Inexpensive Custom Art

I did this project yesterday and I am loving it. Its a very inexpensive way to incorporate art into your room. All I did was buy a $6.00 a yard fabric and frame it. It is so simple. I am always changing my mind and the style of my rooms and this way I can change things without spending a lot of money. Any fabric will work and I have also used wall paper before. Find a fabric that has some of the colors of your room and frame. Think about mixing colors and patterns. Often times wall covering and paint stores have discontinued samples that they give away for free.

What's Wrong With This Picture?

This was Dan's design from HGTV Design Star last weekend. He was sent home and it's no wonder why. So, what is wrong with this? Scale, Scale, Scale...I am all for galleries but this one does not work. Scale is Design 101 and I am shocked he made it on the show. When doing a gallery of frames, they should be hung closer together and fill at least 2/3 of the wall space you are mounting them on. I would have added about 5 or 6 more frames to fill those gaps.

Also, consider using larger frames, no smaller than a 5 x 7. Consider using different textures but painting them all one color. Or mix up the frames and use black and white photos. He's who we voted to go home too. Can't wait till next week to see who gets the cut next.

Judge the contestants your self www.my.hgtv.com/design-star-judge-the-designs-2010

It's All About White

Tired of the same old brown bowls and vases? Freshen your home with white accessories. Shiny and crisp white accessories add a modern and fresh accent to your home. I love these white vases from Z-Gallery. If these are out of your budget, I always have luck at Marshall's and TJ Maxx Home Goods.

If you're like me and hate to waste anything, get on the green movement; get a can of white spray paint and paint your existing vases and sculptures. The key is to make sure the paint has a glossy finish. For only $3.95 a can you can completely change the look of your room. Anything will work, old trophies, glass vases, baskets, bowls, or even shells. Just make sure to ask your sales guy if a particular product will work on the existing finish of your piece.

Speaking of Summer

This goes out to all my friends in the northwest. Want to infuse a little sunshine into your life? Add a little yellow. I am going crazy right now for the color combination of yellow and grey. Yellow is so warm, inviting, and happy; and with a touch of warm gray this color goes from the country gingham we had as kids to hip and modern. I just bought this bedding set and can't wait to dress my guest room.

For those of you ready to jump right in, new bedding, drapes, and even wall color is the way to go. I would do a warm grey on the walls and little touches of yellow black and white throughout the room. A little more timid? Try a few throw pillows or bedding like I did. Adding it to your already neutral room will give you that pop you've been looking for. Don't worry if it's the right color or pattern, if you like it then it works.

Bedding by Nate Berkus