With the GrainHome Improvement Tips and Tricks

Question: When you see a ladder, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?

Typical Answer: Something to climb on to reach things that are, well, out of reach.

Designer Answer: A shelving unit!

There’s no right or wrong answer here.  This is an example of how there are varying opinions about how things should be used.  This is particularly true for those who are looking to improve their living spaces for little money.  By adding some scrap wood to the ladder rungs, a bookshelf is created.  Or, couple two ladders together and string longer pieces of wood between then.  Add some paint, and you’re done!

Re-purposing items into unique items to improve your home not only saves money (and time shopping), but it also allows for interesting design features in your home.  Consider shopping flea markets, salvage stores, and antique stores to find items that could be used for other purposes (like the ladders, for example).

Do you have a sofa that you’re tired of, or that doesn’t match the color scheme you want for a room makeover?  Do you have a dining set that could use some elegant sprucing up?

Rather than replacing these pieces, cover them over!  Slipcovers have come a long way since the days of bouffant floral patterns, bagging seams, and frilly edges.  Not only do consumers have the choice between modern clean lines, they can also choose vintage and traditional looks.

Here are some links to lead you:

• RealSimple.com: Where to Buy Slipcovers

• Readymade Furniture Slipcovers

• Vintage Vogue Slipcover

Slipcovers are particularly beneficial if you’re staging a home for resale.  Not only is it an inexpensive alternative to furniture replacement, it’s a quick-fix room enhancement.  Consider stepping out of your comfort zone a bit and exploring different patterns, fabric textures, and colors.  If you don’t like it, just slip it off!