Create a New Look with DIY Wall Art

Tired of looking at those same old walls? You could spice things up with a mirror here and there, perhaps some nice framed art or even a new coat of paint with a faux finish that transforms flat walls with opulent designs. Or you could go an even more unique route and create unique wall art that is sure to become a conversation piece. 

Photo Credit: Spaces Design by New York Paint & Wall Coverings | Janna Makaeva, Cutting Edge Stencils

Transform a Room with Stencils

Stencils are a great way to create art on your walls without hanging up yet another picture. Stenciling has been used for centuries as a way to make walls look more personal, and it's very simple. All you need are some appealing stencils, the right kind of paint, a steady hand and patience.

Start out with a wall that has been painted your desired color. For the best results, the paint you choose for your stencil should contrast enough to stand out, even in dim lighting. For instance, a black wall with a white stencil can look great, and so can a gray wall with a yellow stencil. The options are endless!

Photo Credit: Spaces Design by New York Paint & Wall Coverings | Janna Makaeva, Cutting Edge Stencils

Depending upon the space and complexity, there are many ways to use your stencils. Attach the stencil to the all with a painter's tape. You can then trace around the stencil openings with a pencil and choose to paint later, or you can dab the paint directly on the stencil. Tracing is usually a preferred method, because it allows you to correct mistakes, such as a stencil that doesn't quite fit appropriately the first time you try it. 

Take your time with stenciling the walls - this is a project meant to draw attention, so you want it to draw attention for all the right reasons and none of the wrong ones!

Collections Make a Big Impression

If stencils seem like too much work, collections can make your wall art easier. If you have particular items you love to collect, your wall art can reflect that part of your personal style. For instance, if you love the outdoors, collect a variety of leaves and put them in inexpensive yet handsome frames. Then attach the frames to the wall in an eye-catching display.

Photo Credit: Eclectic Bedroom design by New York Architect Incorporated

Don't like frames? Put collections directly on the wall! Hang your pictures in various sizes with colorful pins, cover your wall with a giant map that includes flags to mark your travels, or tack your child's drawings up on a wall to create a modern-art installation in your own home.

Go Freestyle!

If none of these orderly things appeal to you, branch out into something whimsical and random. Quotes pinned on a wall in freehand not only look great, but give you the satisfaction of seeing your own handwriting on the wall. Let your kids have a "graffiti" day - give them paints and a few ideas, then set them to work. Budding artists absolutely love to do this in their own rooms. It makes their space extra-special.

Photo Credit: Contemporary Kids design by Minneapolis Architect Jaque Bethke for PURE Design Environments, Inc.

If you want the freestyle look but you're not ready to commit to something too random, create freestyle stencils and use those to etch what you want on your walls. Simply cut out the stencils, tape a small level to them and use that to help ensure that the freestyle designs or writing stay perfectly straight on the walls. 

Whether you choose to paint something whimsical with cans of spray paint or opt for something much more sedate, your wall decorations can become a focal point of the room, a great conversation piece, and a constant example of a satisfying job well done. Best of all, these creative walls can make your space even more personal, giving you a deeper connection to your home.

(*You are reading an article originally posted on Build Direct Blog)

Home Resolutions for 2013

The end of the year is a perfect time to look on the past year's accomplishments, and to look forward to new ones in the next twelve months. Resolutions have a way to up our confidence and trust that the next year will be better than the last. They anchor us into goals and hopes and help us navigate the flow of time.

Most people make resolutions about themselves: I will eat better, exercise more, be nicer to people, find a better job, give more to charity, get involved in church groups. There are so many things to do, and yet we tend to forget one of the most important things: our home. Our home is where we spend the most time, where we sleep, where we eat, where we share happy moments or weather difficult times with our loved ones. Isn't it time that you think about your home for your resolutions?

Resolution 1: I will keep clutter away

Clutter can be a sign of an unhappy heart or an unfocused mind. Especially for people who spend a lot of time at home, clutter can become distracting and reflect a lack of care about your space, and ultimately ourselves.

This year, we talked about the emotional baggage associated with clutter and how to move on without it. What are the things you're holding on to? How do these things manifest themselves in your home? What should you be letting go of?

Keeping clutter away means keeping an open home and an open heart.

Resolution 2: I will make my home greener

Strand-woven bamboo flooring with an "ebony" stain. Sophisticated, and green too. You don't have to give up one to serve the other in the 21st Century.

There's no denying it: the Earth needs help. It has been the warmest period for hundreds of years. Even though it sometimes feels like an insurmountable mountain, every small gesture to reduce your use of electricity, your waste production of your carbon footprint helps. 

From low-consumption light bulbs to eco flooring like bamboo or woven grass, there's always a way to make your home a little greener and a little gentler on the environment. Here are some more ideas:

• Start a composting bin in your backyard
• Install low-flow toilets and shower heads
• Reduce your winter heating needs with new windows or e-film
• Reduce your summer air conditioning needs with better ventilation
• Install automatic light switches and temperature control
• Start growing your own vegetables and herbs in a garden patch

How could your house be greener? Involve the whole family in choosing specific actions to do every day to help the environment.

Resolution 3: I will make something with my hands

When's the last time you made an object with your own hands? Are the clothes you wear, the chairs you sit on and the bowls you eat in all bought from stores? Have you ever felt the satisfaction of making a useful object yourself? It may be time for a DIY resolution.

Naturally crafty people tend to like having their own craft room. Magical things happen there: clothes are sewed, scarves and mittens are knitted, jewels are designed and scrapbooks are put together. It happens with patience, practice and dedication, and the reward is always worth it. Crafters are naturally generous, giving away their objects to friends and loved ones; they are creative, always inventing new patterns and transforming materials into beautiful objects.

Making and DIY is a sort of retro-volution, going back to when things were made, proudly and lovingly, instead of bought, quickly and anonymously. DIY increases your sense of belonging in a space and your independence from a capricious market. There are whole communities devoted to DIY where people happily share their knowledge, experience and tips and tricks among themselves, build community and help each other. There are even more Makerspaces scattered across North America, where people without the proper tools or space can go and work on DIY projects. 

Maybe the first step towards making something with your hands is to look up your local Makerspace?

Resolution 4: I will spend more time outside

It seems counter-intuitive to suggest spending more time outside when speaking about home resolutions, but spending more time out of doors is linked to mental and physical health. Going outdoors means being more active, having more contacts with nature and being more social.

If time is scarce, you can always get more time outside by getting an outdoor office or an outdoor breakfast nook. The point of the exercise is to breathe fresh air, move around more and get more sunlight, even in winter. 

Making your home more comfortable doesn't mean spending all your time in it... have you ever heard of cabin fever? Contact with nature is an essential part of human life, and spending time outside is just as important as having an inviting, relaxing bedroom.

What are your home resolutions for 2013?

12 Days of Christmas DIY

From pine cone garlands to recycled coffee-cup ornaments, we've gathered 12 easy-to-do Christmas DIY projects to brighten your holidays.

Photo: BobVila.com

Ornament Garland

Who said ornaments had to go in trees?

String together leftover ornaments - or pick up some new ones - to make this beautiful holiday garland.

Simply thread lightweight twine through the hook hole of each ornament and then cluster them tightly.

In no time, you'll be decking the halls.

Photo: BobVila.com

Ice Luminaries

Fill a plastic container two-thirds of the way with water, cranberries, and greens.

Then place a smaller container (filled with water for weight) inside the first.

Pop the whole thing in the freezer and once frozen, run it under hot water until the plastic containers separate.

Insert a votive and strike a match!

Photo: BobVila.com

Bell Jar Ornaments

Separate the stem and flute from the bottoms of plastic wine glasses, trimming down their stems with a Dremel or utility knife.

Glue small figurines to pieces of chipboard, then glue the wine glass (flute-side down) onto the chipboard, over the figurines.

Once everything dries, funnel in glitter to complete the winter scene.

Photo: BobVila.com

Paper Christmas Tree Skirt

Cut six large concentric circles out of craft paper and layer them on top of each other, each layer slightly smaller than the one underneath.

Next, cut a smaller circle - large enough for the trunk of the tree - out of the center of these circles. 

Glue each layer together around this opening and cut fringe around the edges for a charming and unique tree skirt!

Photo: BobVila.com

Candy Lights

Just when you thought Christmas lights couldn't get any cuter!

Clump together colored cellophane and a section of twinkle lights.

Place inside a light, clear container (e.g., corsage box). 

Wrap colored cellophane around the outside of the container and squeeze pipe cleaners around each end to create the look of a candy wrapper.

Repeat as many times as you can along the string.

Photo: BobVila.com

Paper Ornaments

These are DIY ornaments you can make while drinking your morning coffee!

Cut newspaper - or any paper - into thin strips.

Fold the strips into loops.

Hot glue the loops together in a circle.

Add chipboard stars to the center for flair.

Photo: BobVila.com

Stenciled Mugs

Everyone loves mugs!

Stencil a message or design of your choosing on a plain mug using glass paint.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Fill with presents or keep for yourself - get that hot chocolate ready!

Photo: BobVila.com

Pine Cone Garland

A pine cone garland can bring in a rustic sense of the outdoors, especially this time of year.

Simply string loops to the base of each pine cone and then tie each loop to a long string.

Step by step tutorial

Photo: BobVila.com

Christmasy Candle

Put a branch of greenery in the bottom of a Mason jar.

Fill two-thirds of the way with water.

Then add some cranberries and a floating candle for a simple and charming accent to invite holiday cheer.

Photo: BobVila.com

Cupcake Liner Christmas Trees

Not every tree needs branches!

Pin layers of holiday cupcake liners to a foam cone for a fun and easy tabletop Christmas tree.

Photo: BobVila.com

Holiday Potpourri

Make your whole house smell like the boughs of a Christmas tree.

Spritz some wintery pine cones and greenery with a spray made from a mixutre of distilled water and essential oils.

I can practically smell it from here!

Photo: BobVila.com

Evergreen Wreath

Start with a hoop, either plastic or made from a branch.

Place a clump of greenery on the hoop and secure it by tightly wrapping wire around the stems.

Layer a second bunch over the first, being careful to conceal the wire.

Repeat all the way around the circle... and you've got yourself an evergreen wreath!

20 Holiday Essentials to Get You to New Year's

No matter how much we prepare for the holidays, something usually slips through the cracks. And without fail, it goes unnoticed until the exact moment we need it. Avoid last-minute scrambles this year by stocking up on these essentials.

Photo: Houzz.com

1). Brown kraft paper can be used for wrapping gifts, covering up the kids' (or adults') table, making place settings, as a table runner or for gift tags.

2). Colorful tape makes any wrapping job more fun. Stock up for birthdays while you're at it.

3). Twine in cheerful colors can be used for wrapping pretty presents and packages, tying tags, hanging decor and more.

4). A gold pen can be used to dress up brown kraft paper and colored gift tags or make a thank-you note look extra special.

5). Scissors. Consider buying a colorful pair for extra holiday cheer.

6). A hole punch and colored paper to make gift tags and confetti (at the same time!).

7). White twinkle lights can make any room look festive. Keep these on hand for quick decor.

8). Candles in all all shapes and sizes should be on hand. Stock up on scented candles for the bathrooms, decorative candles and votives for table settings, and Hanukkah candles for those eight special nights.

9). Matches should be ready for all those candles, a cozy fire and maybe a New Year's Eve sparkler or two.

10). Cloth napkins make even impromptu meals feel formal, and can take the wear and tear that comes with heavy holiday meals.

11). A serving tray will present your annual holiday cheese ball in style.

12). Tide pens will take care of those inevitable red wine and gravy spills.

13). A bottle opener. Don't be the host who has to run to the store 15 minutes before the midnight toast!

14). Coasters strategically placed on every table will encourage guests to protect your furniture. 

15). DIY drink tags in holiday colors help your guest keep track of their glasses. Just trace the bottom of a wineglass on a piece of paper and trace a dime in the center. Cut both circles out with a slit between and use your gold pen to label each one.

16). A doormat in a bright color can help remind guests to wipe their shoes before coming in.

17). Thank-you cards. A handwritten note is a great way to show family and friends your appreciation.

18). Holiday stamps announce the arrival of a special invitation or note before the envelope has even been opened.

19). Cleaning supplies will take care of any pre- and post party messes.

20). Whether you're sore from late-night dancing or have a headache from too many Christmas carols, you'll want to keep a big bottle of ibuprofen around this holiday season.

20 Holiday Essentials to Get You to New Year's

Creative DIY Halloween Ideas

Halloween is right around the corner, are you ready? Here are a few creative "do-it-yourself" spooktacular ideas found on Pinterest to get you ready for this year's Halloween.

  

1). Better Homes & Gardens | Ghoulish Glaring Eyes

Using Plastic foam balls of varying sizes, draw eyes with black permanent marker and then stick a toothpick to hold the eyes together.

Attach the eyes to a dark colored bench or fence to make them pop.

2). Delia Creates | Magnetic Spiders

Take plastic spider rings from a dollar store, cut off the ring part, stick on magnets with hot glue and put them on your front door.

3). The Girl Who Ate Everything | Dracula's Teeth

Cut cookie in half, frost bottom with red frosting, place marshmallow teeth around curved perimeter, and top with remaining half. Insert two almond slivers in between teeth for fangs.

4). Martha Stewart | Glowing Ghosts

Snap a green glowstick and insert it into a white balloon and tie it. Using a black marker, draw a spooky face. Stick to a wall with transparent tape and turn down the lights.

5). Parents Magazine | Bewitching Welcome Mat

Take some old striped stockings and stuff them with cotton. Glue them underneath a welcome mat and add some witchlike shoes.

6). Simply Stated | Screaming Red Punch with a Hand

Rinse a glove several times an then fill it with water. Tie and freeze solid. Cut the glove off the hand and fingers, and float the molded hand in punch.

7). Country Living | Ghouls' Night Out

Take white tissue wedding bells and glue on construction paper eyes and mouths. Drape with tulle.

8). Squidoo | Jack-O-Lantern Halloween Fog

Fill a large glass half full with hot water. Mix in one cup of salt. Put the glass inside the pumpkin. Then, wearing gloves, drop in 2-3 large pieces of dry ice onto the glass. Put the lid of the pumpkin back on top for a tight fit.

9). Disney Family Fun | Bat-o'-Lanters

Paint mini pumpkins with black acrylic paint. Cut out eyes from white craft foam and hole punch pupils. Glue on eyes. Cut out ears and wings from black craft foam and attach ears by taping a toothpick to the back of each one, inserting the other end into the pumpkin. Tape wooden skewers to the back of each wing and, leaving a 2-inch point exposed, push it into the pumpkin.