Home Decor Girl

Home Decorating for the Real World a Bestseller and Year End Sales

2010-12-29T17:28:00.000-08:00

Okay, there is a new home decorating book that took Amazon's Kindle by storm a few weeks ago and its Home Decorating for the Real World! It was a complete surprise that caught everyone off guard. Now the author, Dana Michelle Burnett, has just released a fiction novel on Kindle with the paperback version coming early in 2011. There's a free glimpse of both projects at DanaMichelleBurnett.com.

With the new year right around the corner, home decor sites are offering their items at huge discounts. NanasAtticStore.com marked some of their most popular items down by 75% and we're not just talking Christmas left overs, this is lawn and garden, candle accessories, arrangements, and more!

Wishing all of you the best in the New Year!

New Christmas Decor Ideas for 2010

2010-11-29T03:41:00.000-08:00

Every year the holiday season seems to start earlier and the 2010 season is no exception. Set this year apart from years past by trying some Christmas decor ideas that are new for the 2010 holiday season!
Nutcrackers: This traditional favorite can move to the center of your decorating plans thanks to the wide assortment on the market today. Arrange a collection on your mantel or hearth for a fun alternative to the typical fireplace displays. Another option is to group them on tables for a splash of holiday color. The great thing about Christmas nutcrackers is that they come in a variety of shapes, making it easy to decorate as much or as little as you want.

Snow Globes: A stunning snow globe always draws attention and a Christmas themed snow globe will steal the show. These collectible globes are great on shelves, tables, and even as a centerpiece for the dinning room table. Because of their shape, glass snow globes reflect the flickering of holiday candles and add even more sparkle to your Christmas decorating.

Musical Christmas Decor: Nothing sets the mood for the holiday season like music. The music of the holiday season is as much a part of the festivity as Christmas trees and nativity scenes. Add your own notes to the holiday with musical figurines or ornaments. In fact, musical ornaments for the tree are one of the most popular Christmas decor ideas of this year.

Christmas Candle holders: Glowing candlelight is beautiful anytime of year, but during the Christmas season the flickering glow compliments the twinkling lights and ornaments of the Christmas trees. To give your candles a seasonal flair, grab some inexpensive Christmas candle holders in fun Santa or snowman designs.

Now that you have some Christmas decor ideas for this year, why don't you get an early start on your holiday decorating?

Don't forget to check out Home Decorating for the Real World. An entire chapter on season decorating!

New Christmas Decor for 2010 Video

2010-11-27T06:47:00.000-08:00

We've got a lot of new stock in at NanasAtticStore.com for the holiday season. Check out our latest video for a small little sampling.

New Christmas Decor Ideas for 2010

2010-11-26T11:42:00.000-08:00

Every year the holiday season seems to start earlier and the 2010 season is no exception. Set this year apart from years past by trying some Christmas decor ideas that are new for the 2010 holiday season!
Nutcrackers: This traditional favorite can move to the center of your decorating plans thanks to the wide assortment on the market today. Arrange a collection on your mantel or hearth for a fun alternative to the typical fireplace displays. Another option is to group them on tables for a splash of holiday color. The great thing about Christmas nutcrackers is that they come in a variety of shapes, making it easy to decorate as much or as little as you want.
Snow Globes: A stunning snow globe always draws attention and a Christmas themed snow globe will steal the show. These collectible globes are great on shelves, tables, and even as a centerpiece for the dinning room table. Because of their shape, glass snow globes reflect the flickering of holiday candles and add even more sparkle to your Christmas decorating.
Musical Christmas Decor: Nothing sets the mood for the holiday season like music. The music of the holiday season is as much a part of the festivity as Christmas trees and nativity scenes. Add your own notes to the holiday with musical figurines or ornaments. In fact, musical ornaments for the tree are one of the most popular Christmas decor ideas of this year.
Christmas Candle holders: Glowing candlelight is beautiful anytime of year, but during the Christmas season the flickering glow compliments the twinkling lights and ornaments of the Christmas trees. To give your candles a seasonal flair, grab some inexpensive Christmas candle holders in fun Santa or snowman designs.
Now that you have some Christmas decor ideas for this year, why don't you get an early start on your holiday decorating?

Fun Ideas for Christmas Decorating

2010-11-22T07:16:00.000-08:00

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It is the time of year for holiday decorating, but are you ready? Do you hate the idea of the hassle, the mess, and the expense? Enjoy the holidays again with these fun ideas for Christmas decorating.
Christmas Trees: Are you tired of those boring glass balls? For a new look, consider decorating with candy canes and matching ribbon only. In place of a star, why not use a cluster of candy canes at the top. If you are really creative, use sheer wrapping paper to cover Styrofoam balls so that they resemble candy pieces and create a garland of goodies.
Fireplaces: Often a centerpiece of holiday scenes, decorating the fireplace can seem overwhelming. Keep it simple by hanging stockings on the mantel. Even if you never place anything inside of them, just by hanging there they will add a sense of holiday festivity. This is easily one of the most traditional ideas for Christmas decorating, but still just as effective as it was in years past.
Dining Room: To add some sparkle to your dining room table, fill a simple glass bowl with colorful glass ornaments. (If you followed the tips above, you should have plenty left over!) This adds a decorative Christmas touch without the predictable poinsettias. If you prefer not to use glass balls, why not use tinsel and candy canes?
Windows: Give a festive look to your windows by making large bows from holiday themed ribbon and attaching them as tie backs to your window treatments. This unexpected splash of Christmas color adds a new twist to decorating for the season.
Now that you have a few ideas for Christmas decorating, why not get started and actually try enjoying it this year?

New Ideas for Christmas Decorating

2010-11-20T08:24:00.000-08:00

It's the season for Christmas decorating, but do you think you're completely ready? Do you detest the thought of the hassle, the clutter, and the cost? Appreciate the season again with a few unique ideas for Christmas decorating.

The Christmas Tree: Are you currently sick of the boring glass balls? For something different, take into consideration decorating with Christmas candy canes and coordinating ribbon alone. Instead of a star, why not use a cluster of candy canes at the top of the tree. If you're genuinely creative, work with sheer wrapping paper to cover Styrofoam balls so they appear like Christmas candy pieces and create a garland of goodies.

Fireplaces: Often a center of Christmas displays, decorating the fireplace can seem overwhelming. Keep it basic by hanging stockings on the mantel. Even when you never place anything inside of them, just by hanging there they will add a sense of seasonal festivity. This is easily one of the most traditional ideas for Christmas decorating, but still just as successful as it was years ago.

Holiday Dining Room: To include some sparkle to your dining room table, fill a simple glass bowl with colorful glass ornaments. (If you implemented the tips above, you will have plenty left over!) This adds a decorative Christmas touch without the expected poinsettias. If you prefer not to use glass balls, why don't you use tinsel and candy canes?

Christmas Windows: Give a fun look to your windows by making large bows from holiday themed ribbon and attaching them as tie backs to your draperies. This sudden splash of holiday color adds a new twist to decorating for the season.

Now that you have a few ideas for Christmas decorating, why not get started and actually try enjoying it this year.

Don't forget to grab your copy of Dana Michelle Burnett's new home decorating book Home Decor for the Real World!

Christmas Decorations Made Simple and Easy: Christmas Tree Themes

2010-11-17T08:08:00.000-08:00

The Christmas season has arrived. Now is the moment to pull out the seasonal decorations and get in the Christmas mood. Because of so many options and Christmas decorations becoming much less expensive, there is no good reason why you are not able to have the Christmas wonderland of your dreams.

A brand new craze that has come about in recent times with Christmas decorations would be to accentuate your tree, or at times even your entire residence, in a theme. This theme can be anything from a coordinating color scheme, a theme based on a specific Christmas item, or even a well-liked animated or tv character. Does it appear difficult? Not necessarily, just make use of the following ideas as motivation.

Contemporary: It is easy to decorate your holiday tree in a contemporary theme. Most contemporary designs in interior decorating involve sleek lines and standard color schemes. Use this identical idea in embellishing your Christmas tree in a contemporary theme. Select clear or white lights from top to bottom, a basic tree topper of glass or silver, and a classy black and white color scheme. Since it may be hard to locate black ornaments, opt instead for black silk flower stems. This provides you the essential color and takes you one more step away from the standard seasonal tree.

Color Coordinated: In case you are not looking to decorate the entire room, or if your room has a color scheme that won't flow with conventional red and green, it is possible to color synchronize your Christmas tree with your present decor. Decorations are available nowadays in a range of styles and colors. Pick colors that blend with your current decor and make a couple silk Christmas flower arrangements in the same colors to very easily complete your holiday decorating.

Snowman or Santa: This may seem like a conventional holiday style, but it's a brand new twist. Instead of having a blend of holiday ornaments, pick one figure such as a snowman or Santa. Buy different ornaments of this character for your tree from discount stores and a few figurines of it as well. Simply following through with this one character throughout the room will make your Christmas decorating look as though you hired a professional for a very limited expense.

Disney or Cartoon Theme: This is one of the simplest and least pricey themes to do yourself and it is additionally the one that attracts the most compliments. For this theme, use multi colored lights a great deal all over the Christmas tree and room especially if you are lucky enough to have a fireplace with a mantel. Go to the party supplies section of any store and purchase low-cost party favors of your selected character. With just some thread or clear string, you can convert these items into ornaments with ease. Don't overlook the possibilities of printed gift bags, fill with tinsel and place on the tree as well. For a tree topper, purchase one stuffed character or doll from the toy department and secure to the tree with floral wire. Quick, distinctive, and certainly a conversation starter.

Twinkle and Splendor: This is my particular favorite. I keep thinking that I will carry out this when my daughter grows out of the Disney theme. Cover the Christmas tree with many clear or white lights, there is no such thing as too many! Buy inexpensive clear ornaments in snowflake and ball shapes and place on the tree. For a bit of added opulence, include peacock feathers as well. I purchase mine from a neighborhood flea market, but many craft supply stores stock them as well. For a tree topper, spend a little extra money on glass or crystal. When a tree in this theme is lighted, the clear glass and plastic sparkle and no one can help but notice the beautiful colors of a peacock feather.

Need more ideas for Christmas Decorations? Stop by NanasAtticStore.com for more great Christmas decorating ideas. Look for Dana Michelle Burnett's new decorating book Home Decorating for the Real World to be available soon, filled with more great ideas for decorating your home throughout the seasons.

Home Decorating News

2010-11-15T06:53:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been a busy few months! I've finished the decorating book and am working on the final edits. You can get a sneak peak at the first chapter at the Home Decorating for the Real World site.

Also, just in time for the change in weather, NanasAtticStore.com has new Christmas inventory available! This year there is a wide selection of Christmas decorations, sure to turn your home into a winter wonderland. And don't forget to sign up for the newsletter to get all of the latest sales and inventory updates.

Halloween Décor Ideas-Easy Tips for a Spooky Home

2010-09-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

Haunted houses, black cats, ghosts and goblins everywhere! Halloween is a fun time of year for children and adults alike. Do you need some tips for decorating your home for all hallows eve? Try these fun and easy and inexpensive Halloween décor ideas.

Entry: The entry to your home is the first impression visitors get of your home. Too often we forget how much impact this can have when decorating for the seasons.

• Halloween Display. Make the most of it by creating a simple display of Halloween figurines set on a small table covered with a black or orange tablecloth. The 4 to six inch figurines are inexpensive enough to even use outside if you have room enough for a small table by your door. Inside, you can go with this same concept, even adding spooky lights and garlands available at dollar and discount stores.

• Animated Items. Animated Halloween figures can add instant festivity to a boring entry table. These figures can move, have sound, and some are even motion activated. A great way to make your entrance one to remember! With increasing popularity, these items are now appearing in dollar and discount stores.

Living Room/Family Room: To dress up the rooms where your family spends the most time, use most of your Halloween décor ideas in these rooms.

• Figurine Display. Use your mantle, a wall shelf, of even your coffee table to display an assortment of inexpensive Halloween figurines. Mantles are normally overlooked until Christmas, but fireplaces are a great staging area for many seasonal displays.

• Halloween Curtain Tie-Backs. To add a spooky touch to your room, add a garland of skeleton heads as tie-backs to your curtains. These garlands are available at most dollar stores and one garland can be cut in half to use on a pair of curtains, you can use another garland across the top for a little added Halloween fun.

• Candy Bowls. Halloween is all about candy. Display candy corn and other themed candy in bowls for a decorative and tasty touch.

Dining Room: turn any October meal into a Halloween party with fun and expected seasonal touches.

• Spider Napkin Rings. Turn any napkin ring into a Halloween hit by using hot glue to attach the spiders from cheap Halloween rings to a napkin ring. These are very inexpensive and normally sold in bags at discount and dollar stores. A very small investment for a unique decorative touch.

• Placemats and Tablecloths. Go ahead and invest in either an orange or black tablecloth or placemats. This simple change adds instant Halloween charm to any table.

• Spooky Centerpiece. Add a touch of the unexpected with a large glass bowl filled with tiny skulls. These can be purchased either in a bag or attached to a garland that can be coiled inside the bowl.

Outside: Only the Christmas season surpasses Halloween when it comes to outside decorations. Be the talk of the neighborhood with decorations that go beyond the predictable jack-o-lanterns.

• Tombstones. Turn your front yard into a graveyard with tombstones made from inexpensive foam board and a little paint. Thinner than the ones you can purchase in stores, you can personalize these for your family (pretty morbid), your favorite horror film characters, or with funny inscriptions.

• Animated Items. Add a little of the unexpected with animated Halloween items near your front door. These characters can move or speak, but remember that smaller children are often frightened by these. Since gaining popularity in recent years, these items are fairly inexpensive and available online and in most stores during the Halloween season.

• Window Dressings. Turn your windows into Halloween hallmarks with simple black poster board and a little creativity. Cut out designs of witches, ghosts, and other Halloween figures (pumpkin carving kits have excellent templates) from a full sheet of poster board. Tape the sheet over the inside of your windows, when you turn your lights on inside, they illuminate the cut out to show your spooky creations to passersby.

These ideas will get you started on your Halloween decorating, get creative and see what spooky surprises you can create.

Fall Table Decorations: A New Style for 2010 with Maple Leaf Tableware

2010-08-26T17:21:00.000-07:00

Fall table decorations get a face lift for this year with fun maple leaf dinnerware. Now is your opportunity to get away from the predictable table setting with these fashionable and fun plates that that give the fall table a whole new look.
The autumn season is approaching and with it comes the assurance of autumn festivities. Kick your season off right by following one of the latest dinnerware trends of the season with maple leaf themed dinnerware. This unique new trend will change your harvest table into a work of art without the usual themed dishes that lacks color and personality.

This season, autumn decorating styles have moved more to traditional designs with more concentration on colors and textures. When using colorful maple leaf dishes, you can dump the usual fall table decorations such as containers of flowers, vivid tablecloths, and so forth. This style makes setting an autumn table fast and very easy.

To get the most out of this trend, experiment with the sizes and colors. One example would be to use the earthy brown plates with mugs of a contrasting color and bowls of still another color. If you have a favorite autumn tablecloth, you can still use this style and design, but go instead for matching the tableware pieces in a color that contrasts to your table linen. The concept is to make your fall table decorations vibrant and eye catching.

These fall table decorations are showing up outside the dining room also, they might appear in the family room as festive containers for pinecones or autumn goodies. The understated design and style makes it simple and easy to move these pieces from room to room and function to function.

Now that you know about the hottest trend in fall table decorations, where will you put it to use?

Autumn Candles: 3 Ways to Utilize This New Idea for the 2010 Fall Season

2010-08-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

Working with autumn candles will make you think about fall decorating in a whole new light. These simple decorative accents bring the scent and look of the harvest season to your household without the expense of traditional fall decorations. Learn new tactics to use autumn candles and add a fresh look to your autumn decorating plans.

Decorating for the fall season can get costly swiftly and considering the state of the economy, many of us are fighting to uncover ways to cut corners. This does not mean that you have to ditch decorating your home this autumn season; it only means that you have to be a tad bit more imaginative and autumn themed candles and accessories are the perfect answer.

Fun Harvest Mantle Display: A quick and simple style for the 2010 fall season is to remove all your decorative accessories from your mantle and place a simple leaf garland over the top and place candles in deep fall tones within the garland. For safety, take into consideration using battery operated candles that still give that flickering light only without the risk of a real burning candle.

Flirty Autumn Bedroom: Candles set a romantic mood. To provide a touch of harvest ambiance, use candles in fun seasonal inspired holders. You not only get the romantic mood, but a reminder of frosty nights to come that will make you want to snuggle up close.
Fantastic Autumn Table Accents: Why use a boring flower arrangement when you can use a beautiful exhibit of autumn candles in the center of the table? Candles of various sizes on a glass candle plate are both understated and elegant. Light those for when your family gathers at the table and it will transform any meal into a fall celebration.

When decorating for the fall season, in many cases it is the ordinary decorative accents that make the most impact. Now that you have a few ideas, how are you going to use autumn candles in your seasonal decorating plans?

Fall Wreaths for 2010: Delightful New Fads for This Fall Season

2010-08-20T13:28:00.000-07:00

The 2010 fall season is will be here before you know it and the fall wreaths for this season offer new trends and styles that make decorating for autumn quick and easy. Explore the new design of fall wreaths for the 2010 autumn season.

Dried Fall Wreaths: This fall, the arrangements are concentrating more on traditional elements. The best selling designs feature dried floral materials in contrasting hues. This makes the arrangement an instant focal point, perfect for front doors as the color contrast draws your eye even from the street or sidewalk. For those that hate artificial flowers, preserved wreaths are a way to cut the cost ın contrast to live arrangements and can last for many years with special care.

Silk Fall Wreaths: Artificial Flowers have really improved in the past few years from their ugly beginnings. This fall season, artificial flowers add vibrant fall color to fall wreaths. These arrangements can be understated wreaths of autumn colored leaves or the more intricate designs featuring autumn florals. Often these designs are so realistic, it is difficult to tell that they are not made up of fresh florals even when only standing a few inches away. Long lasting and a lot more sturdy than preserved wreaths, silk might be the best alternative if your design will be subjected continuously to the weather.

Autumn Berry Fall Wreaths: The topic of the fall season has always been the harvest and the wreaths for 2010 accentuate that by featuring harvest berries in quite a few designs. This choice is fantastic for those that favor a more subtle and understated arrangement over the types mentioned above. Designed in the amazing colors of autumn, these wreaths feature bunches of striking fall berries that immediately bring to mind food and the harvest feast.

A gorgeous fall wreath adds a feeling of the harvest season to your front door, putting you in the mood for the cooler nights and hot apple cider. Consider your own tastes and needs as you choose your arrangement, bearing in mind both cost and durability.

Now that you are ready to decorate for the harvest season, why not add a fall wreath to your fall decorating plans?

Great Prices on Fall Decor at NanasAtticStore.com!

Really Easy Fall Decorations: Exciting Harvest Projects for the Entire Family

2010-08-20T12:45:00.000-07:00

Fall is going to be here before you know it and so now is the time to think about your seasonal decorations. Get the family along side each other for some serious fall amusement with these very easy fall decorations! These types of projects are certain to get the entire family taking part with the harvest festivities.

Seasonal Harvest Window Container: Take a step away from conventional window box creations of chrysanthemums or pansies. This fall season, why not have a shot at something totally new? Put a layer of straw or dried grass to the window box, making sure that a little of it gently falls down the front and sides. Collect gourds and pumpkins of numerous shapes, styles, and shades; organize these in your window containers for a fun harvest display. For increased family fun, have the children color happy expressions on the pumpkins! If the kids are older, shiny paint in deep autumn colors will add a lttle bit of bling to the window box and involve them with the project.

Beautiful Harvest Porch: As soon as the summer season passes, our porches can often be left deserted and forgotten about. Turn that bare porch into a platform for your fall decorations! The staircase leading to your porch can be adorned on each side with sizeable pumpkins, decorated by the children as implied above. And then for more color, purchase a metal wreath frame from a craft retailer and deploy the children outside into the garden to gather fall leaves. Using floral craft wire and a glue gun, affix the leaves to the frame. This gives you a one of a kind wreath that the entire family helped make.

Wonderful Fall Potpourri: Absolutely nothing sets the mood of fall above the rich scents of cinnamon and apple in dense cider-like aromas. Fill your home with that scrumptious aroma while developing long-term memories with your family by creating your own autumn potpourri! Send the kids out into the backyard to harvest the last blossoms of the garden, pinecones, and even thick dried leaves. Coarsely chop these and add them to a glass bowl. Get your preferred liquid potpourri oils in harvest scents and toss it throughout the recovered garden goods. Cover with plastic and let it cure for a few weeks and your family now has its own signature potpourri blend!

Fall Leaf Collage: It is tough to entirely change your décor with the seasons, but you and your family can come up with a one-of-a-kind focal point for your family room. Accompany your children out into the lawn and collect leaves, but this time make sure that the leaves are still pliable. Let them gather a good deal, this project requires lots of leaves. Back inside; press these leaves between the pages of a heavy book for about a week until they are smooth and flat. Buy a large picture frame from a discount store, the bigger the better! Make it possible for the children help you glue the leaves to an inexpensive sheet of poster board that has been cut to fit the frame. I suggest cutting the stems off the leaves, but my daughter prefers to leave them attached, it’s a matter of preference. Once the whole board is embellished, let it to dry, and spray with dried floral preservative. Put your masterpiece in the frame and enjoy your family’s artwork!

These are a few fun fall crafts for you and your family. Why not supplement your creations with some trendy fall decorations? Get the whole family involved this autumn season and establish traditions for years to come!

Low Priced Fall Decorations

Fall Decorating Done Affordably: Simple Strategies to Provide Your House a Touch of the Season

2010-08-20T08:33:00.000-07:00

We all love to see homes decorated for the changing seasons, but in today’s mad world, who on earth has the time? Fall decorating has never been so simple! Follow these simple measures to transform your house into a fun autumn season showplace in a small amount of time.

These days we are stressed at work, running on empty to taxi our little ones to and fro, and our time is very precious. Too often we compromise the ordinary seasonal pleasures because we simply cannot find the time. Well cheer up, fall decorating this season is quick and simple.
Autumn Wreaths: Almost nothing creates the tone for a fall house like a decorative wreath. Save yourself the inconvience of attempting to create your own by obtaining a pre-made wreath on the internet. These arrangements have come a long way in recent times and will bring fall beauty to your entry way immediately. If you are just going to add one piece of harvest décor, this is the one to buy for the most impact. Hanging wreaths has never been less difficult with the new inexpensive wreath hangers available at most hobby stores.
Autumn Mantle: An easy technique to add a fall touch to your home is to accent the fireplace mantle. Normally only decorated at Christmas, mantles are the ideal staging for autumn displays. Drape a harvest garland for a speedy fix or arrange harvest themed figures such as pumpkins and gourds for a colorful focal point. Just introducing a few objects will give a fall theme to any room.
Fall Entrance: A fast way to add autumn decorations to your home is to begin with the entrance. It doesn't necessarily have to be elaborate. A basic display of pumpkins flanking your porch steps, a seasonal autumn themed window box, or an uncomplicated arrangement of pumpkins and gourds next to the front door.
To get your fall decorating underway, you may do one or all of these projects. All three could easily be completed in less than one afternoon. Regardless of how on the run you are, there is no reason why you should not enjoy bringing the harvest season to your house.

NanasAtticStore.com Great Prices on Fall Decor!

Autumn Décor for 2010

2010-08-13T16:12:00.001-07:00

Forget About Boring Pumpkins and Gourds…Autumn Décor for 2010 is Fresh and Exciting

It doesn’t matter if you revel in the season or prefer to just let it drift on by with a friendly nod; there is autumn décor that is the perfect match to your home and your personality. We’ve checked out the hottest decorating trends for this fall season and included pictures and links so that your home can be the picture of the autumn spirit!

Autumn Colors for 2010

The colors for the fall season this year have stepped back to the basics of harvest splendor. The colors are richer and deeper in tone than in years past. Think of earthy gold tones, deep brown greens, and rust colored accents. Adding a touch of these to your home will instantly put you in the mood for the crisp fall season.

Autumn Fabrics for 2010

This year the fabrics for autumn are comforting. Soft chenille in fun fall shades, warm flannel appears in both standard bedding and decorative throws. Green is more than just a color this year as many manufacturers make the move to organic blends.

Autumn Accessories for 2010

The accents and accessories of this autumn season have moved beyond scarcrows to more elegant ways to show your fall spirit. While the traditional displays of gourds remain popular, autumn themed candle accessories allow you to spread your seasonal decorating throughout the house with minimal investment. Glass and mosaic designs in rich harvest tones seem to be the must have of the fall season.

Autumn Wreaths for 2010

This year, perhaps in response to the economy, silk florals have gained popularity. Stunning fall inspired wreaths are gracing the doors of homes across the country. The styles range from grapevine with a hint of silk foliage to full wreath designs of silk foliage and miniature pumpkins.

Autumn Garlands for 2010

Garlands have moved away from gracing doors and windows and have now come to rest on tops of mantels. Again, as silk florals regain popularity, garlands are being seen as a quick and easy way to add seasonal décor to a home in an inexpensive way that generates a big visual impact.

Autumn Centerpieces for 2010

Again, in a nod to the current economy, live arrangements are falling by the wayside and silks are taking their place. The glitz and shimmer this year will be reserved for the Thanksgiving table. Autumn centerpieces this year will be smaller and more understated with more focus on the container than on the foliage. Designs are moving toward goblet designs, unique bowls, and one-of-a-kind vases. When vases are out of the limelight, the arrangement follows a more traditional design of understated elegance.

Enjoy low cost luxury with NanasAtticStore.com

Modern Bedroom Ideas: Design a Contemporary Bedroom In 5 Quick Steps

2010-08-06T09:18:00.000-07:00

Our bedrooms are a retreet from the rest of the world. The simplicity of modern bedroom designs creates a serenity that makes that feeling even more prevalent. The tips below will help you create a modern bedroom. Here's how you can create a contemporary bedroom in 5 easy steps.

Step 1: Paint Color. This is very important because the color of the walls is a hallmark to a modern bedroom. Neutrals are always a good choice, but think outside the box and consider neutral shades of gray and green. These create a soothing background for contemporary bedrooms that is more interesting and trendy than boring shades of beige. A popular choice is red, a brave option that works well with Asian themes. If you are not up for painting the room, you can always just keep your current wall color. Even if it is just plain white, the selections that you make for the rest of the room can make almost any color workable.

Step 2: Furniture. This is a very important step. Modern bedroom furniture is sleek in design and kept to a minimum in designs. It is usually darker woods or metal that is used. You can still use your current furniture by simply giving it a fresh coat of paint or stain to darken the tone. The bedroom furniture is not a focus in modern designs, so don't stress if you can't afford to buy a new bed. In modern bedrooms, it is the look and feel of the entire room that creates a successful design.

Step 3: Bedding. What we are going to do here is to select bed linens with a hint of simple luxury. Remember that the current trend is to bring all of the bed linen out into the open. It will not be just your comforter or duvet that will be seen, but also your sheets, pillowcases, and throws. Look at pictures in catalogs or check out some decorating television shows to get ideas for staging your bedding in the contemporary "unmade" fashion of today.

Step 4: Get Rid of the Clutter. To elaborate on that a bit, modern bedrooms are known for their clean simplicity. It's impossible to achieve that look and feel when it looks like a yard sale exploded in your room. Get rid of all nonessential items and put shoes and clothes back in the closet where they belong.

Step 5: Accessories. Keep the accessories to a minimum in modern bedrooms such as only a few key pieces. These pieces can have a big impact such as a large framed print or an elegant vase. The room should not be crowded with accents that draw your attention in every direction, it should be clean and clutter-free. Just a few carefully chosen pieces complete the room.

The internet is a great place to search for modern bedroom ideas! You will create the bedroom of your dreams in no time if you create and solid design plan and follow through. Happy decorating!

Create a Moroccan Inspired Bedroom

2010-08-06T09:15:00.000-07:00

Your bedroom is your sanctuary from the world, a place where you can escape the rest of the world and retreat into your own private space. Why not make your bedroom into an exotic getaway? The answer might just be a moroccan inspired bedroom. Create your own exotic hideaway by following these steps.

Step 1: Wall Color. Bid those white walls an overdue farewell! The paint colors for this design are a vivid mix of bright jewel tones and rich earth tones. You will need to use a deep jewel tone for the walls and a deep warm tone for the trim and door. This far different from what we have all been taught about wall colors. Without making this important change, you will have a bedroom theme that appears incomplete.

Step 2: Furniture. Moroccan designs use an eclectic mix of furniture. The furniture used in moroccan designs is normally darker in tone, but light colored furniture can be given a new look with a quick coat of paint or stain.

Step 3: Moroccan Bedding. The bedding used in moroccan bedrooms is usually very luxurious. Consider layering bedding of solid colors made from lush materials like velvet or satin. Use many pillows in many shapes and sizes, add a solid throw in a lush material, and perhaps even a canopy in another rich color. It is the constant use of different colors that make up a successful moroccan design.

Step 4: Window Curtains. The drapes used in this design should be long and flowing, again mixing bright colors and luxurious fabrics. Rich jewel toned sheer curtains under velvet or satin-like drapes. For added impact add an edging of fringe to the drapes in the color of the sheers and use tassel tie backs in the same shade.

Step 5: Moroccan Accessories. A significant point to keep in mind here is variety. The moroccan theme is based in the variety of the accessories such as carved wood decor, metal wall decor, candle lanterns, pottery and vases, and bright rugs. Add decorative accessories a little at a time until you have the balance and feel just right.

By following these steps, you have created your Moroccan inspired bedroom, sit back and enjoy the benefits of your hard work. Itâ€™s like taking a vacation without ever leaving the house!

Create Your Own Princess Bedroom Theme in 4 Easy Steps

2010-08-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

Is your daughter a little princess that is dreaming of a magical bedroom that will make all of her little friends jealous. Sheâ€™s wanting something unique, that no one else has, and youâ€™re wondering how on earth to give her what she wants without resorting to the predictable themed bedding available on the market. Well, itâ€™s time to get crafty and create your own princess bedroom theme.

Step 1: Wall Color Try to think outside the norm when selecting a wall color for your daughter's room. Pink is an option, but with all the other options out there, why limit yourself to something so predictable? You could still do deeper shades of pinks, but also consider minty greens or pale lavenders. You can also get artistic and create stripes with each of these colors by masking off areas with painting tape.

Step 2: Bedroom Furnishings You might be able to still use the current furniture in your daughter's room depending upon her age. You can change the look of the furniture by giving it a quick coat of white paint, or if you're more brave, a shimmering coat of silver. You can design a custom headboard by printing out a clipart picture of a crown and taking it to a copy shop to have it enlarged to a workable size. Using that enlargement as your template, cut her new headboard out of plywood and attach it to the bed. For added sparkle, purchase cheap rhinestones or plastic jewels from a craft store and glue them to the furniture.

Step 3: Princess Inspired Bedding Bedding for a princess bedroom theme can be as simple or as elaborate as you would like. Of course satin-like fabrics and lace fit right in, but for small little girls this may not be a practical choice. Remember, simple solid bedding can be transformed with a few tassels or fancy edging. Unless you really like to sew, use heat tape to save yourself some time and trouble. Also, an inexpensive tulle canopy adds an instant royal touch that can be improved upon further with a few more of the jewels that you used on the furniture. Hint1: Use a bejeweled window scarf to surround the doorway for a royal entrance.. Hint 2: Add a few more jewels or window tassels to a plain bed skirt for more sparkle.

Step 4: Decorative Accessories Get creative with the accessories for this theme! For example, take a pair of worn out high heels and give them a quick spray of silver glitter paint. To carry the idea further, embellish the shoes a bit more by adding a small piece of florist foam and insert gift bows and ribbons attached to floral picks and you have a very unique accent piece (preferably placed out of reach). A fuzzy rug and accent pillow and youâ€™re done!

Follow these steps to create a princess bedroom theme for your daughter that no one else will have. Remember to let her help with the project, while it may take you more time to create her beautiful bedroom, but it will be worth it for the beautiful memories with your little princess.

Create an Understated and Elegant Safari Themed Bedroom in 5 Easy Steps

2010-08-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

I love animal prints and safari decor, but was unsure about decorating my small bedroom in this theme. I worried that it would be too overpowering and intense for my small bedroom. I wanted something elegant and understated, it took me a while, but I came up with a solution. Here are the same steps that I followed to create an understated and elegant safari themed bedroom

Step 1: Paint Colors. Good news! Hopefully, you still have those off-white or beige walls. If not, grab your paint brush. These warm neutrals make the best backdrop for a safari theme.

Step 2: Bedroom Furniture. This design works best with dark colored furniture ranging from a dark oak to black. Don't worry if you have white or light colored furniture, you can give it a quick coat of paint or stain to deepen the color.

Step 3: Bedding for a Safari Theme. The bedding that you select will set the tone and intensity of your room. You can opt for actual safari themed bedding, but often that is too overpowering for smaller rooms. If you are worried about that happening, try using cream colored bedding instead like a simple comforter set that includes the bed skirt. To bring out the theme, use heat tape to attach sheer window scarves in your favorite animal print as an overlay to the bed skirt. To finish off the bed, add a few accent pillows and a throw in the same print.

Step 4: Curtains and Drapes. We can use the same idea we used on the bed skirt for the windows. To add a custom touch, place a sheer boarder at the top or bottom of a pair of plain cream colored drapes. This understated touch brings the room together.

Step 5: Decorative Accessories. Since we have kept things understated up to this point, you can really go wild with your bedroom accessories. Don't be afraid to use animal figurines such as elephants, tigers, and giraffes. Remember not to underestimate pillar candles in fun animal prints for added impact.

By following these steps, you will create an elegant safari themed bedroom while keeping within your decorating budget. So get going on your new project and let out your wild side!

Express Your Creativity with a Whimsical Bedroom

2010-08-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

There are so many bedroom themes and styles out there that one would think that the possibilities are endless, but after a while, donâ€™t they all seem too predictable and copied too many times? Why copy what someone else has already done? Express yourself by designing your own whimsical bedroom!

The good thing with this design style is that there are no rules. You have free reign to let your own tastes and creativity shine without being confined to the principles of a particular style or trend. So how do you create this expressions of freedom without the final result looking like a garage sale exploded in what was once your bedroom? The answer will suprise you, but it is a whole new way to think about decorating and how to plan a room.

The simplest way to begin is to search for bedroom photos on the computer and for pictures in magazines that catch your eye. Sort these photos by selecting what it is that you like about that picture. Is it the overall color scheme? Did the bedding really wow you? What about the decorative accessories? Keep doing this until you have about five pictures in groups of color ideas, bedding ideas, and accessory ideas.

This is where it gets fun. Pick out your very favorite from each group. Don't think about how they go together, thatâ€™s not the point. All you want to do is pick out your very favorite picture from each group. Once you do this, you have your whimsical bedroom.

Did that make it sound too easy? It shouldn't. Since you are not distracted by how these selections will work together, you are free to decorate in a truly impulsive (i.e. whimsical) style.

Take a good look at the picture that you chose out of the color group. Why did you pick it as you favorite for the color group? Is it the actual color or is it the way that the color works with the bedding? If it is the actual color, then you need to find a version of your bedding photo choice that will work with that color. If it is how the color compliments the bedding, then you need to select your colors based on your bedding photo choice. Use this same method with the accessories and you're all finished!

By removing the rules of decorating and designing a room this way, you can create a truly unique room that shows your personality in a way that theme decorating never could. A whimsical bedroom is the perfect way to discover your own decorating style. So get to work and let the real you shine through!

Decorating for Fall: Fall Silk Flowers

2010-07-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

We loathe to be honest, but summer is drawing to an end and all too quickly the cool autumn winds will be blowing in. IKnstaed of mourning the loss of sunny summer days, why not celebrate autumn by adding a hint of the harvest to your home with arrangements of fall silk flowers?

Silk flowers have progressed from the days of cheap plastic leaves and ugly colors. The silk flowers presently are of a good quality. So much so, that individuals might have a frustrating time telling live from artificial even just a few inches away. The fall silk flowers readily available are no exception.

Celebrate the vivid and bright colors of the autumn season by organizing autumn colored leaves in a basket or earth toned vase. A centerpiece like this can be as fancy or as basic as your decor requires. To add a natural result, bend a few of the stems to cascade down the side of the container and out around the centerpiece. To add a pleasant autumn impression, fasten ears of harvest corn to floral picks and place between the leaves.

One more idea for fall silk flowers is to decorate a wreath for your front door with vibrant artificial leaves, autumn flowers, and fall berries. For a whimsical touch, glue a diminutive scarecrow from the discount store to the edge of your wreath in a relaxing position. Any guests coming to your front door will be immediately taken by the spirit of the season!

On the lookout for something really very easy? Why don't you experiment with an autumn swag? Obtain numerous dried branches; add some silk autumn leaves, an autumn flower or two, a bow, and you're done! There is no limit to the options when working with artificial flower items!

You now have a couple of ideas for using silk floral this season, why don't you add some fall silk flowers to your fall accents.

Create Immediate Color to Any Home with Gerbera Silk Flowers

2010-07-28T08:06:00.000-07:00

Do you desire a quite simple approach to add style to any room of your home? Each one of us has that ignored corner, ledge, or fireplace that needs simply that little extra something to make it snap with personality. Why not add a centerpiece of gerbera silk flowers for an instantaneous touch of color and style?

Gerbera daisies are bright colored blooms and the silk options on the market nowadays are of such top quality that an individual would have problems recognizing natural from synthetic even just a few inches away. The time has passed of cheap plastic and hideous colors. Today silk flowers are of higher quality and appear in a wide range of natural colors and styles. Take advantage of this by utilizing these enchanting flowers to include bright splashes of color to a space for a fraction of the cost of real flowers.

When selecting an arrangement of gerbera silk flowers look for good quality as well as style. Glass floral vases with gerbera stems and liquid illusion are a wise decision, creating the impression of a fresh bouquet. This kind of arrangement works well in contemporary room designs due to its simplicity.

Another option is to utilize a decorative wreath of gerbera silk flowers. Even though this will probably be more difficult to get in the premade version, it would be a relatively easy project to take on yourself with a number of stems and a grapevine wreath from an arts and craft store. The finished wreath could be used as a ring for a triple wick candle or as wall decor.

Why should you limit yourself to just one arrangement? There are a lot of smaller gerbera centerpieces in the marketplace today which are often sold in sets. These are generally excellent possibilities for bathrooms and kitchens where a larger sized arrangement would take up an excessive amount valuable space.

Now that you have learned the advantages of utilizing artificial flowers in your home and the different options available, why not add some gerbera silk flowers to your redecorating plans?

Autumn Decorating Idea: Simple Harvest Centerpiece

2010-07-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

The harvest months is a really good time to get those decorating and imaginative juices flowing, but take a chance and go beyond the standard cornucopia to a very modern day arrangement that can comfortably be constructed during a damp afternoon. Wouldn't you love to come up with a one of a kind arrangement that nobody else has? Follow these steps to create your own harvest centerpiece.

Materials:
Clear Glass Vase 12 Inches Tall or More.
Small Plastic or Foam Pumpkins and Gourds.
Autumn Themed Ribbon
Moss
2 Blocks of Flower Foam
1 Silk Autumn Leaf Bush
2 Artificial Autumn Bushes of Your Choice (Mums, Daisies)
Floral Picks
Glue Gun and Glue.

Instructions:
Cut a small square of foam and secure it to the inside bottom of the vase.
Cover with moss.
Take out the wire from the floral picks and glue the picks to the pumpkins and gourds.
Insert the pumpkins and gourds in the foam inside the vase, trimming the picks as needed.
Cut Ribbon to wrap around the neck of the vase and secure with glue.
Trim foam to fit into the top of vase and secure with glue.
Cover with moss.
Cut fall leaf bush into stems of varying lengths (2-3 inches).
Cut harvest floral bushes into stems of varying lengths (2-3 inches).
Starting with the silk leaves, place the stems into the foam throughout the arrangement, allowing some to drape down the side. Fill in the excess space with the stems from the 2 floral bushes and remaining pumpkins and gourds.

This is a modern twist to the classic cornucopias and fall baskets that have been used in fall decor for years. This straightforward design is easy to design and offers no end of choices in color and silk flower selections.

Now that you know how to design this project, why not add this simple and easy harvest centerpiece to your fall decorating plans?

Silk Roses Bouquet: Low-cost Decorative Accent Idea

2010-07-28T07:53:00.000-07:00

Are you seeking an affordable home decor idea? Consider a paper wrapped silk roses bouquet. This throwback to the Victorian days is a fairly easy decorating project which could be made in less than an hour and will give an immediate splash of color and old world style to a room. Follow these basic steps for making your own silk roses bouquet.

Supplies:
Artificial Roses
Medium Sized Secondary Flower
Silk Floral Tape
Paper (Wrapping or Large Scrapbook Sheet)
Glue
Ribbon

1. Decide on your blossoms. Silk roses are available in numerous forms and shades. You'll be able to choose full open flowers or tight rosebuds. The color selections differ from natural tones to colors developed to precisely match your decor. To generate a more appealing bouquet, pick a few small blooms as well or use a silk floral bush that has filler such as babyâ€™s breath inside it.

2. Arrange your roses. Should you be using a silk bush, cut the flowers from the bush. Place the individual stems out on a table and begin setting them in an appealing bouquet. You need the longer flowers on the bottom and the shorter ones on top. Once you're satisfied with the end results, secure your bouquet with floral tape.

3. Fold wrapping paper or a large sheet of scrapbook paper into a triangle. Place your secured bouquet on the paper with the blooms over the wide edge, creating a diaper effect and secure with a small drop of glue. For added appeal, tie a ribbon around the small end of the bouquet.

This simple project makes an instant Victorian inspired arrangement that is nothing like most available in the marketplace today and since you are doing it yourself, you can make it as distinctive as you want. This is great for mantels and book shelves. Now that you know how simple this project can be, why not get started on your own silk roses bouquet today?

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Tips on How to Create Silk Floral Arrangements In 5 Quick Steps

2010-07-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Most worthwhile projects or goals require a number of steps and conviction over time to carry out and accomplish. Tasks that are any degree of complexity take time, planning and sticking with it through a number of stages over the course of the project. All of that is also true about anything like designing silk floral arrangements. Here is the best way to do that in 5 easy steps.

Step 1. Select your vase, basket, or container. This could be really crucial since this will decide the size, shape, and style of your arrangement. Unless you really do that step meticulously, it is possible to end up beginning this project again numerous times.

Step 2. If using a solid colored vase or wooden basket, place your foam in the container and secure.. This is normally an important step that demands your full attention. It can be done like this: Cut a piece of florist foam the size of the container opening and secure it to the bottom with either low temperature glue or glue dots that can be purchased at arts and craft stores. Once glued, cover it with moss.. The reason why is this is the building block for your overall centerpiece. It is going to hold the design and weight of all the floral stems. If you happen to be using a clear glass vase, make a grid of string across the top to hold the stems in place.

Step 3. Measure and place your main flowers.. The real motive for this is to be able to cut them before placing them into the foam. Every hole made in the foam weakens it, so the less holes the better off you are. At the same time, it's good to go ahead and begin producing the overall contour of the centerpiece with your main flowers. It will appear a little odd to start with, but this will be your guide for the rest of the arrangement..

Step 4. Measure and place your secondary blooms. To elaborate on that a bit, these are your medium size flowers and bud flowers. They will fill in some of the vacant area left by your main flowers and give more distinction of the arrangement shape..

Step 5. Measure and insert your filler flowers. As the phrase suggests, these flowers are used to fill up the rest of the empty area in the arrangement. If you're making an arrangement with a glass vase using liquid illusion, mix and add the solution now..

You've now made your own work of art! Not thrilled with your results? That is certainly okay, there are several premade silk floral arrangements on the market today. You are able to get the same effects without having all of the effort.
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A New Way to Use Ceramic Rooster Decor: Things Are Looking Up

2010-07-21T18:28:00.000-07:00

All of us like rooster decor, but is it still possible to get a completely unique look with this theme? Face the facts; there are only so many variations of rooster inspired canisters, clocks in rooster designs, and rooster plates. If you need an original kitchen look working with rooster home decor, don't repeat what everyone else is doing. Be creative!

The kitchen only gives modest options when it comes to decorating. Sure you can put a fresh new color on the walls, switch out the cabinet hardware, and swap your decor out for your new concept, but the fact is that's about the only things for you to do. So how can you have a wow look in such a design constrained room?

In the first place, look over your head. Certainly one of the most ignored and uninspiring places in the kitchen is that void where the cupboards do not go all the way to the ceiling. This location is normally utilized for hiding pans and pots that are too bulky for the cabinets below or just for accumulating dust. Why not put that lost space into good use?

Ceramic rooster decor squeezes perfect in this place, contributes a hint of much needed style and color, and gives you an edge over what everybody else is doing. You could go for coordinating roosters, or diverse versions in the same color, or roosters of many different colors.

Are you not willing to give up that storage spot? A quick shelf in your breakfast area or over the window serves the same objective. The target is to get your rooster theme up to out-of-the-ordinary areas, even on top of the refrigerator would be fine in a pinch. It's the sudden appearance of a vibrant ceramic rooster that makes this exciting and extraordinary.

See how very easy it is to include ceramic rooster decor in your kitchen? Why are you hesitating, be unusual and be bold!

Get a Rooster Themed Kitchen: 3 Suggestions for Using Rooster Accents in Your Kitchen

2010-07-21T08:39:00.000-07:00

Are you sprucing up your kitchen and can't make up your mind what theme design you'd like to use? The more popular themes out there is the rooster style and design. With many rooster accents available, it is very easy to get overwhelmed by the different selections. Try these three tips for bringing rooster accents into your kitchen.
1. Kitchen Rugs-The least difficult approach to build a rooster theme fairly quickly is to swap your old kitchen rugs with new ones in a colorful rooster design. This is one of the most handy rooster accents available on the market. This not only sets the tone immediately, but provides that multi-colored focal point that is so essential to any space. Even if you didn't do anything more, this one thing would give you a rooster themed kitchen.

2. Kitchen Canisters-Another fast and simple way to create a rooster themed kitchen is to work with canisters in a rooster design. This is when you have got the most power. Rooster inspired canisters can be bought in a diverse mix of styles, there is the traditional canisters of glass with roosters on the lids, the canisters with a rooster impression on the side, or the daring canisters that are produced in the shape of a rooster. This is a fairly easy rooster accent to obtain and the one that you will have the most alternatives in regards to style and design.

3. Kitchen Linens-Oven mitts and kitchen towels are something that you have to have in your kitchen anyway, so why not put them to work for your theme? There are a wide range of kitchen towel sets and oven mitts in the rooster pattern available today. Frequently you can actually find complementing sets in each. These are the most budget friendly rooster accents that you could invest in and since these are items that you will really use, they are beautiful plus practical.

Rooster accents consist of a multitude of shapes and forms. You can get as many or as little as you wish to produce the rooster inspired kitchen of your dreams. The three ideas above can be your complete decorating plan or you can still go up a notch with salt and pepper sets in a fun rooster design, dishes in a rooster design, or even framed rooster pictures. The opportunities are limitless.

You now know how to successfully set up a rooster styled kitchen, why not put a few rooster accents in your kitchen today?

French Rooster Decor: Forget About The Kitchen! The Very simple Approach to Include Rooster Decor to Any Room

2010-07-21T07:35:00.000-07:00

French rooster decor is now without doubt one of the fastest expanding kitchen theme fads in the last few years. Its level of popularity is built on the widespread color choices and quick implementation into virtually any kitchen. Have you been hunting for the best way to include this hot fad into your own home without changing your kitchen into a barnyard? There are a large number of ways to include rooster decorations into your home without even going entering the kitchen.

Interior designs utilizing rooster decorations are founded on the French country design style. This design incorporates a large range of color pallets and has a friendly and informal feel. It is a blend of old world luxury and traditional appeal. This is why its a great path to take if you are living in an existing older property and wishing to give it a luxurious appearance or if you're in a new house and wishing to get far away from the starkness of modern day interior designs.

Using Color in French Country: The colors in French country designs may very well be just about anything from vibrant red hues, stunning blacks, sunny yellows, aged green hues, to traditional hues of blue. The fabrics put to use are traditional in character, usually with toile decorative accents in throws, throw pillows, and window treatments. Area rugs are utilized to add a splash of color to natural floorings of wood or stone.

Home furniture for French Country: The furniture pieces used in French country decorating is traditional in design and style. Luxuriant wood pieces of furniture with low sheens or aged finishes work well with this theme, turning it into an economical design as you could repurpose pieces that have been overlooked and gathering dust in storage.

French Country Accessories: The decorative accents of use in French country room designs are based mostly in nature elements including baskets and vases of bouquets or the favored French country rooster décor. These decorative accents are consistent through the space and used in varying sizes. Including multi-colored framed art prints of roosters, bookends in a rooster motif, and possibly a couple rooster statues will bring an instant French country touch to your room.

You have now learned the basic principles of this design style, you can see how very easy it truly is to incorporate French country rooster decor to a space other than the kitchen. Let your decorating juices flow and give people something to "crow" about when they come to your home.

Free Decorating Ideas and Advice

Make Your Own Decorative Boxes

2010-07-11T19:30:00.000-07:00

This is a fun and simple project for the entire family and the decorative boxes can be used for gifts, keepsakes, or as home décor accents. With a little artistic talent, your own imagination, and a few craft supplies, it’s easy to create decorative boxes that you will be proud to display.

Supplies:

Box Forms

Various Scrapbook Paper Sheets

Decoupage Medium

Rhinestones (optional)

Jewelry Glue (optional)

Select a well lighted area where the entire family can work such as the kitchen table or countertop. Save yourself a headache later by protecting your workspace with plastic sheeting or newspapers. Now that you’re all set, follow these simple steps to complete your first decorative box project.

1. Cut the scrapbook sheets into random strips, squares, or triangles. Apply a thin coat of the decoupage medium to an area of the box and place a piece of the scrapbook paper. Repeat this for the rest of the box and lid using various pieces of paper.

2. Once the box and lid are covered, allow them to thoroughly dry. Apply another coat or two of the decoupage medium to the box and lid to seal the paper permanently to the box.

3. Allow the box and lid to dry again, possibly for a day or two.

4. If you desire, glue rhinestone to the box using jewelry glue. You can follow an actual pattern, or place them randomly over the box and lid.

Once you and your family complete your first decorative box, you may be tempted to try other techniques such as painting, stamping, or covering the box with fabric. The possibilities are endless and the only limitation is your imagination.

Not the crafty type? No fear, there are many decorative boxes on the market today that will match your home décor or make the perfect gift.

NanasAtticStore.com

How to Have a Romantic Night with Scented Candles

2010-07-05T21:39:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for new and romantic ways to spice up your love life? Why not use scented candles to create a romantic atmosphere?

The methods of aromatherapy has long been implemented to influence emotional behavior, increase liveliness, or encourage the development of peacefulness. The sense of smell has deep associative potential. A tiny sniff of a specific fragrance might make us visualize home, evenings on a stream, or crisp harvest afternoons. Each scent brings with it its own emotions and visuals in our heads, for example lavender or chamomile for sleep and peace. This same strategy applies to your love life.

To prepare a romantic night, place scented candles throughout the space in various locations. The strategy is to create a gentle shining light that will soften the visual aspect of your bodily flaws while letting your companion know straight away that they are in for something special!
Are you in need of help deciding on that perfect scent? You could select ordinary vanilla, but why not try out something especially fashioned for creating that old romantic mood?
Cinnamon or Pumpkin Pie: The old saying is valid. The path to a man’s heart is through his stomach and aromas that remind him of these baked things will quickly put him in the mood for love. These spicy scents are the ideal method to liven up your love life!

Jasmine: This woodsy flower scent might appear a little old fashioned but it is a feminine fragrance that brings out the passionate side of even the most manly male. And what lady wouldn’t appreciate a little old fashioned romance?

Ylang Ylang: This aroma has long been used as an aphrodisiac because of its soothing and mood elevating benefits. A fantastic choice if your guy can’t seem to loosen up after a difficult day at the office. This will have him thinking about anything but the paperwork waiting for him.

Oranges: The essential oils found in oranges were used by the people of Egypt as an aphrodisiac and there was no greater temptress than Cleopatra. Known for ages for its arousal qualities, the aroma of oranges may be the most potent of all the romantic scents. Use with caution! (Or wild abandon, the choice is yours.)

Juniper: This one comes from my own practical experience. Out of all the fragrances and body sprays that I have tried, this one had men stopping me in the street to compliment me on its aroma (much to the dismay of their dates!)
Go shopping for your scented candles meticulously, locating your favorite from the recommendations outlined above. Use them to contribute a little extra romance to your date night and watch the sparks fly!

A Great New Glance at Country Home Décor

2010-06-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

While you glance through designing publications, you come across page after page and photograph after photograph of barren modern day designs and accents in sterile and clean appearing rooms. Are you craving for something more warm and enticing? Certainly, you don't seem all by yourself. A return to country home décor is gaining ground across the country.

Country home décor has held its standing as a popular decorating trend all through the decades, thanks to its eclectic style and lack of any stern regulations. It’s all about home and family, a style where it is not only appropriate, but required to showcase personal collections and pictures. So how can you make a comfortable home using country home décor?
The most simple way to redecorate using country décor is to get started with with a focal point. This can be a group of your favorite collectibles, a bright colored art print, or anything that grabs your imagination. There are primitive accessories, folk art accents, artificial flowers, and many more. You will then begin almost all your color selections on this. Settle upon complimentary colors or contrasting colors, depending on the mood you would like to produce.
If you could possibly be acquiring brand new furniture, keep in mind comfort and ease first and foremost and style second. Almost any home furnishings may be transformed to country style by means of its environment or with multi-colored blankets and accent cushions. With country home décor, it's all about coziness and usefulness, not the orderly construction and straightforwardness.
Add accents a little at a time until finally you are content with the overall design. Do not forget, with country home décor there isn't any real rules. Your decorative accents could possibly be anything from yard sale finds to items that you discovered online. This overall flexibility renders this style an outstanding solution for people moving into their first home with pretty much second hand items!
Now that you understand the fundamentals of this design style, you will want to step away from the unexciting modern designs and include a little country home décor to your home now!

Home Decor Catalogs on Video

2010-06-21T20:12:00.000-07:00

Just out! A home decor catalog on video for those of us that miss thumbing through home decor catalogs rather than doing blind searches on the internet.

More Home Decor Catalogs on video coming soon to NanasAtticStore.com!

Old World Style with Tuscan Decor

2010-06-14T06:48:00.000-07:00

Tuscan decor is the perfect design trend if you crave casual but elegant style. What other style welcomes you to come in and put your feet up for hours on end? Read on to discover the feel of the Italian countryside in your own home.

The ease and grace of the Italian countryside is represented in the Tuscan decorating style. Warm and weathered walls and floors of beautiful marble and stone, soft romantic lighting, and rich wood furniture are hallmarks of the Tuscan style. This decorating theme welcomes you to relax for long periods. This is a style that is easy to copy in any room thanks to its aged beauty and forgiving design.

Wall Paint: Tuscan wall colors are perfect if you have children and pets! Tuscan homes feature walls in warm tones of beige, brown, or yellow. They are usually textured, a look that can be obtained through faux painting techniques or special paints that give the look of Venetian plaster. The idea is to give your walls a subtle weathered look with warm colors, this is perfect for hiding dirt, smudges, and wall blemishes!

Tuscan Floors: The common flooring in Tuscan decorating is made of marble and stone. This is why it's the perfect design choice for bathrooms and kitchens. If you are implementing this style in a living room, a floor of rich wood would be seen. This type of flooring gives the hint of luxury that is common in Tuscan decorating.

Tuscan Furniture: The furniture used is Tuscan decorating is normally solid wood in rich tones. This is the perfect opportunity to use those traditional pieces throughout your home that have been gathering dust. It doesn't matter if the pieces don't match. One of the great things about Tuscan style is that it is a relaxed style where you can bend the rules of traditional decorating. If you are using Tuscan design in a kitchen or bathroom, you might want to replace a few of your cabinet doors with doors made of glass. Tuscan kitchens and baths often have open cupboards revealing colorful dishes or towels.

Tuscan Lighting: A romantic warm glow is achieved in Tuscan interiors by using globes and shades in beige or tan to soften the light. Another common element in Tuscan decor is the use of wrought iron in lighting fixtures such a chandeliers, table lamps, or in the accents of ceiling lights. This is an easy look to copy by simply updating your current light fixtures.

Accents: The home accents used in Tuscan designs are colorful and bright. Often, vases in vibrant blues and yellows are used. Throws and accents pillows are in bright stripes or floral patterns. When looking for wall accents, candle scones of iron are a good choice as are prints of the Italian countryside. This is where the elegance of Tuscan style rears its head. A few carefully selected pieces will complete your new Tuscan style room and give it that luxurious old world touch.

These ideas are only the starting point of creating relaxed luxury with Tuscan home decor. It is an easy design to copy in any home, so get started on your Tuscan decorating project.

How to Decorate Your Kitchen with Rooster Decor

2010-06-11T09:11:00.000-07:00

The kitchen is where we gather with family and friends, but it is often the most overlooked room in our homes. Update your tired kitchen with trendy kitchen rooster decor.

This popular decorating theme has surpassed its French Country roots to stand alone in the design world. The question is how to avoid slipping into a traditional country style when bringing this theme into your kitchen? Follow these easy ideas to create a rooster themed kitchen that will fit your contemporary home.

Wall Color: The rooster theme has become so popular that the decor comes in a variety of colors including reds, blues, browns, and greens. Thanks to this, we have many options for wall color. We have the option of going bold with a traditional red accent wall or more subtle with earthy green for one wall and warm beige for the others. Experiment until you find something that fits your personality and blends with the rest of your home. If you have always played it safe by using neutral paint colors, take a chance with this project to play with color.

Decorative Accessories: There are many option when it comes to selecting rooster decor as any search online will prove. You can find rooster rugs, rooster canisters, kitchen towels, rooster themed dishes, and more. To keep the rooster theme under control, purchase only a handful of rooster items at a time. The goal is to balance the rooster decor with other decorative accents in coordinating colors to keep the theme under control. It's much easier to go back and add additional rooster items than it is to select the items to return to the store.

Final Tip: There is no magic formula to determine when you have enough rooster décor in your kitchen to create an attractive theme. Bring items in a little at a time and play with their placement until you are pleased with the overall visual effect. This theme can become visually overwhelming quickly, so be sure to take your time and shop around to select the perfect items. When shopping for rooster decor, think about the items you have already purchased for your new kitchen theme and where new rooster decor will go and how they will look with the items you already have. You will get the right look and feel if you take your time.

Once you are finished decorating your new kitchen, invite friends and family over. Take the opportunity to relax and enjoy the compliments on your decorating success.

Giving Your Home Art Deco Style

2010-06-09T11:26:00.000-07:00

When decorating, do you find yourself somewhere in between modernism and traditional? If this sounds like you, consider giving your home art deco style. This décor trend is making a comeback thanks to its clean lines and hints of luxury. The tips below will help you transform your room in classic art deco style.

What is Art Deco? Art Deco is a style of decorating and design that surged into popularity after World War I due to its glamorous style and idustrial touches. Popular movies from the 1930's demonstrate this trend in lush and elegant sets. A simple way to explain this decorating style is that it is modernism with a softer touch using bold colors and geometric shapes. It is an easy trend to bring to life in your own home thanks to the many decorative accessories available today.

Flooring: The typical art deco interior features checkered tiles of black and white or marble. When rugs are used as well, they are usually in a geometric or swirling design. Thanks to the many area rugs available on the market today, copying this idea is easy. By selecting an area rug first, this gives you a starting point for colors and accents.

Lighting: The use of lighting in this style is to give a soft glow and is normally sleek in design. This can include ceiling lights, wall sconces, table lamps, and floor lamps. Often the base of table lamps would be a bronze looking figurine as bronze and glass are a popular fixture of art deco styles. When floor lamps are used, they are generally tall torchiers of metal. Again these are styles that are readily available in stores and online.

Furniture: Art Deco style furniture is often streamlined in design and can be of metal or exotic wood construction. The upholstery is normally or velvet or velour, giving that glamorous touch to the sleek design. Decorative panels can be used as screens and are often black lacquered with the addition of an inset upholstered in luxurious fabric such as leather. This is a project you can do yourself with some scraps from the craft store and an inexpensive room divider or purchase a room screen that is all metal in a swirling design to get a similar effect without the need for crafty talents.

Accents: The Art Deco style is perfect for budget decorating due to the simplicity of the designs. The use of mirrors is common, to add to the authenticity select mirrors in geometric patterns and use them in groups. Colored glass accents add a splash of color and a hint of luxury that is a must have in Art Deco designs. Due to the simplicity of the accents used in Art Deco rooms, many of the items can be purchased at your local dollar store and used in groups to create more visual impact.

Although this style has been in use for generations, it continues to gain popularity as a softer variation of modernism and a more contemporary alternative to traditional designs. With the addition of a few key pieces, it is easy to decorate your home art deco style.

Do It Yourself Home Decorating

2010-06-08T09:11:00.000-07:00

Are you longing for an updated look for your home, but does the idea of decorating have you running for the hills? Well, take heart, despite all the hype about the need to hire a professional designer and other such nonsense, there is no reason why you can't decorate your home yourself like a pro!

Home decorating is nothing more than making your home a reflection of your style and personality. That means there are no right or wrong answers! Sure there are popular trends, but they are just that...trends. Now there are a few guidelines that will help you make your decorating project easier, but these are not set in stone.

It's All About You. Home decorating is not rocket science. Contrary to popular belief, there are no right or wrong ways to go about it. Decorating is nothing more than making your surroundings appealing and enjoyable to you. There is no need to label it with design styles and there is no need to bring in a professional to inform you about what you want in your own home. Look around your home and decide what you like and what you don't, keep what you like and get rid of what you do not. This is your first step.

Pick A Starting Point. Look at each room and see what was left after you took out everything you didn't like. Is there a colorful picture? A rug? Perhaps a small statue or accent piece? Pick your favorite thing out of what is left and you have your starting point. You are going to decorate the entire room around this one object. In my house it was a framed print, but it could be anything.

Color. Throw out everything that you think you know about paint colors. Look at your starting point and notice the colors in it. If it is something plain like a seashell, what colors does it bring to mind such as white beaches and the blue sea. Pick the boldest color from your object, that is what you will paint one wall. When you find that color at the paint store, look at the other colors that coordinate with it to find a color for the other walls. Keep in mind other colors that may be in your object as well.

Fine Details. Now you have your colors and the objects. If you kept your furniture, arrange it as you see fit, if not, now is the time to purchase new. Play around with the placement of the object that you kept until you are please with the result. Add throw pillows in a color from your object as well as window treatments. If you think that you need more accents such as area rugs, throws, framed prints, or such add them now using the same colors that were in the starting object.

Let It Flow. This is the most difficult step to follow. Most homes have open floor plans or two story foyers, and when decorating it is important that each room be unique, but that they also blend in some way together. Otherwise, you're home will seem choppy and incomplete. Pick one element that all the rooms can have in common and use it throughout your home such as color families. For example, in my own home I have a rooster themed kitchen, rooster themed breakfast nook, modern family room, southwest office, traditional dining room, and a traditional foyer. The common element between all of these different rooms is the use of warm earth tones in the furniture and wall color. It doesn't have to be an obvious selection such as that, but something as simple as a framed print in a hallway. Again, using my own home as an example, the master bedroom is Paris themed, the hall bath is Safari, the spare room blue floral, and my daughter's room is fairies. How could I make the upstairs appear unified with such a broad array of colors and themes? It took months before I discovered the common element was a magnolia bloom, each room had a magnolia bloom somewhere in its accents. It was very subtle, but it worked. I ran straight to the flea market and picked up two framed magnolia prints and my home was finished.

Keeping It Real. Remember those pictures in decorating magazines that started you on this quest? Who could resist those perfect rooms? You're desire may be to have your home look just like the homes in those magazines, but the reality is that it never will. In those pictures there are no children running in and out, or pets leaving hair on the floor, or people that just want to spend an afternoon on the couch reading the newspaper. Your home is lived in and it should remain a place for family and friends to gather and relax, not a museum show piece. Never decorate to the point that you can no longer enjoy your home. After all, the entire point of decorating is to make your home more appealing and enjoyable.

Now that you know the basic process of decorating your home yourself, why not pick up a few home decor pieces that fit your style and see where your creativity can take you? The options are endless when it comes to home accents, just be true to yourself.