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.                                              

                                                          

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

Mix & Match Glassware

When it comes to your glassware set, there's no need to have matching sets... mixing and matching is Fun! It makes life a lot easier... You'll no longer anguish over that dropped wine glass, smashed tumbler, or the shattered water goblet. No more is the need for chintzy wine charms... each of your guests will get to choose a glass of their liking, and be able to identify it easily. The next time you're in the market for glassware try shopping the "onesies” or clearance rack, you will be able to come up with a distinctive collection all of your own. And, the next time you drop one you won't even bat an eye! You'll actually look forward to adding to or completing your set! When seeking your collection, keep your eyes peeled for various shapes and sizes. Take a mental note of what you already have and what may be lacking, keeping in mind the types of drinks you like, as well as those you typically serve. Keep it simple and seek out solely clear glass or search with a theme in mind. My friend Maura recently completed her current collection and decided that she would add to it with a search for oddball wedding glasses. They’ll make for an interesting and quirky collection.

Eclectic Decorating

Take an Elizabethan print, pair it with a 1950's wallpaper, add a colorful 1960's pop art mobile, throw in a couple of milky white statues that have an Asian flavor, and round it all off with clear apothecary glass jars. Sounds like a mouthful? Well, visually it works! Eclectic is defined as the "showing or indicating careful judgment or discernment especially in matters of taste; the discriminating eye of the connoisseur". In my opinion, you don't have to be a connoisseur to create a home with heart. I believe that a more down to earth approach which simply incorporates the things you are drawn to will do the trick. The thing about Eclectic style is it allows you the freedom to experiment and take from many different elements to create your own personal decorating stamp. I believe that a home should reflect ones distinct personality. Instead of buying into a preconceived notion of what decorating is or what you think others will respond to, choose items that inspire you. A home space of comfort and approachability will follow. This is what makes a home feel like a home!