Paint and floors! (mud room progress)

<p>Well when I said I wanted to get my hands dirty again I meant it. I worked my TAIL off on the mud room yesterday! Seven hours straight – it feels like I’ve barely made a dent <em>and</em> like it looks like a whole new room all at once. </p> <p>My hand is now a claw from gripping the paint brush so long, but there’s progress! </p> <p>After I installed the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/11/some-color-in-mud-room.html">new door trim</a> my next step was to figure out what color to go with on the beadboard in the room. I shared the options I was looking into on Facebook: </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YP8PyEPjLBQ/UsGzZdo-weI/AAAAAAAAj4s/0ojXZz8ohek/s1600-h/beadboard%252520color%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="peacock blue colors" border="0" height="677" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qLyaqrlDKHo/UsGzamCdY9I/AAAAAAAAj40/oiNaPV2Pp18/beadboard%252520color_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="peacock blue colors" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I was deciding between a navy blue tone and a more peacock blue color and went with the latter – I’m a little obsessed with that color. I used it as an accent in the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/06/powder-room-redo-complete.html">powder room</a>, in the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/08/bright-basement-bathroom-done.html">basement bathroom</a> and I’ve used it in the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/search/label/living%20room">living room</a> too. LOVE. </p> <p>Thing is – painting beadboard is a major pain in the tuckus. Seriously up there with the most tedious jobs <em>ever</em>. I start by using a roller over the whole thing, not worrying about getting into the grooves. Then I take a thick, angled brush and fill in the “beads”: </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bayNJYCETIM/UsGzcSaSL3I/AAAAAAAAj48/pRxlbH3WqwI/s1600-h/painting-beadboard%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="painting beadboard" border="0" height="600" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-we3i5xwKnrU/UsGzdqm9YMI/AAAAAAAAj5E/3aWnRfGkhM4/painting-beadboard_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="painting beadboard" width="400" /></a>I use lots of paint, don’t be afraid to lather it on there. You have to go over it a few times to smooth it all out and get any excess paint out. THIS is why I feel like my hand is permanently in the claw shape. ;) </p> <p>This time, for what I think may be the first time, I painted my trim before I installed it. What WHUT? Yep. I ALWAYS install first, then paint, and I ALWAYS complain about painting after the fact. I still don’t know if I’m sold on the painting before thing. It did make it a little easier – I didn’t have to worry about taping anything off. </p> <p>But I still had to fill nail holes and touch up paint that I usually don’t have to worry about. Since I used such a deep color, I knew filling the holes would leave a white spot I’d have to paint over a couple times, so I mixed up a bit of my putty with some paint: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3rupGVdGiBA/UsGzes0jMKI/AAAAAAAAj5M/GF7GzK34K80/s1600-h/IMG_7779%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="filling holes" border="0" height="333" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fqqAMiSVWgs/UsGzfp5tIWI/AAAAAAAAj5U/01YEs8G4C_g/IMG_7779_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="filling holes" width="500" /></a></p> <p>That way it matched the wall color better. Even after it dried it was still a little lighter: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QNg0nUELGsI/UsGzhOlewgI/AAAAAAAAj5c/2XlF8769JEw/s1600-h/IMG_7783%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="filling holes" border="0" height="310" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-g8tMLyOYHsc/UsGziMRJFTI/AAAAAAAAj5k/kk8kdcP6aoA/IMG_7783_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="filling holes" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I wiped it with a wet rag and then just touched up those small areas. So, the jury’s still out on the paint or install first, at least for me. I think it may be a bit easier to paint first though. Maybe. </p> <p>So the blue color is called Reflecting Pool by Ralph Lauren. I’ve had an old paint deck for years from when they sold it at Home Depot (I would get it mixed in Behr paint). This time I took it to Sherwin Williams and got it color matched. I do love it but it’s more color than I’m used to, that’s for sure! When I’m in the room it feels deep and pretty. When I’m in another room and walk into the mud room it feels BRIGHT. :) But Lordy…I’m not painting it again for awhile so I’ll get used to it:<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0Gw8MbZaymE/UsGzjnQQtcI/AAAAAAAAj5s/kFZ9KcBoUBQ/s1600-h/IMG_7787%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="blue beadboard" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EF_GQm-Vg8w/UsGzlacZmhI/AAAAAAAAj50/ddsuN_pbr3A/IMG_7787_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="blue beadboard" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I did something a little different this time – usually the white is on the beadboard and the color is on the walls. I wanted to flip it around this time and I really like it! Now I’m not sure the door will stay that color though. It’s always trial and error for me – I just have to figure it out along the way. </p> <p>It takes me eons to put a room together but that’s because I have to think through every bit of it: <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ue1JlTOcq8k/UsGzmorvILI/AAAAAAAAj54/WjnYbWSqBDc/s1600-h/IMG_7789%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_7789" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tNgF1elCLV4/UsGzn47Df_I/AAAAAAAAj6E/S71PQqk2q7s/IMG_7789_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7789" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I’ve had half of the walls covered with the beadboard for years, but never finished it up because I was too lazy to move the washer and dryer back in the day:</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-p9CYm81CTmQ/UsGzozuOvqI/AAAAAAAAj6M/yokZi80udf4/s1600-h/DSC05798%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="black and yellow laundry room" border="0" height="400" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Msa99faBrMA/UsGzqrf30_I/AAAAAAAAj6U/qVv-l4aklpc/DSC05798_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="black and yellow laundry room" width="300" /></a></p> <p>Next up I need to continue that around to the rest of the room that will be the built in bench and storage: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_AJf3iqfdyQ/UsGzr24awFI/AAAAAAAAj6Y/ezQ-ePbQrR8/s1600-h/IMG_7794%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="laundry turned mud room " border="0" height="750" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JVWUanK16Fk/UsGzsqiFYfI/AAAAAAAAj6k/aAE4sUUFVfs/IMG_7794_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="laundry turned mud room " width="500" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3zVzAemDhQQ/UsGzuOfN3OI/AAAAAAAAj6s/XmVoDA1BRAg/s1600-h/IMG_7790%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="laundry turned mud room" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LfdleuSKWv4/UsGzvXLn18I/AAAAAAAAj60/nFp8yjn1Nxw/IMG_7790_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="laundry turned mud room" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Those holes are where we had the dryer vent and heavy duty outlet – still don’t think I’ll even cover those with drywall since I’ll be covering it all with beadboard. </p> <p>Oh I almost forgot about my FAVORITE part! The new floors!! Our flooring guy put them in for a great price again, $300 for labor. Now that I’ve watched him do it a few times I feel like I may be able to do this myself. But they make it seem so easy – they move super fast and just two of them had the floor laid in a couple hours:</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-as-f9ZaK09s/UsGzwbGXNcI/AAAAAAAAj68/UXz2sQ24KbU/s1600-h/IMG_7792%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img alt="jacobean stain hardwoods" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ej4K-5OxYhg/UsGzxo-Z5HI/AAAAAAAAj7E/cPlH0PGYf_o/IMG_7792_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="jacobean stain hardwoods" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I still need to add some trim over by the utility doors – I was more concerned with how they met at the transition piece to the rest of the house than over there. We went with the Jacobean stain and a satin poly like we have on the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/01/would-i-do-it-again-floors.html">rest of the main level</a>. After living with hardwoods for a couple years now I would use them in just about any space – even one that gets wet shoes. They’ve held up incredibly well! Any time we’ve ever had water stand on them at all they may cup up a bit but then once they dry out they’re flat again. </p> <p>You may remember I installed the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/11/hello-all-hope-your-week-is-going-swell.html">peel and stick vinyl tiles</a> in here years ago – and they held up OK. Not great, but OK. The “grout” area between the tiles easily discolored, which I didn’t like. And I don’t feel like they’d be great for an area that gets moisture – the water would easily get between them. But the tiles themselves looked pretty darn good, even after years of use. I just didn’t care for the way the the grout areas looked after all this time. </p> <p>If you had told me a few years ago we’d put hardwoods in both a bathroom and the mud room I would have laughed – but I’m a convert. :) </p> <p>Next up – finish up the rest of the beadboard (I was waiting to decide on the bench configuration), then figure out the trim that will go around the top of the beadboard: <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sAupdz1rnpk/UsGzze1LJII/AAAAAAAAj7M/ZXBhDPoPhg4/s1600-h/IMG_7791%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="painted beadboard with color" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-S7reIo3CnWA/UsGz1H2xD_I/AAAAAAAAj7U/ryKR_SRd-GU/IMG_7791_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="painted beadboard with color" width="500" /></a>Oh and paint the door trim. :)<em> Yay. </em></p> <p>THEN I can start the bench! I’m so excited about that!  </p> <p>I can’t wait to make more progress in this room – and to create more storage! I’m stoked. </p> <p>I’m just glad the bright yellow and black is gone: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-W43SALqEF1E/UsGz2JEteaI/AAAAAAAAj7c/2uYgMWPYths/s1600-h/yellow-black-mudroom%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="yellow-black-mudroom" border="0" height="400" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-drLfZfoYtcY/UsGz3oek8nI/AAAAAAAAj7k/SuOPmyT26e0/yellow-black-mudroom_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="yellow-black-mudroom" width="300" /></a>It served us well but I’m ready for I’m ready for a change!</p> <p>NOW I’m off to clean my <strong>entire</strong> house. When we’re all here 24/7 it’s so hard to keep up with it!! I want to start the new year with a clean slate! I’ll be back a couple more times this week, talk with ya later. ;) </p>

Paint and floors! (mud room progress)

Well when I said I wanted to get my hands dirty again I meant it. I worked my TAIL off on the mud room yesterday! Seven hours straight – it ...

Read more »

Buck Head Wall Art

<div align="center"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aps_BdUF7EU/UrL89tPa4DI/AAAAAAAABNc/SWBd4b3LKnc/s1600/moose+head4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY wall art, wall art, silhouette, animal head silhouette" border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aps_BdUF7EU/UrL89tPa4DI/AAAAAAAABNc/SWBd4b3LKnc/s320/moose+head4.jpg" title="" width="286" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I covet animal busts. But with price tags for the real kind in the hundreds of dollars, I realize <br />I'm not going to get one any time soon. <br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">However, I recently read a post by one of my favorite bloggers, Amy at Buffalo Roam <a href="http://buffalo-roam.com/?p=3728">HERE</a>. She printed out animal silhouettes, and painted them on cork board for her little guys room. <em>Brilliant idea!</em> <br /><br />Amy's idea gave me a plan for using a silhouette of an animal head in my home. Not to mention, this was such an easy and fun project, I just wanted to do it! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Buck Head is free to print out <a href="http://manmadediy.com/pages/4-downloads">HERE</a>. Or, if you're looking for different silhouettes, <br />just look for free graphics on Pinterest or Google. There are <em>TONS</em>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">I liked this buck silhouette that Amy linked, so, I printed it out.  I wanted a larger silhouette, but my printer wouldn't allow me to print a larger copy over several pages, so I took the small print and had it blown up at Staples. (The cost was .18 cents!). <br /><br />I then cut it out, and traced it on a large (24" x 18") canvas.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKnrUtFJF_U/UrL8wmWj88I/AAAAAAAABNA/KvkyVOR1q64/s1600/moose+head1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKnrUtFJF_U/UrL8wmWj88I/AAAAAAAABNA/KvkyVOR1q64/s320/moose+head1.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Easy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Vy5OH9NI1U/UrL80BbRToI/AAAAAAAABNI/3CgS51R7-7Q/s1600/moosehead2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Vy5OH9NI1U/UrL80BbRToI/AAAAAAAABNI/3CgS51R7-7Q/s320/moosehead2.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And super fun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uY_J_x6P-_U/UrL83goqElI/AAAAAAAABNQ/Km4YP0MZqvw/s1600/moosehead3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uY_J_x6P-_U/UrL83goqElI/AAAAAAAABNQ/Km4YP0MZqvw/s320/moosehead3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I filled in the traced head with black acrylic paint. I toyed with the idea of making him sparkly, but I'm trying to cut down on glitter...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>(Painting is not shown - but in my defense - I got side-tracked because </em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>I brewed pot of coffee, but forgot the coffee. Aaaaargh!)</em> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">While waiting for the paint to dry, I sulked a little about the coffee.  Meanwhile, I had the idea to cover the whole canvas with burlap. I checked with Big A, who can be somewhat suspicious of my (sometimes) impulsive ideas, and he actually liked this one! Woot woot! </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To keep the burlap in place, I used the staple gun, and stapled the burlap in just four places. I then used hot glue on the back side of the canvas, and glued it all around.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At this point, because I was caffeine deficient, I thought it would be a good idea to use my bare fingers to press the burlap into the hot glue! Umm <em>OW</em>. (I suggest <em>you</em> skip this step, and use something besides your fingers - like an old knife.) </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Anyway, it all worked out in the end! </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got a cool new deer head to hang on my wall. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Big A made me another pot of coffee, with coffee in it. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, my fingers, well, they'll heal. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jIw3_QYARLA/UrL89a5LGII/AAAAAAAABNY/H15ngsSthLo/s1600/moose+head6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jIw3_QYARLA/UrL89a5LGII/AAAAAAAABNY/H15ngsSthLo/s320/moose+head6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To hang, I broke a soda tab off of and empty soda and glued it to the center top of the back of the frame.  (Like <a href="http://lifehacker.com/5750306/hang-a-picture-with-an-old-pop-can-tab">THIS</a>, only I used glue to attach it to the frame). The canvas is so light you could just use a finishing nail to hang it. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aps_BdUF7EU/UrL89tPa4DI/AAAAAAAABNc/SWBd4b3LKnc/s1600/moose+head4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aps_BdUF7EU/UrL89tPa4DI/AAAAAAAABNc/SWBd4b3LKnc/s320/moose+head4.jpg" width="286" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Notes</em><em>:</em></strong></div><ul><li><div style="text-align: left;"><em> I notice that there is a strip of the burlap across the deer nose that looks a little darker, or more dense. It's less noticeable in real life, but, I may have to re-do the burlap if my OCD takes over. </em></div></li><li><div style="text-align: left;"><em>I loved this so much I made one for my sister. </em></div></li><li><div style="text-align: left;"><em>There is some debate over whether this is a buck or a moose. </em><em>The free graphic said it was a deer, but my kids say moose. What do you think?</em></div></li></ul><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div>

Buck Head Wall Art

 I covet animal busts. But with price tags for the real kind in the hundreds of dollars, I realize I'm not going to get one any time so...

Read more »

Metal sheeting candleholders

<p>Say <em>that</em> title three times fast. </p> <p>Did you just say it? Me too. </p> <p><strong><em>Oh yeah</em></strong>, it’s about that time! The kiddo will be out of school in a few short hours and after that it’s staying up late, sleeping in, eating cookies, watching movies and all kinds of general holiday debauchery. Cannot WAIT!</p> <p>This is my last project working with True Value this year and it’s one I’ve been wanting to try for eons. Seriously, I’ve walked by these metal radiator grates for years and years and always wanted to do something with them. They’re just so pretty! There are so many designs to pick from too. </p> <p>I picked up the cloverleaf design at my <a href="http://www.truevalue.com/store_locator.jsp" rel="nofollow">True Value</a> for this project: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NZAGAKLW0BM/UrRQWFsamoI/AAAAAAAAjxQ/0f5dB6umHAA/s1600-h/grate12.jpg"><img alt="radiator grate candles" border="0" height="317" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Er12iVdhvn4/UrRQXiFLX7I/AAAAAAAAjxY/1cytwSK2HMc/grate1_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="radiator grate candles" width="500" /></a></p> <p>(For you locals I go to the Pendleton, IN location.)</p> <p>I had two projects in mind and started with the easiest one. The other one will have to wait but I think it’s going to be awesome. :) This time I made some pretty candleholders with it and I think they turned out pretty cool!</p> <p>You can see the design on the metal sheet better here: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-R4UaMD11k-g/UrRQY24ITFI/AAAAAAAAjxg/A0MYtvr2lMg/s1600-h/grate22.jpg"><img alt="radiator grate candles" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-k9o__Qj2QiY/UrRQabl0hzI/AAAAAAAAjxo/QgEsUHJEkOU/grate2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="radiator grate candles" width="500" /></a></p> <p>This one is a pretty brass/gold color but there are other finishes available as well. Isn’t that cool? </p> <p>I used <a href="http://www.truevalue.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&hardwarianState=3&keyword=tin+snips&x=-1070&y=-101" rel="nofollow">tin snips</a> to cut through it but scissors work too (it’s very thin): </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LOPKt_CtjLc/UrRQb324D1I/AAAAAAAAjxw/-6-Gw3YuKX8/s1600-h/grate32.jpg"><img alt="radiator grate candles" border="0" height="333" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JKthZDlVAqs/UrRQdT3pqNI/AAAAAAAAjx4/U3sxKdDObZE/grate3_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="radiator grate candles" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It’s a good idea to wear some <a href="http://www.truevalue.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&hardwarianState=4&keyword=work+gloves&x=5&y=8" rel="nofollow">hand protection</a> (even SpongeBob gloves would work) while cutting – the edges aren’t crazy sharp but you need to be careful with it. </p> <p>By the way, I held my glass holders up to it to see what size to cut it first. Don’t forget that part. :) I used some extra Goodwill cylinders (just like I used for the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/12/metallic-goodwill-mantel.html">Christmas mantel</a>) – I told you I had a ton of these! They are ALWAYS at my local GW. </p> <p>When it was cut out I rolled it up a bit so it would start taking the cylinder shape – you need to kind of help it along: </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cJqXDtlcnko/UrRQekQOrtI/AAAAAAAAjyA/_Ficp0AssuE/s1600-h/grate42.jpg"><img alt="radiator metal candles" border="0" height="333" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-H_BQkERfjN4/UrRQgLIpW4I/AAAAAAAAjyI/Lk0J7MUN-Og/grate4_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="radiator metal candles" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Then I wrapped it around the glass to see where the back met up. I took it off and then used a simple line of wire to secure the two together: </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mj8-sDAetEY/UrRQhxGNn9I/AAAAAAAAjyQ/F4fCk_VZuVY/s1600-h/grate52.jpg"><img alt="radiator metal candles" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7hP7I-QcXCY/UrRQjRzk6xI/AAAAAAAAjyY/m-4MaUtFYH0/grate5_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="radiator metal candles" width="500" /></a> I wrapped the wire at the bottom and the top of the metal to make sure it was going to stay put, and then just slid the metal “wrap” over the glass. That’s it! </p> <p>I placed some simple votive holders with candles inside: </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-A0TAuOodofg/UrRQkkm3XQI/AAAAAAAAjyg/QduuZYRDtSo/s1600-h/radiatormetalsheetcandles2.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="Radiator sheet candleholders" border="0" height="753" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-osnNeF2VF5E/UrRQl2iBWkI/AAAAAAAAjyo/6u580zJAiQs/radiatormetalsheetcandles_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="Radiator sheet candleholders" width="500" /></a></p> <p>So pretty eh? I kept walking by them after I was done and oohing and ahhing to myself. They really are striking! I’m nuts over that metal design and the color. Of course you could spray paint the metal sheet any color you wanted too. </p> <p>I think these look pretty for Christmas but they would work any time of year really: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RFJwlBAKCqM/UrRQnu316YI/AAAAAAAAjyw/glMR1xNrbLw/s1600-h/radiatormetalcandleholders2.jpg"><img alt="Radiator grate candleholders" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hwf5izfoBdI/UrRQpBsZaCI/AAAAAAAAjy4/LzJ73zqgY_U/radiatormetalcandleholders_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="Radiator grate candleholders" width="500" /></a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Couple of things – if you have little hands around you may want to add some ribbon around the top or bottom if you think kids will try to handle them. Like I said, the edges can be a bit sharp (it really depends on where you cut them). </p> <p>Also, you really don’t need to have the glass candleholders! You could just as easily just roll them up, secure the back together and then place a votive holder inside – you can’t really tell there’s glass there when all is said and done. </p> <p>And finally, this metal sheeting isn’t cheap – I think $20-something each? I’m not sure. But I got three good sized holders out of it and had plenty left over to make another, so it goes further than you think it will. </p> <p>Have you tried any projects with this metal? I’m planning my next one already…I’ll let you know if it works out! </p> <p>I’ll be taking most of the next week away to be with family – I’m sure I’ll be back before the holiday, but just in case I don’t “talk” to you before then – I hope you have a WONDERFUL holiday season. Stay safe and enjoy your family and friends!</p> <p> </p> <p><font size="2"><em>I was one of the bloggers selected by True Value to work on the DIY Squad. I have been compensated for my time commitment to the program as well as writing about my experience. I have also been compensated for the materials needed for my DIY project. However, my opinions are entirely my own I would have done this project anyway and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.</em></font></p>

Metal sheeting candleholders

Say that title three times fast. Did you just say it? Me too. Oh yeah , it’s about that time! The kiddo will be out of school in a few ...

Read more »

Two Layer Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HizpplhDHTY/UqymUudDanI/AAAAAAAABKw/-EL9YMjYaZU/s1600/2+layer+pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <strong><span style="font-size: large;">Two Layer Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie</span></strong></div><h3 align="center" class="summary" id="intro"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PbE1cWR7oPc/Uq9H50cq9kI/AAAAAAAABLA/dMrGhuAC6lk/s1600/double+layer+pumpkin+pie4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pumpkin pie, two layer pumpkin pie, holiday pie recipe" border="0" height="193" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PbE1cWR7oPc/Uq9H50cq9kI/AAAAAAAABLA/dMrGhuAC6lk/s320/double+layer+pumpkin+pie4.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div></h3><h3 align="center" class="summary"> </h3><div class="summary">This two layer pumpkin pie is delicious!  I was craving a pumpkin cheesecake, but I wanted to keep it in a pastry crust, like a pumpkin pie.  So, I decided to combine the best of both worlds, and make a pumpkin pie with a cheesecake layer!  This is perfect for the holidays, and easy to make. <br /><br /><em>NOTE:</em> To make the pie over-the-top good, don't forget to serve with whipped cream! </div><h3><span class="yield">Serves 8 to 10</span></h3><h3 id="rI">Ingredients:</h3><ul><li class="ingredient">1 9-inch (store bought) pastry pie shell, unbaked<br /><br /><strong>For the cheesecake layer:</strong></li><li class="ingredient">8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature</li><li class="ingredient">1/4 cup sugar</li><li class="ingredient">1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredient">1 egg<br /><br /><strong>For the pumpkin layer:</strong> </li><li class="ingredient">1 1/4 cups pumpkin puree (plain - not the pie mix) </li><li class="ingredient">1/2 cup sugar</li><li class="ingredient">pinch of salt</li><li class="ingredient">1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</li><li class="ingredient">1/4 teaspoon ground ginger</li><li class="ingredient">1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg</li><li class="ingredient">2 eggs, slightly beaten</li><li class="ingredient">1 cup evaporated milk</li></ul><h3 id="rP">Directions: </h3><div class="instructions">Pre-heat oven to 350°.</div><div class="instructions"> </div><div class="instructions">In a mixing bowl, use beater to combine cream cheese, egg, 1/4 cup sugar, and vanilla extract, and beat until light and fluffy. </div><div class="instructions"> </div><div class="instructions">Use the back of a spoon to spread the mixture into the unbaked pastry shell. </div><div class="instructions"> </div><div class="instructions">In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. Beat in the 2 beaten eggs and the evaporated milk. </div><div class="instructions"> </div><div class="instructions">Pour pumpkin mixture over cream cheese layer. Spread until it is even (if you have to). </div><div class="instructions"> </div><div class="instructions">Bake pumpkin pie at 350° for about 60 minutes, or until set. (After about 20 minutes I had to cover the edge of the pie crust with tin foil so that it wouldn't get too brown.) </div><div class="instructions"> </div><div class="instructions">Cool pumpkin pie thoroughly. Serve with whipped cream or cool whip.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>(Like the fancy stars and spotlight focus thingy I used on my photos? Well. I had to, because the only picture I took of the pie was with my iPhone, in a dim room, on a cluttered table... oopsie!) </em></span><br /><em><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></em><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HizpplhDHTY/UqymUudDanI/AAAAAAAABKw/-EL9YMjYaZU/s1600/2+layer+pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="holiday recipes, two layer pumpkin pie, pumpkin pie, pumpkin cheesecake" border="0" height="222" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HizpplhDHTY/UqymUudDanI/AAAAAAAABKw/-EL9YMjYaZU/s320/2+layer+pie.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em></em></span><br />So what kind of pie are you having for the holidays? What's your favorite? I really like this cheesecake base, and might try replacing the pumpkin with cherry pie filling on the top next... Cherry Pie is my favorite! :)</div>

Two Layer Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie

  Two Layer Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie   This two layer pumpkin pie is delicious!  I was craving a pumpkin cheesecake, but I wanted to keep it i...

Read more »

Christmas Party, 2013!

<p>Well it’s a week away! And I’ve <strong>finally</strong> started my shopping. My wallet is begging me to stop already. ;)</p> <p>As I mentioned yesterday, this is the sixth year I’ve hosted this holiday linky party – I’ve done it since the first Christmas I was blogging. <em>Awww.</em> Pretty cool, I must say.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KJe8k5HKtOQ/UrGzPZThrkI/AAAAAAAAjr0/C1HdYtc6BkA/s1600-h/treeparty2013%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="treeparty2013" border="0" height="375" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sxmKAT4KJFQ/UrGzQqGn5wI/AAAAAAAAjr8/Vt5O2bMhZ4A/treeparty2013_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="treeparty2013" width="500" /></a></p> <p>We have a total of four trees in the house – technically. The fourth is a small one I put in our bedroom, with intentions of decorating with DIY ornaments every year. I always run out of time. So we just use it as a pretty nightlight. :) </p> <p>The other three are decorated though. The biggie is the 12 footer in our living room. But first things first -- I’ve had quite a few of you ask how week keep our cats out of the trees. Well…</p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-l4JQE4cPmQk/UrGzSrb7gWI/AAAAAAAAjsE/xi4yPNlUaEk/s1600-h/IMG_7708%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="435" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pwxwYcoE5H4/UrGzT7ORi7I/AAAAAAAAjsI/YoTn_QMnhu0/IMG_7708_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="" width="290" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tpKF18Y6mPE/UrGzUzMJtbI/AAAAAAAAjsU/ojZ9rPvPryM/s1600-h/IMG_7716%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="435" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eoOKjINoGTY/UrGzWBwM9vI/AAAAAAAAjsc/O3UsqfTkHsY/IMG_7716_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="" width="290" /></a> </p> <p>We don’t. :) It’s something I’ve long since given up on. They don’t chew on anything, they just like being <em>in</em> there and playing with the ornaments. You may notice that the bottom of each of our trees is sparsely decorated and that’s not because I have a toddler who takes them off, but three cats instead. I gave up on trying to put them all back on about 25 ornaments ago. I’ll be finding them till next summer. </p> <p>When I took those pics of our kitten in the tree I scooted him out and started taking pictures again…only to see the tree still moving. I then found another cat SLEEPING in the bows of the tree. Seriously. Sleeping.</p> <p>Anyway, no good advice here. :) (Although a reader mentioned a thing you can get at the pet store that shoots a puff of air out and deters them from going under the tree – may have to try that.)</p> <p>Let’s talk about the pretty stuff now! </p> <p>I’ve always used gold and red on this tree but wanted to try something a little different this year. I’ve been thinking of trying a more “natural” look – but with a 12 foot tree there’s no way I’ll be able change it all out all in one year. So I started by adding a new color this year to see if I liked it – brown:</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0BGq-f5lklM/UrGzXJ9QrqI/AAAAAAAAjsk/M7Qytmhb64U/s1600-h/IMG_7712%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-l9p6LcAX2tI/UrGzYTKa2RI/AAAAAAAAjss/uh3ceAavgXI/IMG_7712_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="" width="500" /></a></p> <p>My sis was all, “Ewww. Brown??” And I was all, “<em>Trust</em>.” </p> <p>Honestly I wasn’t sure how it would look either. I got a container of brown bulbs at Hobby Lobby for 40 percent off and then used a few larger sparkly ones I’ve had for years. </p> <p>I stood back after we added some and actually quite loved it. It adds a kind of deepness to the tree – it’s hard to explain. It’s actually really pretty: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dyxhW2ltZDo/UrGzZUWYnII/AAAAAAAAjs0/luVjA-50338/s1600-h/IMG_7756%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-L1Nfwut64eg/UrGzako4b1I/AAAAAAAAjs8/KbJTFwJhxRE/IMG_7756_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="" width="500" /></a></p> <p>While at Hob Lob I also picked up a few packages of that tulle stuff – it’s sparkly and it comes in really wide nine foot sections. But I’ve always cut them up so they go further:  <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-F2-wwwiqcAI/UrGzbSZNQ5I/AAAAAAAAjtE/tymew5R7Nvw/s1600-h/IMG_7419%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_7419" border="0" height="333" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-P1_MrkRMQCg/UrGzco4DJUI/AAAAAAAAjtM/nSk4weHQjGc/IMG_7419_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="IMG_7419" width="500" /></a></p> <p>That way I get three nine foot sections out of each one instead of one. They are still really full and fluffy. </p> <p>OK, funny story about this monster tree. We got it a few years ago at Lowe’s – they still have it, it’s just more expensive now. I really do love the tree, it’s great quality and easy to assemble. </p> <p>Soooo, we got a 12-footer because my husband wanted to. The man could care less about everything else I do in this house, but he wanted a huge tree. HE LOVES IT. I love it too but I feel like I’m risking my life to decorate the top. So a couple years ago we’re putting it together and accidentally put the second from the bottom section of the tree on the stand first, and it still looked great. It just wasn’t quite as tall and full at the bottom. </p> <p>And when I say not as tall, I’m talking a foot shorter. But he really wanted the whole thing up so we fixed it, even though you seriously couldn’t even even tell! Fast forward to this year – my sister is helping me put the tree up since he was out of town and we did the same thing again – using the wrong bottom piece (I need to label these things) and I was kind of over it so I said let’s leave it. It’s still beautiful and tall and he won’t even notice. </p> <p>Husband gets home a couple days later, looks at the tree, goes on with his business, then later we’re heading to dinner and out of nowhere he says, “Why is the tree smaller this year?” <em>HOW?</em> Then my stepdaughter came over a few days later, looks at the tree and asks, “Why does the tree look smaller this year?” </p> <p>People. It’s still almost 12 feet tall. They <strong>both</strong> noticed. I just couldn’t <em>believe </em>they both noticed. I can’t tell to save my life. Hilarious! The man and daughter love the tall tree! </p> <p>You’ll notice my furry <strike>friend</strike> nemesis in this shot: </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MGn2pWgHzpg/UrGzdiXxkqI/AAAAAAAAjtU/iN088j_7KDI/s1600-h/IMG_7723%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="750" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FFK7zDndyP8/UrGze-pquuI/AAAAAAAAjtc/vxE0zZBQJqI/IMG_7723_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Like I said. I do love the tree, really I do. It’s huge, and it’s spectacular: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-N9RhwgNBEGY/UrGzfxkbUDI/AAAAAAAAjtk/acXqfl1pll4/s1600-h/IMG_7655%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="tall christmas tree Lowe's" border="0" height="717" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7cckYORzXiE/UrGzhEYlSMI/AAAAAAAAjts/rXzcrizeW_0/IMG_7655_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="tall christmas tree Lowe's" width="500" /></a></p> <p>We always put the “kid” tree upstairs – we have a lot of his/family ornaments on the big one too, but this tree is just dedicated to pure fun. We get a Hallmark ornament every year in <strike>July</strike> the fall: </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bk-ifZmBgrc/UrGziNZj3CI/AAAAAAAAjt0/ilxQcHkX68k/s1600-h/IMG_7735%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="hallmark ornament" border="0" height="435" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BgzheugKCJU/UrGzjD7JNHI/AAAAAAAAjt8/rQWnxfi-GSY/IMG_7735_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="hallmark ornament" width="290" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KbLVPyzmliQ/UrGzkNirP4I/AAAAAAAAjuE/95u9QzriwkA/s1600-h/IMG_7741%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="hallmark ornament" border="0" height="435" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oGgexvuVUF4/UrGzk9gEBdI/AAAAAAAAjuM/JcUWgBIuaQk/IMG_7741_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="hallmark ornament" width="290" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-F7XRitLlzTk/UrGzl_ZiETI/AAAAAAAAjuU/vnrHpEbH5no/s1600-h/IMG_7748%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="hallmark ornament" border="0" height="420" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YqoHu0WjUhI/UrGzm-iGJmI/AAAAAAAAjuc/x5hkB2qDUkw/IMG_7748_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="hallmark ornament" width="280" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-owvzUyKlnp0/UrGzn-_pHjI/AAAAAAAAjuk/s7-jMYficLs/s1600-h/IMG_7745%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="hallmark ornament" border="0" height="428" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mKc45-BvBbc/UrGzpPqKTxI/AAAAAAAAjus/ZV-NQCXO8t0/IMG_7745_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="hallmark ornament" width="285" /></a>    </p> <p align="left">That last one is my favorite – we found it this year and it’s PERFECT, since we went to Disney this year (the first trip for both my son and I). The castle is my favorite part of the park and it lights up and the fireworks go off on the ornament. It’s wonderful. :) </p> <p align="left">I’ve had a real tree every year of my life up until we got the beast a few years ago. There’s pros and cons to each one, real and fake, but overall I do like the fake for ease of use. But goodness, I missed the real tree smell. So we decided to do a (small) real one for the kiddo’s tree every year from now on. </p> <p align="left">We always go with a Frasier Fir, my absolute favorite: </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RQ4BgTjtE1s/UrGzqYc2EhI/AAAAAAAAju0/vbe6A4lwAe4/s1600-h/IMG_7645%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Frasier Fir" border="0" height="780" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PSPVqG2v2IE/UrGzrQx-Z6I/AAAAAAAAju8/RbmnX3TVu40/IMG_7645_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Frasier Fir" width="499" /></a> </p> <p align="left">Since it’s smaller I’m hoping the mess won’t be too bad. We’ll see about that. :)</p> <p align="left">Finally, I purchased a green flocked tree for our <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/search/label/basement">newly finished basement</a> last year: </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mNhmB3Kyemw/UrGzstA7UzI/AAAAAAAAjvE/N85YrCpWRPI/s1600-h/IMG_7764%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="flocked fake tree" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AROlL6Yw4uo/UrGzuAQn6rI/AAAAAAAAjvM/zlMMwtb6NIc/IMG_7764_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="flocked fake tree" width="466" /></a> </p> <p align="left">I fill it with white, blue and green ornaments and I LOVE it. I’m super happy with it – the flock doesn’t fall off like crazy and it’s just a beautiful tree overall. I got it from WalMart and I noticed they had them again earlier this year. I say it’s my favorite but they’re all my favorites, depending on my mood. :)</p> <p align="left">OK, now it’s time to see your homes/trees/decor/whatever! Everything goes this year, not just trees! Have fun and please visit and comment on a few of those linked up if you have the time. </p> <p align="left">If you are new to linky parties and would like to add a link, you’ll just want to go to the title of your blog post and “copy” it by right clicking on the title – then paste that code into the box that asks for the url. You are welcome to use my button in your post, or a link back is always appreciated. </p> <p align="left">Have a great one and enjoy! </p> <p align="left"> </p> <!-- start InLinkz script --><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=352619"></script><!-- end InLinkz script -->

Christmas Party, 2013!

Well it’s a week away! And I’ve finally started my shopping. My wallet is begging me to stop already. ;) As I mentioned yesterday, this i...

Read more »

Sheet Music Tree

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sMhsKAKqQgE/UrCLQpv6ewI/AAAAAAAABLw/zsGZAd8wkv8/s1600/sheet+music+tree3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="crafts using sheet music, sheet music decorations, sheet music" border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sMhsKAKqQgE/UrCLQpv6ewI/AAAAAAAABLw/zsGZAd8wkv8/s320/sheet+music+tree3.jpg" title="" width="160" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;" unselectable="on"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sMhsKAKqQgE/UrCLQpv6ewI/AAAAAAAABLw/zsGZAd8wkv8/s1600/sheet+music+tree3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">A quick little tutorial to make a sheet music tree! </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Take two old candle sticks, with candles.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x11gp52VVhs/UrCOeqT2UgI/AAAAAAAABMI/zGJ29_YZrJs/s1600/sheet+musc+tree4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x11gp52VVhs/UrCOeqT2UgI/AAAAAAAABMI/zGJ29_YZrJs/s320/sheet+musc+tree4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Go to  <a href="http://vintagefeedsacks.blogspot.com/search/label/Christmas">here</a> or <a href="http://thegraphicsfairy.com/free-vintage-sheet-music/">here</a> to print of sheet music for free. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sMhsKAKqQgE/UrCLQpv6ewI/AAAAAAAABLw/zsGZAd8wkv8/s1600/sheet+music+tree3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1zE4Rh_wzEU/UrCK-p0VBqI/AAAAAAAABLY/5PQSuzq7kYg/s1600/vintage+music+sheet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1zE4Rh_wzEU/UrCK-p0VBqI/AAAAAAAABLY/5PQSuzq7kYg/s320/vintage+music+sheet.jpg" width="275" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Roll the paper into a cone and tape into place. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9D2Xyz9mF8/UrCK7NztXTI/AAAAAAAABLQ/FNkNOYZvGfQ/s1600/sheet+music+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9D2Xyz9mF8/UrCK7NztXTI/AAAAAAAABLQ/FNkNOYZvGfQ/s320/sheet+music+002.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Use two pieces of sheet music, and cut the edges to make it into a tree shape.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Gather your supplies - glue gun, glitter, glass beads, anything you have on hand... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1zE4Rh_wzEU/UrCK-p0VBqI/AAAAAAAABLY/5PQSuzq7kYg/s1600/vintage+music+sheet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1IiX762NKD0/UrCLE1rNl0I/AAAAAAAABLg/Z_VUtw8hAyw/s1600/sheet+music+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1IiX762NKD0/UrCLE1rNl0I/AAAAAAAABLg/Z_VUtw8hAyw/s320/sheet+music+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Go to town and decorate your little music sheet trees. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And then pop them on top of the candle/candle sticks. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rQIVTfZT0-I/UrCLGeWK4gI/AAAAAAAABLo/QoLXY17tZ-c/s1600/sheet+music+tree1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rQIVTfZT0-I/UrCLGeWK4gI/AAAAAAAABLo/QoLXY17tZ-c/s320/sheet+music+tree1.jpg" width="274" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Have fun playing with PicMonkey. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sMhsKAKqQgE/UrCLQpv6ewI/AAAAAAAABLw/zsGZAd8wkv8/s1600/sheet+music+tree3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sMhsKAKqQgE/UrCLQpv6ewI/AAAAAAAABLw/zsGZAd8wkv8/s320/sheet+music+tree3.jpg" width="160" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Easy, fun, and free.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UCObGMW7tCc/UrCLcPD7nXI/AAAAAAAABL4/Gt0pcfJV2vU/s1600/sheet+music+tree2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UCObGMW7tCc/UrCLcPD7nXI/AAAAAAAABL4/Gt0pcfJV2vU/s320/sheet+music+tree2.jpg" width="147" /></a></div>

Sheet Music Tree

    A quick little tutorial to make a sheet music tree!   Take two old candle sticks, with candles.     Go to   here  or here to print of s...

Read more »

Party time, excellent!

<p>Hey hey! It’s about that time again! Did you think I’d forget? Pushaw. No. way. </p> <p>This is the 6th year I’ve hosted my Christmas Tree Party here on TDC – pretty cool right? Kind of crazy. </p> <p>This year I’m changing it up a bit – pretty much anything goes. Well, Christmas-related anyway. It’s still a tree party, but if there’s a picture of a Christmas tree in the post, it’s good. Got a tree in your front yard? You’re golden. Like trees? Well, then join in. <strong>All </strong>holiday decor is welcome. :)</p> <p>For those just looking, you can sock away ideas for next year (<em>helloooo</em> Pinterest!) or maybe implement something fun before the holiday. </p> <p>Here’s the graphic you can use in your post if you’d like:  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QGNWH1AdWjA/UrBrf2I7RyI/AAAAAAAAjqE/xGXSR-F_384/s1600-h/treeparty20134.jpg"><img alt="Christmas Tree party, Thrifty Decor Chick" border="0" height="375" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9vdo9lsg4PQ/UrBrhYwt5QI/AAAAAAAAjqI/ZRTOFpSasiw/treeparty2013_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="Christmas Tree party, Thrifty Decor Chick" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I will do my best to have the post up by 11 a.m. EST. If you’d like to reminisce till then, you can see the 2008 party <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2008/12/its-christmas-tree-par-tay.html">here</a>, 2009 <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2009/12/christmas-tree-party.html">here</a>, <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2010/12/its-christmas-tree-party.html">2010</a>, <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/12/christmas-tree-party.html">2011</a> and then last year’s <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-tree-party-2012.html">here</a>. </p> <p>For those of you new to a blogland “party” – it’s simply a way for bloggers to link up their projects and ideas in one spot. So you’ll have a bunch of beautiful pics to check out. Plan some free time – it sucks you in. If you’re a new blogger I’ll explain a little more on linking up tomorrow. </p> <p>And I’ve updated all the links to the Christmas Tour of Homes too: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1YGfIEz7Vg0/UrBri_n_S8I/AAAAAAAAjqU/2sfGYaC5738/s1600-h/BloggerChristmasTour13.jpg"><img alt="blogger Christmas tour" border="0" height="350" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--EfjgPUyA-0/UrBrkIGe7MI/AAAAAAAAjqc/w4BCejZEh0s/BloggerChristmasTour1_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="blogger Christmas tour" width="350" /></a>You can see all of those beautiful homes at the end of the post <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-home-tour.html">here</a>! </p> <p>Hope to see you back here tomorrow! :)  </p>

Party time, excellent!

Hey hey! It’s about that time again! Did you think I’d forget? Pushaw. No. way. This is the 6th year I’ve hosted my Christmas Tree Party h...

Read more »