The "Before" House Tour | Be kind... don't judge!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJB2EXNHqEte55GYIiW_bNShDUIXQ0FoglFXR4_CCz60YVqGL9wib24wsyIKQxTxS22RD9wQ2asNKP-QJ8SMJqX_h9bQXz8IEzcCKf2SacvlOrrVh5j31EF7xI7zJJftLM6OO-p0Eb7HgP/s1600/photo.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJB2EXNHqEte55GYIiW_bNShDUIXQ0FoglFXR4_CCz60YVqGL9wib24wsyIKQxTxS22RD9wQ2asNKP-QJ8SMJqX_h9bQXz8IEzcCKf2SacvlOrrVh5j31EF7xI7zJJftLM6OO-p0Eb7HgP/s400/photo.JPG" width="400" /></a>Every bone in my body resists me doing this... I'd love to keep the house all to myself until I get it exactly the way I want it.  But, as I promised, I'm taking you along for the ride.    In return for my seek peak into the progress, I ask that you be kind.  I apologize for the poor photography (I don't have the right lens to shoot interiors on my fancy camera, so I'm using my old G11... recommendations for a lens?).  The colors are off from what I'm seeing here, I assure you! </div><br /><br /><br />In case you've been wondering, I haven't forgotten my food blogging roots - I'm just now getting the kitchen unpacked!  I'll be making something yummy for our tailgate this weekend... Any ideas?  I'll share it on the blog (obviously...).<br /><br />Exterior (you've seen this before!)  I love how our house looks from the street.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijT49L6KzJJxl71PVYabCD3kOf97KtLSHV4MsXk6PLUuz_x9KWi2iNgoNCIUdhJB2rtKVA7y4h4SP_akvGma2Ywe8yiRv7PCQoQMwC3EbPsg-JwsVMgL-QRX-7Jlxpjush8j-Lo5fU_Xcj/s1600/photo.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijT49L6KzJJxl71PVYabCD3kOf97KtLSHV4MsXk6PLUuz_x9KWi2iNgoNCIUdhJB2rtKVA7y4h4SP_akvGma2Ywe8yiRv7PCQoQMwC3EbPsg-JwsVMgL-QRX-7Jlxpjush8j-Lo5fU_Xcj/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">The to the right is really the true 'before' shot of the living room and dining room.  This was taken while Mike and I were repairing the walls, before the new paint.  <br /><br />Now, on to the post fresh paint photos.  Keep in mind, we still have a lot of projects planned.  A lot of projects.  And a lot of decorating.  Our plan is to move in, do simple things to clean up and brighten the existing interior, then do an addition in the spring.  The new addition would include an expanded kitchen with fireplace and attached hearth room.  Upstairs that would mean another bedroom and a master bathroom.  Yay!  But for now, we wanted to just create a blank, fresh space for ourselves before we moved in.  Everything feels so much better already.  It is amazing what a little (ok, a lot...) of paint can do!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINnny6yg3hOzBHd_G7owI44bm2L0GrTqwsWZ5mMt-_fKST_uXYNn-5AoG33KtyAJvDn0QDTFOZQMbATaQw3-bk7pVsJDKaOEVyxw6v3KJtep9FW_z9_dZwZXpsaoT4OopSxqFWVy-hxRS/s1600/IMG_2911.JPG"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINnny6yg3hOzBHd_G7owI44bm2L0GrTqwsWZ5mMt-_fKST_uXYNn-5AoG33KtyAJvDn0QDTFOZQMbATaQw3-bk7pVsJDKaOEVyxw6v3KJtep9FW_z9_dZwZXpsaoT4OopSxqFWVy-hxRS/s640/IMG_2911.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is the view right after coming in through the small front foyer.  Welcome : )<br /><br />This rug will be moving upstairs into our bedroom when our <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-new-living-room-design-board-great.html">new rug</a> arrives.  I'll be posting more about my final (finally...) decision hopefully sometime next week.  I'll give you a hint- it wasn't any of the ones I <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-new-living-room-design-board-great.html">had posted about</a> or pinned on pinterest!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34ikRDcg4U1qYSR1AE2qrKk04GcsagimOYZy7lk_gTmmShCZavUZLgaicY9CzovgMwJBXebIrRtI0mTpAhTVEWPqD2pxnjmoeAtN17pbpL-jDQK4OwD5zBVCLpp3_EiFLEK17uUE7lDPT/s1600/IMG_2908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34ikRDcg4U1qYSR1AE2qrKk04GcsagimOYZy7lk_gTmmShCZavUZLgaicY9CzovgMwJBXebIrRtI0mTpAhTVEWPqD2pxnjmoeAtN17pbpL-jDQK4OwD5zBVCLpp3_EiFLEK17uUE7lDPT/s640/IMG_2908.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Fast forward 30 minutes and Emma's home from her first day of school!   A <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-new-living-room-design-board-great.html">new long ottoman </a>upholstered in linen will be placed right about where Emma is sitting. <br /><br />Wall Paint : Benjamin Moore, Manchester Tan<br />Trim : Benjamin Moore, Navajo White<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKZrLgI6vIOawu_fN2gqud-GKZthE-JUs6efKs4Uw3AM7EM3cfwaZpbt7tgGVTVjBEhgN2SkSljjSrSd15UZIAadA2tDGuK_8JWZ4NNl8R56BnprxsymZgpYV3ft5uAFjy7PLdGgujUZ2/s1600/IMG_2910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKZrLgI6vIOawu_fN2gqud-GKZthE-JUs6efKs4Uw3AM7EM3cfwaZpbt7tgGVTVjBEhgN2SkSljjSrSd15UZIAadA2tDGuK_8JWZ4NNl8R56BnprxsymZgpYV3ft5uAFjy7PLdGgujUZ2/s640/IMG_2910.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Remember how I said I ordered two grey upholstered chairs to flank the fireplace?  Well, I think they will be too big.  My plan is to move them to the front of the room (to the right of where I'm standing while taking this photo) in front of the big window.  So much for plans, right?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Note the fireplace, it used to be a little more embellished with wooden decal, and had a pinkish stone inset.  I removed the decals and painted over where they once where and while I was at it, slapped a coat of paint on the pink stone.  I just needed to go away and the paint did the trick.  At some point we plan to replace the entire mantel piece with something a little more handsome.   </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1pVW49-surRWlMqgIotQBF4Q_u9_RXjI0uq6LSSBi-ozhdxlzEGxj0PCmLZZiqJRQW0kyfdH2A-LDBh8J9D5Cq9t-REO9I2KdulYdK4F-wHQHdVD750aJCTsq9e7_ds3QEsxl9R1QCJ1/s1600/IMG_2913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1pVW49-surRWlMqgIotQBF4Q_u9_RXjI0uq6LSSBi-ozhdxlzEGxj0PCmLZZiqJRQW0kyfdH2A-LDBh8J9D5Cq9t-REO9I2KdulYdK4F-wHQHdVD750aJCTsq9e7_ds3QEsxl9R1QCJ1/s640/IMG_2913.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The next room is the dining room.  I love the slipcovered chairs I ordered from Restoration Hardware in Sand Belgium Linen.  My next big debate is a rug for this room (a different rug) and a lantern for above the table.  I'm considering a fixture from Cape Cod Lanterns (http://www.capecodlanterns.com/).  I thought it would be well suited to our "Cape Cod" style home and a nod to our stay in New England. <br /><br />Wall Color : Benjamin Moore, Navajo White in Flat<br />Trim Color : Benjamin Moore, Navajo White in Satin<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg63elYpgfq-bM8AdFeOKfGjIm067swZ4xHZ506ZKDG2tictQDYpNjTLRYbw6VE4zO9UVUWkIYLoYsgb9Pj_btnFFb2ko4Zhz-iSxhL-u3mJjCbfwP9aobpH5FhQ6lIUp8oM6c5ROrGY1ww/s1600/IMG_2915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg63elYpgfq-bM8AdFeOKfGjIm067swZ4xHZ506ZKDG2tictQDYpNjTLRYbw6VE4zO9UVUWkIYLoYsgb9Pj_btnFFb2ko4Zhz-iSxhL-u3mJjCbfwP9aobpH5FhQ6lIUp8oM6c5ROrGY1ww/s640/IMG_2915.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tah, Dah.  One of the best features of the house - I love french doors off of the dining room.   And behind me is...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-FjlOR0YCI-FIix_9HbgTNRL1tf4Qp1yuXLhOQWhFbyQVuWIJOaGw50hiYaWHZxSZRf_I0Od4yG0L44b8CE1blVWhIrTH82moXpxSArgQgfnkFiJ5kqa4rz3826tH1kN5RfXLRIOD4Ir4/s1600/IMG_2898.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-FjlOR0YCI-FIix_9HbgTNRL1tf4Qp1yuXLhOQWhFbyQVuWIJOaGw50hiYaWHZxSZRf_I0Od4yG0L44b8CE1blVWhIrTH82moXpxSArgQgfnkFiJ5kqa4rz3826tH1kN5RfXLRIOD4Ir4/s640/IMG_2898.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The kitchen.  Not too hot as it stands right now, but we have a renovation planned that will really make the space much more current and functional.  Eventually the kitchen will grow out of the back of the house to make a big open space.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6eK6Xo-KIEhVCFRs76wcdFvUQeokhooS__5nenDCOTZK-QFd-lr1Ss5UCrAtt5At1fabXwKeHJeX2tMcU80RyU7LQBc5Y0B6IcSSDl6C-rUjReWzju4XcQQ72Szq2KOCNzFQxGpim6Zz_/s1600/IMG_2895.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6eK6Xo-KIEhVCFRs76wcdFvUQeokhooS__5nenDCOTZK-QFd-lr1Ss5UCrAtt5At1fabXwKeHJeX2tMcU80RyU7LQBc5Y0B6IcSSDl6C-rUjReWzju4XcQQ72Szq2KOCNzFQxGpim6Zz_/s640/IMG_2895.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />Here is a closer view from inside the room.  This wall to my left is shared with the dining room.  I'm wondering if we should go ahead and open it up, or wait for our phase 2 renovation...  My vote is for now! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsolX1NwWsVp_OCvWD3dcLuiJg8HiCFxhk-O6YqNe22JQbmFLLI8UIg6ojMq1C4V4zCSR8OTKXZY08CfTGnuTvX_RgULIUZyVB-iINzwRURpsHqqXI-itXCk_7kEHdZmVX1sgiKqN0dz0/s1600/IMG_2927.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsolX1NwWsVp_OCvWD3dcLuiJg8HiCFxhk-O6YqNe22JQbmFLLI8UIg6ojMq1C4V4zCSR8OTKXZY08CfTGnuTvX_RgULIUZyVB-iINzwRURpsHqqXI-itXCk_7kEHdZmVX1sgiKqN0dz0/s640/IMG_2927.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><br />Now upstairs.  I plan to have a runner put on the stairs to make it a little cushier for Emma.  I'm thinking just something neutral and durable.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopikmhpEPe4QRiwoMc9hisIkMfVfofmnBegPS4QSBwPcy9epIpN14j0s8JJniVtk5fjpilQPimlciH3ietG_WHM9vRsismWUBsO-MKDeem9tVl6RYeAeX8cfM7yXENQ3Jp7moHoP6d12C/s1600/IMG_2893.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopikmhpEPe4QRiwoMc9hisIkMfVfofmnBegPS4QSBwPcy9epIpN14j0s8JJniVtk5fjpilQPimlciH3ietG_WHM9vRsismWUBsO-MKDeem9tVl6RYeAeX8cfM7yXENQ3Jp7moHoP6d12C/s640/IMG_2893.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><br />Now into our room.  The small rug will be replaced with the large rug from the living room.  The small rug?  Not sure about that... hum... <br /><br />Oh, and all of the light fixtures in the entire house will be replaced.  I'm thinking something with antique brass...??  Suggestions?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tnC9K3N0xc4TLbWqEsPOwDY78r906DK7SNT4AL2smqbRjOEAEG-xSzF3jauMN0xhod0x2YYLXR1dOHI6ohz79jLftj5fTYqRSnhEalz-Q7m7fRMoDupf1gUtfd8Wscwqh8_KEajk-6a5/s1600/IMG_2882.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tnC9K3N0xc4TLbWqEsPOwDY78r906DK7SNT4AL2smqbRjOEAEG-xSzF3jauMN0xhod0x2YYLXR1dOHI6ohz79jLftj5fTYqRSnhEalz-Q7m7fRMoDupf1gUtfd8Wscwqh8_KEajk-6a5/s640/IMG_2882.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />This is our bedroom from the opposite angle.  As you can see, we have the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/07/we-built-bed-diy-wooden-headboard.html">new headboard that Mike built</a> and the dresser that I refinished.  More detail photos later!  Here is the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/08/our-bedroom-design-board-inspiration.html">design board for the room</a>, for your reference.  I still have to add some wall art and accessories with pillows and blankets.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQdIDh28XCaJqczOdr2fgiEJrfcONeogTmqSPxQm_mGBl75zUnTEDViJXjYC5mpg1ss-5_8TC_xicUub0l2R-LHY3yy5FHcp4ZsJPeHhDLf3GGXBsCspX5OsCe94TgYclA0PXzKhANpn8H/s1600/IMG_2891.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQdIDh28XCaJqczOdr2fgiEJrfcONeogTmqSPxQm_mGBl75zUnTEDViJXjYC5mpg1ss-5_8TC_xicUub0l2R-LHY3yy5FHcp4ZsJPeHhDLf3GGXBsCspX5OsCe94TgYclA0PXzKhANpn8H/s640/IMG_2891.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /> Emma's room has taken a bit of a turn... toward pink!  I am not sure what changed my mind, but I've got a lot of cute pink ideas for her new room.  Again, the lighting is strange in the photo- I'll try to get a more accurate picture later this week.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-7pNlsacH2nS3_ptH4jovN7Sl_eKQeFadE5FJT_7DInjGQwiwY4TJOi4bP16DZRWv13JJRdQolZiovVEfNHJXA6dvYMhpHE-8_E7Jdhz11bGDmayhWkJbomgQ6dP5BCzHG_Zv2hPeAxq/s1600/IMG_2923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-7pNlsacH2nS3_ptH4jovN7Sl_eKQeFadE5FJT_7DInjGQwiwY4TJOi4bP16DZRWv13JJRdQolZiovVEfNHJXA6dvYMhpHE-8_E7Jdhz11bGDmayhWkJbomgQ6dP5BCzHG_Zv2hPeAxq/s640/IMG_2923.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>  <br /> Here is the back porch that I love so much - the last stop on our tour.  Stay tuned for the next couple of months to see our continued progress!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />

The "Before" House Tour | Be kind... don't judge!

Every bone in my body resists me doing this... I'd love to keep the house all to myself until I get it exactly the way I want it.  But, ...

Read more »

The New House : Progress... and Painting Prep 101

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3IcV4Ce5d78nMAkszQaxgKBumZOdtnCiclSz9egalrxhqk-KyzulF_IHF5hexdiEUSnSHzeWAn-_mNHgL8_PukSNNSDjuv0sABWasxwRrD-QELdQRHD7sRJRXZkc2ltcYHryj4So0uI0/s1600/photo.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3IcV4Ce5d78nMAkszQaxgKBumZOdtnCiclSz9egalrxhqk-KyzulF_IHF5hexdiEUSnSHzeWAn-_mNHgL8_PukSNNSDjuv0sABWasxwRrD-QELdQRHD7sRJRXZkc2ltcYHryj4So0uI0/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a> I'm sorry to have been out of touch for the last couple of days... we've been busy sanding, scraping, spackling, filling and sanding.  Last night we finally got some paint on the walls.  <br /><br />I documented the process for you so you, too, can have the pleasure of spending hours repairing your woodwork and trim.<br /><br />It is tedious work.  So much so, that Mike and I did the living room, prepped the dining room... and called a painting company the next day to finish.  Oops.  We really wanted to do it ourselves, but it was just taking us too much time to do it right.  <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAl6lN7mclErSSfTZGStFvpar4mYoYJ6t1I0Zxgd2XuzseT_B0M98AgGQG303g3oDFRJ2Dm0Az5vN9NqCIrbe2sVNmYNeBPG2H4Gp2c5Gf8QowUlHh8TkDk6uTU9LV4LFm6Emx9WQklBzZ/s1600/IMG_9004.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAl6lN7mclErSSfTZGStFvpar4mYoYJ6t1I0Zxgd2XuzseT_B0M98AgGQG303g3oDFRJ2Dm0Az5vN9NqCIrbe2sVNmYNeBPG2H4Gp2c5Gf8QowUlHh8TkDk6uTU9LV4LFm6Emx9WQklBzZ/s640/IMG_9004.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />Before we started most of the woodwork looked like the photo above.  Ick. <br /><br />Step 1 : Sponge down all of the woodwork with soap and water.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCl-WDU4uFAGRnyhtO5U9bkKfrKmRUjZ-3D7E2CfvbgJOtlCpc3ekaOXuJ8FQzDh8fac-MNDMgKY658KdeEhduTj3jaAm45Jyw6ox-e7QQ6Klqr3aXgbi-DAKJn2FBZTwNi4qJ-6GY22E8/s1600/IMG_9002.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCl-WDU4uFAGRnyhtO5U9bkKfrKmRUjZ-3D7E2CfvbgJOtlCpc3ekaOXuJ8FQzDh8fac-MNDMgKY658KdeEhduTj3jaAm45Jyw6ox-e7QQ6Klqr3aXgbi-DAKJn2FBZTwNi4qJ-6GY22E8/s640/IMG_9002.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />With the bad comes the good, as do these really pretty glass and brass door knobs. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqZDVI6ChijmYqLVxmSG-bWGWWiSOTmBaymu_lkJnwH8rExc5-idbgh7cq1fC24lnu3qCCbQXOr3wqQf-rHvi0PoGh00AdU6zxHoVfEEbHCrlCX_YsHzDz9V_KF0PDuAK8Dd0LFzZ1QRV3/s1600/IMG_9007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqZDVI6ChijmYqLVxmSG-bWGWWiSOTmBaymu_lkJnwH8rExc5-idbgh7cq1fC24lnu3qCCbQXOr3wqQf-rHvi0PoGh00AdU6zxHoVfEEbHCrlCX_YsHzDz9V_KF0PDuAK8Dd0LFzZ1QRV3/s640/IMG_9007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Back to the woodwork.<br /><br />Step 2 : Sand the trim.  I sanded all of the spots that had dings and chipping paint.  Then I wiped it clean with damp rag.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jZGS3lFHGWOT1OTtjM-mdHniFhRi74Ms8iiqkgB3WJvHCVvbthWGjTne78uSAoHfSE71_oS7zPNg2zxOSeH2rvihmJCY0NUmxMBrKdgklgJfrjNU_GrTlV53-A5lD5TYDGGdBkVFOyn-/s1600/IMG_9010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jZGS3lFHGWOT1OTtjM-mdHniFhRi74Ms8iiqkgB3WJvHCVvbthWGjTne78uSAoHfSE71_oS7zPNg2zxOSeH2rvihmJCY0NUmxMBrKdgklgJfrjNU_GrTlV53-A5lD5TYDGGdBkVFOyn-/s640/IMG_9010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Step 3 : I filled the woodwork that was chipped away with wood filler. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7xsNk31PJkOsJjvwsGU9kR34yp3f_FgRXJZFBzXHSWvXMEOxUHN0yYU1hqff-rOEqZU-oUNrbYRce9ZRI2EkPa9b_Lfskn8EtKLR_sAEV8EmBcPPa5RyPYRo5UxFnTW-l24INrneaqSZ/s1600/IMG_9011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7xsNk31PJkOsJjvwsGU9kR34yp3f_FgRXJZFBzXHSWvXMEOxUHN0yYU1hqff-rOEqZU-oUNrbYRce9ZRI2EkPa9b_Lfskn8EtKLR_sAEV8EmBcPPa5RyPYRo5UxFnTW-l24INrneaqSZ/s640/IMG_9011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Using a putty knife I filled the spots... <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKwMh7v6HpiRi-o0CT-ZgsmqD4t_X1JcNC4l02nrykl0kTcx3GgIjxTRwuGRLIEl2TT7NFTzYaFPn7XYhix6vzsihqU22S-vhG0YcIeXtCeNPVgAiGy3-JWpMR43JWVbjyuyB7rTAlQhk/s1600/IMG_9012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKwMh7v6HpiRi-o0CT-ZgsmqD4t_X1JcNC4l02nrykl0kTcx3GgIjxTRwuGRLIEl2TT7NFTzYaFPn7XYhix6vzsihqU22S-vhG0YcIeXtCeNPVgAiGy3-JWpMR43JWVbjyuyB7rTAlQhk/s640/IMG_9012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Then used the putty knife to form a new sharp clean edge.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7a2jkLcgflyB69pmcoujjpa5gLC0UgytRZw6XH-vEJR_YEWkfNqYLLq_8ZjDjxWsRc863zcUE0kNLBQkuZs0fimjTys7R9-hQ-b89hkbBAHHfbP6qHW1nxWoieO2Zj4_UgWicERgnwV3/s1600/IMG_9015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7a2jkLcgflyB69pmcoujjpa5gLC0UgytRZw6XH-vEJR_YEWkfNqYLLq_8ZjDjxWsRc863zcUE0kNLBQkuZs0fimjTys7R9-hQ-b89hkbBAHHfbP6qHW1nxWoieO2Zj4_UgWicERgnwV3/s640/IMG_9015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Step 4 : Patch the walls by filling any holes with spackling.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XcbIaOZ_RDKV5CbmJPZTr2TROLuhmbbO4PYfrdN7-9okI8azFkRdAMd1ZNuXunNNyLYF4xQ4NJM0g9bjkFxVAvATnT7h0vHnpYImHVoAKc0BVu2J813rvFw0b3Ax_bJAv8WCVyemreZo/s1600/IMG_9016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XcbIaOZ_RDKV5CbmJPZTr2TROLuhmbbO4PYfrdN7-9okI8azFkRdAMd1ZNuXunNNyLYF4xQ4NJM0g9bjkFxVAvATnT7h0vHnpYImHVoAKc0BVu2J813rvFw0b3Ax_bJAv8WCVyemreZo/s640/IMG_9016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We used this spot light to bring out all of the imperfections so we could repair the walls perfectly... or as perfectly as we could. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfRnUIBm5yVanip0yW6ESdzUsNMfRe9KQO-vnQua4cNbRZElyFPqkmFndm2jJd-tPXAP5QcYnAiDbNZMeEk8hVpcdziNClgXe-iUYpMNpfAfwQdebrw0ddc0Qf8mt1aR-TqeZLZ1e_Uqv/s1600/IMG_9018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfRnUIBm5yVanip0yW6ESdzUsNMfRe9KQO-vnQua4cNbRZElyFPqkmFndm2jJd-tPXAP5QcYnAiDbNZMeEk8hVpcdziNClgXe-iUYpMNpfAfwQdebrw0ddc0Qf8mt1aR-TqeZLZ1e_Uqv/s640/IMG_9018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Step 5 : Sand.  Sand all of the filled walls and trim.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijaC8dEb8FOAhgv7zo1CQOVChu9nKheS7E8rN7Rr6tUxUzs6J5Hbq5Y4-gYYcsRuDBGwBcd0rztp9P6e8pZ0QXNP1otnHv8lMTxWsBJCJjKDnOfqYAnadj5VkcOSl4vA-6riN6GMYS8HWV/s1600/IMG_9025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijaC8dEb8FOAhgv7zo1CQOVChu9nKheS7E8rN7Rr6tUxUzs6J5Hbq5Y4-gYYcsRuDBGwBcd0rztp9P6e8pZ0QXNP1otnHv8lMTxWsBJCJjKDnOfqYAnadj5VkcOSl4vA-6riN6GMYS8HWV/s640/IMG_9025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Step 6 : Finally, paint.  We rolled first, then trimmed. around the edges. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2MhxZQ3wL5CRmMo2lkwOBymyCKEld7neXoqI8rHgtuumrWX0n56cSaGZiNm_jYapN_L4TLzOfTx0X77rSzagMtof8hu-eTRHQ7RvFgI8RmsnkAkMWPJmoaLEbc7008NPFNutUojCrdeE/s1600/IMG_9026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2MhxZQ3wL5CRmMo2lkwOBymyCKEld7neXoqI8rHgtuumrWX0n56cSaGZiNm_jYapN_L4TLzOfTx0X77rSzagMtof8hu-eTRHQ7RvFgI8RmsnkAkMWPJmoaLEbc7008NPFNutUojCrdeE/s640/IMG_9026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Paint : Benjamin Moore in Manchester Tan <br />*You can see my design board (including colors and layout) for this room,<a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-new-living-room-design-board-great.html"> here</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpp2dtZ0BaKPXHUcHGlWclJTZr7jO5Gkt4Ox9cv1hQru0gNzyih31hcR6khRos88dUrbRMY_tqX0KdAY9ypeDAJixK5RDBP5m7bKmRK7yowt8l5OtdjLEIcFduVO_HpbvQjDM_zYhAU6gY/s1600/IMG_9028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpp2dtZ0BaKPXHUcHGlWclJTZr7jO5Gkt4Ox9cv1hQru0gNzyih31hcR6khRos88dUrbRMY_tqX0KdAY9ypeDAJixK5RDBP5m7bKmRK7yowt8l5OtdjLEIcFduVO_HpbvQjDM_zYhAU6gY/s640/IMG_9028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />As I rolled, Mike used caulk to smoothly seal the seams.  We waited for the caulking to dry before I went back and filled in with paint to the trim.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUQYKjQU6DZEL8sYu7tCn_h0J3EfH5dmxMUr376RLGtLKiCGDvNt9KMTQfMHX7hBkJG-J_oupfH_wOrW9WCneTTGwBrmdtlOFDZ7I-A4G6LS44vUOErY0QkayOUgOuvY7X2aragLu5QGNS/s1600/IMG_9033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUQYKjQU6DZEL8sYu7tCn_h0J3EfH5dmxMUr376RLGtLKiCGDvNt9KMTQfMHX7hBkJG-J_oupfH_wOrW9WCneTTGwBrmdtlOFDZ7I-A4G6LS44vUOErY0QkayOUgOuvY7X2aragLu5QGNS/s640/IMG_9033.jpg" width="548" /></a></div><br />Painted walls!  The house is feeling fresher already.  The color is a really soft warm grey, creamy color... even though this photo was taken at night in bad lighting.  I'll try to get a more accurate photo later this week!  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8s2dQ8_PL98R0q-EnD_7NeSecYIJn0zxRp6oy6ujgeJRtpVRlOAA2ZKu23TT3T80Sr6rYhOMg7-rh8cBpO-BJJfVu_648Sr11Z1dkkUC7ea9qhLqFjpUH9OMp_h41fSsjgFr3fiVRZ0Q/s1600/IMG_9032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8s2dQ8_PL98R0q-EnD_7NeSecYIJn0zxRp6oy6ujgeJRtpVRlOAA2ZKu23TT3T80Sr6rYhOMg7-rh8cBpO-BJJfVu_648Sr11Z1dkkUC7ea9qhLqFjpUH9OMp_h41fSsjgFr3fiVRZ0Q/s640/IMG_9032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The paint crew started their part of the house (the rest...) today and should finish tomorrow.  I'll be traveling the next couple of days, but will follow up with a "before" photo tour of the house.<br /><br />*You can see my design board (including colors and layout) for this room, <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-new-living-room-design-board-great.html">here</a>.

The New House : Progress... and Painting Prep 101

I'm sorry to have been out of touch for the last couple of days... we've been busy sanding, scraping, spackling, filling and sandin...

Read more »

The New Living Room Design Board | The great rug debate...

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycFBtLHxD8hyWF-B5HV93Jl5vdI9NroX9oDbNzUoDUOIrDIuVBCaFNYWaVgKvTxWuwIae1PpKS7Eh7O_LQ06gDkkWxcpw78ijenWX2OhLzc4jWNvlSY60i_LApb8NHKesZ6uzdR6sAFUm/s1600/new+living+room.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycFBtLHxD8hyWF-B5HV93Jl5vdI9NroX9oDbNzUoDUOIrDIuVBCaFNYWaVgKvTxWuwIae1PpKS7Eh7O_LQ06gDkkWxcpw78ijenWX2OhLzc4jWNvlSY60i_LApb8NHKesZ6uzdR6sAFUm/s1600/new+living+room.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINQmb7CQWJWKjxZfH2xsJgGMyEqLI24hoYpJi97QSoeu3wvrThyphenhyphen9frlJ3uWysZIxWlMjhslLTLxQyKWtDJL2EugWBipFSQykYZkjxTbecPhONbkd4e9O0fHePtQlFw-2pEOwNIobVpXNV/s1600/207236020324024238_wfrnB7CZ_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINQmb7CQWJWKjxZfH2xsJgGMyEqLI24hoYpJi97QSoeu3wvrThyphenhyphen9frlJ3uWysZIxWlMjhslLTLxQyKWtDJL2EugWBipFSQykYZkjxTbecPhONbkd4e9O0fHePtQlFw-2pEOwNIobVpXNV/s320/207236020324024238_wfrnB7CZ_f.jpg" width="320" /></a>As I <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/07/we-bought-new-house-and-im-going-crazy.html">mentioned last week</a>, we are in the process of buying a new house.  We don't move in until the end of the month, but I'm making design decisions and purchasing some new furniture in the meantime.  If you're <a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens/pins/">following me on pintrest</a>, you'll recognize the photo on the left as my inspiration for our New Living Room.  </div><br />I've put together the layout above using InDesign to help me with the scale of the room to make sure everything I'm planning will fit nicely.<br /><br />After some long debates (in my head, with Mike and my sister), I've made some firm decisions regarding the new ottoman, wing back chairs and a light fixture.  Things that are still up for debate are the final paint color (I know the hue, just working out the saturation...) and the rug.  Double 'ugh' for the rug.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgamYqcUJyCpNGQQXSpeRTBHuTSsOHwlN7u9x5dckem5rwlYWVdlCrI2BQzas0TzS1CniEprQRsHgh5sCwTbdSA_PnfhjnLFatCmugxDuwLDqwTCR7oe1ZdqnAoVeLwVtiNaZ8EUXkHyajt/s1600/IMG_6767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgamYqcUJyCpNGQQXSpeRTBHuTSsOHwlN7u9x5dckem5rwlYWVdlCrI2BQzas0TzS1CniEprQRsHgh5sCwTbdSA_PnfhjnLFatCmugxDuwLDqwTCR7oe1ZdqnAoVeLwVtiNaZ8EUXkHyajt/s400/IMG_6767.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> We'll be keeping our current sofa (thank goodness for the budget's sake...) that is upholstered in a natural "sand" belgium linen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKbzwxwaqTFzN-grjY_WzE2sKgj6ghRExP9kLO-5Rgjgmbz5k1XeyIRWPiQ4oOBbdUfjtUdXLZG473qtiETp6Js5uPMTuu1CILwjx1rn3PVNLCC5bmrgxzxE-HrigMjJ-qUBLXtcvH4Wz/s1600/fogchair.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="624" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKbzwxwaqTFzN-grjY_WzE2sKgj6ghRExP9kLO-5Rgjgmbz5k1XeyIRWPiQ4oOBbdUfjtUdXLZG473qtiETp6Js5uPMTuu1CILwjx1rn3PVNLCC5bmrgxzxE-HrigMjJ-qUBLXtcvH4Wz/s640/fogchair.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1nKaAiCjG8u8IDvbCdkn0AF_SQ0PYzEBxc46coaIf-hCgFH5x1xJCeYP9hB38Y5k8_QwYDNr6WekiHRxVAoaYZtwqRZUi-NGH40i8CGMPVQaAayVDeK-QDtI4EVZJC-chRRhodA1DNGf/s1600/barefootlilacchair.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1nKaAiCjG8u8IDvbCdkn0AF_SQ0PYzEBxc46coaIf-hCgFH5x1xJCeYP9hB38Y5k8_QwYDNr6WekiHRxVAoaYZtwqRZUi-NGH40i8CGMPVQaAayVDeK-QDtI4EVZJC-chRRhodA1DNGf/s320/barefootlilacchair.jpg" width="250" /></a> I've decided to purchase the 2 of the <a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod1860495&cm_ps=modal_add_to_cart-_-none-_-other_items_you_may_like&categoryId=cat1910010">Slipcovered Wing Back dining room chairs from Restoration Hardware</a>.  My inspiration for these chairs is from the photo on the left of the Barefoot Contessa's home from House Beautiful.  </div><br />I'm going to have them flanking the fireplace in the Living Room, but will be able to move them to the dining room for special dinners.  The price is a little expensive for dining room chairs, but a steal for a living room chair... so, since I'm going to be using them as both, I'm justifying the expense.  <br /><br />I'm going to have them done in Fog grey linen, as pictured above.  They are a great scale, measuring 25w x 27d x 47h.  Not too too big for our house, but still very comfy.  I also like that the wing back gives it a stately stature, but the slipcover makes it casual.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrPvVu5E5an7WBP7wy_DD0xy3C-udUFPmJ9GsCUSiqnKQMNifCVo94R_1eaXYR43R9EDkryUxX_-jzuNGY51AqJz8YvAdGv2F96_z0ZgAr6FDv-3XSI21hQS19PpofVdUPHjP4IIUawHj/s1600/ottoman.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="624" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrPvVu5E5an7WBP7wy_DD0xy3C-udUFPmJ9GsCUSiqnKQMNifCVo94R_1eaXYR43R9EDkryUxX_-jzuNGY51AqJz8YvAdGv2F96_z0ZgAr6FDv-3XSI21hQS19PpofVdUPHjP4IIUawHj/s640/ottoman.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The ottoman has been another point of debate... what upholstery?  Because I'm doing the grey Fog Linen for the Wing Backs, I've decided (finally...) to have it done to match the sofa in Sand Belgium Linen so I don't add too many fabrics into the room.  I plan to have various throws, interesting drapes and pillows that will add color, dimension and pattern to the room.  I'd rather stick with the basics for the main pieces, then have more fun with things that can be changed easily and often- as I'm known to do it for each season. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0D2KjaYNgMe9BshmWkuIT2M3Xx9cDMPd5khfkHk1uJ7d9fh62efwX8QG-bvP7sSNKGBmJUocmDmCWw7tAXg2Nm6rBgxUJxj3x9KjF8Z2G08TxqiZzY9072XZLMw5ZLCmocAaOXSoGTKYf/s1600/light.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0D2KjaYNgMe9BshmWkuIT2M3Xx9cDMPd5khfkHk1uJ7d9fh62efwX8QG-bvP7sSNKGBmJUocmDmCWw7tAXg2Nm6rBgxUJxj3x9KjF8Z2G08TxqiZzY9072XZLMw5ZLCmocAaOXSoGTKYf/s400/light.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have always loved brass fixtures and plan to do them throughout the house to match the existing brass doorknobs and hardware.  This one is from Circa Lighting.  Hopefully my budget will allow to have multiples of these... if not, I'll settle for this one in the foyer, and something complimentary for the rest of the house - bedrooms, hallways, etc.   </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieqRtewtMJEQHX_iTS4gl0l_dTCkaOW6VqGrFK6oJNuC5fB7VjcHyDbzZ73XhW5-hZIeBlRxsUlh-oGcjP8ZeNomIo6IDQEGQqsFm1VdsLxx_40139_9ffKST-gUBiuNshN61H-1rN-eR0/s1600/paint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieqRtewtMJEQHX_iTS4gl0l_dTCkaOW6VqGrFK6oJNuC5fB7VjcHyDbzZ73XhW5-hZIeBlRxsUlh-oGcjP8ZeNomIo6IDQEGQqsFm1VdsLxx_40139_9ffKST-gUBiuNshN61H-1rN-eR0/s200/paint.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOoxIjSFUSTVJWkDTLpVeRTHbgZi0QONmQC8h2LMhkOYwPGY23clOk3CtTfOJK_wACRgexyryXxkRxe4V8M27kMzMRg3fDQq3lTRCHpQ5L3coKIV_81ytPgC7Kpy5JP6Bch5tJj07SfmH/s1600/ash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOoxIjSFUSTVJWkDTLpVeRTHbgZi0QONmQC8h2LMhkOYwPGY23clOk3CtTfOJK_wACRgexyryXxkRxe4V8M27kMzMRg3fDQq3lTRCHpQ5L3coKIV_81ytPgC7Kpy5JP6Bch5tJj07SfmH/s200/ash.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I want the walls in the entire house to be very neutral and light.  I really like Stone and Ash from the Slate collection at Restoration Hardware.  Ash and Stone are not pictured in the swatches on the left, but they are from that collection.  Ash is the swatch to the right.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now onto the rugs...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYvvvfaSRCGAjSiwGf2xsgWskqhw6Gp6gt4Zus7-oKL32kLkY_OZXZIZrdM4Z8H1Bi3njbg8noFGuaeJMkAM24dQjTqGe2ouczeTSkOVWlVsrPb3-HO45wCAdwEdB7clAKSLrbOFtYkLqh/s1600/loverug.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYvvvfaSRCGAjSiwGf2xsgWskqhw6Gp6gt4Zus7-oKL32kLkY_OZXZIZrdM4Z8H1Bi3njbg8noFGuaeJMkAM24dQjTqGe2ouczeTSkOVWlVsrPb3-HO45wCAdwEdB7clAKSLrbOFtYkLqh/s400/loverug.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This rug from Ballard Designs, I love.  I love the colors, I love the pattern, but I don't love the comfort level of the flat weave or the price.  It is still the inspiration for what I'm looking for, though.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OmQRnC9znARAMNcLI2bumE4ICgqLR0lCREidxBfuI0ZzCHMcsgOl4tZw8pb-13ySjcGO1mqEC4co_4U0M_-SzaheUSjojRV7xF2YDgOXCvqYwPK0b805NY-RFLmgKrA5EMwNbB7j9f6M/s1600/ballardrug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OmQRnC9znARAMNcLI2bumE4ICgqLR0lCREidxBfuI0ZzCHMcsgOl4tZw8pb-13ySjcGO1mqEC4co_4U0M_-SzaheUSjojRV7xF2YDgOXCvqYwPK0b805NY-RFLmgKrA5EMwNbB7j9f6M/s400/ballardrug.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is another rug from Ballard.  I also love it - I love the contrasting pops of dark colors.  I think it adds a sophisticated element to an otherwise light and airy rug.  It is only available in a 6x9... so maybe I settle for it in the dining room?  But, I still need a rug for the living room...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZT0vCKAyhiQD2uiFtGUxqerRLDXNq8oFcBfo956hcCMIxvy4MVhLRJBLFufGWDuBZE2JPunvijGxiSz-ZgeXZ0ivYEETaU-mcB7UIhV8S3WpLICbaHG2i1cnIiPWvHKGn4Sl_Aq8XzUc/s1600/dashrug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZT0vCKAyhiQD2uiFtGUxqerRLDXNq8oFcBfo956hcCMIxvy4MVhLRJBLFufGWDuBZE2JPunvijGxiSz-ZgeXZ0ivYEETaU-mcB7UIhV8S3WpLICbaHG2i1cnIiPWvHKGn4Sl_Aq8XzUc/s640/dashrug.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />This is the rug my sister has in her living room (that I love because I help her pick it out).  I love the colors, but not sure if I want to mimic exactly what Jill's done in her house, just for the sake of copycat syndrome. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOQqUuPBjoIIGxLPJycLYflk-KuRKrEvRii5Psc8bxVEWkW-7t4b9sNsqL4I7wGnMal1IZM-ZIPOCI3-0PtcRwf1432TQ5lySKDi38eesQOQVYU-TOptxMQkyY2TR-G9dsCYfQpKXyXQSS/s1600/pbgreyrug.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOQqUuPBjoIIGxLPJycLYflk-KuRKrEvRii5Psc8bxVEWkW-7t4b9sNsqL4I7wGnMal1IZM-ZIPOCI3-0PtcRwf1432TQ5lySKDi38eesQOQVYU-TOptxMQkyY2TR-G9dsCYfQpKXyXQSS/s640/pbgreyrug.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />I also like this rug from Pottery Barn.  Jill also has it in her hearth room.  I also helped her pick it out.  I'm wondering why I helped her so much : )  But, the real debate is if I want something as graphic, or if I want a more traditional Persian style... I do love the cleanness that the graphic pattern gives, but I like the classic look of the Persian...  Did I mention double ugh?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh80QmGvHXHf0f5bVYhXJybdJHGoMzCNnEsOTp98AZDvUjldSXmKn6cFUy_nzm7xDRqieBYIiTk_K-cCki7pjXjuXGwlG1jhBCO_945VG8je2ajL-LN4U__tV78qT1UujPBYunfDnhqS2Z0/s1600/artscraftsrug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh80QmGvHXHf0f5bVYhXJybdJHGoMzCNnEsOTp98AZDvUjldSXmKn6cFUy_nzm7xDRqieBYIiTk_K-cCki7pjXjuXGwlG1jhBCO_945VG8je2ajL-LN4U__tV78qT1UujPBYunfDnhqS2Z0/s640/artscraftsrug.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />This rug is from Pottery Barn, also.  I like the colors and the traditional Arts & Crafts block print.  I think it would be a great classic look, but a little modern because of the clean block print.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_LKi7sPOaMC4nUeglZu4UuXKCff0D0DYKteCOUlwVZeV6HiXkf1MLKe6cHXbDIuHHdX1CfFWMersneKgpXZAx306zKtHsYMhOiWLCjlK9IoCVkGlTPzhdTCGzHDdovXsyVvHX2f3UpAz/s1600/multirug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_LKi7sPOaMC4nUeglZu4UuXKCff0D0DYKteCOUlwVZeV6HiXkf1MLKe6cHXbDIuHHdX1CfFWMersneKgpXZAx306zKtHsYMhOiWLCjlK9IoCVkGlTPzhdTCGzHDdovXsyVvHX2f3UpAz/s640/multirug.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />This rug from Pottery Barn struck me as interesting and eclectic.  I think it would add major interest to the living room... maybe a little too much?   <br /><br />Amy I missing any other rugs out there?!  Your help would be appreciated!

The New Living Room Design Board | The great rug debate...

As I mentioned last week , we are in the process of buying a new house.  We don't move in until the end of the month, but I'm making...

Read more »

Hand Painted Linen Kitchen Towels & Napkins - Easy DIY Project

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvW8BDUTlW-rpmu9NB_NJzNna3vVin-Jb8SlXA0wTrP48KtwjTj_p328lT8CCs5gTiPrzE5UpRie3I45HJsIhBCb9bXPMIxLlylAPi7qp26qbEHgwPb_7BTOxPpcfiVdH5_odX5LaXGUu/s1600/towels7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvW8BDUTlW-rpmu9NB_NJzNna3vVin-Jb8SlXA0wTrP48KtwjTj_p328lT8CCs5gTiPrzE5UpRie3I45HJsIhBCb9bXPMIxLlylAPi7qp26qbEHgwPb_7BTOxPpcfiVdH5_odX5LaXGUu/s1600/towels7.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39xEggdKCvpMXA6cGF81pbaE8rl_aCbNosNtzu03Qpi7xMNlZTIWsePnx2sbXaScl15shhgpYn4536mO-xwOjV2vk7Pgts6GAsN6BUcoAESmNJ4vnjtn9zxtRwimBoS3YWq7gg4SsKjPr/s1600/towels3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br />In my kitchen, each season I change out accents to make the otherwise neutral room feel more like that particular time of year.  Little touches like adding fresh colored kitchen towels and a stack of linen napkins can make a big difference in making the entire room feel like Spring, for example.  To be able to keep up with my seasonally evolving kitchen, I have made a variety of custom kitchen linens that boast my favorite color combinations and hand-stitched monograms.   Best of all, this project can be done by the most un-gifted artist.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmRs13nZy54Fd5EHObyXmvvN8CB4kH-OVQ_Mq_SaI-7j5hv9ICS4I4m6l94dE9lNN_f8GwjAADtZJrR_m0VBra3Cvm0-6_8wukR4XFaWCAMPLH3H6Y8h6J3US-Wy6xUIxzSKcdZo6wICf/s1600/IMG_3555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmRs13nZy54Fd5EHObyXmvvN8CB4kH-OVQ_Mq_SaI-7j5hv9ICS4I4m6l94dE9lNN_f8GwjAADtZJrR_m0VBra3Cvm0-6_8wukR4XFaWCAMPLH3H6Y8h6J3US-Wy6xUIxzSKcdZo6wICf/s1600/IMG_3555.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>UPDATE : I've started stocking my own collection of linens in my <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens">Everyday Occasions</a> store - some inspired by these hand-painted towels.  My collection for this season has a selection of warm, muted tones for fall.  Some even come with coordinating cocktail napkins and dinner napkins - perfect for making your kitchen and family dinners cozy and warm this season.  Visit the store <a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens">here</a>.<br /><br /><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><em>The Entire Linen Collection (in order of photo) :</em></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens/products/linen-tea-towels-cream-grey-set-of-3" style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><em>Cream & Grey : Tea Towels & Napkins</em></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><em style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens/products/linen-tea-towels-napkins-warm-grey-plaid" style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">Warm Grey Plaid : Tea Towels</a></em></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><em style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens/products/linen-tea-towels-classic-cafe-set-of-2" style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">Classic Cafe White & Black :  Tea Towels</a></em></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><em style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens/products/linen-tea-towels-napkins-orange" style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">Orange & White : Tea Towels</a></em></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Garamond, Baskerville, Caslon, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px;"><em style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/linens/products/linen-tea-towels-cocktail-napkins-natural-multi-stripe" style="color: #a9cdd6; outline: none; text-decoration: none;">Natural Multi Striped : Tea Towels & Cocktail Napkins</a></em></div><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br /></i></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvW8BDUTlW-rpmu9NB_NJzNna3vVin-Jb8SlXA0wTrP48KtwjTj_p328lT8CCs5gTiPrzE5UpRie3I45HJsIhBCb9bXPMIxLlylAPi7qp26qbEHgwPb_7BTOxPpcfiVdH5_odX5LaXGUu/s1600/towels7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvW8BDUTlW-rpmu9NB_NJzNna3vVin-Jb8SlXA0wTrP48KtwjTj_p328lT8CCs5gTiPrzE5UpRie3I45HJsIhBCb9bXPMIxLlylAPi7qp26qbEHgwPb_7BTOxPpcfiVdH5_odX5LaXGUu/s1600/towels7.jpg" width="227" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><i>hand painted</i></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">linen kitchen towels & napkins</span><br /><br />    fabric paint<br />    brushes<br />    painter’s tape<br />    water<br />    drop cloth or craft paper<br />    linen fabric<br />    sewing machine<br />    thread<br />    pair of scissors    <br /><br />Directions : <br /><br />Begin by cutting the linen into the size of the item you’d like to make.  For a napkin, a 20-inch square is a standard size, and 24 by 30-inches works great for kitchen towels.  Allow 1-inch extra around the perimeter for the seam.  Place a piece of craft paper on your surface before beginning.  Place the linen down and use painter’s tape to create stripes.  For a ‘plaid’ effect you’ll need to do the perpendicular stripes in separate phases.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_X_LO7sWBaiiN42nZzIums3brEHAnX6yORNP6xnmEQO_MUTE2AYBQP5M8dnDGRf7vZJThBgFcTr3-Orv9Zr0afzFVKRsz1V6dshStP5SZbCFNXd2uKePuYslhQYXCyJT35dL9fK0TSoNc/s1600/IMG_5146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_X_LO7sWBaiiN42nZzIums3brEHAnX6yORNP6xnmEQO_MUTE2AYBQP5M8dnDGRf7vZJThBgFcTr3-Orv9Zr0afzFVKRsz1V6dshStP5SZbCFNXd2uKePuYslhQYXCyJT35dL9fK0TSoNc/s640/IMG_5146.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />To make the paint, mix the color you’d like to use, then dilute it with 2 parts water.  Dip your paint brush in the paint, then dab off until almost all of the liquid is off of the brush, leaving only a small amount coating the bristles.  This is called a dry brush method.  Lightly begin to brush the liquid on with even strokes.  Continue until all of the stripes are a homogeneous color and intensity.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUDAAbv6x7veeXytWjkWBH6Wyhnbt9vh-zSA1OKgRxq5FTLUt6mUAujoJy_o2d21xJzMWUQ1RoKmYRcajRV8cK_xa1ykCfbTEdqzEopq7SKQs0BbwHiNXiYlZHHQBsOCbjqD44Gy_bJd3/s1600/IMG_5156_2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUDAAbv6x7veeXytWjkWBH6Wyhnbt9vh-zSA1OKgRxq5FTLUt6mUAujoJy_o2d21xJzMWUQ1RoKmYRcajRV8cK_xa1ykCfbTEdqzEopq7SKQs0BbwHiNXiYlZHHQBsOCbjqD44Gy_bJd3/s640/IMG_5156_2.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />Remove the tape and repeat to complete your selected pattern.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WruzHFmZN6vrAir6hW9lr15KRdt-tZqyYVK9OMfeOiIkLRnSudIOB8TxhvYmhS4X1y5G_xzHNAGvUnQsD_V2yXYcXex5lrBbt5yMn0235p2lOkOfajkjhxTPwoqfJlx2DAOBY-528RBX/s1600/IMG_5162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WruzHFmZN6vrAir6hW9lr15KRdt-tZqyYVK9OMfeOiIkLRnSudIOB8TxhvYmhS4X1y5G_xzHNAGvUnQsD_V2yXYcXex5lrBbt5yMn0235p2lOkOfajkjhxTPwoqfJlx2DAOBY-528RBX/s640/IMG_5162.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Let the paint dry for several hours.  <br /><br />Hem the edges of the linens with a 1/2 seam.  Wash in cool water and press.<br /><br />I put an "H" monogram on our napkins with embroidery floss using a simple running stitch.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqsUihPDzOHSuT8mPWzsNYNm6TmuR5SlB85aUm-RKIfwFi9n1vxSsKDBwELG695uaN4dhtiPMp57cnteE6NoSYC2uCLfdOyAlq3LioYX3C85zWe4A6KSEDgFdlS84hyTljUcQTE0NAnKQp/s1600/towels-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqsUihPDzOHSuT8mPWzsNYNm6TmuR5SlB85aUm-RKIfwFi9n1vxSsKDBwELG695uaN4dhtiPMp57cnteE6NoSYC2uCLfdOyAlq3LioYX3C85zWe4A6KSEDgFdlS84hyTljUcQTE0NAnKQp/s1600/towels-2.jpg" width="108" /></a></div>Here's the in-one-image snapshot for <a href="http://pinterest.com/jennysteffens" target="_blank">pinterest</a>!<br /><br /><br /><a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F05%2Fhand-painted-linen-kitchen-towels-easy.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-a1uY8O6xT6o%2FT7OxlQyEqgI%2FAAAAAAAAKQo%2FLeDhckYMrsQ%2Fs1600%2Ftowels-2.jpg&description=Easy%20Hand%20Painted%20Linen%20Kitchen%20Towels%20with%20Custom%20Colors%20and%20Monograms"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Hand Painted Linen Kitchen Towels & Napkins - Easy DIY Project

In my kitchen, each season I change out accents to make the otherwise neutral room feel more like that particular time of year.  Little touc...

Read more »