Shopping is not only a necessity but it is also a fun jaunt when time allows. It is important for the shopper to realize that every time you enter into a store, years of marketing research has been invested to get you to overspend. This article lists several of the ways the experts have to "motivate" you into purchasing more than you need and overspending. Next time you go shopping, keep this in … [Read more...]

Bringing nature into the house just makes us feel good.  For the longest time, people have brought in green plants, flowering plants, Ficus trees, cactus, and even created little herb gardens in the window sill.  It isn't enough to just look out the window. Shaker and Mission furniture makes the very best of simple wood and this article shows a more rustic side of wood furnishings.  Wood stumps … [Read more...]

Bathroom mirrors are constantly under attach. They are spit on, spayed on, and fingered day and night.  From toothpaste to hair spray, your bathroom mirror  barely shows your reflection due to the dirty surface from bathroom occupants. To be sure you are seeing a true reflection, clean your mirror frequently. Here are some do's and don'ts of mirror cleaning. Do keep the items necessary to … [Read more...]

Porcelain is a great addition to the choices for bathroom vanity countertops. Marble and granite are beautiful but can be too costly for some homeowners. Porcelain is a great alternative because it is similar in appearance and feel. Additionally, porcelain is very durable, but, it does require some care. A porcelain countertop could crack or chip if heavy objects are dropped on it. Any porcelain … [Read more...]

Tempered glass is a wonderful glass that is designed to protect a person, should the glass break.  A counter top of tempered glass when broken will break into pieces with rounded, rather than sharp edges.  Even thought tempered glass is stronger than regular glass, it scratches easier and requires more tender loving care. Never use abrasive cleaners when cleaning a glass or tempered glass counter … [Read more...]

One of the best things about a copper bathtub is that it is practically maintenance-free.  The patina finish, however, must be protected from harsh chemicals so the copper tub will always look beautiful. Patinas are fired into the copper and is what gives the copper tub the weathered or aged appearance.  Using an abrasive cleaner could damage the patina. Here are some tips to keep your copper tub … [Read more...]

Cultured marble tubs are very luxurious and extravagant looking. Cultured marble isn't cut or carved from a marble slab, but is marble dust mixed with a resin and is then molded to the desired shape. There is a very durable gel coat that covers the finished tub which gives it the smooth, high gloss or satin shine. In order to maintain the intended surface, it is important to use the appropriate … [Read more...]

These glitter and snow pine cones are hot hot hot! Pottery Barn is selling them for a nice price, but you can have them for much less. This link gives great step-by-step instructions on how to make these amazing decorations yourself.  Below is a  supply list and condensed instructions on making these glitz and glamour decorations. Supplies needed: Pine cones, a variety of sizes is … [Read more...]