Archive for the 'Do It Yourself' Category

Always With Icicle Lights


It does not take much investigation to know that outdoor icicle lights are the most popular Christmas decoration around. Charming, elegant, enchanting in the wintry season, from year to year, icicle lighting simply doesn’t get old. It does not matter how many neighbors use them, or how old your lights are. Every winter when you set them up, your home transforms into a magical holiday.

Now that December has arrived, it is far past time to take down the Halloween icicle lights. Unless you want to intertwine those orange icicle lights with white and blue icicle lights, orange is for autumn. Blue, white, red, and green are for Christmas. Make the transition. It is amazing what the difference in color can do for Christmas icicle lights.

If you would like to deck your house with a complete icicle light set, you’ll need a number of ropes. Measure the distance for all your porch trimming, window trims, and roof trims. If you have a fence around your front lawn, you may want to use icicle lights there as well. Many people like to drape their bushes or string their trees with white icicle lights, giving an otherworldly appearance of glowing snow. It is fascinating how a single lighting style won’t go old on any home. Even if you choose to stay away from multicolor icicle lights, no one will call you redundant.

You may be wondering how expensive such thorough light decoration will get. Well, you can save a bundle by going for the LED icicle light. LED lighting has made solar lighting compact and inexpensive, so that you can enjoy a light filled Christmas at minimal expense. Most lighting stores will carry white, amber, and blue LED icicle lights. Save money, and still get variety. To add to the excitement, LED bulbs won’t die from year to year. LED’s can last up to a decade. Since the batteries are solar rechargeable, you won’t spend money on those every Christmas season, either.

So, no matter how many neighbors have told you they’re going with the icicle design, don’t shy away. Your home, your lawn, your shrubs…with the right draping and hanging of LED icicle Christmas lights, will look like a different world than anyone else. Want to really top it? Set up a Christmas train or elves to complete the set. Your holiday season will have never been more merry.


Holiday Decor Delights


Here’s one easy way to get into the holiday spirit.  Holiday decor is sure to whet anyone’s appetite for the holiday season.  When you start seeing the holiday decorations on the shelves and in the stores, you know that the holiday fever has begun.

Life is so much more exciting when you have something to look forward to.  When you take out the box of holiday decorations you know that a welcomed change in the routine is coming.  When you begin holiday decorating, the good cheer seems contagious; neighbors, friends, and relatives will find excuses to stop and chat as you work.  Whether you use the same decorations from year to year, you like to add to your collection each season, or you start buying or making new decorations from scratch each year, planning and decorating hold the same excitement.

Any ordinary house can become a neighborhood attraction with interesting outdoor holiday decorations.  You can go all out and purchase the most unique decorations and ornaments, you can recreate the scenes of history, or can set your lawn up with any 3 dimensional decorations imaginable.  You can even choose from a selection of inflatable holiday decorations to liven up your outdoor scene. If you like to be more subtle, you can choose simpler outdoor holiday decor which will still reflect the holiday spirit.  A holiday window decoration is also a means to connect with the holiday happiness.

Decorating your home can be a family project.  Everyone can contribute their part, and will be proud that their masterpiece is part of the families Christmas holiday decor.  From bows to ornaments, from snowflakes to wreaths, there is sure to be enough for everyone to contribute and to make their own holiday decoration.  It takes a skillful and thoughtful eye to include all of these decorations and to make it look tasteful and beautiful at the same time.  If you need holiday decorating ideas, looking online or asking friends will be a helpful and practical way to begin.   As long as the decorations look neat and organized, you can’t really go wrong, and the finished product is sure to look beautiful.  The main thing is that you relax and enjoy yourself while you are working.

Decorating is a chore that everyone enjoys.  Decorating the home and preparing for the holiday together will help to create warm family memories that will last a lifetime.


Indoor Outdoor Carpet: Practical, Easy, Fun


Carpeting your entire home can be a costly venture. Not only that, but some rooms are clearly too risky to carpet. Enclosed patios get way too much outdoor foot traffic, playrooms are, well, playrooms, and basements are simply too dank. There must be a way to make these rooms more comfortable, however. Cement floors or cold tiles in a playroom are definite no go’s. What you need are indoor outdoor carpet tiles. This carpet form can even be installed at pool sides and outdoor decks.

Indoor outdoor carpeting is made of tough nylon loop that resists unraveling, doesn’t require separate underpadding, and is usually fairly easy to clean. It is by no means plush. Yet it is far better than cement, cold tile, or run down flooring. In fact, there are enough styles and designs of indoor outdoor carpets that you can feel pretty stylish with the final product.

Even more, you’ll have no problem finding indoor outdoor carpet tile. Regular prices are about $1 per square foot. If you do some investigating, you can find even less expensive options. Don’t worry about shopping online for this stuff. It all feels approximately the same. Color schemes are straightforward. Your biggest concern should be quality and installation. For quality, look for known names like Shaw indoor outdoor carpet.

Installing indoor outdoor carpet squares should be incredibly easy. With a good knife and a straight edge, you should be covered. Most brands have self adhesive backing, or “pressure sensitive” adhesive, so that when you press it down, it sticks in place. Legato carpet works with traction, making installation even easier and rotating the squares a cinch.

Look for carpet pieces that can be matched with different shades, textures, or designs. You can make your flooring more interesting by using different colors for the room’s border, or creating a subtle checkerboard design with two textures of gray carpet tile. For something more dramatic, buy equal amounts of white and black indoor outdoor carpet tile and make that rec room into a larger than life chess board! If you’re creative enough and have a rectangular room or are interested in indoor outdoor carpet runners, you may even be able to create a piano keyboard. Now, that is cool.

So your interior exterior flooring problems have been solved! Get yourself some good looking carpet tiles, clear the space, and make creative use of a Sunday afternoon. You’ll hardly worry about dogs, children, or muddy boots coming through again.


The Upside Down Christmas Tree: Is It For You?


It’s the most natural thing to walk down your street this time of year and smile at the children rushing around in the living room, unpacking boxes of lights, ornaments, and candles to decorate their long awaited Christmas tree. For most people, it awakens a feeling of warmth, family, and tradition. It might be a little shocking, however, to see someone setting up an upside down Christmas tree stand and fir. It’s not April Fools. What is this bizarre spin on holiday spirit?

Don’t worry. While upside down Christmas trees look surprising, it seems that they might be the real thing. With some necessary research, it’s been found that upside down Christmas tree history may actually go back further than the right side up ones! When the tradition of a tree was first established, people wanted it to be obvious that the tree was not some trivial floral home décor idea. To make it obvious that the tree held meaning, it had to be a hanging upside down Christmas tree. Of course.

Whether or not you’re into the idea yourself, the fact is that it becoming a fast growing trend. Trends catch pretty quickly. Nearly any tree shop will sell upside down artificial Christmas trees. White upside down Christmas trees, green ones, plastic ones, or real ones. This isn’t a joke. You can call yourself a traditionalist, but if the real tradition is in the upside down…then, where are you?

Obviously, hanging a tree from the ceiling has its benefits and drawbacks. Among the cons are that the upside down Christmas tree’s firs might shed easily and spread around the house quicker. It can also be pretty prickly to hang. If you are set on candles for the tree, they’ll have to go, as well. The pros, however, are pretty weighty as well. With the tree at the ceiling, your floor space is kept available for presents and other things. It’s stylish, makes a statement, and is fun. The upside down artificial Christmas tree takes care of the shedding and the prickly hanging, so the only thing left are your beloved decorations. Well, you can buy a pre decorated upside down Christmas tree if the ornaments are your only complication. Now, really. You have to admit. This isn’t such a bad looking idea after all.

So the next time you see upside down Christmas trees for sale, the shock will fade quicker. It might even grow on you. Perhaps not this year, but next holiday season? Can you imagine your living room with this new, yet very old, traditional tree? I wouldn’t put it past you.


Christmas Garland Eye Candy


The shiny tinsel like ropes of Christmas garland are perhaps one of the most popular tree and home decorations for the holiday seasons. A tradition stemming from evenings by the fireplace after harvest season, they decorate homes at Christmas all over the world. They don’t have to be expensive, can even be homemade, and truly liven up the holiday scene.

Christmas tree garland is most often gold or silver tinsel like ropes. After you put on the lights, and before you hang the ornaments, wrap your tree with this artificial Christmas garland to make it really shine. Other colors are become popular for more funky and creative trees: blue, purple, white, and red Christmas garland can really make your tree pop. You can try to coordinate colors with your other tree decorations, or just let the whole thing go wild. Whatever will bring your Christmas alive. The point is to enjoy.

For extra fun, or as a distraction for the kids, set them up to make super cheap Christmas garland that will decorate your tree. Strings of popcorn, popcorn and cranberries, shiny snow flakes or fake candies and cookies. A beaded Christmas garland can even be a form of creative entertainment for teenage girls, or if you ask me…even adults. When the family feels like they’ve invested their own effort to making the holiday festive, you’ll all enjoy to the fullest.

Fresh Christmas garland greens, like pine, spruce, or cedar are aromatic and beautiful garlands to decorate the rest of the house. Hang them over door frames. Lay them between pictures frames on the mantelpiece or piano. Staircase railings and windows should join the fun, as well. Liven up the green, making it a decorated Christmas garland with strings of cranberries, blueberries, even small tree ornaments. Intertwining your fresh garland with ropes of tiny lights will set it among the most beautiful lighted Christmas garland in the house.

Perhaps the most delicate and fancy design is the glass Christmas garland. Real treasures, you can buy glass glitter ball drop or crystal bead garlands to decorate your tree, run through fresh garland, or hang from different place around your home. Careful around the kids, of course.

There’s no doubt. Christmas garlands are a must have to complete your holiday decoration. They’re like streamers at a birthday party. How could you not? Except that garlands last the whole holiday season through, and artificial ones should survive from year to year. Hang your garlands, and let the festivities begin!


The DIY Christmas Stocking


Whether or not your home has the classic mantelpiece above the fireplace, or even a fireplace at all, Christmas stockings are a pivotal piece of your holiday decorations. Every family member is expecting a Christmas stocking filled to their delight. The tradition is so enjoyable, so simple, and thus pretty hard to avoid. Turn it into real fun for everyone by making or buying your own personalized Christmas stockings. Personalized might mean embroidered names, or just personalized designs. Choosing your patterns, sequins, and beads might be all you need to make that stocking a work of art from the heart.

Bucilla Christmas stocking kits are a beautiful way to externalize the stocking gifts for generations. Bucilla is known for their merry holiday designs, quality materials, and generous embellishments. Their kits include all the felt, beads, sequins, embroidery floss, needle and easy instructions for making a truly enchanting stocking. They have numerous designs among their needlepoint Christmas stockings. Santa bears, Santa Clauses, dogs, snowmen, holiday fairies, sleds, ponies, and elves…different sizes, prices, and levels of difficulty. Virtually all of their patterns are for felt Christmas stocking kits, making them great to work with and often hand washable, as well. Bucilla does it all.

If you’re even more talented, and have some time on your hands, perhaps you can even knit Christmas stockings yourself. If a personalized Christmas stocking is what you want, this is definitely the way to go. At the library, bookstore, or online, you’ll be able to find the Christmas stocking pattern for you. Or rather, for your family member. A hand knit stocking will really go down for generations as a treasure.

When you’re ready to involve the children, cross stitch Christmas stockings are another idea that can be kid friendly as well. The cross stitch is easy to learn and fun to do. Children as young as eight years old can get fully involved in the holiday festivities, decorating, and gift giving. Embroidery floss comes in all the colors you can think of, and the designs are just as varied. You can find these Christmas stocking patterns anywhere.

Of course, you can also simply order personalized Christmas stocking holders and save yourself the time and energy. The children will still enjoy them, and it’s easy to buy quality that will last from year to year. Stuff them, hang them, love them. That’s what the holiday is all about, after all.


The Best Of Outdoor Christmas Lights


The further away that Halloween gets, the barer your home is bound to looks. Until you begin to hang those outdoor Christmas lights, you’ll feel fairly out of the loop and out of the spirits. The holiday decorations are only brought out for one season a year, but the festive air they create make them well worth every day they hang. So let’s get into our Christmas outdoor lighting. Break out your boxes. Head over to the nearest Walmart. It’s time to deck the house.

For the complete outdoor Christmas light décor, you basically have two (or maybe three) options. Regular plug in lights, and LED solar outdoor Christmas lights. Standard batter operated outdoor Christmas lights are sometimes available as well, but their batteries die so quickly that they’re practical only for things that need very little electricity. Basically, not a good option.

Regular plug ins come with long cords for you to connect your lights to the nearest electric outlet. The lights are often cheaper than LED counterparts, but they cost can come in high on your electric bill. For small strings of lights, like outdoor Christmas rope lights, these might be a good choice. The electric cord is inconspicuous and the energy consumption can be kept to a minimum.

For lights that consume more wattage, however, look into outdoor LED Christmas lights. Solar technology has taken a giant step up with LED bulbs (in place of incandescent bulbs) so that solar lighting can be cheap and compact. LED is the best choice for decorations like animated outdoor Christmas lights, larger bulbs, or even for icicle lights; if you want to carpet your bushes with outdoor Christmas tree lights, LED’s will work well. LED bulbs usually can be found easily for any blue, amber, clear, and white outdoor Christmas lights. LED bulbs can last from 8 to ten years, and their batteries are rechargeable. They recharge every time the sun comes out! Today, they are readily available at most department, home and garden, or hardware stores. You ought to have no problem finding them.

Once you’ve decided the form of electricity for your outdoor Christmas lights decorations, you can move on to enjoying the lights themselves. Figurines, nativity sets, lighting up colorful tree ornaments and decorating the house’s trim with icicles lights… You can happily throw away your pumpkins, hang the wreaths, turn on the carols, and let the festivities begin!


Getting To Christmas Gift Baskets


You shopping expenditures at holiday season can be tremendous. It doesn’t end with the decorations, tree, and lights. Nor does it slow down after purchasing presents for the children, grandchildren, cousins, or spouses. You still have to consider the food for holiday parties, drinks, and baked goods. The kids’ parties might be an expense as well. Then, you come to Christmas gift baskets. Co workers, bosses, teachers, neighbors, uncles, aunts, friends…the list can seem endless. Is there anyone to not give a Christmas gift basket to? Where do you begin?

First, you take a deep breath. The holiday season is supposed to be enjoyable, not anxiety provoking. If you will be happier saving money and making those gift baskets for Christmas yourself, then let the creativity go wild. Don’t think you have to buy the most extravagant basket at the gift shop. In fact, assembling baskets on your own allows for more unique Christmas gift baskets ideas. You can buy the treats you like, design the cards yourself, use all the ribbons, stars, and trinkets you fancy. Make them simple, make them funny, make them elegant…it really is up to you.

If, on the other hand, you’d stress more over making them than spending a little extra to have them made for you, let the eager gift market come up with all the Christmas gift basket ideas. Shop at the mall, or buy them online. Make it as easy as you like. You’ll find tremendous gourmet Christmas gift baskets in sizes larger than life. Smaller baskets for children’s friends or teachers can even be bought in bulk. Internet vendors might even offer deals like free shipping or “two fors.” Literally, anything you’d imagine is possible.

For those necessary yet cumbersome gifts to the boss at work, consider joining together with co workers to sponsor an extra large corporate Christmas gift basket. You’ll save money as well as have your name on a quite impressive presentation to the boss. For the rest of the office, miniature Christmas candy gift baskets or even cards with a sweet treat might to do the trick.

From homemade Christmas gift baskets to store bought Ghirardelli chocolate Christmas gift baskets, you can easily impress your friends, your family, and your office. Let the colors, ribbons, and delectable goodies do the work. By no means allow the gift giving turn into stomach ulcers. Enjoy it, love it, make gift baskets for merry memories.


Foam Mats For Child Friendly Flooring


Within a few short months of that first child being born, you’re going to feel astutely the need for safe and comfortable play areas at home. Stone floors are cold, wood floors are high maintenance, and carpets get dirty so easily. You want to let that infant roll and crawl. You want to give your toddler a place to play, safe for him and for you! Interlocking foam mats for kids will solve every dilemma.

An interlocking foam mat is soft, safe, easy to clean, and even an entertainment center in itself for kids of all ages. When your infant is beginning to discover the world around her, she’ll be delighted to find fun figures, shapes, and numbers right beneath her nose. The foam puzzle mat piece ahead just out of reach will encourage her to crawl, as well! You won’t have to worry that the floor is too cold, nor that she’ll bump her face or head in trying to roll over. Baby drool won’t bother you. Since foam floor mats are a cinch to clean, spit up or baby food spills won’t be a stressor either.

As the infant grows into toddler, taking the mat pieces apart and putting them back together will be excellent for developing motor skills…as well as a lengthy distraction. If you have animal figures on your kids foam mats, she’ll be thrilled to see her favorite giraffe or cat. Learning their names and sounds will be every day fun.

An Alphabet foam puzzle mat makes that foam floor mat educational and enjoyable for older children, as well. Your little boy will learn his ABC’s with greater ease. Making the alphabet part of his daily surrounding fun means that learning is enjoyable. Especially the alphabet.

Don’t underestimate a baby foam mat. You might enjoy it as well. Rearranging a multicolored puzzle mat or spelling out words with the foam “tiles” calls on adult creativity, as well. Sitting down to play with your child will be something you can enjoy to the fullest.

When interlocking foam floor mats get dirty, just take them apart and rinse them off under the sink. Let them dry, and put them back together! For spot cleaning, you can use a wet rag or even baby wipes. If you want to wash, sweep, or vacuum the floor underneath your puzzle mat, simply lift it up; the whole thing at once! Foam mats are lightweight and easy to move. But don’t worry; most foams are textured, so that they won’t slip out from under your child’s feet, either.


Homemade Christmas Wreaths


‘Tis the season to be jolly and ‘tis the season to start decorating your home for the upcoming holiday.  There’s nothing like some nice old fashioned homemade Christmas wreaths to decorate your home in the holiday spirit.

Of course you could go to any old store and buy a Christmas wreath like you do every year. But why not try something different this year?  This year try your hand at making some of your very own homemade wreaths.  There are all sorts of books and guides out there teaching you how to make Christmas wreaths, and if you’re the crafty type, you’ll have a great time creating your own masterpiece.  You can start with creating artificial Christmas wreaths, because they are easier to work with, then move on to fresh Christmas wreaths which always look nice and add a lot to the festive atmosphere.

One great place to put your wreath is on your front door.  Outdoor Christmas wreaths allow you to share the holiday spirit with your neighbors, which enhances the camaraderie of the neighborhood.  After you make your wreaths, you move on to the next step- decorating Christmas wreaths.  Decorated Christmas wreaths look great in your home and outside.  You can custom design your homemade wreath with any charms and designs that you want, adding your personal touch.  Lighted Christmas wreaths add warmth even to the coldest of days, so lights are a great idea to add to your wreath.  If you want to be original, and do something different from the traditional circles, square Christmas wreaths also are a good idea.  If you want to make a statement, and really project the holiday spirit, making large Christmas wreaths may be just up your ally.

Even if you’re not artistically inclined, you may just be able to create your own decorations, with the help of clear instructions.  You can shop online to find the instruction booklet that you’re looking for.  It’s not so difficult, and this could be a great family activity, a great opportunity to spend quality time together.  Your kids will be so proud to see their wreaths hanging up; even you teenagers will enjoy making them.

Your own wreaths will add so much to the festive spirit in you home.  You’ll enjoy making them and hanging them, and the happiness they generate in your household.  You’ll enjoy the holiday like never before because of the satisfaction you’ll feel knowing that your decorations are the ones that make the atmosphere so special.


Do It Yourself With Spiral Staircase Kits

There’s nothing like a spiral staircase to add class and elegance to a home. For some, a costly renovation to install such a staircase can be but a dream. Your dream just may be in your grasp if you are handy and confident enough to try your hand at spiral staircase kits, finding one that fits your style and budget.

So you’re ready to do renovations, but you don’t know where to begin.  The first step is to measure the area where you want to put the stairs, especially the height, as stairs that are too short will do you no good.  Be sure to take the size of the opening above into consideration, so you’ll buy steps of the right width.  Also bear in mind that this is not really a one man job, you will need a partner.  Be sure to ask someone reliable before you start so you won’t be stuck in the middle calling for help.  Also, if you don’t have a skill for building or you have two of those proverbial left hands, I’d advise you to start with a simpler project.  I don’t recommend stair building for beginners.

Now that you’ve got your space measured out, it’s time to choose the stairs themselves.  You can choose from a variety of metal spiral staircase kits, which come in different designs and thicknesses.  You can choose more elegant ones, or ones with pretty railings, it’s up to you.  There are also many wood spiral staircase kits to choose from.  They are made from different types of wood, so do your research to find which kind suits your needs the best.  You can decide which color you want, and have the staircase match the décor exactly.  You’ll be surprised at how much a wooden spiral staircase can add to the room.

There is also a selection of exterior spiral staircase kits to choose from, that could greatly enhance the appearance the outside of your home.  Of course the placement should be practical and useful, for example, replacing your front steps with a spiral staircase will look great on your home.  Outdoor spiral staircase kits are a great way to change the face of your home, while not spending too much money.

The cost of spiral staircase kits varies according to the size, style, and material that you choose.  Of course there are cheap spiral staircase kits out there, but I wouldn’t volunteer to try it out once you’re finished, unless you’re sure of its quality.  You usually get what you pay for.  Steps need to be sturdy and strong to do their job properly. But that doesn’t mean that you have to pay a lot for a good kit. There are plenty of beautiful, inexpensive spiral staircase kits on the market, you just have to find the right one.

Now that you’re ready to do your own home renovations, you’ll enjoy the job and the work it entails.  Most of all, you’ll enjoy the feeling of satisfaction that comes with a job well done, and that you played a real part in making your home beautiful.

For Your Outdoor Christmas Needs


December 25th is quickly approaching, and you may have begun to feel the merry urgency in the air. With Christmas carols ringing everywhere you go, and the malls having been decorated for weeks already, it is definitely time to break out your outdoor Christmas decorations. Between lights, window decorations, lawn figurines, and the front door wreath, you can create a festive world to set the holiday mood. Your outdoor Christmas décor, from simple to extravagant, will delight you, your family, and your neighborhood all at once.

It’s virtually impossible to do your outdoor Christmas decoration justice without the basic outdoor Christmas lights. Lights come in so many forms that you can hang them anywhere, set them up on nearly anything. Starlight spheres and Moravian stars hang from trees or porch ceilings. Silhouettes and motifs in colorful lights of all heights can be set up anywhere on your front lawn. The essential outdoor Christmas lighting, of course, lies in icicle lights. They’re delicate. They’re enchanting. They can be strung from all your door frames, trees, and bushes. Warm or cool lighting, in multi-color or clear.

The second most important decoration is that pivotal tree. You can decorate it the same way you do your indoor tree, only make sure your ornaments are weather proof! Outdoor Christmas tree lights will make this plain bush come alive, as will little figurines that light up. Outdoor Christmas ornaments are easy to find; don’t be daunted by the idea. Anywhere that sells indoor ornaments should make outdoor versions available as well.

An outdoor Christmas nativity set is a classic.  These decorative replicas of the birth scene will bring anyone back to those cozy childhood holiday memories.Using these outdoor Christmas displays can complete your festive front lawn with something meaningful, and not just decorative. Connect this year’s holiday to centuries of celebration. Nativity sets, known as a crèche, include figures and backgrounds or landscapes made of wood, glass, ceramic, grass, straw, fabric, and plastic stone. Choose a set that will withstand your holiday climate!

A truly fantastic addition to your holiday lawn will be an outdoor Christmas train. Train decorations come in different sizes, but this three dimensional, colorful, lit decoration is true fun for anyone who sets eyes on it. Some designs even make music, as well. Wrapped gifts, elves, even Santa himself make an appearance on the classic Christmas train. It’s pretty hard to resist.

For more outdoor Christmas decorating ideas, take a little surf on the web. See what eBay and Amazon are selling, or check out a few other Christmas decoration sites. Investing in a few lights, rope motifs, and one or two larger pieces will make the outdoor holiday decorations complete.


Do The Christmas Tree Shop Dance


By now, either your children, parents, cousins, or neighbors are bothering you about that yearly tree investment. Where is your tree? How have you not put up your tree yet? It’s basically social blasphemy to not have made a trip to one of your nearest Christmas tree shop locations and purchased the thing already. What would the holiday be without a Christmas tree? In fact, what would your winter be?

Even if you’ve pushed this event off every other year, don’t let it happen now. Every winter can be a time of renewal. Make a resolution to stop procrastinating! Gather the courage, enlist a friend, or the children, or even the neighbor’s kids, to head over to the Christmas tree shop and make that pivotal selection. Once you’ve done it, there’s no question you’ll be thrilled. As will everyone else.

You still feel lost and hesitant? Open up your local newspaper. There have to be dozens of advertisements for various Christmas tree shops and lots with hundreds of trees to choose from. Everyone is trying to out sell the next, so you should be able to find some great deals by now, too. If you even take a stroll down your street, you’re likely to see a Christmas tree shop flyer or two hanging from a lamp post or telephone pole. Small trees, tall trees, broad trees, slim trees, there is one just waiting for you to bring him home. If you wait too long, all the Christmas tree shops within reasonable traveling distance are going to sell out on the good looking trees. Then you’ll really disappointed with what you get. May as well get out there now, while the green is full and fresh.

If you say that you’re lazy and don’t want to make the trip out in the cold, or perhaps you say your car isn’t big enough to carry a tree, or maybe you don’t want to dirty it’s vacuumed interior with holiday festivity trimmings…well, I still have an answer for you. Turn on the computer. If you’re a real couch potato, it’s already on. You can do that Christmas tree shop online deal instead. Make a quick and easy order, let the vendor do the selecting for you, and they’ll even deliver it straight to your door. They may even set it up for you in that sad, bare living room.

I think it’s fairly obvious that there are no excuses anymore. The time has come. Bring that holiday festivity home in a Christmas tree that will make life lasting memories sweet.


Right At Home With A Coleman Stove


While you might think of camping the second someone mentions a Coleman stove, these portable cookers are great items, even when you’re not roughing it. If you want to have a backyard cookout but don’t own a barbecue, a Coleman grill stove might just be the perfect solution. But whether you plan on using it in your own backyard or on a camping or backpacking trip, the first thing is to make sure to pick the model that’s perfect for your needs.

Coleman stoves come in a variety of sizes and fuel types. All are easy to use. The food you eat on this excursion can make or break the entire experience. With the right stove, cooking, eating, and packing away after meal times will be fun and memorable. The two most common fuel types are gas and propane. Both have advantages and disadvantages. Gas containers are reusable, propane cylinders are not. Gas gives you more fire per container, propane needs more to go the same distance. Propane flames get hotter faster and stay hot longer. You can find a great Coleman camp stove for either fuel type.

Of the propane designs, the Coleman two burner propane stove is most highly recommended by seasoned campers for canoe trips and car camping, where weight is not an issue (it weighs 11 pounds). It’s large enough for family pans, the propane cylinders last, and is easy to use. For backpacking, however, you may want to ditch the Coleman propane stove design entirely.

A small Coleman gas stove, the Coleman duel fuel stove “Exponent Feather” is most recommended for backpackers. A mere 24 ounces, this Coleman camping stove will burn either white gas or unleaded gasoline, though white gas is cleaner. It has fold out legs to keep from tipping, is compact, and has an adjustable flame control. For trips longer than 1 to 2 days, you’ll have to refuel by boiling water or melting snow. For short backpacking trips, however, this stove is perfect.

Coleman has a number of other models, as well, but these two come with the highest recommendations. It is said that newer gas models of the Coleman two burner stove feel cheap and less durable than their older designs. The Coleman camp stoves from decades past can still be used with outstanding reliability. If you want a large gas stove, it may even be worthwhile to buy an old model for cheap and get it serviced. Most people don’t complain much about even about the newer Coleman camping stoves, however, so if that’s what you have as a gas option, enjoy to the fullest.


1 Cup Coffee Maker For Single Serves


There are dozens of reasons you might be looking for a single cup coffee maker. A great tasting brew wherever you go, whenever you want, using an inexpensive and compact machine…it really does sound fantastical. Yet 1 cup coffee makers have made the dream possible. Keep it in your personal office cubicle, in the dorm room where no one else share’s your morning coffee love, or at home in that kitchen short on counter space. It will hardly take up a few square inches. Single cup machines brew directly into your mug, too, requiring less cleanup and ensured fresh, never scorched, coffee in every serving. For the best 1 cup coffee maker, you’ll have to do some comparison shopping. Below is a beginner’s guide.

Melitta 1 cup coffee maker: Melitta has been in the coffee making business for over 100 years. The single cup Melitta is small, stylish, and easy to use. Some complaints about the water reservoir being a sticky deal to open, but it brews both tea and coffee (in separate pod holders), as well as giving you a 5 oz. or 8 oz. option. You can pay about $60 to $80 for their best single serve.

Black and Decker 1 cup coffee maker is a much cheaper edition. Built entirely of plastic, the parts are jerky and make for sloppy counters. A careless bachelor’s coffee maker, no doubt. If you’re not picky, however, and just want that cup, you can easily find these machines for under $25.

Toastess 1 cup coffee maker is comparable to the Black and Decker, with a little lower price; under $18. Both of these are really meant for travelers with a necessary coffee fix routine.

The Cuisinart 1 cup coffee maker is a step up in single serve coffee. Or two or three steps. It will make coffee from pods or ground coffee, includes a charcoal water filter, has a 60 oz. water resevoir for those repeated “single cups,” as well as a host of other features. You pay for the features, at about $130. The Cuisinart commercial 1 cup coffee maker is much simpler and much cheaper, about $35. With the Cuisinart name.

Hamilton Beach 1 cup coffee maker actually will make 12 cups of coffee, only dispensing them on at a time. Single serve, but not portable. This design does ensure fresher coffee, however, and has a great design that avoids spills, coffee scorching, and includes a time and clock, as well. Gold tone and water filters to top it off at an easy $35.

Mr Coffee 1 cup coffee maker is actually comparable in price to the Black & Decker 1 cup coffee maker, but exceeds it in both machine quality and coffee quality. It holds a variety of mug or cup sizes, avoids splatters, has an easy to maneuver water resevoir, and cleans easily. Between $20 and $30.

From here, the decision is yours! Enjoy that single serve!



KitchenAid Coffee Maker Magnificence


In your search for next generation quality coffee, you will be delighted to face the deluxe KitchenAid JavaStudio coffee maker. KitchenAid’s primary coffee maker lines are the Pro Line Series and the JavaStudio Collection. There is hardly any argument to be had: for a large, sleek, easy to use, long lasting appliance, this KitchenAid coffee maker is at the top of the list.

The JavaStudio model in KitchenAid coffee makers is fairly astounding with all the product features and accessories included. For example, its JavaSpa showerhead that socks the filter basket with hot water to ensure uniform coffee extraction. The gold tone permanent KitchenAid coffee maker filter means quality coffee, the ion exchange KitchenAid coffee maker water filter, the whopping 14 cup glass KitchenAid coffee maker carafe…all part of the innovative KitchenAid design. The JavaStudio is programmable, as well, so that you can watch your coffee’s progress from beginning to end as well as enjoy an easy 24 hour timer for freshly brewed coffee any time of day or night. Every one of your KitchenAid coffee maker parts are designed to live a long, productive life serving you and your kitchen.

The JavaStudio Programmable Coffee Maker is large, however. For this 14 cup machine, you’ll need 8 ¼ inches of width and 11 ½ inches of depth on your counter. It stands 13 ¾ inches tall and weighs a nice 9 lbs. The size won’t bother you so much, however, when you get to choose from three stylish colors. Any KitchenAid coffee maker red, black, or white actually decorates your counter; it doesn’t clutter.

While KitchenAid advertises this coffee machine to be sold at $129.99, you can easily find it for anywhere between a relieving $85 and $100. Kitchen coffee maker replacement parts are also easily available for fractional costs at appliance parts dealers all over the web. While the gold tone KitchenAid coffee maker filters are permanent, in case of damage or other problems, you can either use disposable filters or buy a replacement filter. Same thing goes for KitchenAid coffee maker water filters; they will regularly need attendance. Finding compatible ion exchange water filters will be a breeze.

So what have we covered? The JavaStudio design, parts, features, ease of use, cost, and breezy maintenance. That’s a load of perfection. For those reasons alone, you’ll enjoy this KitchenAid model. That’s before even tasting the delicious coffee it puts forth!


An Industrial Mixer For The Serious Cook


If you’re looking for a gift for a serious cook, a high quality stand mixer is a perfect idea. If you yourself are a serious cook, you won’t want to pass one of these up either. There are a few reliable brands to choose from. Don’t get overexcited, however, by buying a full size industrial mixer unless you’re sure the motor strength and mixer size are absolutely needed. Industrial mixers are bulky. They’re also not very aesthetically pleasing. Purchasing a professional industrial food mixer is a serious investment that you’ll want to be very confident with.

Large scale operations, like bakery chains, rely on industrial food mixers with bowl capacities between 100 and 300 quarts. That’s huge. If you’re looking for an industrial kitchen mixer for a café from home, you hold large bake sales on a regular basis, or have a small home catering business, then a professional counter top floor mixer should be sufficient. These machines have bowl capacities between 5 quarts to 30 quarts.

One of the most reliable names in kitchen appliances is KitchenAid. The KitchenAid industrial mixer is no exception. There are a number of models to choose from. The differences revolve around bowl capacity and motor strength. Some stand on the floor, some on countertops. Depending on your needs and available space, you can choose from a variety of quality products.

There are other industrial mixer manufacturers, as well. Quattro and Metcalfe both have at least one line of industrial stand mixer with a good reputation. You will have to do some research on the sizes and scales for which their machines are relevant. Quattro definitely has a line of 7 quart and 12 quart countertop mixers. Metcalfe designs are usually larger, more appropriate for hotels and restaurants.

As these machines can be fairly expensive, easily around $1,000, it might be worthwhile to look for used industrial mixers. They are expected to last an incredibly long time, so buying from a café that is going out of business or a small motel closing down may be a good bet. You will pay a fraction of the price for a machine in wonderful condition. Be sure to ask about malfunctions. Look out for obvious signs of wear and tear. And, as with any appliance or piece of electronics, only buy used machines from a worthy company and within the product’s warranty. Expired warranties can easily lead to disappointing purchases.


Bed Risers Rise To The Occasion


Everyone can use more storage space, so we buy storage closets, shelves, and sheds, but they don’t fit everything. There never seems to be enough space to hide the extra stuff that makes the house too cluttered. When you get some of your own bed risers, you’ll marvel at this ingenious idea, and put them to good use right away.

When the cleaning lady comes, she always comments on the clutter and gets to work throwing things away. The problem is, she doesn’t only throw toss the junk, important papers also wind up in the trash bin. The only place she wont think to look is under the beds. That’s why you need a bed riser. You can place everything neatly in bins under the bed, and cover the edges with decorative dust ruffle, and viola, your stuff is safe. Bed risers can be placed under the legs of the bed, or you could get bed frame risers, which are attached to the frame itself, and raises the bed that way

Plastic bed risers can be found all over, and they are pretty inexpensive, just make sure they are strong, because you don’t want them cracking. Metal bed risers and wood bed risers may cost a bit more, but they are both strong and recommended options. A convenient make is the adjustable bed riser- you can make your bed the height you want, allowing you to have as much space as you need. When you send your kids away for school, make sure they pack dorm bed risers, because dorm closet space is notoriously limited. This way you’ll know they’ll have enough space to store all of their things under their beds, in plastic containers or the like.

Another benefit of these bed risers is not so known. When patients suffer from heartburn, or other gastronomic ailments, doctors recommend to sleep with the head elevated. One easy way to do this is to simply attach a bed frame riser to both sides of the head of the bed, and your head is perfectly elevated. This is sure to give you a good night’s sleep.

When you run out of closet space, you now know that you don’t have to worry about where you’ll put the rest your things. Neatly pack the old clothes or bills into storage containers and place them under your bed, so they’ll be out of sight and out of mind until you need them next.


Closet Shelves Keep You Organized


Where would we all be without our closet shelves?  In every room of the house, these shelves are used for all sorts of things.  From the bedroom to the bathroom to the linen closet, these shelves definitely make our lives more organized and put together.

Closet shelving is needed to keep our lives in order.  Imagine going into your kitchen, trying to look for something to eat without the pantry closet shelves neatly holding everything you need.  Or what about trying to find a clean set of linen when it is not neatly piled on your linen closet shelving. You’ll never be able to find anything.  It’s important to try to keep your shelves as orderly as possible, this way whatever you need will always be easily accessible.  A closet shelving system is one way to keep yourself organized.  It also helps to have bins to keep all of the small things together- label them so you’ll know what’s inside each one.

Closet shelves need to be sturdy. You don’t want to have everything falling down or being tilted by a shelf that can not hold heavy weight. Wire closet shelving is a good option, as it is durable and strong, ideal for heavy items such as cans or tools.  Wood closet shelving is also recommendable, as long as it is strong and not easy to bend.  When choosing your shelves, be sure to keep in mind what they will be used for,  so that they will be able to hold the weight you need.

For people that are handy, building closet shelves is an ideal option.  This way, the shelves can be custom build for what you need, and be placed exactly where you want.  You really have to know how to build closet shelves before attempting this, or else you wind up with a bigger mess then you started with.  If you build closet shelves, you can be  creative and think of original ways to store your stuff, adding a unique twist to your home.  Attaching shelves to the upper section of the wall is a great space-saver, besides for being a convenient place to put things; when you do things yourself, the sky is the limit.

Next time you do spring cleaning or just want to get organized, a great place to start is in the closets.  When you organize those shelves, you will feel very good about yourself, and appreciate being able to find everything you need without any effort.


Lost Without A Garage Organizer


I would propose that it is virtually impossible to have a neat, organized, easy to clean garage without investing in some sort of garage organizer. In most homes, the garage is not used enough on a regular basis to make continuous cleaning, dusting, and daily organization a practical reality. Garage organizing takes time. It takes effort. It’s something that nobody wants to tackle.

If you had access to real garage organization systems, however, you might look at the whole chapter differently. With a garage tool organizer, you might actually be motivated to put drills, hammers, and screwdrivers in their place. With a garage wall organizer for gardening gloves, nails, screws, and bolts, there would always be an easy place to put things back…and find them again next time. No more shuffling through torn nail boxes or glass jars towering with wrenches and screwdrivers. It would all line up neatly. It would have a chance of remaining that way.

In fact, if you shop around for some garage organization ideas, you might even get excited.  You don’t have to stop with basic wall shelves. Installing fun cabinets, buying a rolling work table with storage drawers, building real shelf space for all the items you have, racks for roller blades and bikes can be a project the whole family will enjoy. The kids might roll their eyes when you tell them that it’s time for organizing a garage. When you show them some plans, break out the tools, and get to work, however, they’ll join the fun. You’ll have a whole team of garage organizers.

First step is to empty out the garage. You need to properly prepare your space for true garage storage organization. Move the car. Take out bikes, skateboards, old dollhouses, all the boxes and tools. Set them in the driveway. Part with what you don’t need. Sweep, vacuum, do it all. Turning the garage into a clean slate will help you to be more efficient, productive, and happier with your end product. Then, begin installations. Using pre drawn plans for your garage organizer systems, put your cabinets, shelves, racks, and hooks in place. After that, you can begin the move in. You’ll quickly see how enjoyable it is to put skates where they belong, line up nails in their little nail boxes, hang gardening tools on their designated hooks. Camping equipment and boxes of seasonal or baby clothing will happily sit on high shelving for infrequent use.

Sweep the floor again. Stand back. Feel good. You have successfully beautified your home with a garage organization system. With a hearty pat on the back, enjoy.


Soapstone Countertops Top Your Kitchen


Are you tired of seeing the same old counters every morning as you prepare yourself a cup if coffee?  Instead of redoing you countertops with the usual marble or granite, why not try soapstone countertops.  No matter if your kitchen is old-style or contemporary these countertops will fit in very well.  Their naturally rich darker colors will add warmth and beauty to your kitchen.

What Is A Soapstone Counter?

Soapstone is actually made out of a mineral called talc, not out of anything to do with soap, as its name implies, it’s just called that because of the soft feel that it has, that is similar to the feel of soap.   You’ll know someone has soapstone if  when you visited them five years age, they had light gray counters, but today their counters turned a darker gray- that’s one of the qualities of  this stone- it darkens with age.   If you don’t like that gradual change and you like the look of total even coloring, you can force the change to happen faster and more evenly by applying miner oil to it regularly.

You may be wondering what the real difference is between soapstone and other counters, and if you should go ahead and buy it.  So I’ll show you the pros and cons, and let you decide.

Soapstone Countertops Pros And Cons

We’ll start with the pros of these counters. Soapstone is a very durable material, and extremely heat resistant.  In fact, many  times ovens in pizza stores are made from this material, for that reason.   You will not have to worry about placing a very hot pot on this counter, thereby making your cooking experience easier and with less hassle.  Because of its durability and because of its natural chemistry, you will be able to use almost any cleanser on its surface, without worry about it’s deterioration.

Soapstone also does not stain easily, which is a very important factor in your kitchen, where you don’t want your countertops to look discolored, due to stains from foods such as blueberries or tomatoes.

Ok, so now for the cons.  If  you’re looking for counters that require little or no maintenance, then soapstone is not for you.  For the first year, you will have to treat the countertop monthly with mineral oil.  After that, it will require treatment only every few months.  Because of it’s softer surface, these counters are more easily chipped and scratched then other surfaces, so using your countertop as a cutting board is not a good idea.

To get rid of the scratches, you’ll need to sand it down, using some good old elbow grease until it looks as good as new.   Before purchasing these countertops you need to keep in mind that the color gets darker with time.  Although many are attracted by this feature, others are not because they find that the darkened colors no longer match their kitchen.  Opting for black soapstone countertops is one solution, as that obviously won’t get any darker  Another concern is that soapstone countertops prices can considerably exceed that of other kinds of countertops, for several reasons.

Cost Of Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone countertops cost more then other materials, and if you have a tight budget, this may not be an option.  Also keep in mind that if  the surface cracks, you will have to replace the entire slab that covers that particular counter, which can wind up costing you a pretty penny.   One solution to this potential problem is to opt for soapstone tile countertops.  In the event that there is some cracking, you will only have to replace the individual tiles that were damaged.

Soapstone counter top prices are based on the size, weight, and thickness of  the piece.  There is additional cost for  the backslash and decorative finishing.  There are discount soapstone countertops available, and with the proper  shopping around, you may be able to find something suitable for you.

Another option is DIY soapstone countertops.  It is much easier to do it yourself with soapstone, as opposed to other materials, because the stone itself is softer and easier to work with.

So, now that you have the facts laid out for you, good luck deciding on your new kitchen.  If you choose to use the beautiful soapstone, you’ll be sure to enjoy its natural look and feel for many years.


Cuisinart Mixer For The Cuisine Art Lovers


For anyone who spends cooking time in the kitchen knows intimately that gadgets or accessories to make cooking and baking easier are very valuable. Cuisinart mixers are one such innovation. The latest Cuisinart boasts a huge stainless steel bowl of seven quarts, a 1000 watt motor, and three power ports for Cuisinart mixer attachments versatility. Easy to use and beautiful in all three colors, it would be a shame to miss out. For under four hundred dollars, you’ll get the Cuisinart mixer stand, bowl, a chef’s whisk, missing paddle, and dough hook, as well as all the built in features like tilt back head, 12 speeds, countdown timer, and more.

There are older versions of electric Cuisinart hand mixers as well. Anywhere from 220 watt to 800 watt and higher, with varying levels of versatility, speeds, and fancy gadget attachments. Smaller machines with lower wattage will handle lighter, smaller loads of batters and doughs.

414OyUWotBL._AA280_

Cuisinart mixer reviews only expound upon the glory and fun in owning one of these machines. In the seven quart bowl with all that wattage, whole grain doughs, mounds of whip cream, biscuit batters will all be blended, mixed, or folded perfectly. Even if you accidentally run the machine for too long and it should overheat, the power protector will save your Cuisinart from any damage. Consumers rave on its ease of use, efficiency, and stylish looks. It is difficult to find a negative Cuisinart mixer review. Perhaps the bowl is too large for someone of very small stature. That’s as bad as it gets.

Factory direct or from authorized dealers, it is easy to get replacement Cuisinart mixer parts as well. It’s as simple as plugging in your model number and making the order. You can expect it to be a while before you need to replace anything, however. These machines last. Unless you lose a piece, or have already given your Cuisinart years of wear, pocket this information for later.

If your kitchen lover already has a Cuisinart, consider Cuisinart mixer accessories as a fun and exciting gift. The sausage attachment set, meat grinder, food processor, citrus juicer, and pasta maker are only a few of the numerous options. These extras can be as cheep as twelve dollars or as extravagant as $130. They’ll fit any budget. Kitchen lovers will go nuts for any Cuisinart mixer attachment. You’ll be thrilled with the results too; better food in shorter time! Guaranteed.


Kitchen Aid Attachments Breakdown


If you own a Kitchen Aid mixer, you don’t need to be told this. If you don’t, listen up. Kitchen Aid is known for its innovative and convenient designs to make kitchen work not only easier, but all the more enjoyable. From ravioli making to juicing to grinding to ice cream making, Kitchen Aid attachments makes the impossible possible. Take advantage of KitchenAid attachments for all they’re worth. You won’t regret it.

Below are some of the most popular attachments for you to enjoy:

Kitchen Aid pasta attachment
The Ravioli Maker, for $169, will pinch and seal whatever kind of ravioli you and your family like best.
The Pasta Roller Set, $169, has two cutting tools and an adjustable roller that kneads pasta dough. The cutters have thickness settings for fettuccini, linguini, spaghetti, and more.

Kitchen Aid ice cream attachment
This two quart (tremendous) ice cream bowl will produce soft consistency ice cream, sorbet, or gelato swiftly and efficiently. The dasher inside this freeze bowl will spread, scrape, and mix the batter for you. All you have to do is decide what flavor you want…until the next round! Only $79.

Kitchen Aid meat grinder attachment
Though best bought as part of the mixer pack, the KitchenAid food grinder will grind any fruits or vegetables in addition to meat. The required piece will also include pasta plates for making different styles of pasta. Great, for $49.

You also have the option of buying attachment packages, instead of each Kitchen Aid attachment individually. Packages offer multiple tools at one great price. The pasta excellence kit, for example contains the pasta rollers and ravioli maker pieces for $275. The mixer attachment package, for $179, includes a grinder, shredder, slicer, and strainer to take care of all your fruit, vegetable, and meat grinding needs.


KitchenAid Attachments Mean Kitchen Fun


The KitchenAid brand has continued to impress homemakers and kitchen users for decades. The KitchenAid Stand Mixer and Artisan Mixer are two of this company’s most popular and world renowned products. Did you know that there are over fifty KitchenAid mixer attachments to further expand your mixer’s functionality? KitchenAid attachments are creative ways for you to be able to do more in the kitchen while still using your basic KitchenAid unit. Whether you want to shred cheese, grind meat, or make ravioli or ice cream, Kitchen Aid attachments will have you covered. That is what you call impressive.

A KitchenAid pasta attachment might be the pasta cutter, pasta roller, ravioli maker, drying rack, or pasta maker plates. Depending on what aspect of pasta making you want to transform into incredible convenience, you can any or all of these piece.

A KitchenAid attachment pack is the thrifty way to go, however. Their pasta excellent kit and or pasta roller set will give you multiple attachments for one low price. KitchenAid also sells packages for shredding, grinding, and slicing meats, cheeses, and vegetables. A citrus juicer pack is a fun idea. Their gourmet specialty KitchenAid attachment pack includes everything mentioned aside from the juicer. For only $140.

When the summer sets in, or if you’re one of those who love ice cream in the winter, you’ll love the KitchenAid ice cream attachment. Preparing up to two quarts, their ice cream maker will make ice cream, sorbet, or gelato in no time. Other frozen desserts, too. You won’t have to do much cleaning of it, either…ice cream bowls tend to get cleaned by taster fingers.

Simpler KitchenAid hand mixer attachments make kneading dough or whipping whip cream a cinch. Hand mixer is a misnomer, in fact, seeing as KitchenAid ensures that you’ll hardly have to any dirty work with your own hands. Little pieces like a can opener attachment consolidates your kitchen work, making it all the more enjoyable.

When purchasing pieces, remember that there are different models. KitchenAid Artisan attachments may not always be compatible with older models, and vice versa. Some attachments are interchangeable, too. Having your model number at hand will always be of great use.

You don’t have to buy attachments from KitchenAid itself. With a little research, you may be able to find reputable dealers selling factory direct discount KitchenAid attachments to glamorize and functionalize your fabulous KitchenAid. This might be more fun than you thought!


Cafe Curtains With Charm


Kitchens, usually not the largest room in the house, tend to look and feel best with maximum natural light. The warmth created by large windows and plenty of sun in a kitchen makes it an enjoyable place to be. That’s aside from kitchen potted plants that thrive on sunlight, or the helpful drying affect of a warm sun. Yet bare windows are not attractive. Nor do they provide necessary privacy. Kitchen cafe curtains are an answer that you’ll appreciate from beginning to end.

A cafe curtain is a curtain that begins its hang partway down the window. The top part of the window is left bare, for maximum sunlight. The cafe curtain rods may be placed 1/3, 1/2, or even 2/3 down the window height. The curtains themselves might be light lace or opaque tiers; this is where personality and creativity takes the wheel.

For a very delicate and feminine look, lace cafe curtains are perfect. Lace itself allows sunlight to filter in, brightening the kitchen even more. The pretty shadows created by the lace will be enjoyed as well. Lace curtains themselves seem to dance out of the early 20th century, furthering the cute kitchen look of the 1920’s. Sheer cafe curtains do a similar lighting job, but are slightly less feminine and slightly more contemporary. Both lace and sheer fabrics come in a variety of colors to perfectly complement your kitchen style.

Cotton cafe curtains are more opaque than lace or sheer. They have more of a presence. Cotton thickness varies, however. The thicker the cotton, the heavier the curtains will feel. Cotton fabrics make great tier cafe curtains. The cotton will hold the shape well enough to give each tier a nice flounce. Very cute. For something a little more geometric (and less little girlish), consider striped cafe curtains. Consider a pair of horizontal stripes across the lower hem for simplicity, or numerous multicolored stripes for the more energetic taste. Perhaps stripes will even inspire you to go plaid.

Do some window shopping or surf the net. Get an idea of what style curtains makes you feel most comfortable, bright, and happy. Perhaps you will like the hardy texture of linen cafe curtains best. Or it might be the straight lines of curtains held in place by rods at both top and bottom. You may get lucky and find a cafe curtains clearance sale in your search.

Whether you decide to buy café curtains or sew them yourself, you can’t go wrong. Neither are they expensive to buy, no are they difficult as a do it yourself project; simple, fun, and lasting results.


« Previous PageNext Page »