Feeling red

I'm a firm believer that colour provides us with certain benefits at certain times and  I take note when I find myself attracted to a certain colour.  My past loves have been black, green and purple.   All of a sudden I am hugely attracted tored  and I want it around me in my home.  This is a first for me.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionpHLM8jVeNhkqQGovznkqWQ681KMYGDlb0fHlwpjKtWfpCpmBKE4Aa22DTgE7-ct9BABjU27LLKd2351ao8r7-jKFL3xnAJHDStvdmlEWVaFTG19rSI8uyxhkRkM4HbTyyFiwGoInqGj/s1600/OB-red-accessories_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red accessories " border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionpHLM8jVeNhkqQGovznkqWQ681KMYGDlb0fHlwpjKtWfpCpmBKE4Aa22DTgE7-ct9BABjU27LLKd2351ao8r7-jKFL3xnAJHDStvdmlEWVaFTG19rSI8uyxhkRkM4HbTyyFiwGoInqGj/s1600/OB-red-accessories_01.JPG" title="Designing Home: Feeling red" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red accessories</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I catch myself looking at red things on Pinterest and Olioboard. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I want to hang up one of my red paintings.</div><div style="text-align: center;">  </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtc31Inj_2jyNHPpPMXj44cqpNOoufyqw43b8RX3po7SsNbeTlfI6eV7dgWnE1hvlJh9NrCEEvCiXyNsZ9WLNpN8bC95CrOd7uYo8iy-f5Pz_S1G7fMUg35pNLaoxKEVZJRIMUSOPzYN2s/s1600/DSCN8295_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" meaning red poppy art Margaret Ryall" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtc31Inj_2jyNHPpPMXj44cqpNOoufyqw43b8RX3po7SsNbeTlfI6eV7dgWnE1hvlJh9NrCEEvCiXyNsZ9WLNpN8bC95CrOd7uYo8iy-f5Pz_S1G7fMUg35pNLaoxKEVZJRIMUSOPzYN2s/s1600/DSCN8295_01.JPG" title="The power of red in design" width="295" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evoked, 2013, Margaret Ryall, encaustic </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> “Painters use red like spice.” — Derek Jarman.....  If so this is one hot painting.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4> Why red now?</h4> From yoga I know that red  is the color for the base or root chakra located at the base of the spine; this chakra allows us to be grounded and connected to universal energies.<br /><br />Red also affects us physically.  It is stimulating and boosts our physical energy levels, increases enthusiasm, action and confidence, and provides a sense of protection from anxiety and fear. Don't forget that red relates to physical desire in all its forms- sexual, appetite and cravings. Pretty powerful stuff. Who wouldn't want a dose of red around with all those benefits?<br /><br />I've written about red before so this must not be a new thing.  Check this  <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2012/12/a-little-red-year-round.html">post </a>.<br /><br />I must need a boost of red.  I'm listening.  How will it play out in my space?  <br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #f50505; font-size: 15px;"> Is red a part of your home decor?</span></b></div>

Feeling red

I'm a firm believer that colour provides us with certain benefits at certain times and  I take note when I find myself attracted to a ce...

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And more aqua

This must be aqua week! I am noticing it everywhere.  After writing a post yesterday about aqua, I opened one of the blogs I follow this morning to be greeted by a lovely room make -over by Kelly Porter of <a href="http://www.porterhousedesigns.com/colorsizzle/my-new-blue-room">Color Sizzle </a>and the walls are painted aqua. The accents are red.  I wanted to share this lively combination.  While it is too much colour for me, I know it will appeal to lots of my readers.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxY4zf_wWgnHxrnkK7aEbhNgZEHI0WW-OdEl9aesCjWg3Wrmb_L2EnrudWUIPGAOk7J6ViAO9IOo-0YZXTmb9Aj7qieeUuEP_xhoGKZd_JIUybTHIoP5bibcc5rnu1MqAbapqBEQr83T6j/s1600/f6b19b2099e0f3803959f6336b30f410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxY4zf_wWgnHxrnkK7aEbhNgZEHI0WW-OdEl9aesCjWg3Wrmb_L2EnrudWUIPGAOk7J6ViAO9IOo-0YZXTmb9Aj7qieeUuEP_xhoGKZd_JIUybTHIoP5bibcc5rnu1MqAbapqBEQr83T6j/s640/f6b19b2099e0f3803959f6336b30f410.jpg" width="488" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pillow and lamp love on my part!  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qCguQH5mF9Vyz6G8ztJYNB9r-TfrBVc56WQi6Sbo5MPxgTE4B9Q62EZXDQfyf3TS8BrluXf90lIRESIb6kGG2q-JxAgm1GtWGpxZ3Lm5kV8VCpoZqKbUQdsAg2b5YyhnSqpW39d0Jafw/s1600/6347f9ea2df9b74cc5eb16c8bb563ad0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qCguQH5mF9Vyz6G8ztJYNB9r-TfrBVc56WQi6Sbo5MPxgTE4B9Q62EZXDQfyf3TS8BrluXf90lIRESIb6kGG2q-JxAgm1GtWGpxZ3Lm5kV8VCpoZqKbUQdsAg2b5YyhnSqpW39d0Jafw/s400/6347f9ea2df9b74cc5eb16c8bb563ad0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://nitenitemommy.blogspot.ca/">source</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And another living room with the same colour scheme, but the colours are used in a very understated way. It is all about the intensity of the hues. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Which room would you be most comfortable in? </div>

And more aqua

This must be aqua week! I am noticing it everywhere.  After writing a post yesterday about aqua, I opened one of the blogs I follow this mor...

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A little red year round

Red  is a great accent colour anytime, but it seems to be even more inviting at Christmas.  All it takes is the merest hint to bring a room to life. It can be used in small accessories, window treatments or furniture.  In all can't be ignored. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjwQ3CT3kBbbxftWwQ28t31z_5Z82p5boUg_vcgjt_FJOcLmIBwiCe118rETti1yS5RV6yGdFx76_ZqzBrqnf-rtIPHQPGDJ0vfqAU1hrGnDFITQon7SGOTK_etJGvisjnU6RmCCIMSKV/s1600/279856564314353319_IpJyh49P_c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="accessories red " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjwQ3CT3kBbbxftWwQ28t31z_5Z82p5boUg_vcgjt_FJOcLmIBwiCe118rETti1yS5RV6yGdFx76_ZqzBrqnf-rtIPHQPGDJ0vfqAU1hrGnDFITQon7SGOTK_etJGvisjnU6RmCCIMSKV/s400/279856564314353319_IpJyh49P_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="318" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A splash of red always works</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.designinggal.com/2012/01/how-to-live-large-in-small-spaces.html">source</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What a difference a pillow can make.  Remember to have at least three hits of an accent colour around a room to create movement.   </div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrXX10UCOCrAvVa31BBLsXU8oh3KakkEqJf5AbRvsLjf4u_68KLBt6Su5zMAMMhttwbZgr2WDjg6hODCISULNryubMuXcrayTuUbSAwGWdq6-5ejyYvCPHdeGSRDx-IlqTTasMXWrH7x6/s1600/80290805826233524_ltMy2rA5_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red furniture with black " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrXX10UCOCrAvVa31BBLsXU8oh3KakkEqJf5AbRvsLjf4u_68KLBt6Su5zMAMMhttwbZgr2WDjg6hODCISULNryubMuXcrayTuUbSAwGWdq6-5ejyYvCPHdeGSRDx-IlqTTasMXWrH7x6/s400/80290805826233524_ltMy2rA5_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="303" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black and red are very dramatic</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.thelennoxx.com/category/browse-by-color/red/">source</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Red and black is always dramatic, and when your throw a bold pattern into the mix it is even more so.  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgE4a94ljDJtk0b8XXxjW_hPeBHuntkQxrwkoRGGJXBnadw9UOHRB9MaBElehATSdj0QjyjrfeQLCtD_YACqQX526Aj1_yKeb6zUUhyphenhyphen2mDeKVemFH7QmEWFfhTlhGDlMxqoreqBhhQjOvK/s1600/162481499026041444_QTNegmor_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red patterned bar stools accessories " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgE4a94ljDJtk0b8XXxjW_hPeBHuntkQxrwkoRGGJXBnadw9UOHRB9MaBElehATSdj0QjyjrfeQLCtD_YACqQX526Aj1_yKeb6zUUhyphenhyphen2mDeKVemFH7QmEWFfhTlhGDlMxqoreqBhhQjOvK/s400/162481499026041444_QTNegmor_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning patterned bar stools</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/kitchens/under-200-kitchen-design-ideas-from-the-pros/pictures/index.html?nl=HGI_020112_featlink3">source </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjwQ3CT3kBbbxftWwQ28t31z_5Z82p5boUg_vcgjt_FJOcLmIBwiCe118rETti1yS5RV6yGdFx76_ZqzBrqnf-rtIPHQPGDJ0vfqAU1hrGnDFITQon7SGOTK_etJGvisjnU6RmCCIMSKV/s1600/279856564314353319_IpJyh49P_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Red and gray is refreshing.  I especially like this crisp blue red with a white pattern. Three hits of colour is well displayed in this vignette. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnNg-lWUXaH-hipokkgqA4iz5BIFMEfoR_Ga-bQC2dgT9M2Ie1GMBxvab7wpTsO0bNppN2_uTGQy07kgEzGX5IbUknHE0xox1SB5w6yhhot4ZvkaSpxBkHDixpXLm7II4DrkHd-GCAPaV/s1600/1759287324369766_4OOLOqVU_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnNg-lWUXaH-hipokkgqA4iz5BIFMEfoR_Ga-bQC2dgT9M2Ie1GMBxvab7wpTsO0bNppN2_uTGQy07kgEzGX5IbUknHE0xox1SB5w6yhhot4ZvkaSpxBkHDixpXLm7II4DrkHd-GCAPaV/s400/1759287324369766_4OOLOqVU_c.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sprinkling of red </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nehomemag.com/business/s-b-long-interiors-inc">source</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Red paired with black and white patterned area rug is very eye catching.   What an interesting window treatment for more than one window set close together. Vertical stripes are so commanding.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrXX10UCOCrAvVa31BBLsXU8oh3KakkEqJf5AbRvsLjf4u_68KLBt6Su5zMAMMhttwbZgr2WDjg6hODCISULNryubMuXcrayTuUbSAwGWdq6-5ejyYvCPHdeGSRDx-IlqTTasMXWrH7x6/s1600/80290805826233524_ltMy2rA5_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_sB8rOWpv5ahFjbeRIA6oymOyb0zkaRcf1QdAVULNgO4Cherks_7b9OTs58g7F3_w1MNDHEliQp4t2pZtZJi3tDdYtCRJwPOCZrSO1y8Pp0-mAJWKjVum4_XEwe3E9VFfB8XKj5rwaRzh/s1600/173740498094139789_2Wpt1qMc_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red sofa black and white pillows" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_sB8rOWpv5ahFjbeRIA6oymOyb0zkaRcf1QdAVULNgO4Cherks_7b9OTs58g7F3_w1MNDHEliQp4t2pZtZJi3tDdYtCRJwPOCZrSO1y8Pp0-mAJWKjVum4_XEwe3E9VFfB8XKj5rwaRzh/s400/173740498094139789_2Wpt1qMc_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A littlte red year round" width="250" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who could ignore red with black and white?</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://greenorang.livejournal.com/86861.html#cutid1">source </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Bold black and white again with a red sofa.  Very commanding.  When you are hanging artwork on a striped wall it is best to keep the mats light and the images simple. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQlMxeFC_ftpGYI-UYHuzMIqnepo8KBMBoITjfnR3b2O3JDqIDrKBxJ_87zkBjGs0feQkwjizKxP22MjwjOkJgr2Am-RrhhT17go5n9gYp8DR7I0fya2IICcebHZkAJhEfYEtbuoiIrle/s1600/171277592050192213_FKtnBqUR_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red and white striped headboard" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQlMxeFC_ftpGYI-UYHuzMIqnepo8KBMBoITjfnR3b2O3JDqIDrKBxJ_87zkBjGs0feQkwjizKxP22MjwjOkJgr2Am-RrhhT17go5n9gYp8DR7I0fya2IICcebHZkAJhEfYEtbuoiIrle/s400/171277592050192213_FKtnBqUR_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red and white striped headboard</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://greenorang.livejournal.com/86861.html#cutid1">source </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A striking red striped headboard with charcoal and white.  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESy3z1teDWjzLx35QKdndf9xJwcQ4a-JQ4mGP6huRPRlZnqUQpY0MzmIcYjKjSQjbHpJbJBOohBYO6R_066RDdOTguCthxKsinHJycGWR5zIJRwZpMcecc5DxIkDGZwqrTBBkk4NgoSUg/s1600/168955423491044739_e0WuJgdt_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red console " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESy3z1teDWjzLx35QKdndf9xJwcQ4a-JQ4mGP6huRPRlZnqUQpY0MzmIcYjKjSQjbHpJbJBOohBYO6R_066RDdOTguCthxKsinHJycGWR5zIJRwZpMcecc5DxIkDGZwqrTBBkk4NgoSUg/s400/168955423491044739_e0WuJgdt_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A stunning red console </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/250512797992931312/">source</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Red with liberal amounts of neutral always works. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

A little red year round

Red  is a great accent colour anytime, but it seems to be even more inviting at Christmas.  All it takes is the merest hint to bring a room ...

Read more »

Wrap it up

Trying to be earth friendly is an ongoing battle especially at Christmas.   I hate the fact that all the pretty gift wrap ends up in the landfill because  it isn't recyclable.  paper gift  bags work for me and I always reuse  those I receive. I  also purchase fabric bags when I see them and hope the receiver  passes them along to another person. When the last of my gift wrap runs out (probably this year), I plan to use brown paper (Kraft Paper) which you can recycle.  The options for dressing it up are endless. Here's a few nifty ideas to get you thinking about the possibilities:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQPsAaZ1N4qKtya-WauOy-xMIAB9bcpnSOpwIauDDJIS5qYP8R-26nH6E1uxUuXedWsxYFtfLam25OSlHFem-gFcipiGg9m63PMRnNrls9PNHmD74LAprsbt0_RoT6Dn6HSJhO7BPfZOxG/s1600/38913984249965447_pP9gm4TY_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQPsAaZ1N4qKtya-WauOy-xMIAB9bcpnSOpwIauDDJIS5qYP8R-26nH6E1uxUuXedWsxYFtfLam25OSlHFem-gFcipiGg9m63PMRnNrls9PNHmD74LAprsbt0_RoT6Dn6HSJhO7BPfZOxG/s640/38913984249965447_pP9gm4TY_c.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>  Braided wine, a bit of greenery  and a pine cone.  What could be simpler than that?  Wrapping the twine around the package off center adds to the design element.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkGiqFF6jgkJwFTMWDDEO05w6DQptmukMdMt2JclmF0AecookKtzm5Ji5Nem3EDtB75qAkFDh5H9_KAxTVqKv_ECCOtYlHbdZhjOicJGOGhSooJZqg2tBoz1hxj54sJaoDh8p3XyZEA9x/s1600/81487074479177424_VNaA2V3s_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkGiqFF6jgkJwFTMWDDEO05w6DQptmukMdMt2JclmF0AecookKtzm5Ji5Nem3EDtB75qAkFDh5H9_KAxTVqKv_ECCOtYlHbdZhjOicJGOGhSooJZqg2tBoz1hxj54sJaoDh8p3XyZEA9x/s400/81487074479177424_VNaA2V3s_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> What a great way to share old photographs.  Copying them is so easy these days.   </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhD5qliK2yM6kBDKYpgj1KxR08-f86WynVo45hrbLxwKmbHiLkbbcicePVJYH_S88T_57hWhqlKoVaXdrL4pOtrUbzJmP-miY7FdNayzxNgn3ctZehgAW8F8MORyYLLmYsPimH_XPEL1Je/s1600/103090278939924055_hK0xH24r_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhD5qliK2yM6kBDKYpgj1KxR08-f86WynVo45hrbLxwKmbHiLkbbcicePVJYH_S88T_57hWhqlKoVaXdrL4pOtrUbzJmP-miY7FdNayzxNgn3ctZehgAW8F8MORyYLLmYsPimH_XPEL1Je/s400/103090278939924055_hK0xH24r_c.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><br />Love how the black satin ribbon looks with the green and the stamped gift tag.  The splash of cedar finishes the job.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtI-2GpYLh-dsxEB4t0g0exJMI5WI2PChwqsp_cyOcGjyZlye3dcVq8Ny4HwpbvPutkZds-tbyKo8YpBjZ-cZHwgKGbVR_VJrg1fyuX3SsNaAEK31cr0lTwTrE2Zz7d9EFMXsYvPM1nglc/s1600/193091902743148482_tGn6JbRJ_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtI-2GpYLh-dsxEB4t0g0exJMI5WI2PChwqsp_cyOcGjyZlye3dcVq8Ny4HwpbvPutkZds-tbyKo8YpBjZ-cZHwgKGbVR_VJrg1fyuX3SsNaAEK31cr0lTwTrE2Zz7d9EFMXsYvPM1nglc/s400/193091902743148482_tGn6JbRJ_c.jpg" width="376" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The name of the recipient becomes the major design element in this wrapping idea.  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMKT-D2kB4VHXqkmgCpzXz2u6cod5kMynhvIoieMPegC8YERm2MFPRhtY_5M77qPm1pBkwraZWcJl8phKBynqFTYwXsRtkMWHYf_aRPOANe4C_ql49CCO6vdqmAJY2C8IqdeVyBTDR9VoP/s1600/5559199509513464_kcswB5wI_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMKT-D2kB4VHXqkmgCpzXz2u6cod5kMynhvIoieMPegC8YERm2MFPRhtY_5M77qPm1pBkwraZWcJl8phKBynqFTYwXsRtkMWHYf_aRPOANe4C_ql49CCO6vdqmAJY2C8IqdeVyBTDR9VoP/s320/5559199509513464_kcswB5wI_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>  Have you seen the lace tape that is so popular now ? I've been on the look out but haven't found it yet.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFY9gWU6ER-Znj5e42ddU1UPhjSK3VN5iknWcDXUNYQ0YvUhTJzQlZx9JD716OKBHz3VDZZxbKERGrAJcv8McD-f6-n76hHN7PQY2Ert3TyYVHFBV78MB9OLrV8yPNMgdv7lNtfyo9F36/s1600/188095721906585463_dg5Xm1sI_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFY9gWU6ER-Znj5e42ddU1UPhjSK3VN5iknWcDXUNYQ0YvUhTJzQlZx9JD716OKBHz3VDZZxbKERGrAJcv8McD-f6-n76hHN7PQY2Ert3TyYVHFBV78MB9OLrV8yPNMgdv7lNtfyo9F36/s400/188095721906585463_dg5Xm1sI_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFY9gWU6ER-Znj5e42ddU1UPhjSK3VN5iknWcDXUNYQ0YvUhTJzQlZx9JD716OKBHz3VDZZxbKERGrAJcv8McD-f6-n76hHN7PQY2Ert3TyYVHFBV78MB9OLrV8yPNMgdv7lNtfyo9F36/s1600/188095721906585463_dg5Xm1sI_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Cutting snowflakes from different coloured paper and adding them to the plain paper works to add a spalsh of colour.  Simple butcher twine manages to look elegant with this pairing. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFY9gWU6ER-Znj5e42ddU1UPhjSK3VN5iknWcDXUNYQ0YvUhTJzQlZx9JD716OKBHz3VDZZxbKERGrAJcv8McD-f6-n76hHN7PQY2Ert3TyYVHFBV78MB9OLrV8yPNMgdv7lNtfyo9F36/s1600/188095721906585463_dg5Xm1sI_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjazow8vWUMUkknRcFDF2ET9rVBpX97WrOlInW2amglYuv3bbQgNjn_xjKiVkdrUmTWfDm_KQXFV6Yb5XMYaQLXlkUmiKjrYBXcNh-0kSfoPXBdai1WcL_QZAMEzyhAejSyU2_5TkGgXDb0/s1600/112871534380616032_kZNh7f2L_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjazow8vWUMUkknRcFDF2ET9rVBpX97WrOlInW2amglYuv3bbQgNjn_xjKiVkdrUmTWfDm_KQXFV6Yb5XMYaQLXlkUmiKjrYBXcNh-0kSfoPXBdai1WcL_QZAMEzyhAejSyU2_5TkGgXDb0/s400/112871534380616032_kZNh7f2L_c.jpg" width="266" /></a></div> Who know the pages from old books could make such pretty wrapping material.  You can sew paper to make bags or else glue the edges together.  Adding red string makes it all so festive. You can do so much with so little!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FXB20lKkpI9HWF1oAgP1Ok55OujYEPiG8ysr6sMaL1kRBX9PI4h33KmV5LLOMl7AUTp2f33sVJB5SNU0BG8r3Brn7j7Njuqcyv6U-lxnMWcVTVgi6NqsorAhjdC2odu1IFLgRVgv3PeS/s1600/95560823312791833_dtCHt0F8_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FXB20lKkpI9HWF1oAgP1Ok55OujYEPiG8ysr6sMaL1kRBX9PI4h33KmV5LLOMl7AUTp2f33sVJB5SNU0BG8r3Brn7j7Njuqcyv6U-lxnMWcVTVgi6NqsorAhjdC2odu1IFLgRVgv3PeS/s400/95560823312791833_dtCHt0F8_c.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVymY5V8D0VwsHLPRU3vUbg-ha2modlgoUPBFCsu5PjcfrKs_9IPQ_KXkwbNYZ081XDxR59mSjUQ2YZb_qL2o_1Wc2nZXl6Dvje-mwP6j4SV2w79DpqYVaHr9Xj3Rn_7KmZlOxhSG0R_ik/s1600/226165212506502192_f7oQfZA0_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> I love this one with red yarn and kraft sticks with holes drilled in them. Of course it is the repetition that makes the design. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVymY5V8D0VwsHLPRU3vUbg-ha2modlgoUPBFCsu5PjcfrKs_9IPQ_KXkwbNYZ081XDxR59mSjUQ2YZb_qL2o_1Wc2nZXl6Dvje-mwP6j4SV2w79DpqYVaHr9Xj3Rn_7KmZlOxhSG0R_ik/s1600/226165212506502192_f7oQfZA0_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVymY5V8D0VwsHLPRU3vUbg-ha2modlgoUPBFCsu5PjcfrKs_9IPQ_KXkwbNYZ081XDxR59mSjUQ2YZb_qL2o_1Wc2nZXl6Dvje-mwP6j4SV2w79DpqYVaHr9Xj3Rn_7KmZlOxhSG0R_ik/s400/226165212506502192_f7oQfZA0_c.jpg" width="266" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> Love this look with red raffia ribbon and strips of black and white printed paper.  What you add between the raffia is up to one's imagination. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmlNtLLbyKrbu64__T4Jud_1i8VPehWq7uuSh9wBDhChjEuqaOfcc-sg2qBg_JRgv3OGkILZu2H2A6a04L4iSsTZdEz8v5VLieh0kxO9Ba5WPq_SJE0x90AVdXQu6RObqdj3LhpD4XNKt/s1600/214765475950755020_jSPRTG8i_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmlNtLLbyKrbu64__T4Jud_1i8VPehWq7uuSh9wBDhChjEuqaOfcc-sg2qBg_JRgv3OGkILZu2H2A6a04L4iSsTZdEz8v5VLieh0kxO9Ba5WPq_SJE0x90AVdXQu6RObqdj3LhpD4XNKt/s400/214765475950755020_jSPRTG8i_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Coloured tape and a button on a string.  How colourful and simple? </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwrtL9d-zLReMtqLXBx_qRQYKhc40z5_o33T-uYw6q1MqCcBSQBBn4JNW0RE1WfRCBJhg2h6M58KvgDjYJZ0MvD7DsNOddGuCUS27XhzsG2GF4LIwbbU2yCiKHmkancYqASeuJDD-FFCH3/s1600/221802350367479370_OL2t3APF_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwrtL9d-zLReMtqLXBx_qRQYKhc40z5_o33T-uYw6q1MqCcBSQBBn4JNW0RE1WfRCBJhg2h6M58KvgDjYJZ0MvD7DsNOddGuCUS27XhzsG2GF4LIwbbU2yCiKHmkancYqASeuJDD-FFCH3/s400/221802350367479370_OL2t3APF_c.jpg" width="301" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> To get this effect I would use scraps of tulle or netting  and then over tie it with twine. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wondering what to do with that left over burlap?  Wonder no more.  I made burlap bags years ago to package driftwood Santa's I hand painted.   When you ravel out the tops and include a colourful yarn for tying , it looks very festive.  Burlap will also take a simple stencil using  paint. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDw8FanK44BY8pX5VVVNqp4pnyPhWDl8rYG5XtlNuAj-rAMzmoRKdzZYi1Nh9sRQaop9ZunHohjViLPEUSqKwrGO7tXeCvQqpM-Y4o-wnujfeLuJ1yB-zz_xj2la0lj1shbmWwFuI5doV/s1600/101119954105132567_xnnsaaw1_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDw8FanK44BY8pX5VVVNqp4pnyPhWDl8rYG5XtlNuAj-rAMzmoRKdzZYi1Nh9sRQaop9ZunHohjViLPEUSqKwrGO7tXeCvQqpM-Y4o-wnujfeLuJ1yB-zz_xj2la0lj1shbmWwFuI5doV/s400/101119954105132567_xnnsaaw1_c.jpg" width="265" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQVZlIoD4L-PFJiArl-nGXmesHHiOxXfxHDZJRFpJMrJWZ4WyYFTEIP60OqZQCI1rYcVEpdICQtOVDfiV85ZhIPs6YtQyoSn8jYVi9qJuRKtegd59LJb985_KrovoqH9VHC7tyqkrXucO/s1600/272467846177136631_nHgcisFF_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQVZlIoD4L-PFJiArl-nGXmesHHiOxXfxHDZJRFpJMrJWZ4WyYFTEIP60OqZQCI1rYcVEpdICQtOVDfiV85ZhIPs6YtQyoSn8jYVi9qJuRKtegd59LJb985_KrovoqH9VHC7tyqkrXucO/s1600/272467846177136631_nHgcisFF_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQVZlIoD4L-PFJiArl-nGXmesHHiOxXfxHDZJRFpJMrJWZ4WyYFTEIP60OqZQCI1rYcVEpdICQtOVDfiV85ZhIPs6YtQyoSn8jYVi9qJuRKtegd59LJb985_KrovoqH9VHC7tyqkrXucO/s400/272467846177136631_nHgcisFF_c.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><br /> Over wrapping newsprint with burlap and adding a lovely gift tag and pine cones looks very finished and inviting. <br /><br /><b> Find the links to these and lots of other gift wrapping ideas on my Pinterest  <a href="http://pinterest.com/mryall/gift-giving/">gift giving page</a>. </b><br /><br />

Wrap it up

Trying to be earth friendly is an ongoing battle especially at Christmas.   I hate the fact that all the pretty gift wrap ends up in the lan...

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Christmas decorating: If you like red

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXy0qdhnRwcT-LxwxlH0hUYSKNmLRCu101KcDHb4MeDZl_-IneFmNBenzAzpXEgA3JxiqZK_CGztCbZ2lFpebPP20M1TGYbd1rX6fLyFlhrWjvTVGv47PP31hdh93DwKIpqVY-ljajZqKI/s1600/171277592048081265_J76S2oFS_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The traditional colour of the Christmas season is red. I like the simplicity of using just one colour in repetition to create sleek designs. It's the repetition of shape that gives them that wow factor. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://Christmas stir stick snowflakes .jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas stir stick red snowflakes" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXy0qdhnRwcT-LxwxlH0hUYSKNmLRCu101KcDHb4MeDZl_-IneFmNBenzAzpXEgA3JxiqZK_CGztCbZ2lFpebPP20M1TGYbd1rX6fLyFlhrWjvTVGv47PP31hdh93DwKIpqVY-ljajZqKI/s400/171277592048081265_J76S2oFS_b.jpg" title="Christmas decorating: If you like red" width="300" /> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/christmas/start=152">Houzz</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">How simple can it get?  These snowflake designs are made out of craft sticks glued and spray painted.  They look smashing with this white chair and light coloured walls.  There's always positives  when you choose a neutral colour scheme! This would not look half as interesting on a darker wall. I think I would also have red candles. </div><div style="text-align: center;">  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdRX-1SI7zxY4rzw0Ux5x_ZuxU2F2uqDX9EurA0PBzFxB6oK05uiAfDHca2uhs3nEhf_HIAeIHprQZWN470UnP_7j_MVo6Jn83Edg8MJSmq4KtT0zVAlcKs_fBNCnLW-ntp7xTmfq7Zmx/s1600/171277592048043330_QIqIJICC_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas centerpiece with red berries" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdRX-1SI7zxY4rzw0Ux5x_ZuxU2F2uqDX9EurA0PBzFxB6oK05uiAfDHca2uhs3nEhf_HIAeIHprQZWN470UnP_7j_MVo6Jn83Edg8MJSmq4KtT0zVAlcKs_fBNCnLW-ntp7xTmfq7Zmx/s400/171277592048043330_QIqIJICC_b.jpg" title="Christmas decorating: If you like red" width="265" /></a><a href="http://33shadesofgreen.blogspot.com/"> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://33shadesofgreen.blogspot.com/">33 Shades of Green </a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div> Clear vases can be filled with all variety of berries covered in water and then float candles on the top.  So simple.  Having at least three of varying heights makes the arrangement interesting.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4f1iAqj59QtfujFvUFdGi42tqzGIbYJ8G1vhbHXWJamcW7MoH1oqVsSVcsDbfYj9raq-85OIE4k4Hi0ZsRvWx1QlSh0jYirVEzAa3JSjyRcCbOvFxNY3NhRpK3PktDrgBqjk1R30FDWJ/s1600/171277592048043388_nEqYBU6G_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjKC1lOR4FQPRtoohyphenhyphenjWLbJXgYwtm3HKqg2Hx3lDuuyqgnrWGBsJX6JSERIrgswUkNvXOhgG5XreoRG6uxfMkDice6jT_JyQdkU3c4y9CbLjvS4I2rjzKAhULcJZ-e9eNLuL_GqolLFvxT/s1600/171277592048051294_xvGNywMt_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Centerpiece with amaryllis and cranberries" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjKC1lOR4FQPRtoohyphenhyphenjWLbJXgYwtm3HKqg2Hx3lDuuyqgnrWGBsJX6JSERIrgswUkNvXOhgG5XreoRG6uxfMkDice6jT_JyQdkU3c4y9CbLjvS4I2rjzKAhULcJZ-e9eNLuL_GqolLFvxT/s320/171277592048051294_xvGNywMt_b.jpg" title="Christmas Decorating: If you like red" width="320" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/christmas/indoor-decorating/simple-christmas-centerpieces/"> BHG</a></span></div><br /> Here's a variation on the idea above. Add cranberries to the bottom and then water and add an amaryllis.  Invest in two artificial ones and you can re-use each year.  I've gotten mileage out of mine I purchased at Michael's. I'd skip the ribbon, but that is a personal preference; I'm not a gal for visual clutter.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6k8bsHqIesnweFoc2ZIFBD2hvfEgD1o2hqCyqSY_ajoOGa-XfhkAM0VkshHrsJG3K9W-rKrvKX2KcZGO4dpB9L_a4XYHqSQLyoXxEdRB_ngowxs5UOAMQxrCHSRARgAjRLv3crJGUtSUE/s1600/171277592048044990_aZhMiN6h_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="red Christmas trees and reindeer" border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6k8bsHqIesnweFoc2ZIFBD2hvfEgD1o2hqCyqSY_ajoOGa-XfhkAM0VkshHrsJG3K9W-rKrvKX2KcZGO4dpB9L_a4XYHqSQLyoXxEdRB_ngowxs5UOAMQxrCHSRARgAjRLv3crJGUtSUE/s400/171277592048044990_aZhMiN6h_b.jpg" title="Christmas Decorating: If you like red" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.trendytree.com/image-gallery/mantels"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Trendy Tree</span></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">The sleight is the focal point in this display, the reindeer add visual interest and energy, and the trees add strength.  The leaves soften the whole look.  This is so effective against the white. </span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipuHw5WyF13Lk_zKw3onuPXBKlz_-8-ZEAMx5kzxwHDYEwszF9HzAQ1NLjQv2u9DFi85q84Uwqs23RsDFymOp7Ci7SduP2RuvBy3qOGCut3_sPAcC9_v3FqGoUIY1ewtZUoB3MY5fsXsN1/s1600/171277592048084685_8fG8Isih_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipuHw5WyF13Lk_zKw3onuPXBKlz_-8-ZEAMx5kzxwHDYEwszF9HzAQ1NLjQv2u9DFi85q84Uwqs23RsDFymOp7Ci7SduP2RuvBy3qOGCut3_sPAcC9_v3FqGoUIY1ewtZUoB3MY5fsXsN1/s400/171277592048084685_8fG8Isih_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Trendy Tree </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another take on using red trees,  this time with "sparkle pods" garland giving lots of energy to the strong verticals the trees provide. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPXmtf7rB0AxtcnRGWJmqB6b8z17LsWRdidE2rhYDhMsl8-5qIuty0PhZ7e5Evo07cZZ5YlM8l4WdRwM2vDwAxd6Ux1OTu8rgMIAmtXYaDYMK5mSvaBKr_gRVQU-_GMs69iLdXdJF_L7l/s1600/171277592048044993_61i8GKAl_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas container with candycanes and silver branches" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPXmtf7rB0AxtcnRGWJmqB6b8z17LsWRdidE2rhYDhMsl8-5qIuty0PhZ7e5Evo07cZZ5YlM8l4WdRwM2vDwAxd6Ux1OTu8rgMIAmtXYaDYMK5mSvaBKr_gRVQU-_GMs69iLdXdJF_L7l/s400/171277592048044993_61i8GKAl_b.jpg" title="Christmas Decorating: If you like red" width="338" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://yournestdesign.blogspot.com/2010/11/christmas-is-coming-part-i.html"> Your Nest Design</a></span></div><br />You often see large candy canes from plastic or glass, but what do you do with them to make an interesting display?  This is a simple idea easily put together from the dollar store.  The white vase is the necessary part. It has interesting details and height and is the prefect sophisticated element to add oomph to this design. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLi6AcsGIG_YAp3aHcmyY8VhrnPMlyTN5ZTtMFZtxU708B3aoMmIUVH6mUeXFjKDmbqHjwvKOGipcNmu3whlUYW3r648EnGFnIRwKGPV9DHV7JHsbBzaY92ukz5-TXEVsQ4JcGdyWlz4pt/s1600/171277592048045496_KC9PADir_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipt82hvYlDoT6FCoLki6nJbw-78oB_JjacawrsAwZw3EHXIclzXxfbXUI7FyWsiDIuXvnBCsoWwPmQfO8hpD1HiAkQ8dinmKxQ58x6SnIwJceOt4smw44ehtEm2YPMHKdh7pnc_oZS-aT6/s1600/171277592048075951_7qpG6uGs_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas centerpiece red flowers berries " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipt82hvYlDoT6FCoLki6nJbw-78oB_JjacawrsAwZw3EHXIclzXxfbXUI7FyWsiDIuXvnBCsoWwPmQfO8hpD1HiAkQ8dinmKxQ58x6SnIwJceOt4smw44ehtEm2YPMHKdh7pnc_oZS-aT6/s400/171277592048075951_7qpG6uGs_b.jpg" title="Christmas decorating: If you like red" width="314" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://houseandhome.com/design/photo-gallery-christmas-decorating?page=29">House and Home</a></span></div><br />Here's another table centerpiece built on one colour and repetition.  Two shapes always makes it more interesting- roses and berries. Carnations would be a more cost effective substitute.  <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglOAweMPYr2C4yRkA6Mv7YioxonIUWoUX-GF8x5aixgoi76IAuOhLfLzBligN427MtQ04JmvnKKjoGTCwXzOMNAIq0jSoG5SBE0IkNhk5pKi5SHh20rR4Sn5C_L2k6XXOlgGSBbRKts1du/s1600/171277592048029927_VhOM3ITT_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglOAweMPYr2C4yRkA6Mv7YioxonIUWoUX-GF8x5aixgoi76IAuOhLfLzBligN427MtQ04JmvnKKjoGTCwXzOMNAIq0jSoG5SBE0IkNhk5pKi5SHh20rR4Sn5C_L2k6XXOlgGSBbRKts1du/s400/171277592048029927_VhOM3ITT_b.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> BHG</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ornaments, the larger the better, provide a striking look when hung from a drapery rod with sheer ribbon.  Alternate satin, shiny and sparkly. </div>

Christmas decorating: If you like red

The traditional colour of the Christmas season is red. I like the simplicity of using just one colour in repetition to create sleek designs....

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Red makes the heart sing

 We all have colours we are attracted to or not so fond of.  Sometimes we like colours in one application and not in another.  That is the fate of red in my life.  I love splashes of red in clothing  and textiles, but it is  never a colour that pops into my head  when I think about colours I love for walls or furniture. Red is so difficult to ignore because of its warmth and saturation, it doesn't fit with my need for calmness and relaxation in my home. While there's no red where I live, I've developed colour schemes around it for clients. There's nothing like it for that pop of excitement.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAkq2cjNoCotoppbN8L4vwvLBXkYuTKV0n6q-ayNr8sjh86UdYL_EAnt3EscEe4bQ-ZmqtyD2vMmYg9PE6s5sJnnIkfZnkxNjIdiMiPA7-I4O4SQdwuNxhgib28EiS7lmOL53PvZIu5gD/s1600/bhg100176484.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAkq2cjNoCotoppbN8L4vwvLBXkYuTKV0n6q-ayNr8sjh86UdYL_EAnt3EscEe4bQ-ZmqtyD2vMmYg9PE6s5sJnnIkfZnkxNjIdiMiPA7-I4O4SQdwuNxhgib28EiS7lmOL53PvZIu5gD/s640/bhg100176484.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/color/paint/red-home-decorating-ideas/?page=10">Better Homes and Gardens</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Live on the wild side! Bedding is a great place to push the colour envelope. If you tire of your moment of adventure, it can be rectified without too much cost.  If the bold stripes you loved end up being too much to wake up to every morning, consider recycling the sheets into pillow covers, a cloth bag, a table runner etc.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfG8h2H3ilikB6M0I_aRkf1_PLUq6t3DTOZBq8Bgmjy2Gg8VQhCHfvUJ0jhEyWjacJH89BVpB2RN3tvEYRjmuxKCkhd4lSBPymVAuLS4c1RCfpy3jjeMpZTW4O90fviCxIB6LUZ-jvrA6/s1600/red9-de-90705205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfG8h2H3ilikB6M0I_aRkf1_PLUq6t3DTOZBq8Bgmjy2Gg8VQhCHfvUJ0jhEyWjacJH89BVpB2RN3tvEYRjmuxKCkhd4lSBPymVAuLS4c1RCfpy3jjeMpZTW4O90fviCxIB6LUZ-jvrA6/s640/red9-de-90705205.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/homes/red-decorating-0209">Country Living </a><br /><br /> Red makes a fantastic accent colour that can often be linked together with painted furniture, cushions, red patterned draperies, lamps, etc.  I've noticed red with lighter blues in design sources lately. It makes an interesting combination.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLxzRICeoLLmQ48svNYDXcC28s6Fl7oITx1BWNy7UCjD18PzBW6CHxjy_cPtk5phPIpcBASsiXBrDuLWCXbUCo-ZnQciB4bM9YnN0INGeweYf_tCOG07P2XpM_7PiZ-4_ukabMyS1dHJs/s1600/BHG100181091.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLxzRICeoLLmQ48svNYDXcC28s6Fl7oITx1BWNy7UCjD18PzBW6CHxjy_cPtk5phPIpcBASsiXBrDuLWCXbUCo-ZnQciB4bM9YnN0INGeweYf_tCOG07P2XpM_7PiZ-4_ukabMyS1dHJs/s640/BHG100181091.jpg" width="480" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/color/paint/red-home-decorating-ideas/">Better Homes and Gardens </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is another interesting combination with red- more green than blue. The use of  beige calms the overall feeling of the room. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/70480/Modern-and-Colour-make-a-statement--modern-kitchen-toronto"><img alt="Modern and Colour make a statement! modern kitchen" border="0" height="752" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/70480_0_8-5109-modern-kitchen.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/kitchen" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/9498/Isabel-Beattie--K-Cabinets-HamiltonOakville" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Isabel Beattie @ K Cabinets Hamilton/Oakville</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">If you don't want to commit to four red walls, red makes a splashy accent statement.  Look for some aspect of your room that you want to emphasize, and go for it.  The sparing use of red in this design  is a good example of this principle in action. </div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/71128/Entry-with-tile-floors--board-formed-concrete-and-red-door-modern-entry-portland"><img alt="Entry with tile floors, board formed concrete and red door modern entry" border="0" height="625" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/71128_0_8-6116-modern-entry.jpg" width="500" /></a><small> </small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/entry" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/9598/Giulietti-Schouten-Architects" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Giulietti Schouten Architects</a></small></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAkq2cjNoCotoppbN8L4vwvLBXkYuTKV0n6q-ayNr8sjh86UdYL_EAnt3EscEe4bQ-ZmqtyD2vMmYg9PE6s5sJnnIkfZnkxNjIdiMiPA7-I4O4SQdwuNxhgib28EiS7lmOL53PvZIu5gD/s1600/bhg100176484.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAkq2cjNoCotoppbN8L4vwvLBXkYuTKV0n6q-ayNr8sjh86UdYL_EAnt3EscEe4bQ-ZmqtyD2vMmYg9PE6s5sJnnIkfZnkxNjIdiMiPA7-I4O4SQdwuNxhgib28EiS7lmOL53PvZIu5gD/s1600/bhg100176484.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div> <span style="font-size: small;">Red doors are always popular and when you open a door into a space it works to repeat the colour inside as you can see above.  The red plate connects with the door colour and the circular shape connects with the mirror in the bathroom - nice visual flow. </span><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/40119/Michelle-Salz-Smith-modern-bedroom-other-metros"><img alt="Michelle Salz-Smith modern bedroom" border="0" height="666" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/40119_0_8-9926-modern-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><small>                                                         <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/4412/Michelle-SalzSmith-ASID-CID--Studio-Surface" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Michelle Salz-Smith, ASID, CID @ Studio Surface</a></small><br /><br /><small> </small><span style="font-size: small;">I'm sure the art work was the inspiration for the use of this soft coral red.  </span>The design follows the principle of moving a colour around the room in varying proportions to create good visual flow. <br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/77370/Modern-White-Kitchen-2-by-Paris-Kitchens-modern-kitchen-toronto"><img alt="Modern White Kitchen 2 by Paris Kitchens modern kitchen" border="0" height="351" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/77370_0_8-5652-modern-kitchen.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/kitchen" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">modern kitchen design</a> by <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/photographer/toronto" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">toronto photographer</a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/10023/Brandon-Barr" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Brandon Barré</a></small><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;"> Red is always a knock out look with lots of white and a splash of black. High contrast does it every time.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">If you want to paint a whole room red but you're afraid to dive into four large walls in a bedroom or kitchen, consider using it in transition spaces like a porch or in a bathroom.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><small> </small><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYMlctfaL6l0TmK9eKlPkYO2IqqmokhwcFRA8VpXXqe3SD2469CbT6VuPHufx4hCKj-9GU8TfUZ68_Ys5ft6-lEIYRDO_dKRd1BkhaGv8Gn9t1d-79dprgYMNNqE5uUShhzprUcdfbLH7T/s1600/ravine-residence-red-bathroom-design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYMlctfaL6l0TmK9eKlPkYO2IqqmokhwcFRA8VpXXqe3SD2469CbT6VuPHufx4hCKj-9GU8TfUZ68_Ys5ft6-lEIYRDO_dKRd1BkhaGv8Gn9t1d-79dprgYMNNqE5uUShhzprUcdfbLH7T/s640/ravine-residence-red-bathroom-design.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><a href="http://inhometrend.com/interior-design-of-ravine-residence-by-cindy-rendely-architect">source</a><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"> But some people just go for it! </span><span style="font-size: small;">This is  the ultimate commitment to red.  The owners won't be changing their  mind about this room anytime soon.</span><br /><br /></div>

Red makes the heart sing

 We all have colours we are attracted to or not so fond of.  Sometimes we like colours in one application and not in another.  That is the f...

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