10 Terrific DIY Home and Garden Projects

It has been a while since I've posted some DIY projects, and I came across these and thought I would share!  Add Spring panache inside your home and out with these engaging DIY projects for all skills levels.  From fixing up roadside furniture to installing an edible container garden and building a stone fire pit, these 10 DIY projects for the home and garden are for both newbies and pros!

Project: Painted quotation
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 1 hour

The book Flea Market Chic by Liz Bauwens and Alexandra Campbell features a quote painted on the wall above a bed's headboard. You can easily re-create this poetic look with a small can of paint and a set of letter stencils — or very good handwriting.

  Project: Burlap-wrapped pots
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 15 minutes

Jennifer of The Old Painted Cottage covered basic pots with burlap to enhance her maidenhair ferns. Buy a roll of burlap at a garden store, cut a section that fits your pot and place the stylishly covered pot in a plant stand. You can also finish the look by tying the burlap with twine.

Project: Two embellished paper lanterns
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 20 minutes to 2 hours

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest whipped up these delightful paper globe lanterns with nothing more than a glue gun and embellishments from a craft store. The flower design takes a bit more time, but you can finish the pom-pom creation in just minutes.

See the full instructions here

Project: Container garden Difficulty: Easy Estimated time: An afternoon Want an edible garden in raised beds but don't have the time or desire to do major construction? Take a cue from the folks at Banyon Tree Design Studio and fill galvanized troughs (yes, the kind livestock drink from) with soil and compost, and use them as containers to plant your seeds.

Project: Reclaimed dining chairs
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (including drying time)

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest scooped up these chairs for free on the side of the road and transformed them with black paint and decorative fabric.

This is a no-sew project, so it's even appropriate for newbie DIYers. Read the full details and how-to here.

Project: Stenciled rug Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Upgrading a sisal rug with a modern print creates a fresh look that's inexpensive. Read more about this project here.

Project: Outdoor chalkboard Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Shades of Green's portfolio on Houzz inspired me to research outdoor chalkboard DIY projects. I discovered the perfect method: Mix outdoor paint with a dark sanded grout and apply it to a sheet of plywood for a version that will hold up against the elements. Get the full how-to here.

Project: Front-door face-lift
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (includes drying time)

Designer Brian Patrick Flynn, aka the Decor Demon, upgraded a basic hollow-core door in a weekend with new hardware, fresh paint and crisp graphic design. It may look complicated, but with time and patience, even a beginner can tackle this project.

Read the full story with step-by-step instructions

Project: Placemat pillows Difficulty: Moderate (sewing machine required) Estimated time: Several hours Living in a Nutshell by Janet Lee covers creative and budget-friendly projects for small spaces. Here's a genius tip from the book: Sew designer placemats together and fill with stuffing to create a pillow. Read the Houzz coverage of Living in a Nutshell for more ideas.

Project: Backyard fire pit Difficulty: Hard Estimated time: Several weekends (and helping hands) If you are ready to bust out the power tools and do some heavy lifting, this stacked stone fire pit could be yours in time to enjoy warm summer nights. Erin Lang Norris did a wonderful job outlining step-by-step instructions, so if you decide to tackle this project, you are in good hands. Source: www.houzz.com To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE! To read how you can help updating Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE For more information about my Summit Murder Mystery series, please CLICK HERE!

10 Terrific DIY Home and Garden Projects

It has been a while since I've posted some DIY projects, and I came across these and thought I would share!  Add Spring panache inside your home and out with these engaging DIY projects for all skills levels.  From fixing up roadside furniture to installing an edible container garden and building a stone fire pit, these 10 DIY projects for the home and garden are for both newbies and pros!

Project: Painted quotation
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 1 hour

The book Flea Market Chic by Liz Bauwens and Alexandra Campbell features a quote painted on the wall above a bed's headboard. You can easily re-create this poetic look with a small can of paint and a set of letter stencils — or very good handwriting.

  Project: Burlap-wrapped pots
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 15 minutes

Jennifer of The Old Painted Cottage covered basic pots with burlap to enhance her maidenhair ferns. Buy a roll of burlap at a garden store, cut a section that fits your pot and place the stylishly covered pot in a plant stand. You can also finish the look by tying the burlap with twine.

Project: Two embellished paper lanterns
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 20 minutes to 2 hours

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest whipped up these delightful paper globe lanterns with nothing more than a glue gun and embellishments from a craft store. The flower design takes a bit more time, but you can finish the pom-pom creation in just minutes.

See the full instructions here

Project: Container garden Difficulty: Easy Estimated time: An afternoon Want an edible garden in raised beds but don't have the time or desire to do major construction? Take a cte from the folks at Banyon Tree Design Studio and fill galvanized troughs (yes, the kind livestock drink from) with soil and compost, and use them as containers to plant your seeds.

Project: Reclaimed dining chairs
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (including drying time)

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest scooped up these chairs for free on the side of the road and transformed them with black paint and decorative fabric.

This is a no-sew project, so it's even appropriate for newbie DIYers. Read the full details and how-to here.

Project: Stenciled rug Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Upgrading a sisal rug with a modern print creates a fresh look that's inexpensive. Read more about this project here.

Project: Outdoor chalkboard Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Shades of Green's portfolio on Houzz inspired me to research outdoor chalkboard DIY projects. I discovered the perfect method: Mix outdoor paint with a dark sanded grout and apply it to a sheet of plywood for a version that will hold up against the elements. Get the full how-to here.

Project: Front-door face-lift
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (includes drying time)

Designer Brian Patrick Flynn, aka the Decor Demon, upgraded a basic hollow-core door in a weekend with new hardware, fresh paint and crisp graphic design. It may look complicated, but with time and patience, even a beginner can tackle this project.

Read the full story with step-by-step instructions

Project: Placemat pillows Difficulty: Moderate (sewing machine required) Estimated time: Several hours Living in a Nutshell by Janet Lee covers creative and budget-friendly projects for small spaces. Here's a genius tip from the book: Sew designer placemats together and fill with stuffing to create a pillow. Read the Houzz coverage of Living in a Nutshell for more ideas.

Project: Backyard fire pit Difficulty: Hard Estimated time: Several weekends (and helping hands) If you are ready to bust out the power tools and do some heavy lifting, this stacked stone fire pit could be yours in time to enjoy warm summer nights. Erin Lang Norris did a wonderful job outlining step-by-step instructions, so if you decide to tackle this project, you are in good hands. Source: www.houzz.com To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE! To read how you can help updating Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE For more information about my Summit Murder Mystery series, please CLICK HERE!

15 Outdoor Decoating Ideas on a Budget

With spring in full swing, many people are spending more time outside. The warmer temperatures, beautiful blooming flowers, and green grass growing, it is time to get outside and see what nature has to offer.  It is also the time of year when avid gardeners turn to outdoor decorating.  Listed below are 15 outdoor decorating ideas on a budget.  Which of these ideas will you implement into your outdoor décor?

• Bring in the flowers.
  If your garden just doesn’t seem up to par, add beauty through flowers. Replace old flowers that may have seen better days.  The more color you have in your flower beds, the more curb appeal your home will have. Your local nursery will have beautiful plants at great prices.
• A stylish second hand bird bath. 
  A bird bath will attract wild life to your yard.  Put a bird bath in your yard that will be stylish and attractive to your guests as well.  Sit on your porch in the spring enjoying the outdoors and beautiful wildlife that is attracted to your yard.
• Find great outdoor furniture at garage sales.
  Outdoor furniture will make a big impact when decorating your outdoor space. Unfortunately, it can get rather expensive.  Visit garage sales around the area in search of second hand outdoor furniture that is still in good shape.  You may even check the ads in your local newspaper.
• Recover your existing outdoor furniture.
  If you already have furniture, choose to recover it instead of going out and buying brand new furniture. This is a cost efficient way to get  a new look for your outdoor space.
• Make your own outdoor accessories.
  Choose to make you own stepping stones and outdoor art to help beauty your space.  The options are endless when creating classic pieces to help decorate outdoors. If you have a creative touch, use your skills to save you money.
• Shop at your local craft store for outdoor accessories.
  Some large craft stores will carry outdoor accessories at a cheaper price. To really save money, go in search of accessories that may have minor defects. This is a great way to save you money.
• Find an outdoor rug on clearance.
  An outdoor rug can help warm up the space and make it seem as if you are really indoors. This is a great way to add in color and texture to your outdoor living space.
• Build a raise platform with lumber you have laying around.
  A raised platform is a great place to put a dining table or to make a sitting area.  If you have extra lumbar lying around, use it to decorate your outdoor space.
• Don’t be afraid to bring the indoors out.
  If there are things from indoors that you plan on getting rid of, why not bring them outdoors and allow them to act as garden accessories.
• Make your own stepping stones.
  Stepping stones can be rather expensive if you choose high quality materials. Save some money on those stones by making your own from cement.
• Discover inexpensive outdoor lighting.
  Outdoor lighting is a must to help complete the perfect outdoor space. When decorating, choose inexpensive lighting that can make a big impact.
• Bring in a water element.
  A water fountain in the corner can give you and your family the illusion of being someplace else.  Wait until the end of the season and get a water fountain on sale.
• Potted plants can make a big impact.
  Add potted plants to your porch area for another inexpensive burst of color.
• Invest in a trendy outdoor fan.
  Outdoor fans are inexpensive, provide relief from the heat, and can also make a statement in your outdoor space.  Choose a trendy design that is eye catching.
• Outdoor pillows are must!
  If you can’t afford to recover your outdoor furniture, choose to buy new outdoor pillows to help give the space a fresh look. This is an inexpensive way to add a touch of color and elegance.

Are you busy decorating your outdoor space? If so, choose to implement the ideas above to help get the look that you want on a small budget.

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!

*article from letsrenovate.com

15 Outdoor Decoating Ideas on a Budget

With spring in full swing, many people are spending more time outside. The warmer temperatures, beautiful blooming flowers, and green grass growing, it is time to get outside and see what nature has to offer.  It is also the time of year when avid gardeners turn to outdoor decorating.  Listed below are 15 outdoor decorating ideas on a budget.  Which of these ideas will you implement into your outdoor décor?

• Bring in the flowers.
  If your garden just doesn’t seem up to par, add beauty through flowers. Replace old flowers that may have seen better days.  The more color you have in your flower beds, the more curb appeal your home will have. Your local nursery will have beautiful plants at great prices.
• A stylish second hand bird bath. 
  A bird bath will attract wild life to your yard.  Put a bird bath in your yard that will be stylish and attractive to your guests as well.  Sit on your porch in the spring enjoying the outdoors and beautiful wildlife that is attracted to your yard.
• Find great outdoor furniture at garage sales.
  Outdoor furniture will make a big impact when decorating your outdoor space. Unfortunately, it can get rather expensive.  Visit garage sales around the area in search of second hand outdoor furniture that is still in good shape.  You may even check the ads in your local newspaper.
• Recover your existing outdoor furniture.
  If you already have furniture, choose to recover it instead of going out and buying brand new furniture. This is a cost efficient way to get  a new look for your outdoor space.
• Make your own outdoor accessories.
  Choose to make you own stepping stones and outdoor art to help beauty your space.  The options are endless when creating classic pieces to help decorate outdoors. If you have a creative touch, use your skills to save you money.
• Shop at your local craft store for outdoor accessories.
  Some large craft stores will carry outdoor accessories at a cheaper price. To really save money, go in search of accessories that may have minor defects. This is a great way to save you money.
• Find an outdoor rug on clearance.
  An outdoor rug can help warm up the space and make it seem as if you are really indoors. This is a great way to add in color and texture to your outdoor living space.
• Build a raise platform with lumber you have laying around.
  A raised platform is a great place to put a dining table or to make a sitting area.  If you have extra lumbar lying around, use it to decorate your outdoor space.
• Don’t be afraid to bring the indoors out.
  If there are things from indoors that you plan on getting rid of, why not bring them outdoors and allow them to act as garden accessories.
• Make your own stepping stones.
  Stepping stones can be rather expensive if you choose high quality materials. Save some money on those stones by making your own from cement.
• Discover inexpensive outdoor lighting.
  Outdoor lighting is a must to help complete the perfect outdoor space. When decorating, choose inexpensive lighting that can make a big impact.
• Bring in a water element.
  A water fountain in the corner can give you and your family the illusion of being someplace else.  Wait until the end of the season and get a water fountain on sale.
• Potted plants can make a big impact.
  Add potted plants to your porch area for another inexpensive burst of color.
• Invest in a trendy outdoor fan.
  Outdoor fans are inexpensive, provide relief from the heat, and can also make a statement in your outdoor space.  Choose a trendy design that is eye catching.
• Outdoor pillows are must!
  If you can’t afford to recover your outdoor furniture, choose to buy new outdoor pillows to help give the space a fresh look. This is an inexpensive way to add a touch of color and elegance.

Are you busy decorating your outdoor space? If so, choose to implement the ideas above to help get the look that you want on a small budget.

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!

*article from letsrenovate.com

Women Leading the Way in a Man's World

While DIY may be traditionally seen as a man's work, a new survey says roles are being reversed with women leading the way and showing up their other halves' handy-work.

The survey by the AA's Home Emergency Response Service has revealed men are losing their traditional DIY skills as more women step up and take over around the home.

Young men are now less than half as likely to perform the tasks their fathers and grandfathers could, like rewiring a plug or bleeding a radiator. The findinfs show 35 per cent of men aged 18-24 can no longer change a light bulb, compared to 29 per cent of women the same age. It also states that women aged 18-24 are more competent than males of the same age at assembling flat pack furniture – 64 per cent against 54 per cent. Women are also catching up at hanging wallpaper, patching holes in a wall, and replacing locks.

It seems this trend has been gathering momentum for some time, with females working professionally in male-dominated industries, including plumbing, construction and electrics.

Justine Wood, 40, has been running her own successful painting and decorating business in Cheltenham for 14 years. After working several different jobs, she ended up painting almost by accident, but soon found her services in high demand.

"I was taking a gap year and needed to earn some cash, so I started with the painting and decorating, and before I knew it I was working full-time.  It was quite unusual and people were surprised to see me at first, but in the last seven or eight years people don't seem to mention it," she said.

Justine believes she brings things to the job which male firms cannot, and that there are many benefits to hiring a woman to work around the home.

She said: "It's all about attention to detail, taking care and knowing you're working in somebody's home, not just a site. Where we come through is in applying those finishing touches, the little things that others may miss, and communication is important – letting people know what's happening as we go, rather than just turning up and getting on with things."

Do you agree?  Do you think DIY repairs are no longer just a man's world?

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE

Four Teen Bedroom Organization Tips

Is your teenager's bedroom out of control?  Your teen’s bedroom is either a disaster or he or she has learned what it takes to manage one’s personal space. And likely with not a little prodding from you. Regardless of the current condition of your teen’s bedroom, there may be room for improvement. The following tips can help your teen organize his or her personal space and ensure that sanity prevails in your household.

1. Make use of baskets — Professional organizer Marilyn Bohn offers some excellent tips on how to organize a teenager’s bedroom. She suggests making use of baskets, including paint-able wicker baskets, that can hold an assortment of items including sporting equipment and smaller baskets that can be placed on shelves or on top of bureaus to hold personal effects or accessories. Each teen should have his or her own clothing basket or hamper and a waste basket.

2. Shoe boxes — Shoe boxes aren’t just for holding shoes — you can buy a shoe tree or a shoe rack if your teen has multiple pairs of shoes and use those for storing shoes instead. Shoe boxes are great for two reasons: they’re stackable and they can be labeled. Oh, yes, these boxes can hold an assortment of items including CD's, make up, school supplies, you name it.

3. Plastic bins — Seasonal clothing does not need to take up more room than necessary. Store winter gear in plastic bins and place these in the closet, in your attic or basement. Make sure that the containers are airtight and, if moths are a problem, place repellant inside. Clothing that is outgrown should be handed down or donated, helping to reduce your home’s overall clutter.

4. Bulletin board or peg board — Likely, you already have a peg board in your kitchen or other central room in your home with a calendar, a chart and notes tacked or pegged on. Translate this idea into your teen’s bedroom, by offering him or her a personal bulletin board or peg board. This space can help your teen keep track of his or her own appointments including due assignments, special projects and other information that needs a home.

Final Thoughts

You can help your teen be better organized by providing him with his own desk or giving her a color-coded calendar to manage school, sports and family events.  Whatever plan you put in place, enlist the help of your teen who will need to know what goes where. Finally, for a fresh look, paint your teen’s bedroom in colors that he or she likes.


To order your copy of Remodeling Hell and to read the FREE Salvation Guide, CLICK HERE!

DIY Project - Making an old brass chandelier look new again!

How to Modernize a Traditional Brass Chandelier

With a few simple steps, take an old brass chandelier from old, fussy and formal to functional, fun and fresh.

+

Materials Needed:

• brass chandelier
• painters' tape
• can of spray primer
• 3 cans of spray paint
• snap-on spray paint can handle
• sheet plastic
• globe chandelier bulbs

 

 

 

 

Prep for Paint

Protect floor and surrounding areas with plastic sheeting. Use a damp cloth to wipe dust from chandelier, remove socket sleeves then cover sockets with painters' tape.

+

Prime Surface

Shake can of spray primer for one minute then attach snap-on handle to can's top. With can six inches from surface, lightly pull spray handle back and prime chandelier using controlled pressure on handle. Prevent drips by covering areas to be painted with an even coat of primer, being careful not to spray one area for too long. Allow primer to fully dry for approximately one hour.

+

Add Finish Coat

Shake can of spray paint for one minute, then attach spray handle to top. With can six inches from surface, lightly pull spray handle back creating controlled, overlapping strokes. Allow up to an hour for first coat to dry, then apply final coat.

$0D
Insert Globe Bulbs

Remove painters' tape from sockets, slide sleeves into place then screw in globe bulbs.

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!

*DIY project from HGTV.com