Hanging pictures above stairs can definitely be tricky. But today I’m helping you out with some helpful tricks that won’t trip you up! Get ready to put some interesting stuff on that blank stairway wall, because it just got easier.
home decor
Faux Plants: Garden Fresh & No Water Required
Are today’s faux plants really all that fabulous? It wasn’t too long ago when you were frowned on if you opted to use fake plants in your home decor! But have no fear, my friends. Times are, as they say, “a-changin’.” Today’s faux plants are pretty brilliant. They do look absolutely garden fresh, but no water or light is required to keep them looking fresh & fine forever!
Why use faux plants?
Those frowned-on fake silk plants from just a couple of decades ago have come a long way! You know, those plants that looked fake from a mile away? Well, today’s faux beauties are made of infinitely better materials, like plastics and fabrics that are very realistic in look, feel and texture. Think of the last time you saw a pretty houseplant in someone’s home and didn’t realize that it was faux until you touched it. These are the faux plants we all want.
Put a few of these realistic faux plants around your home, and there are no worries about whether the spot you choose is light enough. You don’t have to care about how much to water them, and they’ll never need fertilizer. Just keep them dusted and your job is done! Certainly seems easy enough.
How to select faux plants
Today’s plastic faux plants can actually be made from a mold of the real version, and some are then filled with foam for a soft, realistic feel. So, don’t be afraid to be a little touchy-feely with the plants you’re shopping for. You want to select plants that feel good and look even better. If you have to touch it to know it’s fake–that’s what you want.
Whenever possible, choose plastic plants over fabric {think silk}, because they look better and last longer. Have you ever seen a silk plant that looks a little worn and frayed around the edges of the leaves? They tend to do that over time after sitting in bright sunlight or too close to a heat vent. For the best longevity, choose plastic over fabric.
When you shop for faux plants, automatically avoid any that look over-styled. Over-styled means those plants that go over-the-top with details like fake water drops, or berries on a plant that doesn’t have them in real life. If you look at it and feel skeptical, others probably will too. Skip it!
Where to buy fabulous faux plants
Amazon has good options, but read the reviews to be sure you’re actually getting something that looks real in person. The same goes if you shop faux plants at Wayfair. Visit your local home improvement stores, if only to see what’s available and get a feel for what you like best.
Faux Brick Wall That Looks Real
DIY Plastic Projects: Spray Away!
If you’re in need of some good DIY projects, don’t neglect the spray paint! Spray paint is wonderful for transforming lots of things, but did you know you can use it to transform plastic items as well? You can! Today, I’ll be sharing all the tips and tricks you need to know before starting your DIY plastic projects. Keep reading to see some DIY plastic projects that use spray paint!
Sand first!
The first thing you’ll need to do when sanding plastic is to take away the shiny finish. Plastic is non-porous, so paint doesn’t adhere well unless you sand the shine away. Just rough up the surface using a fine grit sandpaper. I like these fine grit sandpaper sponges you can find at Amazon. After sanding, be sure to thoroughly wash away all sanding dust. Let your item dry thoroughly before proceeding.
Know your spray paint!
Not all spray paints are created equal. Be sure to purchase a variety that says it is intended for use on plastic. The reason is because it is made to adhere better and you’ll obtain a much better result than with a spray paint that is better suited for wood or metal. Krylon Fusion is one spray paint that is specifically made for use on plastic. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s suggestions no matter which brand of spray paint you decide to use for your plastic projects.
Do you need a primer?
It is possible to use a regular spray paint to paint plastic, but you will definitely need to use a primer to achieve desirable results. If you do choose to use regular spray paint, you need to get a primer formulated for plastic. Find this one on Amazon for a low price. If you’re ever in doubt about the finish and want to be sure it’s satisfactory, you can never go wrong using a primer for plastic even under a spray paint that is also formulated for plastic.
Suggested plastic DIY spray painted plastic projects:
- Repaint your plastic patio chairs in a new color
- Give plastic flower pots new life
- Paint plastic Dollar Tree bins fun colors
Use your imagination! There are endless possibilities when it comes to DIY spray painted plastic projects. And here is another one: https://fauxsho.org/10-more-fun-spray-paint-dye-diys/. Have fun!
How to Organize With Items from IKEA
As the seasons are changing and I’ve been doing some cleaning, I’ve been trying to find a few new ways to keep our home nice and organized. I’ve been coming across a lot of really clever IKEA products and hacks that really show how it’s a store of affordable possibilities. Here are 13 ways to organize your home and life using items from IKEA.
DIY Your Way to a PERFECT Fourth of July
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I absolutely LOVE summer! Aside from vacationing, birthdays (we have A LOT of summer birthdays in our family!), and having time to clean and get organized, you most certainly can’t understate the fun to be had with holiday celebrations. There are so many fun ways to celebrate Independence Day and throw your own party, but here are some of my favorites to share with you this year.
1. Dazzle Your Diners
Dazzle your diners with a sparkling presentation! What a fun way to present your holiday dishes to guests! I also love the dinnerware (I know I’ve seen those star plates and stands at Pottery Barn). Source.
2. Berry Trifle
This berry trifle is a favorite in our home. A beautiful display, light, and packed with flavor… there’s no going wrong with this one! Get the scrumptious details from Natasha’s Kitchen.
3. Star-Studded Fruit Salad
Another family favorite is this star-studded fruit salad. Simply use some star shaped cookie cutters to shape the fruit. SO easy to make and such a hit with everyone. Vegan Heaven shares the directions here.
4. Rocket Poppers
I don’t know if it’s because we’re normally kind of quiet people, but my family loves the tradition of sharing poppers at any holiday celebration we can. Needless to say, I was pretty excited when I found these rocket poppers. Fill them with all sorts of dollar store treats and prizes for a booming good time.
5. Coco-Berry Sicles
Freeze blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries in a popsicle mold with coconut water for this incredibly easy and refreshing holiday treat. No guilt and all pleasure with these sweet treats!
6. Ring Toss
Create your own stars and stripes ring toss game for some backyard fun. Get all the DIY information from Everyday Dishes.
7. Backyard Movie
Help pass the time before fireworks by watching a backyard movie. Learn how to make your own outdoor movie screen from Valu Home Centers.
8. S’Mores!
What better American summertime treat can you have than s’mores? Roast some up while you watch your movie. The french fry holders and plaid paper cones are an especially nice touch!
9. Gunny Sack Races
Have fun with some good old gunny sack races. For a pre-race activity, let kids and party guests decorate their own winning pillow case sacks.
10. Balloon Darts
For another simple backyard game, set up your own balloon dart board. Add inexpensive prizes inside the balloons for an added fun surprise.
11. Stars and Stripes Pie
I mean, does it get much more mouth-watering than this?! Shout Americana to your party-goers with an over-the-crust, stars and stripes cherry and berry pie. Is it July yet? Thanks to Woman’s Day for the recipe.
