Dining Room Hutch Makeover

Projects are what get me thru the winter months.  The cabinet you see here is a two piece unit. The top portion is large curio cabinet with glass shelves, mirrored back, I will show you this redo later, its still in the garage.

Anyway, I took them apart, and sanded the bottom portion down heavily.  I have never really loved this piece as it was, but I've always thought it had really nice lines, and if I could decide on a finish, it would probably be a beauty when I was done. 

So a few weeks ago began tackling it. 

I was planning using the same aluminum leaf on it as I used on the turquoise tray show here now sitting on top of the hutch base.  After everything I read, it said to put a base coat on, before you apply the sizing liquid. 

I decided to apply a metallic silver coat, that way if the aluminum leaf didn't cover all the areas it wouldn't be a noticable as it was on the turquoise tray. 

Here is a shot after the first coat. I propped the piece up on wood blocks, as I didn't have anyone to help me move it.  The plan is to get the carpet ripped out this winter and put in handscrapped hardwood floors. So if I get any drips, well that's just more motivation to get the carpet ripped up! ;)

Change of plans.  As I applied the base metallic coats I began to like the way it was shaping up.  I did four coats of silver metallic inside and out.

Then I took 2parts raw umber and 1part glaze and stir well.  I wiped this on and then right back off, using cheese cloth.  Its important when doing this step to do it in one long  motion to cover the area you are working on.  That way the glaze doesn't bunch up in areas.  If this does happen, just lightly swipe over the area so that you remove it, without having to reapply to the whole area.  The raw umber just tones down the shine a little and in my opinion makes it look more opulent, like real silver.

I really LOVE the way it has turned out.

I feel like now its the special sparkle in the room. Just a little something to make the room seem like its celebrating us when we are in it! :)

The next project I'm contemplating, is gilding the chairs.  I'm nervous about doing the edges around the fabric, but after working with the leafing I think it is totally doable. If I mess up its ok because I really want to get rid of them anyway! ;)  

Doesn't the new hutch look perfect in this holiday setting. I'm also now in search of an 80" glass table top. Oh the plans swimming in my head. ;)

By the way, the metallic silver paint that I used on the hutch was a 16oz $4 bottle from Michaels in the craft section. It goes really far.  The glaze I already had on hand from various other projects. So this basically cost me $4 for the paint, $10.00 for the crystal handles I choose, and well I didn't even crack a sweat - its cold here you know. I still may add handles for the bottom, haven't quite found what I'm looking for, so I will just keep my eyes open.  I actually kind of like it just plain without any additional bling.

Very inexpensive way to turn this into something I now love!

Blowing thru the JASMINE in my mind...........

I'm not sure anyone really knows how much I LOVE LOVE LOVE the smell of fresh Jasmine.  There is something about that scent that is completely intoxicating to me.  For some reason it reminds me of vacation.  As soon as I smell it I perk up and am in a better place. 

Awhile ago when shopping for vitamins, I found they also sold essential oils there.  Low & behold they had the Jasmine Essential Oil.  Open the cap and Mmmm the smell takes me to that place instantly.  It was 7.99 fo the bottle, which at first glance might seem like a lot, but you only have to use drops or half drops when putting it on. At first I was rubbing it on my wrist everyday, crazy I know but if it makes you happy well... you know the rest. DO IT

So yesterday I was at Michaels picking up more silver paint for my hutch redo, and I found these little spray bottles.  I immediately thought, perfect size.. I can make some homemade air freshner!

So in literally less than 5minutes this morning. I gathered a 3 items, the bottle, vodka, & the Jasmine oil.

I put about 20drops of Jasmine oil in the bottom of the bottle, then I took some old cheap Vodka, and poured it in the same bottle, shake well, and let sit for a minute. 

Voila, a really inexpensive air freshner or perfume, that I can't get enough of.  :)

The awesome thing with this recipe is, essential oils come in all scents.  Many have aromatherapy benefits.  Choose the one you love and follow the steps above. 

These would also make inexpensive hostess gifts, etc.  Get a pretty bottle, make a nice label, a little bit of ribbon. Today I went down the Vodka aisle at the grocery store and found you can get quite a nice size bottle for 3.99.  A bottle that size along with some essential oil could make several dozens of these. 

I so love this project. My whole house smells like fresh vacation.  I'm thinking I'm going to go back and pick up some lemon oil.  Another clean fresh smell I love.  Lavendar would be great in guest room, as Lavendar provides a cozy and restful benefit. 

If you try this, let me know what scents of essentials oils you love best.  Now I'm going to start looking for some pretty bottles, so I can keep this all over the house.  Can you tell I'm in love. :)


NOTE:  Another quick way to use a few drops of essential oil is to put it on a cotton ball and then wipe on to your lightbulbs. When your turn on the light, it will emit the smell.  Also works on candles, sprinkle a little bit and when you light them, it will also give off the scent.

Great Green way to freshen up your home.

Silver Vase

More silver leaf. I love the vases that I'm seeing in all the magazines.  I picked up this clear glass vase for a buck from the dollar store, and used few sheets of Aluminum leaf  inside of it, and voila I love the way it turned out!

Vanity Tray Redo

I decided to repurpose this turqoise plastic tray that I used for an "Easter Basket" so long ago.  Since I'm into the silver finishes, I decided I would try my hand at gilding.  I had help my dad Gold leaf a large floor to ceiling mirror when I was a young girl, and remember it to be a tedious yet very rewarding process.  As much as I love silver, I decided to use Aluminum leaf, because it never tarnishes, and the finish is a little brighter, which works great when you want to tone it down with a little raw umber & black glaze. 

 Here is what I did. I put the sizing liquid on it, and let it set up for 12hrs.

From everything I read, I knew it was a messy project. So I got a garbage bag and cut it open, and began.  As  you can see the silver/Aluminum is very thin

I bought a book of 500 sheets. They actually go quite far, i only used the first pack (25sheets per pack) to do the entire tray and still had 5 sheets left in the pack.

Carefully layout each piece onto the already sized surface. You can smooth out with a paint brush, or use your hands. I like to use my fingers as I felt like I had more control.  My surface had small edges, handle cutouts, and lip where the plastic went in and out, using my fingers I was able to use more of the leafing in these areas without wasting it.  I used a brush at the end to smooth the areas.

Here is the finished result.

I love it!

Metallic Cabinet Redo

I love some of the mirror furniture finishes out there. I have always been a silver girl at heart.  I also have comtemplated many times what I could do to my vanity to update it, until I replace it.  I have been considering moving walls, and now and addition which has kept me stuck from doing anything. The floor which I want changed, the vanity, the sink, the closet, etc.  If I knock walls down and or do an add on, it seems so pointless to make any kind of real changes right now.  I also have been wanting more storage, so I decided to just buy a unfinished wood cabinet that I could paint and get some of the creative urge out of my system. 

So I went to Lowe's picked up a cabinet, then I went to Michael's and picked up a bottle of silver Metallic craft paint, 16oz.  and the creating began.  You just can't imagine how much I love doing stuff like this. 

I forgot to get a before shot, but just think of a completely unfinished cabinet, and here is the after...

I wish that it was a little taller.  I would like to rip those bright vanity lights down, but I really have no idea how to do electrical work, so for now, i'm leaving them alone.

I added this decorative paper on the front in 12x12 squares to cover the "unfinished oak wood grain" that is so prevanlent in cheap unifinshed cabinets from the store.  It picks up the other colors in the room and just gives it a little pop.  Remember its just a temporary fix until I can make the real changes I'm wanting to do, and for now I'm loving it! :)

VANITY BEFORE

In fact, i loved it so much that I decided the next morning to tackle the vanity.  Since it was laminate I thought I better sand and prime it.  Because of that prep work, the finish turned out darker, but equally stunning. 

VANITY AFTER

Ten + One Surprising Uses for Lemons

In my home, I almost always have a big bowl of bright yellow lemons. Partially just because I love the way they look, they just bring a little "zest" into a space. Really lemons, aren't just for show- lemons serve a million purposes around the house from cooking ( I use the frquently) to cleaning. Here are just some of the myriad things you can do with them.

This is my favorite tip as it can be a real life saver, so I'm calling it THE Plus One Tip:

Truly it is one of the best tips I have ever come across, as I used to have chronic ear infections. My Allergist (Dr. Kriendler) once told me to mix equal parts of lemon Juice & Rubbing Alcohol, and put into my ears after I bathe, or swim. I started using this so much that I put the mixture into a little squeeze bottle, & kept it in the medicine cabinet. I stopped having ear infections ever since, and when I feel one coming on, I start using this immediately. The Lemon juice kills the bacteria, & the rubbing alcohol dries any water in your ear canal. This worked for my niece at Disney a few years ago, when they couldn't get to a doctor fast enough, my kids, and countless friends.

1. Sanitize: Lemons are acidic enough to kill most types of bacteria. Rub a half a lemon over a cutting board, countertop, or butcher block to sanitize and disinfect without putting nasty chemicals near your food.

2. Whiten: Add a 1:1 mixture of water and lemon juice to fade tough stains (like those yellow underarm ones), or add 1/2 cup of lemon juice to the washer to whiten a whole load.

3. Shine: Sprinkle half a lemon with salt and scrub to shine up the insides of copper and stainless steel cookware or sinks.

4. Soothe Your Throat: Mix a 1:1 ratio of lemon juice and hot water for a tea that will soothe a sore throat. Follow with a teaspoon of honey.

5. Freshen Your Breath: for an impromptu mouthwash when you feel like you've been sucking on dirty gym socks, rinse your mouth with lemon juice- the acid will kill the stinky bacteria. Afterward, be sure to rinse with water to protect your teeth from the acid. Or, chew on a bit of the rind.

6. Clear the Air: When you follow your nose to find last month's Chinese leftovers in the back of the fridge, or the garbage can starts getting rank, soak a cotton ball in lemon juice and put it in the fridge or can. After a few minutes the bad smells will have disappeared.

7. Highlight Your Hair: Mix a 1:3 ratio of lemon juice to water and wet your hair with it. Sit in the sun until your hair dries completely. Results will be subtle. (Not recommended for brunettes).

8. Drive Away Pests: Wash your floors with a 1:10 ratio of lemon juice and water to drive off ants and roaches (no, it won't make the floor sticky).

9. Heal Bug Bites and Cuts: Rub lemon juice on bug bites to kill the sting or itch, or into cuts (if you can stand the pain) to disinfect and heal.

10. Fix Up Your Hands: Rub a lemon wedge on your hands to remove the odor from cutting onions or garlic, or stains from beets or berries. This also works to whiten fingernails that are yellowed from polish.

In other words, when life gives you lemons, clean your house, beautify, and heal yourself. Or, you could just make Lemoncello, I will post this recipe next time! :)

CLEVER LIGHTWEIGHT WALL ART

Whatever your decorating style, from formal to fanciful, wall art made with STYROFOAM® brand foam will enhance your home. Here are a few ideas:

Papers: Cover it with scrapbook paper, textured paper, handmade paper, wallpaper, maps, travel brochures, newspapers, gift wrap, even household foil. USE MODGE PODGE directly on the foam & over top of whatever paper/material you choose! KINDERGARTEN EASY!!

This makes amazing cheap wall art! Endless possibilities!

Photos: Create a personal photo gallery by ordering large prints of favorite digital snapshots from an online developer. Cut sheets of STYROFOAM brand foam to match print sizes.

 Adhere photos to foam sheets, cover edges with ribbon and hang.

It's that easy! If you make this, please share. I LOVE this craft, and would love to see your creations.

Aha! How fun would this be for a birthday party favor/activity! Cute stuff, just sayin.... =)

SILVER JEWELRY CLEANER

I love Silver jewelry! It goes with everything and always looks nice. I learned from a dear family friend who passed away much to early, never save anything for a special occasion.  I don't! I wear all my silver regularly and like to clean it myself & am very conscious of doing it the best way.

If you are fortunate to own anything from Tiffany & Co one of your most important objectives is appropriate care and storage of your Tiffany & Co. silver treasures. Silver jewelry, dazzling diamonds in silver settings, cufflinks, key rings, watches, or gift items from Tiffany & Co. are highly valued valuable. You want to keep them tarnish and scratch free.

Here are some of the following tips for caring for your silver that I have learned through the years, whether it's Tiffany and Co. or inherited silver wear that has been in the family for years. Keep your silver well polished and the sparkle will help maintain the value over time.

Cleaning your Tiffany & Co. silver Tip #1: Never use bleaches or abrasives.

Bleach seems like the answer to most household cleaning problems, but not when it comes to silver. Bleach and abrasives can cause irreparable damage to silver and stones. You've probably read or heard that it is okay to use toothpaste or backing soda on your silver and jewelry. It is not a good idea. I did it for years to my rings, and then realized, It will not polish your silver, and that is the last thing you want to when cleaning silver from Tiffany & Co. Jewelry experts also recommend steering clear of scouring powder and even creamy opaque jewelry cleaners.

Small brushes are useful, but I have found more success with soft, new toothbrushes than used ones. I used an old toothbrush to clean the nooks and crannies around a Tiffany & Co. bracelet given to me by my boyfriend. It was not very noticeable, but apparently there was enough toothpaste residue to make miniscule scratches in the silver. The scratches couldn't be seen unless you examined it closely, but it took away significant luster. I thought this could never be repaired and was crushed.  I took it in to T&CO Store downtown and they cleaned it, it looked like NEW! I was so HAPPY.  The Tiffany & Co. silver bracelet is still an heirloom, at the time I affected its shine, which ultimately can affect its value. Learn from my mistake and don't ruin your family silver.  When in doubt take it into them.  They are always super nice, friendly & helpful. Besides who doesn't like to go in and scope out new goodies! =)

Cleaning your Tiffany & Co. silver Tip #2: Water, Salt, and an aluminum plate.

Maybe you would like to clean your sterling silver with a jeweler recommended solution.

Take an aluminum plate, one tablespoon of salt, one tablespoon of baking soda, and hot water (not boiling). Pour the hot water in the pie plate to dissolve the powder solutions. Once the cleaner is mixed, dunk your silver jewelry, or any silver piece from Tiffany & Co. This is guaranteed by some silver aficionados as a tried and true method.

They do caution, however, that if your item is highly tarnished, it may still require polishing after tarnish removal.

Cleaning your Tiffany & Co. silver Tip #3:

When using commercial products buy silver specific cleaners.  There are so many jewelry and silver cleaners available, some claim to clean everything from your silver to your kitchen sink. When purchasing a commercial product for silver cleaning I recommend sticking with name brands that have been proven over time. Don't buy products that promise to clean everything: silver, gold, titanium, aluminum, steel. Those products are out there.

A brand name commercial product designed to remove silver tarnish can usually be trusted to safely remove tarnish from Tiffany & Co. silver. I have also used commercial polishing clothes, which I prefer to paste, to clean silver ware and silver serving pieces. This worked quite well. I prefer clothes to paste because it doesn't make as much of a mess. Either will get your silver polishing job done.

Jewelry experts even warn that you should be careful with polish, because it can wear away some of the silver. So these are probably not your best options for keeping Tiffany and Co. jewelry clean and polished.

Cleaning your Tiffany & Co. silver Tip #4: Steer clear of ammonia cleaners.
Some people have used ammonia to recapture the shine of silver. This works only on real silver, such as most items purchased from Tiffany & Co. However, ammonia products are used on sterling silver it will oxidize the finish. One day your beloved sterling silver baby spoon or duck bank will show signs of tarnish and rust.

I used ammonia for years, until I began to notice the tarnish on silver returning more quickly. Perhaps the use of pure ammonia or products containing large amounts of ammonia make a difference, but I have ceased to use ammonia altogether.

Cleaning your Tiffany & Co. silver Tip #5: Keep Tarnish away with Pacific Cloth
If you are storing your silver, store it in an airtight container lined with anti-tarnish cloth, also known as Pacific Cloth. This can be purchased at most fabric stores. Once you take the silver out for display, or to wear, wipe it clean with a soft polish cloth and replace it in the airtight Pacific Cloth lined container. If you do not wipe it clean, you may be disappointed to find tarnish the next time you pull out your Tiffany & Co. silver pieces.

Whether your silver pieces are from Tiffany & Co., grandma's heirloom collection, or any other silver producer store them carefully and clean them gently to ensure long life and brilliant shine.

***Do NOT use these methods on silver jewelry which contains gemstones. The delicacy of the gemstone may result in scratching, or other permanent damage.

*** ALSO - Chlorine can damage gold, platinum and some types of gems.
Don’t wear jewelry in hot tubs, swimming pools or wear when cleaning with bleach.

NOTE:   In addition to above tips - TIFFANY & CO.  SUGGEST THE FOLLOWING:

Between professional servicing, most gold and platinum jewelry can be maintained with a non-abrasive cleaner. Examine your jewelry regularly to make sure settings are snug and clasps and joinings are secure.

Sterling sliver tarnishes rapidly, especially when exposed to salt air and products containing sulfur,
such as rubber bands and some papers. Tiffany & Co. recommends a non-abrasive silver polish to keep your silver looking its best. 

Jewelry storage is important as well. At the time of purchase, all Tiffany & Co. jewelry is wrapped in a protective box, case or tarnish-resistant pouch. Between wearings, we recommend that you place it back in its original case or another suitably lined box or pouch.

10 Ideas for Cheap Upcycled Curtains Rods

 These ideas for cheap upcycled curtain rods are perfect for anyone looking to decorate their home on a budget. Easy DIY curtain rods can look great with a little effort and creativity. Hopefully these ideas for cheap or even free upcycled curtain rods will inspire you in your own home.

Cheap Upcycled Curtain Rod Idea #1

Old door knobs can make a fun and funky way to hang curtains. These work best with tab top curtains or curtains you can add loops of ribbon or fabric on to the top.

Take old vintage door knobs and glue a long screw inside the back of them. I like to use an epoxy glue. Predrill holes every 4 inches or so along the wall where your curtain rod would be. Install wall anchors and screw the old doorknobs into place. Hang the curtain tabs on the door knobs.

Cheap Upcycled Curtain Rod Idea #2

Old 2X4's make fun curtain rods. They work great with panels of fabric. Lay your fabric curtain panel pattern side down on the floor. Lay the 2X4 on top. Fold the fabric over the top of the wood and staple into place on the back.  Place the 2X4 up on the wall above the window. Pick up the fabric to expose the front of the board. Predrill a hole through the wood then screw into the wall. Drape the fabric back into place.

Cheap Upcycled Curtain Rod Idea #3
Tacks are a quick solution to hanging curtains fast. Be sure to use large enough tacks that reach through the fabric and into the wall. Space these out evenly just like in the door know curtain rod idea.

Cheap Upcycled Curtain Rods Idea #4
Vintage hooks can be found at yards sales, in old closets, and in boxes at flea markets. They can be very affordable and are an ideal way to hang curtains and really get a custom look.

You want to space then evenly above your window. Do this by pre marking the spaces on the wall. Screw into place using wall anchors if needed. Hang those tab top curtains on each hook.

Cheap Curtain Rods Idea #5
Broom handles and mop handles make fun a whimsical curtain rods in the kitchen. You can attach them to the wall with L brackets or use existing curtain wall brackets. Wood handles can be trimmed to length.

Cheap Upcycled Curtain Rod Idea #6
Shelves make fun curtain rods by adding some architectural interest to a place room. Hang an old unused shelf above your window. Screw in tea cup hooks on the underside. Hang tab top curtains on the hooks.

Cheap Curtain Rods Idea #7
Plant Hangers are a fun way to hang a simple rod. They come in all shaped, sizes, and styles. Simply lay a wood dowel in the hook area and run it across the window. This look is ideal in sun room, kitchen, or bathroom.
Cheap Upcycled Curtain Rod Idea #8
Leftover wiring or twine can easily be hand on the wall using a simple stainless steel O screw. You can find these in the same aisle as the stainless steal hooks that screw into the wall. Attach one at the top left and one at the top right of the window and string some twine along to hang the curtains on.

Cheap Curtain Rod Idea #9
Copper pipes or PVC pipes can be painted, upcycled and used in place of traditional curtain rods. They can be cut to any length and come in a variety of widths. Plus you may have some laying around from old projects.

Cheap Upcycled Curtain Rod Idea #10
Wood branches can be found in the back yard for free, so take advantage of this. Remove any leaves or small thin branches sticking out. Sand any rough areas if needed. These can rest on traditional curtain rod hardware or be attached to the wall with L brackets.

Fabric Walls

I have always loved this since I was a little girl, as my StepMom did it to a wall in my room.  She used a flannel sheet, that matched the curtains for my bed.  This is a great trick to do if you live in an apartment because it peels right off, and does not mess up the walls. 

No excuses for a bland apartment anymore! It works well on furniture also!

1. Fabric
The first step in this project is to pick fabric you like. Keep in mind that patterns require more fabric and time for matching. Check fabric warehouses and bargain bins for lightweight and inexpensive fabrics. It is also important to wash and completely dry your fabric before hanging. Then cut the fabric to fit the wall with about two inches of extra fabric at the top and the bottom.

2. Starch
You can use starch to attach the fabric to the wall. With this method the wall will not be damaged and the fabric can be easily removed. I suggest using a paint roller - it's less messy and faster than using a brush or dipping the fabric into a container of starch. I suggest using a plastic container with a lid to hold your starch mixture. It can then be stored away if you are interrupted.

3. Hang
The hanging is easy. Simply roll the starch onto the wall. A good thick layer works best. Then hang the fabric and smooth with a wallpaper smoothing tool, matching patterns, if necessary. Then roll more starch over the fabric and let dry. A couple of thumbtacks at the top of the fabric will hold it in place while it dries. Overlap each strip about 1/2 inch.

4. Trim
When the fabric is dry, take a straight edge and a box cutter and, holding the straight edge against the ceiling or the floor boards, trim away the extra fabric. Then give yourself a pat on the back for such a brilliant job!

5. Clean
If your walls need cleaning, use a small, tiny bit of dishwashing detergent and sponge lightly. To remove the fabric, use a wet sponge and soak the corners until they fall away from the walls. They should come right off - which will make your landlord happy!

DIY Chalkboard Paint Recipe

Most chalkboard paints are available in traditional black or green, but it's easy to make if a different color is required.

Simply mix a cup of latex paint in the color of your choice and mix with two tablespoons of unsanded tile grout. You may have to play around with the amounts a little bit to get the desired consistency. Start with small amounts until you get the hang of it. (Thanks to marthastewart.com for this recipe!)

Use it all over the house for different craft projects. There are tons of things you can do, so grab a brush (or spray can) and get painting.

Dramatic Bottle Presentations

A bottle of icy vodka makes a dramatic bar decoration when it's encased in a frozen layer of colorful flowers and fruit.

Place a full bottle into a fully opened cardboard half-gallon milk carton. Insert flowers or thinly sliced fruit (we've used nasturtiums, lemons, and limes) around the bottle, filling one third of the carton. Pour water into the container, just covering the fruit and flowers. Place the carton upright in the freezer. When the liquid is completely frozen, add another layer of fruit and very cold water, and freeze. Repeat, filling and freezing a third of the carton at a time, which prevents all the fruit and flowers from floating to the top until the water reaches the bottle's neck. Remove from the freezer when it's time to serve the vodka: Cut away the milk carton with a utility knife; wrap a dinner napkin around the bottle's base, and serve the vodka with slices of lemon zest tied in knots.