Interesting Possibilities

<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The idea of adding interest to your home while staying within a budget appeals to most people, me included.  I have to admit that many of the smaller DIY projects you find through a general web search are best ignored.  Every now and them you find one with real possibilities.  Everyone has those clear CD jewel cases lying around.  Rather than throwing them away why not re- use them? Here are a number of options that may appeal to your DIY instincts.</span></span><br /><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmy0_Gedd1sr8JmUy2Rr_kN8gUgS8NCDIDCUXOJ1r1_vcWYM2qEq1a-EdvKxmYksv1yebED7xvEG0Hd6vn5L1qw5cKHiTuDmzHrKU1TAErMnDpydo9rUtaOzpQFhtoKoF-K8yMjsY4-l-I/s1600/serenity+in+design+cd-photos-l.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmy0_Gedd1sr8JmUy2Rr_kN8gUgS8NCDIDCUXOJ1r1_vcWYM2qEq1a-EdvKxmYksv1yebED7xvEG0Hd6vn5L1qw5cKHiTuDmzHrKU1TAErMnDpydo9rUtaOzpQFhtoKoF-K8yMjsY4-l-I/s320/serenity+in+design+cd-photos-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></span> </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Doesn't this arrangement look great?  I love everything about objects displayed in a grid format.  This idea was on Serenity in Design  blog and the  possibilities are endless when you start to think about what you could put in these simple cases-  photographs, scrapbook paper, origami paper, kids art, small watercolours, quotes, etc. </span></div><h1 style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbP-f4IS5qYQeBS4dpz7RudBGtAxzAR3fNuvPSnhwRQFHkrjII34kmcYj0KFPuoBPtGxZquTtWP9cp3B9aqcy2_HX5WJ26DHUCMqN6nE-GbolpQSM1vxJDwDmV6PLZI4P4sLz_-S_1Rp0/s400/cd-frames-on-wall.jpg" width="400" /></span></h1><h1 style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.rikkihibbert.co.za/2010/10/04/diy-recycled-cd-cover-frames/">Rikki's Blog</a> gives detailed instruction about how to proceed.</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span></b></h1><h1 style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> <b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Murals ...</span></b>Y<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">ou can use an enlarged photo and cut it into separate parts to fit into  the cases and then rearrange it in regular format or present randomly for a more interesting statement.  Viewers will be busy trying to fit it together. </span></span></h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbCOcJoo8aXCS9qlDprDA-UtbPxDBuHtszTRlY6jceBs-eB6DCWkojGaHLqBl_ACRIf9BFEBrYL1XluusCfaswavGXyc6HnsKyLy3EZooLQPCuh6x_XN7CLzohgh1IY-ZY9cwAunfG25-/s1600/cd-case-frame-diy-0909-de.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbCOcJoo8aXCS9qlDprDA-UtbPxDBuHtszTRlY6jceBs-eB6DCWkojGaHLqBl_ACRIf9BFEBrYL1XluusCfaswavGXyc6HnsKyLy3EZooLQPCuh6x_XN7CLzohgh1IY-ZY9cwAunfG25-/s400/cd-case-frame-diy-0909-de.jpg" width="312" /></a></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/crafts/projects/cd-case-craft-0909">source </a> </span></div><h1 style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">And for those who want a bigger challenge...  </span></h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF77H-3u3qFVnCIHPG3p7P0GqUr1UDyJnP9bEhZdNx-lLVTqopVrCTF2FUrgqXQdkHJbYFLvIg3AuZIXKIXbiijhpp7SM7wGc-aufHIvQCgs8IaE834-6vpqIWNahj06nqBrySzySNQJ4N/s400/CD-Case-Mural.jpg" width="400" /></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Recipe Hostess Gift.</b>..How about an interesting hostess gift presented in a CD case?  Decorate the front and print the recipe and include it inside.  Check out the link below to see how the case acts as a stand. </span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr-VEhwiyjgZh-X9veiLXag020wH_7lYE9MeYf3UZJ8fqPsMcAROz8FoSyFcgMz_JaIs_IJr9o70EdPCqmybXTVrvVW7abalVJoZxje1w45UFMlO4d4ygH8sIuGw3hN9a4-WdYmAqXYcag/s1600/P1170635.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr-VEhwiyjgZh-X9veiLXag020wH_7lYE9MeYf3UZJ8fqPsMcAROz8FoSyFcgMz_JaIs_IJr9o70EdPCqmybXTVrvVW7abalVJoZxje1w45UFMlO4d4ygH8sIuGw3hN9a4-WdYmAqXYcag/s400/P1170635.JPG" width="385" /> </a></span></div><h2 class="header Heading3" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://cardsandarts1.blogspot.com/2010/09/recycling-project.html">source  </a></span></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUfpWnGpqxpxzZ-4Y39R5mnNWDEsm4eWwihzzP-_nhcLyoH3St68wtGF7ztl3knNHoP7LUrvSS62I83IdkNdPuHP8pKvaTMKavmRIsXvw9mfCusAnF5G_Egb24Wn-0Z8YX08ZLsQ-4cqLV/s1600/cd_case_gift_card_holder_17-500x333.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUfpWnGpqxpxzZ-4Y39R5mnNWDEsm4eWwihzzP-_nhcLyoH3St68wtGF7ztl3knNHoP7LUrvSS62I83IdkNdPuHP8pKvaTMKavmRIsXvw9mfCusAnF5G_Egb24Wn-0Z8YX08ZLsQ-4cqLV/s400/cd_case_gift_card_holder_17-500x333.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><h2 class="header Heading3" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Gift Card container</b>....Check out directions at<a href="http://www.chicaandjo.com/2010/02/15/cd-case-gift-card-holder/"> Chico and Joe. </a></span></h2><h2 class="header Heading3" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b></b></span></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YitzuEIi2xnxMKMG5AqFXEsJRzxidAODTGpWRbtm-41H7E-W_pmn3Du9CVu7pDbYtuRUYhv5Ig3Gqg9t-d5QM8QpnEvTpwwAH_O7zhpZO6R1MqFIyU2p-fPOLnHJygbhHexdC0vTaxDZ/s1600/NotLit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YitzuEIi2xnxMKMG5AqFXEsJRzxidAODTGpWRbtm-41H7E-W_pmn3Du9CVu7pDbYtuRUYhv5Ig3Gqg9t-d5QM8QpnEvTpwwAH_O7zhpZO6R1MqFIyU2p-fPOLnHJygbhHexdC0vTaxDZ/s400/NotLit.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><h2 class="header Heading3" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>CD Photo Cube.</b>.. </span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24343551@N04/sets/72157608818574621/detail/" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Flickr</a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">. </span></span></h2><h1 style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG31qmbJqkUEEv1bREQZo2xwMV1NcMv3-5NhN0oi7LIZFqGeXyeBNUcTbEMuNVrKrp_o5L88qbAV4VZ28H6SZ-NWziTdXplNwxoKZUEC_KQWXOPaE0AaFYnklbp270HhBY4pfMD1BG_7lA/s1600/cd_case_calendars.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG31qmbJqkUEEv1bREQZo2xwMV1NcMv3-5NhN0oi7LIZFqGeXyeBNUcTbEMuNVrKrp_o5L88qbAV4VZ28H6SZ-NWziTdXplNwxoKZUEC_KQWXOPaE0AaFYnklbp270HhBY4pfMD1BG_7lA/s400/cd_case_calendars.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></h1><h1 style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you use  any of these ideas why not  send me a photo to share with  blog readers. I can tell from my blog stats that I have lurking readers so why not participate and make it a group affair! </span></h1>

Interesting Possibilities

The idea of adding interest to your home while staying within a budget appeals to most people, me included.  I have to admit that many of th...

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A rich alternative

I'm always on the look out for what's new in colour schemes (knowing full well that there's nothing new , only recycled, slightly adjusted past trends).  I recently read an interesting post on <a href="http://www.porterhousedesigns.com/colorsizzle/tiger-eye">Color Sizzle  </a>titled Tiger's Eye; the name immediately brought a range of colours to mind.  Intrigued, I read on.  Just as I expected, Kelly was referring to those golden amber to honey brown colours suggesting that "if you've been looking for a neutral other than gray or beige, tiger-eye is a great alternative that creates a warm backdrop for many different colors and wood finishes"  Think luscious, elegant and cozy. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXorVL5PnFpik0ProDcB9jS5B7ETpNHewyt4gd4bS2TPry3zHD3HOGOV7HXDWCVVFdwf0Ts1GzeyoX57LSrVL6IQ3RtNFpvl6YJwgArxvz32Q6e4QB7nWl_zhfLHaJK7dUffpZbLKv9iG8/s1600/tiger-eye-gemstone-gallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXorVL5PnFpik0ProDcB9jS5B7ETpNHewyt4gd4bS2TPry3zHD3HOGOV7HXDWCVVFdwf0Ts1GzeyoX57LSrVL6IQ3RtNFpvl6YJwgArxvz32Q6e4QB7nWl_zhfLHaJK7dUffpZbLKv9iG8/s320/tiger-eye-gemstone-gallery.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.internetstones.com/tiger-eye-gemstone-gallery.html">source</a></div><br />Then I found a second post by<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/163263/list/Old-Gold-is-a-New-Neutral"> Erica Ward</a></span> on Houzz who heralded that "old gold" is a new neutral, but gold with a twist - not it's  heavy or brassy predecessor we lived through  in past years.<br /><br />Now I'm having difficulty warming up to these pronouncements because I'm basically a gray lover, but I do love gray and yellow together so I suppose that's a start.  I am willing to give any colour a chance to convince me of its merits.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The "new" gold is not gaudy or flamboyant, dark or drab or used in excess.   Call it what you will,  gold has always been a staple for homeowners who want warmth, but there's an updated take on this hue. For 2011 we're talking about gentler, softer gold tones, often with a matte look. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsb1V-jd6XT1pdoDXZMVfnHEF6tAQpFJAxqCTJCb-IwBFlW5xR5oyutwLZgaZ0pJWTpzklik0btoebwj1-92U75UsmxaFSGhRJNOI8VKYmEQjIDqMOLIKFBW2N3S-PBzt472_KIQOuIgwQ/s1600/modern-warm-living-room-designs-2-300x236.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/44779/Habersham-project-traditional-family-room-atlanta"><img alt="Habersham project traditional family room" border="0" height="388" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/44779_0_8-3939-traditional-family-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional/family-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/5400/Valerie-DeRoy-Interiors-LLC" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Valerie DeRoy Interiors, LLC</a></small><br /><small><br /></small><br /><small> </small><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small> <span style="font-size: small;">This palest of golds, soft and toned, adds warmth without boldness.  The overall look is light and pleasing and one you would not tire of quickly. </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><small> </small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/53668/Summer-Home-contemporary-bathroom-chicago"><img alt="Summer Home contemporary bathroom" border="0" height="640" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/53668_0_8-6717-contemporary-bathroom.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/bathroom" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/6678/Nora-Schneider-Interior-Design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Nora Schneider Interior Design</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">This bathroom has the same overall feel as the room above even though  the wall colour is a little darker.   </span></small></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/51752/Decor-by-Jennifer-Inc-contemporary-family-room-"><img alt="Decor by Jennifer Inc contemporary family room" border="0" height="326" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/51752_0_8-2285-contemporary-family-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/family-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/toronto" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">toronto interior designer</a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/6027/Jennifer-Brouwer" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Jennifer Brouwer</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Monochromatic, rich and restful in various values of gold from the softest cream to a buttery gold on the walls.  </span> </small></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/87800/Corbett-Lighting-traditional-dining-room-miami"><img alt="Corbett Lighting traditional dining room" border="0" height="642" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/87800_0_8-5978-traditional-dining-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/showroom/miami" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">miami showroom</a> Capitol Lighting</small></div><br />This is a similar look as the monochromatic living room above that is enhanced by the gold on the tray ceiling which causes the rest of the room to glow. <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsb1V-jd6XT1pdoDXZMVfnHEF6tAQpFJAxqCTJCb-IwBFlW5xR5oyutwLZgaZ0pJWTpzklik0btoebwj1-92U75UsmxaFSGhRJNOI8VKYmEQjIDqMOLIKFBW2N3S-PBzt472_KIQOuIgwQ/s1600/modern-warm-living-room-designs-2-300x236.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></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/AVvXsEjbMAYhgfjUL4c3SQSgMilfPROswMfcMYGGNJ-vS1uUpUf_8AImFUTNH6zoG9dAJsTfHskcBp8vJW6ZZzmoZm3-hxA6JB7rwR5dDhZS36MWoQrvtGv8gQb-TDXXvmjKwmh8FbkFcP-CIz2z/s1600/lennoxx+Jan+showers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMAYhgfjUL4c3SQSgMilfPROswMfcMYGGNJ-vS1uUpUf_8AImFUTNH6zoG9dAJsTfHskcBp8vJW6ZZzmoZm3-hxA6JB7rwR5dDhZS36MWoQrvtGv8gQb-TDXXvmjKwmh8FbkFcP-CIz2z/s400/lennoxx+Jan+showers.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">via <a href="http://www.thelennoxx.com/category/browse-by-color/gold/">The Lennoxx  </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This sumptuous bedroom designed by Jan Showers invites relaxation.  It seems I'm particularly attracted to a monochromatic look. </div><h1 id="gallerySubtitle"></h1><h1 id="gallerySubtitle"></h1><h1 id="gallerySubtitle"></h1><a href="http://www.porterhousedesigns.com/colorsizzle/tiger-eye"> </a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/41936/Feminine-Dining-Room-3-traditional-dining-room-dc-metro"><img alt="Feminine Dining Room 3 traditional dining room" border="0" height="746" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/41936_0_8-9388-traditional-dining-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/5057/Paula-Grace-Designs-Inc" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Paula Grace Designs, Inc.</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This amber colour  is very complementary to darker wood tones and the added hints of gray blue makes the colour sing rich and luxurious. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbfIAdJzC7DrgHpcwX1PFTtjcBGQBQlNhyfUwnpqTtuXvAsY5QPmu92_MNR03Bu9BYwceXIWgF4cJs66PateTo3K__MVcV6ro2b4I4ROChoX1vjc9eG4sjfYQkmpbeiwOBaDw2-jeRVso/s1600/MATE-VEGA_Executive-III.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbfIAdJzC7DrgHpcwX1PFTtjcBGQBQlNhyfUwnpqTtuXvAsY5QPmu92_MNR03Bu9BYwceXIWgF4cJs66PateTo3K__MVcV6ro2b4I4ROChoX1vjc9eG4sjfYQkmpbeiwOBaDw2-jeRVso/s400/MATE-VEGA_Executive-III.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_796372302">The Lennoxx  </a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/17878/Gilded-Chair---"><img alt="Gilded Chair " border="0" height="509" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/17878_0_8-1371--.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">spaces design</a></small><br /><br /> Then there's gold used as an accent.  I always like the way gold work with black, blue or charcoal.  <small></small><br /><small><br /></small></div>

A rich alternative

I'm always on the look out for what's new in colour schemes (knowing full well that there's nothing new , only recycled, slightl...

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Take one roller shade and...

Do you want a WOW treatment for your window? Here are easy window treatments that won't set you back a week's pay, but are sure to be noticed.  All you need is a simple roller shade and a little time.  Perhaps these ideas will inspire new creations in your hands. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Take one roller shade and ...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>....paint it.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsr1lI9PpnJOmGOv8OY_a0WE2a1VinTew59oAJJhtFxpuJYfczpqIS_YuaRxNvOrDXgTmY3dz30lcye7aRpJ8Od84B0Mr2_IRFt_y42osbyV1vqq1gZvVpNPEkGBGlGJYguX2m-Lwqzyz/s1600/ss_100216803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsr1lI9PpnJOmGOv8OY_a0WE2a1VinTew59oAJJhtFxpuJYfczpqIS_YuaRxNvOrDXgTmY3dz30lcye7aRpJ8Od84B0Mr2_IRFt_y42osbyV1vqq1gZvVpNPEkGBGlGJYguX2m-Lwqzyz/s400/ss_100216803.jpg" width="278" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/window-treatments/window-projects/window-treatment-ideas/?page=6">Better Homes and Gardens</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A simple, large scale design and a vibrant colour create quite an impact.  All you need is a white roller shade, a pencil and acrylic paint.  When you've finished painting and everything is fully dried, use hot glue to attach a strip of contrasting ribbon at the bottom as a finishing detail. The addition of the ring pull adds a  detail that certainly works to add interest. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBBhbhQP7MySUyiyTAZGXaHRW403Phbc6-KQEToKsXjTHE1SlM2EQipz6sodojpZ96VYJ6-S8TQWeE2e9PCPuR4wX_HebLinECwgX-Hr_wgNyNJaCNz_h5xr7oZCz_bpnkpK-iRej1QAD/s1600/Painted-Roller-Window-Shade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBBhbhQP7MySUyiyTAZGXaHRW403Phbc6-KQEToKsXjTHE1SlM2EQipz6sodojpZ96VYJ6-S8TQWeE2e9PCPuR4wX_HebLinECwgX-Hr_wgNyNJaCNz_h5xr7oZCz_bpnkpK-iRej1QAD/s400/Painted-Roller-Window-Shade.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.homeworkshop.com/2010/10/20/10-diy-window-treatments-quick-inexpensive/">Home Workshop</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's another take  in stripes using the same process. All you need is a ruler and painter's tape and some left over acrylic paint.  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bOLSMVu8JrxOmHpYNu03Q-xCoJYTW5Frxh7t6zSAufruEBe_DLHIC9K0rbT7DMZ1gx3lrNTa9ZFpr3Dlcit19JFMBNobF5TQnx_zoO678kHJRtdcpLaOjYV7IRbrXH4kg0LiCqVBCTVo/s1600/myhomeideas_sunset_stencilshade.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bOLSMVu8JrxOmHpYNu03Q-xCoJYTW5Frxh7t6zSAufruEBe_DLHIC9K0rbT7DMZ1gx3lrNTa9ZFpr3Dlcit19JFMBNobF5TQnx_zoO678kHJRtdcpLaOjYV7IRbrXH4kg0LiCqVBCTVo/s1600/myhomeideas_sunset_stencilshade.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.myhomeideas.com/room-galleries/family-room-leafy-shade-10000001663062/index.html">My Home Ideas </a><br /><br />I think the simple designs work best int this treatment.  White and green always look so fresh no matter what the application. <br /><br /><b>...use origami paper on  it</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVFwPo1L7wFy2YEo51LbLGhg3G0wsuCEaPAY0A0AsQBIPda6vwghFI2j0mz5tR8sGcL_nZ-8WchyZm9m7IQqLlpnWnYOYpVBc3nwogzzZmSitSKqxtlmYfsXxdtkuDlR4XpTSmfbye6Ahd/s1600/ss_BHG154796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVFwPo1L7wFy2YEo51LbLGhg3G0wsuCEaPAY0A0AsQBIPda6vwghFI2j0mz5tR8sGcL_nZ-8WchyZm9m7IQqLlpnWnYOYpVBc3nwogzzZmSitSKqxtlmYfsXxdtkuDlR4XpTSmfbye6Ahd/s400/ss_BHG154796.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/window-treatments/window-projects/window-treatment-ideas/?page=9">Better Homes and Gardens</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> This is an updated idea based on the quilt.  Origami paper squares are attached to a roller shade with craft spray adhesive.  Spray both the back of the paper and the shade for best results. To get a perfect grid  you should start by marking the vertical centre of the blind and applying the squares from that line out to the edges. Start at the bottom and work to the top.  If you have space left over at the edges and you don't want to cut a square, consider using a plain paper as a border. A coordinated ribbon can be glued at the bottom.  When everything is dry, apply  2-3 coat of acrylic matt medium over the top of the paper (available at art supply stores) to allow you to  gently sponge off any dust or stains.  A quicker solution would be to ....<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> ... use wallpaper on it</b></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/AVvXsEhMEJqwThl3EpYL6kB_1l1n3tA2YfX3hnKCfznLfaDKHiqRIgBQ6-2TBQHRCYj-Q_wyAbZIsi3Hv1CPSGtC3rlc7OGHtsv3kWaDHdLWHTQwmMT4hdxZCG6Ejkcy5OEvNxezE2EXiRt8bJUl/s1600/wallpaper_double-shades_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMEJqwThl3EpYL6kB_1l1n3tA2YfX3hnKCfznLfaDKHiqRIgBQ6-2TBQHRCYj-Q_wyAbZIsi3Hv1CPSGtC3rlc7OGHtsv3kWaDHdLWHTQwmMT4hdxZCG6Ejkcy5OEvNxezE2EXiRt8bJUl/s400/wallpaper_double-shades_xl.jpg" width="380" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://curbly.com/diy-maven/posts/5222-1-window-shade-3-ways">Curbly</a><br /><br />I like the busy pattern with the simple side panels.  This gives a very put together look with very little effort or expense.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://curbly.com/diy-maven/posts/5222-1-window-shade-3-ways"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> ....use contact paper on it</b></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTpP9uEYO_BR7BfEKOrQtiGKlWfrc4527Q1cIx4DAmnG8UWGq1vFOzdB-0Ibi6j15_pI2Wfjaz3mddhJFSL5RHFCxm9TCGfW-5hyphenhyphenaCm8y8VnlgZE6fJl4NAdXM8bx68xTbFVmU_rpmE9o/s1600/AT-Contact-Paper-Customized-Window-Shade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTpP9uEYO_BR7BfEKOrQtiGKlWfrc4527Q1cIx4DAmnG8UWGq1vFOzdB-0Ibi6j15_pI2Wfjaz3mddhJFSL5RHFCxm9TCGfW-5hyphenhyphenaCm8y8VnlgZE6fJl4NAdXM8bx68xTbFVmU_rpmE9o/s400/AT-Contact-Paper-Customized-Window-Shade.jpg" width="302" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/chicago/inspiration/inspiration-diy-contact-paper-window-shade-decals-063992"> Apartment Therapy </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Now how easy can it get?  The sky's  the limit to what types of designs you could make from contact paper. Think about all the motifs you could use in a child's room.  </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">.<b>... stencil it </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyxpKsYco0b1-FLJ6X4OJzyin9rLYZa3bjvTY79mt0K4LY1SuL4QZxDDK4fTSG_tESAVj_9jJFmSEKif29DN0sb2or9_fRJpLIjWl-wVU3Vxtw7gd5-awKtQqCg_bRfTX3h8xvYyAyZsH/s1600/Simply-Stenciled-Bamboo-Window-Shade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAoCnQG6phKb9rUOcyGumBPnoHYw24TeVERWMCHRqeeKB4Kcn9eeqloXH-EVzafzmGNAvUeXUONSubaAr637ePeO5fWp5dd4sTPii6s_xt3S_y_Xnp48C4AaTc4j5l56r_4hmyoOz9TQQj/s1600/mla104119_0908_shade_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAoCnQG6phKb9rUOcyGumBPnoHYw24TeVERWMCHRqeeKB4Kcn9eeqloXH-EVzafzmGNAvUeXUONSubaAr637ePeO5fWp5dd4sTPii6s_xt3S_y_Xnp48C4AaTc4j5l56r_4hmyoOz9TQQj/s400/mla104119_0908_shade_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/article/stenciled-roller-shade?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/shade-and-curtain-projects#slide_8">Martha Stewart</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />The effects you can achieve by stenciling are as varied as the stencils you can buy or better still make yourself.  Check out  how to stencil a shade  on the link above.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><b>...create a cut out design on it</b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbdb4a4UMomJe1oPVna3NKUnewiCnYrUtuwjiPoJGBxR8c7QxCkSLJR7coVtk3cEf3hbJEpBNj5KUegqX4zeuYlc1eqk9IIFs4jz25ATEPqqEo860RhRMEO2l3Xe_J3Ft1YUzqB4Yqlzxn/s1600/mld103886_0209_pulldwnshd1_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbdb4a4UMomJe1oPVna3NKUnewiCnYrUtuwjiPoJGBxR8c7QxCkSLJR7coVtk3cEf3hbJEpBNj5KUegqX4zeuYlc1eqk9IIFs4jz25ATEPqqEo860RhRMEO2l3Xe_J3Ft1YUzqB4Yqlzxn/s400/mld103886_0209_pulldwnshd1_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/goodthings/scalloped-window-shade?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/shade-and-curtain-projects#slide_6">Martha Stewart</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />This simple but elegant look is easy to achieve and works best on a coloured shade. Again, you can depend on Martha to show you how. <br /><br /><b>...use fabric on it </b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMTg_JoTEaQOsV75q9z5zQGEVa7AMRRsiIxnAjEWddvAhCDq2AdxeW_5Q-t28PY1xeOSt_1xzhxLWx9_cLlaDPvleqeCOOKPdzhUo4ghSW_s9N4krHA9CGcVX7IhgsgkfU_BoiwZLFBpYR/s1600/sara1666666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMTg_JoTEaQOsV75q9z5zQGEVa7AMRRsiIxnAjEWddvAhCDq2AdxeW_5Q-t28PY1xeOSt_1xzhxLWx9_cLlaDPvleqeCOOKPdzhUo4ghSW_s9N4krHA9CGcVX7IhgsgkfU_BoiwZLFBpYR/s400/sara1666666.jpg" width="383" /></a></div> Photo: Sara French<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This bold, contemporary design in my daughter's guest bedroom is a far cry from  the original shade which had  a scalloped edge below the weight bar complete with a decorative fringe . The scalloped edge was cut off at the weight bar to square it off, and then fabric was attached with spray adhesive.  The shade was rewound to roll over thus hiding the mechanism for a  more polished look. </div><br />This is a similar look with a more traditional pattern.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pBn7qiuNVWObTJp5BhMiNcyGi0IF-vYAtMnjxkrJEnFExMMsGQFyaQ19Puh8LLIBnjeY1pZjBXVEsTzIOL4ebYVzXakbNjq1CfvOkdJi_lddIscHDvf53rES5nv8BFwvnEsKAxf9TZHr/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pBn7qiuNVWObTJp5BhMiNcyGi0IF-vYAtMnjxkrJEnFExMMsGQFyaQ19Puh8LLIBnjeY1pZjBXVEsTzIOL4ebYVzXakbNjq1CfvOkdJi_lddIscHDvf53rES5nv8BFwvnEsKAxf9TZHr/s400/003.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />Little Bean Workshop provides a good description of how to apply fabric to a roller shade. Check it out <a href="http://littlebeanworkshop.blogspot.com/2010/09/diy-custom-roller-shades.html">here</a>.<br /><br />.<b>..add ribbon to it</b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1k-gFvg8zcP6Dc8ECLN7prqvz8THLBm1BMPbE8W89O4aMvx5mbqRcF55bl1yJmtJUzaEc6_zyjLs0XgWjb4RdQRIRsIPUOyVHidIzw_PEcNqYUX5w4zvzLW9ElCxlO9MSIyg4EN9ZWqEg/s1600/laura-fenton-good-housekeeping-window-shade-0510-lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1k-gFvg8zcP6Dc8ECLN7prqvz8THLBm1BMPbE8W89O4aMvx5mbqRcF55bl1yJmtJUzaEc6_zyjLs0XgWjb4RdQRIRsIPUOyVHidIzw_PEcNqYUX5w4zvzLW9ElCxlO9MSIyg4EN9ZWqEg/s400/laura-fenton-good-housekeeping-window-shade-0510-lg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> via <a href="http://thelittlehouseinthecity.blogspot.com/2010_07_01_archive.html">Little House in the City </a><br /><br />I love the crispness of this application, but you could get different looks by changing the pattern and colours of the ribbon.<br /><br /><br /><b>...use vinyl appliques on it </b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uNq5Nz7EP8mDMyUC4hWvw2t06xqe4LEG6mn915nRAXWbG8epuNhu3gHuOUR-0WY7-mKUm0ImcPaOdDdbCgJztkBVHuN_gHYw9-AVmyuVwY3ghZ6654D2knMWBGuRRmGz876tWVkv6VvA/s1600/lauren%2527s+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uNq5Nz7EP8mDMyUC4hWvw2t06xqe4LEG6mn915nRAXWbG8epuNhu3gHuOUR-0WY7-mKUm0ImcPaOdDdbCgJztkBVHuN_gHYw9-AVmyuVwY3ghZ6654D2knMWBGuRRmGz876tWVkv6VvA/s400/lauren%2527s+room.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>photo: Vera Greene<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Vinyl appliques (<a href="http://www.bizrate.com/paint-wall-covering-supplies/oid1706861049.html">Roomates Deco</a>) offer interesting design options for shades. This  open weave  in an outside mount  covering the window trim allows for a seamless continuation of the wall design.  My talented sister, who can create stunning looks from very little,  suggests leaving the design at the bottom  of the blind  for easy  rolling.  </div><br />I almost feel pressed to come up with a nifty design for my own home, but all windows treatments are currently up to date. Do you have any ideas about embellishing a simple roller shade  to add to the list? </div>

Take one roller shade and...

Do you want a WOW treatment for your window? Here are easy window treatments that won't set you back a week's pay, but are sure to b...

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