Tips for the Decorator

I wish this decorating guide had been available last year when I was putting the finishes touches on my new home. I was unsure of the appropriate curtain length, how to combine different printed fabrics in a coherent way and what size rugs work best. This "Guide for the Decorator" by Anthropologie answers many questions that a novice decorator may have. This is definitely one to bookmark for future reference.

(all images via Anthropologie)

Giveaway Winner & DIY Skeleton Tee (via Planet Blue)

Many thanks to everyone who entered the Shabby Apple Dress Giveaway! CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNER - KRYSTAL! (I will send you an email shortly).

I recently came across the Planet Blue blog and saw a tutorial on how to make this cute skeleton tee. Isn't it fantastic!

The tools you will need:

~ The perfect t-shirt or tank top (with minimal embellishments)
~ Fabric razor blade
~ Measuring tape
~ A hard surface, such as a wood cutting board or ironing board
~ A vision of how you would like your own unique shirt to like

You can find step-by-step instructions at the Planet Blue Blog. Happy Friday!

(images via Planet Blue Blog)

Modern Living Room Updates

~ House to Home's guide to 10 easy and inexpensive ways to update your living room ~
Further instructions are available at House to Home


update inexpensive photo frames with fresh paint
revamp a window by applying window film



accent your chimney with some fun tiles
embellish an old mirror



customize a cushion cover with elaborate trim
hand paint a lampshade



bedazzle wallpaper with rhinestones
create your own unique memo board with self adhesive tiles



add your own decorative door border
use an unexpected space as a gallery

(images via House to Home)

DIY Peacock Feather Wreath

Thank you Modern Chic Home for sharing this HGTV DIY Peacock Feather Wreath on your fan page this morning. I absolutely love this! And on a side note, I decided this Christmas to use my own color scheme when it comes to gift wrapping. Instead of the traditional red & green combination, I am using dark red & eggplant purple.

(image source)

Pom Decor

I am definitely decorating with poms at my next party. Poms are so pretty to look at and the uses are limitless - as party decor, a mobile, garland, napkin ring or as a flower arrangement. Poms are reusable, affordable and can even be a fun DIY project. Check out this pom tutorial to make your own poms.

Party Pom Set

Paper Pom Chandelier

Pom Napkin Ring

Pom Mobile

Mini Pom Tissue Flowers

Pom Drink Straws

Pom Peonies

Down and Out Chic's DIY Jewelry Display

One of my favorite bloggers, Christina of Down and Out Chic, shares my love of creating jewelry. Her style is very different than mine - vintage, romantic, delicate, pretty. She sells her beautiful jewelry on the Etsy shop. In preparation of an upcoming craft show, Christina is making her own jewelry displays. You can see the amazing transformation of an old suitcase into a beautiful display on her blog. Christina is making other displays as well, which I can't wait to see. Isn't this display so clever?! (all images via Down and Out Chic).

DIY: iPod Wristband Holster

Using an old belt, leather pot handle covers and a sewing machine, I made a simple yet useful iPod case that I can use while running or riding my bike.

Jason Randall