Settee Update

So, remember the gorgeous piece of furniture I snagged at the thrift store the other week? As it turns out, I am finding a lot of similar pieces at furniture stores and on-line. Check this one out. $1,399 + fabric costs (ouch, that could be another $700). Now that is a pricey foyer piece.

And mine? Drumroll...

A whopping 50 smakaroos. That's right, friends. 50 big ones.

Of course all the fabrics I am seriously considering for reupholstery are ungodly expensive, but totally worth it, right, honey?

Let me know which one you like:

This one

This one

This one

This one

I have always been into patterns, mixing styles, and I love a more wordly look (as opposed to traditional and matchy matchy). The sofa would be chocolate brown or charcoal.

I already e-mailed a trusty friend for her thoughts, but would appreciate yours as well!

Cheap Doesn't Always Mean Cheap!

I am thrilled to share a recent find with you guys:

This may not look like a gem to you, but to me, it is absolutely gorgeous! It is a victorian-inspired love seat with queen anne details (the photo does not do justice to the feminine, cabriole legs). And I can't WAIT to pick it up from the good old Goodwill tomorrow. Seriously, the desk next to this love seat was equally gorgeous (ah to have both)... splash on a coat of turquoise or lime green paint and trim it out in white with brushed steel handles... gorgeous, stylish, and recycled).

I was not even searching for furniture. I was actually donating an entire car's worth of nice items as we are really paring down lately (less is so so so more). I saw it and listened as two other women eagerly discussed price with the employee. It was out on the floor for the first time today and had already been placed on hold twice. The lowest the manager would go is $50. Who wouldn't take it for $50? I felt bad (sort of) but I did bring out the cash first and money talks. So, I won!

Think you can't bargain at places like Goodwill? You totally can and should.

So I am already eyeing some fabrics:

This would be lovely in a nursery

This would be awesome in a quest room with a crisp ecru-colored duvet

This would be good for an entryway

This would be a good living room fabric

And while these fabrics are, for the most part, not traditional, they will add a nice modern touch to a piece that is a replica from the 19th century. Even in a modern condo loft (if we go that route) this piece will find a home.

Don't be shy about DIY projects! This one won't really take off until the summer, but until then, it will be in my bedroom with a slipcover.

Crafty Stuff

So many of you know I am a serious crafter. I like knitting, scrap booking, cooking, sewing, and anything artsy. Some of my favorite websites (Hyena Cart and Etsy) sell hand made, eclectic, and artsy things. I love supporting small business and individuals so if you do, too, please visit the sites!

I am currently working on a project of my own: mod-inspired barrette holders for girls. These are hand crafted items where parents can store hair accessories for their little munchkies.

This is my first attempt so it is not good, but take a look:

All of the edges are hand sewn.

See this one showing the barretts:

AND... the whole thing:

I know it isn't the most beautiful thing in the world, but I am just getting started with these.

I will be posting updates as I make more. I am going to do some vintage inspired ones using organic prints and combine both styles using a variety of textures. Stay tuned! And moms of little girls, you will be getting one on the house!