How to Decorate Your Kids Bedroom?

The kids bedroom should be decorated in a manner that makes it appealing and welcoming. This is because there are instances when they spend a large portion of their time in the room and it is important to ensure that they identify with it and everything that is inside. This does not have to be a costly affair and especially, as long as you know what it takes to make it attractive and welcoming. There are a couple of ways through which you can achieve this end and though this is the case, one of the most reliable and efficient ways is through use of cushion for kids.

Kids are supposed to get the best of everything and it is for this reason that this is a smart choice. With these cushions, you not only increase the appeal of the room but also make it more welcoming and comforting. Before proceeding to invest in these cushions however, consider the following.

• You have to choose cushions that compliment the needs and personality of your kids. This is because at any given time, you will have numerous options to choose from and your decision should be an informed one. It is therefore of utmost important to ensure the choice you make can compliment the needs of the kids. For instance, some of the options at your disposal include comforter sets and quilt covers.

• Another aspect you need to consider is the designs, colors and softness. These aspects are largely dependent on the personality of your young ones and it is important to ensure that important aspects are not overlooked. This is the only way to increase the probability of making them feel comfortable.

• The cushion for kids selected should compliment the rest of the decor in order to ensure everything is coordinated. This is the only way to ensure that nothing feels and looks like it is out of place. What is more, it will also ensure the ambiance of the room is increased.

• Finally, you have to decide how they are cushions are going to be used and how your kids can get the most out of them.

Once you choose to decorate the kids room, the first thing you should do is draw a budget. This will make it possible for you to shop wisely and ensure that you do not exceed the budget. What is more, this guides you through the process of making an informed decision about exactly what you need in order to transform the room and ensure that your kids enjoy the best of everything.

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Pool Building: DIY Excavation Pitfalls

It's all the recent developments in prefabricated pools that has given do-it-yourself pool builders a big boost. So now more people than ever before are saying to themselves, "Hey I can do that", and starting up with plans to save a bunch of money by building their own inground pool from start to finish.

Even so, given the size and the complexity the job it's not without its own share of pitfalls - potential mistakes along the way that if not avoided work to make the job more difficult and expensive than it should be. So just keep on reading, and you can learn from those who have gone before you.

Wrong Time of Year to Excavate

Timing is everything when it comes to dig a giant hole in your backyard. Once you start to dig you need to have the pool done and filled with water before the winter rains sets in or you'll have big problems. Underestimate the time that it will take you to complete the job and start late and you can end up with a giant mud-hole where you thought you were going to have a pool.

So don't start painting yourself up as a 'Superman' when you're planning your job because even professional estimators get it wrong all the time. In fact people make a good living as job estimators because all they know how to do is get the timing right. So being that it's your first excavation job give yourself plenty of leeway when you're trying to calculate a how long it will take you to finish it.

Unforseen Underground Surprises

Another common blunder that first-time do-it-yourself pool builders can make it simply assuming that there's just dirt under the ground that they they have to dig up. Excavating soft ground is a big enough job but all you have to do is to run into hardpan, or even worse yet, bedrock or large boulders, and you'll have real problems on your hands.

The only way to remove large boulders or bedrock is by blasting and you're sure not going to be doing that yourself. Blasting is incredibly expensive to have done, so make sure that you have a pretty good idea of what's underground before you take it upon yourself to start in excavating. Look at the geology around your area and talk to other people who have had pools dug.

Thinking You Can Dig By Hand

Then another all too common mistake that 'ambitious' do-it-yourself pool builders make, is thinking that they're going to dig the pool by hand with a pick, shovel and wheelbarrow. Now with a very small prefabricated inground pool it is possible, but even if it is still a massive job that can take weeks. Keep in mind though, that this is the very smallest of pools.

Larger pools are going to require a backhoe and a dump truck to remove the dirt but this doesn't necessarily mean that you need to hire a contractor. This is because you could buy DVDs online that show you step-by-step how to operate a backhoe, and you don't need any kind of special license to rent one down at your local heavy equipment rental yard.

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Deep Creek Falls Fountain - The Ultimate Art Piece

When average pieces of art simply will not do, you need something so jaw-dropping that it will stop guests in their track. You need art that you can marvel at, and just lose yourself in from time-to-time. The Deep Creek Falls Fountain fits this description.

Unparalleled in Beauty

When you first come face-to-face with this wall water feature, it is common to be a little taken back. This is a massive fountain, so if you do not just pause and maybe even feel your hearts flutter a little, it would be very surprising.

The fountain is a masterpiece on its own. You may find yourself trying to determine if it is vertical or horizontal. After all, the three large panels are vertical, but since they are placed next to one another, it could also be considered a horizontal fountain. This means that it will absorb the coldness of a large, empty wall quite nicely.

The trim at the top and the bottom can be antique black copper, rustic copper or stainless steel, and if you prefer, you can have round corners instead of square ones. This may seem like a detail that really won't get noticed, but don't underestimate the power of balancing curved and straight edges.

The huge faces of the Deep Creek Falls Fountain are available in silver mirror, rainforest green or brown marble, rajah or green slate, black spider marble and Featherstone in black, rajah or green. If you have prints in your living space already, the silver mirror option would be beautiful without making the room appear too busy. Otherwise, any of these natural materials are stunning, and since they are natural, no two fountains will ever be the same, as the pattern will be different on every one.

Create Ambiance

Aside from the tranquil sound and visual beauty the fountain offers as the water cascades over all three faces, it also provides ambiance through lighting. A total of nine 50-watt halogen lights highlight the curves of the water as it falls to a pebble beach splash guard below. There is even a dimmer switch, so you can control the brightness of these lights, and a pull chain allows you to turn the off completely.

This American-made water feature will make a bold statement in your home. This will be the first thing guests look at, and you may even catch them taking one last glance as they are walking out the door!

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Three Decorating Rules When Decorating With Coastal Themed Accent Pillows

When you're looking to give your home a coastal theme, the easiest way to start is by adding beach themed accent pillows. Accent pillows come in a variety of different colors, fabrics, and bold graphic prints. You can choose from many different coastal styles. Accent pillows are an easy and inexpensive way to bring seaside decor into your home. However, just because they are easy and inexpensive doesn't mean that every pillow will go with an established look. When decorating with accent pillows, there are three rules to know that will help give you the beach chic home decor of your dreams.

1. Have a Plan

It's important that before you start buying any accent pillows that you plan for your overall coastal decorating scheme. Study your existing furniture, is it beach themed furniture? Do you have any wall art? What about the colors or patterns on your existing sofa and chairs? What are they like?

Once you've determined what you have, next determine what complements and contrasts with it. Most often you're looking for a contrast instead of something that blends in. For example, if your sofa is a light color or has a delicate pattern, you may want to go with a coastal themed accent pillow that has a single bold graphic done in a powerful color, like a red crab for instance.

2. Odds are Better than Evens

The next rule for seaside decorating with accent pillows is that odds are more often better than evens. Specifically, if you're looking to put accent pillows on the sofa or couch, then you may want to consider five: Two large accents pillows, two medium ones, and one small one.

The smallest pillow should be the most distinct pillow, with the most interesting texture or the boldest graphic. You need something that will set it apart from the other pillows and draw attention to it. Even though it is small, it'll make a big statement.

The pair of large pillows in this example should be the most subdued. This can be accomplished with color or with a fine delicate pattern, like small white seahorses on a blue background for instance.

The medium pair of pillows should contrast with the large pillows, but still complement them. For example, if the large pillows have small graphics (like the seahorses mentioned above), then the same graphic, only larger, would work for the medium pillows. Such as a single large seahorse against a blue background.

You don't need to rely strictly on color or pattern alone to make this contrast; it can also be achieved with distinctive fabrics such as burlap, cotton or woven.

3. KISS- Keep It Seriously Simple

Above all, the number one rule in chic home decorating with seaside decor is to keep it simple. We've already mentioned that you don't want to have more than five pillows on any single sofa or couch. Loveseats should have 3 or 5 pillows, while large chairs or recliners will look great with up to three. A basic chair should have one pillow. While all pillows should be somewhat similar and complimentary to one another, they should not necessarily be the same pillow.

Be bold when you pick your pillows, experiment with different colors, patterns, shapes, and textures. Look for pillows to provide a sharp contrast but still look good together. That's the real secret of decorating with coastal style accent pillows.

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Buy Sofa Bean Bag Chairs for Your Living Room

Is it really practical to buy sofa bean bag chairs for your living room? After all, you are a grown adult; can you really get away with using these bags of beans for your primary seating? Will people want to even sit on them? Will they immediately call people they know, and have a little laugh when they leave? If you are asking all these questions, you are certainly not alone, but rest-assured that there are a lot more people replacing their old sofa for an extra-large bean bag chair than you might think.

What is Wrong with Your Current Sofa?

Chances are good that if you take a minute to evaluate the current couch or love seat that you have, you can make a list of everything you do not like about each one. Perhaps it is worn out in one spot where you always sit, or maybe you just can't seem to get comfortable on it anymore, no matter how hard you try. Does it look dated in your space or are there a lot of old stains on it? These are all reasons why people buy sofa bean bag chairs for their primary living space. These concerns are not experienced with these furniture pieces.

Are They Big Enough?

When most people think of a bean bag chair, they picture a small, round bag of beans. There is even a good chance that the one you picture is vinyl and brightly colored, if you grew up in the 70s. If this is what you are imagining then when you start shopping to buy sofa bean bag chairs, you will be quite surprised.

These pieces of furniture really are practical to use to replace your current sofa because you can buy them as long as 7 feet. Surely this is long enough for anyone in your house to stretch out on?

Will They Last?

You might also be thrilled to learn that many people buy sofa bean bag chairs primarily because they have such a long life. A traditional sofa wears out in your favorite spot, until eventually, it is no longer your favorite spot. A bean bag sofa doesn't! When you sit down, the beans all move so they conform to the shape of your body. Not only is this supportive and unbelievable comfortable, it means that your favorite spot will remain your favorite spot. Depending on the chair, you may need to add a bag of beans sometimes, but that's a lot better than buying a new sofa.

Also, when you buy sofa bean bag chairs that have a removable and machine-washable cover, it will continue to look its best through the years because cleanup is a breeze. You sure can't squeeze a regular sofa in your washing machine! This also makes them ideal for homes with dirty little fingers and paws as well.

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Privacy Screens Don't Have to Be Unsightly!

Depending on how your home was designed, privacy screens might be a necessity for you if you want to keep nosy people away from your premises. Of course, there are some compromises to be made here, as you may not always be able to design things in an aesthetically pleasing way, especially if those screens are being placed as an afterthought and the house wasn't designed with them in the first place.

However, you don't really have to make your privacy screens look unsightly and have them degrade the aesthetic value of your home - all it takes is choosing the right company to buy those screens from in the first place. The rest is an easy ordeal, as the best companies on this market can help you not only choose the ideal screens for your home, but also install and prepare everything for you.

The materials used in the design of your privacy screens are going to matter a lot. Many companies that manufacture cheap, low-end products tend to use a single material that's most financially convenient for them to acquire in steady supplies, which might be good in terms of costs but definitely doesn't work that well if you're looking for something that looks good on your house.

The trick is usually to combine several materials and create something varied yet consistent, which features the best qualities of all materials involved. Sometimes the best combinations come from the most unusual places, for example by using wood and aluminum together. This may sound strange, but such combinations can really look sharp and attractive when a little bit of thought is put into their design. The best part is that by combining specific materials like that, a lot can be done to improve the insulation and durability of the final product.

That's why you'll see the best companies in the market for privacy screens constantly combining materials in their products. This allows them to not only match the aesthetics of their clients' homes, but also to create something that will last a lot longer than the products of their competitors.

Durability is actually a big problem to consider here, and a lot of work has gone into mitigating some common issues related to it lately. The problem is that many companies tend to compromise the sturdiness of their privacy screens just to make them look a little bit nicer, which is definitely not what you want to see in your own screens. The best approach to this problem lies in a solid understanding of how different materials work together, as we outlined above.

Last but not least, keep an eye on the company's terms regarding the installation of your privacy screens. This should be done entirely by them, as attempting to put up the screen on your own can usually lead to various problems, plus it may void your warranty with some companies. Just make sure that you won't have to pay any ridiculous prices for the installation alone, as this is another common trick used by some shadier companies on this market.

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Buy Bean Bag Chairs for Kids of All Ages

It does not matter if you have toddlers or teenagers, you can buy bean bag chairs for kids of all ages and they are all sure to love them. Interesting though, you will find that they all have different reasons for loving these pieces of furniture.

Toddlers

Toddlers may tell you that they love these bags of beans because they are fun, but really, you need to read between the lines. First things first; they look exciting to sit on! Although you may choose to buy bean bag chairs that offer the traditional round shape, there are plenty of other styles to choose from. You can actually find them in a multitude of shapes, such as a frog, baseball glove, soccer ball, basketball, football, octopus, whale and more. There are also some that have popular characters or movies printed on them, like Toy Story and Cars.

When you buy bean bag chairs for toddlers, you give them a piece of furniture that is more their size. It is easy to get on and get comfortable in. It is also lightweight, so they can drag their special chair to the living room for family game night. Best of all, you don't have to worry about getting the good furniture dirty if they spill their juice box.

Adolescent

Maybe you have already noticed how impossible it is to make adolescents truly happy. Does it seem as though nothing is ever cool or good enough? The process of decorating their room is enough to give any parent a migraine. Well, one thing you can count on them liking is a bean bag chair. Aside from the fact that they are about the coolest pieces of furniture you can buy them, they will appreciate how comfortable they are when they are playing video games for hours, whether they admit it or not.

Teenagers

Generally, teenagers are a little easier to please, simply because they will tell you exactly what they like and dislike, so you don't have to waste your time, energy and patience trying to guess. There is a good chance that if you ask them what furniture they want for their bedroom or college dorm room, they will ask you to buy bean bag chairs.

These are the absolutely best chairs to sit in to study. There is nothing worse than trying to focus and learn something when your back is aching, your neck feels tense and a headache begins to develop. Bean bags cradle every inch of your body. When you move, so do the beans, so you are always completely supported and unbelievably comfortable.

Plus, when you buy bean bag chairs at this age, they are often the one piece of furniture that they take with them to their first apartment. That or it gets left behind and becomes the dog's bed. Either way, it is put to good use!

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Use A Cowhide Rug As A Centerpiece In Your Home

Are you considering designing your bedroom, office, etc., but are bored of the usual methods? If so, cowhides may be a new way to design the rooms. Cowhide rugs are acknowledged for their quality and texture, and are now one of the most common choices with interior designers. Cowhide Rugs are readily available in several colors, sizes, patterns, and designs. They offer a refreshing and new look to a room.

Cowhide rugs are produced by tanning the skin of dead cows. It is a straightforward process and lots of farmers carry this out as soon as their cows have died. These products are available with a multitude of traders in the market place. Suppliers of cowhide rugs make to order and many different types of rugs can be purchased as and when needed.

These rugs are made of high quality cowhide, and can be chromium tanned which in turn includes several styles, patterns and colorations. If you look after for your rugs correctly, they can remain in the same good quality for a lifetime. Cleaning them is an easy process that can be done with a handful of household products. In the event that you discover any staining on the rug, clean it as quickly as possible. New stains are less difficult to remove than dry ones. These rugs can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner. The fur hide version requires much care when vacuum cleaning as the fur can get snagged in the brush of the vacuum, and this could damage the rug.

Today, there are several rugs that are available in various colors and designs. Some are painted with different colors. There are rugs containing designs of animals like the tiger, zebra, cheetah or leopard and are usually colored according to customer choice. Today people buy rugs to match their environment and various themes for their wall.

Cowhide Rugs are offered in various measurements. There will be large rugs that are put to use as centerpieces within rooms or placed on big walls. Small rugs used in front of furniture like ottomans or any other stylish thing. There are different rugs that can be used on coffee tables, dressing tables and bedside tables also, so as you can see they can be very versatile.

Hope you enjoyed reading about these types of rugs as much as I have enjoyed talking about them. When anyone walks into your home, your cowhide rug will certainly be the center of attention.

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How To Paint On Travertine Bathroom Tiles?

People who want to paint tiles should understand that painting can easily decrease their durability i.e. if they are not careful, it is easily damaged. Painting is grabbing many new decorators' attentions especially in bathrooms, living space and hotels. Several painting kits are available in the market with instructions. When the instructions are not followed, it may cause severe skin allergies. You can use 100% acrylic semi-gloss primer and paints. All it requires it patience and labour.

Here are few steps how to paint Travertine Bathroom Tiles

Move all your furniture and other objects to other room. Make sure you switch on the ventilation fan and keep your windows open, since the chemicals found in the paints can cause breathing problems. So it is better to wear goggles and gloves. Clean your surface with soft broom and wipe it with trisodium solution. Make sure your Travertine Bathroom Tiles are free from debris and dusts. By using this trisodium solution you can easily remove the grease, wax, stain and oil from the floor. And allow the floor to dry. Remember paint should have low water content as water can dissolve on surface. Start painting from far corner of the room so that you can easily paint in the other corners and also no one can walk during the wet paint. Decide which color paint you want to choose that fits your theme. Since travertine tiles are porous they have less ability of absorbing water. Through painting this type of tiles high smooth, polished and sealed surface. Clean and totally seal the tiles. Paint gives a smooth and flat surface. Make sure to fill all the holes present on the surface of the Travertine Bathroom Tiles either with resin or sealant before painting. So that the pores do not gather the moisture found in atmosphere. If you find filled pores, it avoids cracking and increases durability.

Apply a first coating of background paint on the tiles and make sure you use small brushes. First start painting with simple designs and check whether you can do well. If so you are confident, start painting further deigns. Check whether you paint smoothly and make even strokes. Once the paint is fully dried, apply one or two coatings sealant on the surface of the tiles. Sealing is usually done to make the paint stay for long time and locks your painted tiles and makes them more safe. If you are not confident with painting work and you can easily remove the paint with trioxide solution. Just apply the solution and wipe it out.

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Decorating Your Bedroom in Coastal Style

If you're looking to decorate your home in beach home decor, there's no better place to start than in the bedroom. Beach bedroom decor doesn't necessarily mean redoing your entire bedroom. While it's true adding 'hard touches' such as wainscoting and shutters do make a room look more coastal, there are many 'soft decorating touches' you can do instead, that are easier, faster, and more affordable.

Soft touches involve incorporating a variety of home decoration items (i.e. accessories,) into your already existing bedroom to give it that coastal decor flair you're looking for.

Naturally, it all starts with the bed itself. The bed is the focal point of any bedroom, so it should be 'dressed' in the style of seaside decor. Bedspreads done in beach style can go a long way to making your entire room look and feel coastal. A bedspread doesn't necessarily have to have seashells on it on order to be considered coastal decorating, a patterned bedspread or soft comforter with colors of the seashore works just as well.

For an extra pop of color and to complete the beach themed look for the bed, choose beach themed accent pillows that complement the bedspread. There are many different beach theme styles to choose from: nautical with navy, red, and whites, soft beach colors in aqua, grey, and seafoam green, and a new preppy beach style with pinks, greens, and blues.

Beach wall art plays an important part in coastal decor. This can include any kind of nautical wall decor like mirrors with nautical themes, shadow boxes with souvenirs of the seashore in them, or frames done in a weathered wash finish which is a widely popular beach theme look. Another popular trend in beach wall art is vintage style wooden signal flag signs. Real signal flags have a language all their own and with the wide variety of wooden signal flag signs available today, you can actually 'spell' out messages on your wall, sharing their true meaning with the most special people in your life.

When decorating your bedroom in beach decor, don't forget the surfaces. Dressers, nightstands, and bookshelves are wonderful places to put hurricane lamps, nautical inspired tea lights, and even large glass bottles that come in the colors of the ocean such as cobalt blue, fanciful turquoise, and golden amber. These bottles can be left as is, turned into lamps, or filled with small shells and sand.

There are many soft touches you can do to your home to make it feel more like a beach house. By focusing on soft touches when decorating, you can save yourself the expense and aggravation of a true home remodel. Best of all, you can add and remove pieces whenever the mood strikes you to create the seaside bedroom decor of your dreams.

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Vanity Table for Teenagers - Design Ideas

Vanity table is common furniture existing in today's modern bedrooms. This station enables us to do our morning rituals such as brushing hair, putting on makeup, etc. easier. Plenty of drawers also help us to store and organize necessary makeup items neatly. Getting a new vanity table for a teenager's new or refurbished chamber is fun, but also can be a bit difficult. Since teenagers have quite different taste than adults, you may have different opinion when choosing the furniture.

Choosing this kind of table for teenagers can be done by recognizing their preference of style and color. It could also be done by matching with their personality. As teenagers are somewhere between childhood and adulthood, it may be too childish to give them vanity tables with cartoon designs, but also too mature to present heavily carved makeup station inside their room.

For a romantic girl, you can opt for slender, seemingly delicate table with soft colors such as gold, off-white, nude pink, cream, or white. Slender design will elicit the romantic impression of a room. On the other hand, cheerful teenagers who are less feminine might want different designs such as contemporary-styled table with more cheerful colors and less carving ornaments. Apart from the cheerful and romantic ones, there are also teenagers who tend to like classic, more mature styles. For this, you can choose elegant designs such as black vanity table with mirror, metal ornaments, or skirting.

Apart from the design, there are a few other things you should consider when choosing table for teenagers. One of the things to consider is the size of the table. As teenagers are taller than children but not yet as tall as adults, the table needs to be closer to the floor compared to adult's vanities to allow comfortable seating. However, if the teenage is almost as tall as adult's height, regular vanity table can serve the function better.

Another consideration would be the material and features of the table. Heavy wood makes the vanity seems serious and too mature. To get sturdy yet attractive furniture, opt for vanity table made from wood veneers or fiberboard from medium density. To make it more useful, organize the table according to the teenager's interest. If, for example, she loves make up, get drawers that accommodates the organization of lipstick, eye shadows, blush on, and other makeup kits. On the other hand, if the girl gives more concern on her body and hair treatments, opt for drawers that allow her to store lots of accessories.

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Papasan Chairs - The Perfect Furniture for a Bachelor Pad

It is the common assumption of many people that men are clueless when it comes to matters of interior decorating, and that most members of the male species need some assistance or advice from the women in their lives with regards to making such decisions.

Of course, this assumption does not necessarily hold true because we already know, especially nowadays, that there are a lot of men who can really hold their own when designing their own homes. However, if you are one of those men who are indeed quite at a loss when it is time to purchase furniture for your newly acquired bachelor pad, worry no more because there is one piece of furniture that can save you from your dilemma, and that is the papasan chair.

At first look, you may be wondering what's so great about the papasan chair. Furthermore, you may be thinking what makes it so perfect for a bachelor pad. If you had been a child in the seventies or even the early eighties, it's very likely that you have fond memories of the papasan chair that your parents had in their home at the time.

Most American homes had at least one of these chairs because it was at the height of fashion back then, and for many good reasons. Besides being completely different in design from all other chairs available in the stores, the papasan chair is also extremely comfortable to sit in. It was used primarily for watching television, which we all know is one of the most beloved pastimes of men even to this day.

With the ample space that the round seat provides, there is no better chair to recline in while watching a football game or an action-packed movie than the papasan chair. You can comfortably lean back in the chair while eating your bowl of popcorn until the game or the movie is finished without feeling any cricks in your back or any other kind of discomfort because the papasan chair is adequately padded. You can even shift your weight around quite easily without having to get up - that's how comfortable and relaxing the chair is.

Some men worry that the papasan chair won't be able to take the weight of their bodies, especially if they are quite on the heavy side. Although there is a limit to how much weight the papasan chair can take, this limit is much higher than most people assume.

The rattan material that the chairs are typically made of is deceptively fragile-looking but is actually quite sturdy and very durable. A good quality papasan chair can easily seat a 300-pounder without any problems. However, it can be a challenge for some heavyweights to get out of the chair especially after sitting in it for prolonged periods, since the seat is recessed and it does require some amount of effort to lift your body out of the chair.

The original papasan chair is indeed the perfect chair for any bachelor pad. It is ideal for watching television, reading a book, or even taking a nap. But if you are expecting to have some female company from time to time for a romantic evening perhaps, you can opt for the mamasan chair instead, which looks basically like a stretched-out papasan chair.

Instead of being completely round, the mamasan chair is oval and can accommodate two people, just like a loveseat. It also comes with a thick cushion, making it the perfect place to snuggle and enjoy some romance with your girlfriend.

What's really great about these unique chairs is that they are very reasonably priced. For just a hundred bucks or so, you can turn your nondescript apartment into a chic bachelor's pad that will surely be the envy of all your friends.

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The 'Amuse-Bouche' Of Your Home

Are you familiar with the term 'amuse-bouche'?

Normally experienced in a restaurant setting, an amuse-bouche is a single, bite-sized hors d'oeuvre - complements of the chef.

Its purpose is to tickle your taste buds and whet your appetite for what's to come.

If you think about it, the entryway to your home is a kind of amuse-bouche,although you aren't likely to see it described in that manner in any publications on interior design.

Why do I say this?

Let's explore the purpose of the Entry, and you will see what I mean. The Entryway is:

· A place to enter the home

· A place to receive visitors

Here's what else the Entry is meant to do:

· Say something about the people who live there, by suggesting their interests and personalities

· Be warm and inviting, so visitors feel welcomed.

· Offer a hint of 'what's to come'

Do you see the connection?

In my own home, the Entry is pleasant enough, although fairly typical in size and furnishings - with a low ceiling, a small table, a mirror and a closet for hanging coats.

Yet one is immediately aware of an immense space around the corner, and the furnishings in the next room that definitely say something about me and my family.

Now, if you're like me and your home has an attached garage, it's a whole different story.

Chances are that the entryway you really use is the one that leads directly from the garage into your house.

Have you ever given that second entry much thought?

I know I haven't.

Speaking for myself, when I enter my home through the garage it's an entirely different experience. One enters into a stairwell, surrounded on three sides by walls.

Is it attractive?

No.

Is it inviting?

Not really.

Would I want guests to use this entrance?

No - they'd see all the junk in the garage.

That said, the second entry into your home might need some extra love and attention. The easiest suggestion that comes to mind is paint.

At least, that's my plan for now.

The very thought of entering my house, via the garage, and seeing a welcoming splash of color on the wall directly ahead - puts a smile on my face.

What would induce a similar smile for you?

What can you do to spruce up your entryway - and arrive at that 'amuse-bouche' no matter which entrance you might use?

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How To Make Drapes: Things You Need To Know

At some point, you will come to a decision to replace your drapes at home. However, one of the biggest obstacles in replacing the drapes at home is your budget. Most drapes these days come with a hefty price tag. Not all homeowners can afford it. Nevertheless, when the going gets tough, you have to make your own drapes. Yes, it is possible. There are many ways that can help you how to make drapes.

In this article, you will get to know how to create your very own drapes. It will not involve too much money, but you can still get a lot of satisfaction by looking on the drapes that you made on your own. Read along and find out how you can make drapes.

First off, you will need all the essential materials in creating your own drapes. These materials include the drape fabric, lining material and the curtain tape. Here is the step-by-step guide on how you can make your own drapes:

1. You have to measure from the curtain rod at the top of the window up to where you wish the drapes to end. To allow for hems, you should at least add 10 inches to its overall length.

2. Next, measure the window's width and you need to double it.

3. You need to know how much material you need. In addition, you need to buy the same amount of lining if you want to line the drapes.

4. Afterwards, you should cut the chosen material in half to create two linings and two drapes.

5. Arrange a piece of the fabric with the right side facing down.

6. At the bottom of the fabric, you have to pin up a four-inch hem. Press the hem with an iron. You should fold the fabric up for another four inches. To keep the fabric in place, pin it then sew the hem.

7. Cut the lining to make it narrower than the drapes.

8. At the bottom of the lining, pin up a two-inch hem then iron it. Fold an added two-inch hem then iron and sew it.

9. Then, you need to face the drape on a table with the right side facing up this time.

10. You need to pin the ends of the lining and drape then sew them. Along the long sides, you have to sew the lining and drape together. Surely, this how to make drapes method will really help you.

11. For the right side to be visible, turn the lining and the fabric.

12. You should fold the material's top side to create a one-inch hem. Fold it again to make one more one-inch hem.

13. You need to sew the curtain tape on the drape's top hem.

14. Connect the hooks that will fit in the curtain rod's rings.

15. To complete the other pieces of fabrics, you need to repeat steps 4 to 14.

These tips will surely let you create the drapes on your own. Overall, the best ways on how to make drapes will get rid of any expensive deals that you might encounter once you have decided to purchase curtains. The results are very rewarding, which is why you have to know these steps to serve you for better.

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Vanity Table With Mirror: A Great Addition for Your Teenage Girl's Room

So now, your little girl turn into a teenager and you may find many changes on her. As she grows up, she probably puts great interest on make-up, clothing or hair styling. She will spend too much time to put her make-up or style her hair. If this keeps you and other family members out of the bathroom, why don't you try to buy her a vanity table with mirror? Vanity table can be a functional piece of furniture to her room. It provides a storage space for her make-up, jewelry or accessories. It is also a great addition to make her room look more elegant.

Old Fashioned Vanity

Old fashioned vanity is in vogue again today. Teenagers also love to have old-fashioned furniture or accessories in their room. If your teen girl loves this style, it is a good idea to get her an antique vanity table with mirror. A table with faded white paint and a single, round mirror will give an old look on the vanity. Make sure that you also find one with drawers to store her make-up and accessories. The table will look more elegant with wooden stool painted with the same color as the table.

Modern Vanity

If your daughter loves modern vanity than the antique one, then you can find one with a more modern design. To obtain the modern look, the mirror should be framed in a bold color with geometric shapes. Your daughter can make her own design if she wants a personal touch on the table. It is also a good idea to add mirror on the sides for multi-angle viewing.

Pain the Table with Her Favorite Color

If your daughter's room has been designed with particular color, try to find a vanity table with well-suited color. It is also nice to paint the table with a contrast color if she wants her room to be colorful. A room with blue walls will look contrast with an orange table. On the other hand, you can try a faded white paint if she wants her room to look tranquil. When designing her room, just let her choose her own color and express her style freely.

Choose a Table that Suits Her Needs

Besides acts as a decoration, a vanity table should also be functional. Try to find one that provides enough storage space for her make-up and accessories. It would be great to obtain a table with some drawers so that she can classify her stuff in different boxes. This way will help her find her make-up and accessories easily.

Quick Ideas In Choosing The Best Christmas Curtains   Shabby But Chic