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June 12, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner

Transform Typical Cookware Into Unique Lighting

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Let’s face it: there’s a lot of cookware in the house that is purely just taking up space. And unless a cookware collection is in a gourmet restaurant, chances are multiples are not necessary. One way to clear the clutter without adding to the garbage is by turning a simple kitchen colander into a beautiful pendant lamp. And thanks to Handimania, there’s now a step by step tutorial to achieve this unique colander lamp lighting.

Gather these supplies:

  • Drill
  • Cable with cap and top
  • Plastic clump
  • Screwdriver
  • Screw hook
  • Sharp knife
  • Light bulb

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Start by drilling a hole in the bottom middle of the colander, preferably widening an existing hole. Next close the cup of the cable tightly and fit it through the widened colander hole created.

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The trickiest part of this project is figuring out the wiring. Make sure to securely screw the hook into the ceiling and attach the wires from the lamp to the ceiling.

For an even more funky and adventurous look, hang multiple of these lights in the center of a room in many colors. Once in place, this lamp is ready to light up not just the room, but the style of an entire home.

 

June 10, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner

The Best Dresser To Mudroom Bench Transformation Ever!

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Dressers can be bulky and in this closet organization age, they’re pretty unnecessary. But don’t ditch the dresser in the alleyway wasteland! Instead, repurpose any dresser into a sleek, sophisticated mudroom bench for every household need following The Weekend Country Girl’s comprehensive guide. 

Here’s what’s needed:

  • Old Dresser
  • Plywood slabs
  • 2X4’s
  • Plywood box
  • Beadboard paneling
  • Paint
  • Cushion

 

100_05753Begin by taking apart the dresser. Remove all of the drawers, leaving only the two remaining bottom drawers. Attach a plywood top to create a surface for the bench. This structure will not only serve as seating, but storage for shoes and other household items.

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To create the top space for hanging jackets and stashing papers, reuse the remaining solid drawer fronts. Once adhered at the top, make sure to attach breadboard paneling for aesthetics and several 2X4’s and a plywood box for support. For an even more glamorous look, add a mirror to the center and add 2X4’s around it for support.

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Finally, to connect the pieces, just insert some board-and-batten bead board to the wall for a fluid illusion. Then comes the fun part: paint it, add drawer knobs and install hooks. Make them whatever is consistent with the style of the home.

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When all is said and done, this project is not only really simple, but extremely environmentally and style friendly.

 

June 1, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner

Top 3 Ways To Summer-ify Curb Appeal

Summer is finally here! And with that, many more people will be outside, looking at exterior of homes. To ensure a house is ready for gawking, check out DIY Ready’s tips on how to improve curb appeal on a budget:

1. Make A Concrete Walkway Shine

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Bring a driveway or concrete walkway back to life by acid washing the surface and watch the summer sun bounce off this improvement.

2. Camouflage Bulky Outdoor Appliances

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Hide the clunky electric boxes and pipes by simply painting the appliances the same color as a home’s siding and feel free to let guests walk around the perimeter of the home.

3. Splash Some Color On A Front Door

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What an easy fix! Slap a primary color on a front door for an easy solution for dull winter curb appeal.

Now have at it & make summer beautiful!

May 27, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner

Upcycle Any Thrift Store Find For Home Decor

Thrift store shopping isn’t just for vintage outfits anymore. With a few bucks and some creative know-how, simple thrift store purchases can completely revitalize a room. Here are some highlights from Buzzfeed’s article about upcycling common thrift store finds:

1. Make A Suitcase Nightstand

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This one is the easiest thrift store home decor of all! Buy anywhere from 3 to 5 suitcases and stack them from largest to smallest next to a bed and turn a nightstand into a statement piece.

2. Line Drawers With Fabric

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For stylish storage, apply thrift store tablecloth or curtain fabric for a pop of color and extra protection for all clothing.

3. Wrap Vases With Rope

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Want a more nautical or rustic look? Use adhesive and wrap rope around thrift store vases to achieve those styles.