Archive for the ‘do it yourself’ Category

what’s old is new
December 12, 2012

Ever since I can remember my mom has gone all out every Christmas. From multiple trees, to wreaths on every window, to prize-winning front-door decor.  As we have gotten older she has changed things up, and some amazing items have been shared between my sister and I. This year, a perfect little reindeer came my way. The silhouette of this guy is amazing! However, I knew he needed a nice new coat of spray paint, and nothing screams festive like a bold metallic gold. I love the finished product so much, this little guy just may stay out all year.

2012-12-10_22-57-26

2012-12-10_23-03-08

2012-12-10_23-09-07

2012-12-10_23-08-48

give the gift of DIY
December 6, 2012

I have forever been a fan of delicate pieces. During the week I keep my jewelry simple and light. This necklace is one of my favorites that I have made and has made great gifts for me in the past. Want to make you own presents this year? Try making this simple necklace.

Supplies: 

beads, chain, hook, jewelry wire, wire cutters, needle nose pliers

Steps:

1. Use wire cutters to cut your chain to desired length

2. String beads to jewelry wire {make sure the wire is slightly flexible}

3. Using needle nose pliers, wrap the ends of the beaded jewelry wire around both open ends of your chain, in order to secure

4. Use wire cutters to cut the chain, in order to attach closure hook, to what will be the backside of the necklace

{all photos my own}

 

small spaces for the holidays
November 26, 2012

I love my apartment, the location, the layout, the size {well perfect for one person}. But, unfortunately my apartment is nowhere near large enough for a full size christmas tree. This year I am focusing on decorating the mantel and have purchased several live wreaths to bring in that Christmas tree smell {p.s. live wreaths at Home Depot are around $5}. I have a large mirror on my mantel that isn’t going anywhere, and I love the idea of hanging a wreath on top of it. Here are a few wreath and mirror combinations I am admiring.

 

festive fringe
November 14, 2012

supplies:
tissue paper {make sure to include a metallic}, string, cutting mat, scissors, glue gun
 
directions: 
1. stack all the tissue, one color at a time, on top of each other and begin to cut strips, mine were about a 1/2 inch wide
2. take each row of cut tissue and hang evenly over a chopstick
3. take the center of the tissue {at the top of the chopstick} and begin to twist over your string, be sure to not tear the tissue paper
4. use a drop of hot glue to ensure your twist are secure on the string
 

just lean it
October 23, 2012

No need to use a hammer and nail, or even a stand. Lean those works of art and lovely frames for a dimensional look. A simple way to layer-on new pieces.

golden feather
October 17, 2012

I came across these very neutral feathers at Target and couldn’t resist {they were $6}. Took them home and with a little spray paint {champagne mist} I have a nice new addition to my bookshelf. They are sold out online, but this feather tray would be super cute to paint as well!

friday finds {fall favorites}
October 12, 2012

I’ve shared the looks I am loving for fall {here, here, here, here and here} and now to share a few of my favorite fall treats. Nothing better than cooking with pumpkin this time of year.

wall of frames
September 17, 2012

I finally conquered the frame wall, a project that has forever intimidated me, and I can’t lie, I am quite happy with the way it turned out! A nice mix of art and memories and even space to add a few more!

A few things I learned along the way:

  • use the floor to layout all your frames first
  • start with a large frame right in the middle and work outwards, it worked best for me
  • start with several matching frames and add in a few with texture {all frames shown from Target}
  • use varying mat sizes to enhance the depth
  • having a second set of eyes really helps {thanks Mom}
  • hang the frames empty then work in the art and photos
  • use a mix of photos and art, those sunset photos you thought you would never frame, would look great!

 

 

*fashion illustrations by Jessica Durrant 

well wrapped….
August 27, 2012

I never have gift wrap on hand and I always take the last-minute route of buying a gift bag and a few pieces of tissue paper. Recently on a trip to the Dollar Store I came across plain brown paper, for that’s right, you guessed it, a $1! I purchased the paper with no intention of doing anything with it. Until one day I decided to get out the paint and brushes and create a little chevron and polka-dot pattern. Nothing better than handmade wrapping paper! Also, this would be perfect paper for a photo backdrop for your next party!

P.S. There a far more pros about living in Southern Louisiana then cons, however one of the cons we have to deal with is hurricanes. Activity on lucky girl finds this week may be a little less than usual, however if I still have power and internet I will keep on posting!

painted sticks
July 26, 2012

Walking through Anthropologie for me, is instant inspiration overload. Things like; I want to make that, I have got to try that on, what can I use that for constantly swirl throughout my mind. Such a creative retail space, with ideas for all aspects of life. On my most recent trip I came across this great installation, that I want to try someday. Simple paint sticks, with a little color, hung in such a beautiful way! One day, I will find a use for this {maybe a photo backdrop?}. Until then, a little inspiration for you!

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 119 other followers