer or hallway, or even a decluttered bathroom. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080375_zpsde9b9496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080375_zpsde9b9496.jpg" width="482" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I like to randomly mix three shades of green for a felt wreath <br />that looks like holly. Sort of. The "berries" are wooden beads sewn on.   </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080369_zps5fae862e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1080369_zps5fae862e.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>If you have a  rotary cutter, a cutting mat, and a metal T-square, cutting felt strips </i><br /><i>for wreaths goes lickety split. These strips were cut from 9- x 12-inch felt squares.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Given a choice I’ll choose a wreath over a garland, banner, or other holiday dress-up. Felt wreaths and rag wreaths are especially easy, economical, and fun to make. That’s the kind of project that calls out to me. You too?  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Remember that a staged home – complete with a seasonal wreath welcoming visitors and prospective buyers – looks like a loved home, a well-maintained home. You can get more house-selling tips in my $5 <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook,</a> <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar</i>. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">I hope you’ll try your hand at one of these hardy, all-purpose wreaths. If so, please share your results with us here in the comments, or on our Facebook Group Page. </div>

Make This Festive Felt Wreath

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

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Best Tips for Staging Your Porch

<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/04/101067972.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2011/04/101067972.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A porch is always an added attraction. BHG photo</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><div class="MsoNormal">When I was three and my father was 30, he built a summer home so our family could spend vacations by the ocean. That’s where we went as soon as school was over, until the day before school started. I loved it. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">A few years after he built the little two-bedroom home, he added what he called a sun porch onto the south side of the house. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">It was only big enough to accommodate the four-piece rattan furniture set my parents bought for it. Three walls were windows, it was bright in there all day long, and we could watch cars and people go by. I loved it. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">A few years later, he built an open porch off the sun porch, stretching the house east, and expanding the living space by the size of an average bedroom. We could watch sailboats glide by, and from our back porch in <st1:state w:st="on">Connecticut</st1:state> we could see on the horizon another state – <st1:state w:st="on">New York</st1:state>! I loved it.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">A few more years went by, and he continued to clear the lot around the house of rocks and boulders common to seaside property. Eventually, all these broken rocks became the foundation and the walls for a terrace. He built it all himself. It stretched across the entire back of the house, and it transformed that little bungalow into what seemed like an estate. This is where we enjoyed clambakes and birthday parties for many years. I loved it. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Like most people, I have only happy memories of porches.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">What’s your porch story? </span></b><br /><br />Does your home for sale have a porch? If so, lucky you!  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Whether it’s in the front, at the side, or behind a house, a porch makes any structure appear larger, more welcoming, and more connected to the out-of-doors.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">A porch can create memories (or fantasies) of times when life was leisurely, when neighbors visited just to “sit a spell.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-CentsGirloutdoor-room-_zpsb001da3f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="546" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-CentsGirloutdoor-room-_zpsb001da3f.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2013/05/one-day-outdoor-room-makeover/" target="_blank">Centsational Girl </a>recently created this colorful patio for a friend and blogged about it .</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Or a porch can telegraph buyers that once they buy your home, they’ll have a special place where they can enjoy private time to relax and unwind – everyone’s dream!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">To other buyers, a porch is a place to entertain. Even a small balcony makes people envision inviting friends over for drinks and conversation, or a meal in the open air.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If your home has a porch and you don’t stage it, you’re missing a chance to <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2011/03/seduce-home-buyers-with-springtime.html" target="_blank">woo buyers</a>.  Here are my favorite porch-prettying pointers.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Color Counts</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Even though I recommend neutrals inside a staged home, outdoors is a place to punch it up. With brighter natural lighting and less defined boundaries, saturated colors will get the attention you want, making househunters take notice of this amenity. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Purchased outdoor furniture gets brighter each year, so you have no excuse for drab curb appeal. If you own older furniture and want to refresh it, spray paint’s probably your best option. I like Krylon's Fushion paint for plastics. If you're painting furniture with a brush, follow the steps I wrote about here: <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/painting-furniture-dont-make-these.html" target="_blank">painting furniture</a>.  </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Of course, neutral color, black, or white furniture is timeless, so don't think you need to go crazy with neon spray paint. Your color choices can align with the style of your home and the likely demographics of your typical buyer.     </div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p>  </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">View or No View</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img4-2.coastalliving.timeinc.net/i/2009/07/tbh-porch-9-l.jpg?400:400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img4-2.coastalliving.timeinc.net/i/2009/07/tbh-porch-9-l.jpg?400:400" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Shutters like these create an intimate room, and <br />could disguise a poor view. Photo: Coastal Living.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>If there’s a pleasant view either near or far, make sure buyers notice. Don’t obstruct it with large plants, curtains, or furniture.<br /><br />Position seats so they face the view, because it is not uncommon for realtors and clients to take a seat and look around, even to linger and discuss the home. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If the view from your porch is the battered work van in your neighbor’s driveway, or the brick wall of the building next door, find a way to block it or distract.<br /><br />You can install shutters, blinds, draperies, or add large potted palms. Even if the entire view isn’t totally obscured, you can still make it easy to forget what’s there.    </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Flowers and Plants</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">This one’s a must. From early spring until late autumn, and year round in some parts of the country, flowering plants on a porch are a classic. They are the finishing, colorful touches that say a home is loved. You don’t need a horticultural degree to keep most <span id="goog_725460096"></span><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/04/how-container-plantings-can-help-you.html" target="_blank">container plants</a><span id="goog_725460097"></span> looking good. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">If the home you are selling is vacant, you get a pass to substitute good quality silk ferns or artificial flowers as long as they don’t look like something from the cemetery. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Seating’s Essential </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><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://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2012/05/101555467.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2012/05/101555467.jpg.rendition.largest.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Porch seating takes many forms -- chaise lounges, rockers, stools, <br />benches, or an old fashioned, cushioned swing like this. Photo: BHG. </span></i> </td></tr></tbody></table>Whether you have room for just one chair by the door, or for a number of conversation groupings, seats on the porch complete the picture.<br /><br />Make sure there is room to maneuver around them.<br /><br />Face them towards each other or clustered around a table, not in a line as though on display in a furniture store. <br /><br /><a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/09/you-can-make-outdoor-cushions.html" target="_blank">Cushions<span id="goog_371079333"></span> </a>and <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2012/06/easy-way-to-make-your-own-decorator.html" target="_blank">pillows</a> are the easy way to add comfort and color to your porch. If your porch is protected, or you live where it doesn’t rain all summer, you have all kinds of fabric choices. The rest of us need quick-dry, outdoor fabrics that lessen the likelihood that a buyer will sit down and then leave with a wet bottom and sour mood.   </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Porch Stand-Ins</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img4-2.coastalliving.timeinc.net/i/2004/05/patios-trellace-l.jpg?400:400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img4-2.coastalliving.timeinc.net/i/2004/05/patios-trellace-l.jpg?400:400" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A porch, especially a back porch should link your interior <br />to your exterior worlds. Photo: Coastal Living. </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>No porch? Patios and decks fall into the same category. Even seating groups in the garden can be considered “porches.” Use the reminders above to make any outdoor space inviting to buyers. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">In fact, even the steps of an inner city brownstone or the small entranceway to a suburban townhouse is an opportunity to add the kinds of touches that make a buyer optimistic about your home’s interior. <br /><br />Because potted plants, all-weather carpeting, paint, fabric, and outdoor furniture are available economically everywhere, you’ve no excuse to not maximize your porch’s potential.   </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Now is the time of year to make your porch a statement area of your home. Make your porch tell a story. Stage it to capture the imagination and hearts of buyers, and you’ll be that much closer to a purchase offer.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">For more help staging your home, order my $5 <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar.</i> I know you'll be pleased. I guarantee it. I'll give you your money back if you're not totally satisfied with what you learn about staging your own home.     </div>

Best Tips for Staging Your Porch

A porch is always an added attraction. BHG photo When I was three and my father was 30, he built a summer home so our family could spend vac...

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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...

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