The right lampshade can transform a room -- all you have to do is find it. Here's a simple way to make one instead. Start with an opaque white paper shade, and add paint, trim, or silver leaf.
High-gloss oil-base paint gives the best results; thin it if necessary, and apply two or three coats to the outside of the shade, letting it dry after each. To add ribbon trim, cut ribbon to the circumference of shade, paint the edges of shade with craft glue, and lay the ribbon over the glue with the ends meeting at the shade's seam. The wide silver trim shown here is self-adhesive but stiff, so it can only be used on drum shades; it was scoured gently with steel wool to give it a matte look. Silver leaf can be applied inside a shade before you paint the outside.
1. Use a paintbrush to spread a thin coat of gilders' adhesive. Pick up a sheet of silver leaf with a static brush to transfer it to the shade; add sheets one at a time, starting at the bottom and overlapping slightly, until the interior is covered.
2. Use a soft cloth to rub the silver leaf gently, removing bits that don't adhere. Coat the silver leaf with acrylic spray to keep it from tarnishing.
DINER SCENES MELAMINE PLATES
I would like to say that this didn't catch my eye because of the basset, but that would be a big fat lie. I love bassets, and shag.
Rescued from Thai houses, these antique thresholds served the families of their homes in many ways. The structural base for the door, these architectural pieces served to prevent water in nearby rivers from entering the homes. Most importantly, the threshold - or "Goddess Protector" - was installed as a means to protect the family from spirits and evil. The antique structures, 50-150 years old, will be a compelling addition to any room and, possibly, bring their protective powers into your home.
This full wine barrel on an iron stand actually houses a cooler - complete with a watertight liner and drain faucet. Previously-used white oak wine barrels, which are usually discarded after several years, get reincarnated in this functional furniture piece. Handmade in Georgia. It's $875, so it might be that you splurge on this little gem and can't scrape together enough to buy a 6pack and some ice to throw in, but it's a great idea and if you're at all handy, perhaps could make your own for a fraction of the cost.
I love this bowl. The perfect nest for your favorite seasonal fruits, this unique bowl brings a touch of nature to your dining or coffee table. The pretty lattice of willow tree sticks and twigs manages to maintain a light feel, while appearing to be the work of creatively industrious birds. Display on its own to show off the lovely construction, or use in the kitchen to contain nature's most recent bounty. Imported, or go outside, gather some sticks and make one yourself, then you won't have to pay shipping!
The knobs have it. What better way to transform a piece of furniture--without picking up a paint brush--then to simply switch out the hardware? Check out this great website featuring cabinet knobs, towel and coat hooks, drapery hardware, and bin pulls. So great!
