tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2322920963810439602024-03-13T14:13:16.777-07:00Distress To ImpressAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-78028111754285406452015-04-14T20:40:00.000-07:002015-04-14T20:40:04.321-07:00Beach House Coffee TableEverywhere I go, it's nautical this and seashell that and I so so wish I had a beach house to decorate!! It's torture I tell you! :)<br />
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Well, when I inherited this small coffee table from a friend, I unintentionally went beachy with it. Unintentionally, you ask? It all started out with me wanting to go outside of my perfectionist comfort zone and give dry brushing a try. It is a very imperfect technique and it's hard for me to let go control, ha. <br />
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First up was one layer of grey using Maison Blanche Franciscan Grey.<br />
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Next, I dry brushed on a layer of General Finishes Antique White. I intentionally went a little heavy with the dry brushing because I wanted a bit more coverage.<br />
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Then I went to town with my distressing - waaay more than I usually do. And finally finished it off with a grain sack design.<br />
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At this point, I wasn't loving it. In fact, all along the way I wasn't sold, but was committed to seeing my initial vision through. I sent my friend a picture of the table at this stage and she mentioned how it looked beachy. YES! Exactly!!! The moment she said that I knew exactly what this piece needed to make it a finished product. I used my Silhouette to cut out a simple anchor graphic and stenciled that on top in Navy. And then I did even more distressing. I was starting to fall in love.<br />
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As a final touch, I added a wicker basket to the shelf and called it a day. So cute, right?! <br />
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Now I REALLY wish I had a beach house so this cutie could go right in it. :)<br />
-AshleyAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-31065951545468821682015-04-02T09:02:00.000-07:002015-04-02T09:02:25.894-07:00Shadow Box Turned Jewelry DisplayI love seeing all the creative ways to store and display jewelry. So when an old shadow box was offered to me, I decided to create my own. This would be specifically for my earrings, which were currently all thrown together in a box. <br />
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The shadow box started out like this...<br />
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I found the cutest fabric at Hobby Lobby (of course!?). I measured the inside of the box, then cut the fabric to size.<br />
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I then secured the fabric with hot glue.<br />
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To help hide any uneven cuts, I used this gold trim.<br />
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I had no idea trim like this even existed! I think it's so so pretty and want to put it on everything, ha.<br />
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A little Windex on the glass and a couple nails in the wall and this pretty lady was ready to hang!<br />
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Getting ready in the morning just got a little more exciting. :)<br />
-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-19383802901937667852015-03-15T21:42:00.000-07:002015-03-15T21:42:36.062-07:00DIY Easter DecorNow this one is easy and will take you under 15 minutes (minus drying time). :)<br />
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Here is what you'll need.<br />
<ul>
<li>8x10 Canvas</li>
<li>Paint</li>
<li>Pouncer</li>
<li>Bunny Stencil</li>
<li>Scrapbook Paper</li>
<li>White Pom Pom</li>
</ul>
To start, I spray painted my canvas blue using Valspar's Exotic Sea. I then stenciled a bunny silhouette using a pouncer to apply white acrylic paint.<br />
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Then I used my glue gun to attach the pom pom.<br />
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And now for the pennant banner. I cut out multiple pieces using two different sheets of scrapbook paper. Then used modge podge to attach them.<br />
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And that's a wrap! So easy, so quick and adds the perfect flair to your mantel.<br />
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Thanks for hopping by! ;)<br />
-Ashley<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-66190419772415698472015-03-03T13:00:00.002-08:002015-03-03T13:00:26.101-08:00Spring WreathIt's really starting to feel like spring here in Seattle and I'm loving it! So naturally, I've busted out all my spring decor and even got the itch to create a new spring wreath for my front door. <br />
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It all started with mint mesh. I saw it during one of my many trips to Hobby Lobby and fell in love. I know you typically use this type of material to make more of a flowy wreath, but I actually prefer taking a straw wreath and simply wrapping my fabric around it. Easy peasy. :)<br />
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Here is an example of the wreath I used.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GEJj_VVqWxk/VPVR6cqStzI/AAAAAAAABF8/46mtJqF0knw/s1600/HL%2BStraw%2BWreath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GEJj_VVqWxk/VPVR6cqStzI/AAAAAAAABF8/46mtJqF0knw/s1600/HL%2BStraw%2BWreath.jpg" /></a></div>
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Once my wreath was wrapped, I took a small amount of hot glue to seal the end. I chose three different types of flowers to dress up my wreath - gerber daisies, peonies and hydrangeas. I like to lay my flowers out to make sure I get it just the way I want before gluing. Then to work I go!<br />
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Don't you just love that bird?!? I found it at Michaels for .39! And I didn't even need to paint it - woot woot!<br />
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Here are a couple more shots in it's new home.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Enjoy the sun!<br />
-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-80186203353173892432015-02-10T11:29:00.000-08:002015-02-10T11:29:29.660-08:00Photo Holder Wood BlockI am so excited to share this next project with you! I created this one for Valentine's Day, but the beauty of this project is you can create it for any special occasion. I personally think it would be so so cute for as a wedding gift or even a baptism. The possibilities are endless! Here is what you'll need.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Square Wood Block</li>
<li>White Paint </li>
<li>Sand Paper</li>
<li>Scrapbook Paper</li>
<li>Modge Podge</li>
<li>Silhouette Vinyl Cut Out</li>
<li>Drill</li>
<li>Steel Wire</li>
<li>Pen</li>
<li>Decorative Ribbon</li>
</ul>
To start, give your wood block a couple coats of white paint. <br />
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Once it's dry, quickly distress it with your sand paper. While you wait for the paint to dry, start cutting out your scrapbook paper to fit within the 6 sides of the block.<br />
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Since my paint was still wet and I have no patience, I decided to add my vinyl design to the piece of scrapbook paper prior to securing it to the wood block. :) And since Silhouette vinyl is so easy to use, it was easy peesy.<br />
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Once my paint was dry, I used Modge Podge to adhere each piece of paper.<br />
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Add a thin layer to the block first, then add the paper. Remember to smooth the bubbles and wrinkles out! Then add another thin layer to the top of the paper.<br />
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Ta-da! So cute, right? Just wait - it gets cuter! Take your drill and drill a small hole on the top of the block. Then cut two long pieces of wire and fold them in half. Add a glob of hot glue into the drilled hole and then stick in your wire and hold in place until the glue sets.<br />
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Now here is the fun part. Take your pen and start wrapping your wire around the pen, keeping the coil tight. Repeat for each of the four wires. <br />
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Lastly, tie your ribbon on, add your pictures and enjoy!<br />
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See that four leaf clover paper? That's a sneak peak of the paper I'll be using to create a St. Patty's Day version. :) Like I said, the possibilities are endless!<br />
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-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-6494858882014070192015-02-02T15:04:00.000-08:002015-02-02T15:16:39.598-08:00Valentine's Day Door SignDo you love the Target $1-$3 bins as much as I do?! I couldn't believe it when I saw these wood hearts there for only $3! I grabbed as many as I could and ran, ha. :)<br />
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You might recall last year's <a href="http://distress-to-impress.blogspot.com/2014/01/when-you-cant-find-it-make-it.html" target="_blank">door sign</a>. This year, however, I wanted something a little heavier and this wood heart was the perfect starting point. I started by painting it white. After two coats of white, I layered one coat of pink on top. I then took sandpaper and ran it across the entire piece. I love the amount of white that pops through. Doesn't it remind you of a pink sweetheart candy? Yum!<br />
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I had my ribbon picked out, but I was undecided on if I wanted black writing or red. I decided on black since it'd probably be more readable from the street. Then I got to work on my stencil.<br />
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I'm loving all the crafting possibilities I have with my Silhouette cutting machine. They have so much to offer, including adhesive stencil material. The best part about it? It's washable, so you can use it again and again!<br />
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I chose a design from the Silhouette store - that was the easy part. The hard part? Turning "islands" into "bridges". I spent a handful of hours researching Google and watching YouTube videos before finally getting the hang of it. After a few test cuts, my stencil was ready.<br />
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I used a pouncer brush to fill in the stencil with black paint. I let the whole thing dry before removing the stencil. Then I simply washed it off, attached it to it's backing and stashed it away for another day.<br />
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I'm loving my new door sign and fully expect to see it's return next year and the year after! :)<br />
-Ashley<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-28724426118423766562015-01-10T20:07:00.001-08:002015-01-10T20:07:54.711-08:00Valentine's Day Wood BlocksHeeeelllllooo 2015!!! I hope everyone enjoyed their New Year celebrations! My husband and I actually managed to stay awake until midnight - first time in years! And in fact, our little one partied until 11pm, ha. I'm definitely looking forward to what 2015 has in store. :)<br />
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So, what shall we chat about today? Well, as someone who crafts, I'm always thinking about the next holiday. So while I packed up Christmas, I thought about what I might like to tackle for Valentine's Day. I received a Silhouette for Mother's Day last year and I've been dying to spend more time mastering all that it has to offer. I used my vinyl starter kit to put together these little cuties!<br />
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It all started with a simple wood block I picked up from Hobby Lobby around Christmas time. <br />
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I originally planned on using them to create ornaments, but unfortunately, time ran out. Honestly, I'm glad it did because I think these Valentine's blocks turned out way cuter than the ornaments would have.<br />
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I created my designs using Silhouette Studio.<br />
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I then loaded my vinyl into my Silhouette cutting machine. I used all the recommended settings for vinyl and then hit cut!<br />
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I removed the vinyl from the machine and peeled away the excess. I was then left with this...<br />
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Using transfer paper, I moved the letters from this sheet to the wood block.<br />
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And that was that!<br />
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How easy, right?!! To add even more cuteness, I added washi tape around the entire block.<br />
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I repeated the same process for each design. I just love how they turned out!<br />
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I can't wait to tackle my next Silhouette project!<br />
-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-80087897300007446032014-12-31T15:04:00.001-08:002014-12-31T15:04:30.335-08:00Secretary Desk MakeoverHappy New Years Eve! <br />
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For today's post, I want to share a secretary's desk that I nabbed for a steal of a deal. Here is the before.<br />
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My vision was navy with white and gold accents, but before I could even crack open the paint can, my friend fell in love, so we changed course just a bit. :) Wanting to compliment her hutch I had done a year ago, she chose white with grey accents. <br />
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And here is how it turned out!<br />
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It doesn't even look like the same piece, right?! And it will compliment her hutch perfectly! I have been wanting to tackle a secretary's desk for so long and I had so much fun with this transformation, I can't wait to do it again!! :) <br />
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Here is one last look at the before and after.<br />
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On January 3rd of this year, I published my first post and want to thank all of you for joining me on my creative
journey! I look forward to another year together!! Have a safe and happy New Years!!<br />
-Ashley <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-20413365477075836092014-12-12T15:54:00.000-08:002014-12-12T15:54:02.548-08:00Laundry Room RevealYou might be wondering what possessed me to update my laundry room - after all, it is just a laundry room, right? Here is your answer. <br />
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Does this blank wall bug anyone else as much as it bugged me?!! I always thought about updating our shelving, which would help eat up that empty space, but unfortunately, it wasn't in the budget. Time to get creative!<br />
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What do you think?<br />
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It all started with some simple scrapbook paper. I cut the 12x12 pages into strips and simply taped it to the wall. I used blue painters tape, hoping that it will be least likely to remove any paint from the wall when I'm ready to move on and try something else. And because I wanted to make it look seamless, I added colorful clothespins to each of the page breaks. Hudson LOVES doing laundry, so I casually snapped a few (or fourty) photos of him in action. LOVE!!<br />
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Here is the rest of the tour. Remember this sign? I'm still loving it so it got to stay. :)<br />
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And I found this piece at the Goodwill for $8. It's perfect for keeping all those little things (like stain sticks, dryer sheets, etc) organized.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4bNv8iCJgV8/VIt-ol41wpI/AAAAAAAAA80/9tz9E5cZk88/s1600/IMG_0194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4bNv8iCJgV8/VIt-ol41wpI/AAAAAAAAA80/9tz9E5cZk88/s1600/IMG_0194.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Opposite the washer and dryer were two paintings my husband and I did at one of those "paint and sip" classes, but they just weren't cutting it. <br />
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Instead, I added two shelves and three hooks. The hooks act as my new drying rack. Never again will I need to unfold that humongous thing! Talk about a space saver solution! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XekS0CypDKY/VIt4Napw6sI/AAAAAAAAA8U/dE0bZIbFMxU/s1600/IMAG0616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XekS0CypDKY/VIt4Napw6sI/AAAAAAAAA8U/dE0bZIbFMxU/s1600/IMAG0616.jpg" height="320" width="181" /></a></div>
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And of course, who doesn't love some cushion under your feet when doing load after load. Thank you Target!<br />
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There you have it. Laundry just got a little bit more fun. :)<br />
<br />
-Ashley<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-12498208176720988792014-11-21T20:03:00.000-08:002014-11-21T20:03:23.048-08:00DIY Mini Pennant BannerAbout a month ago, I made over my laundry room. Some may find it a little odd to jazz up such a small space, but I absolutely love the result. In fact, instead of dragging the clean clothes out to the loft to fold on the floor, I enjoy folding them right then and there on top of the washer. It's such a happy place! :)<br />
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Before I unveil the full makeover, I thought I'd show you how I dressed up a backless frame. It's sits on a shelf that I added purely to hold really cute decor, ha. Here are the materials I started with. Luckily, I had everything in my crafting stash! <br />
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I decided to paint polka dots on each of the pennants. I used the eraser end of a pencil as my paint brush. :)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VLrLv-ij9RM/VHAHDdWLzdI/AAAAAAAAA5s/fpCmxkiv_J4/s1600/IMAG0608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VLrLv-ij9RM/VHAHDdWLzdI/AAAAAAAAA5s/fpCmxkiv_J4/s1600/IMAG0608.jpg" height="320" width="181" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wipXECMvqPg/VHAHDfgRixI/AAAAAAAAA5k/3ECwrvEn07M/s1600/IMAG0609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wipXECMvqPg/VHAHDfgRixI/AAAAAAAAA5k/3ECwrvEn07M/s1600/IMAG0609.jpg" height="320" width="181" /></a></div>
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Once I had all the pieces painted, I stapled the twine to each end of the frame. Then I used mini clothespins to attach the pennants.<br />
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Done and done!<br />
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I can't wait to share the rest of the laundry room with you soon!<br />
-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-67021856176811580342014-11-10T20:11:00.001-08:002014-11-10T20:12:23.424-08:00Old Frame Turned Serving TrayCan you believe it's November?! Where in the world has the time gone! I feel like if I as much as blink, I'll be ringing in the New Year. Ha! I need life to slooooow down, just a little. Alright, moving on. :) <br />
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For the longest time, I've been wanting to take an old and forgotten picture frame, add pallet boards and transform it into a super cute rustic tray. I found the perfect frame and couldn't wait to start lining up my boards. Here is what I started with. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kOvYaiAi5Ak/VFxJL2746VI/AAAAAAAAA28/GNzKbv3Fon8/s1600/IMG_1944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kOvYaiAi5Ak/VFxJL2746VI/AAAAAAAAA28/GNzKbv3Fon8/s1600/IMG_1944.JPG" height="193" width="320" /></a></div>
Unfortunately, as I embarked on this project I realized the pallet
boards were too thick for the tray and therefore a no go. Bummer. Luckily, I had bead board left over from the Halloween
signs! I took measurements and got to cutting.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9RUjmkU_Gc0/VFxJLfPBXWI/AAAAAAAAA3A/iv3buI_g-Z0/s1600/1411691368311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9RUjmkU_Gc0/VFxJLfPBXWI/AAAAAAAAA3A/iv3buI_g-Z0/s1600/1411691368311.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Then I started layering my paint. First with a buttercream yellow, then with orange <br />
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I gave the frame a couple coats of the yellow as well.<br />
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Looking good, right? :)<br />
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Wanting to add a little something extra - I used scrapbook paper to make paper leaves and decoupaged those right onto the tray. I then outlined them using a gold paint pen. This helped give them a little pop. And finally, I transferred the word "thankful" to the center of the
tray. I used black acrylic paint to fill it in and finished it off with
a gold outline.<br />
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I used the same scrapbook paper to decoupage the entire backside of the tray as well.</div>
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Simply add your hardware and there you have it! Since I won't be entertaining this year, I decided to display the tray in my bookshelf and I just love it! :)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Epgf3obx38Y/VGGKms4pUAI/AAAAAAAAA4I/VKBMGJaEJJc/s1600/IMAG0756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Epgf3obx38Y/VGGKms4pUAI/AAAAAAAAA4I/VKBMGJaEJJc/s1600/IMAG0756.jpg" height="181" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZODeUeYy82c/VGGKm-y7PMI/AAAAAAAAA4M/ThOofxvaQ2M/s1600/IMAG0753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZODeUeYy82c/VGGKm-y7PMI/AAAAAAAAA4M/ThOofxvaQ2M/s1600/IMAG0753.jpg" height="181" width="320" /></a></div>
-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-56393604861088730192014-10-29T15:49:00.000-07:002014-10-29T15:49:00.864-07:00Kate Spade Inspired NightstandI LOVE Kate Spade. In fact, one of my favorite colors is Kate Spade green - come on, you know the one, right!?! :) I also love when she does anything with stripes or with polka dots, especially gold polka dots. And since I just can't get enough gold lately, I got a little funky with this nightstand makeover. It started out like this...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9stVWwfcpKI/VEnJOxMqA1I/AAAAAAAAA1I/1WkjAMYj7pg/s1600/IMAG0218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9stVWwfcpKI/VEnJOxMqA1I/AAAAAAAAA1I/1WkjAMYj7pg/s1600/IMAG0218.jpg" height="320" width="181" /></a></div>
And now looks like this!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NryEA6deai0/VFFqOWut0jI/AAAAAAAAA2E/1-S7OqzUrGI/s1600/IMAG0543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NryEA6deai0/VFFqOWut0jI/AAAAAAAAA2E/1-S7OqzUrGI/s1600/IMAG0543.jpg" height="320" width="181" /></a></div>
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Don't you think it's the perfect little accent table for a reading corner? I'm so tempted to keep it, haha. <br />
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I knew I wanted to do a black and peacock blue combo, but after three coats of Maison Blanche Wrought Iron and three coats of Corinth Blue, I felt it was missing something. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AHZsuFIkPQ/VEnJOzRiDmI/AAAAAAAAA10/8Y3cvI8G9c4/s1600/IMAG0393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AHZsuFIkPQ/VEnJOzRiDmI/AAAAAAAAA10/8Y3cvI8G9c4/s1600/IMAG0393.jpg" height="320" width="181" /></a></div>
Enter in Kate Spade and her inspiration for gold polka dots.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D5kyIZwakXw/VEnJPydJINI/AAAAAAAAA1g/fRCuMb7lqFM/s1600/IMAG0418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D5kyIZwakXw/VEnJPydJINI/AAAAAAAAA1g/fRCuMb7lqFM/s1600/IMAG0418.jpg" height="320" width="181" /></a></div>
NOW we were getting somewhere. I also did some gold detailing on top too! And of course found the perfect gold polka dot paper to add to the drawer. I really do love how this turned out. Here is another look!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YcGdCp2t3W0/VFFtf5ajy1I/AAAAAAAAA2k/WDJpdoECbhc/s1600/Nightstand_BeforeAfter.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YcGdCp2t3W0/VFFtf5ajy1I/AAAAAAAAA2k/WDJpdoECbhc/s1600/Nightstand_BeforeAfter.png" height="287" width="320" /></a></div>
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Until next time! :)<br />
-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-79921060078267229322014-10-17T17:01:00.001-07:002014-10-17T17:02:13.473-07:00Halloween Decoupage Wood NumbersI can't wait to show you just how easy it is to turn this...<br />
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into this!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NK0sBdRGAXA/VEGnvzYJn_I/AAAAAAAAA0U/tVGrRxic2jY/s1600/IMAG0243_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NK0sBdRGAXA/VEGnvzYJn_I/AAAAAAAAA0U/tVGrRxic2jY/s1600/IMAG0243_1.jpg" height="293" width="320" /></a></div>
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So cute, right!? I always loved the idea of using the date of the holiday within your home decor. And when I saw this paper at Hobby Lobby, I knew it'd be perfect for this project.<br />
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Now it's your turn! First, start by tracing your numbers onto your paper. Then take those numbers out to get a quick coat of paint. Make sure you paint the back and the sides.<br />
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While your letters are drying, cut out the numbers you traced.<br />
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Now it's time for some modge podge!<br />
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I put a layer on the wood and then place the paper on top, smoothing out all the wrinkles/bubbles that might appear. Make sure your paper covers the wood, but don't be too worried if some of your paper hangs over - we'll be taking care of that very professionally.<br />
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Once your paper has dried, get out a nail file - see, very professional. :) At a downward angle, file the edges of the wood. It may take a few tries in one spot, but soon you'll see the excess paper start to tear away, leaving you with a nice smooth edge.<br />
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Once you have your numbers just the way you like it, give the whole thing another layer of modge podge. That's it!! I told you it was easy and really adds to any holiday decor.<br />
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I think the next holiday I'll do this for is Valentine's Day!!<br />
-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-58006612954384439472014-10-05T22:18:00.000-07:002014-10-05T22:18:34.802-07:00Halloween Home TourI typically decorate in a more general manner at this time of year where my decorations will carry me through Fall, Halloween and Thanksgiving. This year, however, the moment it was officially Fall, I dove head first into Halloween. :) I started with items I already had and quickly discovered I needed more! So I did what any girl would do, I went shopping!! I scored a couple things from Goodwill and of course, Home Goods and Hobby Lobby.<br />
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Let's start with the kitchen. Look familiar? You can see how I made the wreath <a href="http://distress-to-impress.blogspot.com/2014/09/diy-fall-wreath.html" target="_blank">here </a>and the sign <a href="http://distress-to-impress.blogspot.com/2014/09/eat-drink-and-be-scary-halloween-sign.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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Here is my table's centerpiece. <br />
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I found the black pedestal at Goodwill and it was in such perfect condition that after a quick clean, I was able to plop it right down onto my table and add apples. It might just be me, but having just the apples provides a spooky element - like any one of them could be poisoned! Like I said, might just be me. :)<br />
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Moving on to the living room...<br />
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I also found the BOO votive holders at Goodwill - so cute, right!? <br />
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And here is my buffet and my bookshelf.<br />
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I scored this wreath at Home Goods for $2.00 on clearance. It was a natural color, but I knew with a quick coat of black spray paint, it would make the perfect spooky addition to my bookshelf.<br />
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I also practiced my decoupage skills on these wood numbers - 31 for the date of Halloween. Love that paper!!<br />
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Not done yet! Here is our powder room.<br />
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And finally the ledge at the top of the stairs. It's the line where decorations end in our home. :)<br />
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And there you have it! I hope you enjoyed the tour!!<br />
-AshleyAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-22441055804196318992014-09-21T13:55:00.000-07:002014-09-21T13:55:38.892-07:00Eat, Drink and Be Scary - Halloween SignI love when September rolls around! Not only is it my birthday month (whoop, whoop!) but it's time to start thinking about decorating for Fall and Halloween. Last year, I started making Halloween signs and received such positive feedback that I decided to do it again this year!<br />
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Today, I want to share how I made this sign...<br />
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Cute, right? It all started out with a sheet of bead board from Lowe's. I had them cut me three 12x12 squares - one for each of my frames that I had on hand at home.<br />
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Then I layered my paint. I started with two coats of orange paint, then dry brushed with white and finally finished up with a semi-dry brush of a deeper orange. I love the look of layered paint.<br />
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Then it was time to transfer my design. I spread yellow chalk on the back of my printout, flipped it over to lay the chalk side down and traced over each letter with a pencil.<br />
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See the yellow chalk outline? I then used a pencil to trace over the chalk. Once I had each letter in pencil, I wiped away all the chalk. Now I was ready to paint!<br />
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I have to apologize because I didn't capture any pics of the type of paint I used or the brush, but any acrylic paint will do. As for the brush, I used a small liner brush. Once I had each letter filled in, I gave the whole thing a quick sanding.<br />
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The last step is to add your finished piece to a frame and enjoy! Perfect! :)</div>
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This is the only part of my house currently decorated, but I have big plans to take out the rest of my decor tonight - after all, Fall is officially a couple days away!</div>
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-Ashley</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-44828813255593936732014-09-10T15:58:00.001-07:002014-09-10T15:58:19.381-07:00DIY Fall WreathI have been wanting to try my hand at wreath making for quite some time and during my recent trip to Hobby Lobby, I loaded up on all the materials I would need. After making just one, I realized what an addicting project this is! It is the perfect creative outlet where the options are endless and each one turns out a bit different. I enjoyed it so much that I want to head right back to the store to pick up more materials and do it all over again! But before I jump back in the car, I'll share with you how my first wreath turned out.<br />
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Isn't she cute!? It all started with this.<br />
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A 14" straw wreath, some garden wire, two types of burlap and a bunch of florals. I started by wrapping the straw wreath with burlap. When it was fully covered, I glued the end piece in place. I suggest trying to put the final piece in a place that will eventually be covered. This helps to give your wreath a seamless look. Mine is underneath the bow! :)<br />
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Next was the bow. I started with a short piece of the orange burlap that I folded over half way, glued in place and did the same with the other side.<br />
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Then I pinched right down the middle and secured the shape first with glue, then with garden wire.<br />
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For the tail of the bow, I folded a longer piece of the orange burlap in half. I then folded one side over the other.<br />
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I actually gave it one more fold in order to get the tails to open in opposite directions. I then secured it to the wreath.<br />
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And finally, I wrapped a small strip of burlap around the garden wire. I love how it turned out!<br />
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Then came the most creative part for me - placing and securing all the floral pieces into one bunch. I only snapped one pic because once I got in the groove, I totally lost track of the camera. :)<br />
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And there you have it! My new Fall wreath! I decided to keep this one for indoors since during staging it found a pretty good home and I can't stand moving it. :)<br />
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Gotta love Fall! <br />
-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-17904978209276061892014-09-02T22:24:00.000-07:002014-09-02T22:27:42.556-07:00DIY Wall Art Collage - Clip FramesUpstairs we have a big open space that we like to call the loft. When we had Hudson, we gated off the majority of that area to give him a safe place to play. And as Hudson grew and began coloring, drawing and painting, I wanted a place to display his artwork. A quick search for inspiration on Pinterest led me to this post on <a href="http://www.shanty-2-chic.com/2013/07/clip-frames-for-my-bedroom.html" target="_blank">Shanty2Chic</a>. I fell in love with the fabric and knew it'd be perfect for this project. Here was my first crack at it... <br />
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However, I was never exactly happy with it. So after sitting on it for months and months, I spent the labor day weekend shopping for a couple more frames and some spray paint to give that wall a little more color! Before we get to the final reveal, let's walk through how I created each frame. Here are the materials you'll need.<br />
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I went to Lowe's and bought a large sheet of plywood which I had cut down into 4 8x10's and 2 11x14's - one board for each of my frames. I then cut the fabric to size, leaving about an extra inch all around. Next up, a little staple gun action. <br />
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I then used my hot glue gun to secure each of the boards to the frame. And finally, I finished it off with a large silver clip.<br />
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I repeated the same process for each of the frames. The only difference was four of them received a quick paint job. The coverage and finish of the Vaslpar spray paint I got at Lowe's was fantastic! <br />
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With all six of my frames ready to hang, I got out the blue tape. I made a rough tape outline of each of the frames and designed my collage. The blue tape also helps with knowing exactly where to put each nail.<br />
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And there you have it - complete with Hudson's latest masterpiece. :)<br />
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I LOVE how colorful the wall is now! And it ties in perfectly to the colors already in the loft. Hudson loves pointing out his artwork, saying "I made that!!". Seeing him so proud makes me one happy mama.<br />
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-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-57448248636721791772014-08-29T20:55:00.003-07:002014-08-29T21:06:27.903-07:00DIY Valence MakeoverHi everyone! I took a small hiatus this last month and now I'm BACK! And today I wanted to share with you an item I've had on my home checklist for over three years!! My living room valences.<br />
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(Photo taken from Hudson's Baptism)</div>
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The previous owner had professionally installed three valences over each of the windows in the living room. Unfortunately, from the moment we signed the papers, I knew the fabric would have to be updated. And so after three years, I finally got around to taking care of business. :) At first I thought I'd have them redone professionally, but then I got the crazy idea to do it myself!! And since my hubby had a business trip on the horizon (which is when I get my best work done) I had the perfect opportunity to give this one a go.<br />
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After a quick trip to Joann's, I found the perfect HGTV fabric and got to work. Here is what I started with...<br />
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I carefully wrapped the new fabric right over the old and started to pin it in place.<br />
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When I got to the curved part, I started cutting small strips that would allow me to pull the fabric tight against the valence.<br />
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Once everything was pinned in placed, I did a quick check to see that the fabric was smooth in front. Then I went to town with my staple gun.<br />
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And that was it!!! Here is the before and after!<br />
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Soooo much better! Here are a few more pics...<br />
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(Please excuse the lighting - it's awful!!)</div>
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I think the new fabric really ties the entire living room together. And the entire project cost me roughly $60 - can't beat that!<br />
-Ashley<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-78377493870437526822014-07-30T15:16:00.001-07:002014-07-30T15:16:54.569-07:00Gender Reveal Party!I've always wanted to put together a "Gender Reveal Party", so when my sister told me that she was going to order a cake and invite everyone over to reveal the gender of her next baby, I jumped at the chance to add a little more flair to the party. I only had a few days to plan it, but I think it came together really well!<br />
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Here is a shot of the display as guests entered the house.<br />
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Guests were invited to "cast their vote" using blue or pink paint chips.</div>
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And since coming up with baby names can be difficult, guests were also invited to submit their baby name suggestions.<br />
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Using good ol' sticker paper, I decorated plastic cups and paired them with blue and pink straws. My sister prepared PINK lemonade and ice tea - served in a BLUE pitcher, of course! :)<br />
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I wish I had snagged a picture of the actual cake, but amongst all the excitement and anticipation, it totally slipped my mind. So what are my sister and her husband expecting?? A baby BOY!!! Congrats to them both! <br />
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-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-29519121329265420522014-07-18T15:18:00.001-07:002014-07-18T15:22:33.119-07:00Desk MakeoverI loooove farmhouse tables. In fact, one of my very first furniture projects was this beauty!<br />
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I scored her off Craigslist for $200 and my husband and I went to work. He sanded her down entirely and I stained. Like I said, it was my first project so it's not perfect, but I definitely learned a thing or two and I love her. AND she's the perfect table to handle a toddler. :)<br />
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When I saw this desk at an antique store, I had to have it and give it a little farmhouse update.<br />
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I started with three coats of General Finishes Snow White on the body and the drawers.<br />
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Then I did three coats of General Finishes Java Gel Stain for the top.<br />
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I loved the original hardware, so I didn't touch a thing there, but I did line the drawers with some really cute orange paper. And here she is!<br />
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It may have been a pretty straight forward makeover, but I think it really gave this table new life. It would look fantastic in any home either as a desk or even an entry table. The possibilities are endless!<br />
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-Ashley <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-2315758223842490182014-07-15T15:15:00.000-07:002014-07-16T20:37:33.264-07:00Rustic Kitchen SignA month or so ago, I got the itch to redecorate the space above my kitchen cabinets. Years ago, I settled in on a rustic wine theme, which I still love, but I used to switch out the decor each season - "Lemons and Limes" in the Spring and Summer and "Apples and Cinnamon" in the Fall/Winter. These days, however, I'm really into simple, clean and timeless.<br />
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Today I wanted to share a sign that I made in about 15 minutes. And the best part about it is that it cost me $0! I started with some wood scraps and burlap that I had laying around the workshop.<br />
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I wrapped the wood in burlap and used my staple gun to secure the burlap to the wood.<br />
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Then I lined up and secured the stencils. And finally used a sponge brush to apply the black paint.<br />
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And that was that!<br />
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I liked the sign as is, but really wanted to make it more rustic, so I of course called on my Dad to build me a frame. :) <br />
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He made the most beautiful frame, which I then stained my favorite color.<br />
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NOW we're talking! Don't you love it!?!<br />
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And the wine bottle I found at the thrift store for $2!<br />
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That's a wrap for the kitchen! :)<br />
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-AshleyAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-68143956340447202182014-06-28T11:27:00.000-07:002014-06-28T11:29:01.855-07:00End Tables - Before And AfterI was given the opportunity to paint these gorgeous end tables when my husband's grandmother downsized her living space.<br />
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The tables were in really good condition, so very little prep was needed. In fact, only two minor gouges needed to be filled with wood putty.<br />
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I bought General Finishes Corinth Blue specifically for my son's step stool, but had a secret plan to use it on these tables, deepened with dark wax and topped with gold accents - a combo I've been wanting to try for a VERY long time!<br />
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After taping the hardware on the feet of these tables, I got to work.<br />
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Look at the difference in coverage from one coat to two coats - loving the color!<br />
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It took three coats to get the finish I wanted. Wanting to deepen the color, I gave each table two coats of dark brown wax. And finally, I gave the hardware a quick coat using Krylon's Gold Leaf spray paint.<br />
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I removed the tape and put all the pieces back together and absolutely loved the result!<br />
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Going into this project, I wasn't 100% sure that we would be keeping these tables, although we had hoped too keep them in the family. But the moment I put them in our living room, they didn't move. :) I have to update a few pieces of my old decor, like the lamps, but absolutely love the pop of color against the grey.<br />
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And as usual with Home Goods, I was able to find the perfect pillow and blanket storage solution to match the tables.<br />
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-AshleyAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-72580267787927279512014-06-20T20:58:00.002-07:002014-06-20T20:59:28.396-07:00Bathroom Step Stool MakeoverI have been looking for a nice sturdy step stool for my son's bathroom for quite some time. And just when I was ready to bite the bullet and order one off Amazon, I came across the exact same one at Goodwill for (drum roll please...) $3!!! A little beat up, but nothing I couldn't handle. :)<br />
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Let's first start with my inspiration for this stool.<br />
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My son's entire bathroom was decorated around that cute little whale card, which I obviously found SO cute, I framed it. From there, I found the perfect scalloped shower curtain at Target. And then I put together a couple more images to frame and/or transfer onto canvas.<br />
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Now back to the plan for the step stool...<br />
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Since I planned on painting it white using General Finishes Snow White, I wanted to give my piece a quick coat of white spray paint as a primer.<br />
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I absolutely LOVE General Finishes Milk Paint because of it's amazing coverage, but I actually had to give this little guy 4 coats - it was totally worth it! Next I used my new Silhoutte Cameo to cut out a scalloped stencil.<br />
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I poked out the cut pieces and taped it to the stool.<br />
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Since I have no patience, I used cardstock for my stencil instead of vinyl, so I ended up with a little bit of bleed through. Nothing a little touch up paint couldn't fix though!<br />
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With the scallops done, I knew I wanted to add a few of those colorful "splashes". I decided to do one on the very top and one on each side. I used what I call the "pencil transfer method" to get the outline of the splash onto the stool so I could then paint it in. You first start by covering the entire back of your design with pencil.<br />
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Then you tape it up and trace over the actual design.<br />
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This then transfers the pencil onto your piece. Worked like a gem!<br />
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All I had to do now was fill it in...<br />
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Here it is in it's new home!<br />
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My son loves climbing up and having his teeth brushed and I love not having to chase him down - win win!<br />
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One last look at the before and after.<br />
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-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-3710758826090629822014-06-15T21:03:00.000-07:002014-06-15T21:03:46.081-07:00Hudson's 2nd Birthday Party!Last Saturday, we celebrated Hudson's 2nd birthday with a house full of family and friends! We were blessed with the most beautiful day so most of the party was spent outdoors in the backyard. Every time I saw Hudson running here or running there, he had giant smile on his face because he was having so much fun playing with his friends. It was priceless. :)<br />
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A couple posts ago, I shared a little sneak peek of my plans for the party. I'm excited to show you how everything turned out!<br />
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Our guests were greeted at the front door with a bouquet of balloons - my husband had a great idea to put "Right Field", "Center Field" and "Left Field" on each of our fence doors and front door, but unfortunately he came up with this great idea the day of the party. Not a lot of time for execution. :) <br />
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Our guests then made their way through the living room to the....<br />
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CONCESSIONS!!<br />
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Here is Hudson, scoping out the food.<br />
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From the kitchen, our guests were able to find seating outside.<br />
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I LOVED how these centerpieces turned out!<br />
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On display were the two (that's right, I said two) cakes that my sister made for Hudson. They were amazing!<br />
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That's it - a very happy birthday for my little boy.<br />
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-Ashley<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232292096381043960.post-46197144511990562942014-05-22T16:25:00.004-07:002014-05-22T20:42:12.975-07:00Dining Buffet - Before And AfterA few months ago, I was given the opportunity to try out a new line of paint. However, I was waiting for the right piece to try it out on! That took a little longer than expected. But good things really do come to those who wait because I ended up landing the most beautiful dining buffet at the most beautiful price. :)<br />
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I knew I would be painting the body of the table light grey as well as upgrading the hardware. But I wasn't quite sure what to do for the top of the table until I saw this photo from <a href="http://www.confessionsofaserialdiyer.com/" target="_blank">Confessions Of A Serial Do-It-Yourselfer</a>. If you haven't checked out Christy's blog, do it! She does some really fun things!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HnrnnK1nv3k/U36CXBBZeOI/AAAAAAAAAYM/GsNzrb0qlPs/s1600/Dining-Table-Makeover2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HnrnnK1nv3k/U36CXBBZeOI/AAAAAAAAAYM/GsNzrb0qlPs/s1600/Dining-Table-Makeover2.jpg" height="195" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.confessionsofaserialdiyer.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Inspired by Christy, I knew I wanted to do a very dark stain on the top of the buffet as well as the small strip inbetween the two drawers. So to work I went!<br />
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I started with three coats on the drawers and doors.<br />
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And then got to work on the body. Here is the first coat...<br />
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And here she is with three coats! Looking good!<br />
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The whole piece (except the top) then got a bit of distressing. Here is a pic of the doors and drawers.<br />
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I prepped the already painted areas for the stain. You can go two routes with this particular type of stain - 1) paint it on and wipe it off, repeat or 2) just paint it on, repeat. I went with the latter and LOVED the results.<br />
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And here she is!!! <br />
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I love the mix of original hardware with some new! And since I decided to keep this piece (I just HAD to!!) I lined the drawers with teal paper to match my living room lamps. Here she is in our real life, ha....<br />
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-Ashley Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779476900542873181noreply@blogger.com4