House of Hydrangeas

Our new guest bath was looking a little pitiful without any artwork on the wall.  I generally like a simple design in bathrooms, but the blank wall above the toilet was a little too bare for my taste. I already had some frames I knew I wanted to use, but I didn't know what I wanted to put in them.  I did, however, know that I wanted to put artwork in them and not personal photos.  And I knew I didn't want to spend a lot of money. Then I remembered one of the casualties we suffered in our move--a 18 x 24 frame with the glass cracked right down the middle.  The artwork that was left in the frame just so happened to be in the color palette of our guest bath.  And it was an abstract print, so cutting it up wouldn't be an issue.  I immediately thought I could turn this one piece into the multiple pieces I needed for my frames.  Hello, free artwork!  I laid my mats on top of the print to figure out what sections I wanted to frame and began cutti...

Ballard Designs is selling a newspaper dress print like this for $299.99 And a collection of similar prints like this for $239.99. I love the idea behind this artwork but definitely not the price tag.  Especially since this could be achieved by an easy DIY project for next to nothing. All you need are some old newspapers or books you're willing to cut up.  Make sure the print size varies for each part your design so you can easily distinguish the separate parts of the item.  Cut out your necessary pieces, use double-sided tape to place them on some white acid free paper and put it in a frame.  You're done! Another even easier piece of artwork can be achieved by simply framing an entire book or newspaper page.  It can be one from your favorite book or just one that has a typography you like.  Either way, the rows of print will add interest to your walls.   If you want to take the look a step further, you can print or stamp a word or quote on top ...

What a great reminder.  I really want to get this print. Happy Sunday to you and your's!

I have to take a minute and brag about Remington's latest accomplishments.  This week (in the span of about three days) he learned how to lie down on command.  We had already taught him to sit, but it took a lot longer for him to master, so we were shocked when he nailed his new trick so quickly.  And today, he got into the bathtub all by himself!  This might not sound like a big deal to some, but Remi has always HATED baths.  So much so, that he goes and hides in his cage anytime he hears the shower turn on.  Normally, we have to pick him up and carry him into the bathroom to place him in the tub.  But today, with a little coaxing, he got in all by himself.  He still didn't look too happy about it, but hey, we're making progress! It's amazing how the tiniest things can make me so happy.  If I get this excited about what my dog can do, I can only imagine how you parents must feel about your kids! Whether it's your kids or animals that make ...

Artwork can make or break a room.  A little bit of wall art is necessary in almost any space.  I'm sure you think that means spending a lot of money.  But before you get overwhelmed, let me stop you from tallying up the cost of all this artwork and show you how you can create some yourself.  Some of the best artwork is simple and sculptural and can often be found and/or created in your own home. A grouping of this geometrical canvas design creates a bold statement.  Frame a scarf for to add color and interest to a space.  Use pieces of driftwood for a sculptural design. Take inspiration for James Mares and get out the paintbrush to create your own artwork.

I always harp on finding original artwork for your home.  A great place to find said artwork, without spending thousands at a gallery, is on Etsy.   Matte Stephens is one of my favorite artists on there.  All of his stuff is whimsical and modern.  He also has several "city scene" pictures from large cities are the world-Stockholm, Boston, New Orleans, and of course New York to name a few.  You can get a 13 x 9 print on archival matte paper for $60.00.  AND you'll be able to say you're one of only 200 people that own it.  Sounds like a great Christmas gift to me! I'm especially in love with this Autumn in New York print.  

I always harp on trying to find artwork that isn't mass produced.  Well it just so happens that I've found a delightful artist whose prints are unique, charming and cheerful to boot.  Lets take a trip over to the Eva Juliet shop on Etsy.  Eva, who is an art director by day, dreamt of creating her own graphics with no restrictions or guidelines and what became it is sure to please.  Take a look at some of her work. With a sweet canary yellow print like this, who wouldn't feel welcome? (also offered in other colors). Simple yet beautiful, this herb inspired piece would look great in any kitchen. Choisis la joie is a French expression meaning "choose joy." To make them even more personal, Eva signs and dates each of her pieces!  Maybe everyone will be getting art prints for Christmas this year :)