With the GrainHome Improvement Tips and Tricks

Decorating is just as important of a home improvement as maintenance and repair to some, and it means very little to others.  No matter where you may fall in this spectrum, incorporation of Feng Shui decorating principles could be beneficial.  Here are some links to lead you:

• Feng Shui Basics
• How to Apply Feng Shui
• Feng Shui in the home
• Feng Shui Tips
• Feng Shiu Advantage

Rather than looking at Feng Shui as a method of decorating, many are looking at it as a way of life.  Not only does it impact the entire home’s appearance, but Feng Shui also impacts the way the home runs and is maintained.  There are also a number of excellent books covering this subject, as well as 100’s more websites.

I’ve been to flea markets and yard sales where I’ve seen old hand rakes mixed in with the various goods for sale.  I couldn’t help wondering what the heck people would do with an old hand rake that looked as though it was destined for the trash, rather than for use in someone’s garden.  Then I thought, “What about using them in country décor?” 

Here are some ideas:

• Create a hat rack: spray down the hand rake in a coordinating color, and hang it on the wall upside-down.  Hang hats, scarves, lightweight sweaters, and other light items from this whimsical rack.
• Dry flowers: again, spray down the hand rake in a coordinating color (or, leave it as is if it has that distressed look you’re after), and hang it upside-down.  Hang bunches of flowers and branches to dry from the rake’s tines.

Once you start looking at this gardening tool differently, you’ll be surprised how many country décor ideas pop into your mind.  Take these ideas and run with them!  Have fun!