Your Basic Goof-Proof Color Scheme: Black and White

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/uimages/ny/7-15-square-baskets-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1891864/102010BlackWhite_04_rect540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1891864/102010BlackWhite_04_rect540.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><br />Want to make the task of choosing colors for home staging easy?  Just go with the ultimate color combination that's not technically about color at all -- black and white. <br /><br />Don't be scared off by decorators telling you that white is sterile. Forget your old notions of black and white being the stuff of silent movies, funerals and institutional bedding.  <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Fact:</b></span> White goes with everything. The trick is to pick a white that works with the non-change-able fixtures of your home -- the refrigerator, the carpeting, the painted trim, the toilet. Make a decision to go with a creamy white, or a pure bright white, or a grey white. Then, you're on easy street.<br /><br />Paint things like mismatched furniture, vases, and frames shiny black. Slipcover your sofa with white. (Learn how from Kristi at <a href="http://www.pinkandpolkadot.net/">Pink and Polka Dot</a>). Add curtains in a black and white print. Buy new white towels and duvet cover. Put white shades on all your lamps. Now you're getting somewhere. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>It's perfectly fine </b><span style="font-size: small;">t</span></span>o add some color as long as black and white predominate. There are bound to be touches of wood, and greenery, and metals here and there. If you need photos to guide you on your way, here's encouragement. <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://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1150597/sweden-cabin-01_rect540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="366" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1150597/sweden-cabin-01_rect540.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I don't think this room would be as striking if the colors were different. Yes, you can choose contrasts this bold when staging because the colors themselves are not a distraction. Notice the use of a framed black and white photograph, an ideal and economical way to play up your subtle theme. </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://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1472981/0609_black01_rect540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1472981/0609_black01_rect540.jpg" width="312" /> </a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Outdoor spaces take on a sophistication and unity with a black and white scheme. A concrete patio can be painted white to make it look new. A can of spray paint will give outdoor furniture a fresh face. Planters and flower pots and even chandeliers are easy to paint as well. </i><i><br /></i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></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://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1090444/black3_rect540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/1090444/black3_rect540.jpg" width="335" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Black and white doesn't mean stark. It's also luxurious. Many classic designs come in this combo. To nail down that luxe look, pay attention to textures. Make sure there are some glossy, reflective surfaces and some soft, inviting ones as well.  </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://www.apartmenttherapy.com/uimages/ny/7-15-square-baskets-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/uimages/ny/7-15-square-baskets-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>If Pottery Barn is doing it, it's probably good for home staging. You could DIY hack these items. An office chair, even one not made of wood, can be spray-painted white, and who hasn't converted an ugly file cabinet to something more stylish with spray paint?   </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://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/93401/02rug4-9-09_rect540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/93401/02rug4-9-09_rect540.jpg" width="323" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Strong graphics and colors like this will make your home the one house hunters remember. Did you know that you can change the colors of an upholstered chair. <a href="http://www.simplyspray.com/upholstery.html">Fabric paint</a> can turn one of your own  rejects or thrift store bargain into the star of the show.  </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>  <span style="font-size: x-small;">All photographs above:</span></i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Apartment Therapy.</i></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgop_d11umihdZTfXRLdAhjmeD6RgFdcEYLxBkjWKyFiKJxpb58FIIoW3jRrCoqHnY_TWMsbEeCi8BYlIE3OCvWNn0NOh2Khr0XsWVkxFG-QdS_qTvXmKZrXDCmRMkzwMPEwFjmqPEZyTs/s320/gjsinc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgop_d11umihdZTfXRLdAhjmeD6RgFdcEYLxBkjWKyFiKJxpb58FIIoW3jRrCoqHnY_TWMsbEeCi8BYlIE3OCvWNn0NOh2Khr0XsWVkxFG-QdS_qTvXmKZrXDCmRMkzwMPEwFjmqPEZyTs/s400/gjsinc.jpg" width="322" /></a></td></tr><tr align="center"><td class="tr-caption"><i><span style="font-size: small;">When you go with black and white, walls don't have to be white. Here, designer Gregga Jordan Smieszny gave the walls a lustrous grey finish. I like the black wall sconces. The two average-sized photographs take on added importance when given wide frames and mats.  Anything here for you to copy ? Photo: Desire to Inspire. </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://www.traditionalhome.com/images/101617301_ss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://www.traditionalhome.com/images/101617301_ss.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The same lovable color combination is the most popular way to paint a historic home (unless it's a Victorian or Craftsmen or wants to be painted historic Williamsburg colors). Black shutters, black roof, and you can't go wrong. Photo: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://www.traditionalhome.com/images/img_BierlyDrake_ss10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.traditionalhome.com/images/img_BierlyDrake_ss10.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>A black and white beginning means you can cross the finish line with some other colors entering the race as well. For home staging, analogous colors like the creams and greys above, create a more seamless room. Photo: Traditional Home</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://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQC170amWfliBLuUjyM7LN-yDLU6Ym6stGt3y79Fcso99vsr90H" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQC170amWfliBLuUjyM7LN-yDLU6Ym6stGt3y79Fcso99vsr90H" width="238" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>No matter what the architectural style or age of your home for sale, there's a black and white pattern that's a perfect fit -- polka dots, checkerboards, houndstooth, buffalo plaids, zebra stripes, chevrons, key motifs, pinstripes, diamonds, wide stripes, paisleys, toile -- all classics. Read about mixing patterns <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/11/decorating-with-patterns-101.html">here</a>. </i><i>Photo: Marimekko.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Don't let the simple, versatile popularity of black and white pass you by. Instead, harness its appeal to help sell your home. I wrote about all-white color schemes <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/05/good-go-to-color-scheme-for-staging.html">here</a>, and blue and white color schemes <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/2010/10/never-fail-color-scheme-blue-and-white.html">here</a>. Take your pick, and get staging! <br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>For more tips </b></span>about color and style selection to make your home sell, download my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebook_02.html">eBook</a>,<i> DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar</i><i>. </i>It's<i> </i>loaded with helpful advice, easy-to-follow advice that lets you stage your home yourself to appeal to home buyers.       <i><br /></i></div></div><br /><br /><br /><center><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/%20http://www.atthepicketfence.com"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwSr3lu6Nw8Mnh_-dBED2OpnB38OiHCrnKqU-7x-ECWwMfZjF70QmU59n5rSxEKrGpaUC53Bfz4nws3Vop4SbIs0tDu5giBMTpjo3bNsyvCEigy6avhO5DpoTWVufrf9wIU-m0O5N5pg/" /><br /></a></center>

Your Basic Goof-Proof Color Scheme: Black and White

Want to make the task of choosing colors for home staging easy?  Just go with the ultimate color combination that's not technically abou...

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A Very Short Course in Herb Gardening

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/book5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/book5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Even if you know zip about gardening, you can add an herb bed to your yard in an afternoon that makes your property look special.<br /><br />Okay, maybe not so it looks as full and lush as the photo at the left, but I'm here to tell you that herb gardens have an almost magic attractiveness, and at the same time, are very do-able.<br /><br />And when you are selling your home, you need all the  attractiveness you can get! <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What's the big deal</b></span> about herb plants, you ask? Well, for starters <br /><ul><li><b>Neatness counts</b>. Herbs tend to have a tidy look about them.  Most don't grow real fast, so they stay tidy. That's a plus for curb appeal if your herbs are at the front of your house.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Antiquity counts.</b> An herb bed, even a new one, makes a garden or yard look more established. Herbs have an air of permanence and maturity about them. If your house is fairly new, herbs add some character and age.   </li></ul><ul><li><b>Save money</b>. One herb plant can stand alone as a specimen in a small garden and still look interesting. You don't need a row, a bed, or a drift of the same kind of plant, which is not the case with most perennials and annuals. Many herbs look great in pots, which means you can move your garden with you when your house sells. </li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/IMG_6725.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/IMG_6725.jpg" width="323" /></a></div><ul><li><b>Assault the senses. </b>Most herbs are fragrant. Many have blossoms. All have interesting textures and colors.<b> </b></li></ul><ul><li><b>Intrigue buyers.</b> A well-designed, interesting herb garden encourages lingering. The longer house hunters spend at your property, the greater the chances of them buying.<b> </b>Even a simple herb garden makes your landscaping unique, something buyers will remember after a day of touring homes.  </li><li><b>Look like an expert. </b>Usually an herb bed has a formal structure, like a square, four squares, or a circle with quadrants, so it's easy to plant something that looks like you know what you are doing.</li><li><b>Sell the package. </b>A focal point in the bed anchors it, and can create the atmosphere that will help sell your house -- a specific sculpture, birdbath, trellis, or planter box. Outdoor focal points remind buyers that there's more than a house for sale. There's property, too! And, of course, these garden ornaments don't have to convey with your home's purchase. </li></ul><ul><li><b>Small is good, too.</b> Even if you are selling a condo or townhouse, a grouping of potted herbs or a windowbox of herbs adds a certain something, a <i>je ne sais quoi. </i>(I had to look up the spelling.) </li></ul><ul><li><b>Their beauty lasts.</b> Many attractive herbs are not only perennial but stay good-looking all year long, such as rosemary and bay laurel.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Create a sitting room.</b> A backyard herb bed, even a tiny one with a bench, suggests a destination for prospective home buyers on their tour, a new vantage point for them to observe the house and surroundings.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Herbs mingle.</b> When there are bare spots in a landscape, herb plants can be counted on to combine well. They will carpet a sparse rose bed, add another layer to a row of foundation shrubs, act as placeholders for tulips and other spring flowering bulbs, or fill the gaps between stepping stones.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Tempt buyers.</b> House hunters who are gardeners will be attracted to the idea of an already etablished herb garden, but because the usual herb garden is orderly and mulched, it doesn't look like a maintenance nightmare to house hunters who aren't into yardwork.</li></ul><ul><li><b>It's DIY-friendly.</b> No matter what kind of soil you have, or how much gardening experience you have, an herb garden looks fine and will prosper in a raised bed that you can construct yourself, and fill with the kind of well-draining soil that herbs thrive in. </li></ul><ul><li><b>They are versatile.</b> No matter what style your home is, from humble country cottage to McMansion, there's an herb garden style that's just right. </li></ul>I grow about 25 different herbs, some culinary, some medicinal, some ornamental. These are some photos from my garden. In another post, I will give a step-by-step for making a simple herb garden that will add value to your home.<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/Echinacea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/Echinacea.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Echinacea flower. You can see why I love the macro lens. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/varoregano3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="340" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/varoregano3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Although it looks color-enhanced, this is actually an accurate depiction of a certain oregano. </i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></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/Calendula.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/Calendula.jpg" width="353" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>When you start with subjects from nature, it almost feels like cheating to get good pictures. </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/Scentedgernamium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/Scentedgernamium.jpg" width="403" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I try to find images that tell a story, even if it's just a lettered sign or label.</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/societygarlicblossom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/societygarlicblossom.jpg" width="330" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Flower of a society garlic plant. I couldn't resist cropping close and enlarging it.</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/rosemaryinpot2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/rosemaryinpot2.jpg" width="384" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I deliberately put the sun behind this rosemary plant to give it a hazy look. </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://arosynote.blogspot.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/woolythyme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/woolythyme.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Closeups let you see what's not visible to the naked eye, like the tiny hairs on woolly thyme.  </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>I am linking</b></span> this post to a new Linky Party called Photo Feature Friday at A Rosy Note, so I am including these notes: My camera is a simple Cannon PowerShot A1000 IS. I will admit right here that most of the options available, I don't even use, like adjusting the tone, zoom, or changing the recording pixels. The result is I'm not always happy with my pictures. I am hoping that I can push myself to take better pictures by tuning in to Tricia's Linky on Fridays.  <br /><br />Here's what does seem to work for me. <br /><ul><li>I like to use the macro mode for a sharp focus on small details.  </li><li>I always turn the flash off. </li><li>I like to shoot early or late in the day. </li><li>I take excessive multiples of the same shot and delete all but the one I like best once I put them on my computer. Then I edit in Picasa. </li><li>I usually crop to improve the composition, and then improve the contrast with the "Fill Light" and "Shadows" options.</li><li>For indoors photos, forget nights and evenings. Nothing beats natural lighting. </li><li>Sometimes I increase the saturation a little, but often this can make a photo look cartoonish. It's amazing what a little, simple editing can do to an ordinary shot.</li><li>I carry my camera with me all the time.</li><li>When I need a blog image, don't have it and can't find it online, I resort to photographing a book or magazine picture (with appropriate credit, of course). The trick is to get even, adequate light with no glare off the page. The very top photo in this post is taken from a book cover. The book is entitled Making An Herb Garden, and the author is Catherine Mason.</li><li>The self timer and a tripod are indispensable for making good tutorials.</li><li>The only thing I don't like about my present camera is that it has a big appetite for batteries.</li></ul>I look forward to seeing what experienced photographers are doing, so I can be inspired and educated. <br /><center><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="200" src="http://i878.photobucket.com/albums/ab346/thecharmofhome/20100410_22-2-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><center><a href="http://arosynote.blogspot.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://i832.photobucket.com/albums/zz248/arosynote/Buttons/PhotoButton2.jpg" width="200" /></a></center></center><br /><br />

A Very Short Course in Herb Gardening

Even if you know zip about gardening, you can add an herb bed to your yard in an afternoon that makes your property look special. Okay, mayb...

Read more »

Fireplace Facts: Which Way Should Chairs Face and Other Dilemmas.

<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://www.traditionalhome.com/images/101601724_ss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://www.traditionalhome.com/images/101601724_ss.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Nostalgic today, but essential for heating once upon a time.</i></span> </td></tr></tbody></table>I've just returned from a local tour of historic homes. I can't get enough of these places. It's like a high for me.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>I would not want</b></span> to own and maintain any of these 200- and 300-year old houses, but walk through them? I'm first in line! I never miss our annual Spring Tour of Historic Homes and Gardens. <br /><br />Unfortunately, visitors are not allowed to photograph the interiors. One year I took a sketchbook, and scribbled line drawings and notes, but people glared at me and wondered if I was up to no good, so I didn't do that again.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>But, oh, how I wish</b></span> I could have brought you all along with me today. I think you would have been swooning with me over the priceless antiques, the gorgeous colors, the exquisite craftsmanship, the variety of architectural styles, the art collections, the floral arrangements, and even the charm of the not-so-perfectly-restored homes. <br /><br />Of course, most of these old residences have multiple fireplaces. It's common to see chairs flanking the fireplace. Sometimes these chairs face the fireplace, and sometimes they face out. Sometimes there's nothing at all near the fireplace, and sometimes all the furniture in the room is arranged in front of it.<br /><br />None of the showplaces I walked through today were homes on the market, but my tour made me think about fireplaces. I decided to blog about how to stage a fireplace to accent this asset, whether it is a wood-burning one, gas logs, or even a non-functioning one. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">If you have a fireplace </span></b>to stage, the good news is there's no right or wrong way to feature it as long as you feature it. Don't hide it behind a mountain of books, a cluster of kids toys, a jumble of media boxes and cables, or heaven forbid, a big ole piece of furniture. Here are some pointers to guide you.<br /><ul><li><b>Anchor it. </b>Make the fireplace the focal point of any staged room. People love fireplaces and they are a natural, architectural focal point. In a very large or multi-purpose room, a fireplace might be the secondary focal point, allowing house hunters the pleasure of discovering a bonus.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Add weight.</b> Start by placing the largest piece of furniture in such a way that it emphasizes the fireplace, either visible immediately when someone enters the room, directly facing the fireplace, or even perpendicular to one end of the fireplace.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Experiment.</b> Every room and every fireplace is unique. Fooling around with different pieces of furniture and different arrangements is a technique for finding the perfect grouping that even the experts use. Get your sliders out.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Refresh it.</b> When it's spring and summer, it's time to exchange the logs and fireplace tools for a seasonal touch -- flowers, a plant, or a painting that says "fresh."</li></ul><ul><li><b>Break rules.</b> If the fireplace is in the dining room or bedroom, there may not be room for the usual chairs flanking or facing the fireplace. In that case, stage the mantel to be the star of the room.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Be creative.</b> A corner fireplace can be tricky to stage. Keep the furniture pieces small to solve any traffic flow problem.  Limit the number of pieces at the fireplace to avoid a lopsided look to the room.</li></ul><ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><li><b>Stage the mantel.</b> The mantel is usually the icing on the cake. Choose accessories that emphasize the special features of your home -- contemporary prints if your home is newish or recently remodeled, charming antiques if your home is a cozy cottage, beachy items in you live near the coast, or period art work if your home is historic like the ones I got to peek into.    <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mantelsdirect.com/images/Cecilia_ForGMA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.mantelsdirect.com/images/Cecilia_ForGMA.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Don't be afraid to limit seating to one chair beside or even facing the fireplace. Keep it from looking lonely with a side table, bookcase or lamp. Photo: Mantels Direct.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><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://images.meredith.com/bhg/images/2009/09/ss_100989141.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="366" src="http://images.meredith.com/bhg/images/2009/09/ss_100989141.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Just because chairs face away from the fireplace, does not mean they detract from its importance. These two generously-sized chairs frame the fireplace. Photo: Meredith Corp.</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></li></ul><table align="center" 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://www.traditionalhome.com/images/img_fashionstatement_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.traditionalhome.com/images/img_fashionstatement_2.jpg" width="333" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The most common approach to staging a fireplace is to group the conversation area directly in front of it. But this is not a hard and fast rule.Photo:Traditional Home.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/cm/housebeautiful/images/living-room-with-kumquat-xlg-32897863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://www.housebeautiful.com/cm/housebeautiful/images/living-room-with-kumquat-xlg-32897863.jpg" width="320" /></a></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 align="left"><td></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">When a fireplace is so massive it rules the room, furniture has to be spaced accordingly to bring balance to the room. 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://www.thelennoxx.com/wp-content/uploads/3-19-kelly6.jpg.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.thelennoxx.com/wp-content/uploads/3-19-kelly6.jpg.jpeg" width="363" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">This movable, mirrored screen actually conceals a television that sits in the nonworking fireplace of a bedroom featured on Apartment Therapy. Photo: The Lennoxx</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://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/2287294/live_like_you_painted_fireplace_screen_rect540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/atimg/2287294/live_like_you_painted_fireplace_screen_rect540.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>One way to dress up an unused or off-season firebox is with a colorful screen like this, a standard screen, spray painted a fun color that ties the fireplace to the room. Photo: Apartment Therapy. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr align="center"><td><a href="http://www.coburnarchitecture.com/showcase_image/image/327/375T7475-image.jpg?1268663870" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://www.coburnarchitecture.com/showcase_image/image/327/375T7475-image.jpg?1268663870" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Two couches run perpendicular to this fireplace, as if to point to its location. Two stools near the hearth also draw attention to that end of the room. Photo: Coburn Architecture.</i></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/fireplace16-de.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/fireplace16-de.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Springtime makeover: Hydrangeas are one foolproof choice. Allowed to dry, they will stay handsome all summer long, giving the black hole of a fireplace some life. Photo: Country Living. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A fireplace is </b></span>such a selling point in a home for sale, that not staging it beautifully represents a missed opportunity. Is there a fireplace in your home for sale? Do you have it staged to sell? </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">When you order my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebook_02.html">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar, </i>you'll receive chapter after chapter of helpful hints and DIY projects to let you stage your own home on a dime. You can download it now and begin immediately to see how many economical and quick projects there are that add value to your home on the market. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Top photo: House Beautiful.</i></span></div></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Fireplace Facts: Which Way Should Chairs Face and Other Dilemmas.

Nostalgic today, but essential for heating once upon a time. I've just returned from a local tour of historic homes. I can't get en...

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A Checklist for Maintenance Problems

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/me.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Barbara made me add my photo."</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Laurie, the crafty woman at <a href="http://www.handymancraftywoman.com/">Handy Man, Crafty Woman</a> is our guest today. (Applause!) On her creative, fun blog she writes about her adventures as she and her handy hubby Rob (and their son Handy Boy) renovate, repair, and redecorate their New England home. <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> </span><br /><br /><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">They fully renovated their first home, built in the 1830s. Then they moved and did it all over again in their second home, built in the 1850's. They are now working on improving their current home, built in 1994.</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Laurie and Rob like to go antique shopping, and collect vintage Fiesta Ware. They blog about the recipes they like, decorating discoveries they make, organizing problems they solve, renovating projects they finish, the tools they use, the crafts Laurie manages to find time for, and everything in between. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Their method is for Laurie to pick out the paint colors, and then tell Rob what to do. Rob does the painting, and all the heavy lifting.    </span> </div><br />I am so happy that she is here to give you her advice on home maintenance issues. Please swing over to <a href="http://www.handymancraftywoman.com/">Laurie's site</a>, where I am guest posting today, if you want to read my thoughts on how not to remodel.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.handymancraftywoman.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="smaller banner" border="0" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/lars72/733blog%20design%20images/hmcw_01-1-1.png" /></a></div><br />Hello, I'm Laurie from <a href="http://www.handymancraftywoman.com/">Handy Man, Crafty Woman</a>. Thanks so much to Barbara for having me guest post today.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Home Staging: Don't Forget the Maintenance!</b></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><br />When you put your home on the market, there are so many things on the to-do list. You know that you must clean thoroughly, and remove excess furniture and clutter. However, you also need to pay attention to maintenance issues.<br /><br />Your house may pass the "white glove" test, but if you leave any maintenance projects unfinished, potential buyers may think "No way!" in their minds.<br /><br />Here are some areas you should examine before putting your home on the market:<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>The yard. </b> </span>The lawn needs to be mowed regularly. Trim bushes, rake leaves, and tidy up the flower beds. Potential buyers will often drive by your home in order to see what the neighborhood looks like. Give them a great first impression.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>The entry door. </b> </span>The yard may look good, but the entry door is also very important. Is the paint on your door cracked and peeling? Is the door dirty? Give it a new coat of paint, or a good cleaning.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Interior doors.</span> </b> Do the doors inside your home close? Doors to kitchen cabinets, bedrooms, bathrooms and closets should close properly. Sliding doors should open smoothly. If you have a nice deck, you want the buyers to go outside and have a look.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Outdoor features.</b></span> If you do have a deck or a pool, be sure that they are clean and maintained. These can be good selling features, and you want them to look their best. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Faucets.</b></span> In addition to cleaning, fix the sinks and shower faucets so they don't drip. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tiles. </b> </span>Do you have tiles in your home? Are they in good condition? If you aren't handy enough to chip out broken tiles and replace them yourself, you should hire a handy man to help with this. Broken tiles look shabby. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Lights.</span> </b> This may sound obvious, but do all of your lights work? Home buyers (and real estate agents) will often turn on lights in your home, so they can really see each room. Make sure that any burnt out light bulbs are replaced, and that all light fixtures are in working order.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Unfinished projects. </b> </span>You know what I'm talking about: The trim that is not complete; the new cabinet knobs that haven't been installed, etc. Go around your home and make a list of unfinished projects. Now is the time to finish them!<br /><br />You can clean and declutter your home when you put it on the market, but don't ignore these basic maintenance issues. Home buyers look at broken and shabby items, and may wonder what else you have been ignoring. Take care of these issues, and let potential buyers imagine themselves moving right into your home.

A Checklist for Maintenance Problems

"Barbara made me add my photo." Laurie, the crafty woman at Handy Man, Crafty Woman is our guest today. (Applause!) On her creat...

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Insider Tips: Notes From a Blue Collar Gal

<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/money3-1.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/money3-1.jpg" width="356" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>How one client paid us.</i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Every homeowner bumps into situations when DIY is a DDI -- a "don't do it."<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">I'm talking about</span></b> the times when you just have to hire the Big Guys, the ones with all the latest tools, the manly truck, and sometimes the proper local or state certification. They are the ones who have been doing it --  wiring, plumbing, roofing, landscaping -- for years.<br /><br />This post if for those times. I am going to tell you how to deal with these people. I know because I am one of these people. I am a housepainter.<br /><br />I might wear pink overalls, but I'm a blue collar worker. Housepainters rank pretty darn low on the status scale of trade people in the construction field. I'm not going to quote Rodney Dangerfield here, but you know what I'm talking about.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">I like to think that</span></b> I always give every client the best service I can. But if I am honest, I'll admit that the people who have treated me well when I worked for them, even though I am "just the painter," are the people I was happy to go that extra mile for.<br /><br />While I can't endorse befriending every member of every crew doing work around your home, it helps to remember that a little kindness goes a long way.<br /><br />Here are my tips to having a productive, satisfying relationship for both you and any helpers you hire.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tip #1</b></span><br /><b>Learn their names.</b> if they will be at your house for more than a few days. First names are usually sufficient unless you are building an ongoing relationship or need to know the name that goes on the check. I remember one woman who hired Mr. Lucky and me to paint her home -- and then her son's home, her church's office, her next home, and her rental property (love that!). Whenever someone came to her home while we were there, she actually introduced us, using both first AND last names. She flattered us by showing us respect, simply by using our names. Lesson: It's the little things that create a bond between people.  <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tip #2</b></span><br /><b>Make them feel welcome.</b> Say hello to acknowledge their arrival and let them know you are home. In the South where I am, the custom is to always engage in a little small talk in all business situations. To not banter a bit is considered rude.<br /><br />Some people give in-house workers the message that they are not trusted. Don't do this. If you have questions about the honesty or ethics of people in your house, you have hired the wrong people. I am not suggesting that you leave cameras, money, and jewelry about when having your bathroom re-tiled by a couple of men you never met before. Be smart, but don't demonstrate paranoia and distrust.<br /><br />How do you find trustworthy and capable tradespeople? Ask your realtor for the names of good people. Or ask other tradespeople. For instance, a carpet cleaning service man will probably know who lays good carpet, and a painter will know a good carpenter. You can also ask fussy friends and neighbors for the names of people they have been pleased with.   <br /><br />We have painted for people who do not leave the room we are working in. They may be lonely, or they may be distrustful. If you have hired tradespeople, greet them, and then remove yourself. Not only is it a distraction to have to carry on a conversation, but workers may feel you are trying to learn how they do what they do, so that next time you can DIY and save the money. It makes you look like you wish you didn't have to hire them.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tip #3</b></span><br /><b>Make them feel appreciated.</b> In one small house where we were painting, the homeowners were home all day. Each day when their daughter returned from school, they baked cookies. Of course the scent of chocolate chips, sugar and butter filled the place. Did they ever offer us one? They did not. Did we feel appreciated? We did not. Did we adjust our schedule so we could do more painting for them when they called us again? No. We're not mean, but when push comes to shove, people go where they are appreciated. Lesson: The Golden Rule is still good business.   <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/snacks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/snacks.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Cheese, crackers, grapes, jellybeans!</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Can you tell I love cookies?<br /><br />The woman who paid us with gift-wrapped cash in a thank you card last week (photo above) also set out a snack and coffee buffet just for Mr. Lucky and me that was so unusual in its graciousness, I had to take a photo (right). While this example is definitely over the top, the message was clear: "We appreciate you."<br /><br />You absolutely don't have to go to this extreme, but...just saying... <br /><br />Doughnuts are always a big hit with workers. A dozen doughnuts buys you a whole lot of feel good.  <b> </b><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tip #4</b></span><br /><b>Make them comfortable.</b> I don't know if you have ever been in a stranger's home for the whole day. It can be a delicate situation. Workers aren't guests, but they aren't robots either. They will appreciate it, for example, if you tell them when they start a job, where the bathroom is, where they can get water, and what door you want them to use for coming and going. In some states the law requires you provide an outside portijohn when the number of persons on site reaches a certain number.<br /><br />Are conditions comfortable for working? Tradespeople are used to working around debris and dust, and in extreme heat and cold. But you can still be the hero by providing an environment that is uncluttered and at a sensible temperature as much as is practical. Let them have what they need in order to do their job well.<b> </b><br /><br />At the same time, if the person you are hiring will be coming back on a regular basis, a housekeeper or a lawn maintenance person for example, you need to establish businesslike protocol at the beginning of the relationship. If you are too casual about the work that needs to be done, you may find your cleaning person or pool cleaning serviceman expects to have coffee and half an hour of conversation before beginning work. Lesson: Be friendly but don't be friends.<b> </b><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tip #5</b></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b>Praise their work</b>.  Even if you are not totally happy with the job being done, find something you like. If you have complaints, let them know that, too. And don't wait until the job is done to express discontent. If you are considering a number of options at the start of your project, ask for their opinions. Experts and professionals usually like to hear the question, "What would you do?" because it signifies that you value their experience. You can still do it your way, or decide on an approach better than either you or the professional hadn't thought of previously.<br /><br />Clients often ask me to help them make decisions about color or finishes. Some ask about painting-related problems, like removing mildew from a roof (trim the tree branches back to let light in, and sprinkle the roof with laundry powder). Asking opinions is one way to acknowledge expertise.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpMmTgX7w-A45ghnzwUM17efyp_hzy0Rn8L8zNcHlN10Q2vkIiBZYBTwYJnnsIqXeSg4QuTOkLEm2eOAb3Fd3rs8dvc0nvaiWsOvcoFyHtP_XVnuqXfWGmCNDSZLRD66d3PxcgPqvjPeo/s200/ebook_cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpMmTgX7w-A45ghnzwUM17efyp_hzy0Rn8L8zNcHlN10Q2vkIiBZYBTwYJnnsIqXeSg4QuTOkLEm2eOAb3Fd3rs8dvc0nvaiWsOvcoFyHtP_XVnuqXfWGmCNDSZLRD66d3PxcgPqvjPeo/s200/ebook_cover.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>Next time you need to hang up your DIY tool belt, and bring in a contract worker, whether it's an air conditioning repairman, an electrician, a floor re-finisher, or some other hard working soul, follow my advice, and I think you will see better communication and better workmanship.<br /><br />Maybe even a better price.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>I can offer you </b></span>many more tips to make selling your home a positive experience. My <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook,</a> <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar</i>, will provide answers, inspiration, buying guides, and how-tos for everything from arranging furniture to curb appeal and everything in between. It's quick and easy to download. Why wait? I can start today to help you stage to sell.

Insider Tips: Notes From a Blue Collar Gal

How one client paid us. Every homeowner bumps into situations when DIY is a DDI -- a "don't do it." I'm talking about the...

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An Easy Way to Dress Up the Ordinary Office Chair

<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/before3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/before3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>This is the chair that drove me to it. </i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>A home office is a selling feature when you stage to sell.<br /><br />If you want your home to look more contemporary, and more accommodating in general, look for where you can tuck a home office into your house. It needn't be large, just somewhere a person can sit and take care of business, a spot that’s not the dining table or the kitchen counter.    <br /><br />Really, a home office can be staged in just one corner of a bedroom, family room, or living room.<br /><br />Often there is a place for a small office on a stair landing, in a wide foyer, or in the unused space under a staircase.<br /><br />A table or desk, maybe some shelving or bookcase, and you’re there. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ever since we</b></span> brought home this ugly, hunter green office chair from Staples about 12 years ago, I’ve hated it. The  manufacturers may have spent money when they studied the ergonomics of the chair, but they sure ignored the glamour-omics. <br /><br />Today, I decided to do something about it. I’m not the first one to pretty up an executive chair. Teresa at <a href="http://cozycottageslipcovers.blogspot.com/">Cozy Cottage Slipcovers</a> is a pro, and so is Kristi at <a href="http://www.pinkandpolkadot.net/">Pink and Polka Dot</a>. I covered my ugly chair in a couple of hours, doing very little actual sewing.<br /><br />I have a glue gun, and I'm not afraid to use it.  <br /><br />Here’s how I beautified my chair and how you can quickly and easily do the same to your ugly chair. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Get Fabric</span>.</b>  I found a piece of upholstery fabric in my fabric stash. I made sure there was enough to cover both sides of the back and generously wrap around the seat. You should use something heavier than drapery weight or “dress weight,” to make sure you don’t end up with a mess o’ wrinkles after you’ve been sitting on it. An upholstered look rather than a slipcovered look, will stay neater, which is better for home staging. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Make Pattern. </b></span>I laid ugly chair on its back on a flattened sheet of newspaper. I traced a line about two inches out from the edge of the entire backrest, to allow for seaming and for the thickness. I set the chair upright again. I cut out the paper pattern.  <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Cut Fabric.</span></b> I cut two layers of fabric using the newspaper pattern. Then I laid a square of fabric over the seat and cut a few inches out from the seat, so I could wrap it all the way to the bottom of the seat.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Pin Back Cover</b>.</span> I still didn’t know I was going to blog about this project, so I didn’t take pictures of these steps. I wrapped the backrest with the two back fabric pieces, inside out, and pinned them together, adjusting the seams so the new cover would fit snug, but loose enough for me to pull it off. I pulled it off, and sewed the front to back, turned it right side out, and pulled it back over the chair. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Stitch Back Closed</b>.</span> I pinned the bottom edges of the back cover, and slip stitched the opening at the bottom closed. I didn’t fuss with this stitching because it won’t really be visible.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pincorner1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pincorner1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This is the underside of the backrest, and I have pinned front to back, ready for slip stitching. </i></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Wrap the Bottom Piece</b>.</span> I laid the other square of fabric on the seat, smoothed it, and pinned it  around the edges to hold it in place. I flipped the chair over and started hot glueing the fabric to the bottom of the seat. I set the seat of the chair on a lidded kitchen garbage can to make it easier to work on. A stool would also serve. You can't put it on a large work surface because the arms and back get in the way.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pinseat2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/pinseat2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You can see I have stuck pins around the seat edge to hold the fabric in place when I flip the chair. </i><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/gluegood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/gluegood.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>To make the seat fit smoothly,  I first glued the seat in four places -- the center of each side. Then I glued small sections at a time, easing the fabric so there were no big puckers. </i><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/glueallaroundfini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/glueallaroundfini.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Gradually, all the raw edges will be glued down. The edges can remain raw as long as the glue keeps loose threads out of sight. We're not talking heirloom quality here. </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/fini3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/fini3.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This is my new sewing, computing, watching television chair. It was always good for long term sitting, now it's good for looking at, as well.  </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>I set the chair upright, and I was done. Goodbye ugly, hello floral. With a chair this pretty, that little home office you’re creating for staging looks inviting, and gets your message to buyers that this is a home that is loved and where they can be comfortable.  <br /><br />If these chairs didn’t cost about $100 each at Staples, I would recommend buying and covering a set of four or six for a dining room staging. They would be comfortable and stylish. Usually by the time an office chair makes it to the thrift store, it's shot. And chances of finding more than one matching office chair second hand are slim. But one for a home office? Perfect!  <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>There are so many ways</b></span> I can think of to fluff up your home when you are ready to sell, that I put them into one place -- a book. You can download my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebook_02.html">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar</i>, right now. I’ll take you from start to finish of home staging. Why go it alone when I can hold your hand, encourage you, save you from mistakes, and show you how to save money? Downloading takes just a few clicks and you can begin preparing your own home for the real estate market today.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/lars72/733blog%20design%20images/featured_button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/lars72/733blog%20design%20images/featured_button.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1133.photobucket.com/albums/m585/kimaar1/birdbutton4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1133.photobucket.com/albums/m585/kimaar1/birdbutton4.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9xbYG85ISyGFFmFenTNUVoEO4V4KOWfW7ANvLkiFD4rSX0HuhpYitJaCu4lrewlB8TYZa4YF7FT2vD-zIyKHjkOp3ACST-EntBZVJAuvk4YksOJ9RQJdCoQnW-oCe3zOYWVAzVUzJww/s1600/smallsnsstars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9xbYG85ISyGFFmFenTNUVoEO4V4KOWfW7ANvLkiFD4rSX0HuhpYitJaCu4lrewlB8TYZa4YF7FT2vD-zIyKHjkOp3ACST-EntBZVJAuvk4YksOJ9RQJdCoQnW-oCe3zOYWVAzVUzJww/s1600/smallsnsstars.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i456.photobucket.com/albums/qq286/happielife32/JSIWU_BUTTON.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i456.photobucket.com/albums/qq286/happielife32/JSIWU_BUTTON.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/button2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="85" src="http://www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/button2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr283/StacyRisenmay/linkypartybutton-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr283/StacyRisenmay/linkypartybutton-1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff267/MommasPrimitives/linkypartybutton-1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff267/MommasPrimitives/linkypartybutton-1-1.jpg" /></a></div>                                   

An Easy Way to Dress Up the Ordinary Office Chair

This is the chair that drove me to it. A home office is a selling feature when you stage to sell. If you want your home to look more contemp...

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How to Clean Your House Like a Professional

<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-P1040688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://i951.photobucket.com/albums/ad351/2painters/1-P1040688.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The pros use only what works.  What do they use? </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Home buyers love a clean home.<br /><br />Yes, location.<br /><br />Yes, price.<br /><br />Yes, view.<br /><br />Yes, square footage.<br /><br />Yes, staged closets and uncluttered rooms!<br /><br />But unless clean is in the mix, they won’t fall in love with your home on the market. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">To discover what tricks</span></b> I could learn about cleaning, I went to the pros. I went to the <a href="http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/cleaning/">Cleaning Tips Forum</a> on That Home Site. That's where I gathered up for you, my readers, the best professional tips to make cleaning your home easier. Because you already have enough (more fun) stuff to do to get your home staged to sell.<br />  <br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">STAINLESS.</span></b><b> To clean stainless steel surfaces. </b>Use either Stainless Steel Magic or Zep foam. The professional cleaners and others appreciate that Zep clings to vertical surfaces and has a nice, citrus scent. Some people commented that Stainless Steel Magic helps repel fingerprints. That's welcome news. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>SHOWER.</b> </span><b>To clean the area where glass shower doors overlap.</b>  Use a small disposable, sponge paint brush. Almost any cleaning solution will work with the sponge. Rinse and store the brush where it can dry out between uses. Glass shower doors that ride in a track are easily removable if you have some muscle. Just lift up, and out. Even I can do it. Just make sure you have a handy place to set the door before you go yanking it.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">TUB. </span></b><b>To clean non-slip strips on the floor of a tub or shower.</b> Use WD-40 and a stiff scrub brush. Also recommended is a product called TRR, which stands for toilet ring remover. You can find TRR in most drug stores or WalMart.<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://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT7m18VTTdPeWWoZV6Sl_2jeJQyDjXGC7fnQ2Nnun3suJ3RWLtOuQ" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT7m18VTTdPeWWoZV6Sl_2jeJQyDjXGC7fnQ2Nnun3suJ3RWLtOuQ" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Choose spray, aerosol, or wipes.</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>MICROFIBER.</b></span><b> To clean microfiber upholstered furniture pieces.</b> Mix a 1/4 cup powdered oxygen cleaner in a bucket of very warm water. Wring out a cloth in this solution, and wipe the microfiber fabric with the cloth. As the cloth get dirty, use a new one. Allow the fabric to dry thoroughly, then take a soft brush, and brush the material to revive the nap.  <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">GROUT. </span>To clean grout.</b> Borrow or buy a steamer, also called a pressure steamer. There are no chemical fumes, it’s quick, and you don't need to lug a variety of solvents from room to room. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>FLOOR.</b></span><b> To clean asbestos floor tiles.</b> Cover with a layer of commercial 3M floor stripper, available at janitorial supply stores, and let it work according to directions. Or you can apply straight 409 cleaner with a long-handled scrub brush, and let it sit until the dirt is loosened. Make sure you have adequate ventilation. Use a wet /dry shop vac to pick it up. All the old grime and wax will come up.  Wax it with a wax made for vinyl flooring. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">GLUE.</span> To remove sticky residue </b>after peeling away self-sticking shelf liner. Apply rubbing alcohol on a cotton cloth to dissolve the glue. WD-40 also works on glues. <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">BOWL RING.</span> To get rid of a persistent ring around inside the toilet bowl.</b> Use a pumice stone, but be sure to keep it wet and rub gently to avoid scratching the porcelain surface. A black emery board or drywall sanding paper work the same way. Bar Keeper’s Friend is a good stain remover because it contains oxalic acid. Disinfect the bowl first with bleach or Lysol, and use rubber gloves.    <br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">WINNER.</span> Best Cleaning Procedure Tip: </b>Start from the top when cleaning any room, and work down, whether dusting, vacuuming, or wiping. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>WINNER.</b></span><b> Best Cleaning Technique Tip:</b> Always wipe surfaces first with a dry microfiber cloth. Then, clean them with the correct solution, sometimes water, sometimes degreasers, sometimes solutions that polish. Wetting a surface just turns whatever is there to mud. Loose dirt is easier to remove than mud.<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://www.comparestoreprices.co.uk/images/po/polti-eco-pro-3000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.comparestoreprices.co.uk/images/po/polti-eco-pro-3000.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Steam cleaners are popular </span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">because they clean green.</span></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">WINNER.</span> Favorite Products and Tools of Professional Cleaners:</b> Microfiber cloths (to catch and trap dirt and other loose particles), steam cleaners (to sanitize hard surfaces), Bar Keepers Friend (to remove organic stains), baking soda (for mild abrasion and deodorizing), Dawn dishwashing liquid (to cut grease), Magic Eraser (to clean smooth surfaces of almost anything), Bona floor cleaner (for wood floors), and WD-40 (for all kinds of things, as evidenced <a href="http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/household/wd-40.asp">here</a>). <br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Cleaning Tips Forum</b></span> is part of the Garden Web, an easy-to-use website that's part of  iVillage. You can search for particular answers, share information, or ask questions. Be sure to check out the <a href="http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/realestate/">Buying and Selling Homes Forum</a> at That Home Site also. You can connect with other homeowners who are selling their homes, get encouragement, and research just about any topic related to real estate.  <br /><br />At these forums, you'll see what other sellers are saying about clean homes. Clean homes feel good and they sell better. The best part is that cleaning is one of the least expensive DIY home improvement projects out there.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Do you want </b></span>to make quick and easy work of giving your home that "open house sparkle" from top to bottom? In my <a href="http://diyhomestagingtips.blogspot.com/p/ebooks.html" target="_blank">eBook</a>, <i>DIY Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home Fast and For Top Dollar</i>, I outline a simple, efficient and effective method to get your home clean and keep it that way. You can download the book now with just a few clicks. You'll find that it's packed with advice about DIY staging, it starts paying for itself immediately. I guarantee it!<br /><br /><br /><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>

How to Clean Your House Like a Professional

The pros use only what works.  What do they use?  Home buyers love a clean home. Yes, location. Yes, price. Yes, view. Yes, square footage. ...

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