Skip to main content

Tag: lowes creator

DIY Rolling Door Hardware using Plumbing Pipe

There are some do-it-yourself projects that are wham-bam-done and then there are those DIY creations that seem to take as long as building a house…

Well I just wrapped up a fantastic, in my eyes, DIY project but it didn’t come without a hundred hurdles along the way.  BUT we – yes, the Mister lent a hand for this one – kept chugging along and made it to the end.

My latest + greatest project?  A rolling door with DIY hardware using plumbing pipe.  The popularity of rolling doors continues and even though I’m not in favor of following every trend, adding a door of this style was the only solution for our master closet.

The door to the closet was removed a few years back when revamping the space to maximize on shelf area.  Since then there’s been no door…  Solution?  A rolling door to give privacy + a splash of color.

The result of this challenging, but rewarding result…

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

Let me explain where the hurdles + difficulties arose with this project…

I had anticipated using a reclaimed door, so the hunt was on.  After scouring local thrift stores + ‘junk’ spots, I found the perfect door with the 29″ width that I needed. Brought the door home. Went to sand it but it was an old door, and we assumed it was lead paint.  So we stripped the door using a liquid stripper.  It didn’t work. Hours spent + poor results = a very frustrated DIYer.  We painted over the door to seal it.  Went to hang it and the door was 6″ TOO SHORT.  The salvaged door I spent hours prepping couldn’t be used – UGH.  In the end we used the hinged door that was originally used for this opening.  The width is not ideal, but it works.

Let’s move forward with the tutorial.  There are a lot of parts, so let’s dive in…

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

MATERIALS NEEDED

1 – Flange (qty 2)

2 – 3/4″ x 1″ Black Steel Nipple Fitting (qty 2)

3 – 3/4″ Elbow (qty 2)

4 – 3/4″ Black Iron Pipe – can be cut to size (qty 1)

5 – 3/4″ Black Iron Tee (qty 2)

6 – 3/4″ x 1/2″ Black Steel Nipple Fitting (qty2)

7 – Casters (qty 2)

8 – Black Iron Reducing Coupling (qty 2)

> Screws + anchors (if there are no studs)

> Drill

> Door to your liking

> Handle – plumbing pipe handle is made with (2) flanges + (2) elbows + (1) 12″ L x 1/2″ W pipe

These *should* be all the hardware that is needed, but of course, every project / condition is different.  In my initial trip to Lowe’s for the supplies, I got all of the above with the exception of the Reducing Coupling part.  That was needed because the pipe needed to be reduced from 3/4″ to 1/2″ to fit in the door…

I shopped for all the plumbing parts at my local Lowe’s.  Using their cutting machine, they were able to cut the long pipe to fit my exact length.  For large plumbing pipe projects like a bookcase, this is a great source.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

DIY ROLLING DOOR HARDWARE TUTORIAL

1 To start off, I laid out all of the parts for the rolling door track.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

2 Then I connected the pipes together. Before threading pipe to pipe, it’s best to use a pipe lubricant to make the connection easier + smoother.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

Note, connecting the pipes can be slightly challenging.  I anticipated screwing each connection the entire way so no threading would be exposed.  That is impossible.  A section of the pipe showing the threading will be exposed.  Account for that when taking measurements.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

3 The plumbing pipes didn’t match in color, so to give them a unified look, I spray painted the track using a flat black color.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

4 As I mentioned above, I ended up using the door that was previously hinged.  I added two caster wheels to the bottom of the door.

WHY? Plumbing pipe will bend under tension. If the door was hung from the pipe with no wheels support, the pipe would bend in time.  The wheels support the door and the track keeps the door in place.  

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

5 (2) Holes were drilled at the top of the door for which the nipple fittings will fit into.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

6 With the casters installed on the bottom + the holes drilled on the top, I got the door in position and measured out where the plumbing pipe track should be installed.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

7 Upon measuring and marking the wall (sorry, no pictures, all hands on deck), we were set to install the plumbing pipe.  Using 1.5″ long screws (no anchors needed because we drilled into a stud) we installed the (2) flanges to the wall.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

The nipple fittings held on by the tee fittings slide into the holes in the top of the door.  The drilled holes are just slightly larger than the nipples so they fit snug, BUT the door can easily come out any time.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

The reducing coupling fitting wasn’t originally planned for.  That was a part we added later because the 3/4″ nipple fitting (that comes out of the tee fitting) was too large to fit into a hole in the top of the door. This reducing coupling fitting allows the transition from a 3/4″ nipple fitting to a 1/2″ nipple fitting.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

8 Once the track + door were place, I painted it a fun + vibrant green hue – it ties with the same color used for the DIY chalk paint desk transformation.  The color is Benjamin Moore Martini Olive CSP-890, which I had color matched at Lowe’s using Valspar Signature Paint.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

9 I also painted the screws that hold the track using black paint.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

10 Once the I painted the door face with 2 coats of paint, I added a door handle using plumbing pipe parts.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

And finally, finally, finally, it was COMPLETE!  Phew, it took a village to get this project done…

With any DIY project there is a learning curve and hopefully if you tackle this project, it’ll be smoother sailing with the kinks ironed out from my experience.

THE RESULT

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

Something to note, this is a DIY track with parts that are metal on metal.  The door will go back and forth, but not with ease as a typical rolling door track.  When I first installed the track, it was very difficult to “slide” the door – another hurdle – but I added a lot of lubricant (actually I used petroleum jelly) to the long pole.  Adding the lubricant has made moving the door a lot easier.

That being said, this DIY track is a whole lot less expensive than true rolling door hardware, BUT I wouldn’t use it for areas that need privacy with high-traffic use multiple times a day. For us, this is DIY door is perfect for the master closet since most of the time it’s left open.  As a main hall closet, maybe not so much.

This DIY rolling door came together in part with the tutorial by Kristi @ Addicted 2 Decorating+ some sleuthy thinking and planning on my part for how to make it work for this space.  Because of the limited wall area, a standard track was too big, so without going custom, this was the only solution.

In the end, I love the result.  I’ll be honest though, it didn’t come without a few hiccups and flaws, but it absolutely suits the purpose for the setting.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

It’s definitely been nice to get some privacy – on a rare occasion – and see a pop of color when entering into the room.

AND on the random days when I don’t want to clean up the closet, I just close the door…

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

The view from the side. Thankfully the projection of the door on the track allowed enough room for my mirror to stay in place.

Now you see it… Now you don’t…

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe.  Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space.  Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

Here’s a peek at how the door looks with the rest of the bedroom.  There are pops of this citron color all over…

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

Want to see more of this master bedroom revamp?  Check it out here.

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

While I was working on the closet, I got a bit sidetracked and gave it a mini-makeover.  Some new organizational items – hooks + bins – made all the difference to jazz this space up.

Lowe’s has these awesome new bins that are faux leather.  I feel in love when I saw them.  They are oversized too (13″ x 13″), so they hold alot. They’re perfect for holding scarves, small bags, and summer flip flops.

Lowe's Faux Leather Bin

Here’s a peek at the inside of my closet…

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe.  Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space.  Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

That’s a wrap!

Love this project and want to tackle it now or later? Save or Pin it to your favorite DIY board…

DIY: Rolling door hardware using plumbing pipe. Get the look + function of a rolling door for about $60. Custom size to fit your space. Tutorial by www.JennaBurger.com

Despite my challenges, the result of this project for the price is a great one.  Even though it resulted in my grays than I hoped, it was worth the few tears to achieve the style + function + look I was hoping for, and at the end of the day that’s what I call a success!

DISCLAIMER: THIS DO IT YOURSELF PROJECT WAS IN COLLABORATION WITH LOWE’S.  THE PROJECT IDEA + ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

Bathroom Makeover: Plan of Action {Day 1}

I’m at it again…  another project!  And this is a biggie.  I know, I know…. I haven’t even waited 0.05 seconds before starting something new, but this project has been in the works for over a year and I’m thrilled that my thoughts + ideas are actually coming to fruition!  So the next big remodel… the hall/kids bathroom.

This bathroom got a mini DIY revamp about 3 years ago, but it’s been used & abused by two kiddos, so it was time to put my design expertise to work and create a space that would handle the everyday splashes & wear of two busy bees.

Of course, I can’t start the remodel without a plan of action.  So here it is.  My creative vision board for the new bathroom space…

Bathroom Makeover: Creative Vision Board for the new space. Filled with basics + layers of bold. An entire DIY bathroom remodel.

I’m thrilled to be partnering with Lowe’s on this bathroom renovation and they’ve put me to the test to create a dynamic, on-trend space using their in-stock products (items that can be found in store versus online).   My vision for this revamp is to mix my design style of classic eclectic – classic for the background with bold elements layered in!   Since the tile is the dominate feature (shower + 3′ up all the walls) in this bathroom, that’s where I started…

My design philosophy when creating any space is to go classic for the elements that are expensive and/or difficult to change.  Similar to buying a sofa (which I typically go neutral in color and pattern), I wanted a tile that could “live” a long time…  I DO NOT plan on changing the tile in a year or two (or even 5), so it had to be something that I would like now & in the future.   There is nothing more classic and beautiful than 3 x 6 subway tile.  The bonus, it’s only .22 cents a tile – one of the least expensive Lowe’s has.  But (there’s always a but), I wanted something more.  I needed to create a wow-factor.  So along with the classic subway tile, I am also going to incorporate a gorgeous herringbone carrara marble.  Crossing my fingers that it looks as good on the wall as I envision it in my head {squeal}.

White subway tile - the most classic, most beautiful (an one of the least expensive) tile you can get!

Lowes Herringbone Carrera Marble

But you all know me, I need color somehow, someway.  That’s where the layers in the space come in.  I’ve selected a dynamic wallpaper that is really give an incredible contract against the classic white subway.  It’s bold.  It’s unexpected.  It’s me.

Serena and Lily Palmetto Wallpaper – Inkwell Blue/Khaki

The classic and the bold are covered!  The other elements in this new proposed bathroom are all going to enhance the beautiful classic and bold selections.  The old builder-grade vanity will be headed curbside and a new, more modern vanity in an espresso finish will be installed in it’s place.  For the lighting, I wanted to introduce another unexpected element and chose an oversized single exterior industrial-style light fixture.

Here’s the catch… I’m doing 95% of this bathroom renovation on my own.   I’m crazy, right?!  Nutso, but I’m determined.  The part that I will not be tackling is the install of the new tub and shower components.  The mister nor I have ever installed a tub or shower fittings and are too nervous to tackle it on our own and want to avoid any possible leaks.  We know when to call in the pros and the tub install is not within our skill-set.  I am sure we could do it, but who wants to take the chance?  Not Us!  Beyond that though, it’s all on me.  Tile, toilet, vanity, lighting… All DIY baby!

Since this bathroom makeover is almost an entirely DIY job, it’s going to take longer than typical, so our goal is to tackle it in 30 days.  30 days start to finish, complete!  Can we do it?  Let’s see.  I hope you’ll follow along on another crazy DIY adventure…

{Day 1} Plan on Action – Complete!  29 more days to go…

From start to finish, these are all the posts pertaining to this bathroom remodel
Plan of Action
Demo: Removal + Installation of the Tub & Walls
How-To Tile + Grout the Bathroom Walls
Installing Wallpaper
Adding a Tile Accent Border
Creating a Tiled Niche
Bathroom Makeover Reveal
Resources

This post is sponsored by Lowe’s, but all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.  I am thrilled (and a bit nervous) about tackling this project, but very excited to be partnering with Lowe’s on creating an entirely new bathroom space.  I’d love for you to follow along on this new project!

Color Block Hanging Succulents

I love a quick, wham bam thank you ma’ma kinda DIY project!  Yes, I love the gratification of a big ole’ DIY challenge that takes brains + braun (hello honeycomb shelves), but at the same time something simple is just as satisfying (& takes a whole lot less time).

Now that our baby girl has arrivedand I have no free time to do anything, my mind is all for easy + fast…  I’m in git er’ done mode.  I could never give up DIYing, even if I had 8 kids (which will never happen), so instead of tackling something difficult & timely, I’m going for simple.  My latest & greatest – Color Block Hanging Succulents…

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's jazzed up with paint to create a unique Color Block Succulent Basket {EASY DIY}

Just to be honest and not have you think I am wonder woman, I worked on this project before the baby arrived, then snapped the final pictures for the post yesterday.  Over the last few days, I really have tried to just sit back, rest, and relax – well for the most part.

So on to this really cool & super easy creation…  When I was shopping at Lowe’s for supplies for a few projects last month, I had to hit the succulent / plant section.  Succulents are my favorite this time of year – Spring & Summer – and I love planting smaller and larger sized succulents in pots, cups, or anything that is container-like.  Last years Spring mantel is a great example of a succulent display using all different style containers.

Spring Mantel

While loading up on different sized succulents at Lowe’s, I found a a pre-made wicker-style hanging basket filled with about 4 different style succulents.  How much better does it get than already made?!

Succulent Shopping

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's

I immediately the hanging baskets would look great in the kitchen at the large window that overlooks the backyard.  I knew I would enjoy them immensely while doing dishes at the sink or prepping dinner.

But of course I had to jazz them up…

I first figured out where the baskets would best be placed to hang from the ceiling.  I made a mark, installed an anchor, then a hook.

Hanging Succulent baskets

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's jazzed up with paint to create a unique Color Block Succulent Basket {EASY DIY}

Here comes the easy DIY idea to customize and make them one-of-a-kind, unique pieces.

Using paint that I had on-hand (I had the hardest time choosing the color) and a firm crafting brush, I painted the bottom 1/3 of the wicker / stick basket.  In the end I chose to use plain white and a popping citron green hue (Valspar Olive Tree, which matches the front door).

Color Block Succulent Hanging Baskets - Simple + Fast DIY creation. Sometimes easy is best!

I could have used tape to make sure the line was straight around, but instead I simply “eyed it”.  I added the paint on thick so it got into all the nooks & crannies.

Color Block Succulent Hanging Baskets - Simple + Fast DIY creation. Sometimes easy is best!

Within minutes, I made my way around the entire edge and to dry, I hung them by the hooks.  And that’s it.  Down & Dirty easy DIY!

Here’s the result…

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's jazzed up with paint to create a unique Color Block Succulent Basket {EASY DIY}

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's jazzed up with paint to create a unique Color Block Succulent Basket {EASY DIY}

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's jazzed up with paint to create a unique Color Block Succulent Basket {EASY DIY}

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's jazzed up with paint to create a unique Color Block Succulent Basket {EASY DIY}

So fun, right?!  I love how they look and in just 2 weeks they have grown a lot.  I guess they love the light that filtrates through the large window.

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's jazzed up with paint to create a unique Color Block Succulent Basket {EASY DIY}

Gosh, I just can not get enough of succulents!

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's jazzed up with paint to create a unique Color Block Succulent Basket {EASY DIY}

Pre-made succulent hanging basket from Lowe's jazzed up with paint to create a unique Color Block Succulent Basket {EASY DIY}

Do you love easy DIY creations?  Would you rather start projects from scratch or do you like ‘jazzing’ up something pre-made?

Disclosure: I am part of the Lowe’s Creative Team and was provided with a Lowe’s gift card to purchase items for my project.  I was also compensated for my time to use the products.  No one told me what to create, what to buy, how to use the product, or what to write.  All opinions are 100% mine!

Patio Paradise: Before & After Patio Makeover

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

For the past 2 months we’ve been plotting, planning, shopping, implementing, and transforming our outdoor patio.  It’s been a labor of love to get this space to be an inviting oasis that we always envisioned and now can truly enjoy.

We bought our home in the middle of winter when there was over a foot of snow on the ground.  Once Spring hit, the melting snow revealed what we were up against a lot of work – much more than we anticipated.  In the sideyard, there was an above ground pool, which had seen better days, plus 20+ overgrown trees that made the entire yard look dark & cavernous.

In the last 4 years, we’ve done a lot of work & spent a lot of money to upgrade the area (things that we had to hire out because we couldn’t tackle on our own).  We’ve made progress over the years, but more work to really pull this outdoor space together needed to be done…

If you haven’t seen the before in previous posts (and this is actually after a lot of work had already been done), this is how the outdoor area looked before…

Before

Yikes!

Before

Our objective: To use the patio we already had (no money in the budget for something new) and to create a little slice of paradise with colorful decor!  I’m no expert on outdoor landscaping (or even keeping a flower alive for that matter), but I put my mad decorating skills to the test to transform this space…

If I can do it, so can you!

Before we could sit back, enjoy, and relax, there were a whole lotta steps that went into pulling this patio together.

First, the shopping.

It started with the pergola.  I first spotted it at Lowe’s in late Winter and fell in love.  We’ve always wanted a pergola, but were hesitant on building it from scratch.  Fear sometimes gets the best of us. Anyway, the black steel pergola seemed like the perfect (and much easier) way to go.

Prepping the patio with a new pergola

After that the layers.  Pillows + lanterns + pots + lighting + flowers!  I found all of these beauties at Lowe’s.  They have a great new outdoor collection this year with bold colors & patterns.

Prepping the patio

Once back at the house, one of the first things I tackled was painting the doors to the shed.  I was going for an orange vibe a few years ago, but that idea was ditched and the new outdoor space called for blue.  I started off attempting to spray paint the doors and that didn’t work.  Then I used the HomeRight Mini Paint Stick + a paint brush, and that was just the trick for an easy project makeover…

Prepping the patio with a new color on the shed doors

The patio set we chose was incredibly easy to put together.  So easy that each chair took about 2 minutes and 34 seconds… no joke!  The sides + the back literally snapped into the seat and voila it was done.  No nails, no screws, no allen keys, just wam-bam done!

Prepping the patio with new furniture

The chairs were REALLY heavy, but my man could handle it.  With one hand – WOW.  totally kidding, they are actually incredibly light, but don’t tell him that because he was super impressed with himself.

Ya gotta laugh along the way, right?!

And of course with creating an outdoor oasis, there is a lot of planting involved.  From weeding, planting, and mulching, it took a few weekends to tackle.  Plus there was the cleaning of the pond, the removal of an old fence, and the putting together of the outdoor fireplace – which is a must for a Patio Paradise – so we’ve been busy to say the least…

Prepping the Patio

…but in the end it’s all been worth it because this is the result of our beautiful space.

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

Too fuzzy?  Want a clearer picture?  Check it out…

Come join me on the patio.

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

The garden which was created (not by us, but by a previous homeowner) with a retaining wall sits about 2′ high than the patio and brings nice height and elevation to the patio setting. When you come down to the patio level, you are greeted by a blooming, oversized (not yet, but by mid-summer it’ll be huge) Russian Sage perennial.

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

The pond, which until last week was a muddy, gross mess, brings such a special touch to this area of our yard.  There is nothing like the calming sounds of water.  We’re also still loving the garden sculpture created 2 years ago from an old barrel. It’s such a pretty focal point.

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

The cushions for the chairs & sofa are incredible because the rain beads away instead of soaking in.  I found that out the other day by mistake.  Typically we put the cushions away each night, but they were accidentally left out.  The next day I was super bummed {enter mad-at-myself-face}, but when I touched them, they were completely dry!  They are made of Sunbrella fabric & I’m really impressed.

With the patio furniture set came different pillows, but instead of being matchy-matchy, I swapped them for a few others that I was drawn to at Lowe’s.

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

Lantern Love…

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

Want some drinks? Let’s chill at the table.

I took this beautiful Indian throw that I typically have on a chair indoors and used it as a table cloth.  The colors are so vibrant + bold, so it really brought a fun & festive vibe to the new patio.  Again, using what I have on-handmade makes it easier and less costly.

A simple pallet box that the Mister made is set as the centerpiece filled with colorful annuals.

10

Can you blame me for not wanting to leave my house for the next 2 months?!

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

For the underside of the pergola, I hung a lantern that I purchased a few years ago and draped lights from each corner to the center.

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

Important Info: The pergola came with 6″ stakes to anchor it into the ground.  First, we positioned the pergola on the patio, so the stakes wouldn’t work.  Secondly, I would be reluctant using stakes because I could still see the pergola pulling away.  The pergola has received rave reviews on the Lowe’s site, but the anchoring to the ground has been the only issue.  With an intense gust of wind, the fabric could easily act as a sail.

To make the pergola sturdy and in-place, we first used a masonry drill bit to make a hole into the concrete patio.  Then we used Tapcon concrete screws (see them here) in each of the 4 holes on the 4 posts.  It was a fairly easy process which took about 10 minutes.

Patio Pergola

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

Now that it’s all complete {thank goodness}, we can sit back and simply enjoy!

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

We’ve already enjoyed our first fire.  And within minutes of us starting it, some neighbors popped over.  That’s what Summer is all about…

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

And it melted my heart when the kids grabbed the poufs and started to read side-by-side.  It didn’t last long (I’m not going to pretend we are some kind of ‘perfect’ family where our kids always get along), but for the short moment, it was a treasure which I bookmarked in my mind.

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

If you missed (or didn’t see) the mood board I created for the patio outdoor space, this was the original vision that I created.  It always helps to have a ‘plan of action’ when shopping & executing a new space – either indoors or out.   Sources (with links) for all the elements are in last week’s post: The Plan.

Patio Paradise Mood Board: Creating an inviting, relaxing patio oasis

No landscape expert designed this outdoor room, just lil’ ole’ me & I’m pretty darn satisfied!

Here’s a recap of the before & after…

A revamped patio with new outdoor furniture + a Pergola. This new space is surrounded by flowers & the sounds of water from a small pond. A tranquil & ideal oasis for the Summer!

Want to see another outdoor space of ours that I just finished?  Check out the deck

An Outdoor Deck for Outdoor Living: sharing our outdoor oasis where we'll be spending lots of time over the next few months!

You know where we will be all Summer!  Come join us!!

Thanks for coming over for a tour of our new patio paradise.  It’s a dream that this space (+ the deck) are finished.  I can now sit back & enjoy the Summer days to come!

What outdoor projects have you tackled this year?  Do you have a patio or deck that you transformed or plan on transforming?

Disclosure: I am part of the Lowe’s Creative Team and was provided with a Lowe’s gift card to purchase items for my project.  I was also compensated for my time to use the products.  No one told me what to create, what to buy, how to use the product, or what to write.  All opinions are 100% mine!

Patio Paradise: The Plan + Mood Board

Patio Paradise Mood Board: Creating an inviting, relaxing patio oasis

I hope you had a fabulous Memorial Day weekend!   Not only did we spend time thanking those who served our country, but we enjoyed much of the long weekend soaking up the sun + enjoying the beautiful outdoors.  BUT like always, with playtime comes worktime.  Before setting our sights on BBQing & the beach, we worked all day Saturday on the outdoors.

Over the past month, we have been spilling hours into transforming our sideyard into a Patio Paradise!  I’m thrilled to be partnering with Lowe’s on this project to create a space that is inviting, relaxing, and truly a magical oasis.  With the new baby coming in just a few short weeks, I am banking on this new area being our stay-cation spot for the Summer.

Here’s a peek at the shopping and prepping that has gone into to making this Patio Paradise come to fruition…

Progress on creating a Patio Paradise

When you have a blah blank slate, there is alot that can be done. Only a few years ago, the area where our new oasis now sits was filled with a dilapidated above-ground pool + 15 overgrown trees.  It surely has taken a turn (for the better) since then!

Before

Before

I’m super excited for this outdoor space to be done & to share it with you.  As I’ve mentioned once and again (and maybe 48 other times), I don’t have a green thumb + many perennials are difficult to grow in my neck of the woods because of the long winters.  But, I can say that new buds are popping each day.  In no time, this space will be done and I’ll be able to share with you my new Patio Paradise!  In the meantime, if you’ve got your eye on any of the elements in my mood board, here are direct links to the sources…

Patio Paradise Mood Board: Creating an inviting, relaxing patio oasis

1. Outdoor Lights
2. Pergola
3. Garden Pot (navy)
4. Lanterns – Large & Small
5. Pillows – Blue Multi / White Medallion / Bird
6. (2) Side Chairs + Pillows
7. Loveseat + Coffee Table
8. White Garden Stool
9. Planter
10. Outdoor Rug
11. Pouf
12. Outdoor Fireplace

Once our Patio Paradise is complete, we’ll be ready for a big ole’ bash!  I wish you could all come.  The reveal + party pics coming soon.  In the meantime, later this week (or possible next week) I’ll be sharing the other outdoor spaces around our home.  Along with the patio, we’ve been busy updating the back deck + the front porch.  I better get back to work…

What updates have you made to your outdoor spaces this Spring?

Disclosure: I am super excited to be partnering with Lowe’s on this outdoor project.  I love working with Lowe’s because they offer a range of items with great design qualities.  As always, they did not tell me what to write, what to choose, and all thoughts are 100% my own.  They gave me free-reign on everything so my design ideas + thoughts are 100% genuine.

Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint

OK, so let me start off by saying, THIS. IS. MY. FAVORITE. FURNITURE. TRANSFORMATION. yet

And the kicker is, I have a lot of furniture purging planned for the Spring and this desk was on the to-go list.  Can you believe I was going to sell this beauty?!

Here’s the before and after + a few closeup shots.  I’ll share the details of the transformation on the other side…

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COMPretty crazy that it’s the same piece, right?!  And I am in love with the color.

So this month’s Lowe’s challenge for the Creative Team was to create / transform something using make your own chalk finish paint.  Since I’m in the midst of my master bedroom makeover and this desk was about to go curbside, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to jazz it up. If the result wasn’t right, nothing lost, nothing gained.

The desk was purchased years ago from the Bombay company (during my dark-furniture-all-over days) and it’s served it’s purpose well, but I was ready to say adios.

The making of my own chalk paint made me a bit nervous, since I’ve only used the premade mix by Annie Sloan and that took a bit of getting used to (more for the wax application than the actual paint).  But, I decided to jump right in.

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Here are the supplies I used:

  • Latex flat paint (I used Valspar Signature latex)
  • Plaster of Paris
  • Stir sticks
  • Plastic bucket
  • Water (cool, not warm)
  • Measuring Cup ( do not reuse for food)
  • Sealer – wax or polyurthetane

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, www.sasinteriors.net

Here is the formula I used:

  • In a mixing cup, add 1 cup of latex paint
  • Then add 1/3 cup Plaster of Paris + 1/3 cup cold water
  • Mix all together until the Plaster of Paris is fully dissolved

The mix will make enough chalk paint to apply about one coat to an average-sized 6 drawer dresser.  I ended up using only 1/4 of the mix and apply 2-3 coats, so it makes a lot.  Chalk paint goes a lot further than typical paint.

Once the formula was mixed, I was ready to paint!

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

It’s important not to have too much paint on the brush, especially when painting furniture.  It’s better to apply thinner coats.  When applying too much paint at once, drips and runs could develop in the corners and crevices of the furniture.

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

If that happens, no worries.  Get as much paint off the brush as possible and drag out the “puddled” paint so it thins out and covers more of the furniture surface.

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

I forgot to mention this neat tid-bit about the desk… it actually opens up to a writing surface.

Before Desk

The difficult part was deciding where to start and stop the paint because I did not want to paint the inside – too difficult.

In the end, I chose a start and stop point for where the paint would go.  At first I was only going to paint the legs, but wasn’t thrilled with the look.  Here is a peak…

Before Deskpainting on the counter is so much easier than on the floor!

So in the end, I decided to paint the top as well, leaving only the line of the desk that opens, the original stained finished.  It actually makes for a more interesting piece – well, I think.

Here’s the top with one coat of chalk finish paint.

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

2 coats later (3 in some spots), the desk was complete…

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

And ready to display in my room…

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

I sealed the entire desk with wax that I had on-hand.   Others that have used their own chalk finish paint have used clear finishing wax (Lowes link) or polyurethane.

If you want to read more on applying wax, head over to this post

Applying Clear Wax

The revamped desk fits perfectly next to my existing dresser with a new gallery wall above (more details on that coming soon – I’m still finishing it up)

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

The chair wasanother furniture transformation from a few years ago and I just recently added a new cushion using black and white striped fabric from The Online Fabric Store.  The furry looking throw draped over the chair back is actually fabric that I plan on making some fun pillows with.

Check out what this space looked like before…

Master Before

BIG DIFFERENCE!

Let me show you a few more ‘after’ shots…

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

What do you think?

What’s your favorite part of my desk?  The new color? The lines of the desk? Or the ‘secret’ compartment of the writing desk?  For me, it’s all fun, but I think I love the paint color the best.  By the way, the color is Benjamin Moore Martini Olive.  Lowe’s color matched it for me and used their Valspar Signature Latex paint.

Benjamin Moore Martini Olive

Before and After Desk Makeover using Make Your Own Chalk Finish Paint. Transformation by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

My thoughts on making my own Chalk Finish Paint.

I really like it!  Comparing it to other chalk finish paints, it is very similar and obviously the cost is a lot less AND you can make any color you’d like.  With other chalk finish paints there are only about 30-40 different colors to choose from.  When making your own, your color choices are limitless.  The cost is also significantly less because the Plaster of Paris is about $6 and a quart of paint is about $15-20.  Since only one cup is needed, a sample pod / tester most likely would have been enough for this project.  Also, I could have used a latex color that I already had on hand (in my stash).  Comparing the application process, it’s very similar and the finish result is about the same.  A dull, chalky (but not grainy) finish is what you will get.  Waxing is important when using any chalk finish paint because it seals the color and finish. I’ve also heard of people using polyurethane as a sealer, but I have never tried that.

Why chalk finish paint?

I feel the advantage of using chalk finish paint is the elimination of sanding, prepping, and priming the existing wood.  When using chalk finish paint, you can simply start the painting process directly over the stained or painted finish.  *If a piece of furniture has a hi-gloss, then I would recommend sanding and possibly priming first so you have a thorough base to paint.

I hope you enjoyed my adventure of making my own chalk finish paint.  I love trying out new things and this is a winner!  Have you used chalk finish paint?  Have you made your own or have you used a premade mix?  Would you try this on a piece of furniture?

 

Lowes Winter 2014 badge

 

To gather even more unique, fun, and creative ideas for your indoor and outdoor Winter spaces, I would definitely suggest downloading the Lowe’s Creative Ideas app on your iphone and/or ipad.  I’m always checking out the FREE app for great seasonal + do-it-yourself inspiration. And even better, this Pallet Christmas Countdown creation will be featured in the upcoming Winter guide – how cool, right?!

 

 Also consider following Lowe’s on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram as well.

Disclosure: I am part of the Lowe’s Creative Team and was provided with a Lowe’s gift card to purchase items for my project.  I was also compensated for my time to use the products.  No one told me what to create, what to buy, how to use the product, or what to write.  All opinions are 100% mine!

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for the Inside of the Cabinet Doors

Happy Monday!  I was feeling a bit under the weather last week which is why the blog and my other favorite places to share + converse on the ‘net’ – IG, FB, etc – were quiet.  I’m still not feeling 100%, but am excited to share something I’ve been working on lately…  getting my kitchen organized.

For me, organization is a never ending battle.  I never feel like everything completely has a home, but I’ve accepted that and continually try to work towards creating a more efficient, more organized home.

When Lowe’s put to me to the challenge this month to tackle the kitchen, I knew it was a win-win.  To start off, I took a step back to analyze how the space could be more organized and user-friendly for cooking and storage.  I made a few moves of pots and pans, but what I really wanted to put-to-good-use was the insides of the kitchen cabinets. All that vertical space going unused?  The ideas started to flow…

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

My kitchen isn’t small, but it isn’t huge either.  With no pantry or extra storage for food, I’m always thinking about how to best store the food / “pantry items” in the cabinets.  For the most part, we eat real food / very little processed food.  That means no snacks that have to be stored for a long period of time because the food I buy has little “shelf time”.  Good for me, that the food we buy takes up less shelf area.  Bad for me, I go food shopping a lot.

Anyway, there is one large cabinet that all the food is stored in.  It’s a large cabinet at about 30″ wide with (2) doors.  Take a look…

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COMdon’t you just love peaking into other peoples cabinets??? What are they eating?  What do they buy?  We use a lot of coconut oil – 3 jars right there in front.

Great change, right?!  Nothing from this space had to go, but instead everything was reorganized to be easier to get at in an instant.

Let me show you a bit more of what I did…

On the inside of the left cabinet, I lined the inset panel with stylish geometric patterned contact paper.  Similar to what I did for my TV cabinet back in the Summer.  I purchased the roll of contact paper at TJ Maxx for about $5 – what a great score.

Once I aligned the contact paper on the cabinet and pulled off the backing, I used a straight edge to trim the excess.

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, www.sasinteriors.net

Once the contact paper was adhered, it was time to dress it up.

Before my interior cabinet updo, I never had a great place for spice storage, so that was a major need on my list.  I looked around for pre-made styles, but nothing fit the bill just right, so I made my own.  I’ll show you more on that in an upcoming tutorial, but this is the result…

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger,WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

For less than $8, I created 2 fit-to-size wood spice racks.

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

At the top of the interior of the cabinet, I added a half round piece of trim, which I then added metal screw-in hooks to.

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

I attached the half round piece of trim + the newly made wood spice holders using a very very very strong adhesive – Loctite Epoxy Instant Mix.  Basically it’s two formulas that mix together and provide a major adhesive mixture. DO NOT TOUCH IT.  I carefully applied the mixture to the back of the trim and spice holder, then placed it on the interior of the cabinet.  I held it in place for about 3-5 minutes until it was completely adhered to the surface.  I will be honest, the wood started to slide a few times, but I was close by and slid it back into place.  There are other epoxy mixtures that dry even quicker – 1 minute of less.

DIY: Wood Spice Rach Holder for inside the kitchen cabinets; Less than $8 to make, in 15 minutes by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

It really is the perfect spot to hang many of the kitchen utensils.  Here’s the result…

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Heading over to the other cabinet, the right side, I added a decorative magnetic metal sheet that I found at Lowe’s and adhered it to the inset panel with 3M 77 Multipurpose Adhesive.  I sprayed the adhesive outside on a towel and then ran brought it indoors and positioned it.  All went to plan and my fingers only stuck together a little, phew…

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Having the magnetic sheet on the inside of the cabinet door has been GREAT! This large vertical spot is great to keep my grocery list, to do’s with the kids, and of course our random chinese fortunes…

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

For the interior of the cabinets, I took everything out and simply organized it all.  Well, it wasn’t simple, but it sure was worth it!  For things that could be grouped – like snacks, baking supplies, medicines, teas, etc. – I added bins and labeled them with washi tape.  So easy.  The bins are from ClosetMaid available at Target and they are leftovers from when I reorganized the kids rooms.  They are the ideal size for a typical kitchen cabinet.

For the rest of the food items, I grouped them and organized them as I saw best for how / when I would use them.  Really no rhyme or reason…

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

On to the other large cabinet, the space that holds ALL the dishes.  Another material that I thought would be extra helpful in staying organized in the kitchen was cork.  I purchased a roll of cork and double layered it, then added it to the inside panel of the cabinet interior, again using the 3M Multipurpose Adhesive.

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

This is such a great spot for the school calendar, plus random coupons, and reminders.  I also use the cork board when following a recipe.  I pin it on the board and it’s right in front ready to follow as I’m prepping.

Also on this inside cabinet, I added another half round trim piece for added storage.  Right now all I have is a pin with a pen hanging, but it can be used for so many other things.  Maybe more kitchen utensils???

Here is the result of my kitchen organization, with all the doors open…

Kitchen Organization: Ideas for storage on the inside of the kitchen cabinets by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Inside and out, I’m loving this space.

If you haven’t been following along with my blog from the beginning, you might not know that I redid the entire kitchen by hand (total down-and-dirty do it yourself) a little over 2 years ago.  It included painting cabinets, painting the countertop, adding backsplash tile, adding decorative brackets,and more.  See the before and after by clicking here.

I’m still on a path for more organization, but I feel one step closer to a more efficient space.  On to the next room…

I truly love using every square inch of a space.  Vertical surfaces often are forgotten as the ideal spot for storage.  If you use all the interiors of your kitchen cabinets, how much more could you store??  Ask yourself.

To gather even more unique, fun, and creative ideas for your indoor and outdoor Fall and Winter spaces, I would definitely suggest downloading the Lowe’s Creative Ideas app on the iphone and ipad.  I’m always checking out the FREE app for great seasonal + do-it-yourself inspiration.

Lowes Creative Idea Network Creator & Influencer

Also consider following Lowe’s on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram as well.

 Disclosure: I am part of the Lowe’s Creative Team and was provided with a Lowe’s gift card to purchase items for my project.  I was also compensated for my time to use the products.  No one told me what to create, what to buy, how to use the product, or what to write.  All opinions are 100% mine! Fall Blogger Badge 1

DIY: Drop Cloth Curtain Panels with Leading Edge Detail

I’ll be honest, none of the window curtain panels in my home cost more than $50.  Yet all are custom made.  Not by an uber-expensive fabricator, but by me.

Store-bought and/or custom-made curtain panels can be very pricey, but the same look (or better) can be achieved by making your own.  And guess what, it’s not difficult…

DIY: Drop Cloth Window Panels with Leading Edge Detail. High-end look for less than $20 to make. via @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

 

As the calendar turns and another Fall approaches, Lowe’s put The Team to the test this month to create a new window treatment for the home.  I was in need (well more like a want) of new window panels for the dining room, so I knew it was the perfect spot to get my craft on.

I desired something simple, so instead of stopping at the curtain aisle for a typical drape, I headed towards the paint aisle and landed in the drop cloth section.  confession: I can close my eyes and always find the drop cloth section… I’ve confessed my love for drop cloth before, but honestly it is The. Best. Material. hands down.  You can do so much with drop cloth material.  It’s not just for painters!!

Anyway, onto the new panels…

1. At Lowes, I chose a 6 ft. x 9 ft. size panel (about $10), then cut it in half to make (2) 3 ft. x 9 ft. pieces.

Drop Cloth

2. The panels are heavy enough, so I didn’t feel that a lining was needed, so I simply squared off the edges (drop cloth isn’t always perfectly straight), folded over the edges, and sewed all around.

DIY: Drop Cloth Curtain Panels

3. Once the panels were complete, it was time to add the decorative leading edge.  I chose a navy blue light cotton fabric which was the perfect contrasting complement to the lighter color of the drop cloth material.

And yes, that says $3 for the yard.  In all these panels cost about $13!

DIY: Drop Cloth Window Panels with Leading Edge Detail. High-end look for less than $20 to make. via @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COMThe color of the fabric is showing royal blue in this pic, but it is more navy in actuality.

4. I layed out the fabric length-wise and cut as many 4″ strips as I could.

DIY: Drop Cloth Window Panels with Leading Edge Detail. High-end look for less than $20 to make. via @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COMagain showing royal blue…  but it’s not.

5. Then I folded over the two side edges 1/2″ each and ironed the seam flat.

DIY: Drop Cloth Window Panels with Leading Edge Detail. High-end look for less than $20 to make. via @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COMThat’s the true color. I swear!

Sidenote: Because of the panel length (a typical panel can be from 84-96″ long), you may need to attach fabric strips to achieve one long strip. I did and before folding over and ironing the seam, I attached two strips and then I had enough length.  Once sewn, iron the seam flat.

DIY: Drop Cloth Window Panels with Leading Edge Detail. High-end look for less than $20 to make. via @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

6. Once the seams were ironed, it was time to attach the decorative edge to the drop cloth panel. I decided to have 1″ of drop cloth exposed, then add the navy blue accent.  I first pinned the navy fabric in place and sewed all along the edges using the same color thread.

DIY: Drop Cloth Window Panels with Leading Edge Detail. High-end look for less than $20 to make. via @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

DIY: Drop Cloth Window Panels with Leading Edge Detail. High-end look for less than $20 to make. via @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

And that’s it.  A high-end look for $13!

The result…

DIY: Drop Cloth Window Panels with Leading Edge Detail. High-end look for less than $20 to make. via @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

The panels are hung by clip rings and have slight puddle at the bottom.  They are the perfect addition for my dining space.

Other ideas + ways to achieve a high-end look for less…

  • You don’t have to use drop cloth to create a similar window curtain panel.  A similar detailed edge can be added to a store-bought curtain, similar to what I did in my daughter’s room.  In her space, I actually added the decorative fabric to the outside edge of the curtain panel instead of on top of the fabric.  The typical store-bought panel wasn’t long enough, but the added fabric made it the ideal length.

How-To Add Decorative Trim to Curtains {for cheap}

  • If you are using a thinner fabric to create a window panel and want to have a heavier panel that will allow less light to shine through, check out what I did in my bedroom.  Using drop cloth material (AGAIN), I took a regular weight cotton fabric and lined them.  Depending on the fabric pattern, a decorative edge could be added to these style panels as well.

DIY: How to Make Simple Lined Window Drapery Panels

Ideas are limitless for what you can create for your windows!

Thanks to Lowe’s, I was able to create my most recent creation for less than $15.  So next time your combing the paint aisle to grab some spray paint, don’t forget to check out the drop cloth section.  Your mind will go bonkers with all that can be created!

Excited for the Fall and ready to tackle some home improvement and DIY projects?  Lowe’s has it all.

Fall Badge Rectangle

Sign up for their free Lowe’s Creative Ideas Magazine, which is filled with ideas + inspiration!  Plus you can always follow them on Pinterest and Instagram for even more great ideas!

Disclosure: I am so grateful to be apart of the Lowe’s Creative Team and was provided with a Lowe’s gift card to purchase items for my project.  I was also compensated for my time to use the products.  No one told me what to create, what to buy, how to use the product, or what to write.  All opinions are 100% mine!

What have you made using drop cloth? Have you ever thought of jazzing up your window curtain panels to create a custom look?

 

DIY: Kids Play + Camping Tent

Happy July!

For me, it officially feels like Summer has begun.  The kids are out of school now for just about a week, and the Summer sun is setting in (despite all the rain we’ve been having).  The kids and I have been enjoying fun outings each day, while also spending some down-time at home just relaxing.  Often on those home-bound days, the hours creep by with boredom, so when Lowe’s put me up to the challenge this month to create something related to DIY camping, I thought of the perfect solution…

a kids play + camping tent.  They can use it as a tent to play in during the day, as well as a spot to sleep in once the sun sets and the stars peak.

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

The the best part about this tent is that it only took about $10 to make + 10 minutes to create!  I made two, so the cost and time were double.

Supplies for (1) Tent:

  • (4) 1 x 2 piece of wood at 42″ long ($2.16)
    • At Lowe’s I had them cut down (1) 1 x 2 x 8 which cost $1.08 into my (2) 42″ long pieces
  • (1) 3/4″ diameter dowel at 48″ long ($2.85)
  • 2.5 total yards of fabric ($2.25/yard x 2.5 = $5.63)
  • 1.5 total yards of ribbon (leftovers)
  • Drill with a 3/4″ drill bit

This tent is really easy to create, and what’s even better is that you can put it up and take it down very easily with each use.   I made it so it can be easily assembled and just as easy to disassemble for storage.  More on that later…

1. (2 minutes)

To start off, I drilled a 3/4″ hole at each end of the 1 x 2 piece of wood.  The Mister and I set up a “drilling station” by creating two piles of stacked wood so the 1 x 2 could bridge across the top.  As an alternative, you can drill through your piece of lumber with a scrap piece underneath.  Either method will work.

One hole of each piece will be for the peak of the tent, while the other hole will be for the ribbon to tie through.  Keep reading and it’ll all come together…

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

2. (1 minute)

Once the holes were drilled, I fed one end of the dowel through two of the 1 x 2’s, then fed the other end of the dowel through the other two 1 x 2’s.

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

Note: The drill bit size needs to match the dowel size, so it fits snug.  I used a 3/4″ dowel and a 3/4″ drill bit.  The dowel needs to be snug in the 1 x 2’s so it stays in place, yet is still easily adjustable.

And the frame was done!

Onto the fabric.

3. (2 minutes)

Many fabric comes in a 44/45″ width, so the sides don’t need to be hemmed (if you want to hem them you can, but I didn’t).  To start off, I folded over one end of the fabric and sewed.

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

4. (2 minutes)

I draped the fabric (with one finished edge) over the tent frame.  I lined up the finished edge side with the bottom of the legs, so I could determine how much needed to be trimmed off the other side – be sure to leave enough fabric to fold over and sew (about  1″ extra inch).

Using my Jar O’ Ribbons, I picked out 4 fun colors.

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

5. (2 minutes)

To secure the fabric to the frame,  I added ribbon.  I cut (4) 12-15″ long pieces of ribbon, and sewed the center of it to the right side of each corner using a fun stitch.

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

After cutting the loose threads, it was complete!

I draped the fabric over the dowel, attached the 4 ribbons through the 4 bottom holes, and secured. (1 minute)

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

And the dual play + camping tent was complete.

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

It’s just as easy to disassemble as it is to assemble!  Plus it folds right up to store away.  I put all the legs together, wrapped the fabric around them, and secured it at both ends with the attached ribbon.

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

The details.

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

My kids are having such a fun time with their new creations.

Day for Play…

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

And night for camping… (well kinda.  it didn’t last the whole night).

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

Either way, they are fun, easy to make, and are perfect for some Summer Fun!

Kids Play + Camping Tent - 10 dollars to make +10 minutes to create! Super simple creation that your kids will love!

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden

The warmer weather has got me movin’ and groovin’ outdoors.  This past weekend I got my DIY mojo on for this months Lowe’s challenge and created (what I think) is something pretty cool.  Check out my newly created Vertical Pallet Garden using colorful pots…

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Though the flowers are finally starting to peak through around the yard, I was in need of color NOW to start decorating my front porch for Spring.  I, of course, hit up my local Lowe’s garden center to get my color fix.  It’s still the early days of Spring, so the selection (at my local Lowe’s in NY) was limited, but I was able to find a few perennials for shaded areas that would be ideal for under the front covered porch.  I chose a few colorful perennials & vines because they could easily be transplanted to the garden at the end of the season (smart & savvy thinking).

Pallets have been all-the-rage for a while, but I just don’t get tired of them – probably because they’re free.  I’ve created so many DIY projects with pallets and I just love their old, worn texture and aesthetic.  When thinking about this seasons porch, my major desire was to add height.  Height = drama, and that was my goal. 

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

For this project, the materials I used were:

  • Pallet (which I snagged – with their permission of course – for free in the back on my local Lowe’s)
  • (4) Eye hooks for 100 lbs+
  • 3′ of metal chain
  • Plastic pots (I used lime green and turquoise from Lowe’s)
  • Drill with 1/4″ drill bit
  • 3″ S hooks (found in the outdoor section of Lowe’s)
  • Vise Grip

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Here’s the DL (downlow for short) on how I created the Vertical Pallet Garden

1. At the top of the pallet (slats oriented horizontally), screw in (1) eye hook at about 2-3″ in from each end. It’s best to start out by using a large nail to start the hole.  Once the hole is started, screw in the eye hooks with the help of a vise grip to get leverage.  Unless you’re the Hulk, it’ll probably be impossible with just your bare hands.

2. With the Misters help, we then unlinked one of the chain links and linked it through the eye hook. (one side only – the other side has to wait until hung)

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

3. Heading over to the house, we installed the eye hooks (using a drill to start the hole) through the siding and into the house about 2″ below the ceiling plane at the same distance apart as the hooks in the pallet.

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

4. Once the eye hooks were in, we took the loose end of the chain of the pallet, slipped it through the eye hooks, and secured the chain on the other side.

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

The pallet base is complete!

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Then it was time to create the “garden”.

5. Using varying sized plastic pots in fun colors, drill a 1/4″ hole about 1″ down from the top rim. Using a 3″+/- S hook, slip it through the hole.

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

6. Plant the pretty flowers…

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

…And it was complete!

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

The vertical pallet garden adds so much color to the front porch.

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

S-hooks make it easy to move the flower pots around or bring them into the sun.

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

A beautiful focal point for the porch.

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

If you’re wondering about the pretty white wreath, that was a DIY project that was featured on Jen’s blog.  It was created for Valentine’s Day, but I took off the paint chip flowers and just hung the wreath plain and simple.  Who knows how I will transform it for another holiday or season to come.

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

I’m still working on the rest of the porch since it’s still in need of more color and pizazz.  By late May, I hope to have that done and ready to share.  Right now we’re still getting alot of rain and most nights are still way too chilly to get my gardening-on.

DIY: Vertical Pallet Garden by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

I couldn’t be more thrilled with the outcome of this fun and easy DIY project.  It’s brought gorgeous height and beautiful color to my Spring front porch.

To see more creations of mine using pallets, click on the links below:
How-To Make a Pallet Shelf
Monogrammed Pallet Chevron Tray
Pallet Picture Holder
Eclectic Family Gallery Wall

Disclosure: I am part of the Lowe’s Creative Team and was provided with a Lowe’s gift card to purchase items for my project.  I was also compensated for my time to use the products.  No one told me what to create, what to buy, how to use the product, or what to write.  All opinions are 100% mine!

  • 1
  • 2