House Tour: Emmett’s Room

Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. When it’s cool enough to open up the windows during the day without the a/c kicking on and wearing jeans without sweating through them. Summer lasts a long time in the Charleston so I really look forward to these small pleasures when fall arrives. My only issue is that is goes by too quickly and instead of cool breezes it’s freezing before you know it which I’m much less a fan of. So this weekend with all the windows open letting in that refreshing fall air, I put the final touches on Emmett’s room. I’m pretty proud of this one because it’s the first bedroom in the house that feels complete. 

Emmett is 8 going on 15, so I wanted to decorate his room in a style that wasn’t too childish but still had some fun elements. He loves the outdoors and traveling so I found a bunch of old travel pennants on EBay to hang on the wall behind his bed. This is the largest wall in his room so I painted it a deep green, Still Searching, which I love, and left the three remaining walls a light cream color. 

I built these floating shelves using these brackets (small size fits the 8" boards) from Hobby Lobby (they seem to go 50% off every other week so if they aren’t on sale today, wait a week)  and 1- 8’x8”x1” cut in half to make the two 48” shelves. I just sanded, stained, and hung them up. Easy-peasy. This was a super affordable and easy way to create shelves where Emmett can display his LEGO creations. 

I bought these canoe and national parks vintage posters online but didn’t want to tack them to the wall so made the poster hangers using 2- 5’ wooden slats I cut to 24” and 36", then stained to match the shelves. I tried magnets at first but they didn’t hold so I ended up hot gluing the slats to the front and back, top and bottom of each poster then added eye hooks to the top which I strung through with a piece of leather cord. 

national parks map poster

Emmett loves his new room and is ready to start visiting the national parks so he can check them off and get new pennants from places he visits. 

Below are a few more shots of his room. Hope you enjoyed this room tour! More photos and sources are below.

-Jessica

pillow covers | duvet cover | swing arm wall sconce

canoes poster

curtains | vintage pennants

 

DIY Porch Leaning Welcome Sign- Tips on Getting Crisp Edges with Vinyl Stencils

Have you ever used a stencil of cut vinyl only to have the paint bleed through and ruin what should have been crisp lines? Well I've figured out how to fix this issue and thought I'd share an easy fix to this problem as I go over how I created a porch leaning Welcome sign.

I bought a porch leaning sign from Hobby Lobby after Easter at 75% off, so with only $6 invested I was fine with how it looked since it had ‘Welcome’ on one side and ‘Happy Easter’ on the other. I displayed the ‘Welcome’ side over the summer but with fall right around the corner I wanted something that could change with the seasons and be less country and more my style. I found a black and white sign on Pinterest which served as the inspiration for changing up what I had and turning it into what I envisioned. I wanted to share my process in case you too are interested in creating a sign that can be used year-round. 

As I stated, I used a prefabricated leaning sign. It measures 60” tall by 9” wide. You could easily and cheaply cut a piece of inexpensive lumber to size which could be used for this project. If so, make sure you sand before painting. 

First off, I cleaned my sign since it had been outside and had some dirt on it. Next, I painted the entire front black using a small paint roller. I had a sample quart of SW Tricorn (black) left over from another project so this is what I used. I applied 3 coats allowing a couple hours of drying time between each coat. If you’re not painting over a preprinted sign, 1 to 2 coats is probably sufficient.

Once the black is good and dry, I waited 24 hours between the final coat of paint and applying the vinyl stencil. I cut out my stencil using my Cricut Explore 2. For this project is cut out 2 laurel leaves, ‘Welcome to Our’, ‘H’, ‘M’, ‘E’, and stripes.

I applied the stencil to the sign and taped around the stencil to cover any exposed areas that could accidentally get painted. In order to get crisp edges when using vinyl as a stencil, you want to apply a coat of Mod Podge to the stenciled area prior to painting. I use a foam brush to apply the Mod Podge. Allow the Mod Podge to dry completely, then paint in your stenciled area. **This coat of Mod Podge is the secret to getting crisp lines when using vinyl stencil, so do not forget this step.**

I used a foam brush to dab the paint onto the stencil. I used acrylic craft paint for both the white and green applying two coats of each color allowing the paint to dry for a couple of hours between each coat. Once the final coat is dry gently removed your vinyl stencils. Finally, apply a coat of Mod Podge to the entire sign. 

Your sign is done but now it’s time to create a mini seasonal sign to represent the ‘O’ in ‘HOME’. Since fall is right around the corner, I decided to go with a pumpkin. Using a 10” wood round which can be found here, I drew out the shape based on the size of the open area on the sign which happens to be around 8.5” x 8.5”. I painted the sign before cutting it out. Next time I will sketch my shape, cut out, and then paint. I used a jigsaw to cut out the pumpkin but since the wood I used is thin it split and splintered into areas that I’d painted. I sanded the shape to smooth it all out, then repainted the areas that had splintered. 

I applied Command Velcro strips to the back of the pumpkin then applied it to my sign. All I’ll have to do for my next seasonal mini sign is affix new Command strips to the large sign and press the mini sign into place. This should make it easy to add new signs as well as reuse old ones. 

I really enjoyed creating this sign and I’m looking forward to making new mini signs for it as the seasons change. Let me know if you have any questions and please share your projects with me if you decide to make your own seasonal porch sign. I’d love to see them!

Happy crafting,

Jessica

Half Bath Refresh

As I sit home for weeks and weeks and weeks trying my best to teach my littles while also trying to work, my my mind has been racing thinking about all the things I could be doing around my house. There’s so much potential and so many projects I want to get started and the longer I’m trapped here the more projects I come up with. Do you have any idea how frustrating it is to be home but not have the time or ability to take advantage of this homebound time? I’m pulling my hair out over here.

I’ve decided to make a list and each week try to complete one project to be checked off my list. I love making lists and find it very satisfying to check things off. I’m a dork like that. That leads me to my post because.... I checked off an item!!! I will pause the applause. 

My downstairs half bath is done. This is actually the first room I’ve “completed” since we moved into this house so I’m pretty jazzed with how it turned out. I painted the walls with Sherwin Williams Seasalt which is a very nice light color with hints of gray, blue and green depending on the light. It’s a great neutral that’s not white or gray. 

Before

After

I also switched out the plain pedestal sink for the Larissa wall mounted vanity in white washed oak which I picked up at Home Depot on super sale. I love that it has drawer where I can store extra toilet paper and other bathroom necessities; something that was lacking with only having a pedestal sink previously. Added this new matte black faucet, then painted the hardware on the sink along with my towel and toilet paper holders with this satin black spray paint. I love how they turned out. Satin black spray may be my new favorite thing. I’ve been spraying everything with it to give dull outdated items a fresh new look. Sorry for the detour, back to the bathroom. 

Before

After

The biggest and most difficult part of the redo were the floors. The tile was blah but I didn’t want to rip it up so I decided to try my hand at painting and stenciling the tile. I’d seen some beautiful results online and figured it was worth a shot. I love the way it turned out but let me tell you, it was not as easy as the tutorials I’d read led me to believe.  It took me three weeks working on and off to finish. I’m thankful that my husband and boys were so patient while this room was under construction. I may do a post of how I did it and what I’d do differently if I were to do it all over if there’s any interest because, as I said, I love the results and might try it again under different conditions. The stencil I used is the 12” Kerala stencil from Cutting Edge Stencils. The painted tile method is pretty inexpensive compared to replacing tile just be prepared to spend more time on this project. 

I finished off the room with accessories from Hobby Lobby and a new light fixture from Lowe’s which I spray painted parts of with my fave satin black to tie together the black hardware and faucet with the gold mirror. 

Here are a few more pictures of this space. It may be small but it’s so satisfying to have this one done. One project down, 999 left to go. 

tissue holder | faucet

Feeling Peachy

This time of year always reminds me of summers spent at my grandparent’s house. They had a garden, a variety of fruit trees, and lots of scuppernong vines. Considering how much stimulation my children require, they would have thought how I spent my summers when I was their age as boring but I loved it. I'd go for long walks each morning with my grandma, then we'd pick corn, beans, and cucumbers, we'd shell beans, can tomatoes, pick apples and pears, and then I'd watch as she'd cook up something amazing. These experiences with my grandma created memories I will always cherish. She taught me that cooking was a fun, creative activity with delicious outcomes.

So when summer rolls around I like to take advantage of all the fresh fruits and vegetables which are at their peak. I love fresh fruit and vegetables, and even attempt to grow my own. Although I’m not the farmer my grandad was, I try. So far this summer I've grown plenty of cucumbers, three tomatoes, and lots of basil. The deer keep eating my bell peppers and most of my tomatoes, while my zucchini refuses produce anything. My tiny garden is a teaching me a lot of what not to do next year. Thank goodness for all the local farmers who know what they're doing and keep me stocked in fresh fruits and veggies.

One of favorite summertime fruits is the peach. Contrary to popular belief, South Carolina is the peach capital of South producing twice as many peaches as our Georgia neighbors. I know a good peach when I taste one and a ripe, juicy peach is pretty much perfection. How does one elevate a peach? Look no further than the perfect peach cobbler. Top that peach cobbler off with vanilla ice cream and you’ll have something so good you it will leave you speechless. If you've been looking for the perfect peach cobbler recipe then you'll have to give this one a shot. You won’t regret it. 

Perfect Peach Cobbler

Ingredients:

• 3 cups peaches, fresh or canned, halved then quartered
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• pinch of salt
• dash of nutmeg
• dash of cinnamon
• non-stick cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 2 quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Spread sliced peaches evenly into the prepared dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, mix the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla until well combined. 
4. Mix flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a separate bowl until combined.
5. Stir the flour mixture into the sugar and egg mixture until just combined. The batter will be thick with a consistency similar to that of cookie dough. 
6. Spread batter over the peaches evenly trying to cover the peaches as best you can.
7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown. 
8. Remove from oven and let sit 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy on its own or ice cream or whipped cream. Prepare to have your taste buds rejoice! 

China Cabinet Remodel

Anyone else scroll fb marketplace on the regular looking for their next project? I usually have a few items in mind that I hunt for but I'm not in a rush. I’m typically looking for the right piece at the right price. I overlook bad paint and outdated style, and actually focus on these shortcomings because these pieces are typically overlooked, besides I’m on the hunt to remake the piece to my liking. If you’re diligent you can get pieces with lots for potential for a little dinero. 

For example, take my newest remodel. I bought this china cabinet for $50. I didn’t care for the orangish wood or the knobs but saw it had potential. 

I wanted to paint it to coordinate with the chandelier in my dining room that is black with natural shades and gold accents. 

For paint, I used Heirloom Traditions All-in-One paint in Iron Gate. This is my third project using this paint line, so I thought I’d share my process. The All-in-One paint is great for this type of project. It’s a chalk based paint that includes a primer and sealer so you don’t have to do those steps, hence all-in-one. It comes in 31 colors and has a low luster, matte sheen and smooth finish. 

Tools:

• Deglosser
• Clean towel
• Pint of Heritage Traditions All-in-one Paint 
• Brush, oval synthetic fiber 
• Applicator sponge

Process:

• Remove the glass, doors, and all hardware.
• Prep all surfaces that will be painted by cleaning them well with deglosser. Liquid sandpaper or Krud Kutter work as well. Apply the deglosser to the wood with the synthetic brush. Let it sit for a minute or two and then wipe the area clean using a clean, dry towel. You can use a scrub brush on harder to clean areas. Clean the entire piece and make sure it is dry before proceeding to the next step. 
• Apply a generous amount of the All-in-One paint using a clean synthetic brush working quickly in small areas. 

I like to work a two square foot area by applying paint using the brush then go over the brushed area with the applicator sponge to dapple the paint and remove the stroke marks. The paint should self-level.

 

• This paint dries quickly so it is best to work in a room without circulating air, that is too warm, or any condition that may speed up the drying process. Repeat this process over the entire piece. The first coat will not be perfect but that’s okay because by second coat it will start looking nice. 
• Next, allow time for the first coat to fully dry. It says two hours but I typically wait at least twelve hours. Apply your second coat in the same manner as the first, working quickly to apply paint and dapple. You do not want to overwork any one area or paint may come off. If this happens, allow the area to fully dry before repainting. 
• For this piece I only had to apply two coats of paint. Lighter colors may require 3 or more coats of paint. Once the final coat of paint has dried completely, again I’d wait another 12 hours, add hardware and doors. 
• For this piece I also added this peel and stick wallpaper to the inside back wall of the china cabinet.

I replaced the hardware with these brushed gold knobs. 

I hope this little tutorial helps you complete your project and reassures you that you can refinish furniture quickly and beautifully. 

Now I’ve got to figure out what I want to put in here. It will be nice to free up some space in my kitchen cabinets and I may take my wedding china out of hiding and actually use it. 

Feel free to post comments or questions. 

Quarantine Baking: Chocolate Cherry Blondies

It feels like we’re on day 649 of quarantine, and I have no idea what day or month it is. Everyday just seems to blend into one reoccurring day. Like Bill Murray in Groundhog Day, I am living the same day over and over, the only difference is time is passing. While it feels like it should still be March, half the year has passed. How is it July already?

Well now that I’ve gotten that off my chest, how are y’all handling our current predicament? 

Me and my boys, the hubs included, are getting lots of bonding time so there have been lots of board games and a little too much tv. The other day Emmett mentioned that he wanted to take a cooking class and I jumped at the opportunity to take him up on this. We knew we wanted something sweet with basic ingredients that was simple enough that an 8 year old could make it. I searched Pinterest and came across this recipe from Averie Cooks for Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars. Her recipe was easy to throw together and the outcome is delicious. I added pecans and definitely recommend doing so if you have any on hand. This is a great base recipe so you could add any in number of things such as shredded coconut or any nuts you prefer. I used fresh cherries and think they work best as frozen may result in a soggier blondie. Emmett favorite part was shooting the pits out of the cherries using this pitter.

 

CHOCOLATE CHERRY BLONDIES

      Ingredients

• 
  

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, optional
  • 3/4 to 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 cup, cherries, pitted and halved (fresh is recommended)
  • Instructions
    Preheat oven to 350F. Prep an 8-by-8-inch pan (or loaf pan, mine is 5-by-8-inch) with nonstick cooking spray. 
    Stir melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Add egg and vanilla to sugar butter mixture and stir until well combined.  
    Next, add in the flour and salt, stir until just combined. It will be thick like cookie dough. 
    Fold in chocolate chips, cherries, and pecans into batter. Pour batter into prepared pan.
  • Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until edges begin to slightly pull away from sides of pan and center.  
  
  
  While it may be very difficult to wait, allow bars to cool before slicing. Store in an airtight container.
•  
  
  
  These blondies are delicious on their own, but serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla icecream a la mode to really take them to the next level. 
  
  
  
  
  Let me know if you make these and what you think. I hope you all stay healthy and enjoy this time with your family. While it may seem stressful, we are building memories with our kids that they will treasure for a lifetime. They won’t care about the shows they watched but they will remember the experiences you created and time spent together.