Tag Archives: natural

ABC’s of Decorating: “C” is for Candles

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The letter “C” can apply to so many things when it comes to decorating not the least of which is color.  But we talk about color so much that I thought we would discuss something a little different for the letter “C”—candles.

Candles are a very important part of decorating.  They add light, ambience, color and scent to a room. Let’s take a look at some of the choices you have.

Soy or Wax?

As the name implies, soy candles are made from a wax derived from soy beans.  This results in a natural product that is fairly inexpensive and very renewable.  Soy candles can last up to three times longer than regular paraffin wax candles and usually burn much cleaner, producing less black soot.  Most scents are added through the use of essential oils keeping with the all natural idea.

Paraffin used in candle making is a by product of petroleum.  Burning petroleum is probably not a good idea but, to be fair, the amount you burn is minimal so probably no need to worry.  Paraffin produces a black soot that you can see on the inside of a candle holder or even on the wall next to the candle.  Paraffin is often less expensive than soy but if you take into consideration the amount of burn time you receive with soy it probably all pencils out.

Scented or unscented?

This is strictly a personal choice.  It is nice to burn a candle with a scent reminiscent of the season i.e. pine during the holidays or pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving, but it is not a good idea to use a scented candle to mask odors.  I also recommend that scented candles not be used during a dinner party as the aroma can interfere with all the yummy smells of dinner.

Does size matter?

For safety reasons it is important to use a properly fitting candle in any holder.  A taper that is too tall may topple over and a pillar candle that allows the flame to rise above the edge of the holder could create problems if left unattended.  Conversely, a tiny tea light in a very large hurricane will hardly produce the ambience and light you are looking for.

Safety first.

Keep in mind…never leave a candle unattended and never place them in areas where children will be playing.  An easy solution is to use  battery operated candles.  They are available in sizes that range from small tea lights to very large pillar candles.  Some are even scented.  This makes it possible to enjoy candlelight without worrying about fire or damage from dripping wax.  Use them outdoors in lanterns, place them in the powder room or add one as a nightlight in your child’s bedroom. 

Believe it or not there is actually a National Candle Association.  Be sure to visit their site for more information.

Home Decor Fabric: Canvas

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Canvas is a thick and durable cotton fabric that has many uses when it comes to decorating.

  1. Many of you have lovely outdoor living areas that can benefit from curtains to protect you from the wind, light rain or just for appearance.  Canvas can withstand the elements and still be attractive.  Place the curtains around a cabana, patio; even a front porch. 
  2. If you are really creative, paint a canvas floor cloth for your kitchen, laundry room or sunroom.  Be sure to add a rug pad underneath to keep the rug in place.
  3. Awnings and window coverings for boats and rv’s are often made of canvas.  Choose a color that coordinates with your interior for a pulled together look.
  4. Canvas slipcovers create the quintessential beach look and are so simple to care for.  What could be easier than throwing your couch into the washer?  No more worries about muddy dog feet or sticky suntan lotion ruining your upholstery.
  5. Small items like tote bags, book covers, aprons, even lampshades can be made from canvas and customized with paint or embellishments.

Online fabric store offers both natural and organic canvas in colors and patterns to suit any decor.

Home Decor: Inviting Nature into your Home

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With the arrival of warm weather it is now possible for us to open our doors and windows and enjoy the beauty of nature—warm air, the smell of freshly mowed grass, the sound of the birds and the bounty of colors in the garden.  These same sights and sounds can be brought indoors through the use of a few decorating tricks.

  • Birds are a big trend this spring and summer and can be found on pillows and in artwork and other home accessories.  Switch out your heavy landscapes for a couple of bird prints or add some curtain panels using some of the lovely fabrics featuring these feathered friends.
  • Bring the outdoors in by using a few simple cuttings from your yard.  These could be ferns, twigs, leaves and stems from bushes, anything green will add a touch of life to your home. Place them in simple mason jars or group them together in a beautiful vase for an easy and long lasting centerpiece.
  • Faux bois (means fake wood in french) furniture pieces are available in small chairs, tables and benches and can be a fun addition to a breakfast room or seating area.  Replace that dark wood end table with a light and airy faux bois table to add interest and texture to a space.
  • Something as simple as a bowl full of seashells or a large piece of coral placed on top of a stack of books will add to the natural look you are seeking.  There are fabrics available that feature all of these items and can be used to fashion fun throw pillows, summer curtains or simple chair pads.
  • Whimsical items like fish and bugs add a fun touch to any room.

Mother nature is the best designer there is so take a look outside and bring those colors and textures indoors.