HOW CAN I FIND AFFORDABLE VINTAGE DECORATIONS?

 

Revamping your home with vintage style enables you to step back in time and revel in the charm of bygone eras. From mid-century modern to rustic farmhouse, vintage decor adds warmth, character, and a captivating story to your living space. But how can you achieve that perfect old-world look without breaking the bank? In this blog post, we will share ten practical strategies for achieving your vintage decorating dreams while staying within your budget.

EMBRACE ANTIQUE FURNITURE

Antique furniture serves as the foundation of vintage decor. Look items featuring detailed carvings, distinctive shapes, and warm wood hues. Explore local flea markets or antique stores for hidden treasures. Additionally, consider online platforms such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, where you can frequently discover excellent bargains on pre-owned furniture.

INCORPORATE VINTAGE TEXTILES

Vintage textiles, including lace doilies, embroidered tablecloths, and patchwork quilts, can bring both texture and a sense of history to your home. These beautiful pieces can be utilized as throws, wall hangings, or distinctive table settings. Explore thrift stores or estate sales for affordable treasures. Additionally, consider repurposing old fabric into cushion covers or curtains for a creative touch.

USE PATTERNED WALLPAPER

Patterned wallpaper can transform a room, creating a nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of earlier eras. When selecting a design, consider patterns that reflect the style you wish to evoke; for instance, floral motifs work beautifully for a Victorian look, while geometric shapes can infuse a space with 1970s charm. For an easy and cost-effective solution, peel-and-stick wallpaper is an excellent choice, allowing for quick installation without the need for professional help, thus saving you both time and money.

MIX AND MATCH DECOR STYLES

Don't feel confined to a single era when it comes to your decor; mixing different vintage styles can create a unique and personalized look that truly reflects your taste. For example, consider combining elements from various decades, such as a charming 1950s armchair paired with a stylish 1920s lamp. This eclectic approach not only adds character to your space but also tells a story through your furnishings. A great way to discover these distinctive pieces is by visiting garage sales, where you can often find a treasure trove of eclectic items at a fraction of their original cost. Embrace the thrill of the hunt and let your creativity shine!

ADD VINTAGE LIGHTING FIXTURES

Lighting can dramatically change the ambiance of a room, setting the mood and enhancing the overall aesthetic. Vintage chandeliers, sconces, or lamps can illuminate your space with unique character and charm. For an authentic feel, consider fixtures made from materials like brass or wrought iron, as they add a timeless quality to your decor. Additionally, a budget-friendly shortcut is to restore old lamps by replacing the wiring, a task easily accomplished with DIY kits available at most hardware stores. This not only revives the lamp's function but also preserves its vintage appeal.

DISPLAY COLLECTIBLE ITEMS

Displaying collections of vintage items, such as porcelain figurines or old books, can add a unique charm and character to your space. To create a cohesive display, group similar items together on a mantel or bookshelf, allowing each piece to complement the others while enhancing the overall aesthetic. Consider swapping collections with friends or family; this not only refreshes your decor but also creates a sense of community and shared appreciation for vintage treasures, all without spending a dime.

CHOOSE RETRO COLOR SCHEMES

Colors play a significant role in vintage decor, evoking a sense of nostalgia and charm. Think of muted pastels, warm earth tones, or classic black-and-white schemes that can transform a space. To ensure the perfect combination, it’s wise to use color swatches to test how different hues interact before committing to painting walls or purchasing textiles. For a budget-friendly way to incorporate retro vibes, consider painting smaller items like picture frames or plant pots in vintage-inspired colors, adding an inexpensive pop of character to your decor.

INCORPORATE NATURAL ELEMENTS

Bringing the outdoors in can create a refreshing and serene atmosphere in your home. To achieve this look, consider incorporating vintage-inspired natural elements like potted plants, wooden furniture, and stoneware into your decor. Terracotta pots and wicker baskets serve as excellent choices to enhance the organic vibe, providing texture and warmth to your space. You can take advantage of nature walks by foraging for driftwood or stones, which can be used as unique decor accents. These thoughtful touches not only celebrate nature but also give your home a personalized and rustic charm. 

REPURPOSE OLD ITEMS

Upcycling is an innovative and sustainable approach to achieving vintage decor that breathes new life into old items. For instance, you can transform old suitcases into unique tables or repurpose mason jars into charming light fixtures, adding a touch of creativity to your space. Before discarding any item, consider its potential for repurposing in a fun and functional way. To make the process easier, follow DIY tutorials available online that guide you through simple repurposing projects, often requiring minimal tools and expertise. This not only enhances your home with personalized decor but also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.

FOCUS ON CRAFTSMANSHIP

Vintage pieces often boast meticulous craftsmanship, making them a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate quality. When searching for these items, prioritize quality over quantity; a single well-made piece can stand out more than several lesser-quality items. One effective tip is to carefully examine the construction and materials used in furniture, as this will help ensure both durability and authenticity. A great way to finding well-crafted vintage pieces at more affordable prices is to attend local auctions, where you can uncover hidden gems that might not be available in retail stores.

CONCLUSION

Designing a vintage-inspired home is not solely focused on aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that tells a story and showcases your personality. By utilizing these strategies, you can attain a classic appearance that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. As you begin decorating reflect on these questions: What stories do I wish my home to convey? How can I harmonize the old with the new to craft a space that is distinctly my own? Celebrate the past and allow your home to serve as a canvas for your creativity and uniqueness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADD A PERSONAL TOUCH TO YOUR CANDLES

 

TRANSFORM PLAIN CANDLES INTO WORKS OF ART WITH THESE PAINTING TECHNIQUE 

Are you tired of plain and uninspiring candles?  Get ready to add pizzazz to your home decor and transform your basic candles into stunning works of art with these simple painting techniques! In this article, I'll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating unique and beautiful candles that you'll be proud to display. From gathering your supplies to adding finishing touches, you'll learn everything you need to know to turn your plain candles into eye-catching focal points in your home. Get ready to unleash your creativity!

GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES

Before diving into the painting process, it's important to gather all the supplies you'll need. Here's a list of what you'll need:
 

• Plain candles
• Paint brushes (various sizes)
• Acrylic paints
• Paint palette or disposable plate
• Water cup for cleaning brushes
• Paper towels or cloth for wiping excess paint
• Pencil or marker (optional)
• Templates or stencils (optional)
• Painter's tape (optional)

 

With these supplies on hand, you'll be ready to start creating your own unique candle designs.

CHOOSE YOUR DESIGN

When it comes to painting candles, the possibilities for design are virtually endless. Before you begin, take some time to think about what kind of design you want to create. Will it be a simple geometric pattern or a more intricate floral design? Will you use bright and bold colors or a more muted palette? By considering these questions, you can start to narrow down your options and really hone in on the design you want to create.

One great way to get design inspiration is to look online for images of painted candles. Pinterest and Instagram are both great resources for finding inspiration and ideas. You might also consider looking at art or design books for inspiration. Pay attention to color schemes, patterns, and textures that catch your eye, and think about how you might incorporate them into your own designs.

Another tip for choosing your design is to think about the occasion or purpose for the candle. If you're creating a candle as a gift, consider using the recipient's favorite colors or incorporating a meaningful symbol or message into the design. If you're painting a candle for your own use, think about what mood or feeling you want to create. Do you want something calming and soothing or bright and energizing? 

PREPARE YOUR CANDLE

To ensure that your painted candle comes out looking its best, it's important to properly prepare the surface beforehand. Start by wiping down the candle with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Next, consider using a piece of sandpaper or an emery board to lightly rough up the surface of the candle. This will give the paint something to adhere to and can help prevent the design from chipping or flaking off over time.

If you plan to use any stencils or stickers, be sure to carefully place them on the candle before painting. You may also want to cover any areas of the candle that you don't want to paint, such as the wick or the bottom of the candle, with masking tape or painter's tape.

By taking the time to properly prepare your candle, you'll be setting yourself up for success when it comes time to paint. So gather your supplies, choose your design, and get ready to transform your plain candles into beautiful works of art. 

PAINT YOUR CANDLE

Once you have your design in mind, it's time to paint your candle. Using a paintbrush or sponge, carefully apply the paint to your candle. Be sure to use thin, even layers to avoid any drips or clumps.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different painting techniques such as splattering or blending colors together. Remember, this is your chance to get creative and make your candle unique.

Once you've finished painting, allow your candle to dry completely before removing any stencils or stickers. You may also want to touch up any areas that need it with a small brush.

Now that your candle is painted and ready to go, it's time to add some finishing touches to really make it stand out. But first, make sure to clean up your workspace and put away any leftover supplies.

 ADD FINISHING TOUCHES

Now that your candle has been transformed into a unique and personalized work of art, it's time to give it some finishing touches. One option is to add a layer of clear glaze or varnish to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. This will also give your candle a more professional look and make it last longer.

Another option is to add some decorative elements, such as a ribbon or a charm, to the candle. This will not only make it look more visually appealing but also create a personalized touch. You can experiment with different materials and colors to find the perfect combination that suits your taste.

If you want to elevate your candle even further, consider placing it in a decorative holder or adding some complementary accessories, such as a small vase of flowers or a coordinating candlestick. This will enhance the overall aesthetic of your candle and make it stand out even more.

 

With these simple finishing touches, your painted candle will not only be a beautiful decorative piece but also a reflection of your own personal style and creativity.

In conclusion, painting plain candles is an easy way to add a personal touch to your home décor. By following these five simple steps, you can create unique and stunning candles that will impress your guests and elevate your space. Don't settle for boring candles any longer! Let your creativity shine and transform your living space with these painting techniques.

 

 

 

 

BEST THINGS TO BUY AT THE DOLLAR TREE

I wanted to update a previous post that I wrote when I first started writing this blog.  In the article I wrote on the best things to buy at the dollar tree for a dollar. Since then the dollar tree has gone up to $1.25.  I find myself thinking is the dollar tree still worth shopping at and what are the best things to buy at the dollar tree.

WHY IS THE DOLLAR TREE SO CHEAP?

If the dollar store is worth even looking at I realized I needed to know why is the dollar store so cheap in the first place.  I got several answers.  The main answers were that they spend little money on advertising and some of the products are private-label products. 

IS THE DOLLAR TREE WORTH IT?

The short answer is yes.  Although just like with any store there are some hits and misses.

WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO BUY AT THE DOLLAR TREE? 

Candles and candle holders

Dollar tree have a great selection of candles and candle holders.  You really can use them without any up-cycling, but They are perfect for an easy DIY.   Here is an easy and simple  DIY products.

Party supplies

If you'll throwing a theme party the dollar tree is where you should be shopping.  Dollar tree has a great selection of decorative items for a party. However, if you'll serving something more than finger food you may want to leave the plates behind. They are not as durable as the ones you can get somewhere else.

Seasonal items

This happens to be my all time favorite thing to get at the dollar store.  Paying a lot for seasonal items and holiday items is something I like to avoid.  I almost always do a craft or two to make these even better.  These are the best of the best things to buy at dollar tree.

Craft products

This may be the most common thing brought at the dollar tree.  The craft products are great for DIY products.

Tableware

The tableware comes in handy if you live with a child that is always breaking your dishes.  The dishes also come in lovely patterns for seasons or the holidays. 

Vases

If you don't buy nothing else the vases at the dollar tree are worth the trip.  You can find  high-end vases and there is always a DIY on-line to up-cycle some of the vases.  The vases at dollar tree can not be beat.  

Vase fillers

These vase fillers are a complete bargain.  I seen them used in several DIY projects but they are great alone in a vase.

Kitchen Decor

They all are so cute and fun! You can’t even go wrong for only $1.25.  The kitchen decor is a great way to spice up your kitchen.

Storage Containers

Shop for containers to organize every room in your house. They even have vacuum seal bags for the items you need to put away for another time in the future.  Dollar tree storage containers are quickly becoming my favorite thing to buy at the dollar tree.

Planters

Planters are great to buy at the dollar tree.  The planters at the dollar tree are durable enough for the task at hand.  If you're going to use these for decorative purposes you should up-cycle the planter. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GALLERY WALL IDEAS FOR HOME DECOR

Creating a gallery wall is like crafting a personal art exhibit right in the comfort of your own home. It's a stunning way to express your style, showcase cherished memories, and breathe new life into your living space. But what exactly are gallery walls, and how can you create one without breaking the bank? In this blog post, we’ll explore five fabulous gallery wall ideas that cater to various tastes and trends. Whether you're a minimalist, a maximalist, or somewhere in between, there's a gallery wall design just for you!

WHAT ARE GALLERY WALLS?

Gallery walls are curated arrangements of artwork, photographs, and other decorative items that transform an empty wall into a vibrant visual story. Often found in living rooms, hallways, or staircases, these collections can range from perfectly symmetrical grids to eclectic, free-form designs. Once a staple in home decor, gallery walls have experienced a dip in popularity. However, with a fresh approach and some creativity, they can still be a fantastic addition to modern interiors.

THE CLASSIC SYMMETRICAL GRID

Design Trend Compatibility: Perfect for modern and Scandinavian-inspired interiors.

If you love order and precision, the classic symmetrical grid is the gallery wall idea for you. This design involves hanging frames in a neat, organized pattern, often forming a square or rectangle. To create this look, choose frames of the same size and color, filled with cohesive artwork or photographs.

GET THE LOOK ON A BUDGET

• Source Affordable Art: Consider printing high-resolution images from free online resources or using your own photos.
• DIY Frames: Purchase inexpensive frames from discount stores or upcycle old ones with a fresh coat of paint.

ECLECTIC MIX AND MATCH

Design Trend Compatibility: Ideal for bohemian and eclectic spaces.

For those who revel in diversity and creativity, an eclectic gallery wall is a dream come true. This method allows you to mix different frame styles, sizes, and colors, along with a variety of artwork and photos. The beauty lies in its apparent randomness, yet a cohesive theme often ties it all together.

GET THE LOOK ON A BUDGET

• Thrifted Treasures: Hunt for unique frames and art pieces at thrift stores or flea markets.
• Create Your Own Art: Frame fabric scraps, create abstract paintings, or display children’s artwork for a personal touch.

MONOCHROME MAGIC

Design Trend Compatibility: Works well with contemporary and industrial designs.

A monochrome gallery wall focuses on a single color palette, creating a harmonious and sophisticated look. By sticking to shades of one color, you can achieve a sleek and modern feel. Black and white is the most popular choice, but feel free to experiment with other color schemes that match your decor.

GET THE LOOK ON A BUDGET

• Use Black-and-White Photos: Print your favorite photos in black and white to create a uniform look.
• Paint Existing Art: Give old canvases a new life by painting over them in shades that match your chosen palette.

THEMATIC STORYTELLING

Design Trend Compatibility: Complements vintage and farmhouse aesthetics.

A thematic gallery wall tells a story through its selection of artwork and objects. Choose a theme that resonates with you—such as travel, nature, or family—and curate pieces that reflect this narrative. Integrate maps, travel photos, or vintage postcards to enhance the theme.

GET THE LOOK ON A BUDGET

• Digital Downloads: Purchase inexpensive digital prints from online marketplaces and print them at home.
• Repurpose Items: Include memorabilia like postcards or family heirlooms to add depth and meaning.

FLOATING SHELVES DISPLAY

Design Trend Compatibility: Suited for transitional and coastal styles.

If you’re looking for a versatile alternative, consider using floating shelves to display your gallery wall. This method offers flexibility, allowing you to rearrange and add pieces easily. Arrange frames and decorative items on shelves without permanently fixing them to the wall.

GET THE LOOK ON A BUDGET

• Build Your Own Shelves: Use simple wood planks and brackets to create custom shelves.
• Rotate Items: Swap out artwork and decor seasonally to keep the display fresh without additional cost.

CONCLUSION: WHICH GALLERY WALL WILL YOU CREATE?

Gallery walls offer a unique opportunity to showcase your personality and creativity. Whether you prefer a structured grid or a free-spirited collage, there’s a gallery wall idea that aligns with your style and budget. Which approach resonates with you the most? Will you opt for the sleek lines of a monochrome display or the dynamic energy of an eclectic mix? Share your thoughts and plans in the comments below! Let's inspire each other to transform our homes into stunning showcases of art and memories.

 

 

 

 

 

CHEAP DECORATING IDEAS FOR LIVING ROOM WALLS

 

I believe that the most beautiful spaces have custom art or at least unique pieces on walls.  Most custom pieces cost a fortune but if you're a creative person with talent browse the internet looking for pieces you can DIY and try. 

 

IDEAS TO DECORATE THOSE BLANK WALLS

PAINT DECALS AND STICKERS

Wall decals and stickers make stylish decorations simple. Most paint decals and stickers are easy to remove and even reusable. This is great for apartment dwellers. Wall decals and stickers are affordable ways to transform a dull wall in minutes. 

STENCILS          

Stencils are making a comeback, thanks to more modern designs. They are a budget-friendly way to dress a wall.  You can stencil an entire room with just one reusable repeat stencil, instead of purchasing rolls of expensive wallpaper or peel-and-stick wallpaper. Stenciling a room is one of the most popular ways to create a signature look, and with the variety of stencil designs available, there has never been more choices.  Wall stencils can be found at most craft stores.

PEEL-AND-STICK WALLPAPER AND TILE

This is a very popular way to add a little pizzazz to a wall. Because of it's removable nature, peel-and-stick wallpaper and tiles are highly recommended for apartment dwellers looking to spruce up their space.  Removable wallpaper is an low-budget way to totally transform your space.  These wallpaper and tiles can be found in any discount store.

GALLERY WALLS

You can make a gallery wall for very little.  There are many ways to create a gallery wall and most show the personality of the personality of owner of the space.  You can add in saying or pictures of your family. You can also get prints off the internet or DIY your own artwork. The biggest expense is the frames and they can be bought in bulk at most discount and even craft stores for a reasonable price.  


RUGS

This is something you may want to consider if you happen to have rug that has little or no wear and tear. Go big or small, just make sure you hang them properly. 

CHEAP BACKSPLASH IDEAS

Not only do backsplashes look pretty, but they can also keep the walls behind the stove from fading. This is reason enough to get a backsplash. With all of the options, there really is no need to go without one.  

Below are some ideas that you may use in determining which Kitchen backsplash is for you.

PEEL-AND-STICK TILES

Peel-and-stick tiles are very popular. A huge advantage of using peel-and-stick tile is the cost. The peel-and-stick tile's popularity also comes from its ease of use and the variety of types that are offered. 

The average Peel-and-stick tiles can last for around three to four years.  The tiles that you get from the dollar store basically last for three months, so I think you may want to get these at another store.

 There are a lot of tutorials on the internet to help you if you choose this option. However, the basics of using peel-and-stick tiles are peeling the back off to reveal the adhesive backing and firmly pressing against the wall.

PEEL-AND-STICK WALLPAPER

Peel-and-Stick wallpaper is a great kitchen backsplash idea. Although regular wallpaper can last almost forever, peel-and-sick wallpaper lasts around three years. Unlike regular wallpaper it is easier to take down and is more renter friendly.  This option has more patterns and prints than the peel-and-stick tiles and peel-and-stick wallpaper doesn't even have to be waterproofed.

TIN

Another inexpensive kitchen backsplash is a tin backsplash. Tin backsplash panels will cost around $10 to $50 each depending on size of the panel (12x12 or 24x24), finish, coating and design. This is a very durable kitchen backsplash that should last the lifetime of the kitchen. 

You're going to need to seal this backsplash. To seal you'll need to apply a bead of clear caulk around any exposed edges, often along the sides, top and bottom of the entire backsplash, to ensure that water does not get behind the metal and eat away at the adhesive.       


CONTACT PAPER

Contact paper last for about a year.  Contact paper comes in many different patterns and prints, with the most popular being marble. You install contact paper similar to wallpaper using a credit card or a plastic spatula to flatten the paper and get the bubbles out. 

Contact paper can go over tile walls. It is easy to clean and last for around two years.

WOOD

When properly sealed and maintained, wood can be used for a backsplash. It's great for a  diy backsplash material because of its workability.

The best types of wood to use would be plywood, Shiplap, Beadboard, and Barnwood. If installing behind a stove make sure it's a minimum distance of 18 inches.

CERAMIC TILES

Ceramic tiles can cost around $400 and over to installed.  The tiles may be the most expensive on the list. I included them only because they are the cheapest of all the traditional tiles.

If you are looking for an easy way to instantly increase the value of your home, then adding a kitchen backsplash is a great idea!