Putter Wall

Deactivation

2008-11-19T12:24:00.000-08:00

I'm not quite sure how to say it so I'm just gonna: we're deactivating Putter Wall! {Gasp! Oh no! Blood-curdling scream} I know, I know you two, but it's going to be fine. We plan to keep the blog up, we just may not post on it for awhile and didn't want to lead you on. (I hate it when blogs do that!)

We love the idea of PutterWall but want it to be quality and feel right now we don't have the time to make it quality. Its all about seasons, people, and right now is just not PW's season! But we hope and plan that there will be future times and seasons for our beloved PW and we'll be sure let you know when they are. Until then we'll carry out our current thoughts on domesticity via our personal blogs.

It was a good ride...that three months...a good ride, indeed. {sniff}

Midwest Modern 2

2008-11-13T13:46:00.000-08:00

The new Amy Butler fabric is out! I didn't know this until I looked at decor8 today. But take a look see... which palate is your favorite? I'm partial any swatch that involves her yellows and greens. I know she probably won't ever do this since her trademark is bright colors, BUT I would love to see what she could do with my preferred autumn tones. The mind can only reel!

To get more information on these beautiful fabrics go here.

My Very Own Deco File...

2008-11-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

In homage to Jazzy's little creative notebook, I think today I am going to start my Deco file here at Domino magazine. I already have a creative notebook, okay, who am I kidding, I have about nine million of the things. My posterity will get sick of reading them... But what's a gal to do about all the cool stuff she discovers while browsing the Internet? I say put it in your own deco file. I'll let you know how it works out for me, and if I actually end up using it. My favorite article for this month is this one. It's a fantastic slide show of some of their best work from the past three years.

These are a few of my favorite things....

2008-11-11T16:20:00.000-08:00

If any of you are like me and you're trying to figure out what you like or even remember things you like, for that matter, then you might be interested in keeping a creative journal. I made mine in a book binding class at BYU and thought it fitting that I use it specifically to record my creative thoughts and then act as a place to turn to when those creative juices refuse to flow. It has actually been really fun for me. Plus, it's one of those very non-commital journals that you can update whenever you want, which usually makes it a very enjoyable experience because you only write, draw or glue things in it when you're excited about something. Anyhow, if this is something that sounds like fun to you, below is a photo of mine along with a list of things I put in there to get you started. Plus, I know you might not think of this journal as something to fill a family history itch or anything, but come one, how fun would it be to find your mom's or grandma's or g-grandmas' or ggggg-grandma's creative journal? Priceless people, priceless.

What I put in my CJ:

List of books I want to read one day
List of movies I want to own/watch
Cutouts of cool decorating ideas from catalogs
List of things I love
Paint swatches
Fabric swatches
Writing ideas for songs
Good quotes
Sketches of craft projects
Cutout of cool haircuts
List of meals I like to make
Sketch out the layout of rooms (for ideas of the many ways I can rearrange my furniture)
List of projects I want to accomplish in the near fuuture
List of clothing items I'd like to purchase
The possibilities are endless!!!

Deck the Halls on a Discount

2008-11-10T13:48:00.001-08:00

Hey, hey! "It's the most wonderful time of the year!" and that means time to start thinking about decorating for Christmas! Wahoo! Are some of you saying to yourselves, "Back the Polar Express up a bit, no mon, no holiday fun" or "decorating is on the bottom of my holiday budget list this year." {gasp} Not to worry, friends! There are a multitude of ways to make your house looking like a PotteryBarn catalog in no time and for hardly any money at all. (Seriously. It's like where I got all my ideas).

First off, check out the origami tree! PB actually sells the papers to fold the birds. OR you could just go to Target and Costco and pick out some bold wrapping paper to pull of the same effect. And apparently the origami crane is symbolic of peace and stuff. So there you go!
Another idea that would be inexpensive that I thought clever were these little jars full of peppermints. Just go to IKEA, grab some of the $4 jars and on your way home, swing by See's and bada-bing, bada-boom. You've got some eye-catching decorations and a holiday treat never to far away from you or your guest. And try mixing it up a bit with different varieties, candy sticks, peppermints balls... the possibilities are endless! However, note how they take the wrappers off and fill them to the brim to give it the, "this is delectable-potentially-home-made- candy-found-only-in-really-cool-family-owned-candy-stores-on-the-street-corners-in-quaint-parts-of-big-cities". Okay...maybe too much, but you get my drift.

And finally, we have a gift garland below. Save your Christmas wrapping scraps small boxes ladies, because you can wrap them, put fun ribbon on 'em and string them up like so:

Good Book?

2008-11-07T11:44:00.000-08:00

So, I've got a sick-ish baby and very few hours of sleep, which leaves me a shell of a woman...a mere shell. So, I was wondering if anyone has got this book, Seams to Me, by Anna Marie Horner. What do you think? Should I throw it in my Amazon wish list?

Free Laundary Detergent!...well, almost

2008-11-06T14:56:00.000-08:00

So last night we had a really cool Enrichment night where I learned some cool things that I thought I'd pass a long. They held a budget buster class where one thing they taught us was how to make your own liquid laundry detergent. And through their own little testing process have determined it to be pretty efficient...and cheap. Apparently, your store-bought detergents, like Tide, cost about $.47 per load. With this stuff it's $.01 !!! Which they said if you do 5 loads a week equals $120 per year. Hello, ladies!!! If you're into frugality, it doesn't get any better than that!

It calls for some unusual ingredients. If you live near a Winco grocery store, they told us that they carry all of these products. Oh, and it makes 3 gallons at a time, so you may want to make it with a friend. Also, they thought it was sensitive to all types of skin, but we had one 'tester' who has a couple of sons with irritable skin and one I believe has some minor issues with it. So it might be best to test if first.

1 Bar Fels-Naptha soap, grated. (makes 2 cups)
1 1/2 cups Washing Soda
1 1/2 cups Borax
All of these can be purchased at a major market or Winco

Boil 1/2 gallon hot water and then add grated soap until dissoved. Keep stirring, add other soaps until dissolve. Take off of stove and keep stirring.

Add 1/2 gallon cool water and stir. This stirring process will keep it emulsified. Add 1 gallon cool water and stir about every 15 minutes with a mixer or stick blender. At this point you have 2 gal of water. I transfer to 5 gal bucket and add the last 1 gallon cool water (3 gal total). keep stirring with a long handle spoon. As soon as it will not separate put in containers. I use 1 gallon milk jugs.
Us 1/4 cup per load. This is safe for front load washers. Before I us soap, I give it a hard shake.

Merry Christmas to Me!

2008-11-05T10:38:00.000-08:00

So, when I first saw the poster pictured below...I fell in love...with the saying, not necessarily the poster itself. I loved it, but wasn't sure it was exactly my style. I didn't know where I would put it...(even though with kids in a house it could go really anywhere). And then, one happy day, I stumbled upon...This little beauty! Perfect for my kitchen. Oh what a happy day! I saw it in September and it's been on my mind ever since. It's perfectly my style, the color, the cupcake, the saying. It's hand painted, so it's a little pricey(for me). Anyway, I check it daily to make sure it's doing okay, and then I saw that it's a six week wait to get one, then I got all panicky...I told Sean to order me one pronto because I want it for Christmas. At first he couldn't get one, because they were all sold out, but he emailed them and now I have one coming my way(phew)...for Christmas. So, there you have it. I won't be surprised, but I will be happy...and calm and I might have a cupcake or two.

Silhouettes

2008-11-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

So I've noticed a trend with silhouettes of late throughout the home decor blogosphere. Nienie is known for her silhouette wall. Some are done professionaly with amazing detail. And then there are lots of places that give easy instructions on how to make your own through various methods here, here and my personal favorite found here. The first two are easier to do without too much computer knowledge. The last one I think provides more detail as long as you know you're way around a photoshop program. I like this idea and was curious to see if I could do it so the other day on a whim, I gave it a whirl.

I started by taking a photo of Peanut in front of a light background (with a little help from Dad).

After downloading the photo, I just used one program (Scrapbook Deluxe) to take out the light background and then put it in Publisher and messed around with the Contrast and Brightness until I got this. I know most of you are far more talented than myself in Photoshop and could do this easy peezy lemon squeezy. Anyhow this is what I came up with:

Can you guess who it is? Can you? Can you? Like I said, I did this on a whim. As you can see my subjects where never sitting still, which didn't give my silhoette the sharpest edge in the world and oh, yeah, he is wearing a hoodie :) I did like it with his mouth open smiling however.

This was super fun to do and I plan to mess around with it some more in the future. Hopefully, I'll get it down just right.

Clever Idea

2008-11-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

So, I'm thinking about ordering these hangers. Wouldn't they be cute somewhere in my kitchen or in my hallway to hold all of Gracie's art work? I think so. I have one in my check out box...I just need to be brave and order it.

Trick or Treat

2008-10-31T12:09:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN Everybody! I thought on this festive day it might be fun to share an easy and quick way to scratch a creative itch.

So, just to clarify, I'm not a scrap booker. I don't like pulling out multitudes of tiny pieces and scraps and spending hours and hours on one page. THEN developing all the photos!!! I mean who does that still? Just kidding, it's probably a very good thing to do with your photos. BUT I do LOVE digital scrapbooking, which is basically the same this minus the mess and the necessity to develop photos. Anyway....now that I have that out of the way, I do love cool paper that is usually used for scrap booking. It's like fabric. The cool designs and possibilities are endless. So if you think cool paper is for hard scrap bookers only? Think again. There are many fun little "paper crafts" you can do to fill your decorative paper fetish. You can find the free Amy Butler "Gift Tag" craft that I did for some Halloween bags here.

I'm thinking of making my holiday presents all about the tag this year. Do you guys think or plan about how you're going to wrap your presents?? Or is that just me? But for reals: wrapped in brown paper, fun ribbon and a cool tag? They are really fun to make. The ones I made for these bags are pretty simplified from the Amy Butler pattern, but they are so because they do take some time to do. But very ideal holiday craft to whip out while your watching TV or winding down after the babes have gone to bed.

Sugar Cookie Itch

2008-10-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm going to out myself right here on Putter Wall. I can hardly believe it. It's like telling someone I dye my hair. I've joined Weight Watchers. There, I feel better. Why am I telling you this on Putter Wall? Well...I love to bake, by love I mean LOVE. As a result I haven't touched my darling sugar container for 2 and half weeks. The reason why I joined is because I was confused. The longest I sit down during the day is approx. 6.35 minutes. I go running in the mornings. With all my activity, my "baby" weight should be gone, but it's not. Instead it's hosting a luncheon on my behind. Turns out, I was eating 19 tons of butter in one day. This must stop. So, If I'm going to eat a sweet, it has to be good....killer good... as in I'm skipping my dinner for this good. Today, I baked, and it was worth it. So very worth it. Let me further explain.

Ever since I started my starvation diet...I've wanted a sugar cookie from a local bakery named Dippidee (pictured above). I love these cookies, whenever I need a break, I get in my car and get me one. They are always so cutely decorated....but alas....this happy habit has come to an all too soon abrupt halt. Excuse me while I grab a tissue...

Tonight I'm hosting my monthly writers group. I always provide a baked good at this little gathering, so, it's the one day of the month I can bake. And what did I do? That's right a sugar cookie. Let's just say, it was worth it. As I run up and down the nearby mountain I will day dream of this cookie and spur myself forward so I can eat another one. Here's the recipe. I added vanilla and made a vanilla frosting, of course you can add orange flavoring instead and do a chocolate frosting...let your heart be your guide...as long as you stay within your points guide....Mwhahahahaha!

Sour Cream Sugar Cookies
2 Cups Sugar
3 1/2 Cups Flour
1 Cup Crisco (or Butter and Shortening)
3/4 Tsp. Baking Soda
2 Tsp. Baking Powder
1 Cup Sour Cream
1/2 Tsp. Nutmeg
2 Eggs
Pinch of Salt

Cream butter or shortening, add sugar and beat well. Beat in eggs. Dissolve baking soda in sour cream. Sift 2 1/2 cups flour with baking powder, nutmeg and a pinch of salt. Add alternately with the sour cream mixture to the butter mixture. Stire in additional sifted flour (I use a lot more than a cup), to make a dough that can be handled. Flavor with vanilla, lemon, or orange. Bake at 425 degress for around 6 minutes. Cookies will be lightly browned. Do not overbake.

Cinderelly, Cinderelly

2008-10-29T15:21:00.000-07:00

Land sakes! It has taken me forever to get over to the computer today, and when I do, my Internet doesn't work. Exasperating! Anyhow, I just got done having a wonderful weekend with my parents and while they were here we went and got our holiday pumpkins at a really cool produce stand not far from our house, called Carpinitos. First time I had been there. They had the best variety of pumpkins I have ever seen and really cool gourds. Gourds, you ask? Let's not forget gourds can be an awesome fall decoration, people. Just throw them in a pretty bowl and bada-bing-bada-boom, you've got a beautiful, colorful centerpiece for like $5. Especially, when your gourds look like this (there might be a little boy pumpkin and a squash pumpkin thrown into the mix):

The other thing worth noting on our fall produce trip was that I opted for "Cinderella" pumpkins this year instead of the normal, run of the mill pumpkin. I think they are so coool looking. Besides really looking like mini Cinderella carriages, they have vibrant colors, ranging from yellow to red-orange and I think they look really cool stacked on top of each other (and you can't do that with regular pumpkins.) Then, there are you squash pumpkins and your "ghost" pumpkins...the possibilities are endless! So don't think you ever have to limit yourself in your fall pumpkin hunting.My cute Cinderella pumpkin model

My current choice of porch style pumpkin display: stacked

In love...with a Pig

2008-10-27T07:45:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know the picture is small, but it's the best I can do. I am in love with this little piggy plate.

I love it so much. I can't begin to tell you why. I want to take this pig plate and carry it around in my back pocket(my rather large back pocket) and show it to everyone I meet...to the guy that bags my groceries, to the lady who checks out my library books. And when at a party(that I rarely attend) everyone will most certainly ask me why I like a plate with a pig on it so much that I actually carry it around. When this happens, I will look them in the eye and tell that the heart has it reasons that reason knows nothing of....I will then bid a quick farewell...with a nod of my head...before escaping to the cold dark streets...all alone...except for my little plate that has a pig named Wonky on the front.

Favorite Color

2008-10-23T21:57:00.000-07:00

While growing up, one common get-to-know you question asked would be, "What's your favorite color?" This question confused me greatly. Why don't you just ask what food I'd pick if I could only eat one thing the rest of my life? I loved painting and coloring and limiting myself to just one color seemed unbearable, so I decided my answer to that question would be: I don't have one.

However, times change. People change. I changed. And I think, my friends, it is safe to say, I now have a favorite color. I couldn't help it. It just gradually came upon me like something I couldn't control and something that was meant to be. It followed me where ever I went, whether I was the cause or the effect. We grew a deep love and a mutual respect for one another. And now, that Yelly and I have found each other, we will never part. Yelly and I are one. Dear Yelly and I go every where together; my living room, my kitchen, our bedrooms, and sometimes, even my clothes. Even though Yelly isn't my best color, we make it my best color.

I bring you this dramatization for two reasons: 1) To illustrate a great home decor tip in regards to color. 2) Yellow really has become my favorite color.

My mom always told me it's good to have a base color that links your house together. In one room it might be the dominant color and in another just an accent. It could even be laced lightly everywhere through your entire home (I don't know if making it the dominant color throughout your whole house is best though). Doing this helps your rooms transition more easily into one another pulling your chosen style of decor all together. Many times as you decorate your home, you'll do this without even realizing it. What's is my home's color of choice, you ask? Hello, yellow*. And there you have it folks! Your decorating tip for the day.

Does your home have a color?

* Don't be alarmed guys...I'm not talking like this YELLOW, but more like THIS, THIS, and THIS YELLOW

And if you're still alarmed, well, then, I guess you'll just have to except Yelly as he is.

Counted Thread

2008-10-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

If you know me and Jazzy than you may know that we grew up in the home of a master counted thread artist. I am not kidding people. I have big plans of getting my mom's house featured in a magazine. Not only does my mother have a gift for counted thread, she's an ultra talented interior designer. She's also very humble and would totally brush off that comment, but it's the truth. Gifted is a perfect way to describe her skills.

That being said, I've officially started my very first heirloom quality piece and I'm scared silly. It's on 32 count linen and I'm using silk thread and it's huge (for me, not for my mom). I wish I could show you a picture but the website has all their photos protected. So, I can't. But I can show the last two I've finished. You can get your own pattern here.

I did this one because I love to read...and would love to have my very own huge library one day.

I did Merry Sunshine because it's a saying my mom would always say to us as kids. So, it carries a special memory with it.I want to do this one, because I apparently have a thing for polka dot dresses.

The results are in

2008-10-21T11:46:00.000-07:00

Sorry, not for president. Just for our little "Interests" Poll we've had going this last week. (We, here at PutterWall like to vote for the things that really matter.) Anyhow, thanks for everyone who voted. I was curious and now I have answers. I love polls. Who knows what I'll ask next....
On to the results:

Interesting...very interesting. How fun. So lets debrief: Most of you, I noticed, voted more than once. Don't worry, that's totally cool. It seems like most of us (yes, I voted too) are interested in interior design along with one or two other things, which is great. This will help give us a better idea on what things to focus on.

Mmmm...Monday

2008-10-20T07:06:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking I'm going to go ahead and start a new regular feature here on Putter Wall, called Recipe Monday. I know. It's not very clever. I am open to suggestions. Something not so dorky as Mmmm...Monday. Wait, maybe I like that. I have a thing when it comes to liking sort of dorky titles. Let's see. The weather is getting a wee bit colder...I already posted the recipe for pumpkin cookies...what shall we do today? Let me go grab my cook/baking books. Give me a second, I'll be right back.

Okay, I'm back and the winner is! Okay, not so much a recipe as a product. I never did make it all the way to my recipes. I got distracted (imagine that) by my delicious and wonderful cocoa. I cannot tell you how much I adore this stuff. My cousin and aunt first introduced it to me and it's been the reason behind many baked-good compliments. It makes anything chocolaty-that much better. I am not kidding. I am in love. You know, with my husband and this cocoa.

Let's Discuss Decals

2008-10-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

So, decals have been a big trend of late and posting some pictures of them for the playrooms below reminded me of how cool I think some of them are and then how...interesting others are. Anyhow, I did some looking around and found these...a couple from Pottery Barn, but most of them are from Etsy (fabulous selection their). So here we go:

I thought these were pretty cool...

Different strokes for different folks...

A fun way to monogram....

Functional Playrooms

2008-10-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

So I just got home from a play group. I just loved the woman's house we went to. It had a great layout and since it had a kitchen table area and a dining area, she chose to change the dining area into a play area for her cute 18 month-old. I'm not the type of person that gets all jazzed about turning my house into something that's ran by my children. I'm all about my adult space, respecting things and putting toys away at the end of the day...but seeing my friend's house got me thinking...if there was a right way to do it by making a play area/room that was functional, cute, not the focal point. Obviously, I'm talking 'perhaps someday' here.

Lately, I've been thinking of more ways to make our time at home funner for Peanut and for me. Something that accommodates the both of us, where we can play and not have to worry about this and that being destroyed. And I loved how the play area was right off of the normal adult area, so its not like he has to go into a secluded room somewhere to play. I don't know. Like I said, I'm just thinking. Here is a list of things I do like about this idea:

A place where they don't have to worry about what they get into
An area that has excessive amounts of storage.
It has kid sized stuff, like chairs, tables
Use their art and creations to decorate some of it.
Fun colors!

So here are some cool ideas I found (all from Pottery Barn and you can find more ideas here):

I thought photos 1 & 2 looked like potential "adult" parts of the play area. I thought photos 3, 4. & 5 gave great example of decorating a play area; blown up photos of the kids, art work, vibrant decals (isn't the lion sooo cute?). And in photos 7 & 8 give good ideas for that excessive storage I was talking about :)

Another Excellent Blog

2008-10-15T17:14:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore this blog. By adore, I mean it always seems to articulate what I am feeling. Anyway, this post hits the nail on the head of what I have been thinking and feeling for some time. - Autumn

Ponder Some More...

2008-10-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, my clean laundry is in a heap on my bed, five million dirty dishes are scattered about my kitchen, and you can write love letters in the dust on my chest of drawers. That being said, I think it would be good to ponder some more on Jazzy's previous post. I'm really trying to figure out what I am good at, or maybe, could be good at if I really practice. I think everyone should have something they love to do...

Also, if you want a good article about decorating and Anthropologie, two of my favorite things, check out this one...http://decor8blog.com/page/2/

My Formula

2008-10-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

Time for a poll!!! I mean, it is voting season and who doesn't love a good poll? It's over there to your right. I'm interested in what you're interested in. So go over there (right this very minute) and click on which type of craft/hobby/profession/passion/talent you are into the most or hope to be into one day (and who would I be if I didn't let you vote for more than one)....then come back here and read the rest of my post.

I, myself, don't know. And I'm not afraid to admit it. I don't know because I am interested in a all of it!! (interests of the creative, femine nature, mind you). So I'm puttering. Puttering in many different things, trying to figure out where my passions match up with my talents. BUT "creating", unfortunately, takes time and money. So while I'm over here dabbling in this or meddling in that, I do feel that it is important to use my puttering to slowly discover my talents and passions (wait, got the passions down...it's that dang talent part) prioritize my interests. So I may one day throw my whole heart and savings account into the hobbies I love the very mostest. And if, what I choose fits my formula, then perhaps I could make a little money off of it one day. (Let's not get excited people, I'm talking like in ten year when all my children are in school and I've had enough amount of time to become really awesome...at something :)

...too bad I didn't figure this all out before college.

Delicious...and Fallish...Perfectish

2008-10-12T18:09:00.000-07:00

Cream Together

1 Cup Shortening

3 Cups Sugar

Add

2 Eggs(room temperature), 1 at a time

1 Large Can Pumpkin

5 Cups Flour

2 Tsp. Baking Soda

1 Tsp. Salt

2 Tsp. Cinnamon

2 Tsp. Nutmeg

2 Tsp. Cloves

2 Tsp. Allspice

Drop by teaspoonful on Greased cookie sheet, or use parchment paper

Bake at 375 degrees 12-15 minutes (Sean's option, 17 min at 350 degrees)

I cooked these scrumptious delights up at 350 degrees at 13 minutes. So, ya know, just keep your eye on them.

Chocolate chips, cream cheese frosting, the bathtub, walnuts, would all work as great additions to this cookie.

(please keep in mind that this recipe makes approx. 5 million cookies. I always half it.)

Recipe Courtesy: Sean's Mom.

BOO!

2008-10-10T11:41:00.001-07:00

Have you seen the Ghost of John...
Long white bones and the rest all gooone
Ooooo, Oooo-oooo-ooo-ooo
Wouldn't it be chilly with no skin on...

That's the only Halloween song I know, so I make sure I make good use of it during this SPOOKY season.

Some of my most favorite memories while growing up center around the holidays and even more specifically, decorating for the holidays. At the beginning of the months of October, November and December my mom would send us in the basement to retrieve the respective boxes full of holiday wonderment. Well, Halloween was the first holiday to kick off the season. And, of course, I'm working on building my personal Halloween decor collection for my little family. However, these things take time so in honor of this great tradition I'm listing my favorite Halloween decorations that I love to pull out each year and a couple of other things I'd like to add in the years to come. Do you have any favorite Halloween mementos or fun ideas for some? I'd love to know...

My "Graveyard" and "Boo" cross-stitches that I made when we were first married

My Jack-o-lantern and Cat pillows! Ooooo.

Pumpkin People! I got this idea from Martha Stewart. Wouldn't that be fun? Instead of Snowmen, make little pumpkin people for each member of your family. So fun. I think I'd choose something different to do my pumpkin person's teeth though (creeepy).

In the Pottery Barn catalog this last month I noticed they did a lot with black feathers. I would like to play around this idea more. I think its a very cool, spooky, look.

HAVE FUN HAUNTING YOUR HOMES
THIS HALLOWEEN SEASON!

A Little Obsessed

2008-10-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

And the winner of the pincushion is...."Jex Family"! Woot! I love to say woot. I'm pretty sure I say it constantly. I will probably stop saying it when my mom tells me I say it too much. Congratulations "Jex Family". When you receive your pincushion, please remember that I have no sewing experience. You do not need to worry. It will not fall apart as I was so afraid it would fall apart due to my lack of experience that a huge pincushion shredder could not damage it. I'll get your address from Jazzy.

Moving along...when I get intrigued by something, whether it be an idea, a book, a pincushion, I become not just interested, but obsessed. I must know everything there is too know. I immerse myself in it, I try to figure why I like it so darn much. The obvious answer with the pincushion is because they are so cute and are strawberries. What is not to like? I made them from a Heather Baily pattern. The flower is also a pattern from her shop. I am dying to make more. She also has a pear pincushion that is going to be this year's Christmas craft for all relatives and friends that are interested.

If these little babies spark your interest, get yourself a pattern. They are uber easy. Seriously. I work on them on Sunday afternoons. And if they don't spark your interest, be happy you won't find yourself one day ignoring your children while taking a gazillion pictures of a stuffed strawberry.

Until next time...may your quest for a beautiful life be slightly more fulfilling than exhausting. Is that a lame sign off? ...sort of? I will work on it. - Autumn

Start Small

2008-10-08T07:20:00.000-07:00

Organizing makes me happy. Seriously. I know there's that whole cleanliness thing and knowing where stuff is located thing...and don't get me wrong, they're great side benefits, but to stare at my freshly organized bedroom closet with my husbands ties securely placed, by color and usage, on one of those tie hangers with the grippers or to look at a newly found spot made specifically for my work out clothes (if they're not easily available, I won't put them on) or to marvel at my innovative solution to store my shoes brings a warmth to my heart, giddiness to my step and a smile to my face.

However, I know all of you aren't walking around with your label maker searching for new ways to use it, so if that's the case, no biggy. If you desire more organization in your life, start with something small...like a kitchen drawer...

House like a Movie

2008-10-06T12:05:00.000-07:00

I want my house to look like a movie set from a romantic chic flick, something Jane Autenish or perhaps something set in Europe. I just do. I can't help it. Maybe it's because I want to be a writer and live constantly in my imagination, or maybe it's because movies are designed by talented people that have a limitless budget. Either way, I'm game.

My only problem is that I must decide on what type of movie. If I don't then I will become confused and wonder what era I'm trying to be from. Case in point...

Here is the best clip I could find from the movie Chocolat. I love the colors she uses in her shop. I love how it is rich and inviting and a beautiful hue of greenish-blue accented by a dark rich brown that looks like chocolate. What a happy/romantic place to be.

I simply adore the main living room in the Kiera Knightley version of Pride and Prejudice. I love the color. I love the pictures hanging on the wall in the background. I love the couch. I just love it all. In fact, I can see this room being perfectly in style in a house in this day and age. I love the English cottage style.

I just think this would be fun. Not really a "family" sort of style...more of a "I'm a single and a bombshell" style. But how much fun would it be to saunter around this room?

Hmm...I'm still in the process of trying to discover my style. As a result, you might see a lot of posts like this one as I try to hone and figure out what it is I like and dislike, what makes me happy and what colors I like. Hopefully you won't find it too boring.

That being said...what movie do you want to have your living space look like?

What's that Smell?

2008-10-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

So my friend Laura and I went shopping for a very specific and important reason today. To stock up on our... fall season candles. You thought I was going to say food storage, didn't ya? Pshhh, I wish. Priorities, people, needs before wants.

Smells are a big deal to me...the good and the bad. There is power and emotion attached to smells. And just like we all know what it means when a negative tone is attached to the phrase "what's that smell?" (dirty, chaotic, what did you step in?) more importantly we know what it means when a positive tone is attached to the same phrase (happy memories, homey vibes, clean, put together, what are you cooking, you look beautiful today, etc.)

I grew up with warm cozy scents wafting through my house and I LOVED it. Which is why, to this day and forever more, I will have smelly good candles in my home particularly around the holiday season. Which is upon us! So, back to business...

As we were shopping for candles, I realized, I know a lot of useless information about candles, that perhaps you might find useFUL.

Potency: Some candles have better potency than others. First, you want to pick a good brand, but even within the brand and scent, some are a bit stronger than others. Typically, you want to go with the stronger potency. A good way to tell, is simply compare smell with other candles of the same flavor as opposed to grabbing the first one you see. You can also gauge more accurately how the candle will smell lit, in your home, by smelling the inside of the lid.

Quality (Wick & Wax): Higher quality candles have cotton wicks. Cheaper brands usually have metal wire in their wicks which isn't the most ideal thing you want smoking off in your home. Also, higher quality candles are made of natural waxes like bees wax and soy.

Size/Shape: If you plan on burning your candles often, buy them in the jars, 10 oz or bigger. The bigger they are the longer they last and I find any candle smaller than that, particularly, tea lights or votive candles can be dangerous. I speak from experience (yikes).

Safety: You want to keep your wick trimmed approximately 1/4" at all times. It keeps those crazy flames under control and burns closer to the wax helping the wax to burn more evenly. And as a helpful hint, put the lid on instead of blowing flames out. This cuts down on the smoke and prevents that thin black layer of soot caking up on your wall. Remember to always place candles in open, well ventilated areas. I know that's like, "duh" but I've seen smart women put them on shelves either with more shelves above them or too close to the ceiling and at the very least it makes an ugly black circle.

Favorite Brands and Scents:

Yankee*
Favorite Yankee Scents: Spiced Pumpkin (burning presently), Harvest, Home Sweet Home, Cinnamon Stick Christmas Wreath and Home for the Holidays
*Although ranging from$15 (10 oz) to $25 (22 oz) you can always get them at Bed Bath and Beyond with a 20% off coupon or they usually offer online discounts at the Yankee store. So don't settle and buy one at a high-end boutique!

Root*
Favorite Root Scents: Pumpkin Spice and Cinnamon Bun
*These are priced about the same as Yankee, but are harder to locate and I've never seen them on sale.

Autumn time and the holidays are the best times to have smelly goodness in your homes so go get some candles!

And if you have any favorite brands or flavors you love, PLEASE SHARE!

Presenting (drum roll please)...

2008-10-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

The new and improved
PutterWall!

And here to introduce these changes are, none other than, sisters, Autumn and Jazzy!

AUTUMN: Thanks Bob(whoever you are, as I don't really know a Bob excepting my Father-in-law)! And thank YOU for visiting. I can't tell you how excited I...
JAZZY: ahem.
AUTUMN: ...WE are finally getting this blog going to share with all of you...
JAZZY: Hi Mom!
AUTUMN: ...we hope to have fun, light-hearted entries about our efforts to make our homes beautiful places to live.
JAZZY: This will include anything from organizing our closets (I'm getting excited already!) to learning what to do with that sewing machine.
AUTUMN: Or what not to do. Mwhahahha [smile/wink]. I swear I'm not this crazy in real life. Really.
JAZZY: We hope this is a blog you can visit to acquire ideas and inspiration for your homes
AUTUMN: With some style. Whatever style that may be. (Please refer to our amazing categorized link list to your right =>)
JAZZY: And watch us as we attempt to do the same!

AUTUMN: Now for the drawing. Take it Jazzy!
JAZZY: This is how it works. Whoever comments on this post will automatically be put in a drawing for these sweet and juicy pin cushions* made by Autumn {Design: Heather Bailey} . We'll announce the winner next Thursday, October 9th, so comment before then. Our daily updates will start on Monday, the 6th.

*Cute niece not included in the prize

And last but not least, if you are interested in adding our cute, little PutterWall button link to your blog, please email us at:

putterwall@gmail.com

Now, pick a link or two and stay awhile!

Almost Ready!

2008-09-30T21:41:00.000-07:00

This Thursday we will officially be relaunching Putter Wall. Can I get a what-what-woot-woot!? Is that dorky? Okay maybe a little. Anyway. We are excited. We've got a give away planned and everything. Just like a real blog.

good quote

2008-09-25T07:10:00.000-07:00

"Have nothing in your homes that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful."- William Morris

Just thought this quote was good for this blog and should be somewhere....you know how we are under construction.

Under Construction!

2008-09-16T23:32:00.000-07:00

Please check back in the next couple of days for our totally neato ravamp.

Which would you chose?

2008-09-05T12:31:00.000-07:00

I am so in love with these prints. This one belongs in my family room. I love it.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=46872

Project Runway! Here I come!

2008-08-21T20:04:00.000-07:00

...or more like Home Ec 101, here I come. No matter. I finished sewing my first apron today! I got the pattern from my Amy Butler book and I'm so excited. With the hundreds of mistakes I made, I think it turned out rather well. Not wanting to waste money on a project that I knew wouldn't turn out so great, I just used a bunch of quarter flats sewed together here and there. Because of that, I took the liberty of sacrificing length in a few areas, it looks a hair small on. Not bad, just a little unflattering to the thighs :) Anyhow, here she is:

Mistakes:

Too big of a margin around the pocket. I'm sure the only thing I could fit in there would be a tea spoon.
I still really need to work on sewing straight lines.
Cutting fabric more precisely. I blame the quarter flats
If you were to look closely, the towel loop is a mess. Small pieces of fabric are harder to sew than large ones :)

What I learned:

Pleats! yeah for my beautiful (semi-okay) pleats!
Follow instructions exactly.
Read instructions very carefully.
If it just feels like you did something wrong, even if you don't notice it...you probably did.
Nifty folding tricks and stuff that I didn't know before.
Pins aren't just for show. Make sure they're actually holding things in place.

Finally Finished

2008-08-20T20:53:00.000-07:00

Here they are! The nightstands I was talking about. They are all done, finally after about two weeks of working on them every spare minute. I'm quite happy with the outcome and I'm totally loving the extra storage space!

After a little stripping off the previous paint...

After a lot of stripping the previous stain:

Priming...

Painting...

Done!

Bedroom updates complete! (Nightstands with newly painted walls)...

Craziness

2008-08-12T15:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally painted my bedroom. For a year and a half I dealt with a color I was never in love with and now that is taken care of ~sigh~ This time its nothing exciting. I just went with a cream color. I figure my bedspread was busy enough that I should tone things down elsewhere. Now, what I left to do is all the fixins. Tonight, Phil is going to help me hang our curtains and guitars (I'm hanging them on our wall...it should be interesting). After that, all I have left are the nightstands...

I told you earlier I was stripping the stain off our kitchen table? Well, that has been put on hold completely because I discovered these nightstands on craigslist. Now, all my free time is being spent with them. I'm about done stripping the paint off of the last one and then I'll start painting. I hope to have them done by the end of this week at which point I will write a post just about my "adventure with my nightstands". I hope they turn out how I envision...we'll see. If they don't, you may not ever hear about them again. :)

Current Drug of Choice

2008-08-06T19:08:00.000-07:00

Whenever I'm feeling a little down and out, I click to this web page and boy do I feel better. Please little sewing machine come to me soon so I don't have to chase the mail lady. Thanks.

Someone please stop me!

2008-07-29T18:23:00.000-07:00

Okay for all my "I don't do craft" attitude I've copped over the years, I've totally surprised myself and done a 360. Really and honestly. I can't help myself. Why? Because I've discovered there are actually cool, clever, darling and immensely cheaper- to- do -yourself things out there. For some reason, my mind always pictured crafts as wood crafts. My eyes are slowly being opened. I'm currently in love with fabric garlands. I love them. I've already made one for Jared's room and if I have my say they will cover my house. Anywho, I am WAAAYYY too lazy to go upstairs and take a picture of the one I made. I will do it at a later time. I am currently starting one for Gracie's room, so I thought I would post a picture from the gal I got the idea from. She has a blog, and as I've mentioned, I am WWWAAAYYY too lazy to find the link. Anyway, one day I will post my favorite decorating blogs (they are my current drug of choice), and pictures of my crafting. Until then...here's an idea of what I am doing. Please keep in mind, that while mine is cute, it's not as cute as the one in the picture. I have a lot to learn.

Project: Stripping Dining Room Table

2008-07-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

I'm in the process of painting my kitchen table, but first the old finish needs to be stripped. I'm using liquid stipper and just applied my first coat to my first chair. I'll let you know how it goes. All I know so far that if it touches your skin, it burns. So don't let it do that, ok? ok.

This looks similar to what I'm using with the spray bottle. This isn't the same brand I'm using however.

Dare I?

2008-07-16T22:47:00.000-07:00

So I really want to make some curtains and pillows for my living room. I'm nervous, because I want to do them in a cool, modern/vintage-y fabric. Does this scare you, because I feel like that's a tall order. Especially for one who has zero to no sewing skills. Like I always say, I'm a gal still trying to find my style...so let me know what you think. I've searched through a bunch of fabrics and these were my top 3 favorites. I included the main colors of my living room (the red and orange are minimal accent colors).

Option 1

Pro: I really, really like this one and has every color I would ever need!
Con: Mucho expensive ($24/yd...yeah, I don't think so) and I think the end result may just be a tad bit too busy.

Option 2

Pro: Ya know, I don't have one. I just decided I don't like this one. Unless you like it, then please let me know.

Option 3

Pro: I kind of like this one. I have a few gold accents and kinda think this could work. I love the pattern...exactly the type of thing I'm looking for. Price is right.
Con: I said 'kinda' a lot in my pros. Maybe too much. Afraid it won't look good.

P.S.

2008-06-19T15:00:00.001-07:00

You see that planner on the table? I dreamt that Barack Obama was holding it close to his chest and when asked what it was, he answered that it would solve all the world's problems. I'd better not lose it.

Help!

2008-06-19T14:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I love, love, love black and white. I am also painting my kitchen yellow (not the yellow in the picture). Anyway, so on the above pictured wall I want to put something striking. I am thinking either this black and white wall paper or the silerware cutouts. What do you guys think?

Oh, I will also be putting up a silver back splash. Thanks so much for your help! - Love me, Autumn.

PB Design Library

2008-06-06T12:43:00.000-07:00

I did order those books on sale and I received them in the mail today. They look like their text is informative as opposed to just fun to look at, so hopefully I can learn some things. I flipped through them, but I'm waiting for a quiet moment to myself when I can fully enjoy them.

Overwhelmed

2008-06-05T18:05:00.000-07:00

So I just got home from wandering around Home Depot and Target trying to get a feel about what project I wanted to get started on. A number of which have a 90% chance of never getting started at all. As I was at Home Depot I found I was mostly interested in painting my room, so I figure that will be first. Here is an outline of the rest of my 'projects' I hope to execute in the near future. And by near future I mean probably not until August or fall because I just don't have the time in the next couple of mo

1. Paint my bedroom a different color.

2. Purchase a floor lamp (I know this really isn't a project, but saving/earning the money for it and deciding what one I want can be)

3. Re stain or paint my dining room table black

4. Paint my dressers. Yep, still haven't done that yet. This particular project seems so daunting to me.

So anyhow. There are my thoughts, organized. Hopefully, we'll see some results.

Pier 1 Imports

2008-06-03T16:16:00.000-07:00

I think a quality that makes a good shopper is being aware of and utilizing all your options. Get ideas at one place and know there is something almost identical for $50 cheaper at another place OR know this store is really great for their accessories but is left lacking with quality furniture. Anyhow, you get my drift. I have quite a bit of learning to do still. Anyhow, I was in Pier 1 the other day and although I occasionally shop there, I sometimes forget all that it has to offer. And its the closest thing out here to a Thai Pan Trading Co. Its prices are respectable with lots of sales and they usually help the creative juices flow. And that is what I wanted to say about Pier 1.

PB June 2008

2008-05-30T08:47:00.000-07:00

So I got the June 2008 Potter Barn catalog in the mail the other day and here are some photos of my favorites. You can probably tell I'm in the market for a lamp :)

If I had a cool porch, I would hang this flag during the month of July (and maybe the whole summer). Very cool patriotic decoration, I think.

I LOVE the lamp in this picture. I need a new floor lamp and if they made this a floor lamp, I would seriously consider saving up for 5 years to purchase it. I actually love this whole desk scene. I would love a really cool office space one day.

I also loved this floor lamp. I want something unique, but remains versatile with other decor options. However, I feel as thought this lamp really isn't conducive to a home with small babies :) But still, very cool lamp.

SALE!!!

The super cool oversized PB letters are on sale for $4.99. Cool! Yeah, that's what I thought until I took a closer look and all the letters I would ever want (J, P, R, S) are all sold out, bummer. Autumn, that awesome 'A' IS still on sale, however. Ooohh or a 'G'...didn't check the G's though.

Pottery Barn Design Library is on sale for $9.99. I'm seriously considering making a purchase here because I've wanted to start collecting these for awhile. What would I pick first though? bedroom, bathrooms, or living room? OH! Just saw there was a boxed set of 3 for $20...score!

I'm a Genius!!!

2008-05-27T21:45:00.000-07:00

So I came up with a super nifty way to baby-proof our wad of computer cords underneath our desk. It came to me while I was lying in bed last night. Maybe it will work for you too. However, it really only works if you have a larger piece of furniture flat up against the wall. You just simply push the cords up against the wall and slide a piece of cardboard between the cords and furniture, kind of creating an imaginary wall. How you need to resize the cardboard or cut it to make sure all the cords get where they need to can be another challenge, but for this particular situation it worked great! Now I just have a thousand other things I need to figure out before Ryder gets himself into trouble.

Revival

2008-04-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

This blog needs a REVIVAL. I will work on it. Sorry folks, I've been in a creative drought of late.

My Encounter with Candice

2008-03-06T13:50:00.000-08:00

So you know how your have dreams and then forget about them? Well, I just sat down at the computer to do a little blogging when I thought, "Oh! I have to blog on my Putter Wall about my personal encounter with Candice Olsen! What a rich post that will be!" It was shortly thereafter, I realized and remembered that my encounter was a dream. (Phew~ too, because I don't think I made that great of a first impression.)

Before we go there, for those of you who do not know who Candice Olsen is need to get themselves some cable (not really; cable isn't really that good for you). She is a renowned interior designer on HGTV (the Home and Garden Channel). She's turned hundreds of rooms into works of art. This is no design on a frugal budget show either, it is THE works. She definitely has her own style, but what I love about it is her ability to work together modern and traditional. She is like crazy successful too with her own furniture line and such. Anyhow, if you don't have HGTV, no worries. You can totally get the skinny about Candice online as well.

So back to my dream. I dreamt she had a showroom near Southcenter (a shopping center near where I live). I totally went there. I'm just sitting there absorbing the atmosphere of her floor, furniture and fabric samples along with some of her organizational mock-ups when lo and behold, in walks Candice herself! I put on a very calm front and pretend to be totally interested in a cherry wood closet. Before I know it, she is right next to me with her swatches asking what ones I liked. I thought to myself, oh no, I'm going to have to tell her that I'm just looking. Not wanting to sound like money was the issue (it always is) I eloquently muttered something about how I was just here for ideas. I became very surprised because my usually delightful and kind Candice started giving me the cold shoulder as if I were not longer worth her time. This upset me and it's at this point my dream gets hazy. However, I do remember thinking I wish I had Ryder with me because everyone likes me when Ryder is with me.

I must say, I'm relieved to find this memory is in all actuality a dream because I do not think Candice would have treated me that way if she did in fact have a showroom within 15 minutes of where I live.

More on Candice and her show, Divine Design

Cool Countertops

2008-02-19T22:26:00.000-08:00

So I'm always interested in learning about what's new out there and even if it's not new, becoming acquainted with all possible options. Plus, I always like to artificially shop for the beautiful home I'm going to have one day (we're all going to have one, right?) So without further ado, here are a variety of cool kitchen counter tops. Some of which I never knew existed. I'm sure the really cools ones are rather expensive...

{Granite...always dependable and beautiful}

{Glass...hmmm}

{Embossed Copper...I think this one is really cool}

{Okite Quartz...I just know that's some type of rock. You can buy a chunk of it at a gift shop in Jackson Hole or West Yellowstone}

{Stone Planking...interesting concept}

What kind do you like the best?

Color!

2008-02-16T00:28:00.001-08:00

I love color, so I thought I'd post Benjamin Moore & PB's 2008 color palate. I love the bright colors. Sometimes I wish I were a little bolder when it comes to paint, but when I do color that masks a whole room, I get shy and stick with lighter shades. However, I am a bit bolder when it comes to bathrooms because if I get sick of the color in my bathroom, I can change it far more easily than any other room in the house. What are your favorite paint colors for 2008? I'm personally digging the "Northern Air"...very soothing.

Geometric Lamp

2008-02-14T19:16:00.000-08:00

So this I saw this lamp at Target.com today and thought....ooooo, what if I put that in my living room? It would be very bold for me, but kinda cool, but very daring, but kinda fun. It also reminded me of this blog for some reason.

Bedroom Update

2008-02-13T21:37:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lack of posts, I've felt a little uncreative lately. I think its because of my efforts to eat healthy and exercise. It swear it totally sucks out my creative juices. I better go eat a brownie.

So the other day while I was organizing and clearing out the clutter in my bedroom, I just decided to rearrange all the furniture in my bedroom right then. I'm really glad I did and strongly recommend doing that for your future projects. I can now get a better sense of what color will work with my dressers along with a more accurate feel for what decorations, lighting and chair I want to get. However, before I can do anything else I need to get guitar hooks and that purse hanger for the back of my door...all in due time.

Project: Bedroom

2008-01-31T20:53:00.000-08:00

Whew, I feel like this week has gone by fast! It's almost been a whole week since I last posted and I feel like it's been a day. However, I'm okay with these long winter months going by fast. In fact, I purposely try to think of projects to do around my house while we're stuck indoors watching the rain. Well, the project I would like to tackle this winter is my bedroom. Here's why:

Problem: I feel like when we moved here (a little over a year ago) I put my bedroom on the bottom of the priority list. I concentrated on the areas that would be seen the most and although I've reserved some of my favorite decorations for my bedroom, I feel as though it all went together too fast which resulted in a modge-podge of things. And although it's grown on me, I'm still not madly in love with my paint color (how would I describe it?....celery green? That sounds weird. Pale apple green? Bright sage green? Well, hopefully you get the idea).

Goal: I've got a lot to work with, so I want to unclutter and put all the things I love in a practical and fashionable manner. Plus, are bedroom isn't huge, so I need to utilize my space the best I can.

Plan:
1. Find out what I want to work with.
BEDSPREAD!-Since this is usually the base to most bedrooms, I'm lucky I love mine (Thanks, Aunt Lancy!) It's a kind of retro, floral print with reds, blues, greens and golds.
Dressers-I do need a place to put my clothes. I need to visit my friends at Home Depot (just kidding, I don't have any friends at Home Depot) and figure out how to repaint my IKEA dressers.
Lighting-I want to have matching lamps. I already have a lot of prints and textures going on, so I need some stability here. The mismatch ones I have now aren't workin for me.
Paint-Whether I want to go to the work of repainting my bedroom...I don't know yet. We'll see.
Decorations- I have a cool mirror, one humongous photo of me (because what woman doesn't?), and some pretty awesome cross-stitches to dress my walls.
Guitar & Amp- Must find a place for these things.

2. Unclutter and organize the stuff I don't want anymore
Bags-I have WAY too many bags and I have them hanging on my wall, I need to get one of those purse hanger things to put on the back of my door. Yes, the exist. They exist and Bed, Bath and Beyond for others of you with tight space and a bag fetish.
Musical things- A keyboard plus a basket full of music, amp cords, mike, etc. Must find storage...I'm thinkin under the bed.
Figurines- What do you do with your sentimental Lladros that don't fit your current style or phase of life? Store them until you can afford to buy a cool curio? I guess so.

3. Paint dressers! (If I do decide to paint walls, it will be first on my list as well).

4. Purchase Lamps

5. Move around furniture

6. Putter and figure out how to hang guitars on my wall (bold, I know. But I must utilize space)

7. Save money for a comfy reading chair in my corner (this might take awhile).

While getting the okay from Phil and explaining to him these plans, he replied, "So you haven't thought a lot about this, then." So I may be a little detailed/extreme in my planning...but I get so much joy out of it. Phil's only concern was that the red dressers up against the green walls would look Christmasy...which is a valid point I'll have to take into consideration.

What projects are you working on or hope to work on soon?

I am Autumn, hear me complain...

2008-01-26T19:23:00.000-08:00

Hi! Jazzy asked me to write up a little bit about myself as a contributor to her darling Putter Wall blog. I will try to keep it simple and to the point. The biggest thing you should know is that I am pregnant and due in a month. So if I complain more than post, I apologize, but at least you know why. Jazzy is also my sweet sister with an eye for decorating and a super charming personality, as I am sure you all know. You can find my personal blog here.

These are the questions she wanted me to answer:

Posting Name: Autumn. I have never once had a nickname. Does that make me dorky? Maybe a little?

Current Decorating Style: I am not sure what it is called, but I love bright summery colors, whimsical decorations and funky patterns. I have been this way for awhile. A little story comes to mind. My mom and I were picking out my first towels for college. I selected one hot pink, one turquoise, one tangerine and one lemon. My mom asked me if I wanted them to match. I told her of course not, I want bright fun colors. She told me I might get sick of them. I told her I liked my selection. I mean who could get sick of a hot pink towel?

Favorite Decorating Mediums: I love cross-stitches. Coming from the home of a master cross-stitcher, it would be hard for me not to understand the value and grandeur a fantastic cross-stitch can add to a home. That goes for any well -done hand crafted project. It provides a fabulous decoration while adding personality and personal history. I also love cool fabrics, funky dishes, mirrors, and furniture (when I can afford it).

Favorite Room: This is a toss up between my kitchen and my bedroom. I daydream of a pretty yellow kitchen that smells like lemons and clean linens and a bedroom full of spicy colors and good books.

This is just a little about me. I hope to learn more about you and your personal style!

Style Friday: Eclectic

2008-01-25T20:17:00.000-08:00

***Every Saturday I would like to discuss a specific style. Basically, study it and see what defines each particular style. After doing this first post, I'm finding HGTV to be my number one source. Hopefully, I'll discover other helpful resources as time goes on. Also, keep in mind my personal comments are just my opinion. If you like something I don't, that's cool. In fact, tell me about it. Comments are cooler than cool. ***

I love eclectic styles, but I think it's a harder style to pull off well. I found some good info on the web about this particular style (mostly from HGTV.com).

Colors - The palette can vary but it's best to stick with a few neutrals to help tie all of the elements together.

Furniture - Take into account lines, finishes and materials of the pieces you're combining and look for ways to bring them together whether it be with paint, fabric or finish.

Fabrics - An eclectic look is partly defined by the multitude of fabrics, whether they be patterned, textured or both. Choose a color scheme and stick with a neutral as your grounding force, then add to it with colored and textured solids and patterns and trims, tassels or fringe.

Finishes - A combination of finishes and textures sets an eclectic look apart from the rest.

I'm thinkin'... a little too much here. Totally not diggin' the gigantic, cupid flanked mirror.

Getting a little better here. I like the pillows and splash of yellow.

I just had to throw this one in here because: Woah! I wouldn't know what to do with myself in a kitchen like that.

I thought this bathroom had some pretty cool features. Specifically the sink, mirror and fixtures. I don't know what to think about the treasure-chest-like vanity.

Like I said, eclectic is tricky. I can look at one eclectic design and totally love it and look at another and totally hate it. Which is why I think this quote from an article I found online sums up the essence of this particular style really well:

"Eclectic design is increasing in popularity," observed interior decorator Leslie Harrington, principal of LH Color in Old Greenwich, Conn. "People have gained more confidence in their own taste, and have been standing up for it with their designers. The idea is: Be true to yourself."

Help

2008-01-25T09:08:00.000-08:00

So I'm toying with the idea of painting our two dresser drawers. Scary? Yes. For a number of reasons. First being, I want to paint them red I think (or blue). Second, we bought them at IKEA and are described as such: Main parts-Particleboard, Birch veneer, Clear acrylic lacquer = Cheap. At this particular time in our lives, I believe this what a lot of our furniture is made out of. Anyhow, has anyone tried to paint over acrylic lacquered birch veneer before? Can you even do that? Well, I know you can, but is it worth it for the end product I'll get? I sure don't know a whole lot about painting so any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Headache?

2008-01-23T11:07:00.000-08:00

Do my circles give you a headache? Although I think the circles are fun, it may be a bit much. Let me know what you think.

Thank You!

2008-01-22T14:32:00.000-08:00

A big thanks to my friend AnnMarie who passed along very easy to follow instructions (my kind of instructions) on how to change your blogs' background. I've wanted to learn how to do that for awhile now, so thanks!

If any of you have found yourself in my same boat, here is the link:
http://sjhblogdesign.blogspot.com/

It's pretty fun stuff.

I hope you like the change. I felt the black on red was hard to read.

Mirrior, Mirror on the Wall, You're the Fairest of them All

2008-01-21T13:43:00.000-08:00

I love decorating with mirrors, but I've thought one needs to be careful as to not to decorate with too many mirrors or else that could get a little scary (or a little vain, for that matter). Besides coming in all different shapes and sizes, mirrors have the ability to reflect light and images making a room seem bigger and brighter and who doesn't want that? I also think there should always be a mirror by any major entrance to your home. Ya know, a little way to check to make sure things are in order before you leave the house or answer the door. Anyhow, I've had my eye on this mirror from Pottery Barn for like 2 years. I think it's everything a mirror should be and I totally want it one day. But I don't think that day is going to come because I just can't bring myself to spending $700 on a mirror or $600 or $500 or $400 ...how much would I be willing to spend for this puppy? Anyway, here it is and isn't she a beauty?

A+

2008-01-17T21:00:00.000-08:00

...Or maybe a B+ because I did make some mistakes. But here it is! My first sewing masterpiece from Amy Butler's sewing book!!! (After looking through the book thoroughly, I am very confident this one was the easiest.) If I followed her directions exactly, it would be all one color, twice as big with leather handles, but I improvised a little. It was my first, so no need to waste fabric. I didn't have the time to find leather, plus I thought the ribbon pulled both of the patterns I used which I thought would be fun as well. Pretty neato. This one doesn't serve too much of a purpose but I think they'd be fun to put gifts in. They're relatively quick to make and only probably cost $1-$2. Now, wouldn't you like to get a cute pair of earrings in a bag like that for your birthday? That's what I thought.

Let's Fight those January Yucks....

2008-01-16T15:59:00.001-08:00

By Autumn

I don't have winter blues. I have something much more dangerous: the January yucks. Its so cold that I don't dare step oustide for fear I will die of exposure. The wind howls all day and into the night. Instead of sunshine a depressing gray surrounds the horizon only to be darkened at five o'clock because night has arrived...already. It's time to bring out the big guns. I'm not sure what those are, but here are some things I am going to try to help fight the yucks.

1. Every Valentine's day I make a billizion cupcakes, then promptly come down with the flu. Wouldn't it be fun to start practicing for the big day by making heart shaped cupcakes? Yes! When the wind threatens to take away my sanity, I am going to make some delicious treats that will make my heart happy as well as my kitchen.

2. I am big believer that smells can turn an average home to something cozy and complete. Right now the scent of a cinnamon candle floats through my hall. Next time I feel like the yucks are bringing me down, I will light a candle in every room in my house and pretend like I am romantic from the days when electricity didn't exist. Luckily, I won't have to sleep with heated rocks in my sheets for extra heat. Things could be worse and far more uncomfortable.

3. I've already painted Jared and Gracie's room. Okay, I had my husband paint. I stood around and told him everything looked good. Nothing can brighten a blah January day and a home like a fresh coat of paint. It's like foundation after a bad night's sleep. Essential.

4. When things get really dark...and they will at a very early hour, I don't know what else to do but tivo American Idol, vacuum, daydream about decorations, and the day when you'll finally be able to take your daughter outside for some exercise.

What do you do to keep the yucks from taking control?

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-01-15T19:34:00.000-08:00

As previously mentioned, I got a sewing machine for Christmas. I wanted one really bad. Remembering myself in seventh grade home-ec to be rather well-versed in sewing, I knew getting a sewing machine would be nothing short of a long-awaited reunion between (wo)man and machine to finally unite in raw talent to create only things of beauty.

When I almost broke my sewing machine the first time I used it, I knew there was a possibility my vision of my sewing talent was a little skewed.

So far I've just been practicing lines and other functions and I do believe my first "thing of beauty" resembled something close to a king-sized pillow case for Barbie.

With that mentioned, you can understand why I was so excited about this birthday gift from my sister (she's always been a good gift giver):

In Stitches by Amy Butler

It is the COOLEST beginners sewing book ever! It has really cute patterns for pillows, aprons, patchwork clutches (can't wait to do those) and more! Besides that Butler gives locations to vintage fabric suppliers. Fun, fun, fun. I'll keep you posted with my new sewing projects. I will have to keep Mrs. Butler in mind as a future reference.

What is Your Style?

2008-01-14T21:55:00.000-08:00

Obviously, on a blog about interior design, style is a topic that is going to frequent the wall. As I previously mentioned, I don't really know what my style is yet. I feel as though I'm still learning a lot about myself as a person and therefore, can't cumulatively reflect my decorating into one specific style. However, I do respect and enjoy anyone's style whether it's my cup of tea or not. Not only do I like it when someone chooses to decorate with what they love, but I love seeing how they do it. For example, I love Pottery Barn. I analyze every PB catalog I get, but there are things I love that you will never see in a Pottery Barn catalog.

With that said, I love describing different interior design styles using atypical adjectives. I think with the number of decorating personalities out there, there is no way to place them in the usual traditional, contemporary, classical, etc. categories. In fact, I think it usually requires at least two descriptions to really paint your design style. For example, I currently describe my style as "casual-eclectic" because I love a variety of prints, textures, colors, but I also have a baby running (well, not running) around and probably will for the next few years, so I like to keep my fabrics comfy and washable (i.e. cordroy, microsuede) and accessories baby proof (well, as much as possible). So I'm curious, how would you describe your current design style and why?

Welcome!

2008-01-14T20:41:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Putter Wall No. 24! I'm so excited for this blog! I have the privilege of knowing many talented and creative people with homes that reflect who they are. I hope they, along with anyone else who has an interest in interior design share their ideas and thoughts. The more input, the better!

As the first, and currently the only contributor to PW24, I wanted to tell you a little bit about my creative self (which isn't much).

Posting Name: Jazzy
Current Decorating Style: Casual Eclectic
Favorite Decorating Mediums: Fun fabrics & prints, cross-stitches, color!, pictures of loved ones, pillows & throws
Favorite Room: Living Room, probably because I've spent most of my decorating efforts here knowing this would be the room people would see most. I want to one day make my bedroom my favorite room .