Design Style Guide

Why use Crystals in the Home?

2012-01-19T03:28:00.000-08:00

Kitchen appliances are time saving and necessary for a high functioning modern family however they can also produce low level radiation. All household appliances generate electromagnetic energy, or an electromagnetic field (EMF), that can impact our health and relationships. Correct placement of crystals around the home can absorb the electromagnetic field and re-balance the energy in the living space.

Crystals and Home Appliances

Home devices such as digital cameras, computers, large televisions and kitchen appliances all give off electromagnetic energy and radiation that can be reduced by crystals. This is not to say that Bosch dishwashers, refrigerators and electric juicers are bad for your health, on the contrary, they make life easy and sustain your family.

Crystals and geodes are not only delightful ornaments in the home they can also protect, cleanse and clear the home of negative energy. Much like the ancient practice of Feng Shui, crystal placement through the living space engenders balance, harmony and positive energy.

Kitchen Crystal Tips

Clear or smoky quartz can be purchased in clusters or single pieces and can reduce radiation from kitchen appliances.
Zeolite is a microporous mineral composed of aluminium, silicone and oxygen. It works in the kitchen to absorb cooking odours.
Rose quartz and amethyst are two crystals commonly used to foster balance and harmony. Rose quartz crystal is usually light pink in colour while amethyst ranges from mauve to dark purple. Either one of these can be placed in the dining area to encourage peaceful family meals.

Bedroom Crystal Tips

Rose quartz is associated with encouraging romance and a large geode can make a pleasant bedroom ornament.
Amethyst is regarded as possessing power to neutralise negativity while you sleep. If you suffer from nightmares or sleep disturbances place a small crystal under the pillow.
Place clear quartz on any appliances or power outlets near your bed it will absorb some of the electromagnetic energy.
Tiger’s Eye is believed to induce spiritual well-being and be helpful in healing from injury and sickness. Place some close to your body, either on a necklace while you sleep or next to the bed.

Crystals in the living Room

Since the living room is usually the busiest room in the house and a lot of different energy passes through this space a large amethyst geode can generate protection.

A large rose quartz geode placed in the lounge room is helpful in aiding communication between loved ones and encourages warm and loving energy.
Green fluorite helps remove negative energy from the area.
Clear quartz crystals placed on or under the television or entertainment unit absorb electromagnetic energy.

Crystals that reduce Electromagnetic Energy

Clear Quartz
Smoky Quartz
Rose Quartz
Amethyst ( also a form of Quartz)
Citrine (Citrine is a rare form of Quartz. Make sure you are not buying heat treated Amethyst)
Fluorite

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals found in the Earth’s continental crust.

Investing in Luxury Bedding

2012-01-09T23:44:00.000-08:00

Whether shopping online or at a local retailer, bedding shop experience provides a showcase of fine luxury fabrics in different colors and patterns from all over the world. Luxury fabrics like Egyptian cotton, high thread count percale or sateen, and smooth silks are sold as single sheets, sheet sets, or bed-in-a-bag sets to fit most any size bed from crib to king. Luxury bed linen is sold out with coordinating pillow shams, comforters and quilts to complete the look. The various parts of the bed which turn it to luxury bedding have been explained.

The duvet was originally created more for warmth than luxury. Eiderdown, which is harvested from Eider Ducks, is what the traditional duvet is stuffed with. Duvets that are still made in the traditional manner, with Eiderdown, are definitely luxurious bedding. The duvet is meant as a substitute for blankets and comforters and, as Eiderdown is not easy to clean, duvets are generally covered with a duvet cover.

Bed sheets are either normal or luxury. The quality of the bed sheets can be measured in different ways. The thread count and thread’s country of origin are important criterion for measuring the quality of bed sheets.

Matelasse is a type of luxury bed linen which means padded in French. When used with luxury bedding, it is a thick, hand quilted luxury bed linen that contains no padding within the garment itself. Although usually made out of 100% cotton, there are other materials that sometimes make their way into Matelass.

The coverlet is used mainly to decorate and is often placed on top of a duvet or other thick covers. Besides being used on a luxury bed, the coverlet is also used as a throw blanket. They are generally quite thin, and are not suitable for keeping warm. Coverlets have been mostly replaced by duvet covers in most luxury bedding ensembles. They can be purchased individually, or as part of a luxury bedding set and is available in a wide variety of designs and patterns.

A luxury bed linen not only gives the bedroom an elegant look but also drastically improves the quality of sleep. Although luxury bed linens may are more expensive than standard linens does not mean an average customer does not invest in it. The fact that most luxury bedding sets last at least 10 years or more, or are even handed down as heirlooms from generation to generation, makes it a worthwhile investment.

The most fashionable luxury bed linens that are available on the market today are sheets which provide sophistication and comfort to the bed. The higher the thread count, the more expensive and luxurious the sheets are considered to be. A complete set of luxury bed linen consists of all of the sheets needed, pillowcases, shams, a dust ruffle and a duvet cover. The best quality bed linens should be bought at a specialty linen store. Luxury bed linens have a wide variety and there are many top manufacturers that have luxury bed linens for sale.

You can enjoy your outdoors with comfortable café chairs

2011-12-02T03:29:00.000-08:00

Eating outdoors or having your coffee in an open place is a great experience to have. Whether it’s a fresh air, people watching, hustle and bustle of the streets; all can be done from the comfort of your seat that are placed in the open cafes. One of the key things that contribute to a great outdoor experience is the comfortable furniture. To serve this purpose, comfortable café chairs is the best option.

In different cities, there is a majority of persons including youngsters, small children, families and many more, who want to enjoy and have fun in the outdoor cafes. In some parts, there are also some people, who are crazy for eating outdoors regardless of they are seated at a small wrought iron café table and the chairs for two or large sized aluminium booth with benches. Outdoor restaurant can make or break the experience of eating outside, so it becomes necessary to select the best café chairs for your cafes. The menu of the café from inside to outdoors cannot change but the seating arrangement can easily be changed. Outdoor dining is often spur-of-the-moment and is unassuming, which can play a key role in the making the surroundings more enticing. With proper seating arrangement, your visitors can easily get a place to relax, unwind and take complete pleasure in the view.

There are numerous seating arrangements that can be sleek and contemporary, informal and modern or elaborate and conventional but the most important point that has to be kept into mind is that the furniture should complement the décor of the restaurants. Outdoor café chairs can help build a style statement about an eatery and can help to bring the attention of the potential customers. The restaurant owners also make sure that scrumptious meals are offered at reasonable prices. Along with this, they also ensure that the meals are in decent serving sizes and the surroundings are comfortable and have stylish seating.

When you are making the seating arrangements for your restaurants then you should consider who the most common visitors are. If the common visitors are the business groups then the seating arrangements should have a strong air of elegance about it. On the other side, if the visitors are more often the students hen durable, easy to clean and bright future should be used.

Many resorts, hotels and spas, use different type of furniture for their outdoor furniture. In some cases, they opt for rattan style pieces that reflect a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the restaurants also choose large umbrella style seating arrangements that add extra tropical element.

With a wide range to choose from, there is a endless list of furniture that includes bar stools, cafe style table, chaise lounges, chairs and benches that are made using aluminium, wood, plastic, rattan, wicker and resin. You can also select different designs and colors of the furniture according to the décor of your restaurants. The furniture is available in different colours like greens, blues, creams, black, pewter, bronze, silver or copper. Before purchasing the furniture, clear all the questions that you have in your mind. The questions are like what materials are more comfortable to sit in, what wears longer, what is easier to clean and what prices to expect. Once you have been cleared with all the questions in your mind then you can select the suitable furniture that matches with the décor of your café.

Which Desk is Best? – Furnishing a Sydney Office

2011-10-10T22:36:00.000-07:00

Furnishing an office in Sydney can be excellent fun but there are so many options that your head may start to spin like a revolving chair. This short guide will provide you with a breakdown of some of the options for office furniture in Sydney that are available to you when buying chairs and tables.

Workstation

Traditionally offices were laid out with cubicles and workstations. There are both benefits and disadvantages to using this method of desks. The obvious benefit over other styles is privacy and noise prevention, but this does however also pose a problem. When attempting to stop your staff from becoming distracted by the many possible websites online, it is difficult to do so when they are all in individual desks. The benefit of noise reduction does mean that conversations can be held more easily in the office.

Office Desk

The office desk can be used either in an individual office or as one of many in an open plan office. If you do not have the luxury of having an office each, then an open plan office is a good option. Whilst it does mean that a disturbance anywhere will disturb everyone, it does allow for easier monitoring of your staff members and will help to build stronger relationships between your staff members. An open plan office looks modern and professional and induces hard-working staff because they feel more monitored by each other and by the manager.

Boardroom Table

Every office needs a boardroom or meeting room and they require a large table. This table needs to be big enough for a group meeting and also flexible for use for interviews and presentations. Choosing the right boardroom table is dependent on the number of people who will attend meetings and the space available. Remember that if a table is too large, not allowing space to move around the room, then it will make both staff members and clients uncomfortable when they are required to use it.

Executive Chairs

When it comes to buying office chairs in Sydney there are three distinct types that are necessary to have. The first of these is the executive or managers chair. This chair must tell of professionalism and respect. A professional chair has more of an impact on clients and business partners than you would expect and it will also demonstrate authority to your staff members.

Client Chairs

The client chair should ideally match the chairs of the businessman but be on a smaller scale. It is important to create a distinction between customer and staff member through the use of chairs; yet it is also essential to make the client comfortable. Find a matching chair which is still comfortable but visibly different to establish clear boundaries which are defined by the furniture.

Meeting Chairs

Meeting room chairs need to be versatile and easily manoeuvrable. Brainstorming and differing numbers of meeting attendees will require different positions from the chairs so make sure they are lightweight and easily moved to prevent any injury or inconvenience.

Best Practice Carpet Design- Save Money and Customize Your Flooring

2011-09-27T03:47:00.000-07:00

There are two primary issues in commercial carpet installation and design- Cost and appearance. Both can be extremely expensive, and the results, sad to say, can be pretty mediocre. The experience of buying an expensive carpet and then having to pay for customization as well as maintenance and cleaning can be a pretty thankless one, and very frustrating.

The trouble is the nature of most commercial carpets. Broadloom is incredibly expensive, and very difficult to maintain over the product life of a carpet, which can be up to 10 years. Add to this the basic costs of repairs and cleaning, and you’ve got a sort of office administration equivalent of a black hole, consuming time and money.

The new generation of carpets- Cheap, tough, and cost-efficient

Fortunately for long-suffering building managers, there’s a new option on the market, a revolutionary new type of commercial carpet which is in a much higher league to the old style high maintenance carpets of the past. The new type of carpet is a new range of carpet tiles, which don’t have underlay, are extremely durable, and fully customizable thanks to new manufacturing technology.

These carpet tiles are truly different. They’re not stitched together but glued, creating strong solid surfaces instead of the natural weak points in carpets created by seams. They’re also extremely easy to replace, taking seconds to remove and replace as distinct from the major production issues related to replacing broadloom carpets. They’re long-life, low or no maintenance flooring, and they’re becoming extremely popular in very demanding environments like airports, public spaces, and other very cost-conscious places in which carpet represents a high upfront cost.

Custom carpets to order- Digital carpet design with a few clicks

The new carpet tiles are the result of a complete revamp of carpet manufacturing technology, concepts and methods. These are truly “digital” carpets. They come in countless different designs, all of which can be made to order. The technology includes visualization software which allows people to pretty much design their own custom carpets using basic parameters. It’s also possible to create new designs in consultation with the manufacturers.

The result is a ready-made custom design or in fact multiple designs, if you need different layouts and motifs for different parts of your office. This is the new best practice in commercial interiors, getting high quality custom designs at significantly lower costs.

In terms of product life, these carpet tiles can achieve extraordinary savings on everything from the initial installation, basic maintenance and office cleaning to replacement. The net costs of all aspects of carpeting are reduced from the start, saving huge amounts of money over large areas and perhaps equally importantly reducing the “headache value” of managing commercial carpeting to zero.

Looking for carpeting solutions?

If you’ve been suffering from “carpet costing syndrome” the new carpet tiles will make an instant and very positive difference to all your issues. The high values of these new carpet solutions are measurable in dollar terms, and you and your budget will be feeling a lot happier. Check out the carpet tiles, and see what’s possible.

NEW FEATURE on Design Style Guide

2011-09-01T14:01:00.000-07:00

We have a NEW FEATURE on our Main Site www.designstyleguide.net/. You can now easily share your DSG Treasury on your blog or website. No more screen shots and simple links! You can also share ANY EXISTING Treasury.

READ MORE HERE: designstyleguide.net/community/blog/new-feature-on-design-style-guide/

Treasury from: Chezmoi Collection

2011 Fall Colors

Accent Pillow

From: House of Peltier

$45.00

Scented Silks - Princess Roses by MelroseFields.com

From: MelroseFields.com LLC

$45.00

Blooming Cherry Tree with Butterflies - Nursery Vinyl Wall DecalFrom styleywalls

From: Styleywalls

$89.00

Bountiful Tuscan Wine Country Wreath

From: Wild Mountain Wreaths

$123.00

Sea Turtle Platter Handbuilt Handmade Pottery

From: Island Girl Pottery/ Allard Studios, Inc

$50.00

Turquoise Green and pale green stoneware plate

From: New Prospect Pottery, LLC

$25.00

Set of four napkin rings with pinecone, and plaid fabric

From: House of Peltier

$24.00

Picasso-esque

From: Earthfired Pottery

$200.00

Gray Rug or Wall Hanging, Titled Point Counterpoint

From: Orca

$295.00

Ancient Rhythms - Fine Art Photo

From: WindDancer Photos

$92.00

3D Butterfly Pillow- Pink/ Green

From: Maggie Overby Studios

$35.00

Lemon Drop Damask Tufted Stool

From: flipt (a part of M.M. Leer Upholstery Studio)

$155.00

Battening Down The Hatches - Prepare Your Storm Plan

2011-08-27T03:21:00.000-07:00

Australians are no stranger to rough weather. With recent disasters affecting many northern cities and townships it is a good idea to have an action plan in place should a storm or other potentially disastrous weather phenomenon approach your locality.

On the bright side, we usually get some warning that rough conditions are approaching and this means if you have a plan in place, you will likely have time to execute most of it and ensure everyone and everything is taken care of. Regardless of your plan, make sure you have your home and contents insured and check your policy carefully to ensure it covers any weather patterns that are prominent in your area -- or any that have hit nearby areas.

So where do you get started in your disaster plan?

1. The House

Your first priority is obviously your family, but once they are all safe and accounted for, making sure you all have a place to live is your next action. Research strategies to prepare your home for the type of weather or natural disaster that is coming your way. For example:

Remove all leaves from gutters and flood the gutters with water if a fire is approaching.
For severe storms, tend to all your windows.
Reinforce them with cardboard to help keep them from breaking.

2. The backyard

Ensure your backyard is surrounded by strong and stable fencing, a fencing contractor will be able to advice what is best. If a storm is approaching, and you have time, remove anything unstable from the backyard and store in the garage, such as trampolines, and kid's plastic play equipment. Tie back all shrubs and plants to a stake or something stable so they aren't ripped out.

3. Pool

Your pool is going to be a mess if not properly prepared. The best thing you can do is head to your pool supplies store and buy yourself a cover to have at the ready. While the cover may be full of leaves and debris following a big storm, your water will remain clean, and maintenance is simply collecting the leaves in a bag and getting rid of them. This means you then don't need to worry about draining the water and starting again with fresh water and new chemicals.

4. Supplies

Ensure you always have some supplies on hand, should services be shut off, or you are segregated from points of supply. Clean water, candles and a first aid kit are a must. Also look at getting some basic food supplies that can last a few days.

Another must is reserves of prescription medication. Ensuring a supply of medications for illnesses such as diabetes and asthma is vital, as it could be these, rather than the weather, that result in a life or death situation.

5. Pets

Don't forget the pets! In really rough weather conditions consider bringing them inside and shutting them in the laundry. They should be safe there and can't do too much damage.

Autumn Treasury

2011-08-19T15:20:00.000-07:00

Treasury from: jn3 Hand Crafted Woodworks

Anticipating Autumn

Handwoven Recycled T-Shirt Rug

From: Five Forty

$200.00

Old Barn

From: Larry Nicosia Photopraphy

$29.00

Autumn Feathers Desert Vase

From: Bear Paws Pottery

$50.00

Autumn - 36 x 24 - Abstract Acrylic Painting-Highly Textured

From: Charlens Abstracts

$150.00

Four Patch Queen Size Quilt

From: Apollo Hills Crafts

$395.00

Goolish Coyote Trick-or-Treat Haloween Wreath

From: Wild Mountain Wreaths

$68.00

Autumn Leaves Pasta Bowl

From: Bear Paws Pottery

$55.00

Rustic Mail Box Wreath 109

From: Noelbelles

$21.00

Forest Autumn Trees with Birds 100 inches - Vinyl Wall Decal

From: Styleywalls

$89.00

Decorative pillow cover - Japanese pumpkin orange origami - Ecofriendly - 16x16

From: TiffinyDesigns

$32.00

Autumn Enchantment

From: The Creators Palette - Art by Melanie

$200.00

Cascading leaves

From: DesignsStainedGlass

$85.00

Tips for Choosing the Right Builder For Your Home

2011-07-27T06:31:00.000-07:00

When choosing a builder do your research beforehand, check their credentials, make sure you have a written contract and that they are reliable.

When choosing a builder for your home there are a number of things you should take into consideration. The same rules apply when building kit homes. You may choose to build your kit home yourself but you can have the entire project constructed for you by a professional builder. Many Kit homes in Victoria and in other places within Australia are being built with the help of fully qualified builders. It will cost you more to build your kit home if you hire a builder but if you are unsure of your abilities or don't have the time it can save you a lot of stress.

Do your research

Before you decide on a builder do a bit of research beforehand. You will be working closely with this person for a while and you are trusting them with your new home so you want to be happy that they are going to do a good job. Ask around friends and family as they may be able to recommend a good builder to you. If someone has had any building done by this particular builder ask if you can go and have a look at it. Find out whether they were easy to get along with, whether they were on time to work and if the cost of hiring them was reasonable.

Check their credentials

Before you hire the builder check their credentials. Make sure they are a fully qualified builder and that they are properly registered. Also make sure they are accredited with HIA (Housing Industry Association).

Contract

It is important to have a contract with your builder. This contract should include things like the start date and expected completion date of construction. It should have written in it exactly what their work includes and what their costs will be. Both parties should sign the contract and have a copy.

Price

Shop around to find the right builder that suits your price range, as well as finding someone whose work you like and who you can trust. Be upfront about what they charge as you don't want to get to the end of the job and find out that you can't afford to pay them. Be very clear about getting the costings at the beginning of the job and ask whether you need to be prepared for any unexpected costs, such as possible additions to the building or the builder finding that they need to use more materials than first anticipated.

Reliable

Make sure that your builder is reliable. You want your builder turning up when they say they will and turning up on time. If they wander in whenever they feel like it at any time of the day then the job is going to take a lot more time and cost you a lot more money. You also want someone who will contact you if they can't show because of illness or some other reason, just to let you know what is going on. You also want a builder that you can trust, so if you don't feel comfortable with them don't hire them.

The Best Floor Coverings for an Australia climate

2011-06-29T00:32:00.000-07:00

The Australian climate is temperate one. Unlike countries in the northern hemisphere, we do not experience snow and ice, harsh winds and biting frosts. Rather, Australians are lucky enough to experience wonderfully warm weather almost all year round. It also means that when it comes to home decoration we can choose from a variety of floor coverings like sandstone pavers, granite tiles and slate.

Hard floor coverings are almost impossible to consider in countries that experience ice and snow. The colder climates make hard flooring a nightmare of dangerous proportions. Ice and snow will rot and affect the composition of the natural materials, it will make them extremely slippery in certain weather conditions and finally it proves to be a cold and uncomfortable choice when you are battling the chill for much of the year.

Australia on the other hand possesses a positively tropical climate in many parts of the north and a mild and comfortable temperature in the southern states. Being close to the equator means we can enjoy sunny days and warm breezes for a lot of the year and even our winters seem to pass us by without seeing much below 10C.

Trying to stay cool and comfortable is an ongoing struggle for Aussies a lot of the time. However it is a battle that you can win when step inside our own home. When you walk through the door, you might be lucky enough to enter a room with the cool crispness of air conditioning. Perhaps you might have the cooled, swirling air created by ceiling fans. But if you are looking for more ways to cool your home, don’t look past your choice of flooring.

So much of the heat can be either absorbed or transmitted through the floor. Choosing natural materials is the best way to ensure the coolest feeling for your feet. Like wearing wool, natural floor coverings will keep you cool in summer and retain heat in winter.

Not only will stone and slate keep you cool, these substances will also last. The durability of stone and slate is its finest asset. Unlike most man-made materials, it will not fade in the sun; it is resistant to chemicals and alkalis and won’t be destroyed by water. These materials are difficult to chip and crack and look clean and tidy even when they’re not!

If you’re looking for a durable and well-wearing floor covering for your outdoor or poolside areas, then natural materials will once again be your first choice. Choosing high quality sandstone to line your pool area or complement your landscaping will end up saving you expensive repairs and maintenance costs. Good quality sandstone is tested for superior density, water absorption, slip resistance and resilience to salt attack which means it will look better for longer.

Like any natural substance, sandstone pavers will age gracefully and will actually add character, warmth and beauty to your home. It is hard to beat natural substances for durability, stain resistance, practicality and most importantly visual appeal. There really is no better choice for the harsh Australian climate, whether you’re looking at interior coverings or outdoor tiles.

Interior Design Tips to Make the Most of Every Hotel Room and Boost Business

2011-05-23T04:40:00.000-07:00

Better interior design can mean a radical improvement in business for even a discount hotel. If you are managing, operating or the owner of a small hotel, good design is your ticket to making great revenue. This article looks at some of the basics from the perspective of a traveller, who has seen many hotels, and a few renovated, that had booming business.

If you are managing, operating, or the owner of a hotel or other paid accommodation, interior design will always be an issue for you. There are many examples of boutique hotels that are making more money because they spent a little time and thought outside of the box, when it came to designing their interiors, and what items of furniture they used. Good choices can mean real savings in maintenance and labour. Let’s look at some of the options that can be employed. Good design will mean you are busier and can charge more for your rooms. It does not mean that it will have to cost you more to set up.

Lighting. Lighting is one of those areas that has come a long way in recent years. There are a range of lighting products that are inexpensive, and yet have a very expensive feel. Upward lighting creates space. When there is only one room, it is always the best option. Seriously consider this choice. Central ceiling lights are old-fashioned, condense the feel of a room, so old fashioned and are not effective.
Flooring. Carpet has long been out of fashion, and yet many hotels still continue to use it. More people do not want carpet in their homes, and so why would they want it in your hotel? Modern wooden floorings made from sustainable wood chips are very effective as insulators – perfect for any climate. These new floor types are very easy to maintain, relatively cheap and easy to install, and you will not have all that filth that builds up with carpets.
Furniture. It is not very often that I have stayed in a hotel and found a chair or table that I would use. I travel on business a lot, and have regularly wondered about this issue. There are amazing Sydney office chair suppliers, and yet we rarely see them as a part of a hotel arrangement. Choosing furniture that you want to use, is an issue that is commonly overlooked by hotel management. Too often we see that the furniture looks good, but is not comfortable to use. This also goes for lounge or sofa seats. Creative and functional items that are comfortable to sit in and use, should be your goal.
Walls. Again, design can do a lot for you. Much of the space in a room is wasted because the walls are not utilized properly. Walls should always be darker than your ceiling and lighter than your floors. This will create a sense of space. Walls that can be cleaned easier will obviously last longer. Good paints are worth the investment.
Air Conditioning. Another big area in many hotels is vents blasting air out from high up. Where possible the ventilation should be lower to the ground, around the level of our knees. Individual standing units can be converted into a wall table with a raised platform. Slow moving fans are very suitable for some climates and can save you a lot of money on costs.

I have seen some very impressive before and after renovations on my travels. They do not have to cost you a lot, and you will increase your revenue with a touch of style and atmosphere.

Containing Your Dog – Realistic Fencing Ideas and Fence Construction Tips

2011-04-13T03:06:00.000-07:00

Fencing contractors are usually the experts when it comes to containing your four-legged friend. A normal fencing solution will probably not apply. This article looks at some tips and ideas that will be of interest to anyone who has a pet and wants to keep it.

Containing your overzealous pet, mutt, prince, or guard dog is a serious issue. If your dog gets out and attacks someone, you risk losing your loved one and being hit with enormous legal bills. Fencing that can handle what your dog will attempt to do will take a little extra effort and some lateral thinking. If you are serious about containing your animals, this is the article for you.

Height. This is the first obvious issue. Many dogs can actually leap higher than their owners think. Especially if they are agitated or excited. There will be legal height restrictions in your region and you probably should go for the maximum allowable height by the law.

Foot Holds. This is an area where many home fence builders neglect. If you have railings your dog may use them to get that final boost to get over the fence. Many owners wonder how it was possible for their dog to get over their fence – this is the common cause. Building a fence that does not allow for railings to be used for that final push to get over the top, is extremely important.

Tunnelling. Dogs love to dig. We all know that. All dogs will attempt to dig under a fence. That is second nature to them. They will hear noises on the other side and it is only normal for them to start digging to get to that other side. As soon as there is any hint they can get through by tunnelling, you can be sure their attention has been captivated. Having fence that digs deep into the ground or has a concrete base is the best. Concrete bases work the best because the dog soon knows there is no way through. If you have a fence that is 1 foot into the ground your dog will still be digging at the ground. This will mean education and repair work on your behalf.

Gates. Gates can be the easiest place for a dog to escape. If you are serious about containing your animals at your point of entry and exit, having a secondary gate to create a buffer zone between the access point is a sensible option.

Too See or Not to See. Dogs have an amazing ability to hear much beyond us mere mortals. Not allowing your dog to see what is going on the other side of a fence will not stop their interest in what is going on, it will probably increase it. Having a fence that can be seen through is a great way to keep your dog stimulated and visible to others. Your dog will get used to people and visitors. A dog that is contained inside a space might well get very bored if they cannot see what is going on. This could lead them to getting agitated and excited at any noise. If they can see what is going on, they are more likely to get used to it. You can assist this with training.

Shock Therapy. If you want to teach your animals not to mess with your fence, setting up a low voltage electric fence is a very real option for the worst behaved dogs. Your dog will learn very fast the fence should not be messed with.

Installing a fence you intend to use for containing animals should be given some forethought. Fencing contractors and handyman stores will have a range of materials and more ideas on tough solutions to deal with the most determined four-legged friends.

Swimming pools and landscaping problems

2011-02-24T04:02:00.000-08:00

If you’re having landscaping issues with the swimming pool area, there are some things you need to know. Not all the issues with landscaping are obvious. Some types of landscaping can create problems and some can fix them. In some cases it’s also advisable to talk to your local pool supplies expert about any possible issues the landscaping may cause.

Landscaping- What causes problems

In some cases, landscaping has unintentional effects:

Trees with large roots planted too close to the pool
Landscape features provide access over the swimming pool fence
Plants or features pose risks to pool systems
Fencing, trees or other features block sunlight, or don’t block it enough
Effects on soil of major landscaping works (particularly on clay) which can affect the pool base and lining

These are essentially structural issues, affecting the pool in various ways. You can see why you need to consider these effects, because some of them can cause major, expensive problems.

To deal with these problems:

A landscaper will be able to correct the landscaping issues problems quite easily, but if the pool has been physically damaged or its base compromised, you’ll need some professional advice from your pool supplier.

Note: In some cases it’s a very good idea to arrange a “meeting of the minds” between your landscaper and pool supplier. Between them they have the technical knowledge to solve both the pool and the landscaping issues.

Landscaping and pool systems problems

Another type of problem, often not obvious, is the effect of the environment on pool systems. A critical system like a pool pump, for instance, doesn’t need to be surrounded by invasive plants, or have overhanging branches dripping on it after rain. Soil materials like molds and fungi can also invade electrical systems, particularly if the area around them is naturally damp.

Another common problem is the fact that some landscapes provide natural habitats for animals like mice, insects and rats, all of which can damage electrical equipment. (Some types of small house ants actually prefer to nest in warm environments like electrical housings, and they destroy the wiring in the process. They even nest in electrical timers.) It’s advisable to clear these areas, and recreate the landscape into a safer environment.

The only other party which may become involved in this process is a fencing contractor, if necessary to realign, install or carry out any necessary fencing works. Some landscapers may be able to do this as part of the general works, or simply work around the existing fence. Fencing contractors can also install privacy screens if necessary.

Putting your landscaper to work on the problems

Landscapers can turn any pool setting into a beautiful oasis. The process is pretty straightforward:

Consultation with the landscaper (and pool supplier if necessary)
Site survey and discussion of issues
Plan preparation
Check to see if any local government approvals are required for works
Quote process

The result will be a great, landscaped pool environment, with no further problems. Call your local landscaper, and see what’s possible.

Stay in bed a bit longer

2011-02-02T01:03:00.000-08:00

regular $29.00 – $169.00 special $23.00 – $135.00

With most of the MidWest expecting another huge storm this week it’s hard to think of snow, winter and snowflakes as beautiful. But white bedding has it's own warm beauty. And with a beautiful bedding set in your bedroom, it is easy to stay in bed a bit longer and forget about the storm. So I thought I would pay homage to it one last time before it disappears for yet another year! Here are some winter inspired bedding sets that I absolutely love. And what could be better than savings on top of that. Save 20% on all bedding for a limited time at West Elm!

regular $29.00 – $189.00 special $23.00 – $151.00

But there are many other great accessories at West Elm to complete your modern style house with beautiful contemporary things and modern furniture at a great price.

Office Flooring – What are the Options?

2011-01-10T22:47:00.000-08:00

Don’t feel daunted! It can seem as though there are too many possibilities and flooring options for your office space. You possibly thought that selecting something for the floor would be one of the simplest decisions you would need to make for the interior of your business. There are a considerable number of alternatives and here we bring you some of the most popular and reputable choices.

Carpet:

Carpet has traditionally been used in office spaces and for good reason – it can look effective while still being functional. You may be tempted to try to save on the cost of your carpet but it is with a warning that this is done. Quality carpet lasts longer and is more durable. By choosing a cheaper and inferior product, you may well end up having to pay for carpet again and well before you expect and should have to.

It is also important that you choose a type of carpet that is appropriate for the area in which it will be installed. If there is a significant amount of foot traffic, choose a durable and hard wearing carpet that will show as few signs of wear and tear as possible, in preference to a plush and very nice looking carpet that is more appropriate for a private home.

Carpet Tiles:

Carpet tiles represent a great alternative to conventional carpet. Now available in an extensive range of colours, styles and patterns, carpet tiles can be used in unique ways and to create particular effects, or can be used in more familiar ways to cover large floor spaces. Tiles can be easily replaced, are far more straightforward and quick to install than carpet. In addition, they are often made with eco-friendly products and through sustainable processes.

Vinyl:

Vinyl is not to be confused with the gaudy and quite ugly lino that you may well associate with the floor of your grandmother’s kitchen. Vinyl is available in a range of modern and attractive colours and styles and can be used to enhance an office space. Contemporary vinyl can even be sourced with a cushion underlay and of course, has excellent water proof qualities.

When considering vinyl as a possible flooring option, it is important to consider the different slip ratings. Do not ignore this characteristic of different types of vinyl – it is important to choose the most appropriate product for the needs and purposes of your office.

Tiles:

Durable, hard wearing and often easy to clean, tiles can look fabulous and can create a modern, sleek and sophisticated impression. However, tiles must be laid properly in order for them to be a sound investment in flooring. Tiles that have not been laid well can lead to frustration and wasted money.

Consider also the finish of the tiles used. Different effects are created through shiny or matte tiles and it is useful to evaluate the merits of each in your own office space.

Epoxy Paint:

Epoxy paint is a good option if the floor that it will cover is subjected to spills. Flooring of this type is easy to clean up and entirely practical for settings such as warehouses and other industrial contexts. Epoxy paint can be a cost effective option and will often enhance the look and feel of a large area.

Polished Timber:

Ever popular, this type of flooring comes in two main varieties: authentic polished timber boards and floating floor panel systems. Flooring of this type can be effectively used in reception, display and foyer areas but is less well suited to offices and work areas as floorboards can be noisy and have poor acoustic properties.

Lino:

Now manufactured and available in an array of attractive colours, lino is vastly different to the material best known for its use on kitchen floors! Lino is often made from natural products and while it is an appropriate flooring option in many locations, it is not the best option in wet areas.

Flooring is a very important aspect of the interior design of any office. However, it is vital to choose the most appropriate and durable option for the space in which it will be installed as well as the most attractive and cost effective type of floor covering.

Drawings that Jump Off the Wall

2011-01-04T13:31:00.000-08:00

West Elm's COLLABORATION WITH THE ARTIST, JASON POLAN.
They first met Jason Polan outside the Museum of Modern Art where he was in the midst of a typically ambitious endeavor – drawing every person in New York. Jason is a self-described "freelance artist" who sketches random New Yorkers in subway stations, museums and restaurants each day, and posts them that night on his blog, everypersoninnewyork.blogspot.com. He's also the creator of a cult-hit book, "The Every Piece Of Art in The Museum Of Modern Art Book". Included in the deluxe edition of this remarkable volume is a guided tour of MoMA – conducted by Polan himself – and a hot dog or pretzel after the tour. We went for the hot dog.

GREAT ART FOR WALLS, SOFAS (AND ONE LUCKY CHAIR)
Jason also spends a lot of time at the American Museum of Natural History. He showed us his simple line drawings inspired by the natural world, and we were instantly captivated. In collaboration with Jason, we printed some of these images on watercolor paper and framed them in solid ash with acid free mats. We also printed his images on a collection of room-changing pillows and the upholstery of a fortunate chair – the Oliver.

SHOP the COLLECTION

Visit Jason Polan @ jasonpolan.com

SIMPLICITY IS THE ESSENCE OF MODERN LIVING
We like clean lines, natural textures, and sensible proportions. Our inspirations include things like nature, color, art and ancient cultures, and we interpret these into classic pieces and decorative accents that make rooms calm, comfortable, and easy to live in. Complete your modern style house with beautiful contemporary accessories and modern furniture at a great price.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011

2011-01-01T17:21:00.000-08:00

First of all we wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR! May the year 2011 be one of the most prosperous years ever!

This time of the year is usually a time when I look back and see everything that we accomplished and plan for the new year ahead to achieve even greater success.

I am amazed how much we already accomplished as a team, when I look at our humble beginnings when we did not even have a website. This past year was filled with step by step progress in almost every month. Some of the major developments include the following:

1. We re designed our main page http://www.designstyleguide.net/index.php where we are highlighting the listings that are paired up with a coordinating room – otherwise known as ADD ON Feature.
2. We added an ability to add your FaceBook, Twitter and Blog links to your profile page, so your fans can follow you with one click of a button.
3. We developed our ADD ON Feature where we can add a coordinating room to your listing. This feature was designed to inspire our readers as well as promote the Interior Designers that can now have an integral part on our website.
4. We added an additional Log In for Interior Designers where they will too be able to become members of our team and have a separate portfolio on our site – connecting their room listings with your listings through our ADD ON Feature.
5. We created a new Gallery that lists all the listings with ADD ON Feature http://www.designstyleguide.net/gallery.php
6. We also added directories for DSG members http://www.designstyleguide.net/directory.php as well as Designers http://www.designstyleguide.net/designerDirectory.php and they are search able by key word or locations, thus it is easy to find both from certain state of city.
7. We also added a voting system to our Treasuries http://www.designstyleguide.net/treasuryList.php where you can add up to 5 stars for each Treasury once you click on each Treasury’s link.
8. We started our new team blog/community http://designstyleguide.net/community/ where we can network with each other and highlight listings and members of our team. We currently have 4675 followers.
9. We also started our FaceBook Page http://www.facebook.com/DesignStyleGuide with 1051 followers as well as our Twitter page http://twitter.com/dsgnet with 835 followers.
10. We also passed 5000 listings on our site.

So with all that what is our nest step?

Our Next Step is to move forward in full force inviting Interior Designers to come and join our team, promoting our team in various ways using everything we have created, creating many new YouTube Videos, promoting members on our blog and growing our collective portfolio. The Sky is the Limit!

HAPPY NEW YEAR ! May all your dreams come true!!!

What are some of your New Year’s Resolutions? Let us know in the comments bellow.

Geothermal Heating Systems - Learn About These Solutions

2010-12-27T07:57:00.001-08:00

In an time, where lowering carbon impact and eco-friendly power resources will be the news terms, geothermal energy provides a eco friendly choice for a heating energy source at your home. Due to the rising charges of both electrical power and oil, home owners the world over are exploring more recent alternatives for heating their homes.

The idea of geothermal has its origins within the Greek basic words geo together with thermal, that means earth and heat respectively. Essentially it identifies heat extracted with the earth. Geothermal energy employs the all natural heat deep inside the earth by possibly employing a pump which transfers that heat or benefiting from a present geothermal spot by constructing the house over it. In either case, it's easier with this system to remain designed and constructed into houses in the development phase, than include it within an already established home.

Benefits

An environmentally friendly alternative. This power is an abundant nonpolluting reference, as well as its damaging outcomes are thought to be little at greatest.

Reliability in the long run. It's an energy source that won't die out on you anywhere in the near future unlike fossil fuels.

Will save dollars. This power subsidizes heating bills, reducing them by around 70%.

Lightweight heat pump. It indicates the pump could fit any basements, even the ones from more compact houses.

Creates great financial feeling, particularly for huge properties. Bigger houses well over 3,000 sq ft could run up very high power bills during winter. Geothermal power aids decrease power bills with no unusually huge original expenses.

A great choice for the new household. This kind of system is super easy to put in when the home is while in the construction phase and will pay back the first investment a lot more over the years. It's usually an even more hard and costly proposition to set up it into a present residence.

It boosts built-in home price. The function of the built in geothermal heating systems adds value towards the residence and helps it be differ from others.

Negatives

Initial investment is high. This can result in the house owner constructing a property with limited funds may not be ready financially to invest in a geothermal energy system.

The place is all crucial. The property need to have a geothermal spot in the area.

Kind of rock. Not only is area a significant qualification, even so the rocks also have to be of the ideal type to get drilled.

Not necessarily "Old Dedicated". Very often geothermal task will take a rest after getting constant in generating energy for several years.

You can't move this energy over long distances. While we can carry fuels similar to coal, petroleum and natural gas in the resource to the user many kilometers away, this is not an option with geothermal energy.

The danger of geothermal gases. Making use of this energy might cause the making of potentially harmful chemicals as well as gases just like hydrogen sulfide.

Despite a few negatives, geothermal heating systems can save you a large amount with your heating bills - which usually alone is a great enough reason to think about it.

Great Reasons to Use Solar Patio Lights

2010-12-12T22:38:00.000-08:00

The patio is one of the great lifestyle features of any home. This is where the family can relax, where friends can be entertained, just a great place to put your feet up and enjoy a lazy summer’s day. At night, particularly in the warm weather, it's the entertaining area for parties and those fabulous alfresco dinners. Solar patio lights are becoming extremely popular, and for very good reasons.

Patio lighting

Everybody has their own tastes regarding external lighting, and a large area like a patio really does involve making a few decisions about how you want the area to be lit. Most people don't like really garish lights, and let's face it, nobody likes the power bills much, either.

Good lighting also involves design, and as most people know only too well, working with wiring for external areas is very much an acquired taste. Few homeowners are overjoyed with the idea of putting live electrical fittings in areas where they might get wet or need servicing.

There’s a further complication in the fact that external lighting can be quite difficult to install in some places. Installation can involve quite literally taking apart parts of the house, which is both expensive and in some cases more trouble than it's worth. There's only so much the average human being is prepared to do to install a light globe.

Solar patio lights

Solar patio lights have turned out to be the ideal solution to all these issues. They're cheap, efficient and they don't need wiring. A typical solar stake light provides subdued lighting around the external areas of the house, and the more powerful solar mag and spot lights can do the job where stronger lighting is required.

Solar lights are also a lot easier to work with in areas with complex designs. If you have a patio which includes a pergola, you may want a range of lighting effects to highlight the various external features. This is a lifestyle choice, and fortunately for consumers there's a gigantic range of choices available in types and sizes of solar lights.

There's no need to worry about style issues, either. Ever since solar light designers found out that you can put a solar light in practically any form of cover, everything from solar light garden gnomes to solar light fish have been coming on the market regularly.

There's a further advantage in solar lights which rarely gets a mention. Solar lights are very easy to manage, and because they're not actually fittings it’s very easy to get repair work done if necessary. Most of the smaller lights can simply be replaced, without fuss. The bigger lights are all portable and in most cases all that ever needs to happen is to simply change a globe and perhaps the odd wiring replacement once in a blue moon.

Solar patio lights are so popular and so useful that they're actively replacing many of the old external lighting systems. They’re certainly far more cost-effective, and generally pay for themselves in power savings within the first year. If you're looking for great lighting for your patio, start with solar.

How to Generate 3,000 Subscribers in 30 Days...

2010-12-10T07:51:00.000-08:00

With Christmas around the corner and the New Year coming right up, I know that many of you wish you had more traffic to your stores. This is the time of the year when most retailers make most of their money and so should you. After all traffic is the main road to your success. As you know I do not usually send out tips on Internet Marketing, but I feel an exception is acceptable in this case. So I decided to give you an early Christmas Present.

I want to tell you a little secret...One of my favorite bloggers online is Kim Roach over at BuzzBlogger.com. I have been following her for some months and some of her tips made a big difference for our blog http://designstyleguide.net/community/ and YouTube Channel http://www.youtube.com/user/DesignStyleGuide bringing us thousands of subscribers and tens of thousands of views.

Kim is one of those rare finds in the IM space that consistently provides tremendous value in everything she does. She's a country gal at heart but don't let that fool you... She's been beating out many of the big-name gurus with her southern belle charm. In fact, many refer to her as the 'Traffic Queen'. Which from what I've seen is certainly a worthy title.

At the ripe 'ol age of 25 she's managed to unlock the secrets to massive traffic...testing and tweaking
new traffic strategies... plus adding her own little twists and tricks.

And unlike most other marketers, she spends most of her time in the trenches, locked up in the marketing laboratory - cookin' up more juicy traffic goodness. But every once in a while she surfaces back up into the
real world to share her latest findings.

If you'd like to see what she's been cookin' up in the lab lately go now to:

http://buzzblogger.com/td/?e=DSG

Kim's has unlocked her very best traffic strategies in her latest product called 'The Traffic Dashboard'. It's a complete training center that contains over 20 of Kim's top traffic getting methods.

These traffic techniques are really quite unique as you can see for yourself by taking a look inside the member's area...

Traffic Dashboard - a sneak peek inside...

Inside 'The Traffic Dashboar' Kim shows you how to go from nothing to over 3,000+ subscribers in just 30 days. (all in step-by-step detail).

You literally point and click your way to increased traffic with Kim's unique dashboard design. (as seen above) You have to actually TRY to mess this one up! Because the point-and-click learning system forces you to take action.

Here's a sneek peak at what you'll find inside...

An underground tool for extracting exactly where your competitor's website traffic is coming from. (If you thought Alexa was cool imagine knowing EXACTLY how much traffic your competitors were getting each day and knowing exactly where that traffic was coming from.)

"James Bond" tactics for spying on your competitors and forcing them to hand over all of their hard-earned, battle-tested,profit-busting strategies.

A super simple method for cramming your opt-in list with 200-400 subscribers in a single day...(and NO this has nothing to do with ad swaps)

A really cool strategy that shows you how to get 10x MORE traffic from EVERY article you write.

As many of you probably already know, traditional article marketing is becoming less and less effective. What worked in 2004 simply doesn't cut it anymore.

So Kim show's you 10 different ways to re purpose your content for additional traffic and exposure. Use just a couple of the strategies in this video and you'll have no excuse for not getting AT LEAST a couple hundred visitors for every article you publish.

... and that's just the tip of the iceberg!

This thing is packed with over 8 hours of juicy traffic goodness... NO fluff... NO filler.

With over 8 hours of step-by-step video and enough how-to information to DESTROY literally
every question, worry and problem you've ever had in regards to traffic.

A Word of Warning: There's just ONE caveat to this product. In fact, these traffic methods will NOT work in all situations. In order for these traffic strategies to reap their full power - you MUST be creating HIGH QUALITY CONTENT! (not some auto-generated content that not even your momma would
be proud of...)

If you think you're going to slap together some useless crap, throw up some auto-generated sites and have thousands of visitors pouring in...This course is NOT for you.

This training course was created specifically for people who are looking to build REAL businesses online... People who are dedicated to providing top-notch value for their visitors, subscribers, and customers.

This is something Kim stresses a lot, and I agree. If you're not willing to take the time and effort to put together some really good content and offer real value, then don't bother with 'The Traffic Dashboard'. It will just be a waste of time for you if you don't have good content in place.

But...

If you are dedicated to building a REAL business online and providing your visitors with REAL VALUE then 'The Traffic Dashboard' will help you to grow your business 10x faster.

Plus, at an affordable price to boot!

So, if you're ready to turn on the traffic tap, then click on the link below...
http://buzzblogger.com/td/?e=DSG

There are no “tricks”, or “magic traffic buttons” here, just proven traffic strategies that are designed to generate traffic as quickly as possible.

Plus, for those of you who are more advanced, Kim combines old school tactics with new traffic twists and tips that you won't want to miss...

http://buzzblogger.com/td/?e=DSG

Christmas Decor Under $50

2010-12-01T10:15:00.000-08:00

FAUX MOSS WREATH & TREE $39.00

SNOW GLOBES $25.00

PAPER WREATH $31.00

ICE MEDALLION PILLOW COVER $29

classic pieces and decorative accents that make your rooms ready for Christmas in minutes. Complete your modern style house with beautiful contemporary accessories and modern furniture at a great price.

1 Minute to Inspire - Floral Creations by POMA

2010-11-30T06:12:00.000-08:00

Get this Look for Less...Pink and White living room

2010-11-29T15:59:00.000-08:00

Get This Look for Less...

Pink and white living room is not very common. It’s just so fresh and fun and at the same time clean and sophisticated. The designer opted for a different shade of pink inside each of the built in shelves, very unexpected. Cherry Blossom Pillow Cover would be a great addition.

See More Details:

http://www.designstyleguide.net/listingDetails.php?li=5880

Get Inspired:

http://www.designstyleguide.net/gallery.php

Brown Beauty - Treasury

2010-11-29T15:29:00.000-08:00

A Treasury Created by New Prospect Pottery, LLC. Come and vote before 12/06/2010 here

http://www.designstyleguide.net/treasuryList.php

Make Room for the Holidays

2010-11-01T11:48:00.000-07:00

There is nothing better than finding great deals for holiday presents and getting FREE SHIPPING. As our special gift to you, West Elm offers Free Shipping on many of gift items this season.

Here are some of them:

mini-ceramic-bowling-pin

footed-mercury-hurricanes

kraft-snowflake-wreath

To request a catalog

Outdoor modern accesoories

2010-09-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost over, but it is not too late to add some new accessories to your patio for some outdoor fun. One of the reasons I like to buy new accessories at this time of the year is because you can get most of them at a great discount.

Using pillows is one of the fastest way to upgrade the look of your bench or out doorseating.

Look at the

Summer Tile Outdoor Pillow

Colorful geometric shapes catch the eye and brighten the great outdoors. Perfect for pool, patio or porch.

Durable water- and UV-fade-resistant poly.

Complete your modern style patio with beautiful contemporary accessories and modern furniture at a great price.

Modern Bedroom

2010-08-03T22:06:00.000-07:00

One of the easiest ways to create a modern bedroom is to add modern bedding. Layer your bed with quilts, duvets and sheet sets from luxurious modern bedding collections and you do not need to do much else to achieve the look you want. Bedding accessories should include smart, simple solids, organic cotton bedding, and graphic prints.

Here are some examples of graphic prints bedding:

Complete your modern style bedroom with beautiful modern bedding and modern furniture at a great price.

Modern Furniture

2010-07-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

Modern furniture refers to furniture produced from the late 19th century through the present that is influenced by modernism. It was a tremendous departure from all furniture design that had gone before it. Dark or gilded carved wood and richly patterned fabrics gave way to the glittering simplicity and geometry of polished metal. The forms of furniture evolved from visually heavy to visually light.

The use of new materials, such as steel in its many forms; molded plywood and plastics, were formative in the creation of these new designs. They would have been considered pioneering, even shocking in contrast to what came before.

Complete your design style with fantastic modern furniture at a great price.

Modern Style

2010-06-04T18:29:00.000-07:00

Modern Style is often described as Clean-lined, this approach focuses first and foremost on function and avoids the excessive accessories evident in many other styles. Another trend that is very popular is to combine elements of modern style with other decorating styles. For example Asian Modern or Rustic Modern. Some people shy away from the modern design because they think it is too simple, harsh or cold. In contrary, when well planned it can promote a sense of serenity and simplicity to your home. Complete your design style with fantastic modern furniture at a great price.

Design Style Guide Easter Giveaway is here

2010-03-20T22:40:00.000-07:00

It is Super Easy to Enter. We will have 8 winners and our Grand Prize is worth $225.

http://designstyleguide.net/community/blog/2010/03/20/our-easter-giveaway/

This Giveaway will end on April 3rd

Check out Turquoise Inspiration

2010-03-12T18:30:00.001-08:00

I want you to take a look at: Turquoise Inspiration

Finding The Table Of your Dreams

2010-03-10T07:44:00.000-08:00

Not many people think when they sit in the comforts of their homes, how important a table is in relationship to the rest of the furniture. If you didn't have tables your room wouldn't be complete.

One of the biggest investments you may ever make next to bedroom furniture is designing your dining room. This is an elegant room in any home with the hutches displaying china, butler's tables, linens, and more. The table of course is the main attraction. There are several chic looks that will add luxury to your room. There are tables with leafs, round tables, squares, and more.

When you decide it's time to furnish your room with a table, the style and size will be dependent on the amount of space you have and the furniture you want the table to compliment or the room you want to enhance. There are table that'll fit any style to create any look.

Start with thinking about the size of the dining table. An ideal way would be to think about the size of the room where the table has to be placed. It is proportional to the size of the dining table. A bigger room calls for a bigger table to harmonize the size of the room. A smaller room needs a smaller table.

Although, this is not the only criteria for the size of the snacking table. You would also want to keep in mind that all your family members should be able to sit around the snacking or eating table. Try getting a table that has chairs for all your family members keeping a spare chair or two for an unexpected guest.

Another step is to think about the shape of the table. If you want an intimate setting then the square table is best. This will seat four diners comfortably and it will save a little space in your room.

The table that is a rectangle in shape will not only seat more diners but it will make the smaller room look more spacious. If you want a table that makes conversation easier than a round table is a good choice. With the round shape the diners are not straining to see each other down the length of a long table but the round sized table will consume a lot of space.

Once you determine what size and shape dining tables the room can accommodate look at colors. For colors of the dining table, go for the scheme that goes with the rest of the furniture.

For height of the table, make sure that you don't have to bend to eat or to reach high to the table. It should be in level with elbows and abdomen while in a sitting position. Go for a modern yet subtle look since dining tables have to be kept for longer periods of time than any other piece of furniture.

Another factor is to look at the room to see if you would like to create a formal dining room or an informal dining room. The nearby furniture and décor will help make the best decision.

When choosing a table it is often easiest to select the design, then look for the material that is best suited for the activities that will take place on the table. The tables that are best suited for growing families can be attractive and still be functional for all members of the family.

Finding the table of your dreams is not hard. Before you buy, take the time to shop and compare online. You will get a view of the unique designs and styles that will add beauty to not only your room but your home and meet your needs.

How to decorate your childs bedroom

2010-03-06T04:30:00.000-08:00

Do you want your children to dream fairies and angels when they sleep? Well you need to then assure that you decorate your child's sleeping room not just lavishly but also reasonably so that the colours and the room's environment motivate and promote the kids.
Here are some quick ideas that you could use to creatively decorate your child's room and feel proud when your child loves to stay in that room. Gone are the days when people used to decorate the boy's room in blue and girl's room in pink. Try to use attractive but sober shades so that it gives more of a pleasant environment. The next most important thing is the bedding. Always make sure that this goes along with the colour of the walls. It need not be the same and as that might result in a monotonous look. Ensure that the bed spread on the bed has an image like a Spiderman if it is a boy or a Barbie if it is a girl. You could also use Peppa pig toys.
Use the radium effect on the ceiling with the moon, the stars and the asteroids so that it gives an impression of a sky in the night. This is simple and you could do it yourself as these are just stickers that you need to adhere on the ceiling with a white backdrop. Ensure that there is an attractive rug that is put right beside or before the bed.
Always ensure that the room has a natural ventilation to bring in fresh air and light. Apart from the natural light you could go for lamp shades that give bright light and do not make it dull looking. The curtains and the window shades should be bright coloured but not gaudy. They should be able to prevent light entering the room in the nights so it does not disturb your kid. Always assign a corner for your kid's study place with a table and a chair and also try to put up some art work so that your kid feels proud to show his room to any visitor.

Cleaning Tips for 2010

2010-03-06T04:25:00.000-08:00

For you, how important is cleanliness? Do you like living in a house that is full of mess and dirt? I'm sure you don't. Living in a dirty house is not pleasurable, but the thought of maintaining its cleanliness is tedious, too. Make sure this new year you give your house the cleanliness it deserves.
Plan a schedule. I know most of us are busy with our lives, we work more than 8hours a day, take care of the children, cook meals, run errands, etc. We don't have time to commit at least 5 hours a day for cleaning or sometimes we prefer not to. The better way is to manage your hectic schedule and find time where you can have a one on one session with your house.
Motivate yourself. Cleaning is not everyone's favorite activity, and we also don't want to make ourselves miserable by doing it. You have to ask yourself, why are you cleaning? Because you are asked to or because you want to? Look forward for the positive results. Enjoy cleaning. Wear those comfortable clothes, put those upbeat and fun music, and reward yurself after doing it.
Have a plan. No plan of attack results to inefficiency. Before starting, plan on what part of the house you will begin cleaning. Having a sense of direction can touch all the areas of the house that probably you might forget when cleaning.
Mix your own cleaning solutions. Sure you can buy those commercialized cleaning solutions out there. But in the middle of your cleaning session and you find out that you ran out of this and that, it is hassle to dress up again and head to the nearest store. In your own home you can find good alternatives. You can use Ammonia, diluted with 3 parts water in an empty spray bottle can be used to clean windows, appliances and countertops. Full strength it can remove wax build-up from the kitchen floor. 1/2 cup vinegar mixed with 1 tablespoon salt is an excellent way to scrub copper and brass. Using pine oil in full strength is great for deodorizing garbage cans, as well as scrubbing the kitchen and bathroom floor. Instead of scouring powder, you can also use baking soda to remove stains and odors from refrigerators and coffee pots. Sprinkling dry baking soda before vaccuming will freshen up the carpets.
Green cleaning. Cleaning Do not limit cleaning only inside your house and around your front yard and back yard. Environment should also be included. It is not hard or complicated. Begin with your own, simple way. Keep away with toxins and imporve your home which affects the bigger picture. Switch to eco-friendly alternatives and make your own cleaners. Observe proper waste disposal, conserve water and recycle.
Our house should be our protection right? If you do your job well, it can do its job well for you too. Keeping your house clean is your number one job. Time is not a hindrance and a reason why you are not able to maintain the cleanliness. The home is where everything starts, so it is better to keep it safe and clean.

How to make the most of colour and tone in painting

2010-03-05T09:10:00.000-08:00

A significant part of any painting, whether a pet portrait or abstract picture, is the relationship in colour and tone. Tone is the level of light and shade in the picture, it exists independently of colour and can be calculated on a scale which goes from white through greys to black. The awareness of colour is created by the eye's response to light in different wavelengths; pure colour exists only as light, and as far as painters are concerned, all colours are also modified by tonal value. Pigments are not pure colours, and their range and behaviour is completely different, so painters can only hope to imitate the true colours of nature, by being adept at using their palette and visual tricks. Paintings are not mirrors, but abbreviations of reality, which make sense if key colours, tones and outlines have an internal logic and consistency.

Controlling light
Since colour and tone are both dependant on light, it is a great help if both the lighting the subject, and the environment in which the painter works, is kept under control. Portrait painters usually prefer to light their subjects from only one direction, enabling them to become familiar and easily predict the way the light falls on a face. Others will choose to paint at a particular time of day when the lighting conditions are an average quality, and shadow lengths are suited the painters style. An additional technique uses diffused light, which softens light and removes harsh shadows. To accomplish this, paper saturated with drying oil and allowed to dry can be used to cover windows, or pasted onto screens to create the desired result. If you use pale coloured paper it also has the benefit of harmonizing the colours in the subject. This is also a useful trick if you are having to paint in a room which is subject to full sun. Alternatively, studios that are too dark should be painted white to reflect as much light as possible back into the room.

Using a Claude glass
A Claude glass is a black-coated mirror used to assess the tonal relationships in a picture. Being black, it nullifies the colours in the subject reducing them to tonal values. This then makes it simple to see the tonal relationships in the picture with any errors quickly being shown. You can make your own Claude glass by painting one side of a piece of glass with black paint or by placing a piece of smoked glass in front of a mirror. For landscape paintings, it often better to use a Claude glass with a curved surface, this enables you to regard the scene in its entirety.

Your palette
Above all, it is important that you know and understand the colours you use on your palette. This will only come with experience, but to be a great colourist an artist has to know how colours relate to each other, how each individual colour reacts when blended and how well it performs as tints. Skillful colourists exploit favored colour effects, tending to use a limited palette of colours but knowing and understanding them perfectly.

OUR VERY OWN FIRST SWEEPSTAKES

2010-03-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

OUR VERY OWN FIRST SWEEPSTAKES IS HERE!

We are excited to announce that from now on we will be running our very own SWEEPSTAKES every month.

The winner will win 1 YEAR 3 STAR MEMBERSHIP PACKAGE – FREE (value of $64)

If you already have listings on our main website http://www.designstyleguide.net, you will be automatically entered, however if you tweet the message it will give you an additional entry .

If you do not have any listings on our main website – enter our sweepstakes today for a chance to win. Only those applicants that have their own online store – selling handmade items related to Home Decor will qualify.

ENTER HERE

Good Luck!

New Furniture In The Home?

2010-03-04T05:40:00.002-08:00

It does seem like a bit of a strange question but the chair is a very important part of the home and each room usually has a different style unless of course you are in your mid 90's and have the same chairs across the house to match both your carpet and your old fashioned wallpaper.

Is there a way you can tell what furniture is right for each room? Well the first thing you may want to think about doing is getting in an interior designer in as the will know the best thing to do with your home. Although many people think that their jobs are very pointless indeed if you hired one just for a couple of days you would really start to see how they could help you out, they can suit to people with low budgets or people that like a very strange style.

Of course you could just take a trip to the furniture online as this way you get to choose everything yourself. However the one disadvantage you have for shopping in store is that you always get that irritating sales guy badgering on about how you should get this and how you should get that.

But it is also true to say that there are disadvantages of shopping online an it would seem that the major one is that you cannot get a good feel for the furniture.

So it is really up to you what kind of furniture you buy whether it is modern furniture or not you will know what kind to get once you really start to inspect the room.
One of the best ideas to take is to take a good look around the house to see the best route to go down first, always try to do one room at a time.

Unusual gifts for all the family

2010-03-04T05:40:00.001-08:00

The common hot water bottle seems to do the opposite to some furry mammals, who at this time of the year are beginning to hibernate. Until it senses the first signs of a chill, it lurks in the corner of some cupboard or box. Then, voila! It sits there at the bottom of the bed
Of course this is nonsense, but I just wanted to highlight that for most of us hot water bottles are. I can't even remember the last time that I actually bought one. it would have probably been a last minute Christmas present for an elderly relative.
We as as nation still appear to be 'tied' totally to them. We were once as a nation ridiculed by a Hungarian born author, George Mikes. He is quoted as saying "Continental people have sex lives, the English have hot water bottles", in his funny book entitled 'How to be an alien'. It is possible that there was an element of truth in the parody, especially in the days when designs were bland and uninteresting. These are adjectives that probably match a typical continental view of Anglo Saxon sex.
But wait a minute! Things have changed. i wouldn't have believed it, but these things are actually now considered to be 'sexy'? I found this site the other day that stocks styles and shapes that are quite different. If I was ever searching for an unusual gift to buy, special objects not normally seen in the shops, this place would be the place begin looking. They have everything here, from a buddha statue to retro phones, and most things in between!
For anyone interested solely in hot water bottles, the ones that appealed to me were the cushioned shaped products. These looked extremely comfortable, and may even offer great therapeutic value - especially to sufferers of aching necks and lower backs. They are made from 100% recyclable materials, and are guaranteed not to fade - perfect for the environmentally conscious.

Renovation Project Using Natural Wood? Don't Forget To Treat It With Hard Wax Oil

2010-03-04T05:40:00.000-08:00

Osmo Polyx Oil and Fiddes Hard Wax Oil both provide great protection for any wood surfaces around the house, but is one superior?

As many homeowners look to renovate, not relocate, the popularity of natural wood flooring and kitchen surfaces has increased.Synthetic materials could never create the effect and style of a room like a new hardwood floor or some natural wood kitchen cabinets.

You Need To Protect Your Wood!

Although natural wood surfaces require a bit more attention and special care, it doesn't have to be a chore. It doesn't even require a professional's touch to maintain the beauty of the wood. Several products currently on the market make it easy for the average do-it-yourself enthusiast to keep those natural surfaces looking top-notch.

Of course, a durable, long-lasting and easy-to-maintain product is needed for high-traffic areas.The finish will also need to be non-toxic if small children will be crawling and playing on the floors. Many types of wood oils are available, but general consensus says that a quality hard wax oil is just the ticket.

Why Hard Wax Oil?

Hardwax oil is one of the most versatile and easy-to-use products around. Not only is it suitable for use on most interior wooden surfaces including wooden flooring, kitchen worktops, cupboards, skirting, spindles, doors and furniture, but even unsealed terracotta tiles and quarry tiles will benefit due to their porous, wood-like properties.

Matte, satin and satin gloss finishes are currently available, making it perfect for almost any job.Application is a breeze, too: just use a good quality cloth, floor applicator, or paintbrush...basically, use whatever best-suits the job to be done. There's hardly any smell, and it penetrates the wood to provide a finish that is tough and resistant to wear and liquids.

If Price Is A Factor

The first and most obvious difference is price. On average, the cost-conscious consumer can expect to save around £13-£14 (based on a 2.5 litre container) by opting for the Fiddes hardwax oil. Of course, the savings increase if a larger size is purchased. But saving money is no good if you get inferior results, so how do Fiddes Hard Wax Oil and Osmo Polyx Oil match up performance-wise?

Drying Time

Both Fiddes and Osmo wax oil provide a water-repellent seal and are easy to maintain; however, Osmo's Polyx Oil takes about twice as long to dry at approximately 8 hours per thin coat.Osmo do provide a quick-drying version, but at a higher price.

Colours

Fiddes comes in 9 satin colours including the popular walnut, whiskey, American and white, and the clear version comes in matt, satin and gloss finishes.

Osmo have clear versions on offer, in addition to the four colours in their foundation wood finish range: light oak, mid oak, dark oak and white.

Colours can be intermixed to create new ones, which helps with colour matching, and both Fiddes and Osmo hard wax oil are non-yellowing.

Ingredients

Osmo Polyx Oil contains only natural ingredients.

Fiddes Hard Wax Oil is probably 98% similar to the make-up of Osmo.

Safety

Both products are suitable for applicaton onto children's toys, having been approved by the EN71 Toy Safety compliancy test.

History

Osmo Polyx Oil, the original hard wax oil, was created six years ago by the maker of the same name.

In recent years, Fiddes have developed their own hard wax oil, which has become a popular option for many people.

Check If Samples Are Available

Of course, most retailers will allow you to purchase a sample of any product you're thinking about using. Testing a small, out-of-the-way section of the wood is also a must to ensure you're going to get the finish you desire. In addition, you should keep in mind that using a coloured hard wax oil is going to give you a different look depending on the type of wood on which it's applied - another reason to make sure you test it out before committing a large area to one particular finish.

If you would like to get an idea how a particular type of wood will look once it's been finished with a clear wax oil, simply use a little water to wet a section, wipe off the excess, then let it dry for about 10 seconds. The resulting shade is a close approximation of the finish you'll get.

Summary

For more colours and to save some money, use Fiddes Hard Wax Oil.
For 100% natural ingredients and a slightly more durable finish, use Osmo Polyx Oil.

The flexibility and protective qualities of hard wax oil is apparent, so which brand is chosen is not really so important.When a long-lasting, hard wearing finish is needed for hardwood floors, cabinets, work surfaces or even children's toys, hard wax oil is a must-have.

Make Furnishing Your Home Environmentally Friendly

2010-03-04T05:35:00.000-08:00

If you are always looking for ways to make your home greener, you've probably seen this post title many times before. Despite the title of this post suggesting it's a standard 'make your home greener' post, it's not.
The majority of the other posts are based on improving your home and how you can save money in the process. They tend to talk about having loft insulation, double glazing, not leaving your TV's on, things like that. This post is all about, what you can do after you've done all that.
Although you may have managed to stop your home from wasting so much energy, there is one aspect that's commonly forgotten. Every so often we decide to redecorate our homes, this often leads to changes in everything from wallpaper tobathroom accessories.This is where you can make some improvements.
When buying new furniture, you rarely think about the environmental consequences. I guess it's a tough enough job to find something that everyone likes, without it being environmentally friendly too. But when you think about it, a lot of energy has gone into making these products. They tend to be constructed in large factories which waste large amounts of energy, they are then shipped back to the UK after being made abroad.
Fortunately, due to everyone becoming more aware of our impact on the environment, many retailers are offering greener, more eco-friendlyhome furnishings.
From everything fromtableware to kitchen accessories, there are lots of products out there that you can buy that are better for the environment. All these little things, and big things, that you need to buy for your home have an impact on the environment. This is something that should be in the minds of everyone when it comes to furnishing your home. Reducing the amount of actual energy your home wastes isn't the only way you can reduce your home's impact on the planet. Although it can't be avoided with some home accessories, you'd be surprised at how many you really can buy that are more environmentally friendly.

Best Way To Use Glass When Decorating

2010-03-03T03:35:00.001-08:00

Interior design has evolved over the decades and indeed centuries. Trends and materials have moved into and out of fashion and availability, and it is possible to identify different periods of history from decor alone. It has often been the case that interior design fashion was influenced by the aristocracy and glassware has always been an important part this. Good pieces of glass have always had some level of expensive attached to them and this has meant they have always been considered something of a luxury. Because glass has always been associated with good form (often over function), it has remained a staple ingredient in many interior design work. But how do you get the most out of it?

Minimising colour scheme. Whilst coloured glasses can look very attractive, it is all too easy to get carried away and mix too many colours of glass-vases or glass bowls together for example. If you don't want to end up with your rooms looking there has been a paintball fight going on in them, you should not go crazy with the colours. It is a much better idea to stick to two or three colours or use different shades of one colour scheme.

Use to improve light. The ability of glass to refract light entering a room and re-distribute it in multiple directions has made it a very valuable tool or manipulating light. Of course this is most effective when the glass is thinner and has lower levels of pigment, but thicker glass can still work when the light is quite intense. In rooms with low light, you can place some vases or wine glasses near the window and it will help move the light deeper into the room, and avoid it being concentrated in only one area.

Mix with opposites. It is often the case that opposite work well together in interior design. Glass is well known for having a shiny and polished finish, and with this in mind it often works incredibly well in interior design when placed alongside less reflective and more rough materials. A pair of whisky-glasses and decanter set to a background of concrete or brushed steel works really well for example. Or what about using a glass chandelier against an artex ceiling (not that artex looks good)?

How To Make Whitewash Furniture

2010-03-03T03:35:00.000-08:00

whitewash furniture has peaks and troughs in its popularity. Currently it has found its popularity has reached new heights and pieces have been known to sell for incredible amounts of money. There are places that you can buy high quality white furniture such as beds and bedside tables for good a good price, but if you want to make your own here is how.

1.First you need to sand down whatever pierce of furniture you wish to whitewash. This can be done just by using a piece of sandpaper or an electrical sanding device. If the piece has many layers of paint on it, you might need to use chemical paint stripping.You then need to clean the wood thoroughly to remove all dirt, dust and sawdust. Wait for wood to dry

2.Next find a container and mix two parts white paint (ideally latex paint) with one part water. you need to get hold of a 3" high quality paint brush and make sure you have a moist clean cloth to wipe away any mistakes you make. Using long sweeping strokes, brush over the wood following the grain. because the paint is watery, the wood will soak it up so you need to make sure you go over each patch well.

3.When the piece is completely covered and still damp, wipe over it with a clean cloth until the grain starts to show through again. This is give the wood a light stain look but if you want a deeper more expensive look, just repeat the previous steps as many times as you like, four should do it though.

4.When you achieve a look that you are happy with, give the wood another light sanding down to expose the grain and and then seal the wood using a satin clear polyurethane. let the substance dry before taking an abrasive nylon pad to it and rubbing gently over it. Repeat this as many times as you like until you get a look you like. Use this method to create a great white wardrobes, bedside table or even dresser.

2010 SPRING COLOR TRENDS.

2010-03-02T20:29:00.000-08:00

Design Style Guide talks about 2010 SPRING COLOR TRENDS.

Designers bring splashes of sunshine for spring 2010. Vibrant brights add a sense of excitement to the color palette, while practical neutrals provide a safety net for cautious consumers.
Spring hues featuring light colors white or pink are ideal for a girl's bedroom this year. Using a polka dot pillow as inspiration is the main point for a focal wall for this room. The whole effect is even more highlighted by using polka dots in 2 different sizes in the same room. Damask fabric in apple green complements the vivid pink wall, while a white headboard and bedding give the space a crisp, fresh look. Because of the simplicity of this design and clean lines the colors contrast really well with each other. I also like the small details like black outlines on pillows.

Design Style Guide finds some accessories perfect for this room.

Tips for the best way to paint these pretty polka dots on the walls, ceilings or anywhere else you want to put polka dots! The instructions for this polka dot painting technique very is simple.

1. Go to to the kitchen and find one, larger round dish like a plate to use as a template.
2. Simply trace the cirles in the pattern of your choice.
3. A flat painted surface is preferable to a semi-gloss or eggshell paint. To get good adherence, the shine has to be removed from the original surface for each and every painted circle or polka dot.
4. You might have better control of your painted patterns using sponges although with sponge painting your polka dots will have a slightly differnt and textured look.

If you don't feel confident about painting polka dots on the wall, you may want to give painting polka dots by using stencil patterns a shot or purchase white circle wall decalls that are the same size and simply adhear them to the wall. If you simply do not have time and do not mind the cost than simply find a wall paper with large polka dots and you are set.

8 day cuckoo clock spices up your home

2010-03-02T07:45:00.001-08:00

As we all know by now, it was during the mid 1700s that the world famous cuckoo clock, famed for its beauty and craftsmanship, originated in the deep and cold black forest region of Germany and Bavaria. This writing is a discussion of the high quality 8 day cuckoo clock.

Cuckoo clock lovers choose the 8 day cuckoo clock for its antique value and quality. These clocks are needed to be rewind every 8 days. When the clock strikes a full hour, the uniquely crafted door will open and the cuckoo bird will call out the number of hours.

For example, the cuckoo bird will croon 5 times when it's 5 o' clock. The bird also announces the half hour as the clock strikes.

To distinguish between the 1 day and 8 day cuckoo clock, you can look at the weights. The weights in the 1 day cuckoo clock are usually smaller, lighter than the ones in the 8 day cuckoo clock. These 8 day cuckoo clocks are relatively more expensive than the 1 day cuckoo clocks. An 8 or the letter A is usually written on the 8 day cuckoo clocks to denote their 8 day mechanical movement.

There is also the 8 day musical cuckoo clock. So what are the differences? Again this 8 day cuckoo clock is quite similar to its previous variety I mentioned above. One distinct feature, as its name suggests, is that the 8 day musical cuckoo clock can also play music and sometimes may even have more animations. Wind up every 8 days is still required.

Every hour, a cuckoo bird will come out of its gate and announce the number of hours. This is usually followed by a special melody. As the clock strikes the half hour, the cuckoo bird will call out once by a different melody. A rotating drum is used to alternative different tunes every hour.

In the musical 8 day cuckoo clock, M indicates music, while 8 or A indicates the 8 day mechanical movement. You may also find a T sign that denotes movable objects like animals, water mills, moving dancers or other things that can turn or move.

2010-03-02T07:45:00.000-08:00

Preserved plants and flowers : how to keep them safe

Preserved floral decoration

Floral DIY enthusiasts know since long time how to use silk flowers to create floral arrangements.

Considering the success that preserved flowers are having , and the fact that preserved flowers are conquering a large slice of the market belonging to silk flowers , Il Numero Verde decided to release this small How-to to help our customers ( and potential ones ) to better understand how to use at best their brand new preserved flowers.

This tutorial is organized in small paragraphs to be easy to understand and put in practice .

1- HINTS TO KEEP YOUR PRESERVED FLOWERS

This is a small list of practices to avoid damaging your preserved roses

- keep them beetween 12 and 28 Celsius degrees

- do not water them

- avoid touching petals and parts of the flowers with water

- keep them in dry environments without dust

- do not put them out of the boxes until you have to use them

- do not keep them less than 50 cm to warm electrical lights , because on a long exposition to hot lights preserved flowers will begin to lose colour

2 - BEST USE PRACTICE

To avoid ruining your preserved flowers while you are using them ( for example : by breakingleaves ) follow these giudelines :

- when you fix preserved heads with glue , always wait 10 seconds before putting the flower's head at contact with the hot glue

- if you fix with iron wire , never insert the wire form the bottom of the head but always from one of its side . This will avoid the bud to crush or lose petals

- although the quality of foam is not a must , use professional foams when working with preserved flowers , for example choose the brand Oasis to be sure that your stems won't suffer or dry

- do not use preserved flowers or petals with cold glue or adhesive tape beacuse petals will get damaged

- do not mix in the same floral arrangement preserved flowers and fresh cut flowers , because when people will water the fresh ones , the preserved flowers will get damaged . But you can mix without problems preserved roses and artificial greenery

We hope these small hints will help you enjoying the best results possible with your beautiful preserved flowers. And if you are looking for preserved flowers have a look at our online boutique , proudly specialized in providing to floral professionals the best preserved plants since 1999.

Don't let muddy colours spoil your paintings

2010-03-01T23:35:00.000-08:00

Whether an artist is specialising in pet portraits, landscapes, or traditional portraits, keeping colours as bright as possible is an important part of producing paintings that appear fresh an clean.

The appearance of any colour is dependant on the circumstance in which it is seen. The way a colour is seen is effected by the colours next to it and on which it is placed. For instance, yellow will seem washed out and pale next to white, but strong and bright next to black. Colour also has tone and can be put into groups. Lemon yellows, golden yellows, oranges and yellow earth colours can be subsituted for one another in mixtures or used to shade each other when describing form. Also, many colours will have an undertone, meaning that they have an element of another colour in their make-up. For instance, red may range from having pronounced yellow undertones to blue.

Laying out your palette
Firstly, the artist should always consider the permanence of his or her colours and limit these to as few as possible, try to avoid colours that are very similar. Laying out your palette properly is important, as it'll make the whole painting process easier. Messy palettes, where colours contaminate each other, muddying their appearance and hence, the appearance of the painting. For complicated techniques, that involve several stages, it's best to lay out a selection of palettes representing each stage of the process. The aim is to have colours placed far enough away from each other so that they do not get contaminated plus, the area where you mix these colours, should also be kept away from the original colours so that you keep them as bright as possible. Best practice for colour placement, is to put them in a line in order of importance along the top of the palette, so that the most used colours are within easy reach. White is ordinarily placed nearest the thumb (in the 'top' spot as it were), but some artists like to have the white in the centre of the line. If particular colour mixes or shades are anticipated, these can be laid out in lines under the main colours.

Colour mixing
The permanence of colour is decreased when mixed, a few colours can become very impermanent if diluted too much. Indeed, when mixing colours, you should keep the amount used to just two or three, this will avoid colours getting too muddy. All the same, you need to be aware that many commercial colours are already a mix of different pigments, so will be more likely to produce muddy colours if over mixed. Brighter tones can be achieved without the loss of colour saturation by mixing with sympathetic colours.

Having clean carpets is essential

2010-03-01T14:55:00.002-08:00

It's good to maintain clean carpets. If you live in Sussex, check out Carpet Cleaning Crawley who are specialists when it comes to carpet cleaning. A large quantity of dirt builds up and it is a tough task to get it all out. Because of this it is essential to keep your carpets clean.
It is recommended that you clean your carpets twice a year. In this way you can rest assured that you always have clean carpets. It could prove wise to contact a company which specialises in carpet cleaning. They have the skill to deal with lots of different fabrics. This is vital because an understanding of the chemical formulas is vital. Another good reason is that the chemicals they use are far more powerful than any you could purchase yourself.
Taking the DIY approach will mean that you'll need to obtain the right equipment. If you have many rooms to clean it might be more efficient to do your own carpet cleaning. But if your house is small consider contacting a cleaning company. If you do take the do it yourself approach make sure you know your carpets well. Depending on the type of carpet you have will determine which chemical formula you use.
It's possible to get rid of lots of bad stains by extracting them with a cleaning machine. Stains you can get rid of include food stains, alcohol stains and many other types of stains. The longer you leave a stain the more difficult it will be to remove the stain. Therefore as soon as it happens take action immediately.
At some point in time you will have to buy new carpets. An expert can advise you on whether it is a simple case of cleaning your carpet or whether you will need to purchase a new one. Normally most carpets keep for at least a decade but it depends on the amount of wear and tear.

How to Purchase Essential Home Furniture

2010-03-01T14:55:00.001-08:00

1. Before you go furnishings shopping, decide right away the minimum of what you need to purchase for each room in your home and make a list of essential home furniture. Do not forget about sizes and other preferences to the list. If you have a roommate, be sure to consider his or her opinion before purchasing furniture.

2. Stop at nothing to find wholesalers and discounters. Doing this will save you a aggregation of money. While there are sometimes minor issues on these pieces, they are ofttimes issues will not even notice. Do not over analyze a major decision, one ding will happen very easily once in your house anyway.

3. Decide on a budget. Question yourself, are you purchasing for a home apartment furniture or something else? Set a budget and stick to it. It haw mean making more than one trip to look for sales and such, but in the end it will be worth it as you won't have spent more than you can afford to.

4. Shop at stores like the Rescue Mission and Salvation Army. We have personally gotten some very nice pieces of furnishings by shopping at thrift stores. Some hardware places will clear out high quality items from their hardware areas that have been left behind by people who did not keep up their fees, or others decide they have to have new furnishings every couple of years, even though there is scarce any wear and tear on their older furniture. Whatever the reason, you can ofttimes find bargains on nearly new furnishings at second-hand stores.

5. Buy your furnishings from a furnishings warehouse where the sales clerks are paid on commission. Sometimes you can bargain with the clerk and find out that if you purchase more than one example of furnishings you can get a better and bigger discount.

Sewing Machines - What Types Are Available?

2010-03-01T14:55:00.000-08:00

Choosing the best machine for your needs can be a tedious task because there are so many models on the market. Luckily, they fall within three general types, and knowing which type you require will make your search for the perfect one significantly easier.

1) Mechanical Sewing Machines

These machines are controlled by a rotary wheel. Any adjustment, like the tension or the length, or width of the stitch, is done by simply moving a dial.

These are your no-frills machines that can support your most basic sewing needs. They are also inexpensive, making them ideal for beginners, which is why manufacturers still make them and sell them in large numbers.

If you want an easy-to-use mechanical sewing machine, then consider the Janome Magnolia 7318. It is the perfect machine for simple garmet repairs, crafting and quilting.

2) Electronic Sewing Machines

Many sewing enthusiasts oft for electronic sewing machines as they can create more in terms of stitches and patterns. The most notable thing about an electronic sewing machine is that there are some functions that can be accomplished just by pushing a button.

An electrical impulse shoots the needle up and returns it back to place in a sequence matched by the feeding mechanism which pushes the cloth through the machine. It really makes the whole process much faster.

The Singer sewing machine 7442 model is the most popular electronic sewing machines. This machine comes with hundreds of functions, push-button controls, adjustable stitch length and width and reverse stitching.

3) Computerized Sewing Machines

With the use of technology and modern innovations over the years, sewing machines are now more functional and complex, with the presence of a built in computer now being more than just a novelty.

This can really mean hands off sewing, as you just need to type in instructions, and then press a button or two. A sequence of stitches can be programmed, so you do not have to perform the exact same movements over and over again.

The Brother Quattro 600D is an ideal computerized sewing machine for all sewing enthusiasts. Regardless of whether you are into sewing, embroidery, crafting or quilting, it machine will never fail you.
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Learn more about Juki Sewing Machines or read all our sewing machine reviews at http://www.BestSewingMachineDeals.com

Making A Bird House As Well As Bird Feeder By Following Simple Blueprints

2010-03-01T03:30:00.000-08:00

If you can give birds a safe and secure protection, array of food along with treats, and clean water, you can be positive to invite the most lovely and uncommon birds into your backyard.
Bird houses
Bird houses are basically built in many dimensions as well as with a selection of different lumber varieties. The birds take pleasure in a harmless haven subject to the outside temperatures as well as predators and it allows them to nest. Birds always need somewhere to nest, so why not put up a variety of wooden bird houses in distinct dimensions meant for the birds within your area. A basic wooden bird house will be extremely simple to construct, plus will as well be a fun weekend endeavor. You will be able to find various different bird house plans by means of searching the net.
Here are some important things for you to reflect on when building your own wooden bird house:
Do research the surroundings and the different variety of birds commonly known to migrate within your territory.
Do understand the needs of the bird houses, such as the size, as well as location. Having bird house plans can give you better ideas on how to make an adequate shelter.
Don't paint, stain, varnish, or treat the inside or around the hole entry of the bird house, this is going to keep away the birds. There can be various different woods that you may employ to make your bird house, but the most frequently used is cedar. Cedar lumber is a good material which does not require to be pained, stained, or else treated.
Avoid using a perch on a bird house. By putting a perch on the bird house, the bird may become trapped indoors with panic. A perch will permit a predator bird to linger on the perch until the smaller birds to come outside.
Drill the proper entry opening for the bird you are trying to attract. Again, the importance of size. You will want to study the birds in your area after that know which ones you would be keen to invite to the backyard.
Location
The importance of a great location to correctly mount the bird house is a considerable part of your awaited new guests. When you are finished building the bird house, you will have to find a good site, that is away from any hazard, such as cats, in addition to weather. A fine location would be situated anywhere in your property that doesn't contain to much human activity, however it is capable to permit you to observe the birds with no obstruction. The bird house may be hung on a tree, otherwise mounted to a post or tree limb, and it should be situated at least 3 to 10 ft. high.
Bird feeder
Adding bird feeders to your property is another method to attract birds. As declared above, you ought to research the different variety of birds frequently known to migrate into your territory, that is going to present you certain insight as to which sort of bird feed along with treats to fill the bird feeders. When birds notice the recently built bird feeder and the wonderful treats you are providing them, you can expect to start seeing the birds collect to your backyard.
Building a simple wooden bird feeder is not complicated at all, you will acquire several ideas through searching for bird feeder plans on the net, as well as visiting a bookstore or library.
Water
Birds are also attracted by water. Birds need a water area for drinking plus for bathing. This to is a endeavor that you will be able to create on your own, or else if you do not have time purchase at a store. It is recommended that you look into different bird bath plans and see if this is a project you would enjoy to achieve. You can additionally use any shallow container to hold water. You will be able to set them on the ground or above the ground, close to the feeders would be a fine location. If you are known to contain cats in the site it would be recommended that you make it nearer and accessible to the birds so that they will not become prey to such animals.

Easy to Follow Tips on How to Make Stained Glass Step by Step

2010-03-01T03:25:00.000-08:00

How to stained glass step by step is one of the biggest questions we receive through our stained glass making website.
Below is an outline of the steps you'll follow as you create your glass art.
There are many methods and techniques and the steps we list have worked wonders for us. Take baby steps and follow a plan which is what we have provided here.
Here it is - stained glass step by step These steps can vary per project, but this provides a nice outline.
Step 1: Lead or Copper foil? We prefer copper foil when beginning. You are literally limited by your own creativity. Use your creativity.
Step 2: Get your glass and supplies/tools. There are many places to buy the items you'll need. Some are cheap and some not so cheap. Some tools you won't even use so research before you decide. Then set up your workspace. It doesn't have to be big, but does have to provide room for a small mess.
Step 3: Get comfortable with your Glass Cutter. This will be one of your most utilized tools when creating stained glass. Learn the techniques it will take to get your first piece looking beautiful.
Step 4: Do you need a grinder?? Things to consider include safety issues, choosing the right head, using water, following the right procedures, and so forth. These are all important issues when grinding.
Step 5: Working with the copper foil. This also takes some practice but because of today's ease of use, you can catch on pretty quickly.
Step 6: Soldering. There is basic soldering, spot soldering, finishing, tinning, and more soldering applications that you will want to learn on how to make stained glass step by step. Again practice with the tools as there are some that you will use quite a bit.
Step 7: Finally, clean, apply the finish, and plan to display your art. Do this as soon as you're done soldering for a clean and professional look.
There you go. Nothing to it right? This is just a simple outline - the key to any art is to learn, do, learn, do.
This is a very simple outline on how to make stained glass step by step. There are a lot of intricacies that have been left out (due to the sheer amount of info) and it is easier to follow these steps with visual pictures, video, etc. so consider that when trying to learn this art form.
If you are really serious about learning how to make stained glass, then you can save yourselves hundreds of dollars and frustration by visiting CreateStainedGlass.com where you'll find an art site filled with stained glass tips and techniques!

Oversized Wall Clock themed in unique motifs

2010-02-27T20:20:00.002-08:00

Oversized wall clock is common for outdoor decoration. These clocks, depending on your preference, can be used for indoor decoration as well. Keeping accurate time is a great feature and coupled with some great designs, the clocks are fast becoming much sought after by home owners coast to coast.
It can also offer a fresh style and d©cor to your home interior. Guests and visitors would admire them if they are prominently displayed in your home. And decorative oversized wall clocks can also blend with the wall, the color tone and the furnishings of the room. There are plenty of styles to suit your taste as well as blend with your house interior. They are also themed in different motifs offering you an excellent choice to add grace, style and beauty to your room.
It could be a country theme, a hunting theme or you could bring in loads of nature simply by picking the right clock with the right design. It brings an embracing look to your interior as the decoration and design ideas are myriad.
The oversized clock originated from ancient times and they have been prominant features in large homes. In old times, there were no wrist watches; large wall clocks are used to display time in streets. Prominent display is the hallmark of the oversized wall clock.
If you already have an oversized wall clock before designing your home interior, you can fine tune the d©cor to blend it with the classical showpiece. You can also mix and match the clock with other accessories. It can also be a central feature in your home and other objects or furniture can be set accordingly to make the area attractive.
The clock is mainly made of ceramic, plastic, wood, resins or metal. The features can be seen easily and understood.
Even people with perception problems can easily check out the timings from the oversized wall clock. Staying in large places may warrant a clock that is big in size and easy to spot from a distance. Hand crafted and designed exquisitely, the clocks are available in a multitude of design and themes. They also make fashion statements and you never cease to be the center of curiosity.
If you are given to spending more time in patios and courtyards, the unique and popular decoration can keep you in great mood continuously. They can easily attract attention and while selecting one from the different models, you may want to factor in the mood of the place. Adorning your wall or outdoors, the oversized wall clock can be a great feature for your home.

An easy guide to stretching your own canvas

2010-02-27T20:20:00.001-08:00

For a great many artists, including those who specialise in pet portraits, stretching their own canvas not just saves money on commercially prepared canvases, but also provides them with a better result. On the whole, commercially prepared canvases tend to be quite light weight with just the minimal number of primer layers needed. When we set up our own canvases we can choice the quality of canvas, stretcher bars and primer that suits our painting style, so creating something that will work perfectly with our finished painting and so have a much improved chance of standing the test of time.

Step one
The most cost effective means to purchase good quality canvas is in bulk on a roll. Assuming this is what will be used, the first step is to cut off the quantity of cloth required. Do this by assembling the stretcher bars, place the assembled frame on the canvas and draw a straight line approximately 40 mm wider than the frame on each side. This is based on using a standard stretcher bar that is about 15 mm deep, and gives sufficient canvas to fold over the stretcher bars but not so much that you have to cope with great folds of material at the corners. Cut the cloth about 5 mm outside the line (it will be trimmed down more carefully after the first application of primer).

Step two
Using your preferred primer (a universal primer is sufficient, providing a good key with good flexibility for both acrylics and oils), apply a single coat firstly to one side then, when that's dry, the other side of the canvas. Make certain you go to right to the edge, covering the line previously drawn. Once both sides are dry, trim the canvas to the line, this will all help stop the edges fraying. I also prefer to use pinking sheers for the final cut to help with this.

Step three
Canvas has a front and a back, check you have the front (the side on which you will paint) face down on a flat clean surface and place the assembled stretcher in it's centre, so that there is 40 mm additional canvas on each side. Make sure that the reverse or 'flat' side of the stretcher frame faces up, with the 'lipped' side on the canvas. Starting with one of the longer sides, fold the canvas over onto the back of the stretcher as tightly as possible, but making sure that the opposite side keeps it's 40 mm excess. Pin or staple the canvas at the centre then, whilst holding the canvas taught, approximately 40 mm from each end, leaving the corner free. When that is completed, fix the canvas in between, so that there is a pin or staple more or less every 30 - 50 mm.

Step four
Begining at the centre of the opposite side, use specialist canvas stretchers to pull the canvas over the bar. Whilst keeping this as tight as possible, pin or staple the centre point of the canvas, then 40 mm from either end, and then at points every 30-40 mm between. Now the canvas is attached across the longest sides, the same can be done to the shorter sides, pulling as out as many wrinkles as possible.

Step five
At this point, all sides are fixed, the canvas is tight over the frame, with the corners still free. To fix the corners, pull the centre point of the canvas corner over onto the back of the frame, so that it is in line with the join (the point of the corner should face inward inline with the centre of the joint). Now turn up over one of the loose sides onto the corner, followed by the other side on top of that. As all these are held in position, apply a single pin or staple to hold the folds in place (see attached photograph). This then is repeated on each corner. When finished, insert the corner wedges to tighten the canvas further and remove any minor wrinkles.

Preserve your Photographs with a Photo Scanner

2010-02-27T20:20:00.000-08:00

We all have good intentions of creating some kind of project with all of those old photos we have stuck in drawers or boxes sitting in the closet. But when do we really get around to it? We don't. They continue to sit and age. Photos become washed out, faded and damaged. We can save our photos and restore them with a photo negative scanner and believe it or not it's easy.

Your photos tell a story of your lifetime. A time capsule if you will of your early childhood continuing on to your most memorable moments like graduation, marriage and first child. We don't want to lose these precious momentos of our past. We want to keep them safe. Digitizing your photos with a photo negative scanner will protect your photos for a lifetime.

Not only will digitizing your photos save them, it will also allow you to organize them for easy access. It's so much easier to work on that special project when all of your photos are organized and easily accessable.

New photo scanners are easy to use with one touch scanning and auto color restoration. Some even remove dust and background scratches on photos. The things you can do with these new scannes is quite impressive. Not only can you scan and save your old photos but you can also save images from 35mm negatives and create .pdf files and other documents.

If you're into crafts you'll love having all of your photos scanned and digitized. You can use them to make scrapbook templates and backgrounds. Transferring photos to T-shirts and canvas bags for personalized gifts is a great idea. How about making a personalized quilt with all the photos of the grandchildren? The possibilites are endless.

Creating great projects from your old photos start with a good scan of your photos. Make sure you follow the directions for your scanner. You'll have better negative scans if you take the time to clean your negatives of smudges and fingerprints with a soft cloth before scanning.

Get out that old box of photos and start scanning. You'll never know what you'll be inpired to create.

Mattress and Bed Sizes Guide

2010-02-27T20:15:00.001-08:00

When purchasing a bed and adjoining mattress it is vital to look at the size to ensure it will fit in your bedroom and that you are getting the correct mattress size for your bed.
Below are the standard sizes for mattresses to fit all types of beds from a small single to a super king size bed, including width and height in imperial and metric measurements. Please note that although these are the exact measurements for standard mattresses, this is an approximate measurement for beds as their design may mean they are slightly bigger.
Compact single bed or mattress
Width 75cm / 2'6" / 2ft6
Height 190cm / 6'3" / 6ft3
Single bed or mattress
Width 90cm / 3' / 3ft
Height 190cm / 6'3" / 6ft3
Compact double bed or mattress
Width 120cm / 4' / 4ft
Height 190cm / 6'3" / 6ft3
Double bed or mattress
Width 135cm / 4'6" / 4ft6
Height 190cm / 6'3" / 6ft3
Queen / King sized bed or mattress
Width 150cm / 5' / 5ft
Height 200cm / 6'6" / 6ft6
Super king sized bed or mattress
Width 180cm / 6' / 6ft
Height 200cm / 6'6" / 6ft6
Click 4 Beds sells a great range of compact single, single, compact double, double, king size and super king size beds and mattresses from well known brands in a variety of types, styles, finishes and budgets to suit all tastes and preferences.

Furniture In The House

2010-02-27T20:15:00.000-08:00

It does seem like a bit of a strange question but the chair is a very important part of the home and each room usually has a different style unless of course you are in your mid 90's and have the same chairs across the house to match both your carpet and your old fashioned wallpaper.

Is there a way you can tell what furniture is right for each room? Well the first thing you may want to think about doing is getting in an interior designer in as the will know the best thing to do with your home. Believe it or not they can actually help you to decide on what furniture to get in the home no matter what you think about them and they will always advise you on the best options to take whether that is the cheapest or the best looking, you tell them the budget and they will bring in what they think is going to look good in the home.

Of course you could just take a trip to the furniture online as this way you get to choose everything yourself. However the one disadvantage you have for shopping in store is that you always get that irritating sales guy badgering on about how you should get this and how you should get that.

On the other hand there are disadvantages of shopping online and the main one is that you do not get to properly have a look at the furniture you are going to buy.

So it is really up to you what kind of furniture you buy whether it is Contemporary furniture or not you will know what kind to get once you really start to inspect the room.
One of the best ideas to take is to take a good look around the house to see the best route to go down first, always try to do one room at a time.

The new generation of silk flowers

2010-02-27T19:45:00.000-08:00

Artificial flower orchid

If about the terms "silk plants" you just think of a plastic sunflower in a corner taking dust , today you will have to completely change your mind .
Now artificial flowers do look like real , thanks to the effort of a team of floral masters who completely reivented the concept of artificial flower .
And this is dued to two upgrades in the concept of producing artificial flowers
1) Now designers use CG in the creative step
2) A new material has replaced both silk and satin , being a fusion of latex and satin.
This new generations of artificial flowers finds its focus on the feeling given in nature by the flower , and emotionally gives a perfect replica of that feeling to finallyshow silk flowers that really give you emotions .
This is expecially clear when you watch the models of artificial orchids of this collections . Being one of the flower more difficult to make with silk , the new material allows the designers to create natural flower which gives the same feelings of fresh orchids.
Another improvement of this new generation is that every artificial flower made with this new material is suitable for use both in indoors and outdoors floral arrangements. Now rain won't be able to ruin the colours of your loved silk flower.
So these artificial flowers now can be used as silk wedding flowers. Now a bouquet made with artificial flowers will look as a natural bouquet made with fresh cut flowers .
White Eagle sillk flowers are available form every artificial flower wholesale of Western Europe and USA in february 2010 .

How to properly store your belongings

2010-02-27T19:30:00.000-08:00

It's surprising how much stuff we can find ourselves owning after just a few years. When you need self-storage, a little bit of organization will go a long way in making the most of your space.Step one is find a local storage facility which fits your budget requirements.A storage unit's rental cost is determined by its size - so you need to figure out just what you are going to store so you can know how much space you require.In order to adequately plan how much space you need, and how you should distribute your belongings in that space, make a full list of everything you plan to store.

Place your heavier boxes on the bottom of stacks and the fragile items on top; leave items you will access frequently near the front.It's worth your while to be sure that your company is reputable; investigate a little to see if there have been any break-ins, flooding, or anything else that could damage your belongings.The facility should have perimeter fencing with a keypad entry, security cameras, and adequate lighting. If you are storing irreplaceable photos, you will want to be sure to choose a storage facility that offers temperature-controlled units.

Take special precaution when storing photos; these should have a sheet of archival quality paper placed between each one, and then be stacked tightly together.Take copies of any irreplaceable documents before placing them in storage.When storing electronic files or materials, it's important to protect everything with a secure password.Once you are sure you have the right amount of space, you will need to get your storage materials together.You don't want your boxes sitting directly on the floor, so the first step is to get some heavy plastic or wooden shelving or pallets. Since you are storing for the medium- to long-term, it is worth the time and expense to get standard, quality, sturdy cardboard boxes.

This makes them easier to stack, organize, label, etc., particularly if you take care not to pick overly large boxes.If your budget means that you need to get boxes or cartons from the supermarket, be sure they are intact (no tears) and have lids or closable tops so your items won't get dusty.With your boxes ready, you now need to focus on getting the right packing materials.Although it's true that your boxes won't be moved around once they are placed in storage, you want to avoid the potential for accidental damage.When choosing packing material, avoid using newspaper, which can stain - instead, try foam, bubble wrap, or even wads of regular paper.

Be careful not to overstuff your boxes, because this can cause your items to get crushed, even more so if you stack boxes.One way to prevent your objects from becoming impacted is by using cardboard dividers to separate each item from each other. Finally, reinforce all the corners with tape to increase the boxs durability.Be sure to clearly label your boxes with what is inside, as well as the word "fragile" (when applicable), on all sides.As you place and stack your boxes, keep in mind the distribution plan you created when you started this process.You should purchase a special cover for certain items like a recreational vehicle, couch, or mattress.Mildew can grow under an ordinary plastic cover, which can ruin your property; that is why you should use a specially-designed cover, or find some canvas.

Thanks for reading our article, here is some more useful information on Houston Texas Storage, Storage North Houston and storage southwest houston Take care and have a wonderful and have a great day!

WE HAVE MOVED OUR BLOG to Our DSG FREE COMMUNITY

2010-02-15T16:13:00.000-08:00

Dear Design Style Guide Members and Readers,

Our Valentine Giveaway was the last post on our blog here.We are moving our blog to a new URL.

Please Join Our Community here http://designstyleguide.net/community/
It is free for everyone and we will send you an email directly to your Inbox with each new post. You can keep up to date with all of our Giveaways and more.

Once your sign up, you can also follow our artists up close or talk to them directly.

Our Recent articles you may like:
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Register your free account today!

10 Valentine Winners!

2010-02-14T09:33:00.001-08:00

The Design Style Guide Valentine giveaway has ended and our ten winners have been picked using RandomGenerator.org. A big CONGRATULATIONS to our 10 Winners!

1.Winning $30 credit from HouseofPeltier

Shrimp Salad Circus said... 33

I tweeted!
http://twitter.com/ShrimpSalad/status/8918183288

2. Winning $25 credit from Zegami

Audrey said... 45

Forgot to add,
I tweeted this awesome give away!
Audrey

3. Winning $20 credit from DianeClancy

Donna said... 59

I folow and tweeted:
http://twitter.com/dsgnet/status/9078599848

4. Winning $20 SusanElkin

Cabootique said... 18

I love this: http://www.designstyleguide.net/listingDetails.php?li=5293
so mod and funky!

5. Winning any jewelry holder of her choice from JudiPaintedIt

Felicia Kramer said... 22

I blogged:
http://feliciakramer.blogspot.com/2010/02/design-style-guide-valentines-day.html
and reposted on Facebook.

6. Winning $20 credit from JansonPottery

buzzd said... 29

I love the Churhill clock
http://www.designstyleguide.net/listingDetails.php?li=5364

7. Winning $30 credit from diningout

sallymandy said... 7

I love many of these. Helen's giclee print is one of my favorites:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38054359

8. Winning any 8x10 from JavaJanesDesign

Sara said... 42

http://www.designstyleguide.net/listingDetails.php?li=4803
Is pretty cool - I like the use of retro fabric.

9. Winning a Giclee print of “Lovebirds” from hjmart

Montagyoo said... 14

What a fantastic giveaway!! I love this mirror:
http://www.designstyleguide.net/listingDetails.php?li=2303

10. Winning a 5x7 print of “Two Hearts One Love” from smellyrhino

brendathour said... 50

I've tweeted about the giveaway at least 3 times. Just tweeted again today.

All winners will be notified by email or through convo at their Etsy shop today, and each prize donor will be given winner’s contact info. Final arrangements for prizes will take place between donor and winner.

Thank you to all who visited our blog and took part in this Valentine giveaway!

May you have a beautiful day filled with love.

VALENTINES Design Style Guide GIVEAWAY

2010-02-02T21:22:00.001-08:00

The Design Style Guide Valentine Giveaway Event

We have 10 sponsors and that means we will have 1o winners on

Feb 14 – VALENTINES DAY!

(all 10 winners will be announced on the blog on Feb 14!)

Please browse through to see what you might win when you participate.

As with any giveaway the shipping is included with the prize.

Our first Valentine comes from:
Amy Peltier of HouseOfPeltier

She’s giving $30 credit for anything in her shop

Our second Valentine comes from:
Angelica of Zegami

a $25.00 credit for an 8x10 photograph from her shop

Our third Valentine comes from:
Diane of DianeClancy

a $20 credit for anything in her shop

Our fourth Valentine comes from:
Susan of SusanElkin

a $20 credit for anything in her shop

Our fifth Valentine comes from:
Judi of JudiPaintedIt

Any Jewelry Holder of the winners choice

Our sixth Valentine comes from:
Janet of JansonPottery

a $20 credit for anything from her shop

Our seventh Valentine comes from:
Mary of diningout

a $30 credit for anything from her shop

Our eighth Valentine comes from:
Andie of JavaJanesDesigns

Any 8x10 Photograph from her shop

Our ninth Valentine comes from:
Helen of hjmart

A Giclee Print of “Lovebirds”

And our tenth Valentine comes from:
Rebecca of smellyrhino

A 5x7 Print of “Two Hearts, One Love”

How to Enter:

To enter this fantastic giveaway – all you need to do is go to the Design Style Guide website and post the link to one item you liked in your comment here. One post about the listing you chose and you are entered into the drawing!!!

This giveaway will end on February 13th, with winners announced February 14th.

For extra entries: Would you like to increase your chances of winning? Here are a couple of ways to do that!

1: Blog about Design Style Guide website or this giveaway with a link to this post and leave a comment here with the url of your blog post.

2: Follow DSG on Twitter and tweet this giveaway. Leave ONE individual comment here that you have tweeted. (though you can retweet as many times as you want!)

We will announce all 10 of the winners on February 14th, Valentines day!

We will use Random.org to choose the winners, email the winner, and post the winning post numbers here. We will choose a number one at a time for each Valentine giveaway. So, by entering, you have the opportunity to win any one of these wonderful Valentine Giveaways! (No post number can be chosen twice.)

This giveaway is only open to US addresses, legal residents of the 50 United States and at least 18 years old at time of entry at this time..

**Note General DSG Giveaway Rules

Thank you for visiting Design Style Guide’s blog. Enjoy visiting our website and participating shops!

Featuring Design On the Bay

2010-01-18T16:49:00.000-08:00

I found some delightful and unique throw pillows by Design On the Bay,

a member of Design Style Guide.

Design On the Bay specializes in digital prints on canvas and

washable fabrics.

They are beautiful!

Design on the Bay create canvases for your walls, throw pillows and cushions.

Snow White Cat

The Beach Flower

South Point Sunset

So add some jazz to your home decor with quality handmade

products found on Design Style Guide, like Design On the Bay.

Become a fan on Facebook of Design On the Bay, and follow them on Twitter

Follow Design Style Guide on Twitter

Valentine Decor from The Design Style Guide members on Etsy

2010-01-09T13:22:00.000-08:00

As featured here.

For more Valentine ideas check our collection at DesignStyleGuide

Take the Time

2010-01-04T19:40:00.000-08:00

As the years pass us by, take
Handpainted Clock by madteapartyfurniture

to have a shiny green mug by jansonpottery
of tea

with someone you handmade journal by ElisCooke

and watch the fly away tile coasters by houseofpeltier

fly around the Falling by karenfaulknerart

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010

2010-01-01T08:26:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU FOR BEING A VALUED MEMBER

OF DESIGN STYLE GUIDE NETWORK!

TOP 10 Interior Design Blogs according to NetworkedBlogs

2009-12-31T10:40:00.000-08:00

1. Urban LifeStyle Decor
2. Tobi Fairley Interior Design
3. coco+kelley
4. Apartment Therapy
5. La Dolce Vita
6. Material Girls
7. Elements of Style
8. Design IQ
9. An Indian Summer
10. My Dog-Eared Pages

Note: This is based on the number of followers in FaceBook. I just listed our team blog there as well. If we had the same amount of followers on FaceBook as we have here, we would be #5.

If you have a FaceBook account, please follow our blog by using the widget bellow:

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Sunday Brunch

2009-12-29T21:10:00.000-08:00

For more wonderful items please visit our team website