The Quaint Cottage

New Entertainment Center

2012-10-15T11:24:00.001-05:00

I had a small village of components living around my television in the family room. DVR, DVD, Playstation, Xbox, Large Speakers, small speakers, DVDs, Video Game & Controllers. Sound familiar?

I spent quite of bit of time searching for the perfect piece of furniture (either to replicate or purchase). Guess what? It didn't exist. Apparently, you need to purchase a four foot length console for the massive televisions and all the equipment and just make do. Some of the "larger" sized units were around $500 and still not what I needed and made of MDF. Yes, some of them have the huge wall towers to go over the television. However, I have tons of windows and didn't like the look of a wall of stuff.

Here is my solution. Unfortunately, this photo was take with the iphone last night when it was dark, so you will need to check back with the plans and the "good" photos soon. This will give you an idea of what is coming.

I know this picture is horrible. I will hurry and add a better one this week.

This one is a bit better, but still with the iphone

For comparison purposes, this is a 46" television (which the hubby claims is now too small - Ha!).

Top row holds the DVD, DVR, Playstation & Xbox

Center row holds the smaller front speaker and has room for decor.

Center bottom houses the large speaker (hidden) and four rows of DVDs.

The two end spots are to hole large wicker baskets to hold video games and equipment.

No more clutter!

Here is what I had before. Looks kind of wimpy compared to the new one.

Here are a couple of the build: I used Purebond plywood

I am so pleased with how it turned out. I will share plans for anyone needing ideas for their own build. Also, I will have more projects starting soon for the family room (adding wall planks and building a new coffee table to hide more DVDs). I'm beginning to think I have too many DVDs and need to get rid of some.

Karen :)

New Project in Progress

2012-09-05T08:46:00.000-05:00

Did you miss me? I didn't fall off the face of the earth. I spent the last month or more dealing with horrible headaches and doctor visits. Anyway, long story short...I'm not dying. After all the tests, the doctor couldn't figure out what was wrong. I decided to go to a chiropractor before moving on to the neurologist. And guess what? Five minutes after seeing the chiropractor I felt A-MAZ-ING. He said I had these huge knots in my neck and shoulders which connect to the muscles in my head (either stress or poor posture, probably both in my case). Obviously, the doctor didn't test for knots, so he missed it.

Anyway, I'm so glad you are still with me after my absence. And now I'm back to doing what I love - building!

Here is the project I am now working on for the family room. It is an entertainment center.

Below is the current console table I am using for an entertainment center. The bad thing about furniture placement in most of my house is the number of windows. This wall (only wall in the family room besides the bay window wall) has two large windows, so to find something perfect was impossible. I needed a space for a DVD player, X-box, PS3, and cable, plus the huge speakers and DVDs. As you can see, it didn't all fit. The new piece will have room to grow.

If you read the previous post about the changes to the family room, you know I'm trying to get away from the brown/beige/blah look.

Even with trying to get away from boring brown, I still bought the Minwax Coffee stain (below). And then thinking about the grey console table I built for behind the couch (two photos down), I also bought the Minwax Charcoal Grey stain. Now I need to use a couple of sample pieces and figure out how I'm going to stain it. The Purebond plywood looks a bit too pretty to cover up with paint.

Console Table/Desk

Hopefully, I will have a color selected today or tomorrow and be able to show you.

Stay tuned,

Karen :)

DIY Console Desk (Door Top)

2012-07-24T08:36:00.002-05:00

On a mini makeover of my family room, I really needed a larger desk for the kids for homework and laptops. The old desk only sat one, so in order to remove some fighting over the spot I built a larger table. This table can seat 3 children if they behave and stay in their area. I would only recommend 2. Hahaha!

If you remember back to the time I made the vanity base, I stated I had left over cedar 4"x4" that I would use for a later project.

Here is that later project and how I used it.

I grabbed 4 2"x4", 1 1"x4" and a hollow core door (24"x80"). Since I already had the 4"x4" posts, this project only cost about $30. However, if you don't want to use 4"x4" pieces you can use 2"x4" doubled (like the inspiration project from Ana White).

Here is the cut list:

Below is how the 2 2"x4" pieces stack with the 1"x4". The bottom 2"x4" is a straight cut, the one on top is mitered on the ends at 45 degrees and the top 1"x4" is cut to length for the inside miter cut.

To put together, screw and nail the 1"x4" to the 4"x4" on both ends and work your way out until you have the last 2"x4" in place. I used 2 screws on each board and rotated the spots to sink into the piece below. I also added nailed to mine to add strength.

Here is how the finished leg looks.

Then you will need to cut a center support to attach the two legs. I used the Kreg to screw into the legs from the center support.

And to add to the support, I included "L" brackets on the legs (top and bottom). It may be over kill, but necessary for my kids.

I used a mixture of products to finish the look. I wanted weathered and rustic, but not brown. I love how the finish turned out.

Here is a better look at the finish.

This is the coolest design for legs for a desktop. I love how it turned out.

Next up for the mini-makeover is a new entertainment center.

Stay tuned! If you aren't following on Facebook, Email, Pinterest, or Twitter - Please join me!!

Karen :)

Linked to:

Tip Junkie, Primitive and Proper, The 36th Avenue, The Shabby Creek Cottage

Cozy Additions to the Family Room

2012-07-11T17:12:00.000-05:00

Comfy, cozy additions to the family room.

New homemade furry and knitted pillows with the Ikea Pillow and throw.

Photo Bomber - Max the Morkie

Well, I jumped into the family room(taking a break from finishing the half bath-no judgments please) to do a few things to make the room more inviting during the summer while we lounged inside watching movies and avoiding the heat.

Last week, I posted on Facebook that I found a new rug on Overstock.com for a steal at $148 for an 8x11. I jumped on it even though I wasn't a huge fan of the chevon pattern. My goal was to add a bit more color and this did not have brown or beige, so it was actually perfect.

It was to replace the jute rug (below) that my family hated. If you notice in this picture, the theme of the room was The World of Blah Beige and Brown.

Last night I made two new pillow covers for the sectional. One furry, one knitted.

I found the furry fabric on ebay and I used a soft baby chenille yarn for the knitted one.

Here is the furry one, which Max the Morkie actually hates. He barked at it for the first five minutes it was on the couch. Maybe it reminded him of his father or he thought it was his competition.

Here is the knitted one. It would be much easier to make with a sweater from Goodwill, but I couldn't find one I liked with soft material.

Here are two thoughts for a new ceiling fan, both from Lowes - Allen Roth. I think the second one is more casual, which is a better fit for my house.

I swapped out the dark brown curtains with the ones from the front living room. Free! And I am loving how light and bright the room looks with the change. Here are a few before and after with the lighter curtains. The room actually looks much bigger now.

I need to reupholster the ottoman, but I will be repainting the walls and covering the popcorn ceiling too! (Last room with popcorn on this level)

I plan to do a bit of work in the half bath to finish it up this weekend. I just hate the small finishing touches that seem so tedious, don't you?

See you soon! Karen :)

Linked to:

Liz Marie Blog, Thirty Handmade Days

Back Home from Vacation

2012-06-29T11:21:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in a few previous posts, my family and I spent some time at the beach this month. The weather was perfect the entire trip - we were very lucky. I constantly had my Kindle in my hand and read over ten books when I wasn't swimming and hiding from the sunball in the sky. We used three or four bottles of SPF 50 & 80 and happy to report no major sunburns. I can't say I'm happy it's over, but I was glad I missed TS Debby by a good 12 hours.

Side note tip for taking your iphone or kindle to the pool or beach - use the snack size ziploc bags for your phone and a larger size bag for your kindle. You won't have to worry about dripping water onto the screens or the sea spray/sand from the ocean. It worked perfectly for me.

Now that I'm back and trying to get back in the swing of things with the blog, I thought I'd share some of my vacation pics.

Instead of just posting about it, I'd thought I'd add a feature on the blog to highlight anytime I have a fun picture to share with you. <insert drum roll here>

I added Instagram picture feeds!

In the picture below, you will notice I added the "Quaint Cottage" instagram feed on the top right of the blog page. The Quaint Cottage instagram usually just focuses on all things to do with projects or adventures at the hardware store. So, if it wasn't worthy of an entire blog post (because I don't normally just post things just for a single picture), you can find it here.

I also added my personal Instagram feed for anyone who wants to take a peek into my NON-blog world. Again, I usually don't post things on the blog in reference to my own life or family just for the fact I started this blog as one to catalog my DIY projects.

Although my life is one major DIY project all by itself if you ask me.

Now that I've officially announced my return from vacation, I guess I need to get hopping on finishing some of my projects in the half bath and start a new mess in a new room.

I missed y'all!

Is anyone heading out on their vacation soon or just return?

Did you chose to go to the beach or pick something else?

More to come soon. Stay tuned.

Karen

Half bath Bookshelf - Installed

2012-06-11T07:49:00.001-05:00

Last week I posted on facebook and twitter a picture of the bookshelf I was working on to install in the half bath. Part of the post was just me whining about painint it because I do that.

Well, I broke down and bought a paint gun....and I didn't use it!! What?!

I read the directions and it said to use when temperatures were between 45-90 degrees. Working in the garage, the temps get much hotter than 90 degrees when the regular temperature is 90, so I didn't use it.

After I started priming this piece, I realized I didn't have enough anyway. As you will see in the bottom photo, I made it about seven feet up and ran out.

So now in addition to finishing the priming and caulking, I need to paint it. But, with the help of the hubby I was able to squeeze this huge thing into the small half bath and install it. Then I added a little cubbie up top to give it more of a built in look.

I just threw some goodies on the shelf for now to see how it would work.

Almost finished with the room.

Have a great week!

Karen

Stacked Baseboards

2012-06-03T09:13:00.000-05:00

As I try to waste time this morning to avoid going in the garage to build the bookcase for the half bath, I'd thought I'd answer one of the emails I received from a reader.

I've lived in this house for over ten years. According to my master plan when I moved in, I should have completely been finished with all my remodel projects by now....finished the basement and possibly have an in-ground pool. However, when I tend to remodel over and over until I think I've got it right things take a bit longer than I plan. The only thing I have going for me is my overwhelming need to keep the structure as classic as I can.

By classic, I'm referring to the oak wood floors, trims & molding, windows, doors, etc. The "structure" things you shouldn't really need to change when you remodel a room around a new comforter you purchase. Classic white trim and oak wood floors (in my eyes and heart) will always be in style.

A reader spotted these baseboards in a photo of an end table I did last year.

Hallway to family room from front door

When I started installing the 2000+/- square feet of wood floors about three or four years into living here, I was sitting on the couch with a Pottery Barn catalog on my lap. I don't have it anymore or I'd show you the picture of the inspiration. While flipping through it I saw one of their beautiful pieces of furniture, but that isn't what caught my eye. It was the stacked baseboard behind it. I had to have sat there for an hour trying to figure out how to recreate those same baseboards. But the thing that kept halting me was the fact their baseboards looked like a 1x12 board routed with beautiful grooves to create a piece of art.

Then, I set down the catalog and headed to my hardware store for therapy (Yes, I like to hang out in the lumber section to clear my head. Some girls shoe shop, I buy lumber. Don't judge). I started picking up pieces of trim molding and inspecting them. I brought home about five different pieces and began to create.

Hallway

But, when the dust settled, this is what I ended up doing.

1 - Top piece 1 1/4" Picture molding

2 - Middle piece 1" framed rope molding

3 - 5" baseboard (which I'm certain you could create with two separate pieces)

Unfortunately, it was BB (before blog) so I don't remember item numbers, prices, etc. But, if you have read this blog before you know I'm all about creating something special on a very thrifty budget. I wouldn't have bought the high end $5 a linear foot stuff. When I win the lottery (because I will someday, I just know it) I will probably still have the same need to recreate things on a budget I will just have way more time to do it.

I measured 11.5" up from the floor (same as a 1x12" piece of lumber) marked around the room with my tape measure and level and installed the picture molding. Then I marked 8" up and repeated the process with the framed rope pieces. Then I installed the baseboards. I don't think it matters if you start at the top or the bottom.

Then, caulk, prime and paint. I do remember the day I painted mine I had the Cardinal v Brewer game on in the background. It was hard to pay attention to cutting in with the distraction.

Front Living Room

I still have some requests to see the kitchen (which was also a total gut before the blog). I haven't forgotten.

Have a great day!!!

Karen

Linked to:

DIY Showoff, Home Stories A to Z, Not just a housewife, Tip Junkie

Thrifty Decor Chick, The 36th Avenue, The Shabby Creek Cottage

Food DIY - Fruit Roll Ups

2012-06-01T21:13:00.000-05:00

Do you (or your kids) love those really sweet fruit roll up treats? Do you feel like you need a trip to the dentist immediately after eating one? I do! That's why we only buy them from the store once or twice a year. I'd rather the kids (and myself) eat "junk food" that isn't going to rot the teeth.

I'm not saying this because I'm a strict, health-food type of person. Don't get me wrong. I'm the biggest fan of salty chips and buttered popcorn on the planet, possibly the universe. But...if I can substitute healthy options into my diet without upsetting the mindset I'm still having a yummy snack, it's a win-win.

After I posted about the new dehydrator I purchased and the turkey jerky snacks I made, I started to make a list of other goodies I wanted to try.

We have a road trip coming up in a few weeks from Saint Louis to Destin and back. If you are like me on a road trip, it means anything you find at a gas station or fast food stop along the highway is fair game in your diet. It's vacation right? But, I'd love to have healthy snacks for us to have on hand in the car.

In addition to the jerky, apple chips and banana chips, tonight I'm testing out fruit roll ups. They are also referred to as "Fruit Leathers" online. So if you are hunting recipes, keep that in mind.

The formula seems to be pretty simple -
liquid fruit (apple sauce) + fruit of your favorite flavor + sweetner/flavor

Some of the recipes I found say to just use apple sauce and flavored syrup or juice. But, if I'm making them why not make the fruit mixture and use all natural ingredients?

With me so far?

List of items I used -

6-7 Granny Smith Apples
1/2-1 cup of sugar (or sugar substitute)
1 quart Fresh Strawberries
3 Tablespoons Orange Juice
Parchment Paper (Cling Wrap could work too)

4 Qt Sauce Pan
Rubber Spatula
Strainer
Knife, Cutting Board
Blender
Bowl
Dehydrator

Here is how I made my roll ups.

6-7 granny smith apples, peeled and chopped, mixed in a sauce pan with a half cup of sugar and a splash of OJ. I let them begin to simmer as I chopped a quart of fresh strawberries. I added those to the simmering apples and more sugar until I reached the desired flavor. On mine I actually tried half regular sugar and half Splenda to help reduce calories. I tried to make an apple pie once with Splenda and no sugar and it turned out dry, so I didn't go full Splenda on this for that reason.

Once the fruits have become mushy and they begin to break easily, turn off stove and tranfser a few cups at a time into a blender. Puree and pour through a strainer (if you are using pulpy or seeded fruits) into a large bowl.

When you have strained the entire batch (it should be the thickness of a smoothie, just not runny), prepare parchment paper rectangles with a lip around all four edges. Pay special attention to the corners to avoid any spills if you overfill. Ladle enough of your strained puree into the paper structures to coat the bottom about 1/8". Remember, the dehydrator will reduce the content so try to keep them even to make them look consistent.

Set in the dehydrator on the "Fruit" setting. On mine (750watt) the setting was about 135F/57C. Depending on the strength of your dehydrator, you should have a finished fruit snack in about 3-5 hours. I usually check them every hour.

Enjoy! Next week I'm planning on testing granola bars. Yummy!!

Have a great weekend everyone.

Karen :)

Linked to:

Tatertots & Jello, Too-much-time.com, Positively Splendid, Home Stories A to Z

Not just a housewife, Tip Junkie, Thrifty Decor Chick, The 36th Avenue

The Shabby Creek Cottage

The day after updates:

On a couple of the sheets, it was thicker than a regular roll up so it did take longer than the original 3-5 hours (more like 10-12). The picture below shows how thick that piece was (about twice the thickness of normal).

Be warned. As a kid, I probably won't have liked them if I saw the real bits of strawberry fruit in the roll up (like below). If you or your kids are picky, you can try a better strainer. However, those little strawberry bits didn't change the texture of the snack (even on the ones that were the appropriate thickness), just the fact you could see it was made with real fruit. I know some kids may consider this a deal breaker.

Roll the paper, cut into strips and put into baggies. Use a sharp knife, press down on the line and just push through the whole roll. Obviously, we had to test a few while packaging. I would say a batch this size would have made about 30-36 roll ups if I would have keep them a consistent thickness. Oh well. I'm not opposed to eating my mistakes.

DIY Vanity Sink Base

2012-05-28T19:57:00.000-05:00

When I started planning my mini half bath make over, I came up with this inspiration board.

As you can see, I installed the white plank wall and ceiling. I added the barn light. And painted the walls the Light French Gray. Here is how far this room has come so far.

Now, I needed a vanity upon which to set the white square sink. I spotted this sink/vanity combe at Pottery Barn and thought it was beautiful. However, it was way out of my budget. Remember, this project began with just the need to repaint the room.

Here is a picture of the inspiration piece:

Pottery Barn Vanity

Here is a view of the sink top (which I found at Overstock.com). I found the cute little soap pump at Target and the faucet at Lowes.

Here is how I built the base:

I used cedar to make the legs and the cross supports, cedar fence post tops for the feet and 1x11.5 utility shelving (which was more rustic, cheaper and aged looking than the pine or white wood).

I would suggest (if you don't mind the reduced height) to cut the 8' cedar 4x4 into 4 equal pieces for the legs to save $$$. I had to cut 3 legs on one 8' piece and the 4th on another. I will use the extra wood for another project, but I thought of it after I already made my cuts. You can make up the difference with taller feet or chunkier top.

Cut List -

4 - 4x4 26" (legs) may need to adjust for the sink height

4 4" feet

6 - 2x2 13" (sides)

2 - 1x12 13" (sides)

5 - 2x2 21" (front and back)

1 - 1x12 21" (front)

2 - 1x12 16" (bottom shelf)

1 - 2x2 16" (bottom shelf center)

2 - 1x12 30" (top)

First, I assembled the two sides by attaching the pieces and face to the legs.

After the two sides were built, I attached the front three support pieces and the two back supports.

Attach the top pieces to the frame of the base with "L" brackets. Once you find the position you like for the sink, mark the openings for the drain and the supply lines.

Attach feet and front piece. I made a small "U" shaped drawer to allow a spot for the drain.

The overall height for the sink base is 30.75" and with the sink it is about 36". Make necessary adjustments depending on your sink and the height you require.

Faucet-$80

Sink & Drain - $150

Wood-$70

I still need to build the small bookcase for the corner of the room and refashion the mirror that used to hang in the room. Also, I still want to find a new (old) door.

Have a great week!!!

Karen :)

Linked to:

Beneath My Heart, Sew Woodsy, My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia
Not Just a Housewife, Tip Junkie, Ginger Snap Crafts
Delightful Order, The 36th Avenue, The Shabby Creek Cottage
Miss Mustardseed, Chic on a Shoestring Decorating, Remodelaholic

Tatertots & Jello, Too-much-time.com, Positively Splendid

DIY Showoff, Home Stories A to Z, Thrifty Decor Chick

I {heart} my new food dehydrator!

2012-05-23T10:14:00.000-05:00

Off the subject of the half bath for a moment.... Here is a random post.

I've recently discovered the art of dehydrating food. Okay, it may not be an art, but it's pretty cool. I've only made jerky, apple chips and banana chips, but I am going to test fruit roll ups this weekend. I love this little machine!!!!

The fruit obviously takes much longer than the jerky because of the liquid content, but the jerky is ready to go in about 4 hours. All you do is mix the seasoning with the meat and squeeze through the gun. How easy is that? I'm planning on making a large batch of goodies for our upcoming road trip to the beach.

My co-worker also decided to buy one and she has made her own spicy red pepper seasoning.

Why did it take me so long to test one of these wonderful machines? My whole family loves eating jerky, but it is so expensive and packed full of preservatives. Now we make our own with the jerky gun (yes, there is such a thing) and jerky seasoning (which I made have to make my own some day).

I've even found dog treat recipes for the dehydrator! Actually, I may need to make Max some of those because right now when he smells the jerky he barks at me to give him some.

Do you have a dehydrator? What type of stuff do you make with yours?

I'm adding the links to the items I purchased if you are curious. This isn't a sponsored ad post, just sharing what I found. :)

Karen

Amazon

I Can See the Finish Line

2012-05-21T21:41:00.000-05:00

Does anyone else get so involved with a project in your house you ignore the laundry and start naming your dust bunnies and passing them off as pets? Well, I do!

My house is in complete chaos right now because the kids brought home all their school projects, papers, supplies and just threw them where they found room.

Instead of doing something about the mess, I decided to work in the half bath tonight after work.

Now, all of the painting is complete!!!! Yippeeeee!!!!

This weekend I painted the white paneling (which I had primed last weekend).

And tonight I painted the walls. As much as I truly loathe painting, I do love the finished product. Plus, my arms and legs get a bit of a workout so I can't complain.

Also, over the weekend I started the vanity project. Here is a sneak peek at what I'm making.

I stained it, but I'm thinking it is a bit darker than I wanted. I'll see what it looks like in the room before I decide if I need to make any changes.

If anyone will be interested, I'll post some plans of the vanity.

Lucky for me, I had plenty of paint left over from the laundry room remodel to use in the half bath.

I need to finish the sink this week since I'm having guests for a BBQ this weekend.

Wish me luck.

Karen :)

Half Bath Update

2012-05-14T09:22:00.001-05:00

Well, two weeks of life getting in the way of the home improvement projects really sets me back.

First, the Saint Louis area was hit with a couple of rounds of hail storms. We were very lucky and didn't get the golf ball + sized hail, but we still had some damage to our roof. We will be getting a new roof next week courtesy of our insurance company. Yay!

Then, our condensing unit and a-coil died just when the temperatures were a steady 90 degrees. It doesn't bother me too much, but my children claimed they could possibly die from the heat. Poor babies! Needless to say, they spent a lot of time in the sprinkler and stationed in front of the fans in the house. The day we had the new one installed the temperatures returned to a more seasonable 72 degrees.

Last weekend, we were able to witness a gorgeous Super Moon. Sadly, I only had my iphone handy to snap a photo, but hopefully you were able to witness it in person.

Since the house was a sauna for about a week, I couldn't work on the half bath. 1) Couldn't install the rest of the paneling when the wood is swollen from the humidty. 2) Couldn't paint the already installed paneling because it never would have dried.

Finally, this weekend I jumped back into the project.

Here is the little room with the completed primed paneling.

Before:

Progress:

Primed:

Now you see the popcorn, now you don't :)

I promised the hubs I would build the vanity and install the sink next weekend. Stay tuned to see what I make. Have a great week!

Karen

Kreg Winner

2012-05-01T08:40:00.000-05:00

I had so much fun getting to check out some of your blogs (that were linked to the giveaway). Thank you to all who joined in on the fun.

Now, on to the winner.

Last night after I closed the comments, I ran a random number from all the entries.

And the winner is... Kat from Planetpowers.

Kat, please email me (kalynz305@hotmail.com) your address so I can get your Kreg to you.

Thank you to all that entered!!!!

If you didn't win the Kreg, don't worry! I will have another giveaway coming shortly.

Congrats to Kat!!!

Have a great day.

Karen

Half Bath Plank Wall

2012-04-29T21:35:00.001-05:00

Today I finished the plank wall in the half bath, installed a new light and connected the new ceiling light. I really love how it turned out so far.

Here are a few pictures of the starting point for this room:

Then I ripped holes in the wall and ceiling to run the new lighting. Remember that fun mess?

I removed the old mirror and vanity...Yes, the builder didn't build that wall straight. So, what did they do to make the original vanity flush to the wall? Cut a hole for it. I found that a few years ago when I changed the vanity and luckily, the new one covered their mess.

Then, I began running rows of the planking. I used the individual unpainted pieces this time and I LOVE THEM!!! I totally ditched my original plan for the ceiling to use the plank looking paneling like I did in the laundry room/pantry when I saw how amazing this wall looked when it was finished.

Look at the wall now. No more holes. Now you see them, now you don't.

And here is that new barn light I found at Lowe's for $25. What a steal.

And here is a picture of both new lights and they work.

Remember the popcorn ceiling?

It will soon be a memory. Now I just need to buy a couple more packs of the planks to finish the ceiling this week and trim it out.

I'll be finishing up the ceiling, prepping and priming the wood this week. Then working on the new vanity I'm building and bookshelf for the corner.

Have a great week! I'll be posting the Kreg winner on Tuesday and announcing a new giveaway at the end of the week.

Karen

Bookcase Makeover Idea

2012-04-26T11:53:00.001-05:00

Ballard Design

I just saw the most beautiful bookshelf for a home office on Ballard Design's facebook page today and it got me rethinking my quick decision to sell/donate my current space holder bookshelf unit.

When I previously posted about setting up my dining room with furniture I found around the house, I quickly dismissed this HUUUUUGE bookcase as a "must get rid of and make a new piece" item.

I thought about grabbing chalkpaint and adding different paneling for the backs...but I also thought it was just too big so this space. Maybe it isn't the fact that it is too big, maybe the large wall of black color is making it seem like it takes over the space.

I'm thinking if I remove those two large doors and add shelves (it is currently open space for a television), paint the entire cabinet and add a different back panel, it just may work.

I would love to revamp those lower doors so I can keep my sewing machines tucked away, but I think removing them will open the space more. Plus, I can always store them in the buffet (when I find the perfect one).

What would you do?

I welcome your feedback.

Karen

Half Bath Inspiration Board

2012-04-25T22:24:00.000-05:00

This is a quick post to show the direction I'm heading with my current project.

Presenting.....my inspiration for the little half bath remodel.

Currently, the room is a party of blah beiges - beige floor and beige walls & ceiling...Do you hear the big YAWN?!

I'm hoping by adding the overhead light, along with the crisp white bookshelf and white plank wall & ceiling it will brighten the room a bit.

I'll be building the small bookcase and the rustic vanity to save money and get the exact size I need, but I'm still on the lookout for a vintage door. I'll head to the Habitat Restore next weekend if I can't find one on Craiglist before then.

For now, I'm waiting for the planks adjust to the house temps/humidity and for the sink to arrive from Overstock. While I wait, I'll draw up the plans for the two items I need to build and create a frame to reuse the current oval shaped mirror.

Stay with me. Tons of good stuff to come.

Link to Pinterest Board

Karen

New Pages Added

2012-04-24T10:52:00.002-05:00

You may have noticed how difficult it has been to search for your favorite DIY projects on the blog since it is growing. I even find it challenging to find a previous post and I made them.

Frustrating times have come to an end my friends.

I've listened to your requests and added NEW, EASY to navigate pages with photos of all of the projects at a glance. I'm even slowly adding a "House Tour". I hope to add the BB (before blog) kitchen to the house tour soon.

I still need to line up the photos on these new pages and make them look neat and orderly (if there was a power tool for blogging, I'd be a professional). But, look how easy it is to find a project and click the link under the photo.

Hopefully, you will find a project you haven't seen yet now that you can see them all at a glance.

Karen

Getting aQUAINTed Link Party and Kreg Giveaway

2012-04-19T18:20:00.000-05:00

The Quaint Cottage celebrated a couple of big milestones this month with followers on facebook and Blogger. But, after nine months of building, sweating and painting DIY projects around here...the blog hit 200,000 page views today. A lovely celebration after the messy project I started yesterday in the bathroom.

Woop! Woop!

Oh, I know y'all don't always feel like leaving me comments or feedback. I'm cool with it. We are casual enough around here we usually have paint on our clothes, right? I know you are there reading along with me, but I'd love to get to know you better. I'm kind of bad about leaving comments too, but I'm turning over a new leaf. I'm going to try to remember to reach out and give more back pats and thumbs ups in a virtual sense.

To celebrate the 200,000th page view today, I'm throwing a little informal link party to get aQUAINTed (get it?) with you, the best readers ever.

If you already follow along with the DIY projects here on The Quaint Cottage, you know ~~many~~ most of my projects involve some kind of wood project and one of these...(insert choir singers - ahhhHHH!). Aka the best little invention ever! Kreg. The best blue accessory for a girl like me, apart from the pencil sticking out of my sawdust covered ponytail.

So, I thought I'd do a little giveaway for one lucky reader to win this mini Kreg set as a way to share the love and give back to the awesome readers who follow along with my dusty, odd, messy and sometimes awesome projects.

Also, as I blog my way to the one year milestone, I'm planning more giveaway parties for May, June and July. If you have ideas for those giveaways, leave a comment on facebook, tweet, email or any of the other communication devices.

You don't have to have a blog to play along with the giveaway, but I'm adding a link below to add any project or simply a link to your main blog so I can follow you back (and check out what you guys are up to in your own homes) and give you a platform to highlight yourself with the other readers of this blog. Trust me, this is a super informal thing. Link your favorite recipe post, your favorite DIY post or a post you did on a roadtrip while trying to determine the odd insect you found on your windshield...ANYTHING.

And I'm NOT asking you to link back to this blog, no blogging party police. I promise!!!
Just a get aQUAINTed party.

Link up and share your awesomeness with the world. Er, well, the 1,000 daily people who wander in from Pinterest and Google accidentally?

Now - on to the giveaway!

To enter:

1) Leave a comment below with what DIY project you would do first with the Kreg. See? Easy peasy!

2) Follow on Facebook, then leave another comment.

3) Follow on Twitter, then leave another comment.

4) Link up a project/blog link/whatever, then leave another comment.

If you already have a Kreg, please feel free to share this link party with your friends who could use one.

The link party closes on April 30, 2012. I'll close the comments at 7pm CST and generate one winner randomly the morning of May 1st.

I think I've covered everything.

Good luck!

Karen

Test Drive

2012-04-19T07:23:00.000-05:00

Remember a week or two ago when I decided I wanted to switch my dining room into an office/library?

Well, I decided to shop the furniture in my own house to temporarily set up the space as I wanted it. A test drive to see if it would work and if I liked it as an office. I must admit, even with it just set up as a temporary space, I LOVE IT! I love having a spot for my daughter to color and then put her supplies away in the cabinet. I love having a room where I can hide my sewing machines and fabrics and bring them out when I want to create. I love having a spot for my stuff.

It's a Woman Cave!

The dresser/buffet was the spot where I plan on having a credenza, so I didn't have to change that. I've been shopping on Craigslist every night for a buffet/credenza, but the prices are ridiculous. To those ladies who find garage sale, roadside rescues and Craigslist finds for under $100, I tip my hat to you! I'm going to have to build what I need.

I moved the dining room table against the wall as a place for the desk. Put a chair on either side of the desk. Obviously, this table is too big for a desk, but it will work for now.

I moved that huge black bookshelf unit into the room as a spaceholder for the future bookshelves/cabinets. It has been sitting in the front living room for about a year without a purpose. I thought about revamping the black bookshelf unit with chalkpaint and a barnwood look on the back, but it is just too deep for the space. I think I am going to need to list it on Craigslist.

I still need to finish the crown molding and repaint in a lighter color, but luckily I'll be able to shorten this light to use it during the changes until I find the awesome Orb Light.

So there you have it. I took a test drive with items I already had in my house and I liked it.

Stay tuned for posts this weekend on the half bath.

Karen

Swiss Cheese Anyone?

2012-04-18T18:13:00.000-05:00

This is a tale of my short trip into madness.

If you have ever tried to run electrical lines in the ceiling of the first story of a two story house, you will feel my pain.

When I ran them in my kitchen a couple of years ago, I don't think it was this challenging. Maybe it is like childbirth, you forget the pain when you see the finished result?

I set out with the goal of adding a bit of light to this small, one light fixture/no window 6'x6' half bath. (If you remember, the idea was just to freshen up the paint in this room, but I'm so past just a coat of paint now.)

This is the ceiling. Isn't that some pretty popcorn on the ceiling?

I know. Don't worry.

This is the second to last ceiling on the main level with popcorn I need to tackle - aka I will soon stop talking about it all the time and move on to another pet peeve.

Here is step one of the madness - make a few holes to run a line from the light fixture.

Easier said than done on this ceiling.

Double header, joist an inch inside from the header (fail on first ceiling hole)...ugh. I sent my co-worker a text asking if she had any ceiling art work I could add to just scrap the project.

No turning back now.

Next step - I press on to get access to the wall so I can drill through the header.

Note - I don't have fancy drill bits that all the cool electricians own. They probably have lasers and magic too, so I am a bit jealous of them.

Take a step back and figure out a game plan...What? Do you plan BEFORE you knock holes into walls. Geez, that sounds boring.

Game plan (with cool coach diagram):

Wire needs to go from point "A" to point "B", through two joists and then weave around a rogue air vent added by the builder ten years ago for the exact purpose of messing with me today. Those prankster HVAC guys. Haha!

So, instead of running to the hardware store to get the drill bits I need and spend $$$, I remembered I planned on adding paneling to the ceiling AND the back wall behind the toilet and sink....maybe I did plan it after all.

In honor of the Marvel comic books, I went Hulk on the drywall...

Well, if Hulk used a keyhole saw?

Then the final step of the day, thread the new electrical line. The fishing line (not the fancy name electrician's use) where you tape the line to the metal wire and fish it thru the holes didn't want to work either.

I am waiting until Saturday when I can devote the whole day to installing the paneling on the ceiling and the wall before I install the lights. I mean, that would just be silly if I didn't wait. Right?

You are welcome to set down your soda now and burst out laughing at my drywall. I did.

See you on Saturday.

Karen

Disclaimer - this is a blog of my projects, not an instructional how-to blog. Please use it for your entertainment and do not attempt to make this mess in your own home.

If you give Karen a Paintbrush....

2012-04-11T08:57:00.000-05:00

I either have some kind of ADD or maybe this is a better comparison -

"If you give Karen a Paintbrush"

While I was doing a bit of research for the dining room switch to a library, I realized my little half bath between the new laundry room and what will be the new office would stick out like a sore thumb if I didn't at least paint it.

But if you just try to freshen the half bath with paint, then you will need a new light fixture and mirror. And maybe some planks on the wall (and ceiling).

Hello beautiful inspiration photo.

Source

Then I found an affordable little light. We shall see if it will be big enough.

Lowes

Then there is the paneling I used to cover the popcorn in the laundry room.

Lowes

And then I saw this beautiful little bookshelf with beadboard from The Lettered Cottage. That would be perfect in the corner of the bathroom for towels and such.

The Lettered Cottage

Nothing is ever a simple little paint job with me. Does the same thing happen to you?

Since at this point I'm not replacing the vanity or toilet, I would like to think this will only be a weekend project. But I'm really loving the square white sink on top of a wood counter.

Karen

Road Block on Dining Room

2012-04-09T08:55:00.000-05:00

Last week, I made a little inspiration board for my new dining room that will be converted into a library/office.

On the board, there were these two tall, rustic, glass door bookcases that I thought set the mood for the whole room.

Here is a closer look.

Then I found out where these bookcases could be purchased and knew I couldn't afford to buy one ($1800), let alone two. So out of my budget. Big old Sad Face everyone :(:(:(

Although, now a $600 Orb Light I saw on Restoration Hardware doesn't sound so expensive.

Of course, then I set to pricing the hardware (Cremone Bolts) so I could replicate my own bookcases. Ouch!!! Those bolt prices ($175 and up for one) could explain the price of the bookcases.

Source - $420 bolts

Long story short - While I was searching for affordable Cremore Bolts, I think I found a way to recreate these cabinets, with a similar look for a fraction of the $175+++ bolts.

I see a tutorial in the works for some rustic bookcases, don't you?

Until then I just need to post some of my current furniture on Craigslist to make room for the new stuff.

Karen :)

Inexpensive Window Hardware

2012-04-07T21:35:00.000-05:00

Today I did some simple curtains for the laundry room and hung them.

However, when I was shopping for curtain rods and hardware I was a bit shocked at the prices. For a small window like this one, it was going to cost anywhere from $50 on up for simple hardware ($20 for brackets and $30 for the rod).

As I was trying to play off the industrial metal backsplash, silver cabinet handles and the metal accents I put down the curtain hardware and decided to check out the plumbing section of the hardware store.

Until I found this...

It looks like curtain hardware to me. Here are the product packages for anyone who is interested. The flange and split ring hanger are in the plumbing section, the threaded rod is in the screws and bolts section.

Then add your favorite conduit or spray painted wood dowel.

They even have pipe end pieces to add for finials, but I wanted this simple look.

Here is my new $10 curtain rod, including the hardware.

The little clips were another $5.

What do you think? Would you use plumbing for your window hardware?

I like it so much I may use it in my upstairs hallway (spray painted oil rubbed bronze).

Karen :)

Laundry Room Panel Ceiling

2012-04-06T11:32:00.000-05:00

If you have read any of my previous posts about the ceilings in my house, you will know how the builder of my home used the popcorn texture on all the ceilings AND how much I hate said popcorn texture. Not only is it ugly, it makes the ceilings look much lower and sucks up all the light. But, if you have any in your house you already know.

However, instead of scraping the painted popcorn ceiling (which was a pain compared to unpainted popcorn) I decided to create a plank ceiling.

I priced the individual pieces, the ones that are primed and have the tongue and groove like flooring. They weren't too expensive, but I found this paneling (4x8 sheets) and it was about 1/3 the cost of the individual pieces.

Let me start by emphasizing the importance of marking your ceiling joists (on the wall so you don't lose them when you go to install). Unfortunately, it took me about a half hour to figure out my ceiling was running a different direction from the rest of the main level since the laundry room is a little bump out from the main structure. So, instead of 16" joists, I had 24" and they ran the length of the room. BOO!

I think that raised the difficulty level a bit, but I pressed on anyway with visions of smooth white paneling dancing in my head.

This is not a one man job. It is probably better with several people, but only two could fit in this small room.

I installed a little bit of help on the end where I was going to start with the nails. This little guy allowed me to use one hand to press the liquid nailed panel to the ceiling while nailing with the other hand (with hubs holding the other end to the ceiling).

Already I could see how much better it would be vs the popcorn. Ba Bye Popcorn!!!!

In addition to the nails along the joists, I installed 1x4 flat trim and the 1x2 against the wall. I helps hide the edges, adds support and it looks great.

Here is the last shot of the night. I decided I would save the other piece for the morning.

And I added a bit of boards along the blank wall...

The next morning, I finished the ceiling and toenailed the seams to make them a bit less obvious. I didn't want to run a piece of wood there to cover it. The above picture is before I added the extra nails along the seam. You can still see the seam in the right light after the paint and caulk, but it doesn't draw your eye as much as a piece of trim would do. Look at the very first picture of this post if you want to see the finished seam with the light.

Once all the panels and boards were installed, I grabbed the goodies to make it look good.

Wood filler for the MDF boards

Caulk for the ceiling nail holes, seams, baseboards, trim pieces, etc.

Primer (accidentally bought oil based...works better, but so smelly and bad clean up)

Paint

Sanding block

Tools to hammer any nails that aren't recessed

Drywall patch for previous nail holes and wall damage

Paint Supplies

AND....rubber gloves.

This isn't to protect a manicure or anything. I hate the way wood filler feels on my hands, so I use gloves.

Gloves for the caulk too? Yep. I use a cup of water to wet my finger and run it along the caulk. It makes it look perfect. If you haven't caulked before, it is easy to learn but it takes practice. Don't cut the tip too big, generally an 1/8th to 3/16th is enough.

Here is the trim after I caulked, filled, sanded, primed...it is a lot of work, but if you don't do these steps your paint job will not look as good as it could.

Then two coats of the white.

I let the white dry overnight before coming back to cut in and paint the walls. A) because I usually run into the wet paint and B) because your brush doesn't accidentally pull the white into it.

Or it gives you time for it to dry if you use painter's tape.

The color I used is Light French Gray from Behr (eggshell)

and Behr Pure Ultra White Semi-Gloss on the trim.

This is the last post for the Laundry Room Remodel. I hope you enjoyed following along with the project.

Have a wonderful Easter weekend!!!

Karen :)

New Project - Convert Unused Dining Space

2012-04-05T20:39:00.000-05:00

Now that the laundry room is organized and pretty, my mind started thinking of my next project.

Then, as I tripped over a basket of shoes one morning this week. It hit me (literally).

The dining room!

My question to you...Do you actually use your dining room more than once or twice a year?

I don't! My dining room is a room visitors see as they enter the house, but it sits unused, except for the kids bookbags and shoes. What a waste of a great space!!!

As of now, I'm on a mission to reclaim my space.

As I thought about it, I came up with this inspiration board to convert it into a library and home office.

I'd love to hear from you. Anyone actually change their dining room into a project room, office, library or other multi-use space? If you have a blog link you'd like to share, please leave it in the comments so I can check it out.

I'm off to check out pinterest for some ideas.

Karen :)