I love this flatware

Inspired by the old solid sterling pattern by Tiffany and Co., <a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/Family.aspx?c=100&f=675">this stainless flatware</a> is a steal at $36.95 for a 5-piece setting. Perfect for achieving that eclectic and classic, straight-out-of-Domino look.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57_IRiV-_r_X7WAONLYoBhJ9HHgpfaIT5dq6bS-ovM_zhCVByLnTopj60pr1Mzfq134AYt0DqpuRarx4wMK_ssrI7Qtec98UwWHcHZ4wWfFaCI20B6rBDbVfKOJoNk0AvbRwEdYjtuOnM/s1600-h/Picture+7.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261967722245176530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57_IRiV-_r_X7WAONLYoBhJ9HHgpfaIT5dq6bS-ovM_zhCVByLnTopj60pr1Mzfq134AYt0DqpuRarx4wMK_ssrI7Qtec98UwWHcHZ4wWfFaCI20B6rBDbVfKOJoNk0AvbRwEdYjtuOnM/s400/Picture+7.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 250px;" /></a><br /><a href="http://brilliantasylum.blogspot.com/2008/10/stick-fork-in-me-im-done.html">Via</a>

I love this flatware

Inspired by the old solid sterling pattern by Tiffany and Co., this stainless flatware is a steal at $36.95 for a 5-piece setting. Perfect ...

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A New Take on the Classic Chandelier

While I don't think I would want this exact (rectangular) chandelier from <a href="http://www.horchow.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=cprod38050097&parentId=cat000099&masterId=cat1590731&index=101&cmCat=cat000000cat1590731cat000099">Horchow</a> (even if I could afford it! $$$), I am really struck by this idea of adding a single shade to a chandelier.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZ76PjY7n0XJBy4t7jwxKM-88QCsA72vRRHBGEivrhJSYr99goyHms-5FM1vaADmEHxtPNQf9-yC9pQ_qHJ3YAvLNz0rPFekVDkAmnLdeNl5C68Vci4HzbkBEnkXQMaTlMdpmrnYxRlck/s1600-h/HCH31C3_mj.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261265392298150210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZ76PjY7n0XJBy4t7jwxKM-88QCsA72vRRHBGEivrhJSYr99goyHms-5FM1vaADmEHxtPNQf9-yC9pQ_qHJ3YAvLNz0rPFekVDkAmnLdeNl5C68Vci4HzbkBEnkXQMaTlMdpmrnYxRlck/s400/HCH31C3_mj.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 230px; height: 288px;" /></a><br />In dining rooms especially, I love the classic drum shade pendent lamp look, but I also really like chandeliers. What a great way to modernize a very traditional look. I wonder if I could source out the right shade to pull off a DIY version?<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://heidiclaire.blogspot.com/2008/10/more-chandeliers.html">via</a>

A New Take on the Classic Chandelier

While I don't think I would want this exact (rectangular) chandelier from Horchow (even if I could afford it! $$$), I am really struck ...

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Restoring Vintage Furniture

Reader Bethany wrote in asking for some advice on reviving a vintage, mid-century dining table and four chairs she recently purchased.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg14Cb8vhovpQ2REsE0PbIvHzJ5rECKvcFrmI_jimqcSOxTq5uNQpgHTPaftJd1nIAVgxR46JpM-1I1lfa9g7NigK9L8fQ-W3SQ9irz6S4J6mPg6_9Y3WWdpPMiytN26Rm6y8ud8j-iXxo/s1600-h/table+full.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259439604107440866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg14Cb8vhovpQ2REsE0PbIvHzJ5rECKvcFrmI_jimqcSOxTq5uNQpgHTPaftJd1nIAVgxR46JpM-1I1lfa9g7NigK9L8fQ-W3SQ9irz6S4J6mPg6_9Y3WWdpPMiytN26Rm6y8ud8j-iXxo/s400/table+full.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />Her beautiful dining set was made by Drexel (now <a href="http://www.drexelheritage.com/index2.asp">Drexel Heritage</a>), a wonderful company and an old stand-by in American furniture.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhagQR3uUZSqoCDAFydKId-pKI4BJXTliu-pfcKUnX8f-IJq8pmsNQNTIsIRhqvCs4yT1LkuoedkrzmdVuc9TkqwfNBhJqhdzDrwyOK37ITVu1pgZ8u5Sddst31WQCdMK2v6p3lMQRh_eR3/s1600-h/Table+label.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259439605191850130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhagQR3uUZSqoCDAFydKId-pKI4BJXTliu-pfcKUnX8f-IJq8pmsNQNTIsIRhqvCs4yT1LkuoedkrzmdVuc9TkqwfNBhJqhdzDrwyOK37ITVu1pgZ8u5Sddst31WQCdMK2v6p3lMQRh_eR3/s400/Table+label.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>I think with just a little elbow grease, Bethany's table and chairs will look stunning! Here are my suggestions:<br /><br />For the couple of gouges and scratches in the surface of the table, pick up one of these great Minwax brand wax pencils as well as some wood putty at your local Lowe's or Home Depot.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vgTxJfSRVZMTeIvtWVIWnFPBHYsLQQLDbFUeTYd1OUbC2-tl1lydNu8imFTSwGQOjmgf7nL2yVoZsyf3uNf4UpPP5Dd4e1MJs-sQnoV-QCielplMVB84cUrNQ5xSBm1p8nSsnuxqSXmV/s1600-h/minwax+pencil.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260189192911958722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vgTxJfSRVZMTeIvtWVIWnFPBHYsLQQLDbFUeTYd1OUbC2-tl1lydNu8imFTSwGQOjmgf7nL2yVoZsyf3uNf4UpPP5Dd4e1MJs-sQnoV-QCielplMVB84cUrNQ5xSBm1p8nSsnuxqSXmV/s400/minwax+pencil.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsqWLOq0l1bMEG6oNQAOkcpnhExPJcqxJxBBlV5wy6mr44h3wDpk8MEPrC4mNInwAC2KRhd6B7oc9vLlam5QDLuwkg2LPgwJrUxmdF7r1dmuJQnN39bYsn37TgygJRT9wjvfy6o2JE83nd/s1600-h/wood+putty.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260188176514107538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsqWLOq0l1bMEG6oNQAOkcpnhExPJcqxJxBBlV5wy6mr44h3wDpk8MEPrC4mNInwAC2KRhd6B7oc9vLlam5QDLuwkg2LPgwJrUxmdF7r1dmuJQnN39bYsn37TgygJRT9wjvfy6o2JE83nd/s400/wood+putty.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" /></a> Both products can be purchased in a variety of wood colors, making it easy to match your table without requiring additional stain after the fact. Use both the wax pencil and the putty to fill and blend in the problem areas.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55lYPXGuf7XL7cMf4JVgZ5x6d4d9QYwR0Ylu63toeiG8mQgGpoNpkfFR6yn8yYmKqvkX2xTqkWfMBP1ufQRoAWlkieRUibDUyfYOmE2k_6WUNZfwKR9S3btL165oaBvvfkfT9AZ9qFLsw/s1600-h/wood+putty+colors.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260188116753463970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55lYPXGuf7XL7cMf4JVgZ5x6d4d9QYwR0Ylu63toeiG8mQgGpoNpkfFR6yn8yYmKqvkX2xTqkWfMBP1ufQRoAWlkieRUibDUyfYOmE2k_6WUNZfwKR9S3btL165oaBvvfkfT9AZ9qFLsw/s400/wood+putty+colors.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" /></a>Once the scratches have been filled, you are ready to tackle the finish. If the table and chairs were in worse condition, they would need to be stripped and stained, which would be a LOT of work. Luckily for Bethany, I think her dining set doesn't need anything that drastic:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKJuDNFL_2MjiH5ewKUHZv2lhG641tRO3llZ6Bi1YrCvs3cxzJ_L1SdcSAmyu7XyPeJrvp6xDvfE0xDR8EVJSPgJHxXoUg5rmi0U1rbNUGdIRp_aKXgQ6FA74Bp7lIl6IlIOaVcdw_2yA/s1600-h/table+scratches.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259439617264717074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKJuDNFL_2MjiH5ewKUHZv2lhG641tRO3llZ6Bi1YrCvs3cxzJ_L1SdcSAmyu7XyPeJrvp6xDvfE0xDR8EVJSPgJHxXoUg5rmi0U1rbNUGdIRp_aKXgQ6FA74Bp7lIl6IlIOaVcdw_2yA/s400/table+scratches.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />A couple years ago, I bought a beautiful antique English side table. The wood was in pretty good shape other than a little discoloring on the table top. I didn't want to deal with stripping, sanding and staining the whole thing, so I took a little leap of faith and made a splurge purchase at Home Depot when I happened upon <a href="http://www.howardproducts.com/restora.htm">Restor-A-Finish</a>. Turns out, it's magic in a bottle.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_kFlSJft4PdnBYGj76aDH0kQrIF8jdoOjuAoNZVMoyMweZIOo_fm_7ifusUabbU8p1H6vUi3MVV71V0ghL0ILy1oH_c9pdiF1cYWjtI15KrG70Nv7OkNsCWOdU-NKIn3LnrDhj4JyAnO/s1600-h/apartment+therapy+dresser.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260188099953689154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_kFlSJft4PdnBYGj76aDH0kQrIF8jdoOjuAoNZVMoyMweZIOo_fm_7ifusUabbU8p1H6vUi3MVV71V0ghL0ILy1oH_c9pdiF1cYWjtI15KrG70Nv7OkNsCWOdU-NKIn3LnrDhj4JyAnO/s400/apartment+therapy+dresser.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 276px;" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">image from <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/la/painting-fixing-repairs/great-products-restorafinish-and-feednwax-053669">Apartment Therapy</a></span></span><br /><br />This website has the <a href="http://www.minksemporium.com/Demonstration.html">rediculously easy instructions</a> for applying Restor-A-Finish and Feed-N-Wax, which I also recommend. The whole process should take you about an hour, start to finish, table and chairs. I love these sorts of projects. Short, easy and cheap, with huge results!<br /><br />Now for the trickier part. The chair upholstery.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmWflQbLaTmyidgZ3vPATXsZBRNoY157jlD061e4kbtYel0qy5FzaXIl-6mNgMOHERLTsy9tIofmxT8iwH75-ahVSkmtBS1LW3j7S_DxO-Ieh0JRrEosv1aLNHTKe804RYgAYECICS_N2/s1600-h/chair.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259440198339109410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmWflQbLaTmyidgZ3vPATXsZBRNoY157jlD061e4kbtYel0qy5FzaXIl-6mNgMOHERLTsy9tIofmxT8iwH75-ahVSkmtBS1LW3j7S_DxO-Ieh0JRrEosv1aLNHTKe804RYgAYECICS_N2/s400/chair.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />The person that sold Bethany the set had done some research on the chairs and thought they might be designed by Danish designer Jon Van Koert. The shape is really incredible. I think the right fabric will help turn these chairs into something extra special again.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPdLZP8gSiqKx8APzRiavpb4Vteabg5_O3hTE4CgxMlFbJhl7U2a4iD1GtxGgA_fLCnmdFrcm3fW-UMBvWdjfeLpB5Hj7O8V5true51o6GZtqYPcDItiU3wH6wzg_iuAK_8Ir92HGAi9Np/s1600-h/chair+joint.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259440477550839522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPdLZP8gSiqKx8APzRiavpb4Vteabg5_O3hTE4CgxMlFbJhl7U2a4iD1GtxGgA_fLCnmdFrcm3fW-UMBvWdjfeLpB5Hj7O8V5true51o6GZtqYPcDItiU3wH6wzg_iuAK_8Ir92HGAi9Np/s400/chair+joint.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />Here are the supplies you'll want to gather for this project:<br /><br />1. Staple Gun, any old $15 one at Home Depot will do, but for a little more money, you can buy my very favorite staple gun, the PowerShot Pro. The design is a little different and is easier on the hands and wrist, which can make a big difference after a few hundred staples!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhontUsGPA-jWQ7YM7osmE9K1Wi2vbE-9pufLGrcOKPbmpCPdPA0nZ5Z62j9eoeg7lxrqyOoHrzUc2_F-FghpkiHQCVZrKVyOal2RceJ3FPtDDhoCjIa95Drk9V1LdcHmGcZ0-EJxBqWeAU/s1600-h/powershot+pro+staple+gun.aspx" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260188109421816066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhontUsGPA-jWQ7YM7osmE9K1Wi2vbE-9pufLGrcOKPbmpCPdPA0nZ5Z62j9eoeg7lxrqyOoHrzUc2_F-FghpkiHQCVZrKVyOal2RceJ3FPtDDhoCjIa95Drk9V1LdcHmGcZ0-EJxBqWeAU/s400/powershot+pro+staple+gun.aspx" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 250px;" /></a><br />2. Staples, 3/8", one box should do it for this project. Make sure to buy the brand that fits your new staple gun.<br /><br />3. Upholstery Needles. These curved needles are great for upholstery projects. They practically do all the work for you when you are hand sewing.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioH3ct10SWJeVW_Uo_nEbjZSkO9jR92GC6qBXTlYaAJPnQinW6qYlyqrd5K4iCRcRRtcvxgzkQ-FNtUI1K6QPWsYK8AIiJU0Nl78bhGLVcjqzAy5ffc2BqcOzrnZPDxa2RCrqX-g6aGUVS/s1600-h/upholstery+needles.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260188112164377346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioH3ct10SWJeVW_Uo_nEbjZSkO9jR92GC6qBXTlYaAJPnQinW6qYlyqrd5K4iCRcRRtcvxgzkQ-FNtUI1K6QPWsYK8AIiJU0Nl78bhGLVcjqzAy5ffc2BqcOzrnZPDxa2RCrqX-g6aGUVS/s400/upholstery+needles.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 189px; height: 400px;" /></a><br />4. Upholstery Thread to match your fabric. Regular thread is not strong enough.<br /><br />5. Batting. A yard or two of standard poly batting should be plenty.<br /><br />6. Adhesive<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1trusQ-wNXQjO01rUId3P77bIF1EZS03E4h82UT16kDjZ0-SjscrN2c4OGRzNGnI18CSMTS1X1VRXVgSaSSJ7nj7UnxT9bNjGLgDvj8tFTwFRmaU9gxfD28ehf2QnrHFz_65vphfxgh8J/s1600-h/fabritac.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260213171718507858" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1trusQ-wNXQjO01rUId3P77bIF1EZS03E4h82UT16kDjZ0-SjscrN2c4OGRzNGnI18CSMTS1X1VRXVgSaSSJ7nj7UnxT9bNjGLgDvj8tFTwFRmaU9gxfD28ehf2QnrHFz_65vphfxgh8J/s400/fabritac.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 138px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyG9dwxsKRgSA_awebKOcwdUvyu7yG1ONKMMtuxYoKb1pYJbT2QsArsz7DK_k_T64nbbFyIU8StAIxRfTPU7QU1gFjTwt0ihqhSKzLS9kH8DPOpGYul7MK-ZGC0y71XcqYXVAYW4sqbQj/s1600-h/90_SPRY.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260213169130695522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyG9dwxsKRgSA_awebKOcwdUvyu7yG1ONKMMtuxYoKb1pYJbT2QsArsz7DK_k_T64nbbFyIU8StAIxRfTPU7QU1gFjTwt0ihqhSKzLS9kH8DPOpGYul7MK-ZGC0y71XcqYXVAYW4sqbQj/s400/90_SPRY.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a><br />7. Piping<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiIBbMuAwms78ezBGI8Z9_qS_6M8tsDX_mcXGpVFpYA5FQMZkxrkgoVQv-wO4rtdnEjB2pYSuMSO30nnhkHsB3d2oinSLYQ_I8xg6sM7ORPdikkPTtSPYsOI_e0uE_GfjxXevngRrrRLE/s1600-h/wr_piping.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260213171246741170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiIBbMuAwms78ezBGI8Z9_qS_6M8tsDX_mcXGpVFpYA5FQMZkxrkgoVQv-wO4rtdnEjB2pYSuMSO30nnhkHsB3d2oinSLYQ_I8xg6sM7ORPdikkPTtSPYsOI_e0uE_GfjxXevngRrrRLE/s400/wr_piping.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 189px;" /></a><br />8. Fabric. About 3 yards. Do yourself a favor and avoid stripes or any pattern that requires exact matching up of the repeats. Use a solid or a loose print like a floral or a paisley.<br /><br />Bethany mentioned in her email that she'd like to find some vintage fabric for her chairs. I know I say this all the time, but eBay is a great place to buy fabrics at an incredible price. I recommend using linen for DIY upholstery jobs. Linen is very easy to work with and is very forgiving. Plus, I am partial to the look of linen. In fact, I'm finishing up some of my own dining chairs in a gray linen that gives me butterflies in my stomach everytime I look at it!<br /><br />Bethany mentioned to me that she likes the organic/natural modern look. Here are some of my favorite upholstery weight fabrics available on eBay now that might go with that theme. Most of these are bright and cheerful, and are probably more look than what you're after, Bethany. Although, it could be really great to have the fabric on your chairs be the real color statement in an otherwise neutral dining area.<br /><br /><a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-Heavy-Linen-Hawaiin-Flower-Fabric_W0QQitemZ220299689534QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item220299689534&_trkparms=39%3A1%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A10%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14">Vintage floral</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaD1x_MWbZpl_XRIkFKbhoPJWsUVS3IBbFhoPaZWw6Gscj3DB2Q6swWk1xpirH3iCOqdoSN8SkQVoXun6Mw1WEUXABDhbNKhe3v5JI98FdBT2IgQqPF87edTWEHOul_HKQaB2W5rVl-yd/s1600-h/vintage+floral+fabric.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260202214673620722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaD1x_MWbZpl_XRIkFKbhoPJWsUVS3IBbFhoPaZWw6Gscj3DB2Q6swWk1xpirH3iCOqdoSN8SkQVoXun6Mw1WEUXABDhbNKhe3v5JI98FdBT2IgQqPF87edTWEHOul_HKQaB2W5rVl-yd/s400/vintage+floral+fabric.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a><a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/BERRIES-modern-floral-grey-green-Upholstery-Fabric-54_W0QQitemZ380032909018QQcmdZViewItem?_trksid=p3286.m20.l1116">Mod berries</a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dKftc2UDr4b1Cko341H2CeBIrB9yI96BYDIobg3_Kt2LagjNcERKIihi23BY5VY0rDJaBYOfxbiHYrZ40ujXBM4GDLPZn2nKgc8dONIpwwiIg5Swba3oGdcksqHvQ-12RvpfX9hLe_CD/s1600-h/berries_granite_roll.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260206832373706866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dKftc2UDr4b1Cko341H2CeBIrB9yI96BYDIobg3_Kt2LagjNcERKIihi23BY5VY0rDJaBYOfxbiHYrZ40ujXBM4GDLPZn2nKgc8dONIpwwiIg5Swba3oGdcksqHvQ-12RvpfX9hLe_CD/s400/berries_granite_roll.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 287px;" /></a><br /><a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-Eames-Era-Brown-Dotted-Upholstery-Fabric_W0QQitemZ220299686495QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item220299686495&_trkparms=39%3A1%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A10%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14">Vintage dots</a> -- Very "Hable Constuction"<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxlKdMLvXklJrSOI5eoFBCcUf2MQOQNcdLHcFLeHjF4hvMja404xKDlqjhVy9t7K4GaFoR4-_Q15UvKlnNMDp691O7ze-85hFgNmwvgB6roMwnTNTAwkSRDtRsScEhxtrnxU_Eh4nWRxgV/s1600-h/vintage+dots.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260206832143990418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxlKdMLvXklJrSOI5eoFBCcUf2MQOQNcdLHcFLeHjF4hvMja404xKDlqjhVy9t7K4GaFoR4-_Q15UvKlnNMDp691O7ze-85hFgNmwvgB6roMwnTNTAwkSRDtRsScEhxtrnxU_Eh4nWRxgV/s400/vintage+dots.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a><a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/Victoria-Hagan-Early-Spring-Linen-Fabric_W0QQitemZ290269461401QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item290269461401&_trkparms=39%3A1%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A10%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14"><br />by Victoria Hagen</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZKy7tZXkS9IhOkapucmDgy5AWJPbTdld1Eoal3ioXloYbnoMz1a5frcn87uXrXPWp0tyceUyuKPJyAHcRulUK0OuBD1nhUlowgi6L0DKDGYI64K5HJG3tGI2FD2GH4Wa9nvgg0VA9FT3/s1600-h/victoria+hagen.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260202218126696482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZKy7tZXkS9IhOkapucmDgy5AWJPbTdld1Eoal3ioXloYbnoMz1a5frcn87uXrXPWp0tyceUyuKPJyAHcRulUK0OuBD1nhUlowgi6L0DKDGYI64K5HJG3tGI2FD2GH4Wa9nvgg0VA9FT3/s400/victoria+hagen.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a><br />More fabric than you need <a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/18y-EXQUISITE-IVORY-LATTICE-LINEN-UPHOLSTERY-Fabric_W0QQitemZ140276631220QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item140276631220&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=66%3A2%7C65%3A10%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318">but still beautiful</a><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkpB5-6vDTIXGFQvte8fOHPVOyuBtLscrEYMg4uSyt__m3D_mc-p5-wj4mVfCLf5nNeX0rtTudtRtj3TiSggz2O3YnQr9slvGmzb2nvrVufrOuyn3X7TOrXBuACK4aVYnLjdJNCyZQQAN/s1600-h/lattice.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260202601562232738" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkpB5-6vDTIXGFQvte8fOHPVOyuBtLscrEYMg4uSyt__m3D_mc-p5-wj4mVfCLf5nNeX0rtTudtRtj3TiSggz2O3YnQr9slvGmzb2nvrVufrOuyn3X7TOrXBuACK4aVYnLjdJNCyZQQAN/s400/lattice.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 341px;" /></a><br />This <a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/Mod-AMY-BUTLER-OPTIC-BLOSSOM-Linen-Floral-Fabric-3-yds_W0QQitemZ350111316322QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item350111316322&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=66%3A2%7C65%3A10%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318">Amy Butler fabric</a> would be great.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGV_0qUwjYxRMP-tIE55l9C_Mp1ZuZ6uJCf96hxuDgqrKmK0gCOnJ-cAhou1Qn6JDigfBZz87dfllUiLcbqUvrOKfx50MLJOXEzuFrWRI68dAKRDs7vO08GXiTDQmRh2Kmdw3cu_CtWEN/s1600-h/optic+blossom.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260202221736912674" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGV_0qUwjYxRMP-tIE55l9C_Mp1ZuZ6uJCf96hxuDgqrKmK0gCOnJ-cAhou1Qn6JDigfBZz87dfllUiLcbqUvrOKfx50MLJOXEzuFrWRI68dAKRDs7vO08GXiTDQmRh2Kmdw3cu_CtWEN/s400/optic+blossom.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 251px; height: 251px;" /></a><br />Once you've ordered a few yards of fabric and gathered together your other supplies, you're ready to get started. Here are my instructions for reupholstering these chairs:<br /><br />Drop Seats:<br /><br />1. Pull off all the old fabric.<br />2. Using the old fabric as a template, cut new batting and fabric for the seats. You may want to be a little generous with your borders. You can always trim away excess fabric after stapling, whereas it can be tricky getting a smooth seat with too little fabric to work with.<br />3. Using a spray adhesive or a little bit of FabriTac, glue the batting in place on the seat.<br />4. Position the fabric piece under the seat and batting. Moving in a circular motion, and pulling the fabric taught, but not too tight, staple the fabric and batting layers into place on the underside of the seat.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWMa96Rf12gDhJ3M296MBKFVf8WuptEVwRquN8GTGR0yfoaPafRwZV4YKdiSLXMzJubhWSXlA7A0lNC91gtfAy1Jh1rLywL4zAj37EcRLbqUzy6PubYYLyslgLR_x6oS2f4QpyiDjTENr/s1600-h/chair+underside.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259440344310121218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWMa96Rf12gDhJ3M296MBKFVf8WuptEVwRquN8GTGR0yfoaPafRwZV4YKdiSLXMzJubhWSXlA7A0lNC91gtfAy1Jh1rLywL4zAj37EcRLbqUzy6PubYYLyslgLR_x6oS2f4QpyiDjTENr/s400/chair+underside.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />5. If an area looks too tight or too loose, simply pull up the staples with a flat head screw driver and try again.<br />6. A quick word on the corners. There are any number of ways to fold the fabric around the corners of the seat. Experiment with different folds until you find a style that looks good to you. Then make sure you are consistent with every corner. Consistently folded edges and a taught, smooth fit are the keys to a professional-looking upholstery job.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuoSxxfE13w57sj17TxYPYELwuUYLnF6aCrJHpKampdKr07Z5l9T_C1sBa7yuoAMPJA7A_8w7Wqaulap5wD54heCAYDA4xh4SLryIO-jqZYnb3LiE9HzLJ1NHOuXJnBa3D19I3QdFB7F63/s1600-h/chair+upolstery.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259440193567396642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuoSxxfE13w57sj17TxYPYELwuUYLnF6aCrJHpKampdKr07Z5l9T_C1sBa7yuoAMPJA7A_8w7Wqaulap5wD54heCAYDA4xh4SLryIO-jqZYnb3LiE9HzLJ1NHOuXJnBa3D19I3QdFB7F63/s400/chair+upolstery.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><br />Seat Backs:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCq7HF7_Xeir8bWTCZtNeFnAo1OvrbRoChIQNpZmr9NQdoqpb_5z9TnmGzIovNXz3VWqE0okhZSjiCc9iacu-GijJ2jtvzfwAx_UaI6MuQSokUtKpUqmBSwcp013u7K0ubD-y3oVBZx4rY/s1600-h/chair+back2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260188104434697826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCq7HF7_Xeir8bWTCZtNeFnAo1OvrbRoChIQNpZmr9NQdoqpb_5z9TnmGzIovNXz3VWqE0okhZSjiCc9iacu-GijJ2jtvzfwAx_UaI6MuQSokUtKpUqmBSwcp013u7K0ubD-y3oVBZx4rY/s400/chair+back2.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 310px;" /></a><br />1. Closely examine the way the seat backs were sewn on before. Take a few up-close pictures to remind you later.<br />2. Follow the existing seam and use a seam ripper to remove the old fabric. Use one of these as a templet for cutting your new fabric, making sure there is enough fabric along the seam to fold about a half-inch back on all sides (a seam allowance).<br />2. Use your sewing machine to add trim to the edges. The easiest way to get trim is to buy the pre-made piping at a fabric store (Wrights brand). I love the look of a contrasting trim. There is something about dark welting against light fabric (or vica versa) that looks classic but still fun.<br />If you're feeling really ambitious, you can make your own welting using your fabric for a more subtle look.<br />3. Carefully press the fabric along the seams and pin into place, where the back seam originally was. Using a curved upholstery needle and matching upholstery thread, hand-sew down the edges of the chair back cover, hiding the stitches under and between the rows of piping.<br />4. Using a straight needle and upholstery thread, carefully blind stitch the seat back cover into place along the back seam, across the back of the chair. Use small, tight stitches.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi74vM4o0LfV2DAiU0uipJBkPKNST_z_53NhWLI9AJS242SEmkRulz4Zr9JKH2ZZ-CA3jGRMI4lYbyvf_IG5ciACaKjTS1mQg7AY4akvRLdAAItJSn6-6RvleS2zn5ZyLm2X5cNNlTnVFlk/s1600-h/chair+back.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259440184735511426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi74vM4o0LfV2DAiU0uipJBkPKNST_z_53NhWLI9AJS242SEmkRulz4Zr9JKH2ZZ-CA3jGRMI4lYbyvf_IG5ciACaKjTS1mQg7AY4akvRLdAAItJSn6-6RvleS2zn5ZyLm2X5cNNlTnVFlk/s400/chair+back.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>5. Stand back and admire your work! Then take lots of pictures to share with us!<br /><br />Good luck, Bethany! We can't wait to see the results!

Restoring Vintage Furniture

Reader Bethany wrote in asking for some advice on reviving a vintage, mid-century dining table and four chairs she recently purchased. Her b...

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Make Your Own "Vintage" Photos

I can't remember where I learned about <a href="http://labs.wanokoto.jp/olds">this website</a> that converts your photos into vintage-looking images, but thanks to whoever it was. It's an awesome resource.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Don't be deterred by all the Japanese characters on the page, it's super easy to figure out. Just upload your photo using the browse button and then click the blue button under that. It looks like this:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1tLS7-4jHSeePbE3OohMqW072-FXdK2IWzjhlMxStLCtUAmoEKYYS3DWdk0oSdaDXbxYwHT_4houhfT0XDw4TPRy5rYb3R09f6MagfhNKGcbWIGtFCHQk3AHl0CBHw2tn1CPEcYc6XQN/s1600-h/Picture+19.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258131015761399330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1tLS7-4jHSeePbE3OohMqW072-FXdK2IWzjhlMxStLCtUAmoEKYYS3DWdk0oSdaDXbxYwHT_4houhfT0XDw4TPRy5rYb3R09f6MagfhNKGcbWIGtFCHQk3AHl0CBHw2tn1CPEcYc6XQN/s400/Picture+19.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>Your converted image appears at the bottom of the page. Don't forget to right-click and save your new image!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIwyvpBqSWZsMuMU2ZnGQtnbPOJmYzxI4jmLPogPmVvFAdIzmmT_JQ-kwdL6AsWTaXaEo5Ca1XLUl6JJZDithsizuwRP9Kz-fRu3ke1wbGQeZLcngdmS1HLvTDJABgPg1w3L3WC8lTmQ3/s1600-h/claire+with+stroller.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258130714806890754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIwyvpBqSWZsMuMU2ZnGQtnbPOJmYzxI4jmLPogPmVvFAdIzmmT_JQ-kwdL6AsWTaXaEo5Ca1XLUl6JJZDithsizuwRP9Kz-fRu3ke1wbGQeZLcngdmS1HLvTDJABgPg1w3L3WC8lTmQ3/s400/claire+with+stroller.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:85%;">My daughter Claire at a park near our house last week.</span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMxARTUGjuB9La_egYoj3oWjDQ9aa6XRzJrbkYOuJ_rba1taNTCVXKGISsju01eZM388UUWXjEa618dKFZi-UR2JJxFImWSWYRhYkipU9HVOITKVxz2XCaAdedjTAVL6LFgaLgeyrjm2N/s1600-h/claire+with+stroller+converted.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258130725878122162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMxARTUGjuB9La_egYoj3oWjDQ9aa6XRzJrbkYOuJ_rba1taNTCVXKGISsju01eZM388UUWXjEa618dKFZi-UR2JJxFImWSWYRhYkipU9HVOITKVxz2XCaAdedjTAVL6LFgaLgeyrjm2N/s400/claire+with+stroller+converted.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /></div>What a great way to use all your travel photos! Convert them all and print out onto heavy photo paper. Instant vintage post cards! For free! And you're not wasting 80 hours in Photoshop.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSPHbYq0GqQALB-fqrRc3JpsQSyXHvD9UzVNZZLUPteXdZuwcZ4F2H8qIlbjAlDfXjnb_5buqGZsdw9tyA4bKRnd7-n5nRP-6sFVC-x6BQXqItDbp164Oco7GH-nZ21fPUzmdrtdnszgB/s1600-h/roma.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258130740934329298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSPHbYq0GqQALB-fqrRc3JpsQSyXHvD9UzVNZZLUPteXdZuwcZ4F2H8qIlbjAlDfXjnb_5buqGZsdw9tyA4bKRnd7-n5nRP-6sFVC-x6BQXqItDbp164Oco7GH-nZ21fPUzmdrtdnszgB/s400/roma.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:85%;">A photo from our trip to Rome this summer.</span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4x9tDQl6V2EUqSlZuXCUWnr5OAtIAKjyLqnqTjjLMLZyY8xeBHGO4S9caoGZ6DBnWX0pQzw7FuY5LbdbzYOm76ak6KcIuqrHzj5lMvf86h-QYaXHfTYTBF4IXvu6c5uKNfWgbsKKeZ5k/s1600-h/roma+converted.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258130744318852274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4x9tDQl6V2EUqSlZuXCUWnr5OAtIAKjyLqnqTjjLMLZyY8xeBHGO4S9caoGZ6DBnWX0pQzw7FuY5LbdbzYOm76ak6KcIuqrHzj5lMvf86h-QYaXHfTYTBF4IXvu6c5uKNfWgbsKKeZ5k/s400/roma+converted.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />You could add a few of these new-now-old images to a collection and make an art wall. I love these groupings in almost any room, but especially a foyer or stairwell.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcYCUcYJ9ylvyQ382_1ISW7zrDPqBCE7bj5RRbtO0sVRCzopaId47BUFkomipXxtuNAMZNY5XGkoT2YDBmwJUPWoSKMDiAHhmtpn_fN7BB2puXrrvKEZmyf7eOL_tl-hO8sc_3IoV_DAt6/s1600-h/miles+redd+elle+decor.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258139359950487890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcYCUcYJ9ylvyQ382_1ISW7zrDPqBCE7bj5RRbtO0sVRCzopaId47BUFkomipXxtuNAMZNY5XGkoT2YDBmwJUPWoSKMDiAHhmtpn_fN7BB2puXrrvKEZmyf7eOL_tl-hO8sc_3IoV_DAt6/s400/miles+redd+elle+decor.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvStnTIzPoGY4uPc2WC6YALUT_D-nMKlrxjRyP6iXKFcmiORu1JI6k7_FTs2wOuPWB4Xw74qUYj7ZVbQVy6qtbHA0XNlnVCv9vppJcHmXvw3aW_65MGmYRxItPvnQ3MJqWcT7GJH5eYk6/s1600-h/sixx5.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258139340487983490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvStnTIzPoGY4uPc2WC6YALUT_D-nMKlrxjRyP6iXKFcmiORu1JI6k7_FTs2wOuPWB4Xw74qUYj7ZVbQVy6qtbHA0XNlnVCv9vppJcHmXvw3aW_65MGmYRxItPvnQ3MJqWcT7GJH5eYk6/s400/sixx5.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfB9FLsaWOZQkWxt_cDFcfCgKTMsdIJ3WI7BvDhi7F_WgXyrioiIQUp2fzWwUrHD9Zo1QtqNp8LV3gRJRVRnVxZeiUQ48IAXqLY_Ltd0HLEqK_j_L1b4iaPBKegXsBhxwc57_nLQYAu83o/s1600-h/Picture+49.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258138994603325122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfB9FLsaWOZQkWxt_cDFcfCgKTMsdIJ3WI7BvDhi7F_WgXyrioiIQUp2fzWwUrHD9Zo1QtqNp8LV3gRJRVRnVxZeiUQ48IAXqLY_Ltd0HLEqK_j_L1b4iaPBKegXsBhxwc57_nLQYAu83o/s400/Picture+49.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTR03ekp7E5V4Uf5dh4id5MlvOt1iVJ7GiK4iK4y8URLqsr7b62gTXH5iVaz-ZIY4QNn1i22KueYbqzRsO1z5bAGD5B11p36ZbzvimkhRK5t8Z6h2psJQPLGLFJqneonf63NlkYdkb8hW/s1600-h/Picture+28.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258138979882865362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTR03ekp7E5V4Uf5dh4id5MlvOt1iVJ7GiK4iK4y8URLqsr7b62gTXH5iVaz-ZIY4QNn1i22KueYbqzRsO1z5bAGD5B11p36ZbzvimkhRK5t8Z6h2psJQPLGLFJqneonf63NlkYdkb8hW/s400/Picture+28.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4aM5IT5JTqHKjImNtutG0PAG000v6750EXKCAyTKmnmWtHzlXsTsahd5gDxVi7Xo_eOPYTMxneHkCFZ4U3KHcwWpemjZdUy4ipl9hAliyAjMwY9BfogaPfXxBPi8-oZq-IpR3kaP6d73/s1600-h/FamilyHeritagewall.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258139007240265522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4aM5IT5JTqHKjImNtutG0PAG000v6750EXKCAyTKmnmWtHzlXsTsahd5gDxVi7Xo_eOPYTMxneHkCFZ4U3KHcwWpemjZdUy4ipl9hAliyAjMwY9BfogaPfXxBPi8-oZq-IpR3kaP6d73/s400/FamilyHeritagewall.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>I think it would be cool to do a series of nine frames arranged in a square over a sofa or a console table in the entry. Keep it a cheap project and use IKEA's ribba frames in all the same size and style for a statement look. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdRMivSBnVVbchyvXd2-BHcaxsp90EZ2ntbd_m4MQSntGxsluqelyweWuIsvkKooDJXbG7vKzqPyYhhgV4ONNrMW_1Z_p4dKd89EXgotACRU0jSOVcTcrQf8UuHyGHjWkU9yJZF8hydYU/s1600-h/Picture+18.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258130752517760722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdRMivSBnVVbchyvXd2-BHcaxsp90EZ2ntbd_m4MQSntGxsluqelyweWuIsvkKooDJXbG7vKzqPyYhhgV4ONNrMW_1Z_p4dKd89EXgotACRU0jSOVcTcrQf8UuHyGHjWkU9yJZF8hydYU/s400/Picture+18.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>I think I would get <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80101038">this one</a> that's in a natural, unstained finish and then paint the frames a cool, bright color, like mustard yellow or magenta, for a real pop against all the black and white photos. All of my examples below have much more subtly finished frames, but you get the picture.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtIr-POgwel-jIVSVqTBwIE5Y3uXlYvA2xxi3-xak7mtcI-04altvkNo7YCmshGygPHl4fI2H9hi8CqU-o7GNcrt8RO-FaKcWcCwLh9VB3fOruDJ6tH2ReCT3fOV4gP_OBJL7A6FrH3_09/s1600-h/gasl_best_framing_14.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258138953234326514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtIr-POgwel-jIVSVqTBwIE5Y3uXlYvA2xxi3-xak7mtcI-04altvkNo7YCmshGygPHl4fI2H9hi8CqU-o7GNcrt8RO-FaKcWcCwLh9VB3fOruDJ6tH2ReCT3fOV4gP_OBJL7A6FrH3_09/s400/gasl_best_framing_14.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrv66Elp9avjWZUXWDPJObQG7J7KWtaNZonUunHp5FjEJPNfyWmJlSDN_yla3tEpdK2ARtCCxyQT8koKZM1ZAcp5Q4U9W5AmOHHtD9UDwCf_7T39EbkFy6LFt23etsDkg8NFFzllvcA7Ez/s1600-h/Picture+68.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258139002327301954" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrv66Elp9avjWZUXWDPJObQG7J7KWtaNZonUunHp5FjEJPNfyWmJlSDN_yla3tEpdK2ARtCCxyQT8koKZM1ZAcp5Q4U9W5AmOHHtD9UDwCf_7T39EbkFy6LFt23etsDkg8NFFzllvcA7Ez/s400/Picture+68.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyXVYpfktqJMrh64ea3an1tI-M72Y2c_LHW07Yp5blv897v9OaJtO2ZSLKSbTn_PYH9k2WHQcPo2RRqO8pCG_o52_m76uZ4LjdqkHe4yuDykQoZ_0YW3V9ppJV5vILSgeo06VHAYIkr4rL/s1600-h/Picture+84.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258139332777611666" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyXVYpfktqJMrh64ea3an1tI-M72Y2c_LHW07Yp5blv897v9OaJtO2ZSLKSbTn_PYH9k2WHQcPo2RRqO8pCG_o52_m76uZ4LjdqkHe4yuDykQoZ_0YW3V9ppJV5vILSgeo06VHAYIkr4rL/s400/Picture+84.png" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkoxwsBGj7NNUiJ_cQSPnZOhMAU_Rr9Aw1lAeFOEnfMrWwl2bxMf_cAHZqVxbFpG6e6hyzuNqvqSzIkmGDBMg4MTp0rLxbHLwBC7l_xBiS65Z14HBLeKny2FPdCIZLnSgPBBAoOEtVlxJT/s1600-h/ashleywhittaker1.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258139349567870978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkoxwsBGj7NNUiJ_cQSPnZOhMAU_Rr9Aw1lAeFOEnfMrWwl2bxMf_cAHZqVxbFpG6e6hyzuNqvqSzIkmGDBMg4MTp0rLxbHLwBC7l_xBiS65Z14HBLeKny2FPdCIZLnSgPBBAoOEtVlxJT/s400/ashleywhittaker1.jpeg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichT6gx-ehJulFqRSXL-KxmNuOB2kErZMvcX1wK42k5hLV8mwkfHK_WOaMQHL0vuRNda_Km4sbER3kWVsw2EBxBzDPsjRH76V1p-l12kpfWW4Nb-sc8vzEOzshEwqd-ZdEHOO91SBLMhlz/s1600-h/Square+de+Roule+5.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258139365832543154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichT6gx-ehJulFqRSXL-KxmNuOB2kErZMvcX1wK42k5hLV8mwkfHK_WOaMQHL0vuRNda_Km4sbER3kWVsw2EBxBzDPsjRH76V1p-l12kpfWW4Nb-sc8vzEOzshEwqd-ZdEHOO91SBLMhlz/s400/Square+de+Roule+5.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>

Make Your Own "Vintage" Photos

I can't remember where I learned about this website that converts your photos into vintage-looking images, but thanks to whoever it was...

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Fabric Store Closing

Attention all you Boston locals!!!<br /><br />Probably my favorite place to buy fabric in Bean Town, the Fabric Place, is closing it's doors for good this fall. {Very} sad for them, but it's {short term} good news for us.<br /><br />I scored some incredible designer fabrics (two F. Schumacher linens and a great Paul Kaufmann floral) that normally retail for more than $100 a yard for less than $6 a yard. I have some great upholstery projects to share with you guys soon, so all this cheap fabric came at a good time!<br /><br />The nice people at the store in Woburn said they would probably be there through the middle of November. Hurry though, because all the good stuff is going FAST!!

Fabric Store Closing

Attention all you Boston locals!!! Probably my favorite place to buy fabric in Bean Town, the Fabric Place, is closing it's doors for go...

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