May 25, 2013

PORTABLE WALL DECALS MAKE FOR AFFORDABLE ART

wall decals | affordable wall art for the homeFor many years the term “wall decal” conjured up visions of Winne the Pooh on a child’s bedroom wall. Or maybe the grape vines that wound around your Grandmother’s kitchen. Fortunately, the wall decals available today are much more sophisticated and can actually be considered art for your home.

If your design style is modern and contemporary you may enjoy using blown up decals that show the likeness of pop icons such as Marilyn Monroe or James Dean. They offer a hip and modern look to a family room, teenager’s bedroom or a game room. These decals are a great substitute for “regular” wall art such as oil paintings or framed posters.

The decals or stickers that were available in the past were often difficult to use. Either they did not adhere to the wall properly or they stuck so well it was tough to remove them without damaging the wall. Today’s decals are more user friendly. They can be applied to walls painted in satin or gloss paint. You can even apply them to windows or mirrors if you so desire. One thing to remember, if your walls have been recently painted it is best to wait four weeks to allow the paint to fully cure before applying the decals.

With wall decals, your artwork can change as often as your tastes change. They offer a fun, portable and affordable alternative to more traditional art. In an instant you can add a touch of glamour, humor or sophistication to any room in your home at an affordable price.

*Pictured (4) Mona Lisa Wall Stickers

Autumn Outdoor Living | Patio Heater and Light

patio heater and light | outdoor livingOutdoor living continues to be a popular pastime for most people. Our homes reflect this trend as we are seeing larger outdoor entertaining spaces that often include full kitchens and separate seating areas. The decorating needs of these spaces are similar to decorating the interior of your home. You will need comfortable seating and adequate lighting and heat.

As the seasons change even the warmest areas can get a bit chilly in the evening. One way to insure the comfort of you and your guests is through the use of a Patio Heater. These are free standing, mobile units that use a propane tank just like your barbecue. They are simple to light, cost efficient and offer a clean and non-toxic source of heat. There are several finishes available that include stainless, Bronze and even wicker.

As autumn approaches it is still possible to enjoy outdoor living. Perhaps you are planning an outdoor wedding or are lucky enough to live in a climate that allows you to enjoy holiday meals outdoors. Whatever the reason, you will need lighting. There are lamps made specifically for the outdoors but these require electrical outlets. If being “green” is important to you, consider using candlelight. It is much less expensive and prettier, too. Hanging Outdoor Lanterns from the trees or patio cover will add a romantic feel to any space. In these instances you may want to use battery operated candles for safety reasons. Placing glass hurricanes on tabletops is always a good idea. But consider using these as lighting for outdoor steps or pathways. Planting a solar powered light fixture inside a planter will add a glow to your potted plants and use zero energy.

As summer ends and fall arrives, simply adding a few comfort features such as lighting and heat will allow you to enjoy the outdoors for several more weeks.

Beautiful Fall Wreaths | Top 3 Picks

fall wreaths | Home FashionWreaths have long been an inviting symbol that we hang on our front doors to greet all who pass by. Changing your wreath each season will allow you to display this friendly greeting all year long. If you live in a neighborhood where all the houses are similar, a pretty wreath at the door will also add some personality to your home.

After a hot summer we all look forward to cooler days and the changing colors of fall.

The marigold wreath is the perfect choice for late summer and early fall. The bright orange flowers next to the soft green leaves gives us a hint of what is to come.

The gourd wreath represents the bounty of fall through the use of squash, pumpkins, acorns, leaves and berries all done in the golden tones of autumn. For Halloween this wreath is a bit more sophisticated than one with jack-o-lanterns and ghosts making it appropriate for use all the way through to Thanksgiving.

The rosehip wreath is made from grapevines with luscious red rosehip berries. Rosehips are the seeds left over from roses after the flower has died. The natural colors in this wreath make it an elegant choice for the fall months and on into winter, adding just a touch of color to those drab winter months.

While many people hang wreaths on their front doors, try hanging one on an interior door, window or even a mirror. This way you can enjoy the beauty all day long. The shape and size of these wreaths will also create a beautiful centerpiece on your holiday table. Simply place a Glass Hurricane Shade in the center of the wreath, add a candle and you are done. (for safety reasons you may want to consider a battery operated candle) Matching garlands and coordinating candle rings are also available allowing you to decorate your entire home.

For images, product information or to purchase visit Pick Your Own Bouquet.