Personally, I think color is always in style, but springtime seems to be when bold colors begin hitting the shelves, and this trend will continue throughout summer.

The recent House Beautiful designer secrets that I featured really got me thinking, especially the one about how we should consider how we look in a color before we choose a room's color scheme.

Designers and decorators, along with scientist and many others in notable fields, have long known that color can and does impact mood. We also know that a person's personality and physical characteristics tend to blossom in some colors and wilt in others. (Remember the popular what-season-are-you fad in the 1970s and 80s???) So it certainly pays to do a little background color check - along with a bit of introspection - before you paint your entire room mint green.

To help you out, I've put together some information on the personality of color and how certain colors will fit in with your unique personality, as well as some great tips for choosing interior colors.

The Personality of Color
Top Tips for Choosing Color

Connect with Budget Decorating
Facebook | Twitter | RSS | Pinterest

Photo © Mark Lund/Getty

Target has now made it possible for you to shop Privet House, a charming Connecticut shop that features antiques, vintage finds and decorative wares from the world, from the convenience of your own home.

On May 6, Target unveiled their newest online shopping experience called The Shops at Target. Not only do the shops include unique home wares from Privet House but also other fun goodies from places like The Webster in Miami and Polka Dot Bakery in Boston.

Most items at The Shops at Target are only available online, and all are only available for a limited time.

How to Shop & Save at Target

Connect with Budget Decorating
Facebook | Twitter | RSS | Pinterest

Photo © Target

If you are shopping for a fixer-upper and live in the Austin, TX, area, this may be your casting call! Property Brothers is looking for outgoing, energetic and fun-loving homeowners that are willing to take on the challenge of renovating their new home along with the show's hosts, Drew and Jonathan Scott.

If you are chosen for the show, Property Brothers will provide the remodeling design, construction and a financial contribution towards the costs of your renovation. To apply for the show and for more information, visit HGTV.

Want to know how to create show-stopping style in your own home? See my article.

Connect with Budget Decorating
Facebook | Twitter | RSS | Pinterest

Photo © HGTV

ScotchBlue sent me this fun tutorial on how to paint a clay pot and I thought it would make a fun craft or handmade gift for Mother's Day. Use ScotchBlue's idea or get creative with your own design. This craft is so simple, you could easily let little hands help. Pop in a pretty flower and voila! Mother's Day is done. Of course, a heartfelt note to Mom attached to this gift wouldn't hurt. (Maybe something along the lines of, "Thanks for helping me bloom!")

Materials
A clean, dry clay pot
3/4-inch 3M Scotch Blue Painter's Tape #2090 Original Multi-Surface
3 jars of paint, any colors
1 jar of clear glaze
Paint brushes
Paper towels
Stencil (optional)

1. Wipe the clay pot with a damp sponge or paper towel and let it dry.

2. After the pot is dry, use a sponge or a paintbrush to cover the entire pot with the base color. Using a sponge will give the pot a rustic base, while a paintbrush will provide a smoother look. Let the paint dry overnight.

3. After the pot is completely dry, use ScotchBlue Painter's Tape to mark off diagonal lines in any design and pattern you desire. Make sure the tape is pressed firmly so it contours to the pot. This will ensure clean, sharp lines when the tape is removed.

4. Use a paintbrush to apply an even layer of paint, placing whatever colors you desire in each section between the tapelines. Continue to paint your pot until each shape is filled in.

5. Allow to dry fully, then remove the tape slowly at an angle. This will ensure clean, sharp paint lines.

5. Use ScotchBlue Painter's Tape to attach a stencil to the outside of the painted pot. Use a brush or sponge to fill in the stencil. Slowly remove the stencil and allow the paint to dry.

6. Finish your painted pot with a clear glaze. This will protect the paint from chipping or dulling in the future.



Check out this link for another fun DIY idea from ScotchBlue. This project would also make a unique Mother's Day gift!

Connect with Budget Decorating
Facebook | Twitter | RSS | Pinterest

Photo © ScotchBlue