Here’s a look at what I have to work with…

Nevermind that the old awful blue siding is still there as that will be removed in due time.

mwahahaha.

Until then, I haven’t had exterior lighting on the front of my house for most of this year.

Why?

Well, first, my new garage has the wiring sticking out but waiting on me to install sconces.

However, I did buy the sconces months ago and thought I’d have time to redo the exterior this summer.

After spending four months on my backyard revival, I decide to wait until next year… or whenever I can get to painting and residing the exterior.

All that took much sweat equity, and you can see all my free tutorials, including build plans, in my project gallery.

LIGHT IT UP

After recently finishing (almost finishing – my furnace makeover awaits) my family room remodel, I need to tackle things that need done before the snow flies.

Like these dated sconces and my poky wires sticking out of my garage. It’d be nice to have lights since the days are getting shorter, right?

In my vlog below, I share all the details of the headache I found and what I did to remedy it.

AND… why in the world I had to tear into my interior wall. ugh.

Including these old work boxes (explanation in vlog below).

This project should have literally taken me a day, at best.

That, however, is never my lot in life. sigh…

Instead, I have to do correctly what someone should have done ages ago. Isn’t that always the case in homes?

So, if you recall, I tore down two ceilings in my kitchen and family room. When doing so, I finally found out what this second switch in my dining area was for… the front door sconces.

weird.

Quite possibly it could be in part to the fact that my entry used to be a porch.

To update, I disconnect that switch so I can have a switch to my staircase light – which I’ve also demoed and am in the process of finishing.

You can see the dreaded boob light nipple peeking down. It will be gone soon.

And, yes, I cut open my staircase walls. tsk.

Meanwhile, I have to somehow power those sconces since the old wiring is hiding up here.

While it rains, I take time to do many chores to hasten the job when sun shines again. Including painting these mount blocks to match my new siding.

LIGHTS AND MORE

Finally, after pausing for a week straight of rainstorms. I’m able to complete getting all the lights installed.

whew.

There were definitely bumps along the way as I had to pull down wire to reuse it.

And then I receive DIY Botox via my hammer kicking back at me.

I still have a goatee bruise to brag about – OUCH and OOOO UUUU CCCC HHHH.

But… the sconces are up and functional.

There’s still a bit of touchups to the mounts I’d like to do before I officially caulk and seal them off. But I can check this chore off my list.

Until I need to take the one set down to redo the front of the house.

Now, tell me if you’ve tackled an update to exterior lighting like this on your own home? Or better yet, would you tackle this?

Do pin and share to inspire others as well as save this for future use.

For fun, check out my other reclaimed antique clamp sconces I created that were featured on a popular Pickers show without credit to me. yeah… nice.

Before you go, be sure to stick it to the AI bots and sign up for my FREE newsletter. Until next time!

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Now that you’re inspired, let’s look at more DIY projects like how to update exterior lighting:

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There have been many changes in my life over the last year and yet another chapter has begun that means long days. So, you can imagine my delight when I come home and find a package… just for me.

Over my research the last few years on shoe brands and, ultimately, optimal chain health, I found several brands that are worth giving a closer look.

For reference, here are my past posts starting at the beginning:

• My Barefoot Journey Intro – see where I started and links to numerous resources
• FeelGrounds Shoes Review – my kids and I share our honest opinions about this brand
• Barefoot Movement – update on my journey as well as reviews of my current shoe stash

Now, before you read my review below, take a peek at my vlog review.

WHAT ARE BAREFOOT SHOES?

You might be thinking, “isn’t “barefoot shoes” and oxymoron term?

Maybe at first glance or thought.

However, the idea behind barefoot (or minimalist) shoes is to allow you to have a barefoot experience while offering protection, in some instances, and style as well.

If you want to make this switch for yourself, please note my first introductory post linked above for what to look for and how to prepare your body to make the transition.

When it comes to shoes, you want:

• wide, open toe box – so you can splay those tootsies
• zero drop (or at least as minimal as possible) – that means from heel to toe there is no change in rise because any difference in elevation affects your entire chain
• flexible sole – no rugged or rigid soles. That way your entire foot and ankle can function as it should

Let me introduce you to this new-to-me brand – Birchbury.

Honestly, in my research I mention above, this brand is recommended over and over again.

Why?

Because of the high-quality materials as well as the impeccable design.

To keep it real, Matt Tran, the designer and owner of Birchbury, reached out to me to see if I’d like to give his shoes a try.

Yes, please!

There were no strings attached, just the offer of shoes, an honest review, and, if I like, I can become an affiliate. (where I earn a percentage if someone should use my links to make a purchase)

Being true to myself and my brand I turn away products or companies that don’t resonate with my person and what I stand for.

COMFORT, FUNCTION & STYLE

I am delighted to say I highly recommend these shoes to you.

First, the materials are supreme. While I’m sharing with you the model, Carnforth, there are many styles of shoes available for work and leisure.

My choice was this boot because of the autumn season around the corner as well as the versatility.

As you can see in my vlog above that when I receive the box in the mail, I instantly put them on and find them perfect.

And I don’t say that lightly!

Perfect in the open toe box so I can splay, in the flexible sole (with option to remove the insert as I usually do), and the fit.

With this skinny-ankled, bigger-footed gal, I was cautious to think that they would fit straight out of the box.

TWO-WEEK TRIAL

Additionally. I didn’t just write this up after that initial experience. I’ve worn these and can honestly say there are a fast favorite to wear with any outfit.

As I mention in my vlog above, I want as much ground-feel as possible in my shoes and also prefer natural fibers. The elastic laces make it possible for my entire foot and ankle to function as it should. Though they do come with extra elastic laces and standard laces as well as heel grips, if needed.

While I chose this soft tan suede, this model also comes in two other suede colors as well as dark brown or black rugged leather. All are water resistant.

Oh, AND the interior is lined with a buttery-soft leather that makes it a supremely soft fit.

Did you notice the faux heel? If you desire the look of conventional without sacrificing function, this is ideal.

I’m NEVER going back to conventional shoes and consider yourself invited to join this amazing, healing ride.

Now it’s your turn!

Tell me which outfit with the Carnforth boot is your favorite?

Likewise, have you considered taking a good look at your foot and chain health? Ever tried a barefoot or minimalist shoe?

Let me hear your thoughts on my Birchbury shoes review down below as well as pin and share to inspire others to good health and style.

Before you go, be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter. Until next time!

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Want more barefoot goodness like this Birchbury shoes review? Check out these below:

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Now, as you know, and as I’ve demonstrated, free doesn’t really mean free (as in no work). But what good is getting exactly what you need and want without a little sweat equity, eh?

If you look closely, you see one door is missing glass, and one drawer is in need of repair.

But otherwise, this is a solid piece and is – first come, first served.

THE STORY

While working on my last post, my arched hollow core door tutorial, I had a buyer come to purchase an item from me. After the item sold, I hopped online to change the listing status.

While doing so, I had this free cabinet come into my feed.

I stopped in my scroll.

Unbelievable to me, it was still available after shortly being listed. I inquire and figure it’s already gone.

However, the sweet couple listing it replied about an hour later saying that the first one to respond to chat would get it.

double eep!!

After instantly texting back that I’m on my way, my daughter and I hustle over.

Much to my chagrin, I get there and IT’S TOO BIG for my car.

{{whomp, whomp}}

My daughter and I haul it back up the driveway and it is HEAVY.

Then, I have an idea.

I ask if it’s alright if I run home and grab my tools so I can take it apart to fit in my vehicle.

The owner, Miss M comes out and tells me that she has no problem with that, but I better be back quickly because another person already tried to take it before I got there and I got there in less than 10 minutes!

I remove the drawers, doors, and shelves to take with me while I run home.

Thankfully, my daughter, Miss E, agrees to this entire crazy journey.

In thirty minutes, I had that thing beat apart, loaded up, and back home.

How’s that for DIY?

mwahahahaha…

But maybe the jokes on me?

BUILD IT

Per my usual, my goal is to inspire you. Maybe you have that misfit piece that functions but needs an update.

Or maybe you need to find something to function in your home, like me.

For the record, I really wanted slim bookcases without doors. So… I’m curious if this will suit my needs as it seems deeper than I’d prefer and really don’t want to deal with glass doors. But… there’s plenty of space in it and I think I can make it my own.

First, I bring in the pieces inside because in my garage is a balmy 101° with 95% humidity. whew!

Since this was put together with staples, I have to pull all those out first. This piece is made of mostly fabricated wood but does have oak crosspieces as well as oak door frames.

Then, after a rough layout of all the pieces, I begin by assembling the bottom first. My vlog below shows this…fun… best.

Once the base is together, I stand it up to finish top portion.

As you can see in my vlog below, doing all this didn’t just pop together. haha.

My focus is to keep everything square because if I don’t, the drawers won’t fit and the doors won’t hang properly. Rolling in that drawer with ease made everything feel like it’s falling into place… literally.

My vlog below covers even more details of this whole story. View it below.

As you can see in the vlog, I make an executive decision to change the style with removing the crown molding.

With that, I need to build in a framework so I can have a functional top surface.

DETAILS

Before I can put the final touches on this free cabinet, I need to add a different style. I pull out a set of three remnant Art Deco drawer pulls that I save from a previous waterfall chest of drawers. However, I need a total of four.

So that means I need to create a match.

It’s not perfect, but it works for me.

FINISHING

Finally, after much sweat equity (literally) and elbow grease, here’s my free cabinet with a modern makeover.

While the lights in my family room are turned to a soft yellow, the paint I used on this piece is called tea time – a very soft beige. I’m loving the soothing vibe it has and plays well with the color of my recent DIY accent wall.

I did debate on making the backing or maybe the side panels a different color, or shaded, or…? What would you have done?

Likewise, I want to see how I feel about the depth of it for a time before fulling filling it. It does block my wall furnace a bit and was more wanting several bookshelves without doors.

But I do love it.

Even my lavender I planted in my backyard makeover is blooming beautifully and smells AMAZING.

Oh, and can you tell which pull is the one I made by hand? {{wink, wink}}

Now it’s your turn… would you have (1) beaten this apart to get it in your car? (2) would you have kept the crown moulding? (3) would you have kept the distressed black or…?

Let me hear it! As well, pin and share to inspire others.

Before you go, be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter. Until next time!

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In the mood for more DIY like this free cabinet makeover? Check out these projects:

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With my family room being hard-core full of straight edges and lines, I want to add softness to the basically “ugly” corner of the room. Do you have one of those too?

Below is a list of all that I’ve been working on in this space since moving in: (all are full of free and helpful information and vlogs)

• Family Room Demolition Begins
• Family Room Lighting
• Hide Wiring in Open Ceiling
• DIY Open Staircase
• Open Staircase Update
• Family Room Update
• Wall to Ceiling Transition
• Paint an Open Beam Ceiling
• DIY Accent Wall
• Open Staircase Trim

Now if that doesn’t inspire you to just get started, I don’t know what will! hee hee.

ARCH YOU EXCITED?

For the record, I’m not a huge fan of hollow core doors. However, I am also not a fan of replacing what’s functioning perfectly with something new.

With that in mind, I aim to take what is functional and give it a new look to suit my desire.

In my previous home, you can see I transformed seven of my doors into wood grain paneled doors even though there were boring hollow core. See the full tutorial HERE.

This time around, I’m adding curved elements any way I can, including the arch wainscoting I completed in my new entry HERE with tutorial.

Likewise, you can see how I took old louver doors and gave them a modern vibe when I built my son’s bedroom.

So, of course I want to break up the space a bit with a softer arched hollow core door.

If you want to dress up your boring doors as well, there are many ways you can achieve it. To do this exact style, you’ll need the steps and supplies below as well as my vlog tutorial.

STEP 1

Gather your materials and supplies. I’m sharing the steps to use my design for my size door – adjust your measurements to suit your needs.

Materials & supplies:

• 1 – 4′ x 8′ sheet of ¼” luan (thin plywood) you can use thinner, but there will be less definition. Also, certain stores will cut it down for you for free to fit in your vehicle if you ask.
• brad nailer and ¾” brads or you can staple as well
• jigsaw with fine tooth blade or coping saw or scroll saw… you get the idea.
• circular saw with rip-cut jig or straight edge
• string & pencil
• wood glue (optional)
• tape measure
• builder’s square
• safety gear
• and your choice of finish materials (paint, stain… the sky’s the limit)

First, find the dimensions of your hollow core door. My door is 30″ wide and 77 ½” H.

STEP 2

While you could totally do this with the door in place, I prefer to work with it in a workspace, so things are square and don’t move.

Next, rip your luan into four pieces:

• 2 – 3″ x door length strips
• 1 – 3″ x door width minus 6″ (to equate for the two side strips)
• 1 – panel for top arch (see diagram above and instructions below)

Once I have my pieces cut, I need to create the arch part of this design.

STEP 3

In order to create the panel for the arch, I suggest watching the vlog below for how I figure out the measurements.

My panel measures 30″ W x 15″ high to accommodate the 3″ side strips.

Make two 3″ marks on your panel and find center on both the long top edge and bottom edge. Using our string and pencil, we hold the string taught at bottom center while holding the pencil upright at top center.

Working to one side and then the other, create your arch landing at the 3″ marks.

Then, using your saw of choice, cut the arch.

Attach your pieces (use wood glue if you prefer extra hold) to the door using your nailer or stapler. Make sure to account for hinges, handle/knob holes, and even if your door closes from the inside out or outside in.

*note: You may have to adjust your strips and panel for door jamb thickness, which I address in my paneled hollow core door project linked post above. I simply cut the frame pieces to sit just inside the jamb.

I had already replaced the knobs with handles when I moved in. However, at this point I also clean and paint the hinges to match.

Next, fill in nail holes with wood filler, let cure and sand.

STEP 4

At this point for me, I needed to take a carved piece of time out to tend to my health – my mental health.

You see, I am sharing a small portion of my story to inspire those of us that have a burden many cannot see. View my vlog for the details.

STEP 5

Finally, you can finish your door as you see fit.

For me to finish the space in continuity with my other work and rooms, I paint it Pure Earth – a soft, subtle tone.

Now my eyesore is gone, and I can get carry on. I finish the baseboards up to the wall furnace I have next to tackle.

In addition, I also share an exciting story to come in my vlog above!

Now it’s your turn to tell me… would you do an arched hollow core door? Or would you do the panel style I’ve done before? Let me hear it in comments below. What is more, also pin and share so others can enjoy this free tutorial.

Before you go, be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter. Until next time!

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In the mood for more tutorials like this arched hollow core door? See these:

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As you may recall, in my last post, my family room went to the next level. woot!

Here is where I’m at beginning today…

In case you’re wondering what this room looks like before I started, take a peek at these projects below:

• Family Room Demolition Begins
• Family Room Lighting
• Hide Wiring in Open Ceiling
• DIY Open Staircase
• Open Staircase Update
• Family Room Update
• Wall to Ceiling Transition
• Paint an Open Beam Ceiling
• DIY Accent Wall

whew!

Now, as you can see the staircase is quite the project to begin with. However, I’m finally seeing my sweat equity show up in the finish.

Before even beginning on the trim, I replace all five outlets. eep! That was nuts because they were all on different UNMARKED breakers.

WHY??? Why didn’t someone at least mark them on the breaker box? That is a pet peeve of mine, just sayin’.

BEGINNING OF THE END

My focus to get things finished elsewise is the trim. I started the baseboard and ceiling to wall transitions previously. This time around, the staircase openings, doorframes, and window trim need addressed.

First, I need to decide if I’m going to adhere to local code or keep it as I want… open. (code here is a 4″ diameter object may not pass thru the openings)

To start, I rip and cut the 1″x 4″ pine wood to frame the outside of the openings same as I did for the inside of the staircase.

Then, once I measure each piece, I attach as I go using my brad nailer.

As I discuss in my vlog below, I want to see it framed up before I decide on adding balusters or how I will finish it off with paint or stain.

What would you do?

Not only did I open the staircase walls to promote light entering in, but also because I want the rooms to flow. I need to take into account the kitchen, the entry, the staircase, and the family room. Each face of the trim needs to work with the other.

After much consideration and walking around the rooms in a 360° fashion, I decide I want the open staircase trim to invite the eyes in. What I mean is when you look at the staircase, I don’t want your eye to be stopped by the framework, much like the seven windows in my dining area of my previous home.

If I created a dark or contrasting frame, it keeps the eye from traveling beyond as I explain below.

PAINT IT IS

However, not just these openings need trim, but also my entry door, closet door, window trim and baseboard.

Before I can paint, I need to caulk, caulk, and fill in nail holes and then prep the surfaces with a good cleaning.

As a result of my choosing to leave the openings as-is as far as open wide, I choose to paint the open staircase trim the same creamy white (white veil) as I use on my textured family room walls and in my new entry.

Do you see how when the trim vanishes into the wall you eye is draw through the openings?

Yes, I have a hot mess ceiling in my kitchen. Time is all I need… and money. {{wink,wink}}

My kids came home and said things like, “wow… it’s so much brighter in here!” “the stairs feel so much more open now”.

I agree. As I explain in my vlog above, I went with this finish for many reasons.

What would you have done if this were your space?

With pending finish in the staircase with new treads, paint, and combining that with what I plan for the kitchen/dining, I’m smitten with this solution.

I’ve ran out of time to finish all the baseboard but only need two more walls finished. However, you can see the closet and window trim.

There’s still my weight stand I made from a curbside bedframe. woot!

I will be working a design for the door similar to my hollow core door DIY HERE. What is more, I still have the rest of the baseboard and what I’ll be doing to dress up the gas wall furnace I’ve shown before.

THERE IS LIGHT

But what a difference in this space!! Not only that, but in my staircase and the view from the kitchen.

This is the view midday without lights on and with lights below.

In my lighting post linked at the top, I only had two small wall sconces on the right side of the entry into the room. Now we can see!

Oh, and Loula approves. (though that boob light has got to GO!)

My goal, as always, is to inspire you to make your house your home. I’m working on my own spaces when time allows and hoping you’ll share with others so they can be inspired too.

Before you go, be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter. Until next time!

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Now that you’re in the mood, here are more DIY projects like this open staircase trim:

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Many of you know my recent new move and journey have been related to the weather in many facets. If inclement weather, I work inside. If gorgeously sunny and dry, outside I go!

Since the last weekend predicted not just rain, but storms, I decide to head back to my family room remodel and knock out as much as time affords me.

Here’s where I left off three months ago in late spring.

Yeah, fun to look at all summer, eh?

With storms rolling in, I decide to put my efforts back inside my home.

However, do take a peek at my summer work in these recent posts:

• Backyard official beginning
• Installing my French drain
• Felling the rotted trees
• Clearing the terrace
• Building my stone retaining wall
• DIY slope stairs
• DIY fire pit
• Free hammock stand build plans
• Free lean-to shed plans
• When to stain pressure treated wood

So, you can see I’ve kept pretty busy since moving in less than 10 months ago. What is more, here are the posts showing my previous work on my family room remodel:

• Family Room Demolition Begins
• Family Room Lighting
• Hide Wiring in Open Ceiling
• DIY Open Staircase
• Open Staircase Update
• Family Room Update
• Wall to Ceiling Transition
• Paint an Open Beam Ceiling

whew!

And that doesn’t count all the other projects in this house and more.

Okay, as a glutton for sweat equity stands before you, let’s get this remodel back in the active phase, shall we?

BACK IN THE SADDLE

Okay, so you can see that it’s time the walls get much-needed love. That begins with me finishing the drywall mudding after removing the drop-ceiling and panels on the walls.

If you recall, when I built my son’s bedroom (first project in this home) I find I’m not a huge fan of drywall. ahem

That means I have been dreading the sanding part of finishing these walls.

The mudding part is… meh. But the mess from sanding is totally unfun.

Here’s the result of me spending most of an entire day taping and mudding. Then, it needs to cure until next day.

I mention in my vlog below that I knew I was running out of topping joint compound, so I head to the store.

After that, I pull an executive decision to make a major change that I actually am hoping would come to fruition.

Texture it is!! As someone with European background, I’ve always been drawn to certain styles. This time, I’m making it happen for me.

yippee!!

First, I use the TJC (topping joint compound) to make layers. AND THAT MEANS NO SANDING!

Then, while that cures, I set to start my DIY accent wall on the new drywall at the end of the room.

But first… I do have to sand this wall. grrr…

Here’s my setup to prevent a headache later on.

JUST KEEP ROLLIN’

As if my traps, shoulders, and hands aren’t tired already, it’s time to paint. All the work has paid off, and I can see the end!!

I’m using the same creamy white color I used in my entry, called White Veil in eggshell finish.

I’ll give bonus points to those that know what I use to cover my roller and pan while waiting for first coat to cure. (answer is in my vlog)

Waiting for the paint to cure is the hard part.

But that can mean that leaves time to have at another part of the room.

DIY ACCENT WALL

Last but not least, it’s time to create this accent wall.

Why an accent wall? This gives an opportunity to create dimension in an otherwise boxy room, add style and a bit of color (as my space is pretty dark).

While you can do anything to create an accent, I’m choosing to use the scrap wood from framing my staircase openings.

Thankfully, I didn’t burn them and still have them in the rafters of my garage (see vlog).

First, I add the baseboard to my wall so I can have accurate measurements. Keep in mind your own baseboard depth. Mine is ¾”, so my strips are ¾” wide and no greater in depth than that (my scraps are ½”).

Then, I find center and measure out 1 ½” from center each way creating a 3″ gap between my twelve strips. That also means the strip sections are 22″ apart. Feel free to adjust that spacing for your own needs.

Once, I have all the marks in place, I cut the strips to length and attach to the wall using my nailer and 1 ½” brad nails. However, since these strips are thin, make sure to attach at the center, then use a level to assure straight lines on top and bottom.

Once you have your trim pieces attached, use spackling or wood filler to fill nail holes and sand smooth. I didn’t feel the need to caulk the strips, but you can do that if your walls need it.

OOH… BLUE

And we get to paint again… WOOT!

This time, I’m using Norwegian Blue and the same Pure Earth I use in my DIY arched wainscoting tutorial. I want to bring a soothing vibe to this space and tie in my repurposed door mirror as well as other pieces I already have.

Finally, after waiting the summer months to get back into my family room remodel project, it’s time to see a new chapter.

FAMILY ROOM CONTINUES

The paint really creates an entirely different feel from the before when I moved in. (see link above)

No more drop ceiling, no more only two wall sconces for light (I installed eight instead), no more faux wood panels, and an open staircase that still needs finishing.

And how about that DIY accent wall? eep!

And even more, I adore the texture on the other walls.

As you can tell, there’s still much more to do, so be sure be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter to join the family and get updated alerts.

And… pin and share to inspire others too!

Until next time!

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While you’re at it, here is more like this DIY accent wall project:

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Ever heard of a blind date with a book?

I’ve not only seen them in movies but also have found they’re quite entertaining for the giver and the receiver.

Let me ‘splain.

WHATCHA TALKIN’ ‘BOUT

Before you send me to the looney bin… consider heading to the donation bin or sale at your local library, thrift store… you get the idea. With the era of online everything, books are fast becoming a lost joy to many.

Not in my family! We are confessed bibliophiles and are eager to enjoy a book at any moment we can.

While I don’t often have time for a long sit down read, I do still grab a few pages whenever I can.

And as far as my six kiddos go, there are numerous times I have had to punish them over the years (YES, punish them) because they were deep diving into a book instead of schoolwork or chores.

Believe me, I consider myself blessed that that is a reality in my home. But like anything, deviation from responsibilities is still a no-no.

Okay, so the idea is to create a whimsical clue-driven “date”. Much like your friend says, “I know this guy I know you’ll like once you get to know him”.

You see me shopping for this blind date book DIY up above. Here’s what my youngest and I come home with to gift to someone using the Little Free Libraries in our city.

Since she is co-creating these dates with me, we primarily focus on children’s literature. However, this tutorial is for children of any age! (1-100!) And these make for wonderful gifts for any and all occasions.

Some of the thrifted books have marker on them, price tags, etc. That is perfectly fine as we can remove that at home or call it part of the whimsy of this treasure hunt.

WHAT NEXT?

Once we have our titles in hand, we head to our own scrap stash as well as the local dollar store to get clues that will give this blind date book DIY enticing qualities.

We select stickers, washi tape, notepads, pencils, and plan to make our own bookmarks in addition to the magnetic ones we found as well.

In all, we spent less than $2 for the book and materials to create this blind date.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• shipping paper, wrapping paper, newspaper or comics, etc.
• glue stick
• tape
• scissors
• drawing materials – colored pencils, pens, markers, etc.
• plus any extras you want that will fit in a thin pocket on your book.

I am outlining the steps below in written form. At the same time, the best way to see this in action is in our vlog below.

STEP 1

Now that you have your books, it’s time to get them ready for their date!

First, cut your paper to fit – that means tall enough to double over the front and back. Also, wide enough that each side is as wide as the book cover (see video for details)

Once you have your paper cut, here is one of many ways to fold it for optimal pockets. You’re basically making right angles on the front and back side – similar to gift wrapping. The video above really shows this best.

STEP 2

Then, beginning with the two front folds, bring them across to the opposite edge of the book and crease. Tape down at corners to create pockets. However, when you get to the last fold, for a clean finish use a glue stick or double-sided tape to conceal your edge.

Close up the bottom as you would when wrapping a gift – tuck in the side edges, fold bottom in first followed by top and tape shut.

STEP 3

This is the fun part!! Time to fill your blind date with all sorts of clues to what the story inside is all about. Or just have fun adding little memory keepers, sweet treats, etc.

Since we’re making these for basically strangers, we’re keeping it neutral. What is more, to keep this budget-friendly, we divide up the pack of 3 notepads into 6 smaller pads and use washi tape to decorate the top. See vlog above for how to make the backing.

What a blast we have creating bookmarks, writing up a snippet to keep the date fun, as well as getting our creative juices flowing in every facet.

Honestly, my girl and I got so caught up in creating that we didn’t want to stop! WARNING: it’s addictive!

Gotta love Loula watching every bit.

STEP 5

Finally, in case you’re wondering how to put it all together, take a look at these three examples:

To inspire you, here are the titles we chose and what we wrote on each one:

• Vacation Under the Volcano – Magic Treehouse Book: “Ready for a vacation with some heat?”
• Midnight on the Moon – Magic Treehouse Book: “This lunar adventure is the last clue.”
• Five Smooth Stones – My America, Hope’s Diary: “Does this revolutionary tale end with her family reunion?”
• The First Four Years – Little House Series: ” Moving into her own little house, this family begins a journey.”
• Anne of the Island – Anne of Green Gables Series: “Living on a Canadian island offers adventure for this redheaded teen.”
• Island of the Blue Dolphins: “Can she survive being left on this island?”
• Meet Addy – American Girl Series: “Get to know an 1864 American girl.”
• Black Beauty: ” This mane character finds a happy ending.”

We also added an age suggested reading as well as where to find this tutorial.

Then, of course, we had a blast delivering the books all over town. We have over a dozen in our area both publicly and privately owned. That makes my heart skip-happy!

Want to know if there’s any in your area? Use the world map HERE.

LET US KNOW!

First, are you ready for a blind date now?

Second, would you do this DIY project for a gift or these free libraries?

Leave some comment love below as well as share what your favorite book is – we’re always looking for more books to read!

Pin and share to inspire others – it’s the easiest, smartest thing to do. ahem.

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In the mood for more creative fun like this blind date book DIY? Check these out:

The post Blind Date Book DIY appeared first on Livin' Real with Larissa.

You see, about this time last year, I am finishing my first-year post-divorce with summer coming to a quick close.

Enter in Mary Jo.

I share this story in my vlog below, so be sure to take a peek.

Of course, I couldn’t say no to such a sweet gal.

So, for Mary Jo, I want to breathe new life into these step back side tables so they have many more years of enjoyment in her home.

Initially, Mary Jo kept the drawers as she only wanted the tabletops refinished. But that quickly changed. (you’ll see that in a bit)

However, I haven’t really worked on furniture for several years now. You can see my full project gallery HERE.

REFINISHING

First, I sand down the top surfaces with my orbital sander as well as hand-sanding.

Isn’t that wood GORGEOUS?!

As Mary Jo states, “There is absolutely nothing wrong with these tables. They’re solid wood, and I like them”.

Honestly, seeing all the love the tables received over many years (they originally belonged to Mary Jo’s inlaws), is a sweet moment.

Oh, and did you see what I found inside them in my vlog?

Crazy, cool!

They have build-up on the legs, so I use my 2:1 water/vinegar mix to refresh them.

Mary Jo requests that the tops match the skirt and legs, so I choose Early American stain that I’ve used numerous times before.

As soon as I stain and let cure as directions advise, I then apply a satin poly topcoat.

Since I use a oil-based topcoat, it needs four hours to cure. Then, I use steel wool to buff, then clean, and topcoat again.

Now, I did end up getting the drawers because I am refreshing all of this and want these tables to be cohesive. I even take a minute to polish those lovely brass batwing pulls.

MEANWHILE

If you know me, I don’t have much time to spare, so during the four hours of the first coat cure time, I set my mind to FINALLY pressure washing my driveway.

If you recall, during my garage build, the builders had no choice but to make a wicked mess. I spent freezing time trying to get off what I could, promising myself that when I am finally able, I will get that thing clean one way or another.

You can see how previous owners did a bit of cleaning before listing and it was so annoying to walk out my door and see it. tsk.

Now it is GONE.

Part of the fun of pressure washing is getting rid of dirt and grime, even mentally.

RESTORED

Now, back to these step back side tables getting a new life!

Here they are ready for Mary Jo and her sweet pup, Sadie.

Mary Jo said, “They look like they’ve never been damaged.”

And she shares a few other amazing savory bits of advice in my vlog. What a treasure you are, Mary Jo!

Hopefully, you’re feeling inspired in some form. Leave some comment love below as well as pin and share to inspire others.

Before you go, be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter. Until next time!

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For more inspiration like these step back side tables, check out these past posts:

The post Step Back Side Tables appeared first on Livin' Real with Larissa.