Red House Happenings

2011 Home Expo Pictures!!!

2011-06-18T14:23:00.003-04:00

Well here it is! The news I have been so excited to share. Infinity Homes won Best Kitchen Design and Cabinetry and Best Master Suite in the 2011 Home Expo. This was my first real decorating job and I'm very proud of the outcome.

New Project

2011-06-01T08:09:00.003-04:00

I'm so excited to be working on a new project. So excited, in fact, that my blog is up and running again. I decided to take some time off from blogging when my dad passed away. It just seemed to hard to find anything other than him to write about; and I will probably continue to write about him and remember all the good times, but time is healing my broken heart and it's not as painful to think about as it was 3 months ago.

My latest project is huge and I am busting at the seams to share it with you!!! I will have pictures to post soon, I promise.

10% off Etsy Sale

2011-01-13T12:05:00.005-05:00

Take 10% off EVERYTHING in my Etsy store beginning January 14 thru February 4. Use Coupon code BEMYVALENTINE11 at checkout!
(Excludes custom orders)

Missing My Daddy

2011-01-07T21:27:00.003-05:00

Just missing my daddy today. It's been almost a month now since he passed. I think of him daily and I always will. He was more than just my daddy; he was my buddy. Such wonderful memories we've made. Such a great example of true Christianity. Although small in stature, he was a rock, bold when he needed to be and unshakable in adversity. I can't wait to see him again someday and I know that it won't be much longer. Until then, I will continue on the journey he started me out on, giving God ALL the honor and praise for His blessings in my life. Thank you God for the gift of a wonderful father. I love you Daddy.

Nook Protective Pocket

2010-12-04T16:06:00.002-05:00

New in my Etsy shop: The perfect accessory to carry your Nook. Currently sizes to fit Kindle and iPad are unavailable, but it's coming soon!

What's Your Favorite?

2010-11-24T20:55:00.004-05:00

JUST LISTED!

2010-11-21T16:56:00.003-05:00

Just listed in my Etsy Shop

Fall Break 2010

2010-10-26T09:06:00.002-04:00

We spent fall break in Niagara Falls, NY and what a great time of year to go. It was a little on the chilly side 50's, but a nice break from all the heat we've had this summer and fall.

Newly Stocked Etsy Shop

2010-10-11T12:01:00.004-04:00

Come on over and see what I've been up to lately at my newly stocked Etsy shop.

Uppercase Living

2010-09-13T16:33:00.002-04:00

Anyone placing an Uppercase Living order before Sept 25 will receive my 25% discount. Click on the link to the right of this post to view the catalog.

Pretty Papaw

2010-09-08T20:03:00.002-04:00

Ava pretended to be a fairy and changed him into a princess so she started calling him her Pretty Papaw. He wanted to be changed into a handsome prince, but she flat out refused to changed him back into a man. I think he embraced it. He was a pretty handsome fellow though. I sure do miss my Papaw, but he's with grandma now and happy again.

Another Bible Cover

2010-08-13T08:58:00.003-04:00

More Vintage Inspiration

2010-08-01T14:09:00.004-04:00

I have yet to make one of these dresses, but I can't wait to get started. My fav is the one on the right.

My grandma had a large selection of rick rack and this is what is left of it. I wish we could still buy it for 19 cents a piece. This dress is made from an old bed sheet that I found at a thrift store for 2.00. I used this pattern and I love the whole "housewivey" feel of this dress.

Grandma would've been proud.

I HEART Vintage

2010-07-30T12:38:00.007-04:00

I have an obsession with all things vintage. I have often thought how neat it would have been to grow up in the 40 and 50's. To be part of an era when kids stayed out all day (either working in the field or playing in the creek down the dirt road) until momma made them come in to wash up for supper. There would be fresh cut tomatoes on the table with nearly every meal and we'd listen to radio shows at night (if we were fortunate enough to have a radio). We'd go to bed and leave the front door and all the windows open at night and the only noise would be the sound of crickets. The children would never wake up from nightmares or worries of some psychopath breaking in and shooting them up because that just never happened and besides, if it did, daddy would stop them in their tracks. Well, back to the reality of 2010. Since I can't time travel, I guess I'll just have to enjoy all things vintage through hand me downs, thrift and antique stores and reproductions.

Vintage trims that I inherited from my great-grandmother. I love them all so much, even the ones covered in stains. I can just picture her spilling her morning coffee all over it.

Vintage inspired hair clip/broche that I made.
Here I used some of grandmas lace on a pair of bloomers.

The lace on these bloomers isn't really vintage, but I love the look.

A Crafters Crafting Room

2010-07-22T06:00:00.001-04:00

This is a craft room that I LOVE. It belongs to a dear friend of mine and I know it will be used alot. She has so many beautiful ideas floating around in her mind and a husband that can bring them all to life.
I'm so proud of this curtain. I almost couldn't believe that I made it when I saw it hanging there.
I also made the pillows and a seat cushion for this little bench but haven't been back to take a finished picture with the cushion. Look for more photos in the future.

Camera Strap

2010-07-20T09:13:00.001-04:00

A Skirt Refashion

2010-07-17T09:04:00.002-04:00

I went GW shopping with my mother-in-law a few weeks back and saw this cute little skirt. I thought it would be perfect for my eldest. Well it turned out too small for one daughter and way too big for the other.

Solution: Turn it into a sun dress

I cut the elastic waist out of it, machine smocked the top and added some straps from my scrap pile.

Just Some Dresses

2010-06-27T21:42:00.002-04:00

This last one was made from a man's dress shirt that I bought at the GW for $2.

UPPERCASE LIVING SPECIAL!!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-12T08:41:00.005-04:00

Uppercase Living is offering buy one get one FREE for a limited time only. Nows the perfect time to spruce things up around the home or think ahead and get something for the holidays.
Shop the catalog and let me know if your interested in ordering.

New Etsy Items

2010-06-02T21:28:00.002-04:00

New items in my Etsy shop

Oil Change

2010-05-14T06:00:00.000-04:00

One thing my dad constantly reminded me to do was getting an oil change. "Dianne, have you had your oil changed lately?" My answer, of course, was always "no dad" and his response would always be "It's the life of your car, ya know?"
I think it's man's work. I guess that excuse doesn't work when your 23 years old and don't have a husband to do it for you. Now that I'm older and married, I still do it myself, but not without constant reminders from my hubby. Why is this such a chore for me? I go to a garage where there's like 4 or 5 greasy men working on the cars and there are 4 or 5 men in the waiting room watching ESPN. Why am I the only female here? What would they think if I got up and turned the channel to Dr. Phil? Am I the only woman that has to get her own oil changed? I don't get it. How do I get out of doing this?

Enough of this rant of mine. On to more important things that I think is more suitable woman's work (I've probably just offended the feminist out there)....cleaning and changing the oil in your bobbin casing.
I've been sewing alot lately and I've neglected to clean my machine between projects. I noticed it was running pretty rough and making some strange noises.

Upon closer inspection I found what looked like a mouse had nested inside my bobbin casing. Never let this happen....You should always clean your machine (I use an old tooth brush) and always re-oil afterwards. It's the life of your machine, ya know?

Now thats better. It should be good to go for another 3 months or 3000 miles.

Demon Dog

2010-05-13T06:00:00.001-04:00

What happened to my sweet little Lucy? Where could she be?

I'm not sure, but I think this little demon dog must have eaten her.

What happened to my beautiful tulips in the foreground?
The last of them were finished off by the demon dog.
And my strawberry pot of hens and chicks that I hoped would flourish into beauty?
The destroyer of Life must have been hungry.

She was probably hungry when she ate those three frogs and the Easter Bunny's little baby too. I'm not posting those pictures. When will I ever be able to trust her not to kill everything she sees? When will she quit chewing on my ankles every time I walk by? Most important question, What was I thinking?

Tulle Petticoat and Skirt

2010-05-11T22:26:00.006-04:00

Last week Hobby Lobby had their tulle on sale for 77 cents/yard so I needed a reason to buy it. Then I found it!!! McCalls 6066

I used a cheap old t-shirt that looked like it had spaghetti sauce dripped all down the front of it and covered the stains with fabric yo-yo's and stems. Turned out kinda cute, I think.

A Bible Cover

2010-05-06T06:00:00.000-04:00

I hope you LOVE it Tina!!

From Daddy to Daughter Shirt Dress

2010-05-05T19:25:00.004-04:00

Using the tutorial I found over at MADE and a $3.50 mens shirt I picked up at the GW, I made a very inexpensive dress. Hubby might just have some shirts disappear next time he's out of town.

2010-04-27T07:52:00.002-04:00

I just love these cute fabric rings made by V&Co. She is so creative and always so willing to share a good tutorial. She even has a kit that you can purchase to make your own ring.

Key Fob

2010-04-20T14:58:00.002-04:00

Wrist or finger sized key fobs for sale in my Etsy shop.

Strawberry Pots

2010-04-16T18:39:00.005-04:00

Here's a look back at a post I did last year on strawberry pots. The first pic is one that I just potted up this week. I can't wait for it to fill out some. Hopefully it will be as beautiful as these in a few weeks.

Tulle Bed Skirt

2010-04-12T22:08:00.004-04:00

Theirs: $149.00 twin bed skirt

My Version: about $50.00 in materials

How I've Used Uppercase Living

2010-04-01T07:04:00.011-04:00

I've had some people ask me how I have used Uppercase Living products in my own home. Here are some ideas.

On the front door, so the mail man won't miss us (maybe I should have ordered bigger numbers, just sayin).

The Pantry Door, so no one mistakes it for the bathroom ( I guess I should have ordered that bigger too, Bob)

Set of coasters with the design of my choice.

On the bedroom ceiling to accent the trey.

A chalkboard to keep my family organized.

On a blank canvas that I covered with fabric and then embellished with words that describe how I feel.

A Monogram above the bed

As a ceiling medallion above my dining room chandelier.

To accent the change in ceiling height from one room to the next.

Frameworks Frames that can change with the seasons.

Uppercase Living Special Ending

2010-03-31T07:02:00.000-04:00

Don't Delay. Buy Two, Get One FREE Ends on April 5th!
Purchase any two items from now thru April 5th
at 11:59 pm (mt) and you’ll get an additional item of equal or lesser
value absolutely FREE!
Choose from any item we offer, including all of our new Spring/Summer
expressions, embellishments, accessories, Grande Format, Decorative
Prints, or even MyDesign Suite custom expressions and UL Photo Prints.
There’s no limit to the ways you can enhance your home or the FREE
items you can get!
Don’t miss your chance to Buy Two, Get One FREE—contact me and place your order today!

Little Lucy

2010-03-21T15:03:00.002-04:00

I finally wore my hubs down!!!!This is my new baby Lucy

She is a two month old lab mix and has one blue eye. Does anyone know what she could she be mixed with by looking at her? She slept in her crate all night and not even one accident. To good to be true? She's a sweetie.

The Best Skirt Tutorial Ever

2010-03-16T16:29:00.003-04:00

You're going to love this tutorial I found today at Sew A Straight Line. ANYONE can make this skirt (no, really) Its a quick sew, only took me about 30 minutes. It's completely reversible and it looks like an apron. I used some scraps just to try it out and I can't wait to get some fabric to make myself one. What's not to love?

Ruffled Purse

2010-03-15T09:51:00.003-04:00

I finally purchased a ruffler foot for my sewing machine. Man I love that thing, although it's pretty intimidating at first. What a contraption! This purse was just an experiment to try it out, but my daughter loves it.

A Giveaway

2010-03-11T07:05:00.002-05:00

Check out the awesome giveaway going on at V&Co. I WANNA WIN!!!!!

A Fat Quarter Kick

2010-03-10T12:15:00.005-05:00

While at Hancock's a few weeks ago I noticed some fat quarters on sale for 99 cents a piece. My first thought was "what am I gonna do with these?" With warmer weather coming so quickly, I really don't want to get started on a quilt. I'm kind of a "winter seamstress" so I decided to buy them and think about what to do with them later. Before I got home I had a project in mind. I've seen similar bible covers before, but it's hard to find something that hugs my bible just the way I'd like it to. This is a simple project that with a little planning could be done fairly quickly and inexpensively. I did use some batting left over from previous project and this only took two fat quarters. My total was about $4.00 to make.

Here's another fat quarter project I did using a tutorial I found here. This handbag can take either one or two fat quarters. I used two because I liked the coordinating lining or you could use a plain lining fabric, whatever your preference might be.

Dianne

A Dog and a Dog Quilt

2010-03-06T21:09:00.006-05:00

So, I've been thinking alot about dogs the past couple weeks and thought I'd do a post on this fellow. What great companions they can be. They are always happy to see you and they never talk back to you. He's been the greatest dog I've ever NOT owned. He belongs to my dad and has become a great little buddy to me. I've never been the type to treat a dog like a human, I do know the difference, but this little guy here really has taken a hold on me and I love him.

Unfortunately, he won't be here much longer. He's a very sick dog and I'm gonna miss having him around the house with me.

This one's for my little buddy.

Baby Nora's Rocker

2010-03-01T15:43:00.003-05:00

Before: Dust mite infested, nasty and it kinda smelled funky too. This rocker was tag teamed by me and my dad. We literally tore it down to its bare bones

After: We decided she needed some button tufing, which I learned how to do here. This is a great site to reference for your reupholstery how to.

I hope the Little Princess is happy with it.

Just Stand

2010-02-26T07:04:00.003-05:00

Like a deeply rooted tree, be strong in the Lord. Put on the full armor of God.

For My Mommy-In-Law

2010-02-16T17:33:00.003-05:00

I took one look at the pattern for this apron and it immediately made me think of my mommy-in-law. I love the ric-rac, piping, scallops (not the sea food). I hope she loves it too.

From Where I'm Standing

2010-02-15T17:46:00.002-05:00

Here's the view.

Happy Little Painting

2010-02-14T14:19:00.008-05:00

So this past Christmas I asked my hubby for some painting lessons, instead I got this, which was fine with me. I was excited that he put so much thought into this gift. So no one understood the hint I gave. It was Bob Ross in pig latin, at least I thought it was. Anyhow, I'm no Bob Ross, but I sure have enjoyed trying his techniques.

Here's a sketch of a Bull Dog that Sissy did. I've seen such artistic talent in her from very early on. And an etch a sketch drawing she did last year, which for some reason always impressed me, because I know how hard it is to operate those things.
Who knows, maybe some day my girl will be the female "Bob Ross".

On second thought.....

Scrappy Quilt

2010-02-08T13:51:00.016-05:00

I linked up to A Soft Place to Land

Here's a simple baby quilt I made over the weekend using only scraps from my braided rag rug and reupholstered rocking chair. I did have to purchase the backing and batting. This project cost about $10.00
Lessons Learned from my Mother In Law: Don't EVER throw away your scrap fabrics.

Dianne

What's Happening?

2010-02-05T15:22:00.004-05:00

I know I've been in a blogging slump lately. Circumstances have kept me from doing much of anything, but here's a few little projects I've been able to complete.

A Valentine's Apron

A Braided Rag Rug thanks to another great tutorial by V&Co. I LOVE that woman. What else? hmmm.... I've taken up a new hobby, but I won't let you in on it just yet. I'll save that for another post. Here's a hint: Obba ossra.

I'm a brand new aunt of a beautiful baby girl Eleanor (aka: Nora) and it makes me want another baby for about two minutes. The rug pictured above was for her new nursery. It is simply the most precious baby girl room ever. I'll post pics later.

My oldest daughter applied for "set designer" for the school play and got it!!! I'm so proud of the young lady she is becoming. She brought home a straight A mid-term report today.

My youngest isn't a baby anymore and it breaks my heart that's she's about to turn 5.

My loving, supportive, handsome hubby is having a birthday tomorrow. Just when I think it would be impossible to love him more than I do right now..........I do.

My daddy is still letting his creative juices flow in spite of all he's going through. He's a fighter and a WINNER no matter what the outcome is.

I'm happy in life. God has given me peace. What more can I say? I am blessed.

Dianne

2009-12-14T12:11:00.006-05:00

I was so excited to see this cute little apron I made featured at Whisperwood Cottage It makes me happy to see her again and know she went to a good home and is on display in Amy's newly renovated kitchen.

Chicago

2009-11-14T08:30:00.003-05:00

Last weekend our family took a little trip to Chicago to the American Girl Place. I have been there a few times before, but this was the first time for my youngest daughter and my oldest daughter didn't really remember going the first time. It was so much fun to watch the girls take it all in. They had the unveiling of their Christmas window the day before we got there.

Since we did American Girl we decided we had better do something for the boys. So we went to Lego Land. I had no idea that there were actually lego artists. Pretty Impressive.

Chair Redo 3

2009-11-13T13:31:00.002-05:00

Another chair has found new life. Found this one at GW for 15.00 and boy was it ugly!!!!! I failed yet again to get a before pic, but I did take a pic of the avocado green fabric I was so eager to rip off it. AfterI found some beautiful creamy white fabric on the remnant table for only 15.00
Now she's at home in my new bedroom.

The New Bedroom

2009-11-10T08:55:00.002-05:00

I'm excited to share photos of my new bedroom. I only had one before picture, but I'm so proud of my new room because it cost me under $100 to complete.

After

To cut down on cost, I used the same bedding and just changed curtains, paint color and added a few pillows and a throw. But, simply rearranging the furniture made all the difference in this room.

I'm still working on some of my pillows, but I just couldn't wait to post these pics.

Settee Redo

2009-10-26T21:11:00.004-04:00

Just look at this darling little settee (did I spell that right?) Look how cute it is. It just wasn't matching the all black and white room my client had it sitting in. So what's the solution?

Reupholster it,

then add some contrasting pillows.

This little (settee?) went from cute to sophisticated in about a day.

2009-10-23T10:13:00.000-04:00

A Virtuous Woman

2009-10-23T07:03:00.005-04:00

I was reading my bible this morning and came upon this scripture. It reminded me of my mom. She really is a virtuous woman and I'm so blessed to have a mom like mine. Lord help me to be a virtuous wife and mother.

Proverbs 31: 10-31

10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.

14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.

15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.

18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.

19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.

20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.

23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.

25 Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

30 Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.

31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

Happy Fall Ya'll

2009-10-01T06:37:00.006-04:00

It's here, it's here, it's here. My favorite time of year. This is a look back at some pictures I took in fall of 2008.

I can feel the crispness of fall in the air.

Bushes are burning.

Harvest is near

Mums are in full bloom
Children are playing

Trees are turning
Allergy season is over for me!!!!

Fall is my favorite time of year to take photos. There is such a beautiful backdrop in almost every picture I snap, which makes it even more rewarding for an amateur like myself. Does anyone else love fall this much?

Bad, Bad Blogger

2009-09-15T08:05:00.002-04:00

I've been a bad, bad blogger. So sorry that I've not been around for the past week or two. I have been keeping busy with projects and sometimes I get so wrapped up in what I'm doing, I forget to take pictures. Here's something I worked on last week. These pictures were take in Washington DC in March at the botanical gardens by my mother. She was so proud of these photos. I have had them enlarged and framed. Shhhh...don't tell her.

I took this photo in Leota when I went antiquing. I can't believe that fall is here. Soon the leaves will be changing and all color will be gone. Enjoy it while it's here.

Grandpa's Love Letter

2009-09-05T10:49:00.000-04:00

I haven't mentioned anything about what's been going on around here lately. It's been a sad couple of weeks for my family. Both my grandparents past away within 10 days of each other. They were married for nearly 64 years and just couldn't stand to be apart. God is strengthening us and is helping us each to cope with our loss. I want to post a love letter that my grandpa wrote to my grandma. It was found a few years ago by my aunt. She had it printed and framed to hang in the nursing home where my grandma lived. Today, the original is folded in my grandma's hands.

My Love
It seems I am not able to, or cannot express fully by word the Great Love in my heart I feel for you. It runneth over and wants to burst from my body. You have given me four fine children which I love dearly (which at times) they may not think so, but nevertheless is so. I do not see how I can love you any more for that because you have it all now. I know not why I am writing you this except my heart is uring me to do this. It is all a quiver.

Love you My Darling,
Ralph

Blog Love

2009-09-03T06:45:00.003-04:00

I am so excited to tell ya'll about a new blog I found called The White House of Parkville. Look at this beautiful quaint home just nestled up in all its green landscaping glory. She said that this home just "spoke" to her and I can totally see why.
I can tell you already I'm gonna love this lady. Just take a peek at some the items featured on her blog. My babies would love this pink tutu, and I love the dress form.

She's into flowers

But the thing I really like about her: She takes junking to a completely different level. She owns her own junking business and has even tried to retire from it by selling virtually everything in her home and storage unit, but has found that junking is something that is just "in her blood". So she's back at it again. Ya'll should definitely pay her blog a visit and leave her a comment.

Dianne

Thrifting Finds

2009-09-02T13:07:00.002-04:00

This week while thrifting I found this cute milk glass lamp and shade for $6.50
I'm not sure what this is, but I liked it. I have a few ideas running around in my brain about what I could do with it. Whatever I decide, it will need a coat of paint and was only $3.00 at GW.

And I was soooooo very excited to see this brand new prelit Martha Stewart christmas tree in a galvanized steel bucket for only $3.00. This will be my girls' "girly tree" this year.

Ok, so this isn't a GW find. I got it at Hobby Lobby for 30% off. Does that count as a thrifting find? This will be my next project, but you'll have to come back for updates on this.

Bathroom Wall

2009-08-27T06:51:00.005-04:00

This is a room that I have put on the back burner for almost two years now. It's my basement bathroom. It goes unused for the most part but I finally decided to do a little something about it and here's what I came up with.
I basically just doodled on the back wall with a pencil and then painted over it with plain old craft paint. This project cost me ZERO dollars since I had left over paint from another project. I had already purchased these framed prints at a yard sale last year for $5.00. There are still some things I'd like to do here, but only when the cash allows me.
For now it makes me happy and is a nice change.

Finish Chair Project (check)

2009-08-23T20:44:00.000-04:00

I finally got my chair project done. It only took me two coats of paint and looks great (in my opinion). It kind of feels like an outdoor fabric to me. We'll see how she holds up.

A Great Weekend

2009-08-21T06:42:00.005-04:00

I drove by a yard sale last Friday and look what I found. This rug was calling out to me from a distance saying "BUY ME, I'm only $2, it's ok, it's your birthday, do it. So I did what I was told to and brought her home. She looks so nice here in my kitchen.

Since last Friday was my birthday, one of my peeps came by and took me thrifting/antique shopping. We came to this quaint little place in Leota, IN. I'd never been there before, but the covered bridge is what really got my attention. This place is home to the Leota Country Frolic which is going on this weekend.

We went to several antique and junk dealers. I really enjoyed this store and I've added some pictures of the treasures I discovered at this place.

Glass door knobs

Barber shop chair, love that color.

Lots of old fireplace mantels.
This beautiful dresser.
For my fellow chair lovers

An entire building stacked full of old salvaged doors.

This old trunk that reminds me of my great Grandma
This chandy really got my attention. For all you milk glass lovers out there. Look at this beauty in waiting.

And look at those exposed beams and that tin ceiling up there. What a great day. I hope your weekend brings you this much pleasure.

Now That's Sharp

2009-08-17T13:56:00.022-04:00

It's Make Your Monday at Twice Remembered and Knock Off Knock Out at It So Very Cheri so I've linked up this post. Check it out.
When we first started building our new home, there were certain things that I just knew that I wanted to have, even if it meant I had to sacrifice in other areas of my home. Take for example my kitchen. I knew I wanted to have custom cabinets made by Sharp Built Cabinet Co even if that meant I couldn't have granite countertops. I knew that the quality of these cabinets would be well worth the money spent. Steve from Sharp Built Cabinet Co is truely a master carpenter. I wanted a built in trash can and cutting board, but with Steve's years of expertise he put the cutting board directly above the trash can so that all scraps can be raked right into the trash can below. (Please ignore the trash)
And who doesn't want nicely, organized drawers?

Since we were on a tight budget, I was only able to get one of these nicely organized drawers, but I do want to show you how I created more of these custom drawer organizers using only scraps. Here's what I did for the rest of my kitchen. Take any sheet of 1/4" plywood, or leftover paneling that you took down and was gonna throw it away, cuz it's just soooo ugly. Cut it to fit the bottom of your drawer.
Cut some boards or I used left over 1/2" MDF into 3" strips and then cut each piece to the desired length to fit whatever layout you want. Glue and screw these boards onto the plywood from the bottom side using wood screws.

Simply drop it into the drawer and there you have it. An organized drawer. You could paint or stain this as well.
If you are in the market for top-quality, custom cabinets, I would highly recommend using Sharp Built Cabinet Co. Check them out.

Painted Fabric Chair

2009-08-17T06:00:00.004-04:00

So here's a sneak peek of the chair I've been working on. Here's the before.

This is after a coat of primer.So after much thought, I decided to attempt painting the fabric. The fabric was in such good condition that I hated to reupholster the whole thing. This is a picture after only one coat of paint. Kim said she did 4 coats, so I'm hoping that it won't take me that many. It actually looks better than I thought it would.

I hope to get it done this week and I will definitely post some pics.

We Have A Winner!

2009-08-15T11:44:00.006-04:00

Congratulations Amy from Designing A Life I Love. You are the winner of the Red House Happenings apron giveaway.

I have lots of projects going on this week, so stay tuned for some ideas that I know all you OCD, organizational type people will LOVE. And I hope to get the chair project finished as well. Thanks to all my followers and fellow bloggers for your participation in the apron giveaway. Have a Great Weekend!

An Ugly Mess

2009-08-13T07:14:00.006-04:00

Remember this ugly mess? NO, not all the junk in my garage, the chair. I posted about this chair that I found for only $7.00 at a yard sale. Well, I've been laboring over it this week. Stay tuned for the big reveal. Pictures should be up soon.

Tomorrow is the deadline to enter the apron contest. I will randomly pick one lucky person as the winner and make the announcement on Saturday.

Boutique

2009-08-07T10:56:00.004-04:00

Here's another alternative for the skirt transformation that I posted before.
This is just a small sample piece that I will demonstrate. Sandwich a piece of printed fabric between two pieces of denim as shown.

Baste the edges together

Sew some random, curvy lines

Make a cut between the curved lines making sure you only cut the top layer of denim and then make several small cuts up to the seam line. (I hope that made sense)

Once this piece has been laundered a few times it will look like the picture below.

Sew this piece into your skirt as I described in my previous post.

Jeans To Skirt Tutorial

2009-08-05T09:04:00.013-04:00

This is a demonstration of how you can transform your old jeans into a denim skirt. You will need one pair of jeans for the skirt and some fabric for the center panel. I like to use my husbands old worn out jeans for the panels.

First you will need to rip out the hems and the inside leg seams with a seam ripper being very careful not to rip the fabric. (do not cut it out)

Rip out inside leg seams

Once the inside leg seams are ripped, you will need to rip the curved seams up the front and back of the crotch just until the seam starts to go straight as shown:
It can be difficult to get all those little threads out of the seams that have been ripped so I just use masking tape. Press it firmly on the threads and then gently pull the tape off. It's like waxing your jeans.

Lay your jeans out flat on a table and pin into place:

Use your scrap pair of jeans or fabric of your choice to make the center panels for your skirt. I just cut a leg off and cut up the inside seam to get my panel.

Tuck your panel inside the skirt:

Pin the panel in place being sure to tuck under your seam allowances:

Turn your skirt inside out and trim away any bulk fabric:

Turn it right side out again and start sewing from the top and work your way to the bottom.

After you have everything sewn together you can turn it inside out again and trim away any excess fabric.

I repeat this process for the other side of the skirt. Once you have both front and back sides done you can hem it. Another alternative to this skirt is pictured below. On this skirt I did not turn under the seam allowances or the hem. I just left the edges raw and once it has been laundered a few times this is what it will look like.

Giveaway Time

2009-08-04T06:00:00.002-04:00

I am so very excited to be hosting my first giveaway here at Red House Happenings. I know everyone would love to enter and win this sweet little half-apron.

Here are the rules:

1. Become a follower of this blog.

2. Add my button to your blog.

3. Post about this giveaway and include a link to Red House Happenings.

4. Leave me a comment telling me that you have done the above.

The contest will end on August 14th. Good Luck to All!

Sweet Dreams

2009-08-02T15:55:00.005-04:00

I took a stroll through Country Living Magazine and found these beautiful bedroom inspirations. I love how white can make a room feel clean and breezy like the Spring of the year,

and how black and white instantly adds sophistication to any room.
I love how refreshing and inviting the blue and white in this room feels, but most of all I LOVE........

A beautiful chandelier in the bedroom. Who says a chandelier only belongs above the dining room table? It makes even the biggest master bedroom feel intimate, warm and inviting. Do you have a chandelier in your bedroom? If so, I'd like to see it.

Sweet Dreams

Three Cheers for Twice Remembered

2009-08-01T21:42:00.006-04:00

I wanna give a HUGE thank you to Kim. She is such a helpful blogging buddy to me, even when she's out of town she still finds time to answer questions and help me out. She even designed a new button for me. Let's all say a big THANK YOU KIM!!!

Here's What's Happening

2009-07-30T10:49:00.005-04:00

Is it just me or does anyone else get bloggers block? It's been bad the past couple days. Here's a project I've been working on. This mud room/laundry room is finally complete. My client had a custom bench made with dividers for her shoes to slip right into. She had me make a cushion and the curtains in this room.

This laundry room is now functional as a mud room too. If you've done a mud room/laundry room makeover, send me some pictures. I'd love to post them.

I've also been keeping busy in the garden. The tomatoes are coming on like crazy.

So, I made my first attempt at canning. Wow, it's a lot of work. I had no idea what I was getting myself into.

Coming very soon I will be hosting a giveaway that I know you will LOVE, so stayed tuned to find out more details about this contest!!!

Shhhh....It's A Secret!!

2009-07-27T16:03:00.000-04:00

This is a wonderful idea for anyone who may have an electric fireplace or may be thinking about purchasing one. We bought this standard electric firplace insert with mantle kit. Nothing special and quite frankly it seemed small and boring, but that is all we could afford. To make it more substantial, I had my dad build a small box for it to sit on. We just used left over particle board and then tiled this box. Now it seems more permanent.

So what's so great about this?.......it's completely portable. Knowing that I love to rearrange my furniture, my dad decided it might be wise of him to add casters to the bottom of this box. Now I can have a fireplace in my living room or my dining room or anywhere in my house.

The baseboards in our home were already done when we did this project, so my dad made a template of the trimwork. He then cut the tile to fit the profile of our baseboards, as seen in the picture below. When pushed up to the wall it fits like a glove.

Red House Happenings: Vintage Brooch

2009-07-27T09:53:00.000-04:00

http://twiceremembered.blogspot.com/2009/07/make-your-monday-link-party-today.html

Junkologie Blog Party

2009-07-27T09:27:00.000-04:00

I would love to attend this event, if only I lived closer.

Will you be attending? http://junkologie.blogspot.com/

Chair Redo 2

2009-07-25T08:50:00.000-04:00

After a few questions on the "how to" of this chair redo, I thought I'd give a few pointers. This was quite a challenge a first timer, but I had a small advantage in that I do know how to sew. If you are not a person who sews and are wanting to reupholster something, I would suggest something a little more simple in design than this.

1. The most important thing to remember is the order in which you remove the fabric (exp. which piece you removed first, second, third etc.) and if you can't remember, then take pictures along the way or take notes to remind yourself of this process.

2. Use the removed pieces of fabric as a pattern to cut your new pieces. This fabric may be the nastiest thing on the planet so make sure you lay it out on the wrong side of your new fabric, so it doesn't get dirty.

3. Once all fabric is stripped, look at all the guts of the chair. Assess whether you can still use what's there and hopefully you can, because that would be the easiest. If not you may have to get a better cushion or padding. If there is anything structually wrong with your piece, now is the time to fix it, wobbly legs or arms, etc.

4. If there is any wood on your piece that will be refinished, do that before you start to reupholster (something I nearly forgot to do).

5. Reapply the fabric in reverse order that you removed it using a staple gun and pull tightly.

6. If you are using a nailhead trim, it's a LOT more complicated than it looks, even for someone who knows how to drive a nail. I have found that the best place to find nailhead trim is at home improvement stores, rather than at craft stores. It helped me to use needlenose pliers to hold the end and keep it in place while I used a tack hammer to gently nail it in

Gook luck. Send me pics when it's done, I'd love to post them.

Before

After

It's A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood

2009-07-24T21:41:00.001-04:00

The sun was showing it's face through the trees this morning and something about this moment made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. What a beautiful way to start a day. The dew appeared to raise from the ground to meet the sun in the sky. This picture just doesn't give the same effect as looking at it face to face from my back porch. God is good.

I want to thank everyone for their kind comments and warm welcome into the blogging community. Kim thank you for all your help, it is truely appreciated.

Twice Remembered Giveaway

2009-07-22T17:56:00.000-04:00

Twice Remembered is having a great giveaway for anyone interested in starting their own blog. Just click on the link above and become a follower. That's all it takes.

Photo Shoot

2009-07-22T08:52:00.000-04:00

A friend and myself took the girls on a photo shoot Monday. I got the girls all dressed up and we took a drive up the road to find the perfect setting. We stopped at a beautiful field full of Queen Ann's Lace.

I was inspired by some vintage photos taken by Sherelle Christensen . Her photos are amazing.

Sissy blowing me a kiss.

My Picks

2009-07-19T14:27:00.000-04:00

I don't think I've ever had a more pleasant July weekend in my life. Breezy 72 degree weather is so refreshing. If only it would last forever. We spent most of Saturday outside picking blackberries, vegetables and doing yard work. I made blackberry cobbler and even washed windows. It was a very productive day around here. Here's a few pics of our picks.

The gladiolas are in bloom and oh how I love them. They always end up on the ground, so why not cut them and bring them inside to enjoy.
And take a look at this beautiful strawberry pot full of Hens and Chicks. I've always loved these little plants, but never could think of a good place to put them. Thanks to a friend of mine, I now have a great idea and even walked away with some starts.

Here are some more beautiful ideas for what you can do with your old strawberry pots. http://www.rainyside.com/container/YeOldStrawberryPot.html

What have you done with your strawberry pots?

Aprons

2009-07-17T08:57:00.000-04:00

Oh how I love a cute little apron. I used one of my 99 cent apron patterns a few weeks ago and here's what I created.

I love this apron by Boojiboo.

Telephone Bench

2009-07-14T09:09:00.000-04:00

I've fallen in love with this darling little gossip center. A friend brought this to me to reupholster. It has been in her basement collecting dust for a long time and desperately needed a facelift.

See how much better it looks with new fabric and beautiful bronze nail head trim. I WANT IT!!!

It's a Dog's Life

2009-07-12T15:25:00.000-04:00

Daddy completed his doghouse project last week. I think any dog would be proud to call this home.

Eventually, he wants to find a flower box that will fit under the bay window.

Independence Day

2009-07-03T17:55:00.000-04:00

Wishing everyone a very happy 4th of July. Thank you to all those who've made a sacrifice for this country so that we can be free. God Bless America.

Our Mini Vacation

2009-07-01T19:56:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pics from our "mini vacation" to the Columbus Zoo and Cedar Point. The weather was perfect and we had a wonderful time. This picture cracks me up. Sissy is such a good big sis.

It's hard to tell from this picture, but that's a bear they are standing in front of.

This was the highlight for Prissy. She chased Snoopy down because she wanted to squeeze him.
Sissy riding the swings. Cedar Point has 17 coasters and she rode 16 of them. What a great 10 year old! I'm so proud.

We took this picture of ourselves after spending ALL day at Cedar Point. Look at our messy heads. It's good to be home again!

Another Great Giveaway!!!

2009-06-23T21:34:00.000-04:00

Check out http://www.monogramchick.blogspot.com/. This giveaway is absolutely Fabulous. I gotta have it!!!

2009-06-23T17:47:00.000-04:00

This time of year there always seems to be an over-abundance of zucchini, but what to do with all of it? If only everything I planted grew so plentiful.

Zucchini Bread

3 Eggs

2 Cups Sugar

1 Tbsp. Cinnamon

1/2 tsp. baking powder

3 Cups flour

1/2 Cup chopped nuts

1 Cup oil

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. soda

1 tsp. vanilla

2 Cups peeled, grated zucchini

Mix together thoroughly. Pour into two loaf pans. Bake 40-45 minutes at 375 degrees. Mix glaze together.

Glaze:

1 Cup powdered Sugar 1/2 Cup orange juice

Prick loaves with fork and pour over while still hot.

How do you like your zucchini?

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T11:00:00.001-04:00

I'm so blessed to have a dad like mine. He's taught me so much, by example, but most important to live for God always. There will be trials and tests in life, but living a life for God will make them easier to bear. Thank you Daddy.

And to my wonderful hubby, thank you for being a wonderful husband, father and provider for us. We love and appreciate you!

Your Girls

Have a Seat

2009-06-20T14:57:00.000-04:00

Would you just look at what momma brought home from a yard sale? This Chair only cost me $7.00. It's in great condition. Looks like it's never been used. I can't wait to give this a makeover.

And speaking of a makeover, I decided to give my bar stools a little face lift as well. Here's a picture of how they looked before. They were dark and just seemed to disappear.

And here's what they look like now.

Summer Dress

2009-06-19T21:32:00.000-04:00

Another rainy day, another dress.

My Sweet Savannah Giveaway!!!

2009-06-19T20:48:00.000-04:00

I am so excited about this giveaway from My Sweet Savannah http://www.mysweetsavannah.blogspot.com/

First up!
You will receive one of my little white pots with a black crown on the front.
Also, a Tyler candle company candle with a 20-25 hour burn time in "intense"
These make your whole house smell sooooo good!

And finally!
A pillow case covered in vintage Paris Postcards!

Here are the rules....
Post a link to this giveaway on your blog.
Make sure you link back here.
Leave a comment on this post.
That is it!

Why Do I Even Have A Blog?

2009-06-18T22:41:00.000-04:00

I have no idea.

A Day of Sewing

2009-06-15T10:04:00.000-04:00

I'm off to the fabric store today to stock up on fabric while it's on sale. We've had so much rain lately that I've been able to do some sewing. Here's what I made last week.

My cute little model. I bought these cute apron patterns for only .99 cents last week

And I LOVE this one.

Where's the Deck?

2009-06-14T14:35:00.000-04:00

This space is so unusable right now. I think it needs something,

like this deck http://www.decks.com/deckplans/deckplandetails.aspx?plan=2L052. Maybe that's what it's missing. I just need someone to build it. Oh yeah, and pay for it too.

Random Happenings

2009-06-14T14:14:00.000-04:00

Miss. Prissy and I were bored stiff one day so we had a picnic under the trees while Sissy was still in school.

We pitched a blanket in the back yard and took some goofy pictures.

Miss Prissy's preschool graduation, awww.
My precious little angels.

I am so blessed.

This and That

2009-06-13T15:33:00.000-04:00

I have been so busy lately with the kids out of school for the summer, watching my nephews and doing a little gardening. I finally got the headboard done. I thought it was sweet. I have yet to hang her mirrors back up on the wall. I took a stroll outside today to check on the garden after the terrible storm that rolled through last night. Everything seems to be doing well, especially the weeds.

The daisy's are starting to bloom.

And look what my dad has been working on. It's amazing what that man can do with some scraps. What can I say, the man loves his dog. It's still not complete, but I'll take pics when it is because this dog house will have a front porch and flower boxes. I'm jealous, I want a bay window too. lol

Headboards

2009-06-12T09:18:00.000-04:00

My next project will be making a headboard for this bedroom. I'll add pics when its done.

I made this one for a friends daughter.

Simple creamy white.

This website has instructions on how you can make your own upholstered headboard.
http://www.bejane.com/headboard

The Writing is on the Wall

2009-06-12T09:17:00.000-04:00

If there is anyone out there that hasn't heard of Uppercase Living. You gotta see this stuff. I love it. Vinyl decals that can be put on any hard surface. This is my most recent purchase.

There's no mistaking where the pantry is now.

They also make chalkboard decals. I have one on order that will go on the wall above this bench. I can't wait to get it. Here's the link for the chalkboards. http://bethann.uppercaseliving.net/ViewItem.m?CategoryId=174&DesignId=&ItemId=17848&Keyword=chalk&CurrentPage=1

Faith, Hope and Love

I saw this idea from My Sweet Savannah. http://mysweetsavannah.blogspot.com/2008/11/how-to.html

This would be an expensive decal. So I borrowed an overhead projector and hand painted it.

~Dianne~

Bathrooms

2009-06-12T09:16:00.000-04:00

I lOVE this bathroom from Pottery Barn

A girl can dream.

Vintage Brooch

2009-06-12T09:15:00.000-04:00

Here are some vintage brooches that belonged to my grandmother. They were given to me after she past away. They have no real value other than sentimental value to me. Although I don't wear brooches, I really wanted to be able to look at them often. I purchased some small blank canvas and covered them with craft paper and simply hot glued the brooches and embellishments on. I also glued some ric-rac around the edges. I have them on display in my hall bathroom and I think of her everytime I look at them.

~Dianne~

Nightingale Quilt

2009-06-12T09:14:00.002-04:00

This was the very first quilt I made. I got the idea from a book called Doodle Stitching by Aimee Ray http://www.dreamfollow.com/ I have since made another, in which I failed to take a picture before giving it as a baby shower gift. I would love to do another in a different color scheme. I think blues and browns would be beautiful.

Backsplash

2009-06-12T09:14:00.001-04:00

I have always wanted a tile backsplash, but never thought I had what it took to complete a project like this. One day I decided to go for it. I used glass tile that is mounted on mesh. This project was suprisingly simple. Here are my results.

One friend liked the results so much that she decided to have me do one for her kitchen as well. We used slate tile for this project. This one proved to be more difficult than the last because of the diagonal tile in the center.

At The Red House

2009-06-12T09:09:00.000-04:00

Today I finally got some much needed vitamin D. It was beautiful outside and I took full advantage of it. I worked on raking leaves, picking up sticks, weeding the flower beds and spraying for mosquitos and ticks. Not an easy undertaking!!! I'm so sore I can hardly move, but things outsite are shaping up nicely. Hubby's renting a power seeder tomorrow and I've got to get started on prepping my garden. Busy, busy, busy.

Here is a very simple and yet budget friendly project using mirror tiles that you can get from any craft store. I got mine at Hobby Lobby while they were 50% off. The tiles ended up costing me about $50.00. Lay them out on a piece of 1/2" MDF. Make marks and cut the MDF to fit whatever size tiles you have. Paint the MDF and simply glue the tiles down with construction adhesive. There you have it!!! Something this size would cost twice as much in the store. I also hung pictures on top of the mirror to give it a layered look. Have fun with this one.

~Dianne~