Our First House – Page 37

Decorated Bookshelf

Published on November 4, 2010September 12, 2012 by Our Humble Abode11 Comments

A while ago, I shared how I refinished an old, worn bookcase, I even showed the finished bookshelf, but I realized I haven’t shared pictures of it in the space, completely decorated. So, here it is.

The top before refinishing was shabby, and not very chic.

The sanding, staining and polyurethane fixed that problem.

It took a lot of time, but it was definitely worth the effort to revamp this passed down bookshelf. I really love how it looks in the room, too.

P.S. If you like the Alphabet Tree painting in the photos above, you can get a printed version for yourself.

Another Feature

Published on November 4, 2010 by Our Humble Abode2 Comments

It looks like Our Humble A{Bowe}d is getting a lot of lovin’ this week. I’m definitely not complaining, though. A few days ago we were featured on a few blogs, and now our dining room overhaul is featured on Remodelaholic. While you’re over at Remodelaholic, check our all the other amazing projects. Seriously, you won’t be disappointed by the inspiration found within.

Wall Flowers

Published on November 3, 2010 by Our Humble Abode21 Comments

Remember these beauties?

Well, I made my version for a mere $1.99 and here’s how.

Start with polymer clay. You can find this at any craft store for about two bucks. I used white, but you can use a color if you’d like. Roll into a ball.

The size of the ball will depend on how big you want your flower to be, but you’re better off making it a little larger thank you think. On a sheet of wax paper, use a rolling-pin to roll the clay out into a thin sheet.

Get it as thin as you can. Place a circular object on and cut out around it. Use the end of a paint brush to create dots at the center. Ben a piece of wire and press into the clay to make lines around the dots. Place the wax paper and clay inside an oven safe bowl and play with it until you like the waves and form. Bake, following the instructions on the clay packaging. I baked my flowers twice as long, to make sure they are hard.

Remove from the oven and let the flowers cool. Paint the fronts and backs the color(s) of your choice. I painted the entire flower white and added sun yellow to the center dots, just for a pop of color.

Add picture hooks to the back, adhering with super glue. I had a few left over from some IKEA frames.

Allow the glue to dry overnight and get ready to hang those puppies up.

Now, I know mine aren’t as pretty, BUT, for $198 less, I don’t think they’re too bad. I might even have to make a few more.

What do you think? Does anyone have any suggestions on a different DIY technique? Just a little note, you can get at least 3 flowers from one package of clay.

Double Whammy!

Published on November 2, 2010 by Our Humble Abode2 Comments

Today, Our Humble A{Bowed}d is featured on not one, but two blogs. A tour of the transformation of our house can be viewed at Fresh Home Blog. Fresh Home also has a great magazine, so be sure to check it out.

We are also lucky enough to be guest bloggers over at Kara Paslay Designs, too. If you not familiar with Kara yet, you should be. She has tons of thrifty DIY projects.

We’re also getting a little love at a few other places, like Bring Up Burns, The Inspired Room, and Black and White {Side by Side}.

Thanks, everyone for the support!

Almost 2011?

Published on November 1, 2010 by Our Humble Abode1 Comment

That’s right, folks. We’re only two months away from a new year. What does that mean? You’ll need a new calendar, of course! Look no further because Our Humble A{Bowe}d’s 2011 calendar has been released.

This 5 inch wide by 7.75 inch tall 2011 desk calendar features a light grey faux bois background with seasonal word formed in the grain. Days of the week, numbers and months are charcoal grey. Each month features a different color border.

This calendar can be customized with new colors and words, so please ask!