b3 Home Designs

DIY Milk Glass

2011-08-07T16:34:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So, you ask
"Why are you giving away all your milk glass"

Well. If you read this post,
you can get in on the giveaway
and read about why I've moved on.

BUT, if you read the WHOLE post
you'll see I didn't move on completely.

I kept a few pieces
(and in the process, decided what kind I REALLY want to collect)

and I experimented with making faux milk glass
and for my purposes
it works fine and is awesome

after the trial and error of course.

So I started with these

Bright Idea | DIY Expert: Super sized Runner (Found on the Internets)

2011-07-24T00:21:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

I so need a long runner for my entry hallway.

By long, I think 21 feet should do it.

Considering most off the shelf runners come 7 ft long

And cost about $60 - $130 each.

I definitely needed to research a DIY option.

This woman is genius. [blog post link]
She knocked off the above rug.
With a piece of canvas, some rug non-skid and some fabric.
Well...and some adhesive spray and a sewing machine.

Only because there are lots of parts and patience and a sewing machine involved is this expert.
If you're handy with a sewing machine or don't think hand stitching is eye gougingly slow...
then this is probably maybe just advanced for you (budget to buy all that other stuff)

But if you buy your fabric from here [link]
and you buy canvas at Jo's with a coupon
and you find a rug stop skid somewhere...

This could totally hit the medium.
Especially if you are NOT making a 21 foot runner.
Just saying.
That's a LOT of straight stitching to make happen.

Anyhow, here are some of the awesome fabric patterns I'm considering:

[pictures]

And since most are about $6.50 a yard (or so), I can knock out a runner for probably about the price of one...ir not less than.

We'll let you know. Since this is still just a bright idea because, well, I have no sewing machine (yet)
And I want to use coupons to get supplies to make it as cheap as possible.
I know.

Awesome thought that counts.
Which fabric do you think I should go with?
I'll choose one commenter as the winner of a gift certificate [fabric store GC? or Jo's] for $50.
That's a lot of fabric.
Get your comment on!

I miss you - come stalk me again please

2011-05-08T15:17:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Rather than spending all your time
bemoaning how you wish I would update
with more fantastic DIY here

why don't you come visit me at B3HD Part II

I just can't quit you blogger.

But with a new account,
here's hoping I don't run out of photo space
for another 5 years.

I'm sure they'll figure it out and link the blogs
sooner rather than later.

But let's try it.

Here's what you'll get a peak at
over at B3HD

Can't wait to see you there.

The time has come

2010-09-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

I need your help.
Stat!

Aside from ya'll needing to sign up as followers
because we only need 7 more followers to give up
the milk glass collections to some lucky winners
(tell your friends, your mamas...anyone to sign up)

I ALSO need your help in a major decision.

For 5 years (or so) I've been an avid blogger/blogspot user.
I don't like change.
I want to stay put.

BUT.
You see, I have a blog
That needs to have photos on it

And Blogger doesn't allow me to upload anymore photos
And it isn't fun to keep blogging about the same photos already on my blog

So I moved to Wordpress
which you can find at http://www.b3homedesigns.wordpress.com/
in preparation to self host my own blog in the long run

Wordpress is a bit of a learning curve for me.
I like being able to upload photos.
Super easy.

I don't like having to google (or bing) every little step of the way
how to make something happen on WordPress
Without paying for it.

Not on the nickle and dime kick
which is why I love Blogger
But 5 years later, I guess you get what you pay for.

I knew I would run out of photo space
and had come to peace with the day I'd have to pay for more storage.
But that's not the case here.

I'm not even getting that option.
Just a bunch of server errors and you can't do that.
And I hate being told what I cannot do
Almost as much as a I hate no photo posts on a blog
that is pretty much about photos.

So now you get to decide.
http://www.b3homedesigns.blogspot.com/
http://www.b3homedesigns.wordpress.com/

which do you prefer?
Leave me a comment (or two)
telling me which one
and why you like it

who knows, maybe I'll get a clue
and be able to add your likes from one site
over to the other

Looking forward to your thoughts.
I have a billion blogs I need to transfer out of bloglines
before October 1 now.

Can you tell my whole world is about upside down
with all this changey stuff going on?

I know huh. I think it makes more sense for me to go watch
some Housewives of DC instead too.

b

In the forest | a Wood Collection

2010-09-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

As you know, I'm a girl who collects things.

In my super neutral/natural home, glass, wood, shell, stone and silver steal the day.
And anything naturalish.
I love wood.
There's no doubt about that.

As always, all photos (c) b3 home designs

Awesome.

I know.

When I get back in with a camera,

I'll do a photo shoot that does justice

to just how much wood we REALLY

have about this place.

i collect vol. 5: small clocks

2010-09-18T06:00:00.001-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

One of my favorite,

fastest growing

collections

is small clocks

and vintage alarm clocks

none of them are set

(because, that would be too practical)

but they all work

functional dysfunction

gotta love it.

As always

all photos (c) b3 home designs

Fall House Prep | Him

2010-09-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

I am a fairly independent woman.

Okay.

Who am I kidding.

I have a garage full of power tools

that I say thanks and no thanks to.

but this dude

he loves him some power

especially when it comes to fall house prep.

Scrubbing down the outters

and taming up the lawn

if it has a motor,

he'll get it done.

Happy seasonal shift to you all!

power washing the deck

photo (c) b3 home designs

mowing/mulching down the lawn for reseeding

photo (c) b3 home designs

What "around the house" chores

do you enjoy delegating out to others?

Two Summers, One Fall: Growing Pains

2010-09-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

When we first moved in here
a year ago
we moved into a place with
lush views
so long as you didn't
gaze into our immediate back yard

and so long as you didn't gaze

upon our side yard

and definitely, you should not look over

to the 8th hole

from our yard

But I actually have a pretty sizeable
green thumb
I stick it in the ground
and it usually grows
no matter how hard
I try to kill it

I'll need to post another photo
of what that side garden
looks like in the fall
after the deer have nibbled on it some

live and learn

What I did learn is that most of my yard/garden
is a fall garden
as evidenced by the gorgeousness
in my yard right now
the above photo, is one of the rare species in my yard
that DID flower this summer

I love basil like no other
and was super happy to learn that
basil loves my kitchen window sill

Those peppers.
they were bought about 19 bazillion years ago
on clearance
in the orgo section
I've cared for them lovingly
and that is probably why they have said
thanks, but no thanks.
That, or, a little bit of research
to understand that peppers
are long season plants
and this impatient gardener
needs to simmer down already
(FYI, i FINALLY saw baby peppers on the vines)

Here's to fall harvest time
and planting and plotting for spring
which will be here just as quickly
as fall snuck up on us

Happy harvest season!

Instant Art Collection: Free use photos

2010-09-15T06:00:00.001-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

I LOVE taking pictures

of everyday stuff

Feel free to download/copy + save

any of the photos in this post

Frame them up

(yes, I'm that full of myself)

and call it art.

Show me how you use it and I'll do a follow up feature

Enjoy the seasons change!

Campus side Fall

Seattle University

photo by b.merikle

Two craggly guards

Palm Springs, CA

Photo by b. merikle

Stuck between a rock and a soft place

Mt. Rainier Wonderland Trail

photo by b. merikle

Desert Camouflage

New Mexico i10 Rest Stop

photo by b. merikle

In Rainier's Shadow

Flight photo of Mt. Rainier w/Mt. St. Helen's in background

photo by b. merikle

Tulips Awash

La Conner, WA Tulip Festival

photo by b. merikle

Sunshine Market Day

Pike Place Market, Seattle

photo by b.merikle

Lonely Sunset

Cannon Beach, OR

Photo by b.merikle

Going Down

Cannon Beach, OR

photo by b.merikle

Enjoy!

If you need larger resolution, and are patient

send me an email

(via the contact page - in the upper left menu of the blog)

Best estate sale ever

2010-09-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Usually, when I think of estate sales

I think sadness

Some one passing

who has collected their whole lives

and there is no one left

who would love on what they have

for free

Enter estate sales

and the vultures

(like me)

who will pay no where near

what the person valued their treasures at

just so that it can be taken away

hopefully

to another loving home

to start a collection anew

When I came across a Craigslist ad

that was a tiny bit false advertising

because they said everything was 90% off

and the title was like "Free Stuff, come get it"

I got over the tiny bit of dissapointment

as I took some time to scan through

the stuff

Inside the house, only a couple of gets.

But outside in the yard...

THAT was where the action was at.

Check out my great gets

from the great

"Moving to Florida, Young Folks Estate Sale"

in Issaquah this past July.

African Ceremonies Cloth Bound dual set

great estate sale 2010

$15 for the set

This was the best find of my life.

And I almost left it behind

Thank goodness for that false advertising ad

on Craigslist

so that I could email them and beg them to hold them for me.

That dual set is awesome.

Beyond awesome

Best bookset I ever bought

They are a coffee table set

of VIVID photographs

of African Ceremonies.

Just GORGEOUS photography.

We haggled for a good hour on those.

She wanted $30.

I wanted to give her $30

(aka, my lunch money for the week)

for EVERYTHING

on my pile

Which was a lot.

She finally agreed to do it all

for $35

I left her $7 and went to get my cash

Came back

loaded up the car

and took everything

EXCEPT for the books.

Got all the way home that night

Unpacked everything

(thank GOODNESS since I usually

leave it all in the car

for weeks on end)

Truly broke into tears

when I didn't see the books

Went online, searched for the sale

sent them a message

Loved the fact that in the PNW

everyone is friendly enough

to tell you their name

especially if you spend 2 hours

in their front yard

and put out a personal plea for the books

Thought she had a change of heart and pulled them back

Come to find out I was just forgetful

(what else is new)

and left them by the door

AND they got back to me super quick.

I can only hope to be that organized

(and still connected to the internet)

day before the next time I make a move.

Just a mere peek at the rest of the awesome

I picked up at that sale

Wood ladder | great estate 2010 sale

free (!)

Sears Vintage Orange Ten Key

great estate 2010 sale

free (!)

Hacks Lemon Drops and Barnum's Animal Crackers

Vintage tins

great estate 2010 sale | $3.00 for set

As always, all photos (c) b3 home designs.

Nothing but awesome vintageness.

Lots more that I got from this sale

that isn't pictured here

including fantastic shutters

the BEST little yellow waste bin

for my scrap room redo

some glass goods

some linen goods

and various other odds and ends

It was a two loader

(well, three if you count having to go back for the books)

Awesomeness and I wish my mom was here

in Seattle

so that she could go thrifting with me

She has a GREAT eye for this stuff

Now that we're all gainfully employed again

maybe we can get that world domination plan

back on track.

Freecycle Get of the Week

2010-09-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Don't think I should be running out of paint

gloss, or finishes this year.

I love Freecycle.

Free stuff

And lots of it.

My latest fave find

(aside from the table in the background)

was all this painterly goodness

All photos (c) b3 home designs

What have you found on someone's porch or in their driveway

for free lately?

i collect vol. 4: Vintage Board Games | Pieces

2010-09-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

i collect vintage board games

but primarily just so that I can have their pieces

and score keeping pads

and colorful cards

I love vintage paper goods.

All photos (c) b3 home designs.

What is it that you collect?

Seafan Found and Lost

2010-09-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

I searched high and low

for sea fans

and found them for cheap(ish)

at my fave store in the world

TJ Maxx.

Then, I left them on my table,

in my room

with the door open.

This is now what my sea fans look like:

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Pretty, in my jar
Bitter that they now FIT in said jar.

This is what

3 large, great find

sea fans look like

after your puppy tests out

their chew factor.

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Sigh.

Yes.

A big sigh in sync with

my puppy mutt's big puppy sighs.

Second Hand Christmas in July

2010-09-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

This July,

I found all sorts of great pieces

for Holiday time that will arrive

not soon enough.

All thrifty, fun finds at that.

I found these super sized ornaments

that I will use for some outdoor decor

off of my back porch

for 17 cents each at a 90% off

Christmas in July sale

at St. Vincent's de Paul

Super sized ornaments | Christmas in July

Salvation Army Find, 8 ornaments at 17 cents each

Photo (c) b3 home designs

This next find

was actually a garage sale

that I almost didn't stop at

I actually kind of felt guilty about this purchase

because the guy seemed like he took a few things

out of his home

to sell

so that he'd have bus fair.

Everything was from his Holiday stash.

I saw this pile of two different kinds

of light up candy canes.

Last year, we were going to make some wooden canes.

Now, we can use these light up ones.

I asked the guy how much

and he told me $2. I thought he meant for each cane.

I asked "for all of them"

and when he said yes, I was so surprised,

I asked if he meant yes for ALL of them.

And he did.

So about two dozen canes to stake into the ground

and light up.

Awesome.

$2 Yard Sale Light up Candy Canes

Photo (c) b3 home designs

My last and absolute best find
was this (and the other half).
Aside from yard sales and thrift stores
I also love Freecycle and found on road side.

I don't find much on my road sides.
But I do find much on Freecycle.
In July, I answered the call for this 9 ft tall
faux tree.
And it was free
and it barely fit in my trunk.

And I can't wait to try to hang it upside down.

Free Roadside 9 ft Faux tree

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Christmas in July was awesome.

I can't wait for the first snowfall this year.

Okay.

I can.

Thought of the Day

2010-09-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

I knew I was home

when we set foot in this house

and one of the million and one

brochures left in my kitchen drawer

was this one

right on top

Life IS too short to clean your own house

Photo (c) b3 home designs

I really DO need to clean though

so that I can purge and give away more stuff.

i used to collect | Milk Glass

2010-09-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

if you hit the internets,

then you know that
in the world of "new vintage collectors"
(ie, all of us wannabe vintage collectors
that don't have a CLUE)
milk glass is all the rage.

I get it.

It's (generally) cute
just like my awesome lamp find

$3 milk glass deep lipped lamp

Photo (c) b3 home designs

it is really easy to find
it is a relatively inexpensive collection to start
but it quickly gets pretty pricey
and pretty hard
to sustain

well

maybe that is only "hard"
for those of us not willing
to spend big
or go on the hunt for
our collections.

I admit it.

I bit the bug
and I went and bought me some milk glass
and because I don't ever just buy 1 of anything
I bought a piece.
or two
or nine

Milk Glass Starter Collection

Photo (c) b3 home designs

not all at once.

it started with a set of three
from the North Bend Senior Thrift Store Sale
Then I picked up a few more pieces
And a piece here
And a piece there

Honestly though?
I'm not really a fan.

I used to collect Milk glass

and I will keep these pieces because I love them
for non milk glass reasons

Thinned out milk glass collection

Photo (c) b3 home designs

I'll also keep the milk glass lamp.

I used to collect milk glass.
Now I don't.

But perhaps you do?
Or you want to?
Or you just love winning stuff?

I'm giving away my milk glass collection in two batches.

One batch will be a follower.
If you scroll over to the right ------------------->
and add yourself to the followers
then leave a comment on this post
telling me that you are a follower
you will be entered into the drawing for that batch.
The second batch is for anyone or their mama
and yes, mama's LOVE these pieces

so call it early Christmas shopping
or even earlier mama's day or Easter shopping
All you have to do is leave a comment on this post

If you are a follower, you can enter both giveaways

just leave separate comments

The giveaway will go on until I hit 50 followers.
I am at 25 last time I checked.

I will announce winners

during the first post after I hit 50 followers
You can check in daily and leave a comment
(on this post) to earn extra entries
for each set of milk glass.

Lather. Rinse. Repeat.

And if you REALLY want some milk glass

Send your friends here
have them sign up as followers
have them leave a comment that says
"I am now a follower thanks to [insert YOUR name here]"
I will enter the friend and I'll add an extra entry for you.
nice.

just so that you don't have to dump your bff
when she wins the milk glass you really wanted.

let the comments and following begin.

Coming Soon:

Make your own faux milk glass

i collect vol. 3: Colorful | Shapely Glass

2010-09-08T06:01:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

I love collecting things.

Primarily because it means spending money.

And preferably, the least of it as possible for most collections.

One of my fave collections lately, is of some shapely and/or colorfull glass.

And it all has to come thrifted.

So even when I see these awesome shapely hourglass hurricanes from West Elm:

I have to practice some serious self restraint.Oy
So here is some of my shapely | colorful glass collection:

6 inch aqua mason jars

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Cloche

Photo (c) b3 home designs

3 inch apple measuring | serving dishes

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Full sized Atlas Mason jars

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Fishing Float glass jar

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Cobalt blue bottle | cobalt blue bubble glass pedestal dish

Photo (c) b3 home designs

flower vases

Photo (c) b3 home designs

quilted glass vases

Photo (c) b3 home designs

italian wine bottles

Photo (c) b3 home designs

vintage spray mister

tall skinny, short and medium squat lipped jars

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Everytime I stop into a thrift store, the first area I hit is the glass wall.
Sometimes I find great stuff among the dishes
Sometimes it is with the vases
But sometimes, you just need to dig for it.

Happy collecting.

This is a pretty easy collection to start and doesn't really require a ton of creativity or patience.
If you have several thrift stores to choose from.
I've only been collecting earnestly for a few weeks.
Just keep your eyes peeled and a bit of cash on hand
My whole collection (including tons of pieces NOT shown)
Has cost about $40 so far.
All collected a piece (or three) at a time.

Great Plans - A nooky closet

2010-09-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Honestly, the walk in closet in my scrap room

is more than enough space
for all the scrapping I do lately
So I am going to take this space

Largest Guest Bedroom walk in closet

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And use these shelves

that I got for 7 drops of blood, 4 tears, a gallon of sweat
and 19 splinters
(aka, free – only if I took them off the wall)
off of Craigslist

Craigslist Shelves

Photo from www.craigslist.org

and use some leftover paint
from elsewhere in my home
to coordinate - not matchy matchy
but bring this wall onto the same color spectrum
as the rest of my home

Seriously.

Who DOES THIS to a perfectly good wall?

Scrap room energy suck wall

Photo (c) b3 home designs

With a ton of awesome vintage accessories

and storage
to bring back the artistic creative juices

Crafty space in a clean moment

wishing for some contact

Photo (c) b3 home designs

and finally have some material to update

this blog with.
Wish me luck.

The Pacific Gallery Annual Flea Market

2010-09-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

If you ever click on those fantastic icons
to the right
in the toolbar,
you might have noticed
in the calendar link
that I went to the Pacific Gallery Annual Flea Market this year

With $50 in my pocket
and my huge camera strapped to my side
I entered the parking lot
of the Pacific Gallery Auction House
and at first, my smiley face did a big old
upside down maneuver.

I was expecting more than this

Pacific Gallery Auction House

Annual Flea Market | Seattle | 2010

Photo (c) b3 home designs

To be fair

it was probably about the hottest day of the summer

and I arrived late in the day

(on purpose, not on CPT)

because I wanted dealers to be hot and bothered

and pissed that no one was venturing out onto

an asphalt baking field

to buy their wares

And it worked.

That OR

I need to hit Pac Gal auctions

because these dealers are CHEAP!

I've been to the Antique gallery before

and they had some good gets

but all were just beyond "good deals"

for me.

Not expensive, so if there was a
"have to have" piece for a collection,

I'd go here and look for it.

But for a browse and especially a flea,

I was not optimistic.

This is what I left with after 45 minutes

Pacific Gallery Annual Flea Stash of Goodies

Seattle | Summer | 2010

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Let's get a little closer shall we?

I picked up this awesome piece for $2.

I used to have one of these,

and I gave it to my mom

during her African | Tribal collecting days

This was the last piece of the day I picked up.
The dealer was so hot and flustered,
she almost paid me to take it off her hands.
Tried to tell me how broken and busted it was.
Tried to sell it for $7.
I asked her what her best price was.
She said "how about $5?"
I didn't say a word.
She said "Okay...how about $4?"
I kept pulling out arrows and examining them.
She said "Tell you what, give me $2 and don't make me pack it"
I started putting the arrows back in their holder.
Still have not said a word.
Put my hands in my pockets (actually to get her the cash)
and she said
"Can I pay you a dollar to take it?"
This is where I started laughing with her and said I'd give her $2

Say hello to my lovely bow and arrow set
which goes so very perfectly with this basket
on the opposite wall of my Native Americana postcards
in my downstairs powder room

$2 Bow and Arrow Set

Pac Gal Annual Flea | Seattle | Summer 2010

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Then there was this lady.

Who reminded me a little of my grandmother

who had the BEST stash of goods anytime she went and sold at a flea

but I digress.

This lady was VERY hot and bothered and ready to pack

She professed to have only the finest things

and was disappointed this was advertised as a flea

because only people looking for cheap goods at

cheap prices were out to shop.

I wanted to say "yeah, what's your point?"

when I spied

(with my REAL eye)

a little box

that was stamped up all over

and a little heavy to lift

I picked it up

knowing what would greet me

from a peek under the lid

and saw a $12 price tag on the handle

I almost (almost)

thought to myself that I would pay that.

before considering if I would really pay half that

to walk away with this beauty.

I asked her what her best price was

She was so delirious she started

to tell me about a cartoon

that I was too young to know about

and how that was a collector piece I was holding.

Then she saw the puzzled look on my face

and the ACTUAL box I was holding

and said "oh. that."

How about you give me $8.

I said, "How about $5?"

She said give me $6 and take it.

I gave her six and announced that I had $4 left

to her partner in crime in the next booth

who was trying mightily to get this big spender

to come on over.

As she packed it up she asked what price she had on it

and lamented that I got it for "hot off" - similar to "half off"

but all the better with the heat.

All is well in office supply land.

$6 (BIG!) Pullman Numberer

Pac Gal Annual Flea Market | Seattle | Summer 2010

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Right after I bought the green metal bin (with key) for $5 from a yard saler

who was moving and just getting rid of stuff,

I went next door and bought

2 dozen sand dollars for $3

thank you very much Pottery Barn.

But after the Sand Dollar lady, I crossed the aisle and just about fell out.

I saw the sign that said these beauties were $2 - $4 each.

I gathered up these three small ones

and asked how much.

They were all of the $2 variety.

I didn't even haggle with the dude because I wanted them

That. Much.

$6 for 3, 6 in aqua colored mason jars

Pac Gal Annual Flea Market | Seattle | Summer 2010

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And that was JUST BEFORE

I spied the find of a lifetime.

That I would have returned everything for

and dropped all $50 of my dollars on

because finding these has been that elusive for me

and this one.

she cost me all of $8

$8 sturdy/heavy model sailboat

Pac Gal Annual Flea | Seattle | Summer 2010

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Absolutely.

I will be back next year.

And this year

I will probably even try

attending an auction

or two.

Love me a good flea market.

Wish I was back in El Paso for flea markets there.

Why I hate blogger (with Picassa)

2010-09-04T17:25:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So. Evidently.

If you edit your photos with Picassa
and then try to upload those pretties here
***Edited to add | evidently, it isn't just Picassa. Fantastic ***

Blogger greets you with a big old
"server rejection" note for all the lovely pictures
you try to upload.

A home decor blog with no pictures.
Well, you might as well read my regular blog
http://www.coloredwhite.blogspot.com/

Seriously.
Because I got peeps in town
and no time to sit up for another 3 hours
editing photos in a real photo editor

Man.

Used to swear by blogger
and picassa

now hate them both.
And will follow the techier Mr. Handy's advice
and move to self hosting sooner
rather than later

Which for me, also meant moving over to WordPress.
Nothing like a
"let's sit down and knock out a quick post" moment
to get you off your butt and moving.

Sigh.
Love to you all.

I have a scheduled post or two still in the cue.
but with school starting
(I work for a school district,
no I'm not a teacher,
no I don't have kids,
more on that at Colored White)
I won't be getting to all the switcharooamagiging
anytime soon.

Alas.
Sigh.

Blogger.
How could you.

Much love to you all
Please check in daily in the hopes
that my "significant traffic"
will make this a priority issue
for the blogger powers that be.

by the looks of the help answers
not. so. much.

If you're worried, no, I don't write like this
at Colored White.

If you like this,
then yes I do write like this at Colored White (smile).

If you would rather just check out a random day in my life
http://www.shotsfired.blogspot.com/
is more your pace.
Less talk, more visual.

And if you want to see how crafty I was
before the home decor
and before all hellfire and brimstone
spewed forth from the earth,
you can check me out at
http://www.b3designs.blogspot.com/ (note, there is no "home" there).
I was the original b3 in case you're curious.

And yes, I really do have 4 blogs.
This past month was all about home
And so it will be going forward
Just a little reading material for the impatient
and curious.

Much love.
Thanks for hanging in there.

b3

Every Nook and Cranny | A Temporary Reader

2010-09-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

One of the things I love about our place

is that there is so much space

that can be used in so many different ways

because walls don’t define what has to be

take for instance the landing at the top of our stairs

Upper Landing Blank Slate

Photo (c) b3 home designs

that I turned into this pretty space

Upstairs Landing Complete

Photo (c) b3 home designs

In this little nook,

I brought in just about all of my favorite things

After we got puppy dog,

the Paupasan chair got moved to the nook.

out of our bedroom

I love it here because

it is far more comfortable to hang out

in this chair and read

than to sit in a parson’s char.

Just saying

Another fave piece in this space is the pillow on the chair.

I actually bought that pillow cover years ago

When I lived in New Mexico

I bought it at a Pow Wow.

The same Pow Wow that I bought my postcard prints at

But not the same place I bought these calendar prints at

Close up, Calendar Prints

Photo (c) b3 home designs

I LOVE Native Americana.

Reminds me of my grandmother

and all the questions I really wish I would have asked her

Other pieces of love in this area include

Parts of my mini | small clock collection

My favorite wedding headshot photo

My vintage camera collection

Lots of my fave coffee table books

Journals

Small chest

And those awesome Crate & Barrel Leaning shelves

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Other pieces of me that really make this home:

Those billowy, worn, old, green curtains

“&;” (because there is always an “and did you think about…”)

Wood cubby box

Part of my shapely glass collection

My three favorite ceramic vases

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And if you stepped back a littl
you would see the $16 Art Binge

I “finished” the space at this

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Some closer looks
at what I love here
include this tray of awesome

The heart rock was from
one of the most awesome
beach trips
with him
ever

The shell was collected YEARS ago
the awesome bell | chime
was given to me by my mom
back when I was in high school
after one of her yard sale stops

Photo (c) b3 home designs

The piece of ocean rock on this shelf

was from the first trip I took to California
with that guy

The clock is the first small clock I ever bought.

It touched off an awesome collection.

Photo (c) b3 home designs

This is a closeup of part of my most favorite

part of my shapely glass collection

There’s a mister

There is a tall skinny

There is a squat, fat shorty

And there is a little shorty

Those bottles rock my world.

Photo (c) b3 home designs

This whole space rocks my world.
Now if I could only get more time
to plug in and blog
or unplug and read a book

Can’t wait to be home
for more than a few hours
at a time.

Upstairs Landing Final(ish)

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Newbie DIYer = White Sofa Table

2010-09-03T03:28:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

We love Craigslist around here

I think The Handy One
might actually have an addiction to it

I mean who doesn’t love free or really cheap right?

Back at our old place,
we needed some surface area
to set a beverage or two upon
so we got not one
but two of those tables that no one bought after the 60's

I believe that one of them was even free

For the longest time

in current living room

we placed them next to each other

right behind our sofa

on the way into the kitchen

kind of a divider

but not

I knew I wanted to paint them both

to unify their look

but then, I thought simpler would be better

and I decided to keep only one of the tables

behind my sofa like this

Kitchen to dining room

Photo (c) b3 home designs

perfectly aligned with the

entertainment wall of awesome built in speakers

that The Handy One created

Wall of speakers

Photo (c) b3 home designs

So I painted that table

to match the wall of speakers

Not that black and white and gray

are all that grace my world
But I do have to say that my new white table
looks absolutely awesome looking out
across to my great wall of speakers.

Finished sofa table and speakers

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Yes.

That is a political ad.

It must be election season.

Eyeball Wall Hanging

2010-08-30T04:32:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Okay.

So I'm not really going to hang eyeballs

on the wall.

Not anytime soon at least.

BUT.

I do have top down honeycombs

on most of my windows.

Here is what my dining room looks like

Note the fall table setting (smile).

Pinehurst Dining Room

Photo (c) b3 home designs

By now, we all know

that I'm a pretty lazy DIYer

Okay.

Not "lazy"

Just crunched for time

and always looking for a shortcut

So here's my latest shortcut

for hanging similar items evenly

on either side of a window.

Start with your blinds pulled all the way up

(note: they don't have to be top downs,

i used the bottom edge to do my eyeballing)

I pulled my blinds down about 6 inches

and used the bottom edge of the blinds

to be the top edge of the paper cut out

of my piece that i was hanging

Tacked the paper to the wall

on each side of the window

like this:

blind eyeballing wall hanging prep

step 1 and 2

Photo (c) b3 home designs

I pulled the blinds down some more
remember, I just eyeballed this
so no idea how many inches.

I was hanging three on each side,
so I just pulled the blinds down
about halfway down the window

More eyeballing

Step 3 and 4

Photo (c) b3 home designs

After the halfway pull
I pulled them down again
about 6 - 8 inches
again, eyeball it

Steps 5 and 6

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Voila.

If instead of just using flat tacks
you actually use smallhead nails you will use
to hang your art,
you can actually pull your paper placeholders
right off the wall
and the nails will pull right through the paper

And if you just throw your art down on a bit
of butcher block paper
and trace the outter edge
you'll have paper placeholders for your art
that you can tape up
before you knock a billion holes into your wall

Just saying.

Happy crafting
and don't forget
to check out this post on
how to make what I hung up

Mod Podged Bird Plates

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Yeah for mod podge!

Show some link love at:

Get Your Craft on w/ Today's Creative Blog

Vase Filler Peace Signs (aka Just buy them already)

2010-08-26T02:51:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So it has been a while since I've had a project fail

What...2 hours or so?

It was only fitting that my most recent fail
would come on something as labor intensive as replicating these

Pottery Barn miniature glittered peace signs | Vase Filler

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Now to be fair

this wasn't a complete fail

just a bit more of my perfectionist tendencies

tied to my lack of patience.

I gathered my supplies

Peace Sign Vase Filler Hack supplies

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And then I did what I do best
as you well know from this post
I still don't have a cricuit
and yes, I'm still trying to win one
so be sure to link me up if you're giving one away on your blog.

But I digress.
I went about cutting each of those tiny peace signs out by hand.

Handcutting mini peace signs. Still wish I had a cricuit.

Or any kind of cutter that would do this for me

Even a punch would do right about now

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Then I glittered them up

Hand glittering mini peace sign vase filler

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And they turned out like this

Drying vase filler peace signs

Photo (c) b3 home designs

not wild about them.

loved the concept of having them in red

and not paying what I'm sure was like $20

for a tiny box of these

okay (maybe 12.50)

Probably will go back and glitter a second layer

after I get over the bitter dissapointment

that it would be a very tiny vase at this rate

of creation

that I would be able to fill if I kept at it like this

Instead, I will likely do the large sized signs

I saw hanging on their trees last year.

I can totally do that.

here's the printout I used to cut the peace signs.

have at it

Printable peace sign template

have at it

Photo from PB online catalog

Coolest project ever accomplished.

Anyhow, until then...

Linked up over at

Pillow Talk, Secondhand style

2010-08-26T02:04:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Continuing the week of all things fantastically Pottery Barnesque, enter the lovely outdoor bodyroll striped beauties.

Now.
I love stripes like the next girl
and those "my hubby is gone, I need something to spoon" pillows
well.
they rock.

So when I walked into the Burien Salvation Army and I spied this

Body Roll Pillow

Thirfty Find at Salvation Army, Burien

Photo (c) b3 home designs

You know I near about knocked a poor child over scrambling over to pick this bad boy up.

The best part of this super easy project was that there were already lines stitched into the pillow.
I thought for half a second to use a fabric solution with my paint
or to unzip and remove the pillow form

I did neither of those
and still love how it turned out

Soon as I get more ink for my printer, I'm going to cut out some fantastic stencil numbers
to do up the ends of the pillow.

For now,
here's the step by step

Choose your paint

Vast choices of yellow narrowed to 3

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Narrowed down selection of paint - from about a zillion yellow choices.
The winner! Straw Ceramcoat by Delta.
Whatevs
Not like I wanted people laying their
icky heads on THIS pillow anyhow

Tape off some thin stripes
and of course some thick stripes
mix it up to give it your own flavor

Blue taped and ready to go

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Make sure your edges are down to prevent paint bleed!
I'm just saying...

Pour out some paint and use a sponge brush to get to painting.

PB Pillow in process

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Then peel off your tape

Pillow tape comes off

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And marvel at your work.

Home Sweet Home | MIL Suite

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Happy living!

You just read about an award winning project:

Top Ten
August 24th
Pottery Barn Challenge
at the CSI Project
*****

Pottery Barn Wine Wraps

2010-08-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So I'm flipping through the PB catalog
because, as we've now established
this is what I do.
for fun.

I come across a wine cubby, with wrapped wine.

Now get real.

The piece is GORGEOUS

And no, I'm not going to hack that for you

because really, if you want PB furniture

you should buy PB furniture.

At an outlet if you can

of course.

But you know the drill by now.

Look close.

Closer.

Yes, at the tasty adult beverages shelved in this piece.

Specifically, you see how many of them are wrapped up?

I imagine, they are wrapped something like this

Wrapped Wine Bottles with a purpose

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Let me tell you why this is one of the few "non-sale" items

at Pottery Barn

That I adore

See. most of the time

PB's designers do the most impractical things

But this here, is genuis

Before we moved, we owned a lot of wine.

Probably too much.

Not a cellar full or anything

but enough that even after we "whittled" our stash

(aka, drunk it up)

we still had to store wine during our move

You know

the move this time last year

when it was a bajillion degrees in Seattle?

And we didn't have a temp controlled storage facility

And so while we got to go and jump in a lake

(literally, we jumped in Lake Washington)

our wine, not so much.

So what we had

for the longest

was a really ghetto fabulous way

of noting

"this wine is probably not suitable for human consumption"

And we only started labeling that "stored wine" that way

after we drank about 10 bottles and just couldn't stomach anymore of it.

so it looked like this

wine tucked away in a cupboard so people can't see

the ghetto fabulous duct tape

and the puppy can't get to it

supposedly

photo (c) b3 home designs

So I broke out my supplies

Which I had on hand from the JLS Auction last year

Yeah.

That auction, where I rocked the wall of wine

and even finagled a Provisional of the Year award for my wine wrapping prowess

and I only mention this, so that you know I'm an expert

at wrapping wine

and that is probably why I think this project

is a practical way to prettily display wine that I hope none of my guests

ever drink

Consider yourself warned.
Supplies

Tissue paper, tape, hemp cord. I really didn't use the scissors

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And then the method to the madness

is pretty simple, therapeutic and, well, fun.

Lay the bottle on the paper

Fold down the first flap over the top half of the bottle

Fold up the bottom half of the paper.

Tape halves together.

Roll bottle across tissue tucking the bottom edge in

and the top edge as well.

Wring the neck of the papered bottle

Scrunch it all together right there.

Tie hemp cord around the scrunched neck.

Double tie it in a knot

Voila!
No, I didn't label my bottles
I like surprises that way.

Wrapped wine and cheese

Photo (c) b3 home designs

I love how these turned out.

Stored wine intermixed with house warming wine

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Almost as much as I love that ladder.
Almost.

This is one of the most practical PB ideas I've come across in a while.
It is easy to point out which bottles should be a last resort
and only consumed when the earth stands still
but still provides an elegant way to fill up my small wine rack
and get my bottles out of the cupboard.

Photos added back to wine cupboard

Photo (c) b3 home designs

only problem with that scheme?
I do still have a puppy.
So the wine bottles DO still reside 95% of the time in the cabinet
And the ladder resides in the garage
She does love to gnaw on wood after all.

Practical Pottery Barn. Link me up to your fave practical PB find/project.

Linking this over to the fun at CSI

PB Style: Night Lights

2010-08-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Because we all sit out on the back porch
with the umbrella still up
long after the sun has gone down
with the candles lit

I decided to whip out the ribbon
and go to town on these little lanterns I found
on half price sale for a dollar each
at the Goodwill, Intl District

I teetered and I tottered
on the wobbly chair
to open the umbrella
and string up my lamps

Backyard Night Light Lanterns

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Then I also realized that I could actually close the umbrella
without taking down the lanterns
and that they would sit neatly on the table
or in my pots

This was a simple project.

I took those there lanterns

Thrifty Find - Goodwill Int'l District

50% off Blue Tags Day

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Took some ribbon and a stapler to attach said ribbon

Pottery Barn Inspired hanging lanterns for outdoor umbrella

$5.00 | $1 each lamp; $2 for 3 yds ribbon

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And we rocked it out.

I imagine that the next time
that I open the umbrella
they will hang just as I strung them
in the perfect spots
on the umbrella arms

or maybe I'll be cussing them out
for getting tangled in the umbrella mechanism.

Pottery Barn Chalkboard Rock Vase Filler Hack

2010-08-24T03:01:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So one of the newbies at PB online

Is a vase full of awesomeness. aka chalkboard rocks.

I would never pay $16 for 4 black rocks.
No matter how smooth they are.
Granted, they are black rocks that you can write on with special little white sticks.

And yes, PB designers, if you "season" your chalkboards,
they won't have ghost letters for years to come.
Although, maybe, that is the look you are going for?
Halloween theme and all.

But I do still have this big old basket of rocks

Pinehurst Summer Harvest Week 2

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And I am certain that there are some smooth ones in that grouping.
So help me God.

And a while ago, I went to the Habitat Home Improvement Outlet in So. Seattle. And on their paint shelf...next to the heirloom white and butter yellow minis, they had a quart of chalkboard paint.

When I went to check out, the checker tried to tell me
"Where did you get this? I don't think it is for sell. I think this is our chalkboard paint"

I looked around and saw all the chalkboard decor.
Got it.
Said nothing.
He got a clue.
Sold me the quart and understood if he didn't want something to be sold
it shouldn't be set on the shelf.
Especially on the PAINT shelf.
I could see if I had picked it up in the nail section.
I picked it up in the paint section.

And so like everyone else, it is time for another chalkboard project.
Hack commenced.

Break out the contraband chalkboard paint.

Habitat store chalkboard paint

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Start with a super sized (paper plate sized) rock and slap on the paint

Preferably, with a sponge brush
Continue with much more reasonable sized rocks

Various painted rocks

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Give PB props for realizing that smooth rocks are so much easier
to paint and chalk up
than knubbly rocks are

Once dry, SEASON your chalkboards people!

No matter how pretty those smooth hard black rocks look

Smooth black, rough black and seasoned rocks

Photo (c) b3 home designs

If you don't season your rocks by scribbling them up with chalk

rubbing that chalk in

and then wiping it off

you will see your first message

forever

and ever

and really

who wants that?

Finished and scribbled chalkboard rocks

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Especially when you write stuff like this on them.

PB Hacked | Chalkboard Rocks

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Throw them in a vase (gently, of course)

and call it done.

You can check this post

for various places you can use your rocks in your home

I used the big one on my kitchen window sill

after I scribbled

[heart]

on it.

awww...

how sappy.

Your turn. Show me your rocks!

This one is totally Easy.
DIY addicts already have chalkboard paint on hand.
Or know where you can get some at a similar ReStore|Habitat type shop for super cheap.
Or use your Mike's or Jo's coupon and get some there for super cheap.

Dig up some smooth rocks.
Or buy them at said crafty store.
Break out the sponge brush and slap on the paint.
Or just drop them in the can and fish them out later.
Whatever floats your boat.

I've Been Framed: Or Not

2010-08-23T22:43:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So we already learned how you could collect frames and make your home beautiful.
But what if you don't have the funds or skill or time to do all that art collecting.
Well, I have a whole post on EASY art collecting.
But say you are still about to hit the thrift stores for the first time.

You've checked out my reviews of local stops and haunts.

Now, you are heading in.

I think I've mentioned many a time that my husband loves him some Aaron's Brothers Framing penny sales.
If only we had the same taste in frames.

In my stairwells, I have mixed and matched his frames

Stairwell Gallery

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And I've come to live without having matching frames (ick, anyway)
Or having all black frames ('cause I copy everyone else like that)

The mix match is kinda sorta growing on me.
To the point that I can even mix color and bw
Personal and stock
landscape and people

I know. Sick.

That all said, like everyone else on the internets
I, apparently, have plenty of empty, glassless, color matched frames laying about

Thing is, I DID have a ton of frames without glass laying about
Mostly because when you move into a 4200 sf home
(yes, just the two...now three of you)
The only way to afford said house is to have your friends move you in
Who are currious to know why that huge box they dropped off the truck is full of "windchimes"
Which, coincidentally, make the same sound as a ton and a half of broken glass frames

And did I mention I am a packrat?

Long before the frame ideas came into my life,
I had these two, perfectly good, but just not my style frames.

One day, I was at my Mecca (aka McClendon Hardware in Burien)
And I just happed to stop by the paint aisle looking for some Zinsser
Found this bucket oh LOVE
aka DutchBoy creamy buttery yellow mistinted paint

No idea the name of the color, just know I love the buttery, off white, creamy tones
and will honest to God shed a tear when it is all gone

All said, I was busy painting up a ton of other projects with this supposedly Godly Heirloom White spray paint. Which, I don't think is all that. I know, kick me out of the DIY cool kids club.

Broke out the sponge brush and dropped a coat of LOVE on those two frames.
Came back the next morning
They were high and dry

And ready for hanging.
Just so happened (of course) that I happened by the thrift shop and what did I find?
Found these two scallop edged lovelies

Gorgeous Scalloped Frames | Thrift Find 1.99 each at Salvation Army Burien

Photo (c) b3 home designs

and shortly after found the hexagonal frame
And then knew I wanted a smallish mirror to really knock this all out

Painted Frame Wall

Photo (c) b3 home designs

All because I had a vision once it started.
Knew I wanted different sized rectangle frames
Knew I wanted some horizontal and some vertical placement
Knew I wanted to mix in some non-rectangle
Knew I needed interestingly detailed frames
Thought I knew I wanted an odd number
The frame was totally lucky accidental.

But awesome nonetheless

This is DIY Easy because that frame wall cost $7 post vision
Post vision means: Had some stuff on hand, got an idea, wanted to finish out idea
Had on hand - two large frames, paint.

If I had to add cost of what I had on hand, I paid $6 for the full bucket of paint
But you can go to ReStore, hit the paint shelf and get a quart for $2 which will be more than plenty
The two large frames were of course from Aaron's Brothers and likely cost $30.
High end. He wouldn't pay more than 29.99 for a frame and the second was 1 cent on sale.
Of course you can find similar size frames at Goodwill for no more than 5.99 each.

This is also DIY easy because painting is for dummies (especially with a sponge brush)
No patience required (I did this on my black granite counters)
Not messy
Not pricey

Go forth and conquer

Rock on - Pottery Barn Style

2010-08-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So in this post
you saw that I was
evidently
losing my mind.

tsk, tsk, tsk.
I don't have a green thumb
so when I plant
this is what I harvest

Pinehurst Summer Harvest

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Don't get me wrong
I harvest these on purpose
You see
I LOVE the Pottery Barn catalog
And I especially loved this room in the PBTeen Catalog

Photo from PB.com catalog

Look close.

Closer

On the shelf

For one, that cement planter is hot

I made something similar to that

off of a blog tutorial of course

and I'll have to show you that

just as soon as I get plants that don't die

as soon as I plop them in them

whatever.

But did you look closer?

See those rocks?

I love that

and I'm sure PB will sell those rocks for like $20.

each.

So in true DIY fashion

I went into my backyard

and found me some rocks

Rock Garden Markers

Photo (c) b3 home designs

and I labeled them
with the names
of all the plants
I ~~killed~~ planted
this summer.

and then I did the crazy
and I brought those rocks inside
where first I soaked them in the sink downstairs
overnight
then, because I'm crazier than crazy
I brought them upstairs
and washed them again
right before I baked them in my oven

overkill much?
Then.
I decorated with them.

Check it out

Mason Jar Orchid Holder

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Found Heart Rock | Cannon Beach?

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Home Sweet Rock Cubbies

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Rock Sculpture | Number Collection

Photo (c) b3 home designs

On the mantle

Rocks and Candles

Photo (c) b3 home designs

On the Sill | MIL

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Rocky Succulent Foundation

Photo (c) b3 home designs

All natural: wood, rock, shell

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Rock Book Weight

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Rocks are the ultimate cheap, DIY decor
Even for Pottery Barn

This project was DIY Hard for someone like me
because it involved manual labor
(digging rocks out of the ground is HARD WORK!)
and it involved patience
(it took me close to a month to collect all those rocks)
but it didn't involve spending a single dime
which is the only reason this isn't expert level
that's just how hard it was to do all that digging
and be patient.

Happy digging. Don't pay PB for rocks.
Go dig them up yourself already.
Or wait for a super cool giveaway
that is coming here in September.

Especially if you're a Pottery Barn fan.

Happy weekend!

Heard Around Pinehurst

2010-08-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

In the midst of all this here crafting and collecting

and (ahem, shopping)

I hear a lot of random things.

Here is where I'll collect up the most random of all.

I'll always add the most recent to the top of the list.

Scrap Room Wall of Inspiration

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Like my wall of inspiration,

these words inspire me.

"What are you going to do

with that bow and arrow

that I keep tripping over

in the bathroom?"

"That dog hair on the duvet

is not part of the design?

I thought it was part of

the Ashley Collection."

"Ohhh...mommy brought the

puppy rock buffet indoors."

i collect vol. 2: rocks

2010-08-21T10:56:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

This might seem odd...

but I promise

there is a method to this madness

Very Partial Rock Collection

Photo (c) b3home designs

Later this weekend

I'll show you the method

For now, the madness

i collect vol. 1 : vintage cameras

2010-08-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

There isn't much I won't collect

some would say...

...I like to shop

But really

I like to hunt

Part of Vintage Camera Collection

Photo (c) b3 home designs

What is your favorite collection?

Second Hand | Bright Idea: Pottery Barn Cloche Hack

2010-08-19T18:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Cloches are all the rage right?

But $70 rage?

Get outta here.

They are awesome though so I've thought up my own take on them.
There's this one that I got at Goodwill Burien for $1.99

$1.99 Goodwill Hurricane turned Cloche

Photo (c) b3 home designs

It is actually a hurricane.
Which is kinda awesome in and of itself.
But I do have a puppy.
And the hurricane is somewhat thin.
So I didn't want to purch it up on that smallish base and make it all top heavy.
Honestly, it was by accident that I flipped it around like that there.
Okay. No it wasn't. Because that was my bright idea.
From the moment I saw it on the shelf.
And saw the price.

I did already have the glass cake stand (I know, I hate when folks say that too).
But it was a wedding gift from Bed, Bath and Beyond.
$20 for the full set and $1.99 for a hurricane at Goodwill, I'm sure you can work it out.

Before I bought that hurricane, though, I was at the Habitat ReStore.
Yes, this was the infamous "We don't sell chalkboard paint" visit.
I saw these light fixture covers.
And couldn't get imaginative with them, then.
They were $5 each and I was convinced I wanted to have 2 or 3. At least.
And I also knew I had a stupidly self imposed limit of about $10
Because really...I was just there for paint.
And I had already picked up more than I was there for.
But I had to go back.
Alas, the cloches that could have been were gone.

Sniff.

I'll keep my eyeballs peeled.

I've Been Framed | $16 art binge

2010-08-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So you're making your first trip to a Second Hand store (aka, thrift store) and you have no idea what you should be looking for in the piles (and PILES) of stuff.

Mistake #1:
NEVER go without at least a general idea of what you're looking for

You know you have a limited amount of time and money to spend.
Say 30 minutes and $10.

If you stopped into a mega thrift store, you should ask the first kind soul where all the picture frames are.
They will point you to some dim, dusty place in the back of the joint.
There, you will find that 30 minutes and $10 will take you far.
But remember Mistake #1?

Mistake #2:
Heading to a frame aisle and not having a specific project in mind OR
a general theme to go off of.

Easy enough to remedy.
For a specific project, rather then trying to match everything in your house up,
tackle a room (or even a corner of a room or a specific wall) at a time

For a general theme, remember that you can always break out the paint to create a theme
and everything does NOT have to match perfectly.

Case in point, this DIY Easy Frame project.

Frame 3.99 from Value Village | "Found Letter Art" free from Flicker

Photo (c) b3 home designs

I just started collecting.
Anytime I saw a silverish looking frame with this thin mount edge

Thrifting collection of thin mount edge silver frames

Photo (c) b3 home designs

I snapped it up.

You can set whatever kind of rules for your collection as you want.
Because I'm married to an Aaron's Brother's Frames photographer junky
I know big frames are expensive

So I generally look for 11x14 or larger.
And "heavyish"
And I flip them over and see if they have the screw slot corners
Because that there is a good frame.

I don't really care about the condition of the glass because really, sometimes, glassless frames are good
I don't have a hard a fast "nothing over $5 rule" in this realm.
I don't buy smaller than 11x14
I usually buy at least two, if not three at a time.
I tend to shy away from giant poster sized frames at this time (because prints that size are PRICEY)
I almost always use these types of frames to actually frame something.

My favorite source of all times for "stuff to frame" on the cheap is:

The Internets. Of course.
If you have never been to Vintage Printables you must RUN and get your free on.
They have all sorts of great images, most of which, at the time of press run, you cannot see.
Because they are, evidently, technophobes and can't figure out how to run their blog.
But they are working on it.

And I downloaded all sorts of awesome from there.
Like for instance
these jazz posters:

Jazz Posters downloaded from Vintage Printables

Printed at Costco

Framed with Thrifted collection of frames

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Which, of course, I used some of my collected frames to...well...frame.

These 16 x 20 frames cost me $1.99 each
Prints were $6 each at Costco
$16 for a wall of awesome.
Pricier than most of my DIY projects which is one reason why this is DIY Medium
I'm also handy with the Photoshop (so I could prep them for optimal Costco sizing/cropping printing
It took half a minute to find stuff I liked at Vintage Printables because, well, I liked it all.

If you need frames that match identically, you can easily bump this to a DIY Hard
lugging around your one frame as you search the region for it's twin is a bit much

or

If you loath photo editing and can't figure out how to crop right at Costco, that could start to be hard

But for general, cheap, DIYers, this should hit medium.
Only because you often need patience
or a handful of cash to amass a decent collection

Hall of Flags

2010-08-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

I have been looking for marine flags forever.

Well, for AFFORDABLE marine flags.

I even contemplated making them.

Especially when I came across this set on Pottery Barn:

Photo from Pottery Barn Catalog

I was going to look them up again and go to paint funky town.
But then I remember that I had a Pottery Barn GC. OR two.
Well technically, a merchandize credit. And a gift certificate.

I typed in the balance checker for the first one. $6.01
Ouch.
That wouldn't work.
Fingers crossed for the Merch Credit card.
$31.96
SCORE!

On clearance (with free shipping - free shipping is the ONLY thing that gets me to buy at PB.com)
they were 19.99
For a set of 11
Which I will totally rip apart.
And frame individually
For that one long wall downstairs

Downstairs MIL - Flag Hall In Progress

Photo (c) b3home designs

Then I flipped to the next page. And I saw the oars.
flippity flippets.
Guess I'll have to keep looking for those in the antique shops.
Or get creative about where I'm looking
I mean my hubby is on the board of a wooden boat org.
Certainly they know where I can get some oars right?
Vintage ones at that.
They are the ones (with their poster print) that started the whole "wooden boat" theme anyhow.

All said. These flags come to just a bit over $1 each. Before framing.
Way cheaper than what I could make them for when you factor in my pricey time.
Just saying.

Oh, and if I get half a moment,
I will totally make them into these cuties
from Land of Nod

Photo from Land of Nod website

LOVE the toggles
Love the more naturale string

We'll see about this hack.
And I'll also hack a sign like this

Photo from Spicher and Company website

Oh that downstairs level is really coming into shape.

Awesome.

Just in time for the Classic.

This is a DIY "Medium" because of cost

($20 for flags, $10 for frames is getting up there)

Second Hand: Pottery Barn Sand Dollar Vase Filler Hack

2010-08-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Yes, yes, yes.

We all know that Pottery Barn vase fillers are ridiculously priced.

Prime example. Sand Dollars. For $10. On clearance.

But hey!

You get free shipping!

Like everyone else, I got my knock-off Pottery Barn vase filler for about a 10th of what they wanted to charge you. In my case, not only did I get my baggie of Sand Dollars for $1.50, I actually got a nice assortment of sizes to boot including this gigantic one.

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Gorgeous huh?

Got mine at Value Village, so file this under "Secondhand" please.
Awesome.

But it gets better.

I went to the Pacific Galleries Auction House Annual Flea Market
on my way home from work on Saturday
And look what I scored

Value Village AND Pac Gal Annual Flea Sand Dollars

$3.00 for 12

Say what?!?

Pottery Barn wanted $10.00 (on sale - they usually want 19.99!!) for 6,

yes, you read that right

for SIX sand dollars.

Does hell go with no?

Perhaps I'm super lucky to live in the Pacific Northwest

where these can be found for almost a dime a dozen.

Almost.

But Pottery Barn really.

Who are you kidding??

Show me what you found while out thrifting lately.

You won't believe the other "authentic" pottery barn find I found

Don't hate. Just recognize.

Mod Podged Bird Plates

2010-08-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

When I first saw this project on the web
over at Frugal with a Flourish,
I knew I had to knock them out.

Modged Up Bird Plates

Photo (c) b3 home designs

So I did.

I already had the salad plates from staging the last place we sold.
Check

I already had Mod Podge because, well, I'm a crafter
Check

To get the birds, all you have to do is Google "Images, Bird sillhoutte"
Low and behold the choices are almost endless
Almost.

I picked out about 11 I liked
Then I went into Microsoft Digital Image Suite (pre Photoshop love affair)
And opened a circle the size of my plates (8 inches)
And then sized the birds so that they were pretty similar size for each plate

I printed on regular 8.5 x 11 paper
Then got to snipping and cutting.
Of course, I did this by hand.

Unlike this project gone wild
The snipping and cutting only took me 10 minutes
or so
and no one looked at me like I was crazy.

Once cut, I modge podged them down onto the plate
with a layer of MP on the back of each cutout
Then I ran a layer of MP across the full front
And that dulled down my already not full bleed black ink
So I took my Deco Art Gloss Black Enamel acrylic paint
And a couple of tiny brushes
And filled in the sillhoutes again
Let dry overnight.

Next morning, use Disc Hangers (aka, the BEST plate hanging tool in the world)

Best $12 ever spent in home decor accessories

Disc Hangers

Photo (c) b3 home designs

to make the plates ammendable to hanging
Then I used a cool eyeballing trick for easy, symetrical, photo hanging
Fun times.
I'll blog about that.

Part 2 of eyeballing plate hanger placement

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Don't let the copious supplies, cutting time or successive steps scare you.
This is totally DIY Easy. Jump in and see.

Dining Room Bird Plates

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Now I just need to determine

what I'm going to do with my highwater curtains

And whether or not I'm going to just do it already

and paint that gold mirror black.

We have NOTHING gold in our house

I felt better about that mirror once I put the curtains back up

But I'm still thinking black is where that has to go.

Gulp.

Typewriter Key Plaques | Ballard Designs Hack

2010-08-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

In my last Ballard Designs catalog,
I about passed out when I saw the typewriter key plaques.

Or maybe I passed out when I saw how much they cost.

I mean I love font art like the other girl.

Love it enough to go through MONTHS of creativity

to create some of my own.

After staring at the picture for about 8 hours straight

I thought to myself

"self"

(yes, I speak to myself as well)

"self, you can make those."

And I did

I went to my fave Dollar Store in Burien

and bought some more wreaths

But this time

I bought smooth green ones

instead of the fuzzy white ones.

And of course you know I have plenty of black spray paint around.

Supposedly, I only paint things white or black.

Supposedly.

On my way home from work, I stopped by Michaels

to see if they had any letters that were

cool

and cheap

Preferably on clearance.

Clearance smooth foam letters

Basic supplies, Ballard hack Typewriter plaques

Photo (c) b3 home designs

50 cents each.

And I ONLY had to dig for 10 minutes

to find letters that would actually spell something

Anything

Lucky me

I found P, H, T, O(x2)

Guess what that spells?

After trying to kill everyone in my home

by spray painting in the garage

with the garage outter door closed

but the door to my home open

I realized that I didn't like the dull look of the spray paint.

So I broke out the latex enamel.

Yes, said same enamel that gave me fits on another project

that yet remains to be unblogged for the love of all things

:perfectionist:

whatever.

so the latex enamel

I got it at Big Lots

For $2

so when I run out

I will be really sad

Thank goodness in typical B fashion

I bought two cans

That's thinking ahead.

So.

The latex enamel went on really well

because I had a black spray paint base

But even directly onto the letters

it worked well

latex enamel painting

photos (c) b3 home designs

Then I had to figure out what I would use as a backing

And because I'm a world renown scrapbooker

I know that kraft cardstock is in style

So I would never use my PAID for cardstock

And instead whipped out all the card and kraft packing materials

from my stash of "this would be awesome to scrap on"

Of course they were not big enough to outline the whole circle on

but they were big enough to cover the whole opening

Typewriter plaque backing

photo (c) b3 home designs

phew.

I would have LOST IT

if they had fallen short

Or they would have just gone on the pile of still unfinished projects.

That's more likely

Getting mad just takes up so much energy.

Traced the outside of the circles, onto the cardstock

Cut out the backings

Broke out the trusty glue gun

Burnt my fingers off gluing the foam circles

to the cardstock backing

Then affixed the letters to the centers

Affix letters to center of backing

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Then I broke out the nails

First I was going to pierce the nail through the front

on the cardstock

just under the foam ring

Then I had a duh moment and realized that

if I just poked a hole in the back of the foam circle

I could hang them flush on the wall

and not see the nails

Sheer. Genius.

Photo plaques hung

Photo (c) b3 home designs

Almost as genius as that Patty Murray political ad on my tv.

I mean come on,

you didn't think that was a dirty movie did you?

In the middle of the day??

On second thought, that ad is really dirty.

filthy

and not in a good way

So I guess it is one in the same.

* the observant ones will note that I also picked up and painted an "s"

I am all about decorating in odds.
The "s" would have been the 6th plaque. So I ditched it. *

Ballard Designs wanted $250 plus shipping for a similar set up.
I made mine for

$10.50
Foam wreaths | $5 for 5
Foam letters | $2.50 for 5
Spray paint | .99 for 1 can
latex enamel | $2 for 1 can
carstock backing | free - you have a ton of it too (backs of cereal boxes if necessary)

Have fun with it and show me which ones you make!
If you can only find x's, o's and q's
consider making some x and o plaques
or some "q" for question plaques to style a bookcase with
or some initial plaques if your name is like Quantae or something

man I miss that kid

Linking up to the other Hacks at CSI

How NOT to hang art

2010-08-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So I created the art.
The hard way.
You can read about that here.

And then I tried to get it the two pieces off the floor

Travel Themed Subway Art Hanging

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And onto the wall.

And I thought that I could use these

ook Picture hooks

Photo (c) b3 home designs

And as you can see

perhaps by the fact that the art

is still on the ground

ook hooks right before I flung them across the room

Photo (c) b3 home designs

I failed.

Miserably.

Wimpered a little bit about how weak I am

Then had to admit failure

and ask for help

Travel themed Subway Art hung the appropriate way

Photo (c) b3 home designs

He broke out the stud finder
And the bolts
And the tape measure
And his strong shoulder
And his weak wife
And his anxious "What in the world are they up to now??" puppy

And he got it done.
I love him.

Ook hooks are NOT the way to hang up Travel Themed Subway Art gone wild.
I'm just saying.

Unless they have a better product that they could hip me to
I won't be trying that again.
Ook picture hanging hooks.
Ultimate fail.

I so love how those Subway Art pieces came out.
Awesome.

Subway Art the Super Hard Way

2010-08-14T03:38:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So in this post, I revealed how little I value my time
versus how much I value not having to whip out my credit card.

In an effort to create my take on subway art,
we built and stretched our own canvas.

Framed and stretched canvas

Photo (c) b3home designs

The frame was built in probably about an hour by Mr. Handy Guy

Took me about 3 hours to stretch the canvas on both frames

with the staple gun, brad nailer and canvas stretcher pliers.

and a hammer

Took me about another hour

including "drying time"

to prime the canvas.

In some ways, I think now I would have been okay with natural canvas

but the primer was good for making sure all the texture mediums

stuck to the canvas.

After primed, they were placed in the office.

Where they sat.

For 4 months.

Finally, giving into the fear that I would be imperfect

and not be able to do a faux encaustic

I just went to town with texturizing and playing.

And yellow (smile)

Because yellow makes me happy

Almost as happy as yellow and gray together.

After about a week of off and on playing on various nights

This is what the canvas looked like

Textured and washed canvas
Photo (c) b3home designs

To get all that yummy texture,
I threw every trick in the book at it

I used some acrylic gel mediums

some pumice stone

some drywall tape (my fave texture of all)

some GAC40

some retarding agent

some spackle

some caulk

Like I said, I threw it all on there
over the course of a week
to allow for drying times

Generally, I used an artist knife to throw stuff on
and a sponge or dry brush to splash on water tinted with acrylics
or ragged on some thicker blotches of thickened paint

Once that was all done,
I took out my Making Memories Simply Fab foam stamps
and I went to town stamping out funny quotes | sayings | heard abouts.
I especially loved many of the quotes from
YeeHaw's shop on Etsy.
I mean really.
"What homewrecker are you mixed up with now".
Classic Storetry.

These prints are totally on my Christmas wish list.
My faves are No. 140 Lumpy Gravy, No. 017 Blue Plate Special, No. 103 Booty Call, and No. 203 Amateur Hour

But I digress.
For a little longer.
At Cornell,
In the Big Red Band
We had t-shirts made up
off of quotes I collected one season.
They were hillarious
I wish I still had my t shirt
or the quotes

man I miss being in the Big Red Band.
I miss college

Oh yes...the project.

So when I stamped all those sayings
from the t shirt
and from my general life
and from the web
all individually by hand
(yes, each little letter)
I realized that my perfectionist tendencies
were going to be the death of me.

I couldn't just use some white paint and call it a day.
I had to use a dab of white paint
a dab of gesso
and a dab of off white paint

And sometimes,
those dabs,
had texturizers mixed in
Because, clearly, I didn't want to make this easy.

Once I threw this bad girl up on the dining room table

after a massive fail on her twin

I had to work quick.

Because I'm the last scrapbooker in the world that doesn't own a Cricuit

and I can't seem to win one for the life on me on any of the 128 blogs I stalk

and I can't afford to buy one because well, puppy needs to eat...

I proceeded to do this (by hand)

And I thought my husband was going to have me committed.

two days later

subway art handcuttings

photo (c) b3 home designs

I "finished" cutting them out.

I use "finished" loosely

because I had to reprint about half of them

I used three font sizes (huge, huger and bolded huge)

and three colors (black, gray and grayer)

However.

My original "huge" was too small

and I was going to poke my eye out with scissors

before giving myself permission to kill another tree

and just print them bigger already.

Because I did it in word and wasted lots of space,

I ended up printing about 150 pages of letters.

ouch.

Once they were sliced out, it was easy going from there.

I started by gathering all of my supplies

subway art project supplies

photo (c) b3 home designs

My subway art didn't use street names.

Instead, I used names of cities we had both visited before

Super bold names were cities we had been to together

Medium font cities are cities we've both been to,

but not with each other.

Smallest font cities are cities that either he or I have been to

The colors of the cities have nothing to do with anything

because I didn't have the patience to come up with a theme.

I laid out my letters on my canvas

travel themed subway art in progress

photo (c) b3 home designs

And then I went to town with my fave deluxe retractable exacto knife

best scrapbooking and now home deco tool I EVER bought

I removed the centers of letters

and kept words stable as I slapped Mod Podge

(holly heck! of course Mod Podge has a blog and Facebook page)

to the back of my letters.

After three days

two of which involved trips out of the house

and moments of panic realizing the puppy mutt

would be home alone and probably scatter

my carefully laid out cities to the wind

I finished up with this

travel themed subway art

photo (c) b3 home designs

I LOVE how these turned out.

Didn't so much love what came next.

You'll definitely have to tune in to see the drama

with this mama

trying to hang these bad girls.

*** You just read an award winning, featured post ***

***

Subway Art Gone Wild

2010-08-12T23:22:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

So when I say subway art, I don't mean graffiti.
I mean that I've been on the Internets and seen lots of awesome font/subway sign inspired pieces.

When we moved into this place

I instantly fell in love with the art cut outs in our entryway

Photo (C) B3 Home Designs

That was, of course, before I realized just how expensive

not one, but TWO gigantor pieces of art would be.

Never fear

Being the cheap-o that I am

From the start, I knew I was going to "create something" for those spaces

I love Planet Janet Art and actually have done open studio with her

I knew I could never afford one of her pieces for the space

(though I have a scheme to get some of her smaller pieces for the space in between

But I love her open spirit of open studio inspiration

So I started thinking I would use the encaustic/collage technique to liven this space up

Thought half a second about how intoxicating/annoying beeswax would start to smell

in large quantities, on my wall, like that, for a long time to come

researched how much encaustics cost

(WOW!! Holy for the love of sanity!)

Realized we needed to go to plan B

In the meantime, Mr. Handy looked up stretching canvas online.

Because, really, even with my super Mike's coupons,

they just didn't have a big enough canvas.

Never fear. That coupon went to good use on a pair of stretcher pliers.

Why yes. Yes we did. We built our own canvases.

One of the best tutorials is here by Ray Schloss.

Building the canvas frame was his realm.

We went to Land of Crappy Non-Straight Wood

(aka, Home Depot, Issaquah)

and bought a yitload of 2x2s and a couple 2x4s

the latter of which was a PLEASURE to split with a circular saw

free hand

because we don't have a table saw

nice

Mr. Handy was super concerned about positve reinforcement

So these suckers are heavy

But not "I can't pick those up heavy"

and really braced through the corners like you would not believe

That was the easy part.

Then I craweled around on all fours to actually, you know,

stretch the canvas.

I bought two 6x9 drop cloths

at the Land of Everything but Wood is Great to Buy Here

(aka, Home Depot, Issaquah)

And it took me, the non-math girl, about 17 minutes to convert 9 x 12 feet

to 108 x 144 inches

as I tried to figure out if I should buy one 9x12 or two 6x9 cloths

and I gave up trying to figure out

hence why I bought two 6x9 drop cloths

at $10 each.

vs 19.97 for the one and the extra work of having to try to cut a straight line.

The Expert DIY label is generally for the whole project

Any project that needs to be blogged in a billion parts is expert to me

but also, if you suck at math,

don't play with power tools

and have no patience for power staplers and scratching up your hardwoods

Then the patience level alone will bump this to expert.

You'll see.

Straws are shorter than fireplace matches

2010-08-07T15:22:00.000-07:00

***

This is a stale post. Don't you smell the stank?

For fresh ideas and the newest new new stuff

why don't you head on over to the blog we actually update.

www.b3hd.blogspot.com

Love to see you there.

Carry on as you were.

***

Straws are shorter than fireplace matches.
Wanna know how I know?

In my thrifting adventures, I found this straw holder
at the Salvation Army, Burien which you know from this post
about Going Thrifting is my fave place to find stuff.

I paid 1.99 for a vintage-ish straw holder.

I am a lazy thrifter.

And one day, it will come back to haunt me

But I'm good with patinas and dust and...

...okay. I'm not.

Like I said, I'm lazy.

As is, this goody had some water spots on the lid.

Rather than try to clean them

I painted them.

And because the silver-look parts I painted were metal,

I did rough them up with a bit of sandpaper (medium grit)

so that my slick, beautiful new Dutch Boy paint I got at McClendon's

(man I love small town hardware stores

alas, no color name, it was an oops but I DID etch the formula to my forehead)

would stick and stay stuck.

Only took two coats (love that Dutch Boy)

and note that I wasn't worried about

perfect coverage under the lid,

in the bottom of the riser lid,

or on the tiny poll.

Just the outsides outta do ya.

Here's where I tell you that straws

(which this piece came with, and I promptly threw away)

do fit. Matches, do not.

Case in point:

Photo (c) b3 Home Designs

So then I got to cut each of the matches by hand to get to this:

Repurposed Straw Holder | Grill Matchstick Holder

Photo (c) b3 Home Designs

I especially love that artistic "twist" to the sticks.

I could so be a shot stylist.

Okay. I kid.

Painting this piece wasn't necessary.

But because I did, I have an awesome matching accessory

for all the randomness on my porch.

Pinehurst Upper Deck

Photos (c) b3 Home Designs

I'm just saying.

She's pretty gorgeous if I do say so myself.

The red tips go well with the pillows.

Did I mention how much I love the Burien, Salvation Army?

Almost as much as I love Dutch Boy and their awesome paint.

Nope, they didn't pay or compensate me in any way to say that.

I just LOVE that stuff.

I could swim in it and never bathe again.

Bit much eh?

Sorry about that.

This is very much a DIY easy.

Use whatever paint you have.

Don't forget to snip the little match starter patch

off of the bottom of the box

and glue it to the bottom of your jar.

Trust me.

Your better half will at least think

that you have function in mind during your decor binges

if you remember these little detals.

Enjoy!

What has been your great thrifting get this week?

What did you give new life to?

*** You just read an award winning post **

This project was selected for the August 30 showcase
of yummy second life gets

at House of Grace

Awesome!

Back to the previously scheduled program

*****