Trends: White Lace

I’ve been in love with white lace for some time now – but it’s recently that I’ve noticed it cropping up in trends from housewares to mainstream fashion. The trick with white lace is to use it in one of two ways – as a subtle accent or all out for a voluminous texture. The remaining elements, from outfits to decorating, need to be simple to make the look work. And when in doubt – it’s always easiest to go vintage when pairing this elegant fabric with everyday items. Give it a try and you’re sure to be happy with the results!

diy doily lamps; white lace tattoo; bohemian white curtains; pierogi picnic tank top; diy lace suitcase; white lace and rings; lace shorts

DIY: Frame Facelift

If it hasn’t become obvious in photos of my home and show booths – I have a love of mis-matched wooden frames. They are so versatile and can be used for so many things beyond showing off family pics.

My latest endeavor, with a set that I scooped up at Salvation Army, was to use them for an inspiration board for my studio. I wanted something above my desk that was pseudo shabby chic but still functional.
So I dismantled the frames, coated them with white gesso (that’s what happens when you share a studio with your painter/husband!) and then filled them with glass, cork, lace or both! Now I have plenty of space to pin fabric, photos and drawings while keeping tabs on orders and ‘to-dos.’

So next time you’re at a flea market or thrift store – look beyond the gaudy prints in those frames – and transform them into something chic and utilitarian instead!

Making the Most of Space

I’m still knee deep in clutter in the new apartment as we attempt to decorate and organize all at once. That’s why when I saw this adorable entryway photo on Apartment Therapy I had to stop and share. What a great way to take a flat space and make it utilitarian, yet stylish. Setting it up in our place will be a great weekend project and rather than using typical chalkboard paint (toxicity anyone?) I’ll create my own with some zero VOC paint via this tutorial.

Have you done something fun with your mud room? Have any ideas for organizing purses, shoes and coats? Please share them below.

DIY: Stylish Nesting

It’s officially 2 weeks until the big move and I can’t stop fascinating about our new digs. I am ‘pinning’ away on Pinterest, collecting ideas and inspirations on how to nest in my new abode. The site is chalked full of incredible DIY projects and photos of furniture that can be easily replicated using salvaged materials. Below is a look at all of my recent discoveries, which I plan on incorporating into the design of our new apartment. Continue reading

Inspiration: Suitcase Dresser

One of my goals this month is to re-organize my studio to make fabrics easier to find and to ‘unclog’ the creative block messiness encourages.

So I’ve been hunting for ways to do so while keeping things green and aesthetically inspiring. That’s why I fell in love when I found this suitcase dresser! Easy enough to make on your own – this idea take vintage luggage and transforms it into a utilitarian designer’s dream! I don’t have the space to make something like this now – but I am keeping it in mind should I ever decide to do away with my current dresser.

DIY: Love Patch

I don’t know what it is – my perpetually dry skin, humidity-free heat, or just the dullness of winter – but my elbows have become sand paper tough and the results are showing on my sweaters. I am rubbing holes into sleeves every which way I turn!

Rather than scrap my favorite cardigans, I’ve begun to bust out the old fashioned elbow patch, but with a modern twist. Using vintage lace fabric scraps, some embroidery thread, and elbow grease (no put intended here!), I stitched my way to some swanky tear-proof sleeves that are now turning heads.

In just 15 minutes you too can add a bit of whimsy to otherwise unsightly holes. Follow the pictorial directions below for a fabulous way to mend your most beloved knitwear and sweaters to get them through the season. Continue reading