Design A Master Bedroom & Bath

A master bedroom suite should have an open feel.

Plan a master bedroom and bath to be somewhat of a retreat in your home. Include colors and fabrics that look upscale. Even a small space can seem very luxurious if you take time to shop for furniture, bath fixtures and accessories that look expensive. For example, luxury hotels sometimes use black furniture with red and gold accents to give an upscale feel to the room. Design the room in your ideal way, and then figure out ways to make the plan fit your budget by checking out sales and outlet stores.

Instructions

1. Sketch a master bedroom and bath you would build if budget were no object. Start with your favorite furniture pieces, rugs, accent pieces and bath fixtures. Include items such as a large garden tub or walk-in shower with sit-down bench. By creating the best room you can possibly imagine, you can figure out ways to make substitutions for less important items, and buy the large items that really matter.

2. Designate a budget you can afford in creating the area. Sketch furniture pieces you must have in the sleeping area and new features you'd really like in the bath area. If you can't afford new pieces, use pieces you already have and refinish them. For example, you can paint odd pieces with semi-gloss black paint to make them harmonize seamlessly. If you don't need to replace bath fixtures, considering adding a hot tub in one corner. Again, spend on large items that add pizazz.

3. Pick out curtains, a bedspread and rugs you like in catalogs or in person. Select a neutral color from these fabric items. Use this color to paint the walls of the master bedroom and bath. For example, you might select a pale yellow. Use this color on at least one wall in the bedroom and one in the bathroom to tie everything together. The walls and trim molding should pick up color from fabric and rugs in a tasteful and subtle way.

4. Design the space to include crown molding and new closet doors. Even if you are renovating space, you want the new suite and bathroom to look completely new. New woodwork will make it look refurbished. To continue with the idea of making the space look new, add an upholstered chair. Buy new throw pillows and artwork, even if inexpensive, to freshen the room. Change a bed to face in a different direction, or paint the old bath vanity a new shade.

5. Work on the closet space and storage space to hide all the clutter. Design the bedroom to look open and relaxed by keeping all papers, clothes and junk out of sight. Build under-the-bed storage if necessary, or buy plastic storage to slide under the beds. Create a storage system in the closet with wire shelving and small chests that stack for hiding small clothing items. Give the suite a well-organized feel throughout. Carry this organization into the bath area by installing shelving or closets to hide additional clutter.

Tags: master bedroom, bath fixtures, master bedroom bath, bath area, bedroom bath, clutter Design

Decorate A Virtual Bedroom

Design a bedroom virtually.

It's often difficult to come up with creative ideas for designing and decorating your home. Hiring an interior designer or interior decorator is the ideal way to give your home a professional look, but the price you'd pay for their services is not a plausible option for everyone. Today's technology has provided the opportunity to use our own creative-thinking skills to decorate virtually. A virtual bedroom design is literally right at the tip of your fingers.

Instructions

Decorating a Virtual Bedroom

1. Purchase interior design software. Read software reviews to decide which program will work best for your personal needs.

2. Install software on your computer. Insert the disk into the disk drive and follow the installation instructions on the screen.

3. Begin creating your virtual bedroom. Specify details of your actual bedroom for accuracy. Include square-footage, ceiling height, window and door space, etc.

4. Practice with the design tools. Change wall colors, floor coverings, furniture placement and window treatments. Discover wall borders, rugs, bedding and ceiling fans.

5. Determine what you want your bedroom to look like. Choose your desired wall color and floor covering. Place your bed near a window or against the largest wall. Be creative, and envision your virtual design in your actual home.

6. Print your virtual bedroom design. Use this as a pattern for decorating your bedroom at home. Contact an interior designer for additional assistance.

Tags: your virtual, bedroom design, decorating your, interior designer, virtual bedroom design

Dining Table Sizes

Formal dining tables require more space for utensils and accoutrements

Dining tables are available in round, square, oval, oblong or rectangular shapes. Table size requirements depend on the formality of the meal and the number of people to be seated. The dimensions of the room in which the table is located also determines size.

Round Tables

Round tables typically are smaller and seat fewer people than oval or oblong tables. A table that is 36 to 44 inches in diameter seats four to six, one that is 45 to 54 inches will seat four to six and a 60- to 70-inch-diameter table should seats six to eight individuals. Square tables fall into this category, ranging from 24 to 40 inches per side and seating four.

Oval and Oblong

Oval tables have rounded edges, while oblong tables are rectangular in shape and have corners. Tables of both shapes with the same dimensions will seat the same number of people. These range from 28 by 46 inches, seating four to six, to 42 iby 120 inches, accommodating 12 to 16.

Place Settings

Ideally, each individual should have at least 24 inches of room for a place setting. Formal events allow for 29 inches, while specialized or ethnic dinners need larger settings to accommodate utensils.

Tags: from inches, number people, oblong tables, seating four, that inches, will seat

Deal With Dorm Bathrooms

Invest in a bathrobe and shower caddy to help deal with dorm bathrooms.

Moving to a dormitory from your parents' house or an off-campus apartment may require an adjustment period. Inconsiderate roommates and loud neighbors are not problems limited to dormitories; however, the small living quarters, shared bathroom facilities and diverse population may cause tension and stress to dorm-dwellers. Use different techniques to deal with communal bathrooms, large facilities shared by an entire floor, and en-suite bathrooms, private bathrooms shared by a few roommates.

Instructions

Communal Bathrooms

1. Invest in a shower caddy to carry your shower supplies from your dorm room to the communal bathroom. Make sure to bring a towel, your caddy, and a bathrobe or clean clothing to the bathroom before you shower.

2. Wear shower shoes or waterproof sandals to protect your feet against bacteria and infections like planter warts and athlete's foot.

3. Monitor the traffic in the bathroom for a few days to determine the least-busy times to shower. You may need to wake up earlier or adjust your schedule to account for waiting time. Be patient -- wait your turn if there is a line.

4. Be respectful of other's possessions and privacy. Don't hover near the shower stalls or use other's bath products without permission.

5. Don't make a mess deliberately. You may not have to clean communal bathrooms, but other students may need to use the facilities before a staff member can clean up the mess. Alert dormitory staff members about any maintenance issues or unsanitary areas in the bathroom.

En-Suite Bathrooms

6. Create a cleaning schedule for the bathroom. Choose a rotational schedule so the responsibility is shared evenly. Make sure everyone agrees with the schedule and signs it before posting it in the bathroom.

7. Find out if the dormitory will supply paper products like toilet paper or tissue for your bathroom. Create a rotational schedule for purchasing paper products if they are not provided.

8. Remove your dirty clothes and towels from the bathroom every day. Avoid cluttering the bathroom with your things.

9. Resolve any complaints or issues with roommates as they occur. Use respectful language and a calm tone when addressing issues with your roommates. Ask your resident assistant or hall director to intervene if the conflict becomes too heated.

Tags: communal bathrooms, deal with, from your, issues with, Make sure

Make A Dining Table From Recycled Wood

Reclaimed or recycled wood makes a great rustic table.

The most difficult part of building a table from recycled and reclaimed wood is finding the perfect pieces of wood. Assembling the pieces of wood from various origins is similar to completing a puzzle, but the highly unique and conversation-inspiring outcome is certainly worth the trouble. To streamline the process, assemble the pieces in their rough positions before installing them permanently to ensure that no pieces are missing.

Instructions

1. Stand two of the 4-by-4 posts up on their ends and lay one of the 1 inch by 4 inch boards across the tops, with the posts right on the ends. Predrill four evenly spaced holes through the top board and into each post. Attach the boards using the 3-inch wood screws. Repeat for the other set of posts.

2. Assemble the tabletop upside down on the work surface. Arrange all boards in their intended order so that there are no gaps or spaces. Lay the four 1/2-inch by 4-inch boards evenly spaced across them and screw these boards to each tabletop board using two 1-inch wood screws.

Ideas For A Blue Teenage Girl'S Bedroom

Blue is a good wall color in any space.

Blue is traditionally a room color for boys, but it can work quite well for a girl's room. Blue is a good choice of wall color in any space; it conveys a sense of peace, calm and tranquility. And in a teenage girl's bedroom, you can play up the whimsy of the color in fun and quirky ways.

Tips and Techniques

Incorporate blue by using room accents.

If you're thinking a room with four blue walls may be too much, keep the color from becoming overpowering by using a very pale, pastel shade of blue, perfect for a girl's room. Using a light color on walls makes any space seem bigger. Or, instead of painting the walls, incorporate the color with room accents: curtains, blue bedding, decorative pillows, throws, rugs and/or carpet and even the lampshades.

Mix and Match

Tone-on-tone color palettes look great.

You're not limited to putting the same blue on all four walls. Paint whatever strikes your teen's fancy: designs, patterns, polka dots, stripes, motifs or alternating walls. Tone-on-tone color palettes look great, and there are many shades to choose from such as cobalt, sapphire, azure, topaz, indigo, periwinkle, navy and many more. Don't forget the ceiling! Also try blending the color, going from midnight blue to sky blue, or incorporating another shade, going from cerulean to blue-green.

Pretty Picture

Paint a mural featuring hot-air balloons.

Murals are a fun décor element. For your teen's blue bedroom, use a mural that prominently features the color. You could paint an ocean or lake with ships at sail; kites or hot-air balloons flying in the sky; or a collection of birds with blue plumage: thrushes, blue jays, peacocks, herons, kingfishers, warblers and swallows. Or, just paint any random object that she is fond of, such as hearts, butterflies, musical notes, flowers or fairies, and feature lots of blue.

Tags: Blue good, color palettes, color palettes look, color space, girl room

Make A Bedroom Divider

Installing a bedroom divider is an inexpensive way to provide each of your children with their own space.

Many families that include multiple children do not have the space in their homes to provide each child with a separate bedroom. If your children share a room but would like to have their own separate spaces, consider building them a bedroom divider. Installing open shelving units or other pieces of tall furniture is a simple and functional way to divide the room into separate living spaces for multiple children. Not only does this solution provide privacy but it also provides additional storage space.

Instructions

1. Rearrange the furniture in the bedroom, dividing it into two different sections. If you are dividing the bedroom into two sleeping spaces, place one bed on each side of the room. To divide a bedroom into a sleeping and living space, place the bed on one side of the room and a comfortable chair on the other side.

2. Bring two tall open shelving units into the room. If you do not have open shelving units, remove the backing from a pair of tall bookcases.

3. Position the narrow side of one of the shelving units against the wall between the two sections of the room. Place the second shelf in line with the first, with at least 12 inches of space between them. You will be placing a solid plywood wall between the shelving units, so the more space you leave between the shelves the longer your divider will be.

4. Measure the width between the two shelving units and the height of the shelves. Cut a sheet of 3/4-inch plywood to the height of the shelves and 2 inches wider than the space between the shelves.

5. Paint both sides of the plywood sheet to match the color of the shelving units or the decor scheme in the bedroom. To further separate the two halves of the room, paint the plywood a different color on each side.

6. Set the plywood sheet upright between the two shelving units, overlapping the plywood with the sides of the shelves by 1 inch on each side. Pre-drill holes through the plywood into the shelving units at the top and bottom and every 5 inches in between.

7. Insert 1 1/2-inch wood screws into each of the pre-drilled holes to attach the plywood to the shelving units.

8. Fill the shelving units with books and other items. Hang pictures, posters and other decorative items on the plywood sheet between the shelves. If you are using the divider in the bedroom for your children, allow each child to customize her side of the divider.

Tags: shelving units, between shelves, between shelving, between shelving units, each side, open shelving

Store Clothes In A Bedroom With No Closet

There are plenty of ways to keep your bedroom tidy--even without a closet.

A closet, especially a spacious one, can serve as a wonderful way to keep items organized and achieve a clutter-free room. However, if your bedroom doesn't have a closet, implementing a few decorative storage accents into your bedroom will keep things tidy even if there isn't any closet space.

Instructions

1. Separate your clothing according to what is in season. Place off-season clothing in the flat bins and stow them under your bed.

2. Paint or decorate the clothing rack to match your room's decor so it will serve as an attractive piece in the room. For instance, select a bronze or gold clothing rack if your room features these metallic shades, then wrap strips of velvet or silk ribbon around the rack to create stripes in another color that complements the bedroom's theme.

3. Hang your clothing on the hangers to create a color-coordinated system. For instance, black and gray clothing can go on the black hangers. Blue hangers can be reserved for dressy clothes, while white hangers are for professional outfits.

4. Add a chest of drawers to the room for extra storage, in keeping with your bedroom's decorative scheme. For instance, a chest of drawers made of distressed wood will complement an antique-style bedroom. Store sweaters and fitness clothes in the chest of drawers.

5. Include a bookshelf in the bedroom. Large shelf sets can be placed against the wall or a small bookshelf in a bright color will complement the corner of the room well. Adorn the shelves by gluing a strip of brightly colored fabric on the front of the shelf to make the piece especially attractive, or add patterned wallpaper to the surface of the shelves in your room's decor scheme. Use the bookshelf to store small clothing items like socks, underwear and tank tops. You can also use smaller bins on a bookshelf to contain small items of clothing.

Tags: your bedroom, chest drawers, your room, clothing rack, room decor, will complement

Use Beadboard In Bathrooms

Beadboard is a good choice for a bathroom since it's a simple way to add charm and detail to what is normally a bland, and oftentimes small, room. Beadboard adds a cottage look when hung and you can paint it to match any color scheme.

Instructions

1. Install beadboard on the bottom portion of the bathroom walls to achieve a charming cottage appearance.

2. Consider applying beadboard to the ceiling to draw the eye upward. If your bathroom is small, details like this can give the illusion of space.

3. Try using beadboard that runs horizontally rather than vertically as a way to minimize the "bowling alley" look in a long, narrow bathroom.

4. Cut the beadboard sheets into equal-sized squares and apply them to the wall in a checkerboard pattern for added interest and an unusual look.

5. Give your cabinets a face lift by covering them with beadboard. It's cheaper than purchasing new cabinets and it gives your old cabinetry a fresh new look.

6. Top your beadboard with a wide mantel shelf. The shelf can hold decorative items or a basket with rolled towels for easy access.

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Install Porcelain Tile In Bathrooms

Install Porcelain Tile in Bathrooms

Porcelain tile is commonly used in bathrooms. The bathroom is an area of high moisture, and tile is water resistant. Porcelain tile will last for years. It is durable and is available in many colors, styles and sizes. Hiring a professional to install tile in your bathroom would be costly. You can install the tile yourself for the cost of the supplies if you know measure and mark each bathroom wall that the tile will be installed on.

Instructions

1. Use a tape measure to measure the height and the width of each wall on which you want to install porcelain tile. Find the center point of each wall. Mark the center point of the wall using the marking pencil.

2. Use a chalk line to snap lines directly on the wall from the center point to each edge, right and left. Do the same from the top of the wall to the bottom, snapping a line that is at right angles to the first line. Use a laser level to make sure your lines are level. Use the tape measure to measure out from each line the number of inches wide your porcelain tile is. Make parallel lines off of each center line, including the 1/8-inch space between tiles, until you reach the edges of the wall. Do this both horizontally and vertically. Do this for every wall of the bathroom.

3. Prepare mortar mixture in a pail with water according to the package directions. Find the center point of the wall. Locate the chalk line that runs next to it. Hold the first tile in position on the wall, with its edge on the chalk line. Remove the tile, apply mortar to that spot with a trowel, and then lay the tile in the mortar, gently sliding it into position.

4. Apply mortar where the second tile will be laid. Lay the second tile so that one edge is next to the first tile and another edge is on the chalk line. Insert a 1/8-inch spacer ½ inch in from each tile corner, between the two tiles. Lay whole tiles, inserting spacers ½ inch in from each tile corner on all sides of each tile.

5. Use a tape measure to measure the space for edge tiles. Measure and mark whole tiles, and cut them with a wet saw to create edge pieces. Lay the edge pieces by applying mortar, sliding the pieces into place, then inserting spacers 1/2 inch in from each tile corner. Allow the mortar to dry for 12 hours.

6. Prepare grout mixture according to package directions. Remove all tile spacers. Use a trowel to smooth the grout mixture between the tiles, where the spaces were. Fill in all cracks between the tiles completely. Promptly remove excess grout mixture from the tile surface using a soft cloth. Use grout sealer once the grout has set for 24 hours. Caulk the junctures between walls and between the walls and the floor.

Tags: between tiles, center point, chalk line, each tile, from each, each tile corner, from each tile

Home Decorating Ideas To Paint A Dining Room

Contrasting trim adds color to a white dining room.

Selecting the right color of paint for your dining room transforms the room from everyday to memorable. When the time comes for a change in the dining area of the home, paint is typically an affordable option. Unlike wall tile or paper, paint requires a low level of preparation and application skills. Always take into consideration the existing decor in the room prior to color or pattern selection. Move all furniture from the room prior to painting, and use drop cloths to cover the floors.

Color Trim

In modern times, many walls in homes are white or beige. These bright, but sometimes boring, colors are considered neutral and therefore expected to match everything. For the decorator who is tired of plain walls but not ready to step too far out of the box, trim may be the solution. Apply a fresh coat of the desired basic color to the walls, which will give a fresh look to the room. Select a color for trim based on the existing decor of the room or an adjoining room. To keep the room subdued, select a muted shade. For a brighter touch, choose a medium or light shade of the paint color. An in-store paint professional can assist you with the proper type of paint to purchase. Use this alternate color to paint a 2- to 3-inch line around windows and at the edge of the ceiling and floor. Situate the dining table so the trim is viewable while having dinner.

Accent Wall

In each room of the home, one wall draws the attention of visitors and guests. Whether it is the wall directly across from the entrance or the only wall with a window, this wall may be painted to become an accent piece. Typically, an accent wall is created by painting a brighter color apart from the remaining walls in the room. If the base color of the room is beige, an accent wall might be painted a medium red, blue or green to set it apart. The simplistic process of creating this wall only requires the selection of a separate color to apply to the area. Place a dining table so that the main view from the area is the accent wall.

Stencil Designs

For the decorator who appreciates the design of wallpaper but wishes to stick to painting, stencil designs offer a solution. Stencils are available at craft stores and require a low level of skill to apply. For use in a dining room, paint the walls a base color to begin with. Choose a stencil to match existing decor. For example, if the tablecloth is made from a rose pattern, choose a rose stencil and matching paint. Apply the stencils to the wall above seated eye level. Whether in a straight line across the wall or scattered randomly, the stencils should be visible while eating at the dining table.

Tags: dining table, existing decor, accent wall, base color, color paint

Wire A Gfi Bathroom Exhaust Fan

A bathroom exhaust fan does not have a built in GFI, which is short for "ground fault interrupter," or GFCI, also called a "ground fault circuit interrupter." This means that if the fan gets too wet, it will not cause the circuit to trip until it causes the circuit breaker in the circuit box to overload. Most exhaust fans wire through an electrical outlet in the room. To turn your exhaust fan into a GFI fan, you must replace the non-GFI outlet with a GFI outlet. This way, when the fan gets too wet, it will trip the GFI breaker inside the electrical outlet and prevent the main breaker in the breaker box from tripping.

Instructions

1. Turn off the power to the bathroom circuit via the breaker box. After turning off the power, attempt to turn on the light switch or run an electrical appliance in the room. This will ensure you turned off all of the power to the room. In some cases, it is possible to have one room connected to two different circuits.

2. Remove the screws that hold the cover plate onto the outlet into which you want to tie. Use a screwdriver to do this. Once removed, remove the two screws that hold the outlet into the electrical box and pull the outlet out of the box.

3. Loosen the screws that hold wires on each side of the outlet and pull all of the wires off the outlet. Discard the old outlet. Make sure none of the wires touches each other.

4. Turn the power back on to the room momentarily and locate the wire with the power. To do this, use a circuit tester. It is important to know which wire carries power to the switch, since GFI outlets require the wires to go to specific junction points on the switch. Turn off the power once you know.

5. Secure the wires with power to the terminal marked "Line." To do this, wrap the exposed end of the black wire around the brass screw and tighten the screw with the screwdriver. Do the same by looping the white wire around the silver screw. If you have a bare wire, loop it around the green screw and secure it.

6. Attach the wires coming from the exhaust fan to the side of the GFI switch marked "Load." Follow the same color code as the previous set of wires.

7. Push the wires into the electrical box and secure the new GFI outlet to the box. Place the new cover plate over the outlet and secure it with a screwdriver.

8. Turn the power back on.

Tags: Turn power, screws that, screws that hold, that hold, circuit breaker, cover plate

Palm Tree Dining Room Decor

Take advantage of the palm tree design trend in the dining room.

The palm tree decorating trend continues to build momentum. You can embrace the look and liven up an outdated decorating scheme by transforming a boring dining room with exotic palm tree accents. Palm tree dining room decor adds a touch of the tropics to homes in any region of the country. Today's palm tree decor runs the gamut from contemporary to elegant to whimsical, suiting most interior design styles.

Fabrics

Palm tree fabrics can take on many forms. Pick palm tree patterned cushion covers, upholster dining room chairs and dress the windows. Choices range from understated to wild. Choose a palm tree toile for an elegant feel. Purchase vintage-looking bark cloth adorned with palm trees to complement mid-century modern architecture. A traditional twill featuring tiny embroidered palms will look right at home in a British Colonial dining room. The palm tree fabric colors should coordinate other colors in the room including furniture, walls and flooring.

Wallpaper

Palm tree wallpaper can make or break a dining room. Consider the size of the room before selecting a specific pattern. A large dining room can carry an oversize palm motif. Small patterns and tone-on-tone designs work better for a diminutive room. Go retro with an updated version of flocked palm frond wallpaper. Capture island style with grass cloth wallpaper stenciled with swaying palm trees. Quality wallpapers can be pricey, so think about papering a focal wall to showcase a buffet or hutch. As with fabric, dining room wallpaper should complement other furnishings and palm tree elements in the space.

Accessories, Lighting and Artwork

If you're on a budget, stick with neutral dining room hues, and use palm tree accessories and artwork for punches of tropical color. These items represent one of the easiest and cheapest ways to bring a taste of the islands into the dining room. Retail discounters offer a wide variety of palm tree-themed items, such as figurines, centerpiece bowls, floor vases, placemats, mantel clocks and drapery finials. Casual or formal dinnerware, woven napkins and glassware embellished with palm trees will round out the room's decor. A pair of palm tree buffet lamps provides the ideal accent on a British colonial sideboard. Cool the dining room with a ceiling fan featuring carved frond blades. Palm tree photography, botanical prints, decorative plates and woven tapestries add interest and color to the walls.

Palm Trees

Real or faux palms flanking a china cabinet or bank of windows bring palm tree decor to life. The use of tropical greenery creates instant warmth to drab dining rooms. Pick up live palms at the local home improvement center. Choose a species that will thrive indoors. Silk palms require little maintenance, short of a regular cleaning. Faux palms are a good alternative for busy homeowners.

Tags: dining room, dining room, palm tree, palm tree, dining room palm, dining room with

Bohemian Themes For Bedrooms

Color is of utmost important for the Bohemian style.

A bedroom is a retreat where you go to get away and recharge from your hectic day. This is why decorating your bedroom with a bohemian theme is a great way to introduce a relaxed, carefree feel to this space. And, due to the very heart of this design style, you can often create this look by mixing and matching furniture you already own or by shopping at a local resale shop, flea market or antique store for some unique pieces. Add some colorful, bold fabrics with a vintage feel, and you are well on your way to your new bohemian-themed bedroom.

Furniture

When selecting furniture for your bohemian bedroom retreat, you should look for unique pieces that make you feel like you're in an exotic location. Furniture with a Moroccan or Middle Eastern flair is best; however, if there is not a local Moroccan furniture warehouse near you, you can create your own bohemian bedroom focal point. One idea is to create a large, padded custom headboard with a Persian-styled arch or to create a fabric canopy over the bed. Nightstands can match each other but should not be from a set used for the bed or a dresser. The key here is to use eclectic pieces that work together but are not a matched, uniform set.

Fabrics

Bold colors are a must for any true bohemian bedroom with red, orange and pink as some of the most common colors. They can include metallic threads or embellishments as well. You can also use rich, jewel-toned sheers for creating an airy Bedouin feel around a canopy bed. Add texture to your room with gorgeous throw pillows---and do not skimp here, as tons of pillows in various shapes and sizes will give this space the romantic, comfy look you are after. Select bold prints with a vintage feel, as you do not want them to scream "brand new" or modern.

Accessories

While you may not think of paint as an accessory, it can be a crucial one for a bohemian-themed bedroom. Select a bold color for your walls. If you worry about having that much color in your room, then just paint one accent wall. To select your wall color, pull one of the non-dominant colors from your fabric choices. This trick will make your fabrics and accessories pop against your wall color. The next trick for attaining your bohemian dream space is to replace any overhead lights or ceiling fans as well as lamps with unique fixtures having a Middle Eastern or Moroccan style. Add a plant and some candles, and you are ready to relax and reap the benefits of your hard work.

Tags: bohemian bedroom, your bohemian, bedroom retreat, bedroom with, bohemian-themed bedroom

Decorate My Dining Room With English Decor

A silver coffee or tea service adds to the elegant look in your English dining room.

Decorating your dining room with an English-inspired decor creates an elegant place to entertain friends and relatives. English homes are typically more formal than other house styles and have a refined aura to the rooms. Incorporating furnishings with elegant lines and making sure the area is uncluttered adds to the traditional look of the room. Using the correct colors, wood tones, furniture and other decor is key to decorating this space.

Instructions

1. Pick dark wood tones for your dining room table and other furniture. Antique furniture also works well with English-style decor.

2. Set a vintage-looking tea cart in one section of the room to add charm to the area. Afternoon tea has long been a tradition in English homes.

3. Use white or off-white table runners or vintage linens with tiny floral designs for your dining room table.

4. Paint your walls a white or off-white color. This shade adds to the elegant and formal look of the room. If you would rather have wallpaper in the dining room, choose tiny floral prints or pinstripes. Other wallpaper that looks attractive in an English-style dining room are textured wallpapers or those with formal motifs, such as a fleur-de-lis or toile patterns.

5. Hang a crystal chandelier or other elegant light fixture directly over the center of your dining room table. Light fixtures should have lots of glass, curved or scalloped edges or porcelain elements.

6. Purchase a large area rug to go underneath your dining room table. Choose a pattern that is formal in style and has an understated design.

7. Pick artwork for your walls that depicts English homes or gardens, horses on a fox hunt or hunting dogs. This type of artwork is reminiscent of the English lifestyle and enhances the decor in your dining room area.

8. Hang wall sconces on either side of your framed paintings and other artwork. This accentuates the formal tone of the room.

9. Decorate your china cabinet with your fine china or your collectibles, but avoid cluttering the area. Another idea is to set out a silver tea or coffee service on one shelf of your china cabinet. Antique clocks, porcelain bowls with scalloped edges or a collection of silver spoons or antique tea cups are also wise choices to display in your china cabinet.

10. Pick a centerpiece that has flowers that reflect the colors throughout the dining room. Low, elegant styles work best unless the table is quite large. Fit the size of the centerpiece to the scale of the room for a balanced look. Shallow oval or round porcelain bowls filled with faux or real fruit also work well in English dining rooms.

Tags: dining room, your dining, your dining room, dining room, dining room table, room table, china cabinet

Bohemian Chic Girl'S Bedroom Ideas

An antique stand makes the perfect addition to a bohemian chic bedroom.

Bohemian chic décor combines unique furniture pieces with colorful fabrics and accessories. When designing a girl's bedroom in a bohemian chic style, play with vintage pieces, paint and patterned fabrics to create a visually interesting room. Allow the girl living in the room to have a lot of input so that the room is designed to reflect her personality.

Furniture

Browse antique stores and thrift shops to find unique pieces of furniture to add to the room. Bohemian chic style involves combining different styles of furniture for an eclectic look, so do not look for matching sets of furniture. Do not avoid pieces of furniture simply because of dents or scratches, because these elements may add visual interest to the furniture. Many pieces of furniture in bohemian chic rooms are painted with bright colors, so look at the design of a piece rather than its coloring when shopping. For a girl's room, look for a dresser, a few small chairs and unique shelving units to add to the room.

Paint Colors

Paint the walls in a bohemian chic room in one of two ways. If you have a lot of patterns and fabrics going into the room, consider painting the walls in a single light color such as white, tan or a pastel shade. If most furniture pieces and fabrics in the room simply contain bright colors, considering stenciling the walls with a unique pattern or adding a busy wallpaper to add more creativity to the room. If old furniture looks funny in the room, add a coat of paint or paint on some designs to make it fit better.

Fabrics

Choose fabrics in bright colors. If your walls are painted a basic color, add curtains with a busy pattern. For patterned walls, add single-color curtains. Add colorful scarves to the top of curtain rods, around picture frames or draped across the top of your dresser, headboard or vanity to add more fabric to the room. Cover lampshades in fabrics with unique patterns or bright colors. Brightly colored or patterned bedding will make your bed stand out in the room. Pillows of different sizes, colors and patterns will also add more visual interest.

Decorations

Add a mix of eclectic decorations to your bedroom. If you like to hang pictures, purchase a variety of picture frames in different colors or styles and make a wall of picture frames. Browse antique stores for unique artwork and decorative mirrors to hang on the wall. Display antique figurines or brightly colored containers on shelves throughout the room. Add a colorful rug to complete the decorations.

Tags: bright colors, picture frames, pieces furniture, antique stores, bohemian chic

Make A Romantic Setting In The Bedroom

Get your bedroom ready for romance.

Bedrooms have become offices, "communication central" for families, bill paying centers and sleeping quarters. What's been lost in all the hustle and bustle is romance. Keep a special stash of mood-enhancing items in your linen closet for when you want to transform the bedroom from utilitarian to romantic.

Instructions

1. Clear out the clutter. A messy bedroom isn't conducive to romance. Put away the clothes on the floor. Throw out any old newspapers and magazines. Clear off the nightstands. While you're at it, do the same thing for the master bathroom. Romantic evenings often start with a warm bath.

2. Remove work- or office-related materials and any other type of paperwork.

3. Give the room a good cleaning. You don't have to wash the windows or scrub the floors but dusting the furniture, removing cobwebs and vacuuming the floors will make you feel like you're in a hotel room that's just been cleaned.

4. Change the bedding. Throw the pillows in the dryer on high setting for 15 minutes to remove dust and fluff the fibers. Choose your best sheets, either in satin or a high-count cotton. Turn down the bedding. Add a lace coverlet to the top of the comforter. Sprinkle rose petals on the pillows.

5. Light candles. Flickering candles provide warmth, a sense of intimacy and scent. Be careful where you place them so they aren't a fire hazard.

6. Subdue other lighting. If you don't want to use candles, change the light bulbs in the lamps to a lower wattage or use pink-tinted bulbs to give a rosy glow to the surroundings.

7. Set up a small table with a bouquet of flowers, a bottle of wine or your favorite beverage on ice, two glasses and perhaps a light snack of cheese, fruit slices and chocolates. A small refrigerator filled with drinks and snacks won't take up much space.

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Tips On Applying Bathroom Caulking

Caulk in your bathroom prevents leaks around fixtures such as faucets, pipes and tubs. A bathroom caulking project can become complicated if you're unsure about proceed. It's wise to learn about caulking first so you'll have fewer mishaps -- if any.

Considerations

When working on a bathroom project, it's important to use caulk that withstands high moisture, mold and mildew. Repair-Home suggests applying kitchen and bath caulk that is specifically formulated for sealing sinks, bathtubs, shower stalls and toilets. The caulk is available in various colors to match most color schemes.

Warning

When applying caulk to a bathtub, do not use self-adhesive caulking strips. The strips are supposed to provide a neater, cleaner working environment when compared to using a caulking tube. Online Tips reports, however, that caulking strips do a poor job of protecting against water seepage.

Prevention/Solution

In a bathroom, mildew stains are often impossible to get rid of because they develop between the caulk and the wall. The solution is to apply an adhesive and caulk remover to soften the caulk. Remove the caulk with a putty knife, clean away the mildew and then reapply caulking, using mold- and mildew-resistant caulk from a tube.

Tags: caulk that, caulking strips

Design A Virtual Bathroom Online

Designing a bathroom online allows you to experiment freely.

Having the bathroom that you've always dreamed of is truly a gift. Since the bathroom is where most people start and prepare themselves for their day, there's no reason why it shouldn't be the most ideal space for you. However, designing your bathroom can be an entirely daunting task. Fortunately, room design software can help you explore all the options of designing your bathroom online so that when you do finally make decisions in real life, you feel completely comfortable with them.

Instructions

Armstrong

1. Visit the Armstrong site (see Resources). Go to the page labeled "Design a Room." Click on "Bathroom." Select the style you like, choosing from traditional, casual, contemporary, classic and European country.

2. Experiment with different wall, floor and cabinet colors by clicking on various options. Try a range of combinations until you find the design you like best.

3. Click on the tab at the bottom of the page that says "Save Project" if you're satisfied with your work.

Bathroom Guides Planner

4. Visit the Bathroom Guides Planner site (see Resources). Select the shape of your bathroom. Type in the dimensions. Click on the "Create Room" tab at the bottom of the page.

5. Click on the windows tab on the following page to add windows to the room. Type in the size of the windows you'd like and drag them to the area of the room where you'd like them to be. Select a lefthand or righthand swinging door and drag it to the area of your room where you want it.

6. Click on the tab that says "Internal walls" if you'd like an internal wall and determine how big you want the wall to be. Drag it to the appropriate area. Scan through the menu of possible basins, toilets and lights, selecting items you think would be right for your bathroom and dragging them to the appropriate spot on the floor plan.

7. Continue to experiment until you find the layout you like best. Click "save" at the bottom of the page when you're satisfied.

Tags: your bathroom, bottom page, Bathroom Guides, Bathroom Guides Planner, best Click

Ideas For Zebra Prints In A Girly Bedroom

Use zebra prints to spice up your girly bedroom.

Zebra prints, black and white stripes, create a bold statement for a girly bedroom. Create an overwhelmingly dominant zebra theme or use it as an accent to bring some flair into your bedroom. You can also introduce other colors into the stripes to make the room less intense with the decorations on the walls and furniture.

Walls

You can paint the walls in zebra stripes if you want to make an incredibly bold statement, but the look may be too busy to be comfortable. Opt instead for neutral tones that tie into a zebra's natural habitat, such as a grass green or sandy brown.

Bedding

Bedding is where you want to bring the zebra prints into play. Purchase a zebra bed skirt, sheets, pillows and a comforter to bring the pizazz to your bedroom. If you want to add a girly flair, use pink stripes instead of white. Add zebra printed curtains or tiebacks to add some attention to the windows.

Black Furniture

Bring black furniture into the bedroom to add to the zebra theme. Select a black painted bed frame, including the headboard and footboard, and a black dresser or book shelf to the room's decor. Accent the furniture even further by painting stripes to create the zebra pattern.

Other Decorations

While your main bedding and walls may not be as bold as the zebra prints, you can also add extra accents around the room like zebra candles, a lamp or wall art. If you can find a zebra covering for your couch or chair, add that to the mix. Don't forget some small pillows or a zebra print area rug. Be creative and design the room to match your personality.

Tags: bold statement, girly bedroom, stripes create, your bedroom, zebra prints

Make Your Own Bedroom Wall Decor

You can create inexpensive bedroom wall decor with style.

There are many ways to accent the walls in a bedroom, ranging from hanging one-of-a-kind paintings to displaying intricately woven tapestries. There are, however, other wall art projects that yield visually interesting bedroom wall decor without the high price tag. By incorporating easy-to-find craft supplies and simple art techniques, it is possible to create inexpensive bedroom wall decor with color, texture and style to fit into any space.

Instructions

1. Display a collection of old picture frames. Take an odd number of vintage picture frames, and paint them a color that coordinates with the bedroom decorating scheme. Use picture-hanging hardware to hang them in a visually pleasing arrangement on the wall behind the bed as a way to emphasize the bed area and add a stylish DIY wall-art touch to the decor.

2. Create coaster bedroom wall art. Place a piece of scrapbook paper in a shadowbox frame, and hot glue a decorative paper drink coaster in the middle. Use coasters with designs that complement the decor of the bedroom space. Hang an arrangement of coaster art pieces on a bedroom wall for an inexpensive accent with optimal visual appeal.

3. Use an old shutter to display bedroom wall decor. Find a louvered vintage shutter from a thrift store, and leave it with its original patina or paint with a coat of fresh paint. Hang the shutter horizontally on the wall behind the bed area, and tuck vintage postcards in its louvers as a way to add charm to any decorating scheme.

4. Hang embroidery wall art. Take a piece of fabric with embroidery details, and adhere it to a heavy piece of foam board using adhesive spray. Carefully lay the fabric on the board and work out wrinkles until the fabric is completely flat. Attach picture-hanging hardware on the back, and display it on a focal-point wall in the bedroom as a DIY wall decor piece that adds texture and pattern to the entire bedroom space.

5. Add stencil art to a bedroom wall. Use painter's tape to mark off a wall area. Stencil a design in the confines of the taped space using acrylic paint, a stencil template and a stencil brush. Take an empty picture frame, and place it on the wall so its edge contains the stencil design as if it were a painting for a piece of bedroom wall decor that is beautiful and inexpensive at the same time.

6. Make a floral wreath. Cut silk flower blooms off faux flowers, and hot glue them around a grapevine wreath form. Fill in empty areas with dried green moss to make the wreath appear full and lush. Tie a silk bow around the wreath, attach it with wire and hang it on a bedroom wall for a simple and elegant DIY decor piece to accent any type of bedroom space.

Tags: bedroom wall, wall decor, bedroom wall decor, bedroom space, bedroom wall decor, create inexpensive

Make Neat Corners When Recovering Dining Room Chairs

A well-fitted cover makes a dining room chair look elegant.

Well fitted upholstery on dining room chairs makes the dining room look more elegant. It is fairly common for homeowners to cover dining room chairs by stapling new fabric to the back of the underside of the chair. This is fine if you don't mind puckers and gathers along the underside edge of the fabric. These puckers can become pronounced if your fabric is thicker and more expensive. The solution is easier than you might think.

Instructions

1. Staple the fabric over quilt batting to the underside of the chair seat. Keep the staples even and 2 inches from the edge. The fabric should not have any puckers or gathers, and it should be slightly stretched so that it looks smooth and even. Stop when you are 2 inches from the corner in each direction.

2. Cut the fabric on the 45-degree diagonal 1/2 inch from the seat corner to the edge of the fabric. Wrap one side around the corner. Fold the second side under and in line with the corner. Slide one finger between the fabric layers to smooth out any wrinkles. Pin the fabrics together.

3. Thread an upholstery needle with heavy-duty thread. Bring the ends of the thread together and tie a knot. Trim off the excess thread. Position yourself so that the folded seam is directly in front of you with the seat cover at the top. Bring the needle up inside the fold 1/16-inch from the top point of the corner. Pull the thread snug.

4. Pierce the fabric on the right side of the seam with a 1/16-inch stitch. Hold the seam tight together. Cross the needle to the left underside of the fold and up through the top of the fold. Pull the stitch snug. Continue the same cross-over stitch sewing the corner seam together so that the seam is strong and straight and the fabric is smooth and without any puckers. Tie your thread off into a knot on the underside of the chair. Finish stapling the fabric to the underside for that corner of the chair. Repeat for each corner.

5. Trim off all excess fabric on the underside of the chair seat using scissors. Cut cambric fabric the size of the underside of the chair seat. Fold the edges of the cambric under and staple the cambric evenly around the bottom underside of the chair. This will cover all of your earlier stapling and provide a nice finish.

Tags: underside chair, chair seat, dining room, edge fabric, underside chair seat, chair This

Blue Bedroom Ideas

Blue evokes a sense of calm and thus appears in many bedrooms.

Colors affect both the mind and the body, according to Bloomsburg University. Blue calms and soothes the mind while lowering body temperature and pulse. These attributes make a blue bedroom the perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of a day. There are numerous creative ways in which to decorate a blue bedroom depending on personal preference and style.

Traditional

Combine blue and white colors throughout the bedroom for a cozy, traditional feel. Checkered patterns lend a homey, old-fashioned feel to the room. Complete the bedroom with some small, colorful accents such as a flower arrangement or floral vases. Add an unusual touch to the traditional decor by including items in several shades of blue such as midnight blue, royal blue, sky blue and even the green-tinted tiffany blue. Tie all the shades together with a comforter, quilt or rug that incorporates all or most of the shades in its design.

Modern

Add a modern twist to a blue bedroom by choosing a slightly unusual shade such as a neutral bluish-green color. Create an attractive but alternative look by painting the ceiling a dark blue and leaving walls white or very pale blue. You could even use sponge painting or the rag rolling technique to give the ceiling a sky-like appearance. Incorporate unusual elements, contrasting textures and geometric decor such as a lightbox painting or a blue ball chair to further enhance the contemporary feel of the bedroom.

Colorful

Blue provides the perfect background for other colors. By choosing various shades and hues of blue, you can find the perfect combination with other colors whether vibrant or muted. For example, combine a bright, pure blue color with a clear, vibrant orange shade. Try a deep shade such as midnight blue with dark green and yellow colors for an emphatic triad scheme. Use small accents throughout the room to tie the colors together.

Country Feel

While the blue and white pattern works in a blue bedroom with a country theme, this is far from the only possibility. If this more traditional country decor appeals to you, take it a step further by using a fabric-covered headboard in this blue and white pattern with ribbons and buttons added for interest. Add blue Wedgwood tins, blue and white porcelain accents, lace curtains, and distressed or wicker furniture to add to the charm of this decorating style. Decorate walls with stencils of blue flowers, birds and birdhouses. Consider toile patterns for quick visual appeal and interest as well.

A Natural Look

Use blue in a variety of natural hues with other neutral colors to invoke thoughts of the outdoors. Greens, yellows and browns work well in this design, especially when incorporated in floor coverings and furniture made of natural materials. Consider using natural but vibrant shades of blue such as that of the ocean add brightness and light to this color scheme. Blue or deep purple flowers such as irises or hydrangeas make a unique focal point when set on a vanity or bedside table.

Tags: blue bedroom, blue white, bedroom with, blue such, blue white pattern

Decorate A Boys' Sports Bedroom

Boys' Sports Bedroom

A boys' sports bedroom is a way to make your child's room feel decorated without being overly feminine. It's a place to hang out with friends or show off trophies. This bedroom theme can grow with your child. Your kid might keep his room cleaner if they like the decor. They can express their own personalities through decorating. It will work for any room from nurseries to a teenager's room.

Instructions

Boys' Sports Bedroom

1. Base the room around a team. This will dictate the colors. Try to choose a team your child has liked for awhile. This way, you won't have to redecorate if it's just a passing fancy. You can purchase a lot of memorabilia at games such as foam fingers or jerseys. You can frame these for a more cohesive look so things don't become cluttered. If you can't afford official merchandise, try picking bedding in the team colors such as green and yellow.

2. Add lockers. This is the perfect storage for a bedroom with many media cabinets and dressers that look like sport lockers. You can use one to hide the video-game consoles and controllers.

3. Buy a trophy case. Your child might be a sports fanatic or he might play sports. Trophies are an essential part to a boys' sports bedroom. Use floating shelves and group all of the medals in one place. This keeps things neat and tidy. Plus, the more small things you place together, the bigger the focal point becomes.

4. Use sporting equipment in unexpected ways. You can turn anything into a light with a simple lamp kit, even a hockey mask. A surfboard can become a headboard. You can hang a few soccer balls from the ceiling for an unexpected art piece. Mount a bike on the wall with a bike hook. It frees up space in the garage and looks like an interesting sculpture. You can find old equipment at thrift stores so you don't have to ruin useful items.

5. Keep it age appropriate. You might think sports bedroom will work for any male. You might think anything with a baseball or soccer ball on it will fit in the room. Some of these items are too juvenile, and your teenager might be embarrassed by them. Get your kid in on the decorating so he can decide what is important to him.

6. Make the room functional. You probably won't be able to add a basketball court. But you might be able to fit a small basketball hoop over the door or use a putting green as a rug. This keeps with the theme and encourages your kids to be active.

7. Visit stadiums whenever they are remodeling. You might be able to score old seats that will work in a sports bedroom.

Tags: Boys Sports Bedroom, will work, your child, Boys Sports, boys sports bedroom, might able, might think

Dining Room Window Ideas

Add your personal style to your dining room windows.

When decorating dining rooms, windows are usually not the biggest concern. Adding flair with different types of drapes, curtains or shades can brighten, add elegance, promote privacy and give you the ideal dining room feel you are seeking. There are many types of curtains, drapes and shades from which to choose. There are also many accessories you can add to a window. You may even consider tinted windows.

Wood Shades and Blinds

Wood shades and blinds give a more elegant look than plastic, vinyl or fabric shades and blinds. Make sure the shades or blinds match the rest of the wood in your dining room. Adding wood shades or blinds can give the dining room a natural, organic feel.

Luxurious Fabrics

If creating an elegant dining room is your goal, add fabrics made of silk, velvet, leather or suede to give dining room windows a luxurious look.

Bamboo Curtain Rods

Instead of using boring metal or plastic curtain rods, try bamboo curtain rods. If you can't find bamboo rods, purchase bamboo sticks and create your own.

Buttoned Border

Sew buttons onto the bottom, top, sides or a combination of all to add a buttoned border to any curtain. This gives a creative, artsy feel to the dining room. This idea is perfect if you're crafty or can sew. You could even add buttons to cloth napkins to match.

Tablecloth

Drape a small, square, patterned tablecloth over the curtain rod to embellish solid colored curtains, blinds or shades. Fold the tablecloth as you would a bandanna so it forms a triangle. Then simply drape it over the rods with the corners pointing toward the floor.

Tinted Windows

If your dining room has a nice view you might not want to cover it up. The sun can be blinding, bright and even annoying when you're trying to enjoy a family meal. Install tinted windows in your dining room so you don't have to worry about the bright glare during mealtime. You don't have to stick to the typical tinted windows, either; lightly tinted windows or color tinted windows can add refreshing effects to the dining room.

Tags: dining room, your dining, your dining room, tinted windows, blinds give

Ideas For Tropical Bedroom

Create the relaxing feeling of a tropical retreat in your bedroom.

If you would like to get away, but can't afford to right now, an alternative is to decorate your bedroom as a tropical oasis. This theme can help you feel relaxed and on your own private getaway. With a little paint, fabric and well-chosen accessories, you will be well on your way to creating your tropical bedroom.

Paint and Wall Treatments

Start your room with a fresh coat of paint. Baby blue or turquoise works well in a bedroom tropical theme. Choose a neutral color instead if you will incorporate a lot of bright accessories and you want them to contrast with the wall color. Add beadboard or wainscoting for a beach house feel. A themed border, wallpaper or tapestry quickly sets the tone for your tropical bedroom.

Floors

Tropical bedrooms work well along with natural materials such as hardwood floors. Bamboo is an ideal and natural option. Tile is a practical choice if your room is near the water. For an inexpensive alternative, incorporate bamboo rugs.

Fabric

Place mosquito netting around your bed for an authentic touch. Attach muslin in panels around a four-post bed to make your own version of a tropical cabana. Add sheer curtains over your windows. Use a solid-color print for your bedding.

Bed

Cut plywood in the shape of a large palm tree. Paint it and nail behind your bed for a customized headboard. Another option is to paint stencils of palm leaves on the plywood. You can also add a luxurious touch by attaching bright orange and turquoise padded panels to your headboard. A bright turquoise bed frame works well with the theme.

Other Furniture

Paint small furniture items, such as end tables, an entertainment stand or a dresser in blue or green shades. Distress the pieces by using sand paper or tapping on the pieces with a small hammer. Incorporate strips of bamboo to cover an armoire. Make your own tiki hut for a lounge or small bar in your home.

Accessories

Add accessories to complete the look. Place bamboo place mats in a frame for a textured look. Sea stars become a focal point in a shadow box. A palm leaf ceiling fan provides a functional and aesthetically pleasing feature. Trim a side table with small seashells. Put a small tree in the corner of your room or add large palm leaves to the wall. Bring in an aquarium with colorful fish. Hang beach or island theme pictures or canvas. Tack paper fans and decorative coconuts and pineapples to the wall. Attach bamboo blinds to the windows. Place a tropical-themed lamp on the bedside table. Hang a colorful surfboard on the wall.

Tags: your room, bedroom tropical, large palm, palm leaves, with small, works well, your bedroom

Organize A Teenager'S Small Bedroom

Extra shelving and storage bins help organize a messy teen room.

Teenagers are notoriously messy, and this bad habit can appear exaggerated if your teenager has a smaller room. While teens may have an excess of clothing, school papers and other items, organizing the room allows the teen to have easy access to their items while keeping the room clean and tidy just as you want it -- at least for a few days.

Instructions

1. Streamline the number of items in the teen's room. Have the teenager go through her belongings, to throw away unused items and sort other items to place in storage. As a rule of thumb, if the teen hasn't used an item in the past three months, it should either be placed in storage or thrown away.

2. Organize the teen's belongings by separating items by type and size. For example, if he has large DVD and CD collections, create piles for these and create other piles for paperwork, books and other items.

3. Remove large furniture items from the room, if possible, as these items take up vital floor space. Instead of using a large dresser, try stackable plastic bins in the closet. Assign each bin to a specific item, such as underwear, socks or undershirts.

4. Install a hanging shoe rack on the closet door to free up more floor space. Place the most frequently used shoes in the more accessible top half of the shoe rack and the less necessary shoes on the bottom half of the rack.

5. Install wall shelves on at least two walls. The shelves should be at least 24 inches long -- longer if at all possible -- and, if you're installing multiple shelves on each wall, at least 12 inches apart in height. Organize the teen's DVD and CD collection on these shelves as well as miscellaneous items such as memorabilia, photographs, books and random papers.

6. Create a cleanup list to help the teen to keep the room as organized as possible. Set specific days the teen should pick up various items in the room, and include specific trash and laundry days to maintain the organization in the room.

Tags: other items, floor space, least inches, Organize teen, shoe rack

Make A Princess Bedroom

Create a princess-themed bedroom for your little girl.

Themed bedrooms for children are wildly popular. What a treat for a child to watch his favorite movie, character or story come alive in his very own bedroom. On the top of the wish list for many little girls is the magical and whimsical princess motif. With a bit of lace, some pink and gold paint, a touch of royalty and an unleashed imagination, it's easy, fun and inexpensive to make your daughter the princess room of her dreams.

Instructions

1. A princess-themed room should have at least one pink wall.

Paint the walls of your child's bedroom pink. You may choose to paint only one or two walls, leaving the other walls white. Another alternative is to paint some of the furniture pink, such as a bureau, a bench or chairs. Or apply a princess-themed wall border on each wall. In addition, use adhesive wall appliques featuring princesses, stars, flowers and castles. Let your child choose the location of each applique. Stick them to walls, furniture, mirrors or windows.

2. Purchase princess-themed bedding for your child's bed. If she has a favorite princess, choose bedding that spotlights that particular princess. If no princess bedding is readily available, purchase sheets that are pink, lavender, silver or light blue. Add a princess-themed comforter and matching pillows.

3. Hang a simple canopy above your child's bed constructed of pink or lavender netting. Canopies are available for purchase, or you can make your own by placing hooks above the bed and on a nearby wall. Attach pink netting to the ceiling hook first, then let it drape down and onto the wall hooks. If desired, thread sky blue or lavender ribbon through the netting.

4. Choose an area rug appropriate for the size of your child's room.

Lay down a princess area rug. You can choose a rug with princess colors, or with an actual princess image woven into it. It may be round or square. Select a rug that is shaped and sized according to your child's room dimensions.

5. Use wispy pink material to create curtains.

Enhance the windows with princess curtains, or simply hang a princess valance, if desired. You can purchase curtains and valances that are princess themed or you can make your own. Use pink wispy material for your curtains. Tie them with purple ribbon.

6. Decorate the room with pink pillows, princess posters and stuffed animals.

Add various princess-themed accessories such a switch plate cover, a lamp, a clock, a mirror, a toy box, throw pillows, posters or stuffed animals.

Tags: your child, make your, available purchase, child room, pink lavender, posters stuffed

Bathroom Retiling Ideas

Individual tiles can be manipulated to create any effect you can imagine.

Tiling is the perfect décor choice for a bathroom because it is durable, easy to clean and waterproof if applied correctly. Decorating with tile in the bathroom can be done on the walls or floor or even the ceiling. Although removing existing tile can certainly become a chore, replacing it with a new design can be an exciting DIY project that is not nearly as frustrating as painting or wallpapering might be for some people.

Hand Paint Your Own Design

Look around inside a tile store or on the Internet and you can find many design ideas. If you can't find the exact tile style you want, however, you should seriously consider hand-painting the tile yourself. You can use any colors you want as long as you first clean the tile surface and then apply tile primer. Use special tile paint and don't be afraid to use decorative paint effects like sponging or stenciling. "Decorating Hints and Tips" suggests that the finished product be protected by applying a coat of varnish.

Embossed Tiles

If you want to give your bathroom a new feeling of elegance and Old World luxury, consider decorating with embossed tiles. The raised patterns lend a sophisticated textural quality that can't be achieved with plain flat tiles. Embossed tiles can get very expensive, but you can still get some of the same effect by utilizing them in border situations or breaking up your pattern of plain tiles with the addition of some embossed tiles.

Futuristic Metallic Tiles

Bathroom tile has a certain traditional feel to it, but you can still achieve a futuristic look for your bathroom by going with tile. Stainless steel mosaics, added to stainless steel or brushed nickel fixtures, reflect the sterile and often dystopian view of the future expressed in dozens of science fiction movies.

Inserting Picture Tiles

You don't need to replace every single tile on the wall or floor to redo the look of your bathroom. Removing existing tile can be a very frustrating experience, so cut down on the stress by removing only those tiles that are already coming loose. Replace them with decorative picture tiles. Breaking up the current pattern with a tile that seems so out of place it could almost be jarring is an excellent way to imbue new energy into a bathroom design that is becoming stale, without having to spend exorbitant amounts of money or time.

Pedestal Sink Tile Tower

A bathroom with a pedestal sink can use tile for a very dramatic effect. Choose a tile color that complements the color of the sink. Place a thin tower of tiles behind the sink that approximates the same width of the pedestal. Make this area of your bathroom stand out by choosing a darker wall covering that makes the tile explode into the consciousness with an almost 3-D effect.

Tags: your bathroom, with tile, existing tile, look your, look your bathroom, tile very

Build A Dining Table Into A Wall Between The Kitchen And Living Room

Dinner tables do not always fit in small apartments.

Saving space or creating extra space is important when living in a smaller home or apartment, where the rooms can feel suffocating. Fold-up tables create a space for eating meals or adding work space to a less than accommodating room. When the kitchen and living room are close together without a wall or barrier of some kind, the fold-up table not only provides the division but also removes the division when it's no longer necessary.

Instructions

1. Measure the wall space between the kitchen and living room. Determine how wide of a table you can place in this area. Purchase a table top with these dimensions.

2. Measure the height of the wall and the height of the table needed. For example; the table top may need to be 2 1/2 feet from the floor for comfortable seating. Mark this spot with a pencil. A 4-foot-long table top is most convenient --so that you can reach the top when the table is folded up.

3. Cut two 2-by-4-inch boards to the width of the table top using a table saw. Sand the cut edges of the boards and paint or stain the wood to match the home decor.

4. Locate the studs in the wall with a stud finder. Mark these spots with a pencil at the heights chosen for the table. The first mark at the height when the table is open and the second mark where the table's edge reaches when the table is closed. For example: mark the studs at 2 1/2 feet and 6 1/2 feet from the floor for a 4-foot long table top.

5. Screw the 4-inch side of one cut 2-by-4-inch board into the wall studs at the height chosen for the open table, 2 1/2 feet from the floor, using 4-inch screws. Screw the 4-inch side of the second 2-by-4-inch board into the wall at the spot where the table top touches when it's folded up, 6 1/2 feet from the floor.

6. Connect two table legs to the two corners of one end of the table top, screwing small hinges with 1/2-inch screws with a cordless drill. Place the hinges on the side of the table leg that faces the bottom of the table, not the side facing the edges or facing toward the other table leg. When the table is in the upright position, the legs will close in toward the table at the hinge.

7. Screw a piano hinge, the length of the width of the table, into the top of the table on the end without legs. Have a friend hold the table up to the wood board 2 1/2 feet from the floor for stability. Screw the piano hinge into the wood board at 2 1/2 feet from the floor, using 2-inch screws.

8. Screw the side of a barrel bolt that has the sliding bolt to the 2-by-4-inch board on the wall where the table top reaches when it is closed. Screw the holder of the lock to the center of the underside of the table on the end with legs.

Tags: feet from, feet from floor, from floor, 2-by-4-inch board, where table, 2-by-4-inch board into, 2-inch screws

Womens Bedroom Ideas

Victorian bedroom

Designing the bedroom of your dreams is possible without hiring an interior decorator. When designing your room, steer clear of cheap décor clichés like a floral garden or a pink ruffles theme. Instead opt for relaxing and pleasing color schemes like soft blue and cream, barely there pink or rich hues like wine red or brown. Below, you'll find suggestions to decorate your feminine bedroom.

Relaxing Retreat

When the goal is to turn your bedroom into a relaxing retreat, a soft color palette is key. Place a soft shade of blue on the walls; a matte finish is ideal. Choose a tufted headboard in a camel shade to keep with the soft and feminine theme of the room. Choose furniture in an extreme color, like deep brown or white; a cherry finish works against the color palette for the room. Pair patterned bedding in a soft blue or cream color with lamps in a coordinating shade. Accent the room with an off-white area rug and art that picks up the pattern of your bedspread.

Blushing Pink

Having a pink bedroom is still attainable for adults. Forget hot pink, fuchsia and baby pinks so your bedroom is fit for a woman, not a child. Paint your walls a barely there shade of pink, like Wild Aster or Powder Blush from Benjamin Moore. Change out the existing hardware on your furniture and replace with pink glass drawer pulls or knobs to add a feminine, vintage touch. Choose curtains in a cream or camel shade, and choose geometric bedding in a soft shade of pink. Incorporate vases, candles, patterned rugs and throws with understated pink accents to complete the look. For a feminine touch, choose to display your jewelry on a dresser top jewelry rack rather than concealing it in a jewelry box.

Asian Quarters

Bring Asian style into your ordinary bedroom by painting your walls a rich shade of red. Offset the harshness of the deep shade by using the sponge technique to blot the color onto the walls. Instead of using a traditional headboard, mount a shoji screen printed with an Asian symbol to the wall behind your bed. Choose bedding in rich orange/brown and red shades to accent the walls. Finish off the look with red, black and authentic Asian accessories, such as a Japanese tea set and a painting of bamboo.

Tags: barely there, bedding soft, blue cream, camel shade, color palette, shade pink, soft blue

Coordinate Colors In The Bathroom

Coordinate Colors in the Bathroom

The bathroom design should be cohesive from start to finish. The colors of the bathroom can help provide a seamless look that will complement and complete any style. By beginning with a focal area of the bathroom and working outward, you will find it easy to pull the colors of the bathroom together beautifully. From the countertop and tile to the baseboard trim and accessories, coordinate the bathroom colors for a cohesive design.

Instructions

1. Use the vanity top (or countertop) to begin pulling together colors. Granite or marble vanity tops are full of varying colors and shades that make for good stepping off points for the rest of the bathroom design. Corian, Quartz counters and glass tops may also contain varying degrees of variation in their surface that you can use to find tile, wall and accessory colors.

2. Choose tile colors. Begin with the floor tile and move upward to the walls.

The floor tile color should compliment the base color of the counter. For example, if you are using a granite vanity top that contains a background color of cream with dark golds, browns and burgundies for accents, the floor tile should also start with a background color of cream. If the bathroom is small, use the same tile on the shower walls to visually enlarge the room. For larger bathrooms, choose a wall tile that is slightly lighter than the floor tile, or with a slightly lighter accent color from the counter.

3. Pick accent colors for borders and decorative tiles using secondary colors in the vanity top. If you are using a solid, or more sedate color of vanity top, choose a complimentary color for the floor and an accent color that can be repeated in varying shades throughout the room. For example, if you've got a white top or a white pedestal sink, floor color choices can include Bianco Carrara marble, which brings the color gray into the bathroom, or a classic octagon and dot floor pattern consisting of white with a cobalt blue dot.

4. Select the wall color. The accent tile color is a good choice for the walls. If the accent color is particularly bold, and you want a more subtle effect, lighten the accent color several shades without introducing a different tone to the paint.

5. Make sure any wood trim follows the color of the bathroom fixtures if using white or cream fixtures. Shades of white can vary widely from manufacturer to manufacturer, so when choosing the wood trim paint, bring along a plastic bolt cover from the toilet. If you've selected a color other than white or cream for the fixtures, choose a shade of white that leans toward the "temperature" of the rest of the colors in the room. For example, if blues and greens dominate the room, choose a cooler, crisper white. If golds, reds and yellows dominate, use a warmer, creamier shade.

6. Select the bathroom towels, throw rugs and wall art. Choose colors that are pulled from accents within the bathroom, such as borders, decorative tiles and secondary colors within the vanity top. Try to use colors already present in the bathroom; lighter or darker shades of current colors will pull the design together.

Tags: accent color, floor tile, background color, background color cream, bathroom design

Utilize My Dining Room As A Living Space

Taking cues from studio-apartment decorating helps you plan your dining-room-turned-living-space.

In large homes, many unused areas can be converted to extra living space. If you have a never-used formal dining room, you can convert this area to a living space. You just have to keep some of the principles of studio-apartment decorating in mind. Making the area more apartment-like involves closing off the area and choosing room arrangements that encourage economy of space, as well as furnishings serve more than one purpose. Though it's minus a bathroom and a kitchen sink, the room otherwise can be a self-contained living area.

Instructions

1. Close off the space for privacy with a heavy curtain. By putting up a curtain instead of a door, you won't have to take down a door if you ever convert the room back to a dining area.

2. Separate each area with paint, meaning that you can create a kitchen area, a bedroom area and a reading area and paint each corner a separate but complementary color. The colors will provide a visual --- and therefore a mental --- distinction between each space, thus making it seem more like a home with different types of rooms.

3. Get a bed with storage drawers underneath. This saves space, which will be at a premium.

4. Back the couch up against the bed. You can partition the room off in this way. By placing large pillows on the bed up against the back of the couch, you create a headboard of sorts.

5. Place a throw rug in front of the couch. Add a coffee table and one or two chairs on the other side to create a sitting area.

6. Bring in an armoire if there's no closet. You'll be able to hang clothes and store your shoes neatly in the bottom of the armoire.

7. Bring in shelves for your books and items such as art and hobby supplies. Cover the front with a curtain if you'd like the contents of the shelves to be hidden.

8. Set up a basic kitchen area. Include items such as a mini-fridge, a coffee maker and a microwave. Dishes for snacks and unrefrigerated food can be kept on the shelves. Place the kitchen area and the living area next to one another, because you're going to have items from both on the shelves.

9. Look for or make items that serve double duty. For example, if you need to store some papers and get metal file cabinets for that purpose, you can turn the cabinets into part of the furniture. Place two cabinets of the same height together and cover them with a long tablecloth. This becomes a table for books, flower arrangements and other household items.

Tags: kitchen area, area living, items such, living area, studio-apartment decorating

Rules For A Dining Room Picture Hanging Height

Hang art in your dining room that everyone can enjoy.

When you are preparing to hang art in your dining room, there are two things to keep in mind. People will be eating in your dining room, and people often bump up against the walls of a dining room when trying to get around chairs. The height at which you hang your wall art in a dining room will help preserve your art and allow people to enjoy it during meals.

Eye Height

The reason for the standard 60-inch measurement to the middle of artwork you hang is to put it at the average person's eye level. But in a dining room, most people are seated, and 60 inches can be an uncomfortable height at which to enjoy a piece of art. Bring the middle point for your artwork down to seated eye level when hanging art in a dining room. The best way to do this is to sit at your dining room table and determine where your eye level is when seated. It varies based on the table and chairs used in the dining room, so a custom eye level often works best, according to the Home Depot website.

Multiple Levels

If you have a lot of art that you want to hang on your dining room walls, you may be tempted to hang several rows of art on the same wall. Do not hang any pictures below the eye level middle point as those images will not be seen and could be in danger of being damaged as chairs are moved around. Avoid hanging more than two rows of art on each wall as art hung any higher could become a distraction to diners.

Appropriate Art

When hanging art at eye level, keep the images appropriate for people who are trying to eat and carry on dinner conversation. Controversial, pornographic, or explicitly violent images are not appropriate for the dining room and definitely not for the eye level line of sight. Controversial dining room art should be hung above the seated eye level and in the corner of the room where it can be disregarded by guests if necessary.

Dining Room Furniture

If you have an armoire, linen storage chest, or any other furniture along the walls of your dining room, the rules for artwork hanging height change. Instead of using an eye level line, you use the piece of furniture as a basis for the height of your artwork. The Home Depot website points out that, in general, the bottom of your artwork should be 4 to 8 inches from the top of a piece of dining room furniture.

Tags: dining room, your dining, your dining room, dining room, your artwork, Depot website