Inspiration Monday #5: Scandinavian Design

Hello there!

Monday again already? Oh well, Let's all remember to take each day as it comes and celebrate all of the little successes we have today. If that doesn't make you beam with positivity then todays 'Inspiration Monday' post definitely will! If you're like me and can get 'lost' in IKEA on purpose, then I think this just might be the post for you..

Today, we're talking all things Scandinavian!

This design movement began in the 1930's throughout Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland. It had branched off Modernism and was characterized by it's simplicity of forms and functionality. It's often observed that this design movement has a strong relationship with nature due to the natural materials used and shapes formed.

Here are a couple of tips for achieving this truly gorgeous style:

1. Start with a blank canvas: These interiors have white walls and light coloured timber flooring.

2. Add small splashes of colour: This style is known for being a bit fun so add colours through use of accessories and soft furnishings!

3. Add soft, natural textures: This will not only give visual warmth but will increase comfort- which is another key component of this style!

 http://myscandinavianhome.blogspot.co.uk

 http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com

http://myscandinavianhome.blogspot.ca

 http://www.poppytalk.com

 http://moderndecorho.me

http://www.amazine.com

Oh I simply adore this look- aren't these interiors just beautiful?
I think the pale colour palette makes the overall feel of these interiors bright and 'airy'. The soft textures and bright accessories introduced creates a warmth so as not to feel sterile and cold.

These pictures are giving me so much inspiration for my own future place, I just love it!!

 

Thankyou so much for reading this quick post today. What are your thoughts on this style? Please feel free to leave any thoughts below, it really makes my day seeing all of your wonderful comments! Remember to check out some more of my favourite pictures on my 'Scandinavian Design' Pinterest board!
I hope you have a fabulous week and I'll talk to you again soon

Love Megan xo

D.I.Y Tin Can Lanterns

 

Hello again lovely readers!

 

Although it may not seem that long ago, it feels like forever since I've made a craft post for the blog. They're my favourite posts to create so I thought I would go ahead and make a new one for you all today!
I was inspired to create this post by the warmer weather we here in Australia have been experiencing lately. I think that these little lanterns are just perfect for summer backyard parties! They're also really easy and inexpensive to make- I had all of the materials already at home!
Keep reading to find out how you can make these little lanterns!

For this project you'll need:

• Tin Cans
• A power drill
• Thin wire
• Pliers
• Spray Paint in assorted colours
• Tea light candles

Before starting this project, you'll need to do some preparation. Fill your cans with water and freeze them overnight. This is so you don't bend the cans out of shape when drilling holes into them. You may also like to print out some designs for your lanterns too.
 

Tape your chosen design to the can. Alternatively, you can use a marker to draw a design onto your can. I learned that the simpler the design, the better the results! 

 

 

Using your power drill, drill holes outlining your chosen design. I used a few different sized drill bits to create my design because I thought it would look a bit interesting! Remember to try your best at keeping the spacing of the holes as even as possible- This design didn't really go to plan, but I thought it still looked pretty cool!

At this point, you'll also need to drill 2 holes on either side of the can for your handle. Once you've finished drilling, remove the ice by pouring hot water over it. It should melt relatively fast!

 

 

Next, Cut your wire to make the desired length for your handle. Thread one side through the hole and twist the wire together using your pliers. Once that's done, do the exact same thing to the other side!

 

 

Now its time to spray paint your lanterns! I used 2-3 coats for an opaque colour, but feel free to use as much as you'd like. This step is completely optional, but I thought it gave it a fun and festive touch! Remember to allow time for the coats to dry!

 

 

Add your tea light candles & that's it! Don't they look adorable?!

They're bright and festive during the day..

 

 

..But its at night when these little lanterns really come alive!

 

 

Please leave a comment telling me what you thought of this idea! As always, I'd love to see your pictures if you recreate this DIY!

A special mention goes to my dad for letting me borrow his tools! (There you go dad, I thanked you!)

I hope you all have an amazing day and I'll talk to you soon!

Love Megan xo

Inspiration Monday #4: A Vintage Affair

Hello Everyone!

I thought it was about time I wrote a new 'Inspiration Monday' post for you all, so today I would like to share my thoughts on the vintage trend.
 

This style has been all the rage in fashion, media, music and interiors for quite a few years now. Logging into Pinterest without seeing the iconic style is near impossible nowadays. As I browse through boutiques stapled with distressed crates and old fashioned milk bottles, I wonder what it is exactly about this trend that's turning our homes into time machines?

The design world constantly looks to the past for inspiration. We see it on runways and in home magazines, but why? Perhaps its simply doing what we know works while adding our own contemporary twist on the idea?

Well, I believe this style performs so well because as a society, we embrace the push for sustainability. We are now beginning to look at the way we use resources differently, including up-cycling old products to create new, innovative ones.

 http://www.projectwedding.com/photos/1/581348

 http://www.flickr.com/photos/leboudoirgourmand/5669717580/in/photostream

 http://www.funkyjunkinteriors.net/2013/06/a-junk-filled-summer-home-tour-funky-junk-interiors.html

http://indulgy.com/post/PpeQUL9JU1/old-sewing-machine-base

http://hananhanna.tumblr.com/post/79087567821

 http://www.amazinginteriordesign.com/10-brilliant-ways-repurpose-old-cribs/

http://jonesdesigncompany.com/things-i-like/before-there-was-pinterest/

This has got to be my favourite 'Inspiration Monday' trend so far- I just think its absolutely adorable! I love the idea of adding a bit of history to your home. I think it just makes the space a little more interesting, wouldn't you agree?

Grabbing these décor items from thrift shops and markets at bargain prices is also an added bonus, who wouldn't want current trend pieces for a fraction of the price?!

That's it for today everyone.. So, Are you loving this trend?

Please let me know your thoughts and/or if you have any ideas for future 'Inspiration Monday' posts - I'd love to hear them!  As always, don't forget to check out my 'Vintage Affair' Pinterest board for more Pinspiration! While you're there, why not give us a follow too?! :)

You may also like to check out past 'Inspiration Monday' posts:

Geometric Love        Pretty Pastels        Pineapples?

Have a good week!

Love Megan xo

10 Ways To Dress Up Blank Walls

Hello everybody!

Today on the blog, I have rounded up my favourite ways to decorate blank walls. I hope with this post, I'll be able to inspire many of you who are looking for some fresh ideas for your home.

Lets jump right in!

 

1. Unique wall art.

 

http://beautifulartdesign.com/unique-wall-art-ideas.html

Yes, starting with the obvious one!
You really don't need to stop at frames when decorating walls. There are thousands of unique designs for wall art out there if you look hard enough. I particularly like the textured design in this image- it practically flies off the wall!

2. Gallery.

 

http://bossycolor.com/nate-berkus-parade-magazine-and-me/

 

I adore this quirky idea! Why not gather a few of your bits and bobs to display together as a wall gallery? It certainly creates interest in the space!

 

3. Wall decals

 

http://www.vinylimpression.co.uk/collections/popular

Wall decals or stickers are absolutely fantastic! They come in a range of designs & sizes, and if you change your mind, they usually peel off easily without leaving any marks!

4. Collage's

 

http://bellamumma.com/

I just love inspirational collages! It'll easily fill your blank walls and it'll make you smile every time you see it!!

5. Clocks

 

http://bricolage-decoracao.blogspot.com.au/2013/02/diferentes-tipos-de-relogio-de-parede.html

Why not fill your space with a decorative clock?! Cute and practical? Yes please!

6. Textures

http://www.handmadecharlotte.com/8-fun-easy-diy-wall-hangings/

If your place seems cold and clinical, use these soft textures to warm up your space! Yarn & Quilted wall hangings are perfect if you're looking for something a little different. Isn't this one just adorable?!

7. Washi tape

 

http://www.styleitlikeyoustoleit.com/site/reasons-to-fall-in-love-with-washi-tape-interiors-ideas-tutorials-inspiration/

Oh, Washi Tape.. The possibilities are literally endless with this one!

Here's a link to a site that shows you some great ways to use the tape: 10 ways to transform your space with washi tape.

 

8. Storage Shelves

 

http://oldsoulstyle.blogspot.com.au/2014/09/unique-wall-decor-shelves.html

Why not take advantage of the wall space and add some extra shelves? They'll add some interest to the room and store your little knick knacks too!

9. Mirrors

 

http://www.babble.com/home/reasons-you-need-a-mirror-in-your-living-room/#let-there-be-light

 

Not only will a large mirror fill your empty space, but it'll also bounce light around the room making it appear larger and brighter!

 

10. Wallpaper

http://www.houzz.com/photos/206777/Doheny-Wallpaper-by-Jeff-Lewis-Design-modern-wallpaper

 

Wallpaper is such a versatile product since it comes in about a million different colours and patterns. You can use wallpaper to make as big or as little of a statement as you want- the options are endless!

I hope you enjoyed this post and maybe even found yourself inspired to decorate! Please let me know which ideas were your favourite as well as any ideas you might have that could be added to the list! I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Love Megan xo

 

Inspiration Monday #3: Pineapples?

 

Hello Everyone!

I've really been enjoying creating posts for the 'Inspiration Monday' series- In fact, I've even found myself excited to write this post! I've had great responses from you all in the past as well so I thought I'd go ahead and write a new instalment in the series today.

So lets talk about Pineapples.

No you didn't read that wrong, yes I did say pineapples. Are you as confused as I was when I saw this becoming a trend? It's almost as if a group of people sat in a board room naming completely random inanimate objects to slap all over accessories! My curiosity got the better of me and I decided to do a little bit of research on the subject.

 

It seems the pineapple has had a long and rich history dating back to colonial times.  It was seen as the fruit of the wealthy and dinner guests were delighted to discover their host had spared no expense to ensure they were satisfied. It was also bought as a gift to the hostess when entertaining guests. Since then, the pineapple has been known as an icon associated with hospitality.
 

Perhaps this is why the tropical fruit made its way onto our pillows and tea towels?

 

 http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2014/05/09/pineapple-decor-trend/?soc=pinterest

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/30/07/18/300718f7398feec473fafadd6845bf4f.jpg

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/pdp/detail.jsp?&navAction=jump&id=32480352#/

 http://www.nousdecor.com/blog/say-aloha-pineapple-trend-tropical-rooms

 http://www.nousdecor.com/blog/say-aloha-pineapple-trend-tropical-rooms

 

http://decor8blog.com/category/trends/

I personally like this trend. The treat reminds me of hot summer days days and beach parties.. doesn't it just make you wish you were sipping cocktails somewhere warm?! I think adding a few pineapples is a fantastic way to add character to your space. The bright colours and quirky shape will also add a retro vibe. Its definitely a hot pick for this summer!

 

So what about you, Is this a trend you'll be trying? Let me know in the comments your thoughts as well as suggestions for upcoming 'Inspiration Monday' posts. Also, don't forget to check out my 'Pineapple trend' Pinterest board I've created for you all!

You may also like to check out past 'Inspiration Monday' posts:
Geometric love & Pretty pastels

Have a wonderful week!

Love Megan xo

D.I.Y Yarn Tassel Garland

Hello craft bugs!

 Since starting this blog back in June and making all of these DIY projects, I’ve become a much happier person. I'm so proud of this blog and all of the posts I've created. Craft posts are by far my favourite ones to make, They are just so much fun! This one in particular has got to my best so far. I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as I loved creating it!

Whist searching for new craft projects, I found some tutorials on constructing a yarn garland. They all looked so cute and seemed simple enough to make. So I’m going to show you today how you can make one of your very own!

Garlands are more commonly made from paper, but I thought yarn was a fantastic alternative since they are less likely to become damaged! Purchasing these garlands can also be quite costly, but with more creative freedom and less money spent, why wouldn't you just make them yourself? In total, this garland cost me about $14 for all of the materials (and there was plenty of yarn leftover afterwards too!)

Ready to learn how you can make one?

For this project you'll need:

• Yarn in assorted colours

• A piece of cardboard cut to the desired length of the tassels (Mine was 10")

• Scissors

• Twine/ plain coloured yarn

• A needle (optional, but recommended!)

 

Lets get started!

The first step is to wrap the yarn around the cardboard until you have the desired thickness for your tassels. I wrapped mine around the cardboard 30 times per tassel.

Carefully slide the ring off the cardboard and secure it with a piece of the same coloured yarn. you may need to double knot this to keep it from coming undone.
 Make sure where you tie it is opposite from where you started wrapping.

Take your scissors and cut the yarn opposite of where you just tied. At this point you can also trim the excess yarn from your knot. Be careful that your knot doesn't come undone when doing this.

Fold your tassel backwards so that you cover the knot you tied. The top of your tassel should look like this.

Then take another piece of the yarn and tie it around the tassel to secure the shape. Again, you'll want to create a double knot before trimming the excess yarn!

Ta da!
Now just repeat the same simple steps to create as many tassels as you want!

Once you've got all of your tassels ready, its time to thread them onto some twine to hang. You can do this freehanded if you're patient enough, or you can use a needle like I did. Make sure you thread the twine through the back of your tassels (where the knot is)- you don't want the knots to be visible from the front!

That's it!

I absolutely LOVE this DIY. It was so easy, cheap and fun to make.. and it just looks so pretty!
As always, please let me know what you thought of this craft idea and send me your photos if you try it!
Happy Crafting!

Love Megan xo