DIY: Framed Ferns

Pressing ferns [leaves/grasses]:

1. Choose fresh ferns with good color & all fronds intact.

2. Cut stems as long as possible.

3. Press ferns in between sheets of newspaper or lg magazine pages by placing fern or leaf flat on the newspaper/magazine page and carefully covering it with a few blank pages. Be sure that it is flattened and not overlapping. But really---little imperfections only add to the natural appeal.

4. Weight with a heavy book and allow to press for at least a week.

5. Carefully remove pages to check - you want the fern/leaf to be flattened. Trim the stem to fit your frame, if necessary. You can center one or arrange a collection.

6. Ready to frame. Floating frames work well, as you are basically sandwiching the leaf between the sheets of glass. Large poster type frames also work well, but you'll need to stick the leaf on a good quality paper before framing.

7. Hang and Enjoy!

Things I Love Today: Console Areas

Image via Coastal Living

I love a cool console area. I really want one in the corner of our living room but I think the space is too tight. Love the collection of pots underneath the carved table and the driftwood mirror is to die for.

Idea Gallery: Herb Window Box

I put up window boxes on our shed at first to just make it look nicer- but after thinking about it, it turned out to be a great place for my herbs and some veggies. This spot is very sunny so I planted green beans, greek cilantro, rosemary, parsley, and some marigolds for color. The best part is no bunnies munching on my crop and it looks really pretty!

Before and After- Master Bedroom

Before:

After(s):

It is amazing what accessories (pillows, throws, cushions), window treatments, a rug, and some wall decor can do!

In The Garden: Faux Stone Border Edge

So we dug up our flowerbeds and planted deer resistant plants (minus the hostas) and flowers in them (I did my research!) I found faux stone edging at Kmart on sale and I was really happy surprised by them- they are easy to install (they all link together) and I think it really looks nice (and will not destroy our lawn mower)!

Here is another view from the deck- check out my peonies. They make me so happy- I know I'm a nerd!

And here is the edging we did on the other side of the garden. Those are all lilies and they are ready to pop-can't wait to see them in full bloom!

Says It All: Long Weekend

Image via Coastal Living

This long holiday weekend I will be in the garden digging beds, weeding and deer/ rabbit proofing my flowers but I will be dreaming of relaxing in style like the picture above- maybe with a fruity cocktail instead of the tea! Love this outdoor setting- the unique umbrella and basket like chairs are anything but ordinary.

Idea Gallery: Spa-Like Bathroom

How to make your bathroom feel like a spa? (Use my parents new bathroom as a guide, Bravo!)

1. Use a great calming neutral like this light gray which looks so fresh with white and green. A big mistake is thinking that gray is dark and gloomy, that is why so many spas use gray- it is relaxing!

2. Use big, fluffy white towels and robes to treat yourself everyday.

3. Incorporate nature: ferns, plants and stones. I also love the collections of soaps and the antique asian print. Very Zen!

4. Simple wall decor adds to the tranquil feel. I love the pressed ferns in floating frames. Look for a future post with a pressing tutorial.