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!

The talk of the town! DOMINO has been cut!

As all of you design-minded folk now know (and if you haven't heard, I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news), domino has recently announced that it will no longer be publishing their magazine.The first issue premiered 4 years ago and I bought it right off the magazine stand. It became an instant favorite, pushing Elle Decor out of the #1 slot ( recently I renewed my subscription and I love Elle Decor, but it is a different kind of love!). I immediately sent my subscription in without a moments hesitation. As a decorator, I attribute much of my growth to domino. Not because it taught me anything per se about decorating, but because it showed me that eclectic decorating has a niche. My own personal style, which is very unique, reflects the homes showcased in domino. One striking difference, though, is that I decorate at a fraction of the cost! Over the years I have accumulated what I would call "beautiful junk". I am a huge fan of finding a bargain, sifting through piles of discarded items, and repurposing whatever I could find to bring new life to my space. With a creative eye and a love of aesthetics, you can pull it all together, even when you are working on a budget. In short, decorating is truly an art and the process is inspiring , regardless of how much money you spend. Kudos to domino! The magazine delivered us rooms with great style coupled with personality. Wonderful recipes that are a cinch to pull off and taste fabulous. Articles galore! I am so sad to see it go. I know it sounds silly, but it has been a true friend to me. Even though this site is predominately for my business, 2 P's in your Pad, I like the idea of treating it like a magazine and look forward to making it such. On that note, I will sign off with....Dream. Create. Share. Inspire.

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!