And that’s where learning about baraka has been surprisingly comforting. Not in a “nothing can touch me” way—but in a grounding way. Even when the world feels unstable and emotionally heavy, I can trust Allah with what I can’t control—and focus on what I can do: asking Him to place blessing in what’s right in front of me—my time, my home, my words, and the small choices I make today.

And honestly, this whole reflection on baraka started for me in a much smaller moment—one customer message that caught me off guard.

Last year, I was packing orders and restocking my best‑seller stencil—“Ramadan Kareem”—when a message popped up from a customer:

“Do you have this… but in Ramadan Mubarak?”

At first, I treated it like a simple product request.

But then I paused. I had been using Ramadan Kareem because it’s what I saw everywhere… because it felt like the norm. Honestly, back in Jordan we just used ” Kullu am wa antum bikhair” (كل عام وأنتم بخير) , meaning “May you be well every year”.

So her question turned into mine:

What’s the difference between Ramadan Kareem and Ramadan Mubarak—and is one more accurate than the other? (keep reading for the answer) 

That one customer message opened a door I’m glad I walked through. I started listening to a few podcasts, reading more about baraka, and eventually I picked up “The Baraka Effect” by Mohammad Faris —and it genuinely shifted how I think about blessings, success, and the pressure to hustle.

What is Baraka?

Baraka is Allah’s blessing—placed where He wills. It’s not only “more” in the obvious sense; it’s when Allah puts goodness, benefit, and increase into something so it carries more value than it normally should. Subhan Allah, it’s like Allah places a multiplier in it—so the same time, effort, or resources end up producing more benefit, more goodness, and more lasting impact than you would normally expect.

Signs of Baraka in Real Life

If we’re constantly making du’a for blessings—in our time, our money, our health, our families, our homes, our work—how would we know if our prayers were answered?

What does baraka look like in everyday life?

Is it more money? Not necessarily. Wealth can be a test just like hardship—and you can have a lot financially while still feeling stressed, ungrateful, or far from Allah

More productivity? Not always. You can be busy, efficient, and constantly “getting things done”… and still feel stressed, scattered, and spiritually empty

More knowledge? Not necessarily. You can earn high degrees and still feel constantly rushed—always comparing, easily irritated, and too busy to live what you’ve learned.

According to author Mohammad Faris, baraka can show up in two broad ways:

1. Visible (physical) manifestations — when you see baraka show up in measurable ways:
   • You witness material growth beyond what your effort or numbers would normally produce.
   • Your affairs feel stable—your marriage has more calm, your income feels more reliable, your career feels grounded, and your children benefit in their wellbeing and growth.
   • You stay consistent. For example, with children, it can look like the small things staying consistent—a bedtime routine that holds, a few minutes of Qur’an or du‘a together most nights, gentle adab reminders, and choosing patience again and again—even when you don’t see instant results.

1. Unseen (spiritual) manifestations — when the baraka isn’t measured in numbers, but you feel its impact:
   • Inner peace: your heart feels calmer and more grounded, even when life is busy.
   • Clarity and guidance: you make better decisions with less confusion, have new ideas, and doors open (or close) in a way that protects you.
   • Unexpected ease: things start to feel smoother in ways you can’t fully explain—solutions appear, the next step becomes clear, and what felt difficult becomes manageable (even if it’s still not “easy”). 
   • Contentment: you’re not constantly chasing the next thing—you feel satisfied with what Allah has given you.
   • Protection: you’re kept away from harm, wasted time, unhealthy relationships, or choices that would have drained you.
   • Closeness to Allah: worship feels lighter to return to, du‘a becomes more consistent, and you feel more present in your intention.

How to Cultivate Baraka (Practically, Not Perfectly)

Step 1: Strengthen Your Relationship With Allah (SWT):

Reconnect to the Source of baraka by getting to know Allah through His Names and Attributes. The more you know Him, the more you’ll love Him—and that love naturally turns into a desire to please Him in the way you live, work, and worship.

And we don’t have to guess what loving Him looks like—Allah has already shown us the path in the Quran: holding onto the daily prayers, fasting Ramadan, giving zakat (charity), and performing Hajj (for those who are able). And beyond the basics, it also means choosing what Allah calls good—honesty, kindness, justice, and good character—and staying away from what He warns us against.

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:

Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “Allah the Exalted has said: ‘…. And the most beloved thing with which My slave comes nearer to Me is what I have enjoined upon him; and My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing Nawafil (prayer or doing extra deeds besides what is obligatory) till I love him. When I love him I become his hearing with which he hears, his seeing with which he sees, his hand with which he strikes, and his leg with which he walks; and if he asks (something) from Me, I give him, and if he asks My Protection (refuge), I protect him”.[Al- Bukhari]

When your focus shifts from pleasing your ego to pleasing Allah, your choices start to feel clearer, your priorities fall into place, and you begin measuring success by what brings you closer to Him—not just what looks impressive on the outside. 

Step 2: Set Clear Intentions

When you stop trying to prove yourself and quiet that inner pressure, it becomes easier to ask a better question:

What am I doing this for?

That’s where clear intention begins—aligning your goals with sincerity, service, and what pleases Allah.

And this is how this step cultivates baraka: a clear intention becomes like a compass. It helps you choose what to say yes to (and what to let go of), so you waste less energy on distractions and people-pleasing. When your goal is to please Allah, even ordinary tasks—work, parenting, hosting, business—turn into worship. And when your actions are rooted in sincerity, Allah places blessing in them: your day feels more focused, your stress feels lighter, and your efforts start to bring benefit in ways you didn’t plan for. 

For example, exercise can become an act of worship when you set the intention to care for your body as an amanah from Allah. Instead of working out purely for appearance (even though that can be a nice side benefit) or comparison, you’re doing it to stay strong for your responsibilities, protect your health, and have the energy to worship and serve. That intention turns “movement” into meaning—alongside nourishing your body with halal food, water, and rest. 

Step 3: Serve with Ihsan (Excellence)

Ihsan is living with that awareness that Allah sees you—so you try to worship Him as if you see Him, and you bring sincerity and care into what you do (especially when no one is watching). It shows up in your salah and your worship and in your everyday dealings:

how you speak to your family,

how you show up at work,

how you treat your neighbors,

and how you show kindness to strangers.

And do good, for Allah loves the doers of good (al‑muhsinin).” (Qur’an 2:195)

And this is one of the quiet ways ihsan cultivates baraka: when you do things with sincerity, honesty, and beautiful character, Allah places blessing in your efforts. Your work becomes more beneficial, relationships feel lighter, your time feels better used, and even small actions start to carry a bigger impact than you expected.

Step 4: Trust Allah (Tawakkul)

Tawakkul isn’t something you “master” overnight—it’s a muscle you build over time. One idea from the book that helped me understand tawakkul is this contrast between a Carpenter Mindset and a Gardener Mindset. 

A Carpenter Mindset is focused on the final outcome. Just like a carpenter works from a fixed blueprint and checks every measurement, he expects the final result to match the plan exactly . In real life, that can look like holding a rigid picture of how things should go—and judging yourself by whether you hit it. When life doesn’t follow your blueprint, it can leave you feeling anxious, discouraged, and overwhelmed.

For example, let’s say you really want to raise a child who becomes a Hafiz—from a carpenter mindset, you create a clear “blueprint” in your mind: they should memorize by this age, at this pace, with this routine. And when your child has an off week, forgets what they memorized, or simply isn’t cooperating, it can start to feel like a crisis. You tighten the schedule, increase the pressure, and carry that heavy fear of “What if we’re falling behind?” That’s the Carpenter Mindset—trying to force a specific outcome on a specific timeline, and feeling crushed when the real-life process doesn’t match the plan.  

A Gardener Mindset is process-focused. Just like a gardener can’t force growth on demand—he can only prepare the soil, plant the seed, and water consistently, then wait for the plant to grow and produce. In other words, you do what you can—set the conditions, show up consistently—and you accept that real growth takes time and is ultimately by Allah’s permission. With this mindset, you feel steadier: less anxious about timelines, more patient with slow progress, and more hopeful—because you’re focused on your effort and trusting Allah with the results.

let’s take the previous example of raising a child who becomes a Hafiz. From a Gardener Mindset, you still love that goal—but you stop trying to force it on a rigid timeline. Instead, you focus on what you can control: creating the right environment, building a routine your child can actually sustain, and keeping the relationship with Qur’an warm. So you commit to small, consistent steps (even 10–15 minutes a day), choose support that fits your child (teacher, halaqah, method), and remember that hearts open in seasons. If your child has an off week or forgets some memorization, you don’t treat it like failure—you adjust gently, encourage, make du‘a, and keep going.

By the way, sometimes you can do all the “right” things and still not see the result you hoped for—at least not right away, or not in the way you imagined, or even not at all. A Gardener Mindset helps you remember that outcomes are in Allah’s hands, and that His plan may unfold differently than yours—yet it carries goodness you might not see yet.

The Qur’an reminds us of this :

“Perhaps you dislike something which is good for you… Allah knows and you do not know.” (2:216)

So the Gardener Mindset helps you loosen your grip on outcomes and detach from results. But detaching from the results doesn’t mean you stop planting—it means you plant anyway. The Prophet ﷺ taught us: keep doing your part, even when you can’t predict the results.

Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, “Even if the Resurrection were established upon one of you while he has in his hand a sapling, let him plant it.”

But why? If the Day of Judgment is literally happening—why plant something that won’t have time to grow? Why do an act that you (or anyone else) may never benefit from?

I love this hadith because it takes the pressure off “results” and brings me back to what I can do today: one sincere act of good. You plant the seed anyway—doing what’s right for Allah—whether you ever get to see the “fruits” or not.

 Step 5: Practice gratitude

Gratitude is one of the simplest ways to invite baraka—because Allah promises increase when we’re thankful:

“If you are grateful, I will surely give you more.” (Qur’an 14:7)

And yes, you’ll see gratitude everywhere these days—gratitude journals, daily prompts, and reminders.  But for us, gratitude isn’t just a self-help habit. It’s ‘ibadah—a way of noticing Allah’s gifts and responding with Alhamdulillah.

That’s why I love simple gratitude practices—because SubhanAllah, we’ll never be able to count every blessing, but even trying changes your perspective. One little habit I’ve been trying with my daughter is a “three blessings” check-in on the drive to school. I’ll ask her for three things she’s grateful for—sometimes it’s something big, and sometimes it’s as simple as “my snack” or “my friend.” Either way, it gently trains the heart to notice what’s already there—so we stop living on autopilot and start appreciating the everyday gifts.

But gratitude isn’t only during the good times. The real test of this ‘ibadah is when life feels heavy—when plans don’t work out, when you’re worried, tired, sick or disappointed. In those moments, shukr is trusting that Allah is still caring for you—even if you can’t see the full picture yet. You’ll feel the baraka when, even in hardship, your heart stays connected to Allah—when you find strength you didn’t think you had, your patience stretches, your tongue still returns to Alhamdulillah, and you come out of the test with more closeness to Him.

So to circle back to my original question—what’s the difference between Ramadan Kareem and Ramadan Mubarak, and is one more accurate?

Here’s the simple answer: both greetings are beautiful, but they highlight different meanings.

• Ramadan Mubarak is essentially a du‘a: may this month be blessed for you. And because the Prophet ﷺ described Ramadan as a blessed month, this wording feels especially close to the Sunnah. It brings us right back to what we’ve been talking about—asking Allah to place baraka in your time, your worship, your home, and your effort.
• Ramadan Kareem means: Ramadan is a noble/generous month. It reminds us of the generosity of Allah and the generosity encouraged in Ramadan—mercy, forgiveness, charity, and open doors to good.

If this topic spoke to you, I genuinely recommend reading The Baraka Effect. I shared my own takeaways here, but the author goes much deeper—unpacking what baraka really means, how it shows up in everyday life (in time, work, relationships, and worship), and the practical ways we can cultivate it without falling back into hustle and burnout. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just inspire you—it helps you reframe how you live.

And yes—if you’re wondering—I did add a “Ramadan Mubarak” stencil to my collection of Arabic stencils

I’d love to know—when have you felt baraka in your life?

Was it in your time? Your home? Your family? Your work?

Reply or leave a comment and share one small example. Sometimes we help each other see blessings just by naming them.

We offer a variety of digital products for different needs and occasions.

For those of you who enjoy DIY projects and creative work, you’ll find a growing collection of SVG and PDF files for art, gifts, and home decor.

For special occasions—especially if you’re looking for signs or invitations for an Arab Henna party—you’ll also find a beautiful selection of digital invitations and printable welcome signs, along with printable stickers and gift tags.

Digital products can be a really practical option, especially if you’re looking for something flexible and easy to use:

• You can access them right away
• There’s no shipping wait
• You can print them in the way that works best for you
• They’re great for last-minute projects
• And they give you the flexibility to create something beautiful in your own style

I hope you enjoy looking through our digital products and find something that feels just right for what you need. I’m also including a short video tour to walk you through our Etsy shop’s digital products, so you can get a better feel for what’s available.

Today’s post might feel a little different from what you’re used to seeing here. My mission is to help you create a home that feels harmonious, peaceful, and comforting—through simple organization, functional interior design, and creative DIY projects—plus easy routines that make daily life feel calmer and more manageable.

As Ramadan is now here, I also want to support the inner side of that harmony—because a calmer, more intentional heart often leads to a calmer, more intentional home. 

So let’s get started….Bismillah

Now that Ramadan is here, many of us naturally start thinking about meal prep, decorations, iftar gatherings, schedule changes, and the goals we hope to achieve this month. With all of that on our minds, I want to pause and talk about something even more important: mental prep.

Because the way we think about Ramadan shapes how we experience it.

If we walk into Ramadan with pressure, comparison, and unrealistic expectations, we often burn out fast. But if we walk in with intention, gentleness, and a plan that fits our real life, Ramadan can become what it’s meant to be: a month of renewal and transformation—one small step at a time.

So how will you show up differently this Ramadan?

A mindset shift

Here’s a simple way to approach Ramadan this year

• If you already have spiritual habits—Ramadan is a beautiful time to add to them.
• If you’ve been feeling spiritually disconnected—Ramadan is your open door to start again, slowly and sincerely.

Either way, Ramadan isn’t about becoming perfect overnight. It’s about turning toward Allah with what you can do right now—then building from there.

The key is making a decision—and treating it like a gentle promise to yourself. Start where you are, with what you can do—today.

Consistency beats intensity

One of the most comforting teachings from the Prophet ﷺ is this reminder:

“The most beloved deed to Allah is the most regular and constant, even if it were little.”

The goal is about doing something small enough that you can actually maintain it—because what lasts is what changes you.

Let’s use Qur’an as an example, because this is where a lot of people feel the most pressure (and competition during Ramadan).

Many of us set the goal: “I’m going to finish reading the whole Qur’an this Ramadan.” And that’s a beautiful goal—if it matches your current habit level.

But if you haven’t been reading consistently, and your lifestyle is busy, aiming for something huge can backfire. You may start strong, fall behind, and then feel disappointed—sometimes so disappointed that you stop completely.

Instead, try this approach:

Choose a goal that fits your current starting point

If you haven’t been reading Qur’an regularly, consider aiming for something like:

• One page a day
• Half a page a day
• One juz’ across the entire month

And here’s the part people forget:

The real goal isn’t what you do in Ramadan only.

The real goal is what you can keep doing AFTER Ramadan.

Because that’s how you build a bridge from Ramadan to the next Ramadan—Insha’Allah!

Your effort is counted

Even if you don’t reach every goal, Allah sees your striving-(Surah An-Najm 53:39)

Don’t compare—this is your journey

One last reminder: life comes in seasons. You’re not the same person you were 5 years ago, and your circumstances aren’t the same either. Everyone is in a different season, with different responsibilities and capacity. So don’t measure your Ramadan against anyone else—compare yourself to yourself from last Ramadan, and focus on one small step forward.

That’s real growth.

But will small steps be enough?

It’s a fair question—because Ramadan is a once-a-year opportunity, and many of us think, “If I’m only doing small things, am I missing out on bigger ajr?”

Here’s how I think about this:

Allah (SW) looks at the sincerity of our intentions. In Surah Al‑Baqarah (2:265), Allah mentions two sincere motives behind giving (from ones wealth): to seek His pleasure, and “tathbītan min anfusihim”—to strengthen themselves from the inside out. When I read this, it reminds me that my small steps toward Allah aren’t “small” at all—they’re acts of worship I’m doing to seek His pleasure and to strengthen my soul, one habit at a time. 

And this is important: those “small steps” won’t always feel easy. Starting a new habit means you’ll often be fighting your own nafs—your comfort, your excuses, your tiredness, your distractions. Some days the struggle is simply showing up. So don’t ever underestimate this fight.

A gentle Ramadan challenge

Here’s your Ramadan mental prep challenge:

Pick one small habit you can do consistently.

Not perfectly. Not intensely. Consistently.

Then ask yourself:

How can I keep this after Ramadan?

Here are some suggestions of habits to start in Ramadan, sustain until the next Ramadan insha’Allah, then build on -choose one or two to focus on

• Read Qur’an—one page a day
• Memorize Qur’an — 3 āyāt a day (or even 1 if that’s more realistic). The next day, review what you memorized yesterday, then add another āyah—keep repeating this simple cycle so it builds naturally over time.
• Reflect on Qur’an — choose one surah you love and spend the month learning its meaning, theme, and lessons.
• Get to know Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta‘ala) — choose one of His Names, learn its meaning, see when and how HE used it in the Quran.
• Make wudu before leaving the bathroom (it makes praying on time easier)
• Pray the 5 daily prayers (make them your non‑negotiable foundation)
• Spend ONE MINUTE  after each salah for dhikr
• Learn and memorize ONE Dua this month
• Give Sadaqa (any amount) weekly
• Pray two rak‘ahs sunnah before Fajr
• Pray Witr, even 1 rak‘ah, (at least) once a week
• Pray Duha 2 rak‘ahs (at least) once a week
• Spend 5 minutes each morning doing Istighfar
• Send 10 salawat (Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad) after each prayer
• Don’t touch your phone before Fajr—Focus on adhkar and tasbeeh
• Establish a nightly gratitude routine-think of 3 things you’re grateful for
• Improve character as worship: choose one trait (patience, gentleness, guarding the tongue) and focus on it this month
• Reconnect with family ties: one call/message a day/week to a relative
• Spend (at least) one hour a day fully present with your family—no distractions—this is an act of worship.

Whatever it is—keep it real, keep it gentle, keep it steady.

Small steps, repeated, become a staircase. So don’t underestimate the impact of any step you take.

May Allah make this Ramadan a month of mercy, renewal, and lasting change. Ameen.

The goal is to leave Ramadan with something you didn’t have before: a habit, a softness in the heart, a stronger connection, a new beginning.

I’d love to hear from you—what one small habit are you focusing on this Ramadan? And if you have any other simple habit ideas that have helped you (or that you’re planning to try), please comment below and share them with us. Your ideas might be exactly what someone else needs to hear this week.

That’s exactly what this design board is about: a Muslim Prayer Room that feels warm, inviting, and intentional—while still being practical. Function was just as important as aesthetics in every choice.

The main piece in this room is a low sofa, chosen to mimic the comfort of floor seating—simple, grounded, and very much in the spirit of the Sunnah. It’s perfect for sitting with a cup of tea, reading Qur’an, or having a quiet moment… and it doesn’t overpower the room. I also included two lightweight storage ottomans that can be moved around easily. They offer extra seating, they store prayer clothes and scarves, and most importantly—they can be shifted quickly to open up space for prayer. This is one of those simple things that makes the room truly usable. A side table adds everyday comfort (a place to set down tea or a book), and a ladder for prayer rugs turns something practical into something beautiful. It keeps rugs organized, easy to grab, and honestly… it adds such a cozy touch.

To support both beauty and purpose, I included arched bookshelves—a detail that feels timeless and rooted in Islamic design. These shelves can hold Qur’ans and Islamic books, but also small décor pieces that add character without feeling cluttered. You can also tuck everyday essentials into a few brown baskets on the lower shelves to keep things looking neat.

What’s a prayer room without a touch of Islamic art? I chose a piece with the words: La ilaha illa Anta, Subhanaka, inni kuntu min az-zalimeen—the du’a of Prophet Yunus (عليه السلام) when he called out to Allah in the darkness. I love this du’a because it’s short, powerful, and it instantly puts the heart in the right place. It’s an admission of Allah’s perfection (Subhanaka), and a gentle, honest reminder of our own weakness (I was among the wrongdoers). When you see it before prayer—or even while you’re sitting with Qur’an—it naturally brings humility, tawbah, and that quiet softness that helps with khushoo’ for the prayer. I also chose it in green to flow with the room’s palette—and because green has such a calming, grounding feel in a space you want to keep peaceful for worship. 

I chose an area rug with a subtle pattern because the last thing we want during prayer is visual distraction. And I went with darker tones for durability—because a prayer space should be lived in, not “kept perfect.” And because privacy matters, I added a portable carved room divider. It gives you the option to create separation when needed, but it’s not permanent—so the room can still feel open and airy.

Lastly, plants and flowers add softness and life, so I always include them in my designs. The overall color palette—green and brown—keeps the room warm, grounded, and inviting

Want to recreate this look in your own home? Click here to shop the pieces from this design board. (P.S. Just a quick note—none of these links are sponsored. I’m simply curating the pieces to make it easy for you to pull this look together).

I’d love to hear what you think of this setup—would a cozy, multi-purpose prayer space like this work in your home? And what’s been the biggest challenge in your own prayer area: storage for prayer items, keeping it tidy, creating privacy, making space for multiple family members, or choosing décor that feels calm and not distracting?

Leave a comment and tell me—I read every single one.

Here’s today’s Design Inspiration

This living room concept is what I call a calm kind of luxury—warm, grounded, and effortlessly inviting. It feels serene and settled, with enough depth to feel elevated but never busy. The overall look is timeless, welcoming, and intentionally uncluttered.

This style is ideal for anyone who wants their home to feel like a peaceful retreat, while still looking polished enough for hosting. It’s perfect for those drawn to earthy warmth, balance, and a collected look that feels meaningful and lived-in—without feeling overly “decorated.”

Does this style feel like something you’d want in your own home? Tell me what you’re drawn to (the mood, the colors, the overall feel) and what you’d skip. Your feedback helps shape what I share next, so share your thoughts in the comments.

With the new year just days away, I love seeing people choose hope—making goals, starting over, trying again. For me, that “reset” usually happens around my birthday—that’s when I naturally reflect and set a few gentle intentions. But this year feels different. I’m stepping into a new chapter of life, and instead of brushing resolutions off, I’m starting to see them as a mirror. Not a mirror that criticizes—one that reflects what’s been sitting quietly in my heart: what I miss, what I want more of, and what I’m hoping this next chapter can hold.

I used to think “more time” would feel like a reward—like once the kids were older and life calmed down, I’d finally have room to breathe and focus. But after writing about how resolutions are starting to feel like a mirror, I’m realizing that’s exactly what this extra space has become for me: a mirror I can’t unsee. Lately, the quiet has been asking me questions—quiet ones, big ones—the kind you don’t notice when your day is full of carpool plans and to-do lists. And now, with the year ending and the noise fading, I’m realizing I don’t just want to fill my hours with good habits or busy projects. I’m craving something I can’t quite define yet—something deeper, something that will still feel worth it when I look back. And I’m sharing this not because I have the answers… but because I suspect I’m not the only one standing here, unsure, and hoping the next chapter makes sense.

When Your Life Has a Built-In Purpose

For years, I didn’t need resolutions.

My days already had structure because my life revolved around my kids. As a stay-at-home mom raising four children, my time naturally organized itself: when they were at school, I worked on my business and managed the home. When they were back, everything shifted to them—meals, activities, driving, supporting, listening, showing up.

It was a lot. It was exhausting sometimes. It was also… meaningful in a way that’s hard to explain unless you’ve lived it.

Because no matter how chaotic the day felt, I rarely asked myself, “What am I supposed to be doing with my life?” I already knew. The answer was standing right in front of me.

What I didn’t expect was how strange it would feel when the structure started loosening. When the calendar stopped being jam-packed by default. When the house began to quiet down in small, gradual ways—one child here, one milestone there—until I suddenly noticed the space. And at first I thought, Finally. This is what I wanted.

More time.

More freedom.

More ability to focus on my goals without constant interruption.

The Questions That Come With Time

Not the simple ones. Not “Should I wake up earlier?” or “How can I be more productive?” Those questions are manageable. They come with checklists and planners and tidy answers. The questions that came instead were the kind that sit beside you in silence and don’t leave quickly. The kind that show up while you’re cleaning the kitchen, or driving alone, or folding laundry that isn’t piled as high as it used to be.

Questions like: What do I want this next chapter to mean? What am I building toward now? What would I regret not exploring while I still can?

And that’s where I feel a little exposed, because I don’t have a neat answer.

It’s almost funny—because for years, I told myself that once I had more time, I would do more. I would expand more. Create more. Achieve more. And yes, I still care deeply about my work and my goals.

But I’m realizing I don’t just want to be busy.

I don’t want my days to be filled and full but somehow still empty.

I want to feel like what I’m doing carries weight—like it matters beyond the moment and beyond the to-do list.

I think part of this is simply age. Not in a scary way—more in a waking-up way. The older I get, the more I notice time. I lost my dad, and I’ve lost other loved ones too. I notice my mom aging. I notice my mother-in-law growing weaker. I notice myself entering a stage of life that used to feel far away. And when the one parent you have left starts to look older, something shifts inside you. You start measuring life differently.

Not in years, but in seasons.

Not in plans, but in what’s left undone.

And then there’s the emotional shift of being needed differently. When your children are younger, your purpose is right there in front of you. It’s loud, obvious, demanding. People talk about how hard that stage is—and it is—but there’s also something grounding about it. You may feel exhausted, but you’re rarely asking, Why am I here? because the “why” is calling your name from the next room.

When that changes, it can feel both freeing and disorienting.

I’ve heard people say the empty nest gives you your life back, and that’s true in many ways. But it also hands you back questions you didn’t have time to sit with before. And I’m realizing that I can’t answer them with a list of habits.

I can’t solve them with productivity.

I can’t organize my way out of them.

I’m not writing this as someone who has found the magic formula. I’m writing this as someone who is still in it—still trying to listen, still trying to name what I’m craving, still trying to figure out what “meaning” looks like in ordinary days.

Maybe This Is What the Next Chapter Looks Like

Some days, “meaning” feels like doing something I’ve been avoiding because it scares me. Other days, it feels like showing up more intentionally in relationships I care about. Sometimes it feels like giving my attention to the things that make me feel alive—without needing them to be profitable or impressive. Sometimes it feels like turning down the noise, because I’m starting to suspect that a quieter life might be a more honest one.

And if I’m really honest, I think this end-of-year feeling isn’t about becoming a brand-new person. It’s about becoming more awake. About noticing where I’m going on autopilot. About asking what I want to carry into the new year—not because it looks good, but because it feels true.

Maybe that’s what this season is: less about big declarations, and more about small truths.

Maybe it’s okay to enter a new year without a polished plan.

Maybe it’s okay to admit, “I don’t fully know what I’m doing, but I know I want it to matter.”

Maybe it’s okay to be someone who is grateful and unsure at the same time.

So if you’re ending this year with a strange mix of emotions—pride and restlessness, gratitude and questioning, calm and confusion—I just want you to know: I get it. You’re not behind. You’re not broken. You might just be standing at the edge of a new chapter, and that edge can feel tender.

I’d love to know if this resonates with you. Are you feeling that quiet pull toward something deeper as the year ends? Are you also noticing that your old goals don’t quite fit the way they used to? Are you craving meaning, even if you can’t fully define it yet?

If you are, you’re not alone.

I’m right here too—asking the questions, taking it one honest step at a time, and trusting that “not knowing” can still be a valid place to begin.

In today’s video, I share 4 simple tips to help you choose the right rug size for your living room. Using a real 10’x17’ apartment living room as an example, I compare 4×6, 6×9, 8×10, 9×12, and 10×14 rugs so you can clearly see how each one changes the look and feel of the space.

What You’ll Learn in the Video:

• Orient your rug with the sofa: Lining up the rug with the longest side of the sofa keeps your furniture and rug aligned, creating symmetry and balance.
• Follow the front leg rule: At minimum, the front legs of your sofa and chairs should sit on the rug to connect the seating arrangement.
• Allow for 1–2 feet of overhang: Extending the rug slightly beyond the sofa and chairs frames the seating area and prevents the space from looking too tight.
• Leave a bare floor border: Keeping 8–18 inches of exposed flooring around the rug acts like a frame, ensuring your rug doesn’t overwhelm the room.

By applying these tips, you’ll be able to confidently choose a rug that not only fits your space but also makes your living room feel polished and inviting

If you have questions about rug sizing, leave a comment below—I’d be happy to answer them!

In this video, I share simple and practical ways to set up a peaceful and organized prayer area—one that feels calming, clutter-free, and truly inviting.

After watching this video, you’ll learn how to:

Pick the perfect spot – Find a quiet and private area in your home, even if space is limited.
Set a peaceful vibe – Use soft lighting, pastel colors, and minimal decor to create a calming atmosphere.
Keep it clean & clutter-free – Learn simple habits to maintain a tidy and distraction-free prayer space.
Stay organized – Discover storage solutions for prayer rugs, clothes, Qurans, and beads so everything is within reach.
Make it warm & inviting – Add personal touches like a lantern, a plant, or a cozy cushion to make your space feel extra special.

I hope this video gives you some inspiration to create a prayer space that brings peace and blessings into your home this Ramadan and beyond.

What’s one thing you love to have in your prayer space? Let me know in the comments!

Learn how to sort, categorize, and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Plus, I’ll share real-life examples to make the process easier to follow. Don’t forget to stick around for my top tips at the end of the video to avoid re-cluttering your home and maintain an organized space for good.

Decluttering your home is a journey, and it’s all about progress, not perfection. Remember, starting small and staying consistent are the keys to success. I hope this video gave you the motivation and tools to begin your own decluttering journey.

I’d love to hear from you! What’s one area in your home you’re excited to tackle first? Or do you have any favorite decluttering tips that work for you? Drop a comment below and let’s keep the conversation going. Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel for more tips and ideas to create a peaceful and organized home. Together, we can simplify and transform our spaces!

In today’s video, we’ll explore practical tips for decluttering, why it’s so important, and how it can bring joy and ease to your life.

Here are some key points to take from this video

Why Decluttering is Essential for Muslim Homes

As Muslims, our homes are more than just physical spaces – they’re places of worship, family connection, and hospitality. A clutter-free home fosters an environment of peace, making it easier to focus on ibadah (worship), enjoy time with loved ones, and feel at ease.

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things; it’s about creating space for what truly matters. When your home is free of unnecessary items, it’s easier to tidy up, keep clean, and maintain a calm atmosphere.

Benefits of Decluttering

1. Easier to Clean: Less clutter means less time spent moving things around and more time for what you love.
2. Quick to Tidy Up: When everything has a designated place, tidying up becomes effortless.
3. Calming Environment: A clutter-free home creates a sense of peace, reducing stress and promoting productivity.
4. Encourages Generosity: Letting go of items you don’t need allows you to give to those in need, turning your unused belongings into blessings for others.

Steps to Declutter Your Home

1. Start Small:
   Begin with one drawer, shelf, or area. Tackling a small space prevents overwhelm and builds momentum.
2. Commit to a Schedule:
   Depending on your time, dedicate 15-30 minutes a day or one area a week. Consistency is key!
3. Use Categories:
   Sort items into four categories:
   • Keep
   • Donate
   • Recycle
   • Discard
4. Ask the Right Questions:
   When deciding what to keep, ask yourself:
   • Do I use this?
   • Do I love it?
   • Does it serve my current lifestyle?
   • Would I buy it again today?
5. Let Go Without Fear:
   Imagine how much joy your items can bring to someone else. Don’t be afraid to give things away, especially if they’re no longer serving you.

Let me know in the comments below: What’s your biggest challenge when it comes to decluttering? I’d love to hear your thoughts and help you on this journey to creating a home that brings you comfort and joy.

In this video, I’m sharing an inspiring DIY project that shows just how simple it can be to elevate your space using stencils. It’s a creative idea that’s perfect for anyone who loves experimenting with home decor and wants to add a personal touch to their furniture.

Thank you for watching!

Inspired to Try Your Own Stencil Makeover?

I hope this video sparked your creativity and gave you the inspiration to transform your own table or flat surface with a beautiful stencil design. It’s amazing how a little creativity can completely refresh a piece and add a personal touch to your home.

If you’re ready to start your own project, the stencil used in this video is available in our shop (Here’s a quick link). It’s a great way to achieve the same stunning results and bring a unique flair to your space. Don’t forget to tag us in your finished projects—we’d love to see your creations!

Get Creative!

Here we go…Bismillah!

In this video, we explore the concept of focal points in home decor, focusing specifically on how to enhance your family room’s design. Understanding focal points can transform your space, creating a more inviting and visually appealing atmosphere. Whether it’s a stunning piece of art, a beautiful fireplace, or an eye-catching furniture arrangement, we’ll discuss how to make these elements shine.

I hope you enjoyed the video and learned about the importance of focal points in interior design. I’m excited to offer personalized decorating advice to my subscribers! Send me your family room photos, and I’ll evaluate them in an upcoming video.

Let’s work together to elevate your home’s style!

Lama

People often ask us what decals are and what is the difference between them and stickers? My simplified answer to that is that decals are similar to stickers but without the white background.

With stickers, the design is usually printed on a white adhesive backing. When ready to apply, you just remove the paper backing and stick it wherever you want. Decals, on the other hand, are designs cut into special paper (usually vinyl) and transferred from masking sheets to smooth surfaces.

Decals consist of 3 layers:

1. (White) Paper backing
2. Design (words, calligraphy, pattern, etc.)
3. (Clear) transfer paper

In today’s video, I’m sharing how to make a wood sign with a decal. I used our ” No Phone Zone” decal on a 6 x 6″ unfinished wood panel.

When you purchase a decal from us, we’ll send application instructions to make the process as easy as possible for you. Here’s how you can apply a decal to any smooth surface.

1. Make sure that the surface is clean and dry. Dust and dirt lessens
   the adhesiveness of the vinyl decal.

2. Lay the decal flat with the transfer paper facing up. Then use a
   credit card to gently rub the transfer paper to ensure proper
   transfer of the vinyl.
3. Mark the center of the decal. Place a long piece of masking tape at
   the centerline to tape the decal from top to bottom. Then, tape
   the decal to the surface where you need to apply it. Make sure it
   is leveled!
4. Starting at the upper right corner, peel the transfer tape and
   vinyl away from the backing paper working your way
   towards the centerline. Once there, use scissors to cut the
   paper backing.
5. Once the paper backing is removed, use a credit card to gently
   rub the transfer paper and vinyl onto the surface. Repeat
   steps 4-5 with the other side.
6. After the decal is attached to your surface, slowly
   peel away the transfer paper. As you are peeling it away, if the
   vinyl does not attach to the surface, cover it again with
   transfer paper, rub it with a credit card, and then peel again.
7. Enjoy your newly decorated surface!

I hope you find this helpful and that this video inspires you to try our decals to make your own wood signs.

Making your own wood sign can be difficult if you choose to start with a piece of wood that needs to be cleaned and sanded, but we’re not going to start there. In today’s video, I’m going to show you how to make a wood sign, the easy way!

I’m using a decal to make this sign, but you could also use a vinyl or reusable stencil.

The supplies you’ll need to make this “Keeping it halal” wood sign :

• Wood block in size 8 x 3 x 1″ (amazon)
• “Keeping it halal” decal in size 7 x 1″ (Home Synchronize)
• Foam brush
• Acrylic paint in black

I hope you find this video helpful!

If you don’t have time to make your own “Keeping it halal” wood sign and would like us to make it for you. You can purchase it here.

When Covid-19 first hit, my sister and I were in Jordan for a trip that was supposed to be 3 weeks but ended up being 5 months (I wrote about that in this post). Alhamdulilah for that gift from Allah! I have beautiful memories from that trip and more from my parents’ last visit to the U.S that I reminisce on when I’m overwhelmed with grief.

I’m sad to turn the page on 2021.

It feels like I’m letting go of my father’s hand and moving forward without him.

I understand that this is the cycle of life and may be THIS IS also why I’m feeling sad.

I realize that we’re here on earth for a short period of time. Each one of us was given unique qualities that would help us accomplish our mission in life. Our purpose of existence.

The question is….

Do you know your unique qualities? Your mission on earth? Your purpose of existence?

I used to think that I have no control over my life. That Allah has ordained everything that happens in my life (Qadar) and I should be patient. I felt helpless. Powerless. Victimized. Why would Allah give us brains (that can think and evolve) if he already ordained everything? Why would he punish us? It didn’t sound fair BUT Allah is AL Adel (The Just).

Something is not right!

Through my journey towards a growth mindset, I’m learning to take responsibility for my role in my life. Like the Ayah above says: Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.

I’m empowered to learn that I’m in control of my life journey.

Growth Mindset— the idea that we can grow our brain’s capacity to learn and to solve problems.

Ted.com

Watching my father’s health deteriorate over the summer was heartbreaking but it made me question my purpose. My legacy. How do I want to be remembered? Who would I want to be by my side when my time comes? How would I want to be comforted? What would make the transition easy on me?

My father fell in Feb. 2021, had a stroke in early May where he lost his ability to talk and care for himself. Surprisingly he could still perform wudu and remembered the prayer movements. He could also verbalize the words alhamdulilah and inshallah. Clearly his subconscious mind was in control. He was acting based on memory.

Actions that he “unknowingly” practiced most of his life were serving him at the end of his life.

In order to have the type of life I want, I need to be deliberate in the actions I practice everyday. Alhamdulilah I’ve already started….

I’m memorizing the Quran because I want to be comforted with the Quran IF I lose my ability to read.

I’m exercising everyday because I want my bones and joints to be strong for prayer.

I’m eating healthy because I want to live a healthy life.

I’m taking care of my children because they’re a gift from Allah and entrusted to me to raise them well.

I’m running my business because I want to shine a light on the beauty of Islam through Arabic Calligraphy.

Looking ahead to 2022, Insha’Allah!

When I launched Home Synchronize in 2013 I knew nothing about creating stencils, decals, websites, logos, or running a business (here’s more about this journey). I googled everything and Alhamdulilah I’m now able to provide you with a large variety of Arabic stencils and Arabic decals to choose from for your creative projects. I especially enjoy working with you on custom orders because it challenges me and makes me feel creative. With that said, I want you to know that this may be the year I take Home Synchronize into a new direction. I’ve been thinking about it for a while but not sure how to proceed. I enjoy being creative, love to learn, and am always eager to help and solve problems. I’m also patient, persistent, disciplined, organized, and know how to manage my time. I’m not sure what this new direction will be but I’ll definitely be mindful of my purpose.

Happy New Year my friends! May Allah bless us with good health and guide us to all that is best for us in this life and after.

Attention future artists!! I know you’ve been wanting to create your own Arabic/Islamic art but you’re scared. You’re scared of creating something bad. Scared of wasting your time and money. Scared of criticism. Your mind will come up with any excuse not to do it. Well, I’m going to challenge your mind today!!

I created this kit with you in mind. Someone who considers themselves “artistically challenged” but willing to challenge themselves to learn a new skill. This kit is perfect for you as a beginner. You’ll have everything you need to create a piece of Arabic/Islamic art that you’ll be proud of.

In today’s video, I’ll be showing you how to use our Arabic Stencil Art Kit. I’ll walk you through each step so you can feel confident in using our kit. I’m also going to provide online support to answer any of your questions.

What does the art kit include?

• One pre-stained, or pre-painted wood panel in size 6 x 6″
• One vinyl Arabic calligraphy stencil in size 4 x 4″
• 2 paint colors
• 2 sponge wedges

Not included in the kit but will need is sharp tweezers (pin, or x-acto knife), and paper towel. You may also need masking tape. 

What’s great about this art kit?

• We’re saving you time by supplying you with a pre-stained/pre-painted wood panel. You don’t have to worry about painting your background and waiting for it to dry. You can jump into stenciling as soon as you receive your kit.

• We’re saving you money by sending you the exact amount of paint you’ll need for your project.

• Clean up is easy! Vinyl stencil and foam wedges are disposable.

• Our vinyl stencil has a low tack adhesive backing which allows it to stick to the wood panel, hence reducing paint bleed. This will result in a crisp (not blurry) design as if it was hand drawn by a calligrapher. (No one needs to know otherwise)!

• ADDED BONUS!! We can customize this kit by providing you with a custom Arabic stencil design. Contact us (here) to discuss your idea.

We want to save you time and money and encourage you to tap into your creative side. Our Arabic stencil art kit will not only accomplish that but they also make excellent gifts. When you’re shopping for Ramadan, Eid, Hifz or birthday parties, consider grabbing this Art kit from Home Synchronize.

What do you think? Would this Arabic Stencil Art kit ease your fears? If not, I’d love to hear from you. Comment below and let me know how I can help.

Much love,

Lama

Arabic calligraphy is precut on self-adhesive cardstock. Just peel and stick! No need for glue (which means less mess to clean-yay)! The adhesive is not permanent so gently peel off to reposition. 

Where should you apply our self-adhesive Arabic Calligraphy cardstock?

I like to apply it on scrapbook paper then frame it. Super easy and will last a long time. Here are some pieces that I sold at ICNA a couple of years ago using self-adhesive cardstock.

Another option is to apply our self-adhesive Arabic calligraphy cardstock on canvas. I had my 10 year old try it but the adhesive on the cardstock was not strong enough to stay in place. If your goal is to teach your child Arabic alphabets and introduce them to Arabic calligraphy art, then the cardstock would be perfect! However, if you want to turn it into a piece of art to decorate your home with, then I highly recommend that you top it with a layer of ModPodge to protect it. You may need to help your child with this step as the cardstock pieces will not stick to the canvas.

You can also apply it to wood canvas, or wood block but I highly recommend that you top it off with a layer of ModPodge to protect it.

I hope you’ll love this new product as much as we do!

If you’d like to give our self-adhesive Arabic calligraphy cardstock a try , then click here to visit our shop.

Did you purchase any of our self-adhesive Arabic calligraphy cardstock? We’d love to share it and show it off to our readers. Email us at lama@homesynchronize.com, share your photos on our Facebook page or tag us on Instagram with #homesynchronize

Supply List for products used in this video:

*Arabic reusable stencil (The Kalima in Kufi calligraphy style in size 1 x 6″) from Home Synchronize

*Wood block in size 8 x 3 x 1″

*Deco Art Elegant Finish Metallic acrylic in Rose Gold color

*Stencil Ease stencil adhesive

*FolkArt paint in Black

*Makeup sponge

*Foam brush

*Disposable plate

Have you tried our Arabic stencils? We’d love to share your creative work and show it off to our readers. Email us at lama@homesynchronize.com, share your photos on our Facebook page or tag us on Instagram with #homesynchronize

Best,

Lama

Salaam Everyone! Ever since I wrote this post (exploring Islamic interior design), I’ve been eager to apply Arabic calligraphy on different mediums much like early Muslim artists did. Now that I’m able to turn Islamic calligraphy into stencils, this seems more doable.

In today’s video, I’m sharing a super easy way to paint Islamic calligraphy on glass (you don’t need a stencil for this). If you’re a beginner, this video is for you. Enjoy!

Supplies I used in this video:

*Black and white print of Arabic calligraphy (I used Bismillah Al Rahman Al Raheem in Kufic calligraphy style)

*Gallery Glass window color from Plaid (Pumpkin Orange color and White color)

*Frame

*Decorative paper

I hope you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. If you decide to try your hand at painting Arabic Calligraphy on glass, post your art and tag me on Instagram @homesynchronize. I’d love to see it.

Salaam Everyone! I’m excited to share a new discovery with you today. Alhamdulilah I finally learned how to create a textured background for art! I don’t consider myself an artist so I get excited when I learn a new technique in art.

What’s texture and what’s so exciting about it?

According to Art Foundations

Texture refers to the surface quality in a work of art. We associate textures with the way that things look or feel. Everything has some type of texture. We describe things as being rough, smooth, silky, shiny, fuzzy and so on. Some things feel just as they appear; this is called real or actual texture. Some things look like they are rough but are actually smooth. Texture that is created to look like something it is not, is called visual or implied texture.

The purpose for including texture in art is to add visual interest by way of creating contrast. In simple words, the art will attract more attention if it includes texture.

In today’s video, I’m sharing my first experience using modeling paste to create texture. I hope you enjoy the video.

To create the art in the video, you’ll need

• Alhamdulilah reusable stencil from Home Synchronize
• Islamic tile pattern reusable stencil from Home Synchronize
• Liquitex Professional Light Modeling Paste
• Ranger Distress Spray Stain By Tim Holten (abandoned coral and cracked pistachio colors)
• DecoArt Elegant Finish Metallic Paint in Rich Espresso color
• Stencil Ease repositionable Stencil Adhesive spray
• Cosmetic sponges
• Palette Knife

I hope you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. If you decide to try it and create texture with paste, post your art and tag me on Instagram @homesynchronize. I’d love to see it.

Lama

I enjoy learning new ways to apply Arabic calligraphy onto different surfaces. One idea that I’ve been wanting to try is stenciling on stained wood. (For stenciling on painted wood see my DIY Zikr wood block tutorial)

In this reverse stenciling tutorial I’ll show you how to add Arabic calligraphy on a wood tray using our Bismillah Al Rahman Al Raheem decal.

Watch the video and read the instructions below to find out how to add Arabic calligraphy to a stained wood tray, wood blocks, or even wood signs.

Supplies for this project:

• Bismillah Al Rahman Al Raheem decal
• Unfinished wood tray
• Wood stain (I used walnut finish)
• White paint
• Rag
• Foam brushes

Steps to creating a stained wood tray with Arabic calligraphy

• Protect your work area by using newspapers/ old cardboard
• Wear gloves to protect your hands from the stain and work outside or near an open window (Stains have a strong smell)
• Lightly dip the foam brush and apply the stain to all sides of the tray
• Immediately after that, use the rag to wipe the stain and create a more even look.
• Allow it to dry completely before applying the decal
• Follow the application instructions to carefully add the decal to the tray. (Take your time to avoid tearing the decal)
• Apply masking tape to protect the sides of the tray.
• Paint over the decal with white paint (I applied 3 coats of paint)
• Slowly peel off the decal to reveal the design.
• Remove the masking tape
• (Optional) Apply stain over the finished design then wipe it off. (I chose to add the stain to tone down the while color)
• Apply 2 coats of water based polyurethane to the stenciled area of the tray to protect it from spills and scratches.

That’s it! A DIY stained wood tray with Arabic calligraphy!

I’m using this tray for decorative purposes, specifically as an art piece not as a serving tray. The wood is too fragile to be used for serving and it is not befitting to place anything on top of the Islamic calligraphy design I chose.

Have you tried stenciling on stained wood? What did you find challenging? Please feel free to share your expertise in the comments below.

When I had my first child, I wanted him to feel excited about Ramadan. As anyone who lives in a non-muslim country would tell you, this is a challenge! Unlike muslim countries where the whole society is celebrating the holy month, we are now responsible as individuals to foster Eman, and create positive memories. Our homes and the traditions we create as a family will give our children positive feelings about the holy month of Ramadan.

How do you prepare your home for Ramadan?

First and foremost, focus on the purpose of Ramadan and don’t get sucked into a competition to have the best Ramadan decoration. Your children will not remember your perfectly decorated home for Ramadan, but they WILL remember the joy they felt helping you craft or put up Ramadan decorations. In other words, create Ramadan traditions that will help them grasp the blessings of this month. There are no rules. No right or wrong way.

Here are some ideas you can try with your family this Ramadan:

Encourage Learning

• Read Quran as a family. When my children were younger, I would choose a Sura and have each member of the family (parents included) read one Ayah at a time until the Sura is finished or until a page is finished. This would encourage the children to read the Quran without feeling pressured, judged (or bored).

• Each family member is assigned an hour (before or after Iftar) to tell/read a story of a prophet of their choice. Ask them to prepare for this “presentation” by reading and taking notes ahead of time. This will not only teach them about prophets, it’ll teach them valuable skills in preparation, presentation, and communication. For older children, ask them to also share what they learned from that story and turn it into a family discussion where everyone shares what they learn. Another idea is to explore the meaning of each one of Allah’s 99 names.

• Pray together. We all know the importance of salat-ul-Jama’ah (congregational prayer) in the masjid but imagine the value of that within your own family. By praying together as a family, you’re not only teaching your children to pray, you are building love, trust, and security within the family. Designate a corner in your home for prayer, here are 5 steps to creating an Islamic prayer room in your home.

Encourage Giving

• Share an Iftar dish with the neighbors (or invite them over for Iftar). When we live in a non-muslim country, this generous act is even more rewarding because it spreads the word about Islam. Read this article about sharing Ramadan experiences with non-muslims for more ideas.

• Ramadan card exchange: This is a fun activity to do with the kids that can develop into building friendships with children from around the world. With a Spin explains this activity and offers ways to help you make the best of it.

• “Adopt” a needy family and take care of them during this month (you’ll develop a connection with them and you WILL keep checking on them throughout the year). I want to encourage my children to give from what they love. In order to do that, I would take them to the home of a needy family to see for themselves how they can help. They may need groceries, clothes, beds, water, heat, air conditioning, blankets, school supplies, etc. We won’t know until we visit them in their own home.

Encourage Family Time

• Prepare a meal together. Often times the memories are not of the actual meals but of the experience of making it together as a family. Bake cookies, make a salad, even just helping to set up the Iftar table will give you shared memories.

• Craft together. One of my favorite ways to bond with my children and teach them great lessons. Here’s a craft that I did with my girls years ago and we’re still using to this day. Pinterest is filled with ideas on Ramadan crafts.

• Decorate for Ramadan together. Harness your children’s excitement about Ramadan by involving them in decorating the home. Have them pick out Ramadan decor, make their own, or hang up decorations. I miss doing this with my girls this year but Insha’Allah I’ll get to do it even better next year.

The month of Ramadan is a great time to reflect on the year that was, and plan for the year to come. It’s about strengthening your faith and your relationship with Allah. It’s an opportunity to form new habits and create positive memories.

What is your fondest memory of Ramadan as a child? What memories do you want to give your children? Focus on these when you’re preparing your home for Ramadan this year.

Ramadan Mubarak my friends! May Allah accept your fast and shower you and your family with His mercy. May He fill your home with blessings and forgive your transgressions. Ameen!

Alhamdulilah, Allah has given us the whole earth as a place of worship! As muslims we are not limited to one specific place to perform our daily prayers. As long as the area is clean, we’re good to go. (Read this post: Decorating a Muslim Home: 8 things you must know)

However, since we pray 5 times a day we often designate one space/area for prayer. How can we make that area a space for calm and peace?

Here are 5 steps that you can take to create an Islamic prayer space/room in your home.

Make it Private: Select a corner in your home that is away from traffic zones, and distractions. You may set up a folding screen to create a private space within the larger space. You can also choose to turn an unused living room, bedroom, or basement into a prayer room.

Make it Peaceful: We strive to have Khushu’ (humility) during prayer so the place we’re offering our prayer in should be a place of calm, soothing feelings. Soft lighting (natural light is best), uncluttered surrounding, and soft colors like pastels invoke feelings of calm and peace.

Keep it clean: In order to ensure the cleanliness of the prayer area, many muslims use a prayer rug-even in their homes- to pray on. This is usually folded and kept in a drawer or shelf to remain clean.

Keep it organized: I like to use closed storage such as drawers, cabinets with doors, decorative baskets/ottomans to store prayer rugs, and prayer clothes. A bookshelf or console table can be used to display religious books/Quran for easy access. Small decorative bowls can be used to keep prayer beads.

Make it Beautiful: Decorate with items that make you feel calm and gives you a sense of peace. I like small plants or a vase with fresh flowers, a mini water fountain, scented candles or air freshener, and of course any Islamic design element such as geometric patterns and Islamic calligraphy.

If you have extra space in your home you probably want to create a prayer room that can serve other functions such reading or entertaining. In this case, you may use floor seating (this is why muslims like floor seating), shelving, wall to wall carpeting or area rugs, and easy to move tables. The goal is to create an open, comfortable, and inviting space for prayer.

Keeping the above 5 steps in mind, I hope you can take some inspiration from the following spaces

Does your prayer room give you a sense of calm? What would you change to improve it? Comment below and feel free to share a picture of your prayer space with us.

Much love,

Lama

Is this a dream? Am I really living through a Pandemic? I learned about those in history class back in the day. It was scary to read about the suffering, the loss, the chaos, the fear of the people living during those times. And now, I’m living it! I’m experiencing the fear. I’m seeing the chaos. I pray to God that I don’t experience the loss.

On March 8, my sister and I took the risk and travelled to Jordan to visit our parents. A week later, the government closed its borders and then 5 days later, we were put on lockdown. Even though we only had a small number of cases of Covid-19, the governemnt took extreme measures to protect its people. Here’s a story on NPR about that. Honestly, as difficult as it is to be on lockdown, we welcomed those steps to protect us.

Today is day 12 since the government announced the curfew. We’re able to receive gas, bottled water, and medicine but we haven’t (as of yet) received our order of groceries. We’re allowed to go on foot to purchase what we need but we’re choosing to stay home to minimize our risk of exposure to the Corona virus. Alhamdulilah we have everything we need thus far but we’re starting to run out of fresh fruits and vegetables. We’re hopeful that this situation won’t get any worse and that Allah reveals the cure to this virus sooner than later.

How am I doing?

As you can imagine, in the beginning my anxiety was up the roof. All this talk about the number of cases, number of deaths, and how long this may take, is really scary! I also had horrible thoughts about my husband and children getting sick or running out of food while I’m miles away. Thoughts about my business that I built from scratch collapsing because I’m unable to run it from here. This feeling of “I’m not in control” is discouraging.

As a practicing Muslim, I lean in to my faith for guidance and support. I’m reminded by the story of prophet Moses as he and his followers were running away from the Pharaoh and were faced with the seafront. The Israelites were fearful and exclaimed to Moses that they would be overtaken by the Pharaoh and his army. Prophet Moses stood there and told them: “My lord is with me and He WILL guide me”. At that moment Allah instructed Moses to strike the sea with his staff causing the sea to divide into two parts that allowed the Israelites to pass through to safety.

This brought me so much comfort and allowed me to focus on what I have and can control at the present moment.

I can control what I read and listen to:

*I’m NOT going to read about the number of cases and deaths here or around the world. This information will only cause me to be scared which is not helpful.

*I’m going to focus on the positive steps taken to find a cure for this virus.

*I’m going to watch comedy shows to relief my stress.

*I’m going to listen to Podcasts with positive messages. I’m enjoying “The Brendon Show”, “The life coach school”, and “Tom Bilyeu”. I’m also listening to Islamic lectures from “Mufti Mink” and “Mohammad Nouh Al Qudah”.

I can control how to manage my day:

I traveled to Jordan with the intention of relaxing and enjoying my break with my sister and parents. It’s a different story now and it may take a long time before life goes back to “normal”. I’m starting a new daily routine that includes time to exercise, catch up on work, set goals for my business, and work on self growth. I feel so much in control now and I don’t feel like I’m wasting my time while waiting for answers.

Practicing gratitude:

I’m grateful that I get to spend time with my parents.

I’m grateful we are all healthy.

I’m grateful my husband and children are healthy.

I’m grateful we have internet.

A simple daily exercise that has huge benefits especially during this time is practicing gratitude (I wrote about gratitude journaling in this post). With practice we’ll be able to cultivate an attitude of gratitude and we’ll feel less anxious during this global health crisis.

How are you doing?

How do you keep yourself busy?

What are you grateful for?

Please share your thoughts in the comments below so we can help each other cope and stay positive.

Stay safe!

Lama

I’ve been reading and learning a lot recently about gratitude journaling. It’s a practice of writing down the things that you’re grateful for in a journal. I’ve read that doing this activity on a daily basis has many benefits (see these 7 scientifically proven benefits of gratitude…). One that stood out for me was the fact that gratitude reciprocates-its a gift that keeps on giving.

Does that sound familiar?

Here’s what Allah tells us in Surat Ibrahim [14:7]

Subhan Allah! We come across so many verses in the Quran that talk about the benefits of gratitude, how to be grateful and why to be grateful. For example,

In Chapter 55 of the Quran, titled “The Lord of Mercy,” God asks the same question thirty-one times, “Which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?” God has created us and then made this world for us. We are getting benefits from all of His creations such as the sun, moon, clouds, rain, air, grasslands, animals, plants, rivers, oceans and countless other bounties of the natural world! After realizing all this abundance, how can a sensible person be anything but thankful to God?

Why Islam

What is gratitude?

It’s that emotion you feel when someone gives you something that you perceive as valuable.

Alhamdulilah!

These are the words that we’ve been taught to say when we feel grateful. However, we’ve been saying them so many times throughout the day that they’ve lost their meaning.

I believe that that’s where gratitude journaling can help get us back on track.

Start by writing down 3 things you’re grateful for each morning, and why. This will help you think deep so you can generate the feeling of gratitude. Avoid just listing things. The more you elaborate on why you’re grateful for that thing, the better you’ll feel.

I’m still new to this but here’s an example:

Alhamdulilah I’m grateful for my home that shelters me from harm and provides me with a canvas to practice my decorating skills (Hey, I’m an interior decorator after all :)).

Let’s commit to writing in our gratitude journal each morning so we can train our mind to look for the blessings in our lives. This is in itself a blessing. It will reciprocate in this dunia (life) as well as in the akhera (hereafter) insha’Allah.

What are you grateful for?

Why are you grateful for that?

How do you feel when you think about that?

I’d love to know your thoughts about the gratitude journal and what things you’re grateful for. Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

During the summer, on our connecting flight back from Amman to Paris, we encountered bad turbulence. It was scary. I was nervous and my daughters were panicking!

Did you know that when we get anxious (or panic) we tend to take quick and short breaths? This eventually causes hyperventilation and we start feeling light-headed, dizzy, confused, shaky, and our heart starts beating fast.

One sure way to stop the panic is to slow down the breathing.

Take a deep breath, expanding your belly. Pause. Exhale slowly to the count of five. Repeat four times.

Congratulations. You’ve just calmed your nervous system.

Lesley Alderman-The New York Times

As muslims we can use the words in zikr to calm us down spiritually and physically. Try it with me.

Take a deep breath saying Subhan Allah

Hold the breath

Slowly breath out Alhmadulilah.

Take a deep breath saying La Illaha Illa Allah.

Hold the breath

Slowly breath out Allahu Akbar.

I had my daughters slowly repeat this over and over again during turbulence. It gave them something positive to focus on and it slowed down their breathing…… and insha’Allah they’ll be rewarded for remembering Allah. A win-win in my book.

Reciting daily zikr not only helps us during tough times (think turbulence), we need to use it to establishes a connection with Allah (SWT) and build a relationship with him. Life gets busy and we get caught up in our endless daily responsibilities and we forget that Allah is in control.

Allah SWT says: And remember your Lord when you forget [al-Kahf 18:24].

So how do we remember Allah?

One way is by reciting Zikr throughout the day.

Say Subhan Allah (Tasbeeh), Alhamdulilah (Tahmeed), La Illaha Illa Allah (Tahleel), Allahu Akbar (Takbeer)

Do you feel that you need a reminder to recite Zikr daily?

That’s when meaningful home decor comes into play.

Today I’m going to show you how to make these Zikr wood blocks. You can place them on the fireplace mantel, on a bookshelf, on a console table, or wherever you need the reminder to repeat your zikr. I hope you enjoy!

These are easy to finish blocks and would make great gifts too.

Purchase Subhan Allah mini decal HERE

Purchase Alhamdulilah mini decal HERE

Purchase Allah Akbar mini decal HERE

Purchase these Zikr wood blocks HERE

Combining stencil designs with different colors creates impressive layered artwork. Today I’m sharing a simple idea that may inspire you to create your own Layered Islamic artwork. I started with an Islamic tile design stencil then added Arabic calligraphy on top to create an interesting piece of Islamic art.

The Arabic stencil I used is Subhan Allah Al Azeem (Glorified is Allah, the great!)

Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet, peace be upon him, said, “There are two phrases that are light on the tongue but heavy on the scale of rewards and are dear to (Allah) the Gracious One. These are, subhanallah wa bi-hamdihi (All Glory is to Allah and all Praise to Him), and subhanallah al-azim (Glorified is Allah, the Great).” (Muslim, Bukhari, and Tirmidhi)

This was my first project with layering stencils and I loved it. Insha’Allah I plan to explore layering with more than two stencils and to use different mediums. I’m sure it’ll be fun to try new things and get those creative juices flowing.

I found this interesting and thought that you might too.

“The word zellige certainly has the same origin as azulejos. It is an ornamental technique that has grown in Spain and North Africa since the 12^th century. It has became an integral part of Moroccan architecture where the finest examples can be admired. Its manufacturing process is reminiscent of both the mosaic and marquetry. Mud bricks are glazed, these monochrome bricks are baked, cut into geometric shapes (squares, diamonds, triangles, stars, crosses, various polygons …) and then combined to form joint geometric drawings, sometimes extremely complex”. Source  (See the process of making Zellige tile here)

“A mosaic is a piece of art or image made from the assemblage of small pieces of colored glass, stone, or other materials. It is often used in decorative art or as interior decoration. Most mosaics are made of small, flat, roughly square, pieces of stone or glass of different colors, known as tesserae. Some, especially floor mosaics, are made of small rounded pieces of stone, and called “pebble mosaics”. Others are made of other materials”. Source

Muhammad Taher design

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3. Create an astounding focal point that will not be ignored

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5. Accentuate stair risers with colorful patterns

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Beit al Quran Museum, Manama, Bahrain.

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•  Make sure that the surface is clean and dry. Dust and dirt lessens the adhesiveness of the vinyl decal.
•  Lay the decal flat with the transfer paper facing up. Then use a credit card to gently rub the transfer paper to ensure proper transfer of the vinyl.
• Mark the center of the decal. 
Place a long piece of masking tape at the center line to tape the decal from top to bottom. Then, tape the decal to the surface where you need to apply it. Make sure it is leveled!
• Starting at the upper right corner, peel the transfer tape and vinyl away from the backing paper working your way towards the center line. Once there, use scissors to cut the backing paper.
• Once the baking paper is removed, use a credit card to gently rub the transfer paper and vinyl onto the surface. 
Repeat steps 5-6 with the other side.
• After the calligraphy decal is attached to your surface, slowly peel away the transfer paper. As you are peeling it away, if the vinyl does not attach to the surface, cover it again with transfer paper, rub it with a credit card, and then peel again.
• Enjoy your newly decorated surface!

• Choose low seating furniture.

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•  Choose a sofa with straight lines (see how the sofa seat is rectangular in shape).

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• Go deep! Pile colorful pillows in varying sizes for comfort

• For a formal look, select solid color fabric for the sofa cover

• For a casual look, select colorful and patterned fabric

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Ramadan Mubarak to all my Muslim readers! May Allah bless you and accept your fast and prayers as well as your good deeds this holy month

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, is about to start. Some Muslims like to prepare their bodies for this month of fasting by following the Sunnah and fasting during the month of Shaban especially the 14th and 15th. It is not an obligatory fast but the prophet (PBUH) informed us that these nights have special blessings for the faithful.

Some Muslims also like to get in the spirit of Ramadan by decorating their homes.  Growing up in Jordan, we never decorated our homes for Ramadan. The spirit of Ramadan was in the air and it was oh. so .beautiful. When I moved to the U.S. and had my first child I felt I had to create a Ramadan vibe in my home. There were no decorations available on the market that I could use specifically for Ramadan like there are today but I managed to make our home feel festive to welcome this blessed month.

Here are some of the Ramadan home decor we offer in our shop

I believe that it is prudent to take advantage of the blessed days of Ramadan to reassess our faith and set goals for the year ahead. When you’re planning your Ramadan decor this year, try to have a reason (function) for each piece of accessory that you choose to decorate with.

In order to plan the right Ramadan decoration ask yourself the following questions:

What do I want my home to feel like during this holy month?

If you enjoy the simple lifestyle of the prophet (PBUH) and the look of his modest houses, then maybe you’d like to recreate something similar in your home. Designate a room (space) in your home to add floor seating (affiliate*), add an area rug and a low level table. Scatter large pillows for extra seating and decorate with lanterns and Islamic wall art. Use this room to pray, read the Quran and discuss Islamic principles with your kids.

Do I need reminders for dua’ and Zikr?

Allah has promised us that the reward for good deeds is increased during the month of Ramadan. Doing daily Zikr is also a form of good deed that we tend to overlook. Create a piece of artwork with a dua'(supplication) that you’d like to memorize and hang it where you can read it all the time.

Do I want to train myself and my kids to save money in order to give to charity EVERY month?

Listen to this beautiful Ayah (24 &25) from Surat Al Maarij

وَالَّذِينَ فِي أَمْوَالِهِمْ حَقٌّ مَّعْلُومٌ , لِّلسَّائِلِ وَالْمَحْرُومِ

“Wallatheena fe amwalihim haqqun Maaloom lilssaili waalmahroom” which translates to “And those within whose wealth is a known right,for the petitioner and the deprived”.

While some people believe that the term known right refers to the zaka that is the exact quantity and obligatory on everyone, I take the opinion that it refers to the charity that one gives other than the zaka.

So if you’d like to start practicing to save a fixed amount of money in order to give to charity on a regular basis, then try this idea. Decorate a collection jar for each member of the family. Decide on a set amount to place in the jar each night after iftar and commit to it. If you miss a day of fasting due to illness or travel, add extra money to the jar. This also helps children learn about the Kaffara for missing days of fasting.

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Do I want to train myself to pray and read the Quran on a regular basis?

We are not all at the same level of Eman but we can take advantage of these blessed days of Ramadan to improve our Deen. Create a nook in your home, away from distractions, that inspires you to pray and read the Quran. Use your favorite prayer rug (don’t save it for the guests ;)), light up the lanterns, and decorate it with an inspiring piece of Islamic art. Choose a time in the day to read at least a page of Quran during the month of Ramadan. Then commit to keep it up even after the month is over. With time, you’ll feel like you need to read more pages and you’ll seek ways to understand the words and the meaning behind them.

How do I help my kids feel excited about a month of fasting? Include your kids in planning Ramadan decorations and have them create their own handmade decor. This will not only get them excited to fast but it will create memories and start new family traditions. Here are some of my favorite kids craft ideas to welcome Ramadan.

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So what are the goals that you try to set for Ramadan? Do you use your home decor to help you achieve these goals? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share them in the comments below.

*Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. Please understand that I recommend these companies because they are reliable and offer quality products, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something through my links. Please do not spend any money on these products unless you feel you need them or that they will help you achieve your goals. Remember that YOU are still responsible to do your research and decide for yourself if this product or service is right for you.

1. A wooden plaque
2. Wall Paper (any design)
3. Vinyl decal (I used a vinyl decal that says; Masha’Allah which translates to “Glory be to Allah” but you can use any vinyl decal)
4. Modpodge to seal the art (optional)
5. Foam brush

“Allah does not burden a soul with more than it can handle”

1. A glass Vase
2. Etching cream (I used Armour Etch)
3. Masking tape
4. Wet paper towels (or you can rinse under running water)

Throughout the Muslim lands, craftsmen treated wood as a precious resource, and they learned to use small pieces of it to great artistic advantage, elaborating such techniques as mashrabiyya, in which lathe-turned pieces of wood are joined into grille-work, often used as a screen over a window; inlay, in which little pieces of colored woods are inserted into recesses carved in a larger piece of wood; and marquetry, in which a surface is entirely covered with little pieces of wood veneer laid side-by-side to form patterns. (Source: Islamic arts)

1. Select rich warm colors such as red, gold, green, brown, or navy to give your home a luxurious Middle Eastern vibe. 
2. Floor seating is popular not only in the Middle East but around the Muslim world. To create floor seating, build a low level bench, top with a thick mattress then scatter pillows all over for comfort. Or simply toss pillows (like these Palestinian embroidered pillows) on the floor to encourage floor seating.
3. Include Islamic art elements such as Islamic geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy in the form of area rugs, throw pillows and wall art.
4. Invest in a single piece of furniture or accessory that is either carved or inlaid with mother of pearl. The Ottomans inlaid mother of pearl into intricate designs as ornamentation in mosques, castles, furniture and accessories. Since these can be pricy, select pieces that mimic the look of mother of pearl for a luxurious Middle Eastern feel.
5. Privacy is of utmost importance in Islam so latticed window screens became a feature of Islamic architecture that provide privacy, climate control, and of course, aesthetics. You can replicate that look in your home with a Moorish inspired window shade.
6. Decorate with Lanterns. During the Islamic civilization, lanterns were used to light the streets especially during religious festivals. They are an inexpensive way to add a Middle Eastern vibe to your living space.
7. Scatter Middle Eastern inspired home accents around your home. Look for ones that are made of brass, bronze or copper as well as ceramics and pottery.This article was first published in Spotdeco, an online home and decor blog.

Bedawi.com

1. Stretched Canvas
2. Print out of “Allah” in Kufi calligraphy style
3. #2 Pencil
4. Decorative paper cut in small squares
5. Glue

1. It was named after a city in Iraq.
2. The letters are angular in shape.
3. It was the main script used to copy the Quran.

Islamic Arts

Abul Aswad ad-Du’ali is credited with the invention of placing diacritical points to distinguish between certain identical consonants such as the ‘gaf’ and ‘fa’ in the Arabic alphabet. This system of diacritical marks is known as Tashkil (vocalization). Different colors also were introduced to differentiate between these marks–black for the diacriticals and red or yellow for the vocalics. Source

Islamic Arts & Architecture

Much better! I can recognize a couple of words but not all. How about you? Are you able to read this page of the Quran from the 11-12th centuries? According to the source above, this is Aya 35-36 from Surat Gaffer. Suddenly it all makes sense now.

Decorative designs of this script could be seen on some pillars, minarets, porches and on walls of palaces. These decorations have been either done through plaster molding or by stone carving. Some ingenious craftsmen or artisans have successfully shown their artistic creations concerning Kufic script, in fine and multi-colored glazed tiles and sorted-out bricks. The history of all this covers a long period of 1000 years. Source

Minarets in Yazd, Iran (image by Mark Schlegel)

11th century ceramic bowl with Kufi script (Life in Minutes)

Islamic Arts & Architecture

Studying the Calligraphy on Islamic coins can be a great source of information about the evolution of calligraphy styles through the Islamic civilization. The coins above are from the early Islamic dynasty. Can you pick out the coin with the Kufi style?

Sultan Hasan Mosque in Cairo, Egypt (Stars in Symmetry)

 (Image from Sakkal.com)

To truly appreciate a work of art, you need to see it as more than a single, isolated creation: there must be context. This is because art is not timeless. Every painting is created within a particular environment, and if you do not understand that environment, you will never be able to appreciate what the artist has to offer you. This is why, when you study the work of a particular artist, it makes sense to learn something about his life and the culture in which he lived.

• Vinyl lettering.  I used my cutting machine to design and cut the words out but you can use vinyl letters that can be found in office stores.
• 12 x 12″ white canvas.
• Wooden letters
• Gold metallic spray paint.
• Tacky glue
• Fine glitter
• Modpdge with foam brush

1. Eid Loop Banner from Eccentric Designs 102. A beautiful damask banner made from card stock and embellished with dangling acrylic crystals. Best of all, it can be customized in any color.
2. Set of 3 wall canvases with Tasbeeh (Subhan Allah, Alhamdulilah, Allah Akbar) from Personal Islamic Gifts. I love the raised 3D effect of the calligraphy. 
3. Islamic canvas in golden colors from My Veil Arts. This artisan paints beautiful henna patterns and jewels onto canvases and candles. So creative mashallah! 
4. Islamic Fridge Magnet with Shahada from Color My Wall. 
5. “Alhamdulilah” 3D Table Decor from Modern Wall Art 1. This shop specializes in 3D Islamic decor and they carry a wide variety of Islamic calligraphy quotes. 
6.  3D Islamic calligraphy sculpture from Bella 3D Models featuring “Alhamdulilah Rab Al Alameen”. Made out of 3 interlocking layers of plexiglass and painted with glass paint. Eye catching and unique! You can tell that I have a thing for 3D calligraphy?  
7. Islamic magnets on tile from Remembrance In Art. A creative way to surround yourself with Islamic reminders and strengthen your faith. Love it! 
8. Hand engraved “Bismillah Al Rahman Al Raheem” in Arabic calligraphy with English translation on curved glass plaque from IcBazar. This shop carries a beautiful variety of crystal collection etched with Islamic calligraphy. An elegant gift idea for the home or the office. 
9. Islamic calligraphy painting of Surat Ikhlas from Islamic Imprints.  
10. Paper cut family tree with Islamic calligraphy from Huez Unlimited. Elegant and delicate paper cut art that is ready to frame. 

My Booth at ICNA Convention

• Canvas
• Islamic Calligraphy reusable stencil
• Acrylic paint (I used folkArt Buttercup, Bright green, Pueblo)
• Sea sponge or dauber
• ModPodge
• Stencil Adhesive
• Masking tape

• Decide on your placement. Apply a thin coat of stencil adhesive to the back of the stencil then place it on the canvas; make sure it is straight. I like to use masking tape around my stencil sheet to secure it in place and protect the canvas from accidental paint drips.

• Load a sea sponge or good quality dauber with paint. Dab off the excess paint onto a paper towel so that it is almost dry. When done right, it should prevent paint bleed under your stencil.

• Hold your brush at a 90-degree angle with the surface, and then color in the calligraphy stencil in soft dabbing motion. Gradually build up the coverage of paint by repeating step 2-3.

• Repeat steps 2 and 3 with the other colors.

• Once done, slowly lift the stencil. As you can see, with all the precautions, I still had some paint bleed. Usually, I carefully scrape it off with the edge of my X-Acto knife, but since I had that layer of Mod Podge applied in the first step, I could not correct the bleed. Mod Podge acts as a sealant so it is better applied AFTER the art is finished.

• I finished off my art with an arabesque pattern decal border that I cut on my machine. Then I sealed everything with a layer of ModPodge.

• Carefully wipe the stencil with a damp paper towel. Then after it dries store it in its original bag for your next project. Visit the DIY section for more inspiration on how to use Islamic calligraphy stencils.

“Hi Lama !  I am really impressed with your page good job with it ! I live in Western Africa and have been contracted to design the interior of a Muslims home. ( I am not one myself) but I am curious to know if there are certain things for eg colors, furniture types or furniture placements that I must avoid so as not to offend”. Nana Boateng

• Islam is a religion that encourages humility, but that doesn’t mean that homes must be bland. Its similar to the dynamic between confidence and arrogance: confidence is going into a room knowing that you are the best, while arrogance is going into a room and telling everyone that you are the best. Likewise, a muslim home should be decorated with love but it should not scream out wealth and extravagance. Unfortunately, over the years, extravagance has been the hallmark of Islamic design. (Check out my posts on Burj al Arab, and Arabian luxury living)

• The ONLY rule that you should consider when decorating a Muslim home is not to include any figurative objects in the design plan. This means, no art with human or animal shapes as well as no free standing statues or animal figures in furniture or accessories. Choose to decorate with abstract art, landscape scenes, or Islamic calligraphy art instead.

Interiors Online Wafa Islamic Arts

• A wide range of Muslims consider the color Green as a muslim color because it is mentioned in the Quran (Surah 76:21).

Upon the inhabitants will be green garments of fine silk and brocade. And they will be adorned with bracelets of silver, and their Lord will give them a purifying drink.

Royal Mansour Marrakech

• Muslims pray 5 daily prayers facing the Ka’ba (this is referred to as the qibla), some if not all can be offered in a group setting. Therefore, you will find a room (or space) designated for prayer in most of muslim homes. In space planning for the prayer area, one should keep in mind that it should not be in a traffic zone, facing a bathroom, or any distraction. Below is a picture of the prayer area in our home. As you can see, we have chosen the dining room as our prayer area. It is the least active being away from the kids and the TV. The qibla is facing the window, so any traffic from the adjacent rooms can pass behind the person praying without bothering them.

• Privacy is of atmost importance in a Muslim home, so window shades that allow light to penetrate while providing privacy should be selected. Shades decorated with Islamic geometric patterns would add an Islamic vibe to the design of the room.

Islamic Style Window Screens

• Some Muslims prefer floor or low level seating following the sunnah of the prophet (PBUH). This can be as simple as arranging a number of mattresses around the perimeter of a room directly on the floor, or raised on a frame. You can read more about this style of seating in this post.

• And finally, shoes are prefered off in a Muslim home because they bring impurities especially in areas where the prayer takes place. While decorating consider creating a space for guest shoes as well as the owners’ so shoes don’t pile up and create an eye sore. Another decorating solution for this problem would be to include area rugs instead of carpets so that guests can keep their shoes on while visiting.

Mediterranean Living Room by Montreal Interior Designers & Decorators Rebecca Mitchell Interiors & Boutique

Image Credit: Jacques Pépion/ANM

Humans almost intuitively place a high value on gold, equating it with power, beauty, and the cultural elite. And since gold is widely distributed all over the globe, we find this same thinking about gold throughout ancient and modern civilizations everywhere.”

Burj Al Arab

Image Credit: Jacques Pépion/ANM

SAM A RAFEY INTERIOR ARCHITECT

(It is) optimistic and positive. Gold adds richness and warmth to everything with which it is associated. It illuminates and enhances other things around it

 Congratulations

Mubarak your Eid

Alhamdulilah for your safe return 

Congrats graduation

Hajj Mabroor (congrats for Hajj)

May Allah Make this a happy baby 

• Thank you to Hani Shabbir from Craftionary for this simple and elegant download. You just need a frame and a sharpie to countdown for Eid. Brilliant!

• The next inspiration comes from Dream, Create who shared a simple way to make elegant lanterns using a paper cutter

•  Another wonderful idea to encourage our children to save money (for charity), check these colorful jars from Noor Janan homeschool. She used them for goodies but they are so pretty you could punch a hole in the lid and turn them into piggy banks.

• I really want to try this next idea with my daughter. Mini Lanterns from Ramadan Joy. Imagine colorful scattered mini lanterns on the Iftar table.

• Here is another simple idea from Ramadan Joy, A colorful letter Garland.

•  Finally, a not so simple idea but it sure looks amazing! She calls it an onion dome box, I call it a mini minaret. If any of you out there are as talented as this person, I am sharing this for you.

• Stretched canvas
• Wooden letters (to spell Ramadan)
• Scrapbook paper
• Paint ( I used Deco Art elegant finish Metallic paint)
• Islamic calligraphy decal
• Mod Podge
• Sponge brushes

Step 10: All Done! 

Note: I used stencil spray adhesive to hold the stencil in place while I applied the paint, but that did not work as good as I had hoped. I had to use masking tape and of course my hand to prevent the stencil from moving around while applying the paint. Next, I created a vinyl stencil of a border pattern. I adhered it to the shade then painted it green. Once done, I weeded out the vinyl to expose the pattern.

Next, I created a decal of the Arabic calligraphy phrase “Hallat Alanwar”. In Arab culture, this phrase is often used to welcome visitors. A literal translation of this phrase is “A collection of lights are upon us” (“light” here signifying guests). Perfect for this lampshade, isn’t it?

I painted over the calligraphy with white paint then weeded out the letters to expose the phrase.

I repeated the same steps with the second border.

The next step is with the Arabesque stencil pattern which I transferred to the side of the lampshade. I have to admit. This was the most te.di.ous.work ever! It took me over an hour just to transfer the pattern to the shade!!

Then I used a foam brush to paint over it. 

The fun part was weeding out the vinyl and exposing the pattern. So beautiful and worth the trouble!

And finally, here is my new lamp shade. Tada….

I chose to place the Arabesque pattern on ONE side of the lampshade and the Islamic star pattern on the other side as well as as the back of the shade. This is more interesting than having the Islamic star pattern all around.

God is the Light of the heavens and the earth.The Parable of His Light is as if there were a Niche and within it a Lamp, the Lamp enclosed in Glass: the glass as it were a brilliant starLit from a blessed Tree, an Olive, neither of the east nor of the West,whose oil is well-nigh luminous, though fire scarce touched it. Light upon Light! God doth guide whom He will to His Light. God doth set forth Parables for men: and God doth know all things.

Early Islamic lamps were borrowed from the Roman and Byzantine empires. These clay lamps were used for everyday lighting by burning an oil fed wick.

Ancient Glass

These are oil lamps, usually with a large round bulbous body rising to a narrower waist, above which the top section is flared. There is usually a foot so they can be placed on a surface, but they were normally used suspended by chains that went through a number of loops on the outside of the body. (via Islamic Arts & Architecture)

(…)the inhabitants of other Islamic cities were bound to hang lanterns outside their gates in order to illuminate the streets during major religious festivals or celebrations of important political and social occasions

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My Sweet and Saucy

 Saidia Morocco

Apartment Therapy

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Desire to Inspire

“The scents that are considered helpful in depression are rose, sandalwood, lavender, jasmine, peppermint, citrus, cedar wood, chamomile, geranium and ylang ylang. Look for these fragrances when buying lotion, candles, perfumes, house or car air fresheners” {ehow health}

Bliss Home and Design

Alberto Pinto 

Douglas Friedman 

Hub Pages 

Valerie Dahan

Zen Interiors 

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Ryad Dyor Marrakech

Broosk Saib

Inspiration boards

Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any Rafath (obscenity) or Fusuq (transgression), he returns (free from sin) as the day his mother bore him” (Sahih Bukhari)

Salam my wonderful readers! I have great news to share with you today. Inshallah my husband and I will be going for Hajj this year.  We have planned for it for years, and we are so excited that Allah has blessed us to visit his house this year. For my non muslim friends who follow me, click here for an in-depth explanation of Hajj.

I am so excited to make tawaf around the Ka’ba, Saee between Safa and Marwa, camp in Mina and Musdalefeh, and stand in Arafat. This is going to be such a remarkable spiritual journey!

Islamic posters

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Houzz

Southern Hospitality

Southern Hospitality

Food NetworkHouzz

Southern Living

Houzz

 Traditional handwriting with a metropolitan attitude.

(Read the full interview here)

Quran Verse: “Oh humankind, we have created you from a male and a female and made people and tribes so you may know each other.” el Seed-art

 “On the road to Damascus”-el Seed-art

“The sun rises behind the centuries”-eL Seed -art

eL Seed Solo exhibit in Paris-Copyright © Megan Beneat-Donald [Fair Observer]

eL Seed-art

“Give back at least what you received”-eL Seed-art

I try to break some stereotypes about my culture and my people, but I stay away from positioning myself as a victim and feeling as though I have to justify myself. I am more into affirming and presenting my identity and culture. [Fair Observer]

Given a blank canvas to create whatever he wished, eL Seed decided to tell a story of historical collaboration between East and West. His research led him back to the trade routes and cultural and intellectual exchanges between Venice and the Arab World, and to the discovery of a poem by Palestinian writer Taha Mohammad Ali, ‘Venice Carnival’, praising Venice for its beauty and elegance. EL Seed tells a story of coexistence between two seemingly opposed worlds through the reproduction of this poem. [Savoir Flair]

Complex Art & Design

Al-Maridani Mosque, Egypt

Dering Hall

 Tomb of Itimud ad-Daula, India

Nada Debs-Pomegranate 

Al-Hakim Mosque, Iran

Houzz

Imam Mosque, Iran

Cutting edge Stencils

Sefferine Medersa,Morocco

Fired Earth

Alhambra, Spain

Jonathan Adler

 Alhambra, Spain 

 Decoist

Palais Namaskar Hotel

Lulu DeKwaitkowski

Houzz

The Glamourai

An alcove opening off a room to provide additional or more intimate  space (…)

Creative fan

We do not recommend using them for areas that will come into contact with someone’s mouth or direct contact with food. When working on a glass or ceramic drink ware, be sure to tape or mask a lip line approximately 0.8” or 2cm from the top of the drinking vessel.

Many traditional Bedouin live in tents of goat and camel-hair panels that the women have woven on their narrow ground looms and stitched together. The tents are usually divided into two rooms, one for greeting guests and such, and one specifically for the women. [touregypt.com]

One and only Royal Mirage

Iwangroup.org

El Ramlah Hamra

Profvb.com

I would not mind having a traditional Arabic style seating (*affiliated link) arrangement in my home. It is comfortable and inviting. What do you think? *Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. Please understand that I recommend these companies because they are reliable and offer quality products, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something through my links. Please do not spend any money on these products unless you feel you need them or that they will help you achieve your goals. Remember that YOU are still responsible to do your research and decide for yourself if this product or service is right for you.

• Room Dimension: 20’ Long x 14.5’ Wide
• Focal Points: fireplace and entertainment center.
• Room Function: conversation, entertaining, reading, and watching TV.
• Traffic Pattern:  double entry/exit to the kitchen and access to the upstairs.
• Current furniture: 1 sofa, 2 round swivel rockers, an ottoman, 1 square end tables, 2 round end tables, an area rug, a bookshelf, and an entertainment center.

 Possible Arrangement 1: (Another sofa)

Possible Arrangement 2: (A love seat)

Possible arrangement 3: (A Sectional sofa)

 I like the sectional sofa only because it would give my family room a totally different look. However, for the size I am looking for, it would be the most expensive option. Unless I decide to start from scratch and buy all new furniture.

I hope I was able to show through this weekly series [ Test your furniture arrangement part 1, Part 2, Part 3) that furniture arrangement or rearrangement is a fun process! It is a simple way to update any room and give it a fresh look. You just need to keep in mind three important points; traffic flow, room function, and Focal points.

I could come up with 7 ways to arrange the furniture in our family room, how many ways can you come up with in yours?

Woman’s Day

 Earlier jali work was performed by carving into stone, later it was used more elegantly by the Mughal employed the technique of inlay, using marble and semi-precious stones. Gradually, various materials like ceramic, bricks, marble, limestone, wood, bamboo, etc.,were also used to create these Jali patterns and each material has its own beauty.

Source: katehume.com via Lama on Pinterest

Source: thatbohemiangirl.tumblr.com via Lama on Pinterest

Every space serves a function (what it is used for). For example, a bedroom’s primary function is for sleeping, but it can also be used for changing clothes and reading. So, you buy the furniture that allow you to serve those functions, i.e. bed, nightstand, dresser, and lamps. 

How should you arrange that furniture for the room to be functional?

You have to place the nightstand in such a way that makes it easy for you to reach your reading material. The light coming from the lamp should be at the correct angle to make reading easier. The dresser should have enough space in front of it for opening the drawers and changing your clothes. And finally, there should be a pathway to help you walk around the room with ease.

The first tip to successful furniture arrangement is to consider traffic patterns; the path a person takes to walk from one room to the next. In the example below, the arrows around the perimeter of the room show a traffic pattern. See how easy it would be for a person to enter and exit the room without interrupting a conversation between seated people. 

Knowing the traffic patterns in your home will help you decide on the best furniture arrangement. I have provided an example below for illustration purposes only. In the first plan, a person entering the room has no choice but to walk through the room to get to the other side. This would be annoying for seated people who are trying to watch Tv.   

However, when the furniture is moved to the side of the room, A person has a pathway to get to the other side without interrupting conversations or activities.

A successful traffic pattern is one that reflects adequate Clearance. “Clearance” is the required space between objects for easy traffic flow. When applied correctly, traffic flows smoothly throughout the house. 

I drafted the plan below for one of my design classes. It shows my choice for furniture arrangement in the smiths house. 

 

  

Don’t let the numbers scare you! You don’t have to be exact and carry a tape measure when you arrange the furniture in your home. If you can easily walk around your room without affecting conversations or bumping into furniture, then you have applied proper clearance.

Try to apply this to your home and test your own furniture arrangement.

Imagine that you are a guest visiting your home. Stand at the entrance of your family room then walk to the sofa. Did you bump into any furniture on the way? Did you have to tilt your body to get through? Now imagine your guest walking to the restroom from the sofa. Is there any furniture blocking his/her way? What if he/she decides to help you in the kitchen, how is the traffic pattern from the sofa, or the restroom, to the kitchen? You get the idea, right?

  

Margo Zeidan Tatreez.

A Syrian Inlaid mirror made of walnut wood and adorned with mother of pearl inlay arabesque pattern.

Linda Horn

A pointed arch mirror in a metal frame embossed with an intricate pattern.

A Curated World

A stunning mirror in the shape of an Islamic star framed with mosaics.

Elle Decor

A Dramatic floor mirror adorned with mother of pearl (or bone inlaid).

Lauren Rubintein

Finally, a Nada Dibs mirror featuring an Islamic star pattern in silver brushed metal against blue plexiglass.  {Doesn’t it look as if it is mother of pearl inlaid? }

Which mirror do YOU dream to own?

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Real Simple

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Martha Stewart

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Country Living

Digs Digs

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Alyibnawi

Margo Zeidan Tatreez

Margo Zaidan Tatreez

Houzz

Dwell studio

HGTV

 Robeson Design Studio

 Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart

(scroll below for the answer) 

 Better Homes and Gardens

House of Turquoise

 Houzz.com

Makely Home

 Country Living

The way I see it is this : When it comes to framed wall galleries, whatever you seek to focus attention on should look different from its surrounding!

Have you created a framed wall gallery in your home? I would love to see it. Please share a picture on my facebook page.

Next week, I will share tips on creating successful wall galleries.

Stay close!

Houzz

Better Homes and Gardens

Casasugar.com

Better Homes and Gardens

A variation of that…

The Vintage Wren

If you can’t think of anything to frame, then frame the wall!  Of course, you must have the right wall for that. I don’t recommend placing frames onto a dirty, scratched up wall! Da!

classiclyamber.com

“Indeed, Allah is over all things competent.” Al-Baqarah [20] – Qur’an. ان الله على كل شيء قدير

Aren’t these amazing?

I have to learn how to create such art! Anyone out there willing to give lessons?

……. proponents of color psychology believe that the colors you use to decorate your home can have a profound effect on the emotional well-being of you and your family.”

Color psychology of White

 Traditional Home

Houzz 

Houzz 

Better Homes and Gardens 

Houzz 

Elle Decor

Apartment Modern

HGTV

Elle Decor 

Better Homes and Gardens

decor pad

Elle Decor

Houzz

Houzz

Architectural Digest

Decor Pad 

Decor Pad

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Decor Pad

dwelement

Interiorholic

Houzz

House to Home

 House Beautiful

Houzz 

 Houzz

Houzz

Better Homes and Garderns

A poem stenciled over the bed can be personalized and add character to the design.

Floating shelves would take advantage of vertical wall space in a small room.

House to Home

Joe Nye

Example: Pink & Yellow-Green 

Better Homes and Gardens

Judith Balis Interiors

House Beautiful

 House Beautiful

Did you notice that I did not share any pink bedrooms? That was intentional.  We tend to associate pink with little girls bedrooms so I wanted to inspire you to use this youthful, and fun color throughout your home.

Now that you have an idea about pink and how it matches with other colors, how would you use it in your home? Which room would you apply it to? Which shade of pink is more appealing to you?

• I prepared a vinyl stencil of the calligraphy and covered it with transfer tape.
• Next, to make sure that my art is placed exactly in the center of the mirror, I measured the art’s width and length, then marked the halfway point with painter’s tape. Next, I measured the mirror’s width and length, marked the halfway points, then matched them with the ones on the art. This video from Paper pastime gave me helpful tips on how to do that.

• Once the art was in place, I removed the transfer tape

• Now comes the fun part…I applied a thick coat of etching cream to the stencil. Important Note: wear gloves and protect the area around you from any spills. This thing burns anything it comes in contact with).

• After 20 minutes {the instructions say 5 minutes, but I did not want to risk it…just in case 5 minutes would not be enough!}, I washed the etching cream off with water.

A close up…..

I love it!! Don’t you?

This mirror will be part of a collage of frames at my husband’s office at work . It is my unique twist on the traditional desk nameplate.

I would love to hear your thoughts about this project. Please share in the comments below

Sunset 

Decoist

Interior Design Tutor

Martha Stewart

Eddie Williams

Creative Home Decorating

Martha Stewart 

Bright Bazarr

Houzz.com 

Color In Design

Better Homes and Gardens

Exploring Islamic Interior design

Modern Arabic Style Design Ideas

 The Exciting Art of Islamic Mosaics 

Walk-in Closet Design Ideas

Islamic Pattern Inspirations for Your Home

My Front Door Side Windows Etched With Islamic Pattern

Hurricane Candle Holders Etched With Islamic Calligraphy

Pantry Transformation-Allover Stencil Design

End table with an exotic flare

 One Creative Collection Of Toss Pillows

 check out my Home Projects category to see more of my work

At Home In Tuscany

Your Decorating Hotline 

Harvest

Better homes and Gardens

House and Home

Real Simple 

Desire to Decorate

Elle Decor 

Color in Design

HGTV 

Elle Decor

Elle Decor 

Elle Decor

Houzz.com

Better Homes and Gardens

Interior Fans

Tobi Fairley 

Better Homes and Gardens

Burnham Design

Style At Home -Jonathan Adler Bedroom

Houzz.com

Better Homes and Gardens

Thanksgiving Day is an American holiday that is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November. It began with the early pilgrims sharing their harvest with the local tribe. Although Thanksgiving Day had its roots in religion, through the years, it became a tradition of family gathering over a special feast and giving thanks. A classic Thanksgiving menu consists of Turkey, stuffing, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. For more on the history and tradition of Thanksgiving day click here.

As a muslim who is hosting Thanksgiving dinner, here is my centerpiece …….with an Islamic flair.

Happy Thanksgiving

• Using the Sillouette, I traced the calligraphy and cut it onto vinyl. 
• I weeded the letters to create a stencil 
• Transferred the stencil onto transfer paper.  I used a credit card to eliminate bubbles.
• Attached the vinyl stencil onto the glass 
• Removed the transfer paper to expose the stencil
• I  then mixed Martha Stewart Frosted etching medium with FolkArt acrylic paint in Yellow Ochre to give my design a color. 
• I dabbed the paint using a stencil brush then waited 15 minutes for it to dry. 
• Carefully peeled off the vinyl 
• All Done!! 

• Slows metabolism, lowers blood pressure and body temperature. Therefore, it is described as tranquil, relaxing, and restful.
• Known as the color of the intellect because it helps in concentration and communication.
• Suppresses the appetite.
• Evokes feelings of safety, authority, and trust.
• Too much blue can be depressing. Hence the term: feeling “blue”

My trip to Amman

Islamic arts and architecture

IslamiCity

My Marrakesh

Inspire Bohemia

Ada and Darcy

Claudio Modola

Flickr Hive Mind

Houzz

I love the dramatic look of arches! Unfortunately, I need major renovation to be able to add one to the architecture of my home. However, there are less expensive options out there to incorporate arches in our homes. Here are some ideas to inspire you……

John Robshaw Textiles

John Robshaw Textiles

One Kings Lane