Say NO to antlers... Hello, to Staghorn Ferns!

I have always found myself EERILY attracted to mounted antlers. On the other hand, I have always felt slightly morally conflicted about them. I don't think I would be able to forgive myself if I were to actively seek out a set, but may be tempted by a flea market find! Yesterday, while out perusing the local garden center, I came across what will be the answer to my moral dilemma: a mounted stag-horn fern! They are so much more interesting than any rack of antlers I could come across. And, best of all, I can make it MYSELF! I foresee a project day in the near future. I think I will plan a visit to the nearby "driftwood graveyard", as I lovingly refer to it, although I do love the refined look of the classic mount! I think that they would  look equally stunning going solo, or in a grouping, as seen here. The amazing mounts pictured here were created by California based artists Sean and Stacy Kelley, and aptly named: a call to arms.                                              

                                                          

Winter has me feeling the BLUE's... and I'm LOVIN' it!

 

Rubber Stamping: Embellish your Hand-made Crafts!

On a recent organizing kick, I came upon a bag of rubber stamps in my daughters art supplies and I said to myself, "Where did these come from?". Within minutes, I was sitting on the floor marveling at the pieces. I was transported back in time when I would wander into the Hello Kitty store (while my parents shopped the "box stores") and fondle all the teeny, cutesy objects that smelled like bubblegum. I had to touch everything; I wanted it all! For me, rubber stamps are a grown up version of Hello Kitty. They come in all sorts of designs and are used in hand-made crafts. Note cards, invitations, gift-wrapping, tea-towels, candle-holders, just about anything... the sky is the limit! The owl hang-tags were created by White Fluff Designs. The Birdcage Stamp Set can be found at Yellow Owl workshop. The "Save the Date" stamp is from The Mayberry Sparrow. Last, but not least, this dainty bird stamp by Norajane. Also, check out the fantastic pillows that Norajane has created... they are super cool! Enjoy!

                                                              

  

                                                                       

Forcing Spring... Bulbs, that is!

Mid-winter has arrived and I'm already itching for spring...with the lengthening of the days there is a glimmer of hope, a taste of what's to come. So, why not speed things up a bit and bring some spring indoors? Forcing bulbs is a simple process, and you'll be rewarded with lovely blooms and fragrant scents. The savvygardener and thegardenhelper both have great diy information, as well as recommendations for bulbs to try. As for containers, the sky is (practically) the limit, so go ahead and force spring...bulbs that is!

Felt: Simple, Sustainable Living!

Felt is a non-woven cloth produced by matting, condensing, and pressing woolen fibers. The use of felt has become widely popular with designers who advocate for an eco-conscious lifestyle. Check out  some of my favorite arty creations. These colorful felt cushions from Canvas are so appealing! I love how simple and earthy they are. I want to build a whole room around them! This felted lamp shade by MIXKO is a work of art. The butterfly cut-out detailing is to die for! I adore these petite felted beach pebbles hand-made by Delica on Etsy,and felted bowls by hold: modern crochet goods.

It is all about Bohemian!

I absolutely love this Bohemian look. Just look at the way all those vibrant colors pop against the white washed walls and dark wood poster bed. Different textures and prints give this bedroom a modern, ethnic flair. The thing that is the most striking, however, is the simplicity of the space. It is so crisp and inviting! 

Create the look without spending a fortune:

1. Tapestries are an economical way to use fabric. They come in varying sizes, colors, and styles. Use the fabric as a bed covering, sew up some contrasting pillows, and cut some lengths for curtains. Experiment with the colors and designs as you choose.

2. Look for decor that has a world feel to it... think India.  Pier One Imports (Homeport, if you live in Burlington!) is a great place to find decor with an ethnic flare. But, if you are like me, head to your local donation center & shop second hand stores. You will be amazed at the items you can find!

dug Nap: Art that is quirky and to the point!

I recently purchased this dug Nap print for my hubbie. This was my not-so subtle, humorous way of reminding him to "put down the toilet seat" after using the bathroom. He laughed, then countered by saying, "Leave up the toilet seat". Well, touche'!

I know that I am not the only one battling with this phenomenon, but I bet that if positioned correctly (and beautifully framed in a honey toned wood), this print will subliminally train him to do as I  please!

The artist, dug Nap, has some fantastic art that comes right out of my hometown in Vermont. His folk art style is often characterized as "outsider art". His honesty and dark, fun sense of humor makes for a great gift.

Check out his artwork at :

 http://www.dugnap.com/index.html