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Avoiding DIY Mishaps

We've all been there. A bad DIY project can make a mess of your space, not to mention your life. A bit of knowledge and proper planning can help you stay on track with your project, and your budget!

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Budget Decorating Spotlight10

The Shops at Target Bring Privet House Home

Tuesday May 15, 2012

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

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Photo © Target

Casting Call: HGTV’s Property Brothers Wants You!

Thursday May 10, 2012

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.

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Photo © HGTV

Handmade Mother’s Day Gift Idea from ScotchBlue

Tuesday May 8, 2012

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!

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Photo © ScotchBlue

Free Paint This Saturday at Ace Hardware

Friday May 4, 2012

Here's another reason to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Ace Hardware is once again offering a free quart of their Clark + Kensington Paint Plus Primer in One paint this Saturday, May 5th.

Free quarts are limited to availability (Ace estimates 40 free cans per store) and you must have the coupon to receive the free quart. See the coupon for more details.

To find an Ace Hardware near you, seach their store locator. Need ideas for that free quart of paint? Visit my DIY page.

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Photo © Ace Hardware

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