Chic for Cheap

I see so many lovely things out there in the design world that make me think, "I could make that myself. And for a fraction of the cost." So I thought I'd start to share them with you.

I received my Ballard Designs catalog a few days ago and was so excited to open it up and see all of the inspiring things it held. One of which was a piece that cost $49 that I knew I could make for a couple of bucks. Yes, you heard me right, a couple of bucks.

This particular piece was part of the new SK designs line that Ballard is selling. SK stands for Suzanne Kasler, an award-winning designer out of Atlanta famous for stylish digs like this.

While I love Suzanne's designs, I don't love the price tags. The $49 piece I found and loved is this burlap wrapped vase.

The only images I could find online, show the vase holding flowers, but I think they would look great in a set of three holding craft materials or office supplies displayed on your desk as well.

So how you do get one for next to nothing? Take a trip down to your local Dollar Tree store. They have vases with the exact same shape, only a little skinnier, for you guessed it, $1! See what I mean?

Now all you need to complete the look is a piece of burlap, which can be picked up at any craft store for less than $3 a yard. Cut the material to size, adhere it with double sided tape or fashion tape and you've got the SK look for less!

Burlap is a really inexpensive material that offers great warmth and charm. Consider buying extra material to make a table runner as well.

Measure the link of your table and add about 20" (10" per side) for overhang. You can use hem-stitch tape to give the sides a more polished look or just cut it with scissors and keep the rustic feel. Either way looks great.

Because of its neutral color and has an organic feel, it makes a great backdrop for any season themed table, but since fall is around the corner I'll use that as an example. What do you think?

For a more personalized look, stamp it with your last initial.

Enjoy!