With the GrainHome Improvement Tips and Tricks

Sometimes, we want to redecorate but we either don’t have the time or the budget.  So, rather than complain about these realities, why not make some simple interior changes.  Here are some suggestions to get you through until you’re able to work on your next big project:

• Change out groupings of photo frames to something new or different.  For example, if you have a collection of black frames that are all the same, consider changing them out to all different types of frames that are painted a bold color.
• Rearrange furniture in your primary living spaces, if possible, and change out the throw pillows and blankets.
• Add plants to rooms that don’t have any, including hanging plants in windows.
• Consider purchasing a new set of dishes and glassware, as well as table dressings for your kitchen and (or) dining room.
• Cover over framed art using pretty wrapping paper or fabrics to give them a unique and eye-catching appearance.

These are just a sampling of some simple ideas for interior changes.  Shopping around at flea markets, yard sales, antique stores, and thrift stores are other ways you can add some quick and charming changes to your interiors.  Good luck!

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!