My husband turned to me a couple of weeks ago and said, “You know that vintage area rug you’ve got downstairs in our basement studio, trying to cover up the plywood floor? I’ve always hated that. What I’d like to see down there is something more artistic, like an acid-washed concrete floor.” So, I started […]
diy tips
Posted inBlog, Gardeners Corner
Enjoy the Versatility of Lavender by Growing Your Own
An old-fashioned, fragrant herb, lavender colors the garden with a purple haze in midsummer. This herb is so popular, it has its own festivals. Lavender’s reputation is attributed to its beauty in the garden and diversity of use, from aromatherapy to crafting. The characteristics of lavender are legendary. Culinary, crafting and medicinal recipes have been […]
Posted inAt Home, Blog
The Pitfalls of Using ‘Review’ Websites to Help Choose Your Building or Remodeling Contractor
You’ve seen them online, and the ads on TV. Use their website to get reviews before you hire a builder or remodeler (or a doctor, dentist etcetera). Their “list” can save you lots of headache, the ads claim. But how do these sites really work in helping you — or is there more to it? […]
Posted inAt Home, Blog
Celebrate Summer by Making Your Own Cool Popsicles
Summer has officially arrived and for me that brings forth childhood memories of hearing the ice cream truck music off in the distance. I would scramble to the house and scrounge around to get enough change together before the truck passed me by. My favorite was the red, white and blue Rocket Pop. Mmmm… taste […]
Posted inAt Home, Blog
How to Restore the Color of Teak Furniture
A client who has a 1960s Danish oiled-teak dining table was recently inquiring how to safely restore the original color of the furniture. The table has dark spots in several places, and the client wanted to know what to do to get back the original look — rich and warm brown. If you have teak […]
Posted inAt Home, Blog
How to Properly Install a Bedroom Mirror
Installing a mirror is easy but it does require a little bit of planning. Here’s how to install a full-length mirror on the back of a bedroom door without a fuss. If the door is solid wood, then metal or plastic clips will work. However, many doors are hollow-core and screws will not hold a […]
Posted inFeatured, Garden
Make Your Very Own Unique Stepping Stones
Looking for a fabulous garden project to spur your creativity and add personality to your yard? Making stepping stones is an easy way to accomplish both. The following instructions will walk you through everything you need to know and all the materials needed to complete this fun project at home. Louise Martin of Port Orchard […]
Posted inAt Home, Blog
How to Choose the Right Table Lamp
A common question I hear regarding home décor is how to choose living-room table lamps so they are the correct height. In most cases, tops of lampshades should be somewhere between 4 and 5 feet from the floor. A variation of 2 to 3 inches is acceptable. If you also have a floor lamp — […]
Posted inAt Home, Blog
Clearing the Air Regarding Fans: How to Ensure Yours Works Properly
Most homeowners have a hate-hate relationship with their exhaust fans, be it the one in the bathroom or the one in the kitchen, and as a result they are seldom used. Exhaust fans are designed to remove moisture, grease and particulates from your home, thus preventing these substances from adhering to your walls, cabinetry and […]