The Studio Tour! (and a HUGE Give Away from Domino and Keep!)

We've been working hard to decorate my little studio space this month! It's been SO fun to finally add color to the all-white room! I have a million projects to share with you all soon (Here are the tutorials on the <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2014/03/diy-wide-plank-floors-made-from-plywood.html" target="_blank">DIY plywood floors</a> and the <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2014/03/diy-extra-tall-baseboards.html" target="_blank">baseboards</a>, in case you missed them.)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3223.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3223.jpg" /></div><br />Just like in my home and in my client's spaces, I wanted a good mix of vintage and new furniture and accessories in this space. I had been doing a little too much vintage shopping lately (gasp! possible?!) and we needed some newer pieces to sort of brighten the look up. My <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2014/02/vintage-furniture-shopping-tips-and.html" target="_blank">pink ikat Henredon sofas</a>, the <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2013/09/new-john-widdicomb-louis-style-chairs.html" target="_blank">Widdicomb table-turned desk</a>, the seriously beat up <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2014/04/how-to-easily-remove-rust.html" target="_blank">Plycraft chair</a>, the reupholstered <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2013/03/eames-management-chairs-in-scalamandre.html" target="_blank">leopard Eames management chairs</a>, the old <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2012/10/coffee-table-makeover.html" target="_blank">Italian marble coffee table</a>, etc. -- basically everything in the space was vintage, except the <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2013/04/diy-faux-malachite.html" target="_blank">IKEA DIY malachite pattern desk</a>.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3074.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3074.jpg" /></div><br />Domino and I teamed up with <a href="http://keep.com/">Keep.com</a> to add a few of those new pieces I so desperately needed to my vintage mix, and I love what we came up with. But here's the great news: you can <a href="http://keep.com/giveaway2?utm_source=LGN&utm_medium=banner&utm_content=DOLGNCN41514" target="_blank">enter HERE to win a $2000 GIFT CARD</a> to Domino's shop! Instant remedy for those of you in vintage overwhelm (like I was), or those of you who want vintage style, but don't love the endless hunt/bedbugs. :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3191.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3191.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><br />Here are the pieces I chose from the Domino shop, and a ton more photos of our studio below:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><center></center></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><img alt=" photo JennyKomenda.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/JennyKomenda.jpg" /><br /><br /><a href="http://keep.com/the-new-yorker-cover-september-9-1961-poster-print-by-saul-steinberg-at-the-conde-nast-collection-by-jennykomenda/k/wRNHEngBG4/" target="_blank">1</a>  //  2  //  <a href="http://keep.com/garnet-sculptures-set-of-2-arteriors-by-jennykomenda/k/wRK9PuABDO/" target="_blank">3</a>  //  <a href="http://keep.com/perimeter-light-white-blu-dot-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLZzGgBKY/" target="_blank">4</a>  //  <a href="http://keep.com/brass-colored-pencil-set-jayson-home-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLEBjgBFA/" target="_blank">5</a>  //  <a href="http://keep.com/untitled-domino-prints-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLQLaABIQ/" target="_blank">6</a>  //  <a href="http://keep.com/tracy-accent-table-safavieh-by-jennykomenda/k/wRK3VgABBU/" target="_blank">7</a>  //  <a href="http://keep.com/otomi-pillow-caramel-wisteria-by-jennykomenda/k/wRMb-sABLb/" target="_blank">8</a>  //  <a href="http://keep.com/falcon-arm-chair-light-blue-safavieh-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLVjZgBJe/" target="_blank">9</a>  //  <a href="http://keep.com/poppy-tall-aquamarine-glass-vase-arteriors-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLn7GABOX/" target="_blank">10</a>  //  <a href="http://keep.com/horn-vases-jayson-home-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLH_SgBGB/" target="_blank">11</a></div><div></div></div><br /><a name="more"></a>Let's start by the back door. We have the malachite desk along the west wall and I put the just-delivered, freshly reupholstered <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2014/04/how-to-easily-remove-rust.html" target="_blank">Plycraft chair</a> just next to that. I love how it looks next to <a href="http://keep.com/tracy-accent-table-safavieh-by-jennykomenda/k/wRK3VgABBU/" target="_blank">the new Safavieh table</a>. That thing is SOLID. Seriously built to last. The table top is a beautiful piece of sparkly marble and the tapered legs are gilded iron. The base has a really pretty organic quality - sort of perfectly imperfect.<br /><br /><center></center><div style="text-align: start;"><center></center></div><div style="text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3007copy.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_3007copy.jpg" /></div></div><div style="text-align: start;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3062.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3062.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://keep.com/horn-vases-jayson-home-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLH_SgBGB/" target="_blank">The horn vases</a> are my favorite for office supplies, but I've used them for flowers before too and the mix of textures is really beautiful. </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo cIMG_3059.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/cIMG_3059.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://keep.com/the-new-yorker-cover-september-9-1961-poster-print-by-saul-steinberg-at-the-conde-nast-collection-by-jennykomenda/k/wRNHEngBG4/" target="_blank">The New Yorker cover</a> from the 60s was a Conde Nast Store find. I love it next to my new vintage etching (especially after <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2014/04/adding-detail-to-frame-mats.html" target="_blank">its recent upgrade</a>).</div><br /><div style="text-align: start;"><center></center></div><div style="text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo cIMG_3027copy.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/cIMG_3027copy.jpg" /></div></div><div style="text-align: start;"></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">On the north wall, against the wall of windows, we put the ikat sofas and the marble coffee table on my old Persian runner.</div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo xIMG_2949.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/xIMG_2949.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I got these one-of-a-kind kilim pillows a few weeks ago when they were one of the <a href="http://domino.com/deals" target="_blank">Domino Deals</a> (50% off baby!) and they're gorgeous. (psst...this <a href="http://keep.com/otomi-pillow-caramel-wisteria-by-jennykomenda/k/wRMb-sABLb/" target="_blank">Otomi pillow</a> is also awesome)</div><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_2972.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_2972.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_2974.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_2974.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And on the coffee table is this pretty little <a href="http://keep.com/faceted-vase-matte-black-domino-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLg3OgBMe/" target="_blank">black hex planter</a> from Dwell Studio. There might be no less than three succulents in every room in my house at this point.</div><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_2990.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_2990.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This <a href="http://keep.com/falcon-arm-chair-light-blue-safavieh-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLVjZgBJe/" target="_blank">light blue-green chair</a> is more comfortable than you might give it credit for since it's so small. It's adorable and the linen upholstery is well done. The color is pretty with the sofas too, huh?</div><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_3187.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3187.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I'm SO in love with this <a href="http://keep.com/perimeter-light-white-blu-dot-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLZzGgBKY/" target="_blank">Blu Dot lamp</a>. I bought the IKEA knock off a couple months ago, and let me tell you, that one is complete junk in comparison. This lamp is worth every penny, just for the shade alone! It's a gorgeous statement piece. Look at that pretty base.</div><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_3193.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3193.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I found that little knoll table for (get this) <i>$24 </i>here at an antique mall. I could hardly believe my luck.</div><br /><img alt=" photo cIMG_3206.jpg" border="0" height="885" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/cIMG_3206.jpg" style="text-align: start;" width="590" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Just to the right of the sofas on the east wall is a bunch of new pretty stuff that I'm so excited to share with you! The perfect little cherry on top though is this <a href="http://keep.com/untitled-domino-prints-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLQLaABIQ/" target="_blank">Cy Twombly print</a> that I've been wanting for years now. I LOVE the colors here. And it was nice that the print came framed.</div><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_2930.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_2930.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://keep.com/poppy-tall-aquamarine-glass-vase-arteriors-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLn7GABOX/" target="_blank">This Arteriors vase</a> is so crazy and unique, I keep moving it around the house because I love seeing it everywhere. Recognize the nubbins? Totally inspired one of <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2014/03/diy-concrete-planters.html" target="_blank">my concrete planters</a>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img alt=" photo cIMG_2925.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/cIMG_2925.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">These little <a href="http://keep.com/garnet-sculptures-set-of-2-arteriors-by-jennykomenda/k/wRK9PuABDO/" target="_blank">brass hand sculptures</a> are new too and I love how they look against the black table. I think a person's hands are so beautiful (especially really old ones and brand new baby ones! Oh, my heart!), but I'm starting to realize that my hand sculpture collection is getting a little out of control at this point. Maybe.</div><br /><img alt=" photo cIMG_3420.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/cIMG_3420.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_3428.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3428.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">More the share later, when I get to the projects posts, but I just wanted to say that lilac and poppy red will forever be a favorite color combo.</div><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_2903.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_2903.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Then just a little to the right, in the window bay, is my sunny desk nook. Those <a href="http://keep.com/s-chair-white-zuo-modern-by-jennykomenda/k/wRM4-lABDK/" target="_blank">white S chairs</a> were originally going sit at the malachite desk and one or both of the leopard chairs were going to sit at my desk, but I decided I liked the white S chairs in a pair at my desk instead. When people come over, we all sit together here, and the girls come up and sit with me if I need to work after they get home from school. They color and I type away. </div><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_3111.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3111.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I painted the base of that Widdicomb table with chalkboard paint and I love the ultra-matte finish. And remember this little guy? My <a href="http://keep.com/brass-colored-pencil-set-jayson-home-by-jennykomenda/k/wRLEBjgBFA/" target="_blank">brass colored pencil holder</a> has a star spot on my desk top now. I love it.</div><br /><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_3129.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3129.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I picked up the gray wool office chair at a thrift store and it is so, so comfortable. It's cleaned up pretty well, but I think it's going to get a little more love sometime soon. The wooden arms and base need some work. But for now, it's just about my favorite place to sit and the arms hit the table at just the right spot. The perfect fit.</div><br /><img alt=" photo IMG_3074.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3074.jpg" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">There are still a few more projects we're working on (some giant inspiration boards!!), but I'm so happy with the progress in here. It's bright and cheerful and it feels finished, but not overloaded. There's tons of floor space for spreading out our projects, but also places to sit and work when we're just doing computer work. I am so happy and grateful for this studio space. It is seriously saving my sanity. :)</div><br /><img alt=" photo JennyKomenda.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/JennyKomenda.jpg" /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">NOW!! Don't forget to enter <a href="http://keep.com/giveaway2?utm_source=LGN&utm_medium=banner&utm_content=DOLGNCN41514" target="_blank">the $2000 GIVE AWAY</a> from Domino and Keep.com. Think of all the pretty things you could put in your home! My fingers are crossed for you! :)</div></div>

The Studio Tour! (and a HUGE Give Away from Domino and Keep!)

We've been working hard to decorate my little studio space this month! It's been SO fun to finally add color to the all-white room! ...

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Affordable Brass Sconces

I am in the middle of what shall henceforth be known as The Great Sconce Hunt of 2014. I need no less than SIX pairs of sconces for upcoming projects (that I'm so excited to share with you all - exciting stuff happening around here!). I've searched high and low for cool, modern and expensive-looking sconces for less than $150 each, which I think is officially my "expensive" threshold when it comes to most lighting (chandeliers excluded). I want several of them to be brass or to have brass accents.<br /><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo lampcloseup.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/lampcloseup.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Here are the ones I've really been drawn to and I'd LOVE to hear if you have seen any others that fit the inexpensive/awesome/modern/amazing bill!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><center></center></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo headboardwide.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/headboardwide.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a name="more"></a>First up is <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/183291619/mid-century-modern-raw-brass-6-light?ref=shop_home_active_13" target="_blank">this AMAZING beauty</a>. I'm already breaking my rule (these are about $180), but there is <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/183291821/mid-century-modern-raw-brass-2-light?ref=related-4" target="_blank">a smaller version</a> for $150. The four extra sockets are worth the extra thirty dollars to me though! Man, I love this sconce! The makers are Arizona locals and it looks like they take custom orders. I will be making friends with these people! :)  (PS Some of you have been looking for a maker from the Gossip Girl sconces - I think it would be worth reaching out to Lucent Lightshop for a quote)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo il_570xN578739402_hujg.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/il_570xN578739402_hujg.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Shop One Forty Three is a blogger favorite for good reason! <a href="http://shop.onefortythree.com/collections/frontpage/products/wall-sconce" target="_blank">This two-light sconce</a> is only $65!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_2446_1024x1024.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_2446_1024x1024.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div><br />The <a href="http://rstyle.me/~1Q6iX" target="_blank">Urban Outfitter Eyeball sconce</a> is an easy favorite (I used it in <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2013/02/moth-prints.html" target="_blank">Heather's old room</a> above), but they came out with a chrome and shiny brass finish recently. Can't beat $29!<br /><br /></div><div><div><center></center></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo ScreenShot2014-04-10at94845PM.png" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/ScreenShot2014-04-10at94845PM.png" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I love the mix of metals in <a href="http://www.rhbabyandchild.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=rhbc_prod395530" target="_blank">this RH sconce</a>. It's on final sale, so get 'em while they're hot!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo rhbc_prod395530.jpeg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/rhbc_prod395530.jpeg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.cedarandmoss.com/lighting/tilt-cone" target="_blank">These sconces</a> are so cool and they might be making an appearance in my kitchen. I love the fresh shape and the brass finish. Very cool. And so worth $159.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo TiltCone.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/TiltCone.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This <a href="http://www.schoolhouseelectric.com/lighting/wall-sconce-fixtures/isaac-sconce-long-arm.html" target="_blank">eyeball sconce from Schoolhouse Electric</a> comes in black too, but how pretty is this cherry red?! I would love a pair of these for my bedside lamps.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo 2540078ps_1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/2540078ps_1.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I LOVE the shape of the shade on this <a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod2111816&categoryId=cat1701019" target="_blank">adjustable sconce</a>. So pretty! And I can't believe it's only $129 (full price!) from Restoration Hardware. Part of me loves the loose cord and the other part of me thinks it would drive me crazy in real life...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo E32210056_TQ.jpeg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/E32210056_TQ.jpeg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/183182103/gold-brass-black-white-industrial-modern?ref=shop_home_active_21" target="_blank">These $67 sconces</a> are a new find for me. I love the ceramic canopies and the knuckle hinge joints. I already bought a pair of these for a bathroom we're working on. I can't wait to install them this week!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo il_570xN578447261_ddxa.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/il_570xN578447261_ddxa.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Okay, so spill the beans! Which sconces am I missing here? Do you have any of the above?</div></div><div></div></div>

Affordable Brass Sconces

I am in the middle of what shall henceforth be known as The Great Sconce Hunt of 2014. I need no less than SIX pairs of sconces for upcoming...

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Adding Detail to Frame Mats

I've been picking up new pieces of art for the studio here and there since the big gallery wall in the living room and the other spaces in the house have swallowed up most of the art I already had. Last week I found a cool etching of a Manhattan street scene that reminded me so much of our old neighborhood that I had to have it. It didn't come with a frame, but luckily I have a habit of buying thrift store art just for the quality frames, and one of the ones in my collection had a mat that was the exact right size for the etching.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo cIMG_3733.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/cIMG_3733.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><br />The whole thing looked a little blah together though. Lots of yellowed paper and browny-black. I first thought about painting the pretty, ebonized frame a more interesting color, but I hated the idea of covering up the old black finish. So I decided to try one of my old tricks on the matting. It was fun to think back on <a href="http://littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com/2009/10/dining-room-projects-part-i.html" target="_blank">this</a> five year old (!) post - I still love the concept.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><center></center></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo dr5.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/dr5.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />I kept it even simpler this time and instead of gluing down tape trim, I used just a felt-tip marker and a straight edge to add a little interest and color to the old, yellowing mat.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3032.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2019/IMG_3032.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><br />Using a clear ruler made all the difference here in keeping my lines pretty close to straight and evenly spaced. I'm crazy about how this turned out. Such an easy and effective way to bring in a little color without having to buy a new mat! I love a good two-minute DIY! :)

Adding Detail to Frame Mats

I've been picking up new pieces of art for the studio here and there since the big gallery wall in the living room and the other spaces ...

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Mint Smeg

I had one of my luckiest Craigslist days ever just a few days ago. We have been looking for a smaller size fridge for the little fridge nook by the pantry to use for drinks and extra food when we entertain (first world problems, I know). I looked around for a while for a cute vintage fridge to rehab, but there weren't as many options there as I had hoped for, and I wasn't totally sure/informed about the safety and reliability, etc of using a super old fridge. I did find a really cute one and went to go see it and then the guy told me he wouldn't sell it to me for less than $700 even though we talked about $350 on the phone. So weird and frustrating.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo cIMG_2601.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/cIMG_2601.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><br />That same night I got home and searched for "retro" fridge instead of "vintage" or "old" and a listing for a brand-spanking-new mint green Smeg popped up. The asking price was about half of what I could get it for at West Elm, so, not cheap, but it sort of felt like a present falling from the sky in a way. Like, when would I ever find a brand new one at such a deep discount in the exact color I had wanted to paint a vintage fridge?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo cIMG_2594.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/cIMG_2594.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><a name="more"></a><br /><br />Michael, who is normally the financial brakes in our relationship, was totally on board (he must read my blog or something? :)) and we picked it up the next night.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_2671.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_2671.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><center></center><br />It fits perfectly in the fridge nook and there's room on top for extra stuff (single door Smegs are pretty teeny). I have glasses and an ice bucket up there right now.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_2606.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_2606.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_2682.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_2682.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I love that the fridge is on the smaller side because there's still plenty of room for the broom and step stool that we had been keeping in the nook before. The plain old step stool looked so sad next to the pretty green of the new fridge that <a href="http://instagram.com/p/meaWG9wW5p/" target="_blank">I gave it a coat of gold spray paint a couple days ago</a> (I had the paint and the stool out for another project anyway, so why not?... Does this make me crazy?)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_2741.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_2741.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_2689.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_2689.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>True that the fridge was sort of a spontaneous and expensive splurge, but we're really loving it. We have a ton of family and good friends living nearby and it seems like there are people stopping by every day (<i>*dream come true*</i>). And given the fact that I inherited my grandmother's need to feed visitors (which I guess I could do just as easily with an ugly, cheap fridge), this thing is getting opened and used all day, every day. And won't you agree that most any other fridge would have just been a bummer to look at and there's no way its interior could be as well designed as the Smeg's?! Right? It's just a generally more pleasant experience to both look at and open up for your beverage perusing pleasure. So really, us buying the cute fridge was the kind and neighborly thing to do, wasn't it? I was only thinking of you, friends and family! You're welcome. :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_2726.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_2726.jpg" /></div>

Mint Smeg

I had one of my luckiest Craigslist days ever just a few days ago. We have been looking for a smaller size fridge for the little fridge nook...

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How to Easily Remove Rust

I've had this Plycraft chair in storage for a while now, with plans to reupholster it in a caramel leather remnant I found in Brooklyn. Well the day has finally arrived! My upholsterer came and picked up the chair and hide this week (should be done on Saturday!), but I wanted to clean up the wood shell and the super-rusty chrome base first.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_1645.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_1645.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_1653.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_1653.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><br />Barkeepers Friend has always been known as DIYer's Bestie to me - I love the stuff. But, oh man, when you combine that magical powder with the newest addition to my cleaning arsenal, the Scouring Stick, even the rustiest vintage chair base around stands no chance!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_1661.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_1661.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><a name="more"></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I bought a Scouring Stick, which is a heavy duty pumice stone, as sort of a splurge purchase a while back. I think I found it just at the grocery store. I'm pretty sure they have them most places.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo cIMG_1679.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/cIMG_1679.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It didn't really do a lot on it's own, so we mixed up a bowl of Barkeepers Friend with water,</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_1668.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_1668.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And gave the chair a light rub down with the mixture just to loosen things up.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo cIMG_1671.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/cIMG_1671.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And then we found it worked best to dip the stick in the solution before using it to scour.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_1673.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_1673.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The stick starts to sort of whittle down after a while, but it really really works well at removing the rust!</div><center></center><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_1700.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_1700.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Check out how clean the legs are now after just a little scrubbing! I was shocked at how well these two products worked together. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_1677.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_1677.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now I'm looking all around my house for anything to use my scouring stick on! Heather saw me working on this post and took a stick outside to clean up her vintage bike that was starting to get rusty and now it looks practically brand new. The box says it can be used on a ton of surfaces like stone and even concrete! I'm going to give our grill a really good scrubbing now that BBQ season is kicking off.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo cIMG_1684.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/cIMG_1684.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Also, in case you're not already using Restor-A-Finish, check out how a once-over wipe down really freshened up the old wood finish:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_1695.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_1695.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_1697.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_1697.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So much better, right? I can't wait to get this cleaned-up chair back with its new upholstery!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3372.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_3372.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>

How to Easily Remove Rust

I've had this Plycraft chair in storage for a while now, with plans to reupholster it in a caramel leather remnant I found in Brooklyn. ...

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The Phoenix Garden Party

Saturday's Garden Party was so much fun! The Home Depot is hosting these #SpringMadeSimple events <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/230668812138653319/" target="_blank">all over the country this month and next</a>, where you can come and meet with a local blogger and learn about gardening from an expert.  I was in charge of the pot-painting table at Phoenix's Garden Party, and it was a blast to get to chat with local readers and do a little crafting. We used Sharpie paint pens to decorate little terracotta pots before planting them with succulents.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3471.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_3471.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo jenny30.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/jenny30.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3483.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_3483.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Our gardening expert talked to us about how to keep succulents alive and happy and he shared how to make these <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/homedepot/garden-party/" target="_blank">really cool raised beds</a> planted with <i>SALSA</i> ingredients!! Genius. He also whipped up that stack of pots in about five minutes flat by stringing the pots on a dowel through the drainage holes. I thought that was pretty clever.</div><a name="more"></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3480.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_3480.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is Jim, our gardening expert and all-around nice guy. He said succulents like to be flooded and then dried out. So rather than watering them on a schedule (like you might do with other houseplants), it's best to stick your finger in the succulent's soil and if it's completely dry for a knuckle or two, the plant is probably ready to be flooded again. Interesting, right?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3484.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_3484.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3465.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_3465.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Jim was a wealth of gardening knowledge and was so fun to chat with while doodling on my pot. I went with a sort of marbelized pattern using my Sharpie paint pens. Those things are pretty amazing, btw. Have you tried them yet?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo jenny5.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/jenny5.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Michael and the girls came by toward the very end of the event and the girls jumped right in with coloring and planting.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo ScreenShot2014-04-01at40522PM.png" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/ScreenShot2014-04-01at40522PM.png" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo ScreenShot2014-04-01at40542PM.png" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/ScreenShot2014-04-01at40542PM.png" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Evie would have made a hundred pots if we had let her. She was totally in her element.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3503.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_3503.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This was right as she was telling me about what she was going to draw on her third pot.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo jenny20.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/jenny20.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And this was right after I told her that two pots was plenty. #devastated</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" photo IMG_3508.jpg" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd246/jkomenda/ALBUM%2018/IMG_3508.jpg" style="text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was a really fun event. Thanks to <a href="http://pages.homedepot.com/garden?source_id=193" target="_blank">The Home Depot</a> for inviting me to host, and a BIG thanks to those of you that came out for the party - especially those of you that drove almost an hour from across the Valley. Nicest readers ever. :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">To sign up for the Home Depot's Garden club (which has all sorts of tips and tricks and ideas for gardeners of all skill levels), <a href="http://pages.homedepot.com/garden?source_id=193" target="_blank">head on over here</a>. PS I learned at the event that signing up for the Garden Club is the one of the only ways to get coupons to the Home Depot.  :)</div>

The Phoenix Garden Party

Saturday's Garden Party was so much fun! The Home Depot is hosting these #SpringMadeSimple events all over the country this month and ne...

Read more »