Decorating with *Flowers*

I was checking out one of my favorite sites to visit, The Kitchn at Apartment Therapy. (Yes, I know how to spell kitchen...and no I didn't misspell their name) They featured these two sites for their pretty paper flowers. I haven't tried this idea yet, but it's been around for a while. I've been collecting variations in my (non-existent) idea book for while.

This beautiful flowers are from CraftStylish.




I like this close-up because it reveals the pretty pattern on the paper. It's not a simple white, but it has a subtle variation in color. It gives a striking, three-dimensional effect.

These lovely, trendy roses were originally featured on dozidesign.


For a fall take on the rose idea with real leaves, check out haha.nu.

The Dream is Back Baby

Since last week when my Singer sewing machine died a quick painless (I hope) death, I've been searching for a substitute online. I compulsively looked on Craigslist and eBay almost daily for a reasonable solution. Sometimes, I even browsed new models and dreamed of a beautiful land filled with 200 computerized stitches and embroidered designs. That land was just too expensive to contemplate at 300-700 dollars for a visit. Instead, I focused on used models.

I mainly stuck to the ones my repair man had recommended, Brother, Janome, and Babyloc. He assured me they were the way to go and would be quite dependable. The latter two I quickly found to be outside my price range, so I primarily sought out Brother models. I put half a dozen models on watch status on eBay and finally this morning I had a winner. One of the models that due to expire late in the morning was still at a very reasonable price. It was less than 50 dollars with only ten dollars shipping to boot. Now, that's a price even my husband could agree with. In the end, he did. Did I mention that I have a wonderful, loving husband. As much as he hates to spend money, he lets me buy and do the things that makes me happy :-). I so lucked out with him.


In the end, I got this Brother model for 53.18 with shipping included. A great deal considering it would cost me 59.95 plus tax to get mine fixed. I should get it next week and will let you know how it goes.

Thanksgiving Ideas (Part II)

This idea comes to us from Purple Lemon Designs. It's a new blog to me but I love the idea. There is a whole tutorial on the website. It definitely sounds like some work, but the payoff is big. Do it well and it can be used every year until you tire of it. I figure that gives me two years of enjoyment, lol.


This fun idea is from our good friend Martha ;-). She's very creative. I like the place cards the best. The centerpiece is good to tie it all in (not to mention a help with a case of the munchies until dinner is served). I could see it on a dessert or coffee table too. Also, from my friend Martha:


I'm normally not into gold, but these are very festive and season appropriate. They could also be spray painted white, black, or red for a more trendy look.


This idea is similar to that in the previous post, yet on linen napkins. A great idea if you want a more permanent look. Fabric paint required though.


Also, a variation on an idea in the previous post. This pumpkin features a whole bouquet of wildflowers. It's so pretty and feminine.


And again, my best friend Martha (yet even I write the post we become joined at the hip :-) does it better. I like the simple elegance of her votives and rose vase.