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Popular Behr Beige Paint Colors for a Warm Aesthetic

Linda McDonald — Sat, 14 Jan 2023 10:45:00 +0000

Is beige coming back in style? Are you looking for beige paint colors? We will answer these questions with the most popular Behr beige paint colors.

For over a year, a rumor has been going around that the color beige is coming back in style. But I wonder if it has ever completely gone out of style? I know in our house I decided to keep some beige rooms. Personally, I think beige and gray look beautiful together and make a lovely neutral color scheme.

So with all these questions and thoughts, I want to introduce you to the most popular Behr beige paint colors, talk about their undertone, LRV, and the best places to use the color.

This article will include white colors with warm undertones and beige colors that contrast nicely with white colors like these in my best Behr white paint colors.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

Popular Behr Beige Paint Colors

So what do you think has shifted the decor from cool to warm tones? In recent years, farmhouse decor and matte finish cool colored paints were the trend. Then last year, Cottagecore decor came onto the stage with its cozy maximalist designs and moody tones. I personally think warm paint color palette was re-birthed from Cottagecore, as well as other designs.

You can see how it looks with these dreamy Cottagecore bedroom ideas.

But warm colors have never left us, all the farmhouse decor just played them down, white painted shiplap walls and so on, and since they are back as a great option, here are the top colors to make selecting your paint color much easier.

Blank Canvas
Swiss Coffee
Antique white
Off white
Navajo White
Linen white
Cottage white
Spanish sand
Even Better Beige
Aged Beige
Sentimental Beige

Because Behr paint has been a more recent favorite paint brand choice, I have only used it several times so in this post, I will be sharing one of the colors I have used in my home and then cross reference some Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore colors that look similar to these Behr beige colors.

I hope you love these beige neutral colors. Let's find your new perfect color!

Project Tips:

LRV – You'll read the term LRV throughout the post. It stands for Light Reflectance Value. The highest LRV is 100. The higher the number, the more light will reflect from the color. A high LRV is a highly reflective white and is great for a small room or a room that you want to be bright and sunny.
RGB – RGB is the amount of red, blue, and green in each color. The colors with higher red levels will have warm tones, and a higher blue will be a cooler white.
Paint Delivery: Did you know you can select your BEHR® Paint online and have it shipped to your door? If you plan ahead, this will save you so much time because your paint will arrive in the mail. Consider purchasing other supplies like paintbrushes and trays at the same time.
Curbside Pickup: Add the paint to your Home Depot cart on the app when you decide on your paint color. Order the paint on the app for car delivery at the store. You will save yourself so much time and frustration from waiting in line at the paint counter. (Order a day or two in advance. Because of staff shortages, sometimes it takes a couple of days to get notified that your order is ready.)
Trim Paint Colors: When picking paint for your whole house, I recommend you pick the same trim color throughout your whole house. It is a great way to keep your home's appearance consistent and make your life easier.

Blank Canvas by Behr

Let's start with looking at the white colors with a warm undertone.

This photo is a little darker than the color appears in person, but Blank Canvas is one of my new favorite creamy white colors, and it was Behr Paint's color of the year. With an LRV of 84, it has a color balance of R 241 G 237 B 225 giving it a creamy undertone, this is a gorgeous light color with a warm neutral undertone. Anything above 90 is pretty bright, making this white a nice calming warm white. You can see how I used it when I turned my closet into a pantry.

Blank Canvas is a popular color for a reason. This is a great paint color for interior walls, trim, ceiling, furniture – just about everywhere!

Behr Swiss Coffee

Swiss coffee by Behr is so similar to Blank Canvas that you probably cannot tell when they are painted side by side. I love this color also, and it is very similar to Alabaster by Sherwin Williams, which I used in my niece's home.

Because this paint color is another warm white, we used it in her guest bathroom. Look how lovely it turned out. This is a great paint color for walls, trim, ceiling, floors, and more. It even works great as an exterior paint.

The LRV, light reflective value on this color is also 84, making it a nice warm color but still bright enough to look great in small spaces and nicely reflect natural light. It has a color balance of R 241 G 237 B 224. If you want a white color with a beige undertone, this is your color but if you want a more beige-beige color, then keep reading because I have some beautiful ones to share.

Swiss Coffee is great for walls, trim, doors, furniture, accent walls, cabinets, ceilings, and exterior.

Behr Antique White

Antique white has a little more color and shows an even warmer white look. It is a beautiful warm neutral paint color. It is similar to Benjamin Moore Bone White, and here is an example in my living room.

I love this color because it gives just a hint of contrast up again a white white color like ultra pure white by Behr. The LRV is 73, so it's a nice warm shade. The color balance is R 232 G 221 B 202. With the higher red balance, it's a warm and cozy color.

Great places to use this color are walls, trim, doors, cabinets, exterior, and furniture.

Off White by Behr

Off white is similar to antique white by Behr but ever so slightly darker. I have a paint color in my hallway that looks very similar to off white so you can get an idea of what it will look like in your home.

Off White has a LRV of 76, so it's a little brighter than Antique White. With a color balance of R 231 G 226 B 210, it's heavier on the reds and greens, so it has a warm undertone.

The best places to use this color are walls, doors, cabinets, exterior, and furniture.

Frequently asked questions:

What is the most popular beige paint color?

The most popular beige paint color is by Sherwin Williams called Accessible Beige. After years of designing homes, this color is selected more than any other beige color.

Is Behr Aged Beige warm or cool?

Aged Beige by Behr is a beautiful color with a warm undertone. If you look at the color numbers, it is high on red, then green, and a much lower blue, making it a nice warm neutral.

What are the most popular Behr beige paint colors?

In my research for the best Behr beige paint colors, I found that the beige colors on the whiter side are used the most. For example, Blank Canvas and Swiss Coffee are white colors with a beige undertone. But if you are looking for the most popular Behr beige color with a deeper value, I see Aged Beige and Even Better Beige trending.

Navajo White

Navajo White has a color balance of R 235 G 222 B 196. That very low blue score means it has very warm and yellow undertones. The LRV of 74 means it's not very light reflective, adding to the warmth of this color. Navajo White is great for walls, cabinetry, and furniture.

Linen White

Linen White is also in the white color family.

Has a whiter look with a LRV of 85. The color balance of R 247 G 237 B 216 means it's not as beige-y as some of these colors, but it still has a warmer tone. It's great for walls and ceilings.

Cottage White

Cottage white is also in the white color family with a higher LRV of 82.

With a color balance of R 243 G 233 B 214 it has nice warm undertones that are great for walls, furniture, cabinets, and exteriors.

Spanish Sand

Spanish Sand is still considered a white color, but it's right on the cusp of a true beige.

With an LRV 64 you're getting more depth of color. With a color balance of R 220 G 208 B 189, Spanish Sand is great for walls, cabinetry, trim, and furniture.

Even Better Beige

This beige paint color is admired so much until Behr made it a paint color of the month in 2022. Even Better Beige is so similar to Accessible Beige by Sherwin Williams, and if you know anything about Sherwin Williams paint, then you know this is one of their top colors. Knowing that makes me think no wonder Even Better Beige is popular.

Photo courtesy: Jenna Sue Design

With an LRV of 60, it's a warm and cozy color. The color balance of R 212 G 202 B 186 makes it a really pretty light beige. To help give you an idea of what it will look like in your home, here is a photo of Jenna Sue Designs‘ bathroom. Look how pretty and warm this color is on the walls.

The best places to use Even Better Beige are walls, doors, furniture, cabinets, and exterior.

Aged Beige

Aged Beige is in the neutral color family. This one is a very pleasant beige color with an LRV of 63.

With a color balance of R 215 G 207 B 192, it will make your room feel warm and cozy. walls, trim, exterior, furniture, and cabinets. If you use this on a ceiling, keep in mind it will make the ceiling feel lower. So if, for example, you have very high ceilings in your dining room and want to make the room feel cozier, Aged Beige is a perfect choice.

Sentimental Beige

Sentimental Beige is more of a greige color, which means it has grey and beige put together. It has an LRV of 69, so it's a nice warm color with a deeper look that isn't too dark but not too white.

With a color balance of R 224 G 216 B 197, it's heavier on the red tones, so it has a little bit of red undertones but not too much. walls, trim, cabinetry, exterior, floors, and furniture. We'll talk more about the best greige paint colors in a new post soon!

Final Thoughts

Did you find the perfect new paint color for your home from these popular Behr beige paint colors? Whatever you consider to be your perfect shade, your home will feel warm and cozy. I think you'll see that beige will become more and more popular. If you have any of these colors in your own home, I'd love to hear about it in the comments. Let me know what color, where you used it, and what you think of it.

Happy Decorating!

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How to Make a Pom Pom Wreath with Yarn (4 Simple Steps)

Linda McDonald — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 10:45:00 +0000

Here is step by step instructions on how to make a pom pom wreath. This tutorial is for a mini pompom wreath, but you can easily make this in larger sizes.

For many years I have been sharing yarn decorations for your home. The first yarn decor idea I shared was probably how to make a pom pom garland. It was so easy to make and looked adorable with everyday decor and holiday decor. DIY wreaths are so fun and easy to personalize.

Pom poms are easy to make, and you can make your own form or purchase one from Amazon. Once you learn how to make a pom pom there are so many ways you can use them for decor. You can make them into tassels, use them as decorations on presents, fill a bowl with them, and so on. They are such a fun craft project.

But today, let's talk about how to make a mini yarn pom pom wreath, and later, I will share ideas of where you can decorate with your mini pom pom wreath.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

How to Make a Pom Pom Wreath

With all the wonderful craft or DIY projects, I recommend gathering supplies. Most of these supplies I picked up at the dollar store or you can find them at a craft store.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

Wire wreath frame (I found mine at Dollar Tree)
Yarn
Pom Pom maker (You can make them by hand too, and I have directions on how to make a pom pom garland post.)
Scissors (new scissors cut the best or ones that are only used for fabric)
Embroidery scissors
Twine
Ribbon (I used a light grey blue 1/2″ velvet ribbon that is not available anymore)
Glue gun (optional)

Step 2: Make Pom Poms

Did I mention this is an easy DIY pom pom wreath and a fun project to do while watching a good movie? There are just a few simple steps.

First, let's make your pom poms. I am making small size poms and using white yarn. I want a pom pom wreath that I can change the ribbon for different holidays and seasons. You can use different colors of yarn; it's up to you.

How to Use a Pom-Pom Maker?

First step, open the form and wrap yarn around each side of the form all the way around.
Next, close the form into a circle.
Then cut the yarn around the outside circle of the pom pom maker
Cut a piece of twine long enough to go around the circle and long enough to tie into a knot.
Now take the string and tie it as tight as you can around the pom pom form.

Once you have tied the string, you can pull the sides out and then pull the form apart. Some forms are tight, so you have to give it a good pull.
Next, take your scissors and groom your pom pom if it has any pieces of yarn sticking out. Sharp scissors will make this easier. Then you are all done except you need to make many more.

Step 3: Tie Pom Poms to Wreath Frame

Now here's the fun part! For the next step, take the first of your yarn poms and tie it to the frame in a knot. Then cut the ends of the twine. Repeat this step until you have filled the wire wreath form with pom poms.

Here is a tip on what direction to add the pom poms. I attached the pom poms to the outside wires first and then the inside. You'll have a gorgeous pom pom wreath in no time.

Step 4: Tie Ribbon to Wreath

Last, make a bow with your ribbon for your fluffy pom pom wreath. I made a bow with long ears and long tails. I love the look of a long droopy bow!

Basically, make two long ears and tie them together, and you have a bow. This is a fun way to change up the look of your cute wreath.

There are several ways you can attach your ribbon to your wreath. You can tie your ribbon with floral wire and stick the wire through the yarn balls and attach it to the wreath. Or you can tie your ribbon around the yarn wreath frame. I placed some twine through the bow and tied it to the frame with a double knot at the top.

Another idea is to glue your ribbon on it with your hot glue gun for extra security. If you are not planning to change your ribbon, this would be an easy way to adhere the ribbon bow to the yarn ball wreath.

Well, guess what? This project is all done — yay!! This is such a fun wreath. Now let's style this wreath after answering a few questions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long does it take to make a pom pom wreath?

The amount of time all depends on the size. A mini pom pom wreath takes one day or about 4 to 5 hours. A larger size yarn ball wreath can take two days and up to 8 to 10 hours.

How many pom poms do you need to make a wreath?

It all depends on the size of the wreath, but if you are making a mini pom pom wreath you will need about 40 pom poms to fill the entire wreath. Larger-size wreaths need as many as 50 to 90 pom poms.

What is the easiest way to make a pom pom?

Yarn pom poms are so easy to make, and there are various pom pom-making forms you can use to make them. Probably the easiest is to purchase a pom pom maker. You can also use your hand to wrap the yarn around or make a form with cardboard.

You will need yarn, wreath form, scissors, and pom pom maker. Other items you might need are floral wire or glue gun.

Final Thoughts

Remember me saying in the beginning that there are so many yarn decorating ideas? Well, here are more home decor yarn projects. I have some macrame mixed in too. If you love yarn decorations as much as I do, then you will like these yarn craft decor posts too:

Now let's talk about where I plan to hang my pom pom wreath. I have a mirror in my entryway that has a crack in it, so I like to hang wreaths on it to distract from the crack. This wreath was planned to hang on the mirror, but when I started testing it out in different places, I loved how it looked on the cutting boards hanging in my kitchen. I think it's a perfect winter pom pom wreath.

I love the contrast of the soft fluffy pom poms against the rough used breadboard and cutting board. But you might be wondering how did I hang this wreath. Well, I cut another piece of yarn, threaded it through the back of the frame, and then tied it to the hook. Easy peasy!

Making this yarn wreath motivated me to finish my decor in this room. All the Christmas had recently come down, and it felt a little empty. So now everything feels cozy again.

Last, here is a side view so you can get an idea from all angles.

Other ideas on where to hang a yarn wreath are on the back of chairs for a special dinner. You can hang them on a wall over a fireplace or a gallery wall. This yarn wreath would also be cute on a range hood or in a window.

There are so many places you can hang a yarn pom pom wreath. Where are you thinking of hanging your own pom pom wreath? Do you have any fun crafts with yarn to share? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Happy Decorating!

Yield: 1

How to Make a Pom Pom Wreath

Here is step by step instructions on how to make a pom pom wreath. This tutorial is for a mini pompom wreath, but you can easily make this in larger sizes.

Active Time 4 hours

Total Time 4 hours

Difficulty Easy

Materials

Instructions

First step, open the form and wrap yarn around each side of the form all the way around.
Next, close the form into a circle.
Then cut the yarn around the outside circle of the pom pom maker
Cut a piece of twine long enough to go around the circle and long enough to tie into a knot.
Now take the string and tie it as tight as you can around the pom pom form.
Once you have tied the string, you can pull the sides out and then pull the form apart. Some forms are tight, so you have to give it a good pull.
Next, take your scissors and groom your pom pom if it has any pieces of yarn sticking out. Sharp scissors will make this easier. Then you are all done except you need to make many more.
Take the first of your yarn poms and tie it to the frame in a knot.
Cut the ends of the twine. Repeat this step until you have filled the wire wreath form with pom poms.
Last, make a bow with your ribbon for your fluffy pom pom wreath. I made a bow with long ears and long tails.

Notes

Here is a tip on what direction to add the pom poms. I attached the pom poms to the outside wires first and then the inside. You'll have a gorgeous pom pom wreath in no time.
There are several ways you can attach your ribbon to your wreath. You can tie your ribbon with floral wire and stick the wire through the yarn balls and attach it to the wreath. Or you can tie your ribbon around the yarn wreath frame. I placed some twine through the bow and tied it to the frame with a double knot at the top.
Another idea is to glue your ribbon on it with your hot glue gun for extra security. If you are not planning to change your ribbon, this would be an easy way to adhere the ribbon bow to the yarn ball wreath.
A mini pom pom wreath takes one day or about 4 to 5 hours. A larger size yarn ball wreath can take two days and up to 8 to 10 hours.
If you are making a mini pom pom wreath you will need about 40 pom poms to fill the entire wreath. Larger-size wreaths need as many as 50 to 90 pom poms.

The post How to Make a Pom Pom Wreath with Yarn (4 Simple Steps) appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

How to Paint Your TV Frame

Linda McDonald — Sat, 10 Dec 2022 10:45:00 +0000

After years of putting off adding a frame to my flat screen TV I finally decided to paint the plastic frame and it turned out amazing! So today I am sharing how to paint your TV frame (mine is a vintage frame style) and where to find art on YouTube for your television.

Years ago we invested in a flat screen TV and mounted it on the wall above a pretty piece of furniture. There it sat centerstage on one wall of our living room — a big black box. Even though it doesn't lend much to our home decor we sure do enjoy it.

I have pondered ways to make it fit into our decor and for years planned to make a frame for it. A beautiful frame would be perfect and then I could make art on my YouTube channel to go inside of it. It would be ideal when I shoot photos and videos for the blog or having a party with guests over this wall would look so much better.

But then one day I had an idea so I mustered up the courage and painted the frame on my TV. This is my first time trying this and it turned out so much better than I ever imagined.

So today I am sharing step by step how to paint your TV frame. What you'll see here is modeled from a Samsung frame TV. I was inspired when looking at the Samsung frame TVs.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

Can you Paint TV Frames?

Yes! I was surprised to find out you can paint a TV frame. It's easier than you'd think and it only takes a few simple supplies.

How to Paint Your TV Frame

Gather Your Supplies

The first step in all DIY projects is to gather your supplies. Here's what you need to make your TV frame look like a picture frame. The great thing is that it doesn't cost much money.

Cleaner like Windex
Painter's tape
Fine grit sanding block
Paper towels (damp to remove grit and clean tv)
Artist paint brush
Outdoor acrylic paint (DecoArt Outdoor Acrylic Color Splendid Gold)
Rub ‘n Buff
Brown wax (Dixie Belle is what I used)
Double-sided foam tape (I found mine at Dollar Tree)
Soft cloth to remove wax (or use an old sock as I did)
Wood ornate corner embellishment

1. Clean your TV

The first thing you're going to want to do is clean your TV well. I used paper towels and Windex. Be sure to clean the whole thing; the TV screen in addition to the frame.

2. Tape the Inside

The next step is to use painter's tape to tape off the inside of the screen to ensure you don't get any paint on the screen. As you put the tape on, be sure to get it as tight against the frame as possible. If you can, and depending on the frame fit, it's a great option to push the tape down inside of the frame. Along the other side of the tape you can lightly attach it to the screen.

Side note – turn the TV on so you have a greater contrast between the screen and the frame. It will make things much easier.

3. Sand the Frame and Remove the Grit

Next, take your sanding block and rough up the each flat surface of the frame and the side. Once you've sanded all four sides, use a damp rag or paper towel to remove any grit.

Take your time with this prep work as it will make the rest of the project go much more smoothly.

4. Paint the frame with three coats of outdoor acrylic

Before you start painting, look for any clear part on the frame that may be where your remote communicates with your TV sensor. It's usually on the bottom of the TV but it could be at the top of the TV. Be sure to avoid painting over that area.

Here's a tip – one of the best ways to save time is to use a primer before you start painting. I didn't do that and it took more coats of paint to cover the black of the frame than it would have if I had primed it first.

I'm going to use a gold outdoor acrylic paint to paint the TV frame. I am going for a vintage frame look. It goes on thinly so you'll need to add multiple coats. Let each coat dry for 15-20 minutes before adding the next coat.

Here's a tip – once you finish painting a side of your TV frame, it's a great idea to take your paint brush and run it in one long stroke along the side to blend the paint.

While the paint on your TV frame dries, you can use the time to paint the embellishments that will go along the corners of your TV. I have ornate pieces of wood for each corner and will paint them with several coats of the gold outdoor acrylic paint just like I am doing with the TV frame.

5. Paint Rub ‘n Buff (if you want an antique look)

After three coats of paints have dried, I'm going to put Rub n' Buff over the gold. To do this, I simply put the Rub ‘n Buff on a paper plate and, using the same paint brush, dab it into the Rub ‘n Buff and then wipe it over the gold paint. You'll do this to the embellishments and the TV frame.

6. Add Dark Wax and Buff it Off

Once the Rub ‘n Buff has dried, use a brush to add the brown wax to the embellishments which will add a darker color into the creases, and is a great way to add depth and give them a nice vintage look. After you add the wax, buff off the wax with a soft cloth.

You do not need to add wax or rub n' buff if you are not planning to do a vintage looking frame.

Paint the wax onto the TV frame in a circular motion first, then go back over it with a straight buffing motion. Then you'll use the soft cloth to buff the wax and you'll end up with a nice patina.

Once that's done, you can slowly and carefully remove the painter's tape.

7. Add ornate wood pieces

Lastly, I cut small pieces of double sided foam tape, attach them to the wood embellishments, and attach them to the corners of the TV frame.

They add an elegant touch to a simple frame that's perfect!

Your flat panel TV is now one more of the beautiful things in your home; an art piece for you to watch your favorite show on.

Final Thoughts

You can complete the new look of your TV by displaying digital art on your TV screen. I created a playlist of Vintage tv art on my YouTube. It makes your TV look just like a piece of art in a wood frame! It completely changes the look of your family room.

Your TV wall can now be a gallery wall. You can learn more about how to hang a gallery wall here. Or if your TV is in your bedroom, your newly painted TV frame would wonderfully complement an antique vintage aesthetic bedroom.

So what do you think? Would you be willing to paint your TV frame? I know it can be intimidating, especially if you have a new TV. However, it was really easier than I thought it would be.

Whatever the size of your TV, I think you'll be happy with the results. I'll keep you updated on how it holds up. If you decide to paint your TV frame, I'd love to hear how it goes!

Happy Decorating!

How to Paint Your TV Frame

Learn how to paint your tv frame (mine is a vintage frame style) and where to find art on YouTube for your television.

Materials

Cleaner like Windex
Painter's tape
Fine grit sanding block
Paper towels (damp to remove grit and clean the TV)
Artist paint brush
Outdoor acrylic paint (DecoArt Outdoor Acrylic Color Splendid Gold)
Rub 'n Buff
Brown wax (Dixie Belle is what I used)
Double-sided foam tape (I found mine at Dollar Tree)
Soft cloth to remove wax (or use an old sock as I did)
Wood ornate corner embellishment

Instructions

The first thing you're going to want to clean your TV well. I used paper towels and Windex. Be sure to clean the whole thing; the TV screen in addition to the frame.
The next step is to use painter's tape to tape off the inside of the screen to ensure you don't get any paint on the screen. As you put the tape on, be sure to get it as tight against the frame as possible.
Take your sanding block and rough up the each flat surface of the frame and the side. Once you've sanded all four sides, use a damp rag or paper towel to remove any grit.
I used a gold outdoor acrylic paint to paint the TV frame. It goes on thinly so you'll need to add multiple coats. Let each coat dry for 15-20 minutes before adding the next coat.
While the paint on your TV frame dries, you can use the time to paint the embellishments that will go along the corners of your TV.
After the paint has dried, put Rub n' Buff over the gold. To do this, simply put the Rub 'n Buff on a paper plate and, using the same paint brush, dab it into the Rub 'n Buff and then wipe it over the gold paint. Do this to the embellishments and the TV frame.
Once the Rub 'n Buff has dried, use a brush to add the wax to the embellishments which will add a darker color into the creases, and is a great way to add depth and give them a nice vintage look. After you add the wax, wipe off any excess with a soft cloth.
Paint the wax onto the TV frame in a circular motion first, then go back over it with a straight buffing motion. Then you'll use the soft cloth to buff the wax and you'll end up with a nice patina.
Once that's done, you can slowly and carefully remove the painter's tape
Cut small pieces of double sided foam tape, attach them to the wood embellishments, and attach them to the corners of the TV frame.

Notes

Before you start painting, look for any clear part on the frame that may be where your remote communicates with your TV sensor. It's usually on the bottom of the TV but it could be at the top of the TV. Be sure to avoid painting over that area.
Once you finish painting a side of your TV frame, it's a great idea to take your paint brush and run it in one long stroke along the side to blend the paint.

The post How to Paint Your TV Frame appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

How to Turn a Closet into a Pantry

Linda McDonald — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 10:45:00 +0000

Recently I converted our hall closet into a beautiful pantry with the help of Home Depot and BEHR® Paint, and after so many people asked how I did this, I thought it was time to write a post. So here is how to turn a closet into a pantry.

Many years ago, our old coat closet was a mess. And my small kitchen pantry was always full to the brim with groceries. So one day, I got the idea to make my hall closet into our kitchen pantry. While not every home comes with a walk-in pantry, you'd be surprised what a difference this second pantry can make.

But years later, I found this large hall pantry closet to be an eye sore with scuffed-up walls, and the doors stayed open all the time. When Home Depot and BEHR® Paint reached out to do a project together, I thought this hard-working pantry was the perfect project. It needs fresh paint that can handle wear and tear and a beautiful pantry design without any doors.

So here is my secret on how to turn a closet into a pantry space the easy way, where it is functional, durable, and aesthetically pleasing.

This post is sponsored by The Home Depot. This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission at no cost to you if you purchase using the links below. All opinions are my own.

How To Turn a Closet Into A Pantry

1. Closet turned to Pantry Design Plan

Before tearing everything out of the pantry, the first thing I do was create a design plan. Don't overlook this important step. As a designer, I know creating a design plan or mood board is worth the time to get a great look. You can create your plan digitally or cut and paste magazine pages onto a poster or foam board.

2. Shopping List for Closet Pantry

Once I had a design board planned, I started selecting items from the Home Depot's website or app for the project. This is a great place to create your shopping list for in-store shopping and online.

Builders Choice 1 in. x 2 in. x 6 ft. S4S Poplar Board
Columbia Forest Products 3/4 in. x 4 ft. x 8 ft. PureBond Birch Plywood
1 in. x 4 in. x 6 ft. Premium Kiln-Dried Square Edge Whitewood Common Board
BEHR DYNASTY 1 gal. Designer Collection #DC-003 Blank Canvas Satin Enamel Interior Stain-Blocking Paint & Primer
BEHR DYNASTY 1 gal. Designer Collection #DC-003 Gratifying Gray Satin Enamel Interior Stain-Blocking Paint & Primer
3M Pro Grade Precision 2-1/2 in. x 4-1/2 in. x 1 in. 220-Grit Extra Fine Block Sanding Sponge (2-Pack)
DAP Patch-N-Paint 8 oz. White Premium-Grade Lightweight Spackling Paste
DAP Alex Painter's 10.1 oz. White All-Purpose Acrylic Latex Caulk
EUCATILE 32 sq. ft. 3/16 in. x 48 in. x 96 in. Beadboard White True Bead Panel
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit with 1.5 Ah Battery and Charger
Lintex Buffalo Check 60 in. x 104 in. Sand 100% Cotton Table Cloth for Any Table
RYOBI 15 Amp 10 in. Corded Sliding Compound Miter Saw with LED Cutline Indicator
BI 2.6 Amp Corded 5 in. Random Orbital Sander
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit with 1.5 Ah Battery and Charger
Mason Craft and More 2-Piece 5.7L Apothecary Glass Kitchen Canister Set
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless AirStrike 18-Gauge Brad Nailer (Tool Only) with Sample Nails
OXO Good Grips 0.2 qt. Mini POP Container with Airtight Lid (4-Pack)
OXO Good Grips 6.0 Qt. Big Square Tall POP Food Storage Container with Airtight Lid
Waddell CR310 1-3/4 in. x 9-3/4 in. x 9-3/4 in. Solid Basswood Corbels
12 in. x 12 in. x 12 in. Tan Wicker Cube Storage Bins
1/2 in. x 8 ft. Copper Ground Rod
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool-Only)
Milwaukee 6 in. 24 TPI Thin Metal Cutting SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw Blades (5-Pack)
BEHR PREMIUM 11 oz. SP-206 Antique Copper Metallic Gloss Interior/Exterior Spray Paint Aerosol

Project Tips:

Design Plan or Mood Board: Canva or PicMonkey are great tools when digitally creating a design plan or mood board, but another fun idea is cutting ideas out of a home decor magazine. Simply cut and glue them to the board. Here are my top 10 home decor magazines and my Pinterest, which is another great place to curate ideas.
Shopping list: create your supply list on the Home Depot website or app. Home Depot carries just about everything from paint to furniture to linens. When planning what you need at the store and online add each piece to your cart. This way your list is tidy in one place.
Shopping at the store: When you get to the store, you can easily click on the item to see what aisle to find it and after you check out, anything they didn't have; you can order when you get home.
Shopping online for paint: Did you know you can select your BEHR® Paint online and have it shipped to your door? If you plan ahead this will save you so much time because your paint will arrive in the mail. Consider purchasing other supplies like paintbrushes and trays at the same time.
Shopping in the paint store: Here is a little secret I have only shared with my subscribers in my newsletter. Add the paint to your Home Depot cart on the app when you decide on your paint color. Order the paint on the app for car delivery at the store. You will save yourself so much time and frustration from waiting in line at the paint counter.
Best paint sheen: For your pantry, I recommend a satin or semi-gloss finish in the BEHR DYNASTY® Interior Paint. My pantry has been finished for months in satin and performs beautifully.

3. Demo Closet

Next, remove everything from the inside of the closet. Here is what our pantry closet looked like before.

This is a great time to purge anything you haven't used in years or items past their expiration date. After you have removed everything, it is time to tear out everything and bring it down to bare walls.

I removed all the wood strips holding the old shelves in my closet except for the bottom two. You will see why soon.

Your can leave the existing door frame.

4. Repair the Sheetrock Walls

Next, repair any holes on the walls, except where the beadboard will go, with spackle. After the spackle has dried, sand it smooth.

5. Install Countertop Shelf

If you plan to make your pantry into a butler's pantry with a countertop, go ahead and cut a piece of wood and set it on the wood strips attached to the wall.

Next, use a 1 x 2″ and nail it to the front to give the countertop thickness and a lip underneath for a curtain rod to hide behind.

6. Install Beadboard

If you are planning to add decorative wood to the walls, this is when you will do that. We installed a beadboard on the back wall only. Measure each wall and cut your wood to fit. I attached my beadboard with my Ryobi brad nailer.

7. Install Brackets

Once your beadboard is in place, measure where you want your shelves to go above the countertop. I added more height between the countertop and the first shelf because I plan to install a copper rod to dry herbs, so I needed extra space.

Mark where you want your brackets to go, and now let's drill holes in the side of your brackets. This will help us attach them securely where they sit on the wall. Only do this for the brackets that are in the corners.

Now screw the bracket onto the walls, drill another hole at the bottom, and screw in the bracket on the bottom.

8. Install Shelves

Next, measure between the brackets for a 1 x 3 piece of wood.

Cut the wood to fit and install with a brad nailer where the top of the wood is in line with the top of the bracket.

Add another piece of wood at the top of the wall against the ceiling to finish the beadboard. Next, cut the wood for the shelves, set it on the brackets, and support the wood in the back.

After your shelves are in place, cut screen trim and nail to the front of the wood to finish the edge.

9. Spackle and Paint Pantry with BEHR DYNASTY® Interior Paint

Can you start to see how all this is coming together? Next, spackle all the holes and caulk anything that is needed. Once all the spackle and caulk are dry, sand it smooth where needed.

Now it is time to start painting. First, pull the shelves out for easy painting. Paint the walls and the shelves. I painted the shelves on my table that I covered with a drop cloth, and while they were drying, I painted the walls inside the pantry. Here are the steps to painting the shelves.

First, I sanded the shelves smoothly with a fine-grit sandpaper. Then I removed any dust with a damp paper towel.

Next, I applied BEHR DYNASTY® Interior Paint in color, Gratifying Gray (DC-008). This paint is fantastic! I used it on my board and batten fireplace surround, and it has held up beautifully.

BEHR DYNASTY® Interior Paint is durable and perfect for a hard-working pantry where metal cans will be drug across it. This paint is stain-repellent, scuff-resistant, and fast drying. That is the recipe for the perfect paint for a pantry. Plus, all I needed was one coat of paint. BEHR DYNASTY® is a perfect paint.

While the shelves are drying, paint the walls inside your pantry. I painted the back wall and brackets Gratifying Gray (DC-008) and the side walls Blank Canvas (DC-003).

These paint colors are a part of the Designer Collection. BEHR® Paint developed a palette of paint colors based on the most used colors by interior designs. This is an excellent list of colors to choose from when picking interior and exterior colors for your home.

Once your shelves and walls are finished being painted, install your shelves. At this point, let the paint cure for a day before putting anything on the shelves. This is a good time to add something special to your pantry. So in the meantime, here is how to make a homemade herb rack here is how I did that too.

How to Make a Homemade Herb Drying Rack

About a year ago, my hubby planted an herb garden outside. Not all herbs last through the winter, so I needed a drying rack to store herbs. Our pantry is a great place to dry herbs because it is not exposed to the sun and is a well-ventilated area. Here are the simple steps to make a homemade herb drying rack with copper. It soon became one of my favorite things about my new pantry.

Measure and cut copper pipe (I measured 1/3″ of the width of our pantry and used a reciprocating saw with metal cutting blade)
Spray paint curtain rod brackets to match the rod (I used Behr spray paint color, Antique Copper)
Screw the brackets into the wall leaving 1/2″ of rod hanging off on each side
Screw the bracket screws into the copper pipe to make it snug
Tie herbs to the rod upside down with twine, or you can purchase s-hooks and spray paint them too

10. Pantry Organizing

Now that your paint is dry, it is time to add your groceries. When I shared this completed pantry on Instagram, several people asked where all my groceries were. LOL! When I am finished, you will see how clever they are hidden.

Let's start from the bottom up, and I will share where I stored all our pantry items.

On the floor below the shelf, I installed large oversized baskets that I already had on hand. In these baskets are more oversized or bulk items. You could also use this space for small appliances you don't use often. Here is what we have in our baskets:

brown paper bags for recycling
plastic grocery bags to line smaller trash cans
Cat food that comes in large bags
Disposable cooking trays
Lunch boxes

Next, let's store all your not-so-pretty food items below the countertop on the bottom shelf. These are all the groceries you use weekly.

Cans neatly stacked in rows, and bottles lined up on the left
Dry goods are stored in Oxo air-tight storage containers on the Home Depots' website on the right.
Cookie jar in the middle to store small items or your individually wrapped favorite snacks like peanut butter crackers.

On the countertop are all the baskets for vegetables and fruits that last longer without refrigeration and the perfect place for a basket for linen kitchen towels. When we closed in our refrigerator, I lost where my basket was being stored. So I rolled the towels neatly and stored them in the basket on the counter.

The next shelf up is cookbooks and old-fashioned jars to hold cereal, sugar, and oatmeal.

The cookbooks are on the left, and the jars are on the right.

Add Decorative Touches

I added this wall decoration in the middle. I found this piece at an antique store, but I have many designs similar to it in my Etsy shop that are printable you can decoupage to canvas. This is a great way to personalize your pantry.

On a side note, after living with this arrangement, I moved the glass jars down to the countertop because they are easier to use in this location. Now the copper baskets are up higher next to the cookbooks. The important thing is to make sure it's a functional pantry for you and your family's needs.

On the top shelf of the pantry are three large wicker baskets. These are not as big as the baskets on the floor but are perfect for a little extra storage space. They are about 12 x 12. In these baskets, I stored items I use on occasion, like cookie cutters and cake decorating supplies.

11. Pantry Curtain

Now that all your groceries are stocked in your new pantry, you will need to add our curtain. Home Depot has you covered here too.

Simply install a spring curtain rod behind the lip of the countertop. Then drape a table cloth over the rod where the front of the fabric is off the floor 1/4″. To keep your rod in place, sew a rod pocket at the top by hand or on a sewing machine.

Well, guess what? This pantry project is all finished. You now have plenty of room for all your family's kitchen supply needs.

Final Thoughts

After completing the pantry, I was so happy with how it turned out that I decided not to put the closet doors back on. The best part is that it makes us all keep it tidy even more and provides easy access to anything we need.

Also, I didn't plan it this way, but it looks like a butler's pantry you find in old homes. I have always wanted a butler's pantry, and now I have one. I love how this pantry turned out. This will also be a great place to serve drinks or desserts when we have family or friends over for dinner or brunch.

You might be thinking this is not enough food storage for your family. But even a small closet turned food pantry can provide quite a bit of space. In my kitchen, I am organized by zones. There are more details in my kitchen zone organizing post, but basically, you will discover a more efficient way to cook using this method and other places grocery items are stored. Even a tiny kitchen will feel bigger and more organized with my method.

This was easily one of my most satisfying DIY projects and the perfect solution for us. It could be a great solution for your family's kitchen. Here is a photo of the complete closet converted into a pantry or, maybe I should say, a butler's pantry. What do you think? Should I call it a fancy vintage pantry or a butlers pantry?

Happy Decorating!

How To Turn a Closet Into A Pantry

How to turn a closet into a functional, durable, and aesthetically pleasing pantry the easy way, with the help of Home Depot and BEHR® Paint.

Active Time 1 day

Total Time 1 day

Difficulty Medium

Materials

Tools

Instructions

Create a design plan: You can create your plan digitally or cut and paste magazine pages onto a poster or foam board.
Create a shopping List for Closet Pantry: Go to Home Depot's website or app for the project. This is a great place to create your shopping list for in-store shopping and online.
Demo Closet: Remove everything from the closet.
Repair the Sheetrock Walls: Repair any holes on the walls, except where the beadboard will go, with spackle. After the spackle has dried, sand it smooth.
Install Countertop Shelf: Cut a piece of wood and set it on the wood strips attached to the wall. Next, use a 1 x 2" and nail it to the front to give the countertop thickness and a lip underneath for a curtain rod to hide behind.
Install Beadboard: Measure each wall and cut your wood to fit. I attached my beadboard with my Ryobi brad nailer.
Install Brackets: Once your beadboard is in place, measure where you want your shelves to go above the countertop. Mark where you want your brackets to go, and now let's drill holes in the side of your brackets. This will help us attach them securely where they sit on the wall. Only do this for the brackets that are in the corners. Screw the bracket onto the walls, drill another hole at the bottom, and screw in the bracket on the bottom.
Install Shelves: Measure between the brackets for a 1 x 3 piece of wood. Cut the wood to fit and install with a brad nailer where the top of the wood is in line with the top of the bracket. Add another piece of wood at the top of the wall against the ceiling to finish the beadboard. Next, cut the wood for the shelves, set it on the brackets, and support the wood in the back. After your shelves are in place, cut screen trim and nail to the front of the wood to finish the edge.
Spackle and Paint Pantry with BEHR DYNASTY® Interior Paint: Spackle all the holes and caulk anything that is needed. Once all the spackle and caulk are dry, sand it smooth where needed. pull the shelves out for easy painting. Paint the walls and the shelves. I painted the shelves on my table that I covered with a drop cloth, and while they were drying, I painted the walls inside the pantry. Here are the steps to painting the shelves: First, I sanded the shelves smoothly with a fine-grit sandpaper. Then I removed any dust with a damp paper towel. Next, I applied BEHR DYNASTY® Interior Paint in color, Gratifying Gray. Once your shelves and walls are finished being painted, install your shelves. At this point, let the paint cure for a day before putting anything on the shelves.
How to Make a Homemade Herb Drying Rack: Measure and cut copper pipe (I measured 1/3" of the width of our pantry and used a reciprocating saw with metal cutting blade). Spray paint curtain rod brackets to match the rod (I used Behr spray paint color, Antique Copper). Screw the brackets into the wall leaving 1/2" of rod hanging off on each side. Screw the bracket screws into the copper pipe to make it snug. Tie herbs to the rod upside down with twine, or you can purchase s-hooks and spray paint them too.
Pantry Organizing: Now that your paint is dry, it is time to add your groceries. On the floor below the shelf, I installed large oversized baskets that I already had on hand for oversized items. Store all your not-so-pretty groceries below the countertop. These are all the groceries you use weekly: Cans neatly stacked in rows, and bottles lined up on the left; dry goods are stored in Oxo air-tight storage containers on the Home Depots' website on the right; cookie jar in the middle to store individually wrapped items like peanut butter crackers. On the countertop are all the baskets for vegetables and fruits that last longer without refrigeration and a basket for linen kitchen towels. The next shelf up is cookbooks and old-fashioned jars to hold cereal, sugar, and oatmeal. The cookbooks are on the left, and the jars are on the right. On the top shelf of the pantry are three large wicker baskets for items I use on occasion, like cookie cutters and cake decorating supplies.
Pantry Curtain: Install a spring curtain rod behind the lip of the countertop. Then drape a table cloth over the rod where the front of the fabric is off the floor 1/4". To keep your rod in place, sew a rod pocket at the top by hand or on a sewing machine.

Notes

Design Plan or Mood Board: Canva or PicMonkey are great tools when digitally creating a design plan or mood board, but another fun idea is cutting ideas out of a home decor magazine. Simply cut and glue them to the board. Here are my top 10 home decor magazines and my Pinterest, which is another great place to curate ideas.

Shopping list: create your supply list on the Home Depot website or app. Home Depot carries just about everything from paint to furniture to linens. When planning what you need at the store and online add each piece to your cart. This way your list is tidy in one place.

Shopping at the store: When you get to the store, you can easily click on the item to see what aisle to find it and after you check out, anything they didn't have; you can order when you get home.

Shopping online for paint: Did you know you can select your BEHR® Paint online and have it shipped to your door? If you plan ahead this will save you so much time because your paint will arrive in the mail. Consider purchasing other supplies like paintbrushes and trays at the same time.

Shopping in the paint store: Here is a little secret I have only shared with my subscribers in my newsletter. Add the paint to your Home Depot cart on the app when you decide on your paint color. Order the paint on the app for car delivery at the store. You will save yourself so much time and frustration from waiting in line at the paint counter.

Best paint sheen: For your pantry, I recommend a satin or semi-gloss finish in the BEHR DYNASTY® Interior Paint. My pantry has been finished for months in satin and performs beautifully.

The post How to Turn a Closet into a Pantry appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

How to Hang a Wreath on Brick Wall (6 Easy Steps)

Linda McDonald — Sat, 26 Nov 2022 10:45:00 +0000

The holidays are quickly approaching and hanging wreaths are a popular way to decorate. Today I am sharing how to hang a wreath on brick. You can use this technique for exterior or interior brick.

Recently, while visiting family in North Carolina I was researching how to hang exterior Christmas wreaths on brick. Wreaths are beautiful holiday decor but brick can be a difficult material to work with.

While searching for different ideas, my nephew offered to show me his technique which is sturdy and holds up very well to wind and other harsh weather. This is a great way to hang your wreath and I couldn't wait to share.

For many years I hung wreaths and art on brick walls with a steel case nail. This wasn't the most sturdy way to hang anything on brick but it worked well.

I've always kept an eye out for different ways that could be better. After seeing my nephew's technique while hanging this beautiful wreath, I will be doing this in the future.

However, during my research, I also came across this brick clamp and if you have enough brick for it to clamp, too, then, this might be an even better idea, especially for interior brick. But for now, here is how to hang a wreath on a brick wall, fireplace, outside and inside.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

How to Hang a Wreath on Brick

You may want to rush to put out your Christmas decorations but, first things first, you want to start with the right tools. When it comes to brick, command hooks and adhesive strips just won't do. For this project, you don't need many tools but you want the right ones.

Supplies and Tools You'll Need

Now that you have all your tools ready, here is how to hang a wreath on a brick wall with step-by-step instructions.

1. Measure and Mark on Mortar

Before you start, you want to find just the right place for your wreath. You don't want to drill a lot of times in the face of the brick. You may consider marking the place you choose with a piece of chalk so you don't forget.

2. Drill a Hole in Mortar

Once you've identified the best place for your wreath, you're going to start with your masonry bit and you want to be sure to drill into the mortar, not the brick. Be sure you pick the right size drill bit which should be the same size as your wall anchor.

3. Hammer Anchor Into Hole

Next, hammer the anchor into the hole. Your anchor should be snug and grip the mortar that is around it. If the anchor will not go in the hole drill into the hole moving it around to make the hole a little larger.

4. Drill in the Screw

Then, you'll drill your screw into the anchor but do not drill it in all the way.

Leave it out about half an inch.

5. Attach Zip Tie to Wreath

Loop your zip tie through the wire on the back of the top of the wreath. It's a good idea to leave it a little bit loose so you have a loop to hang the wreath from.

6. Hang Wreath on Brick Wall (Let's Hang Our Wreath)

Hang the wreath from the screw using the zip tie and then tighten the zip tie the rest of the way to secure it.

In strong winds, this is your best bet to protect your wreath from getting carried away. This should help keep your wreath in good condition, as well.

Cut any excess zip tie that is showing from the front.

Fluff up your wreath, and you're done! It's that easy. Isn't this a gorgeous wreath?

How Do I Hang a Wreath on Brick Without Drilling?

A wreath clamp for brick is a good option as an alternative to drilling into the mortar. Brick clips are a good choice and will work for outdoor use or indoor use. These heavy duty clamps can hold up to 25 pounds making them perfect for a heavy wreath.

Additionally, you can use more than one if the decor you're hanging exceeds the weight limit. This may be your best solution, but if your mortar is flush with your brick, this device won't work for you.

Final Thoughts

What did you think of this DIY project? Pretty easy, right? I hope it's helpful to hang your wreaths this holiday season and for any seasonal wreaths you have throughout the year. After all, decorative wreaths are great for all seasons.

If you don't have brick to hang your wreath from, I have a few different methods for sharing your holiday joy. You should check out my instructions on how to hang a wreath on a window or how to hang a wreath with ribbon on your front door. I'll give you a hint, it's not your typical door hanger!

I'd love to hear how your wreath hanging goes and if you have any other tips and tricks to share.

Happy Decorating!

How to Hang a Wreath on Brick

I am sharing how to hang a wreath on brick. You can use this technique for exterior or interiors brick.

Materials

Tools

Instructions

You're going to start with your masonry drill bit and you want to be sure to drill into the mortar, not the brick. Be sure you pick a drill bit the same size as your anchor.
Next, hammer the anchor into the hole.
Then, you'll drill your screw into the anchor but do not drill it in all the way. Leave it out about half an inch.
Loop your zip tie through the wire on the back of the wreath at the top. Leave it a little loose so you have a loop to hang the wreath from. Cut the excess zip tie.
Hang the wreath from the screw using the zip tie and then tighten the zip tie the rest of the way to secure it.
Cut any excess zip tie that is showing from the front.
Fluff up your wreath, and you're done! It's that easy.

Notes

You can use this wreath clamp for brick as an alternative to drilling into the mortar. This device will work for exterior or interior brick. However, if your mortar is flush with your brick this device won't work for you.

The post How to Hang a Wreath on Brick Wall (6 Easy Steps) appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

How to Keep Copper Shiny the Easy Way

Linda McDonald — Sat, 24 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Today I am sharing how to keep copper shiny the easy way. If you love the look of copper but are not a fan of the dark brown patina it creates after a week or more, then you will love this simple way to keep your copper clean.

In the past couple of years, I have been slowly redesigning our kitchen into a small french country kitchen. One way to get the old-world feeling was by adding copper accents. I have copper items in the room, from useful pieces over my stove to decorations.

The look of a copper surface as it patinas is so pretty, but sometimes I love to shine it up and make it looks as rosy as a baby's bottom. After sharing our kitchen tour and decorating with copper accents, I thought it was time to share how to keep copper shiny.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

How to Keep Copper Shiny

Good news – it is truly simple. Whether I have used a copper piece for cooking or it is cleaning day, I have found that shining our copper takes no time. I currently have eight pieces of copper in my kitchen, and when it is cleaning day, it takes me about 30 minutes to clean them all.

So what is my secret — it is using Bar Keepers Friend. This is the best product to get your copper back to a clean and rosy color. It is not like a mirror when you purchased it from the store, but it is clean and pretty. If you have copper, it's a good choice to keep this around to maintain the look of your beautiful copper.

The good thing is that cleaning copper is very simple and does not take a long time. Here are the steps for best results on how to clean copper.

How to Clean Copper

First, let's talk about cleaning the inside if you are cleaning cookware. The inside of your copper pot or pan is probably tin if it is old or stainless steel if it is new. Tin is very soft, so be careful you don't scratch it. Use soft sponges or soft cloth when cleaning, so you won't scratch them.

Now simply use dish soap and warm water to clean the inside of your pots and pans. But for the outside surface of the copper, especially for stubborn tarnish, you can use something more scratchy. Copper is pretty durable.

I wet my sponge and pour Bar Keeps Friend powder or paste onto the outside bottom tarnished copper pot, pan, or decoration.

Then I start scrubbing with the rough side of the sponge. The acid in the Bar Keepers Friend reacts with the surface of copper, and it will magically begin to turn back into the prettiest rosy copper color.

Next, rinse it with warm water and then use a dry cloth or dishtowel to dry it. It is that simple. I feel like I need to tell you more, but there is not much more to say when cleaning it or making it shiny again.

Remember you don't have to clean tarnish from your copper if you love the look of it aged and patinaed. But I have to say that with my copper hanging over the stove, I find it needs a good cleaning whether I use it or not weekly. Grease and such splatter on it and makes it a mess

See how pretty the copper looks when it is clean. Here is how it looked before and after cleaning.

Cleaning other Copper Items

You can continue to use this technique with other copper pieces as I did here with this old flue cover hanging on my wall and this other decorative plate.

I also cleaned my antique ladle that was black when I got it. I boiled it in vinegar and tried many techniques but could only get it somewhat clean and shiny. It wasn't until I discovered Bar Keepers Friend that it turned rosy and shiny.

Natural Way to Clean Copper

There are cleaning methods to clean copper with natural ingredients, like lemon juice or tomato paste. I have never tried these ways, but natural acids, I have heard, work very well on cleaning copper.

Best Place to Buy Copper

Now that you know how easy it is to keep copper shiny and pretty, here are a few places where you can buy new and old copper for decorations or cookware.

I found my copper pans in an antique/thrift store, and the mugs used to belong to my in-laws. We do not use these pans or mugs. The pans need to be re-tined, and the mugs don't have any coating, so I don't want to take a chance.

For new pieces of copper cookware, I recommend William and Sonoma. Copper is an excellent conductor of heat for cooking. They have such beautiful pieces, and they are safe to use if they come from them. This copper braiser has the most beautiful acorn knob on top. I have it on my wish list.

The copper ladle is an antique I found while picking in an old antique/thrift store. But Etsy is a great place to shop for antique pieces of copper.

For other copper decorations for your kitchen, look for copper molds, flue plates, or any kind of plate. I found these plates in that same antique thrift store. But again, you can find many more on Etsy's website.

Conclusion

For years I thought keeping copper shiny was almost impossible, so I avoided using copper in my kitchen. But after watching The Elliott Homestead share how she keeps her copper clean, I decided to try it on my old antique copper ladle. To my surprise, it polished up into the most amazing rose color until I couldn't believe it.

I am glad I discovered this simple way to clean copper and make it look shiny again. While the oxidation of copper is a natural process, having beautiful, shiny copper displayed in your kitchen is so lovely. There is something about having a clean kitchen that makes me happy.

How about you? Do you have copper in your kitchen or home? Maybe you have a favorite copper mug or wall art. In recent years copper hoods and copper back-splashes have become popular. Or perhaps you have a copper sink or even copper counters. How do you keep your copper clean and shiny? I'd love to hear any easy ways that work for you. Please share in the comment so we all can learn from each other.

Happy Decorating!

How to Keep Copper Shiny and Clean

Keeping copper shiny is easy and always looks beautiful in your kitchen or as a decoration in your home.

Active Time 30 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Difficulty Easy

Estimated Cost 10.00

Materials

Bar Keepers Friend
Soft sponge or soft cloth
Sponge with rough side
Dry cloth or dishtowel

Instructions

Remove the copper pieces being displayed or the copper you use daily. If the inside of the pot or pan is tin be careful you don't scratch it. Use soft sponges or soft cloth when cleaning.
For the outside surface of the copper you can use something more scratchy.
Wet your sponge and pour Bar Keeps Friend powder or paste onto the outside bottom pot, pan, or decoration.
Start scrubbing with the rough side of the sponge.
Rinse with warm water.
Dry with a cloth.
Hang all your clean copper pots, pans, and mugs back up in their spaces.

The post How to Keep Copper Shiny the Easy Way appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

12 Creative Ideas on How to Decorate with Wicker Baskets

Linda McDonald — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

If you're looking for new ways to add a touch of charm to your home, using wicker baskets is a great option. They come in all shapes and sizes, making them perfect for a variety of applications. Here are 12 creative ideas on how you can use wicker baskets around your home. Enjoy!

If you're looking for new ways to add a touch of charm to your home, using wicker baskets is a great option. They come in all different shapes and sizes, making them perfect for a variety of applications. Here are 12 creative ideas on how you can use wicker baskets around your home. Enjoy!

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

Today we are talking about how to decorate with wicker baskets because recently I have been in love with decorating with baskets. Well, actually I have had a love affair with baskets for many, many years. LOL!

But you might be wondering why I love my wicker basket collection so much. Well, they are charming, provide extra storage space, add instant character to your home decor and you can find them cheap when thrift shopping.

Okay so now that I have confessed and hopefully gotten you on board with decorating with baskets let's look at different ways you can decorate with wicker baskets in your home and how to style them.

How to Decorate with Wicker Baskets

The best places to decorate with wicker baskets are

Coffee tables
Fireplace mantels
Dining tables
Bookcases
On top of tall furniture
On top of cabinets
Kitchen decorative storage
Bathroom decorative storage
Hanging on hooks

There are so many options for decorating with baskets but let's break this down even more and show how you can style them in your home decor.

Decorating with Wicker Baskets on Coffee Tables

You have many options when it comes to your coffee table. For example, use a wicker tray to sit books inside or other decorations. You can also consider using a wicker basket on a side table for remote controls for easy access. A wicker basket is also a great alternative to a magazine rack.

And you can even layer smaller baskets inside large baskets as we did here with this small white-painted basket in our living room. I share how to paint wicker baskets in another post if you would like to give your old basket a fresh new look.

Wicker Baskets Decorating Ideas for your Fireplace Mantel

Another great place to decorate with wicker baskets is your mantel as I did on our spring mantel. You can sit smaller baskets on the mantel shelf or hang them on the front as we did for fresh or faux flowers.

I love hanging baskets so much that we also hung a smaller one on the wall above the mantel.

Years ago in the fall, we hung many baskets over the mantel and created this fall decor mantel. Wicker baskets really fit the fall look. In fact, they fit into any season very well and are an easy way to create new looks. This shallow basket and flat baskets are easy to hang for beautiful wall decor.

Wicker Basket Centerpiece Ideas

Wicker baskets of all shapes and sizes are an easy way to create centerpieces. Consider adding a pitcher of water inside of a pretty basket and making a floral arrangement as I did here.

Your options are endless for dining room table decorations.

Bookcase Decorating Using Wicker Baskets

Probably one of my favorite places to decorate with baskets is a bookcase. Baskets add so much character and charm to a bookcase like these large wicker baskets. And you can store things inside of them. A tall basket is perfect for storing extra towels or cozy blanket.

Add baskets to the top of your bookcase or furniture, especially vintage and antique baskets like my bushel basket. I got this basket while antiquing and thrifting. I share more about decorating from thrift stores in another post.

Also, consider placing a picnic basket on a bookcase. A sturdy basket like this is the perfect hidden storage compartment and it looks pretty.

Add a small wreath on top of the basket for another decoration.

Also, using a lidded basket such as a picnic basket as decoration makes getting ready for a picnic easy. When you get ready to pack all you have to do is grab it and go. We used this basket in our vintage tea party picnic post if you would like a picnic idea.

Kitchen Decorating with Wicker Baskets

The kitchen is the one place that needs baskets. Remember, baskets are pretty and you can use them for storage. This basket over my refrigerator looks like it is a decoration but I actually store kitchen towels in it.

Who would have known? Right?

And if you need to organize your cabinets, wicker baskets provide the perfect solution. They look so pretty!!

In addition to storage baskets, there are more organizing tips in my how to organize your kitchen post. There are more creative and pretty ways to organize.

Wicker baskets are also a practical storage solution for your home office to store office supplies and organize important papers.

I also love hanging baskets as decoration. Here is a great example of using tiny baskets for your decorations. And it is handy if I want to use it on our dining table for dinner.

Another hanging basket idea is this french market basket which is one of my favorite. This decorative basket gets used a lot and it looks amazing hanging in my kitchen. One of my favorite ways to use it is to add fresh flowers to it now and then but for the most part, it is empty because I use so much.

Bathroom Decorating and Storage Using Wicker Baskets

Now let's head to my bathroom where I use these beautiful baskets from Ikea as storage. They are a great idea to act as a decoration and are a perfect way to solve a storage problem I have in our small bathroom.

If you have a console table by the front door a wicker basket can be a great place to drop your keys so you know where to find them.

Hanging Pendant Light Wicker Basket

Not all baskets sit on shelves or furniture. You can even make a wicker basket light and hang it next to a bed, over a desk, or next to a chair in a reading nook.

This is a great way to add lighting without losing nightstand or desk space. And this DIY basket pendant light is so easy to make.

Final Thoughts!

I think by now you are seeing that there are endless possibilities when it comes to decorating with wicker baskets. There are so many different materials used to make baskets which give you many options when it comes to decorating.

Here is my best advice when shopping for baskets. You can buy new baskets from stores. My favorite places to shop for baskets are Walmart, Target, Homegoods, Ikea, and Amazon. For used baskets, I look online on Etsy for wicker baskets and locally at thrift stores and garage sales. For old vintage antique baskets, I shop at antique stores and keep my eyes open at thrift stores and garage sales.

When you buy an old used basket, think about cleaning it. I have a post on how to clean a wicker basket that shows two ways of the best methods to clean them. You will be surprised at how much brighter a vintage basket will look after cleaning it.

Okay, so now you have all kinds of ideas for decorating with wicker baskets and tips on shopping for them. Decorating with baskets can be a cheap way to add decor to your home. Baskets can also be very expensive too but remember, you don't have to pay a lot to add wicker basket charm to your home decor.

Now grab some baskets and start decorating. If you are new to wicker basket decorating, feel free to ask any questions below. And, last, do you have a favorite wicker basket in your own home? If so I would love to know what it is and how you decorate with it or use it.

I hope you have a wonderful day!

Happy Decorating!

How to Decorate with Wicker Baskets

Here are creative ideas on how you can use wicker baskets around your home. Enjoy!

Instructions

Decorating with Wicker Baskets on Coffee Tables - use a wicker tray to sit books inside, or other decorations. You can even layer smaller baskets inside large baskets

Wicker Baskets Decorating Ideas for your Fireplace Mantel - You can sit smaller baskets on the mantel shelf or hang them on the front as we did for fresh or faux flowers. You can also hang many baskets over the mantel for beautiful wall decor.

Wicker Basket Centerpiece Ideas - Consider adding a pitcher of water inside of a pretty basket and making a floral arrangement.

Bookcase Decorating Using Wicker Baskets - Baskets add so much character and charm to a bookcase and you can store things inside of them. Also, consider placing a picnic basket on a bookcase.

Kitchen Decorating with Wicker Baskets - A basket over your refrigerator looks like it is a decoration but actually stores kitchen towels. And if you need to organize your cabinets, wicker baskets provide the perfect solution.

Hanging Baskets - Add fresh flowers to it or keep it empty to use for shopping or errands.

Bathroom Decorating and Storage Using Wicker Baskets - Wicker baskets are a perfect way to solve a storage problem in a small bathroom.

Hanging Pendant Light Wicker Basket - Not all baskets sit on shelves or furniture. You can make a wicker basket light and hang it next to a bed, over a desk, or next to a chair in a reading nook.

Notes

You can buy new baskets from stores like Walmart, Target, Homegoods, Ikea, and Amazon. For used baskets, try Etsy for wicker baskets and locally at thrift stores and garage sales. For old vintage antique baskets, try antique stores and keep your eyes open at thrift stores and garage sales.

The post 12 Creative Ideas on How to Decorate with Wicker Baskets appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

How to Paint Wicker Baskets: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Linda McDonald — Sat, 11 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wanted to give your wicker baskets a new look, but didn't know how to paint them? Well, not to worry! In this blog post, I will show you how to paint wicker baskets using simple methods and supplies. So get ready to transform those boring baskets into beautiful pieces of art!

After painting a few baskets I couldn't wait to share how to paint wicker baskets using two of my favorite methods.

For years I have been painting wicker baskets and decorating with them. Baskets are a great way to add texture and character to your home decor but sometimes you need to change the color to fit your style. Maybe your old wicker baskets are weathered and need a fresh new look. Maybe you have thrift store baskets that need a basket makeover. Or maybe you have new baskets that are a great shape but not the lovely color you want.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

How to Paint Wicker Baskets

The two best ways to paint wicker baskets are spray paint and chalk paint. Both are easy to apply and you can paint a basket in one day. Simply clean the basket. Then paint the basket. Let it dry and it is ready to use.

But let's break this down even more and I will share a few tips and tricks to make your old basket turn out looking fresh and new with just a few craft supplies.

Painting Basket Supplies

Basket
Drop cloth
Spray paint (if you are spray painting)
Chalk paint (if you are chalk painting)
Paintbrush and possibly artist brush (if you are chalk painting)

Shop the post:

Get a Fresh Start

Spray painting wicker baskets is easy and you don't need many supplies. Gather spray paint, the basket, and a location where you don't have to worry about the spray paint getting on anything else. I find it's a great idea to spray paint your basket in an outdoor space.

You need to start with a clean basket. The first step is to brush off the basket. If it is really dirty clean the basket with water and mild soap. Rinse it off, then let it dry. You can find detailed instructions on how to clean a wicker basket here. Now let's paint the basket. In this case, I'll be using a white paint color.

How to Spray Paint Wicker Baskets

Start by spray painting the inside of the basket. Use even strokes holding the can of paint away from the basket about 8 inches. I find placing the basket on its side helpful.

Let the inside dry for 5 minutes and spray paint another coat. I usually have to paint three coats if I am using white spray paint.

For the next step, let it dry for 5 minutes then turn the basket over and paint the outside. If you do not need the bottom painted and you have a handle, go ahead and leave it sitting uprights and paint the outside.

When painting the outside I start spraying slightly away from the basket and move the paint in long even strokes across the basket. This helps get a more even finish. Apply a second and third coat if necessary.

If you have a handle on the baskets leave it to paint last. Once you have finished spray painting the body of the basket, now paint the handle.

Let the paint dry completely before using the basket. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour depending on how hot or humid it is outside.

I like spray painting baskets because the paint adheres very well. And it is very easy and cheap. As far as what paint I like to use, I like to use matte finish paint. You can find a matte finish by looking at the cap of a can of spray paint.

Also, I am not picky about what brand of spray paint I use. I have used different kinds of spray paint like this Rust-oleum brand and I have used Behr spray paint chalk paint before, too.

Chalk Paint Wicker Baskets

You can also chalk paint wicker baskets following these simple steps. I like to use this painting technique indoors so first place a drop cloth on your work area, you'll need chalk paint, a cup of water, and a paintbrush.

Begin chalk painting with a brush on the inside of the basket. Use a little water on the end of the paintbrush and then dip the brush into the chalk paint. Next, chalk paint on the inside of the basket starting on the bottom and working your way up.

You may need to work the paint into the little nooks and cracks. Also, a little paint will come through the cracks onto the outside of the basket.

When you have finished painting the inside, smooth out where the excess paint has come through on the outside.

After it is dry, turn it over and chalk paint the outside of the baskets. If your basket is going to sit on a table and no one will see the bottom I wouldn't paint the bottom.

If you need to paint the bottom, I would wait until the inside is dry and turn the basket over. For this particular project I am not planning to paint the bottom of my basket so it will be painted upright.

Start painting from the bottom up. If your basket has a handle like mine, you can hold the handle to help paint around the outside of the basket.

Now if you have a handle, paint it last. And don't forget to smooth out any paint that has squeezed through the cracks onto the inside.

Your Basket is Almost Done!

You may need more than one coat on your basket for full coverage. If so, let it dry for about 15 minutes and then apply another coat. I love how my basket looks with one coat so we are going with one coat.

Now let the entire basket dry for 30 minutes and then you are ready to decorate with your freshly painted basket.

I love the look of chalk paint on baskets. It gives it a beautiful chalky finish. My best advice on chalk painting baskets is to take your time and use an artist brush if needed to get the paint down into the cracks.

Between the two techniques, I find spray painting a basket provides and easy makeover and is quicker. But I love the old-fashioned vintage farmhouse look of a chalk-painted basket. They both look amazing!

Final Thoughts!

Now that your basket is painted, you can display it in your home decor. Here are some ideas for decorating with baskets.

You can place them on a bookcase with other decorations.

Or you can set it on a coffee table on top of books and fill it with bottles and a sprig of flowers or greenery.

You can also use baskets for storage in your kitchen, bathroom or any room. Get creative and have fun!

If you need more ideas try how to decorate with wicker baskets or how to hang wicker baskets on walls. Both of these posts will inspire you and give you lots of ideas.

Now that you know how to paint wicker baskets, go forth and give those boring baskets a makeover! You can paint them all kinds of lovely colors or go with simple white like I did today.

Baskets are a great way to add texture and character to your home decor. And this quick project is an easy way to give your baskets a makeover. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below or contact me. I love hearing from you!

Happy painting!

How to Paint Wicker Baskets

I will show you how to paint wicker baskets using simple methods and supplies.

Active Time 30 minutes

Additional Time 30 minutes

Total Time 1 hour

Difficulty Easy

Estimated Cost 10.00

Materials

Basket

Tools

Instructions

The first step is to brush off the basket. If it is really dirty clean the basket with water and mild soap. Rinse it off, then let it dry.
If spray painting, start by spray painting the inside of the basket. Use even strokes holding the can of paint away from the basket about 8 inches.
Let the inside dry for 5 minutes and spray paint another coat. I usually have to paint three coats if I am using white spray paint.
Let it dry for 5 minutes then turn the basket over and paint the outside. If you do not need the bottom painted and you have a handle, go ahead and leave it sitting uprights and paint the outside.
Start spraying slightly away from the basket and move the paint in long even strokes across the basket. This helps get a more even finish. Apply a second and third coat if necessary.
If you have a handle on the baskets leave it to paint last.
Let the paint dry completely before using the basket. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
If you'll be using chalk paint, you'll want a drop cloth on your work area, you'll need chalk paint, a cup of water, and a paintbrush.
Use a little water on the end of the paintbrush and then dip the brush into the chalk paint. Next, chalk paint on the inside of the basket starting on the bottom and working your way up.
You may need to work the paint into the little nooks and cracks. Also, a little paint will come through the cracks onto the outside of the basket.
When you have finished painting the inside, smooth out where the excess paint has come through on the outside.
After it is dry, turn it over and chalk paint the outside of the baskets. If your basket is going to sit on a table and no one will see the bottom I wouldn't paint the bottom.
If you need to paint the bottom, I would wait until the inside is dry and turn the basket over.
Start painting from the bottom up. If your basket has a handle like mine, you can hold the handle to help paint around the outside of the basket.
If you have a handle, paint it last. And don't forget to smooth out any paint that has squeezed through the cracks onto the inside.
If you need more than one coat, let it dry for about 15 minutes and then apply another coat.
Let the entire basket dry for 30 minutes and then you are ready to decorate with your freshly painted basket.

The post How to Paint Wicker Baskets: A Step-by-Step Tutorial appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

How to Clean a Wicker Baskets: Step by Step Guide

Linda McDonald — Sat, 04 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Today we are talking about how to clean wicker baskets. I will show you the best way to clean a vintage basket to remove years of build-up and what to use when cleaning a wicker basket.

Lately, vintage decorations have been the craze and baskets are an easy thing to decorate with and easy to find. But when you buy an old basket, you are purchasing other things that have been in contact with that basket like smoke and pet hair, to name a few. And your wicker basket will collect dust. Learning how to clean a wicker basket will extend its life and beauty.

So, if you buy a beautiful old vintage basket follow these steps on how to clean a basket to bring out its lovely color and remove any odors from the natural materials without any harsh chemicals.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

How to Clean Wicker Baskets

To begin here is a list of supplies you will need to clean your basket.

Clean paintbrush for dusting and cleaning (I picked up one at the Dollar Tree)
Tub or sink
Gentle dishwashing liquid
An old toothbrush or natural bristle brush (if needed to clean deep down between cracks)
Lint-free dishtowel
Pitcher of water or running tap water

Shop Wicker Basket Cleaning Supplies:

As you can see you do not need many things to clean a basket but before we jump into the simple steps let's talk about what baskets you should not clean.

Can I Clean an Antique Basket?

If you have an old antique basket that is very special or precious to you then you might want to reconsider cleaning the basket with a lot of water.

This farm basket is an old basket I found at an antique store. It was used to pick fruit and vegetables on a local farm in my hometown. I love how vintage decorations have a story or history so when I found this basket in an antique store in my hometown I knew I wanted to handle it with care.

So today we are going to give it a bath and then wash another old basket I found at a thrift store. This will walk through the best way to clean antique or thrift baskets.

How to Clean an Antique Basket

Like I said before, this is an old picking basket which means it probably has lots of dirt and grime in between the layers. I want to bring it back as close to its original beauty without taking chances and damaging the wood.

First, I removed the heavier dust carefully with a clean Dollar Tree paintbrush or a soft brush would work, especially between the wicker weave and around the base of the basket.

Next, I used a lint-free old dishtowel or soft cloth that is damp with water and started wiping it from the top down. Each time I noticed my towel looking dirty I cleaned it out and brushed the damp cloth over the wood again. Be sure not to use too much moisture. Continue until you've wiped down the entire piece.

Once I was finished, I left the basket set outside in the sun until it was completely dry.

This basket didn't necessarily get a deep clean but it is clean enough for display. Now let's talk about giving a wicker basket a deep cleaning.

How to Clean a Thrift Store Basket

Now let's talk about baskets that you care more about getting good and clean and less about saving them.

This small hanging basket I picked up at a thrift store. I bought it to hang in my garage over my woodworking table. It holds all my protective goggles and between spider webs and sawdust, it is one dirty wicker basket with a musty smell.

So, let's give this basket a deep cleaning because I want to hang it over my mantel. But before we dive in, I want to share that this method is for baskets that you don't have anything to lose in case it gets damaged. Meaning do not try this on a basket you really love and want to keep.

First, fill a tub or kitchen sink with gentle dishwashing liquid and clean water. I used Dawn dishwashing liquid.

If you want to bleach the color of the basket you can add bleach now. But if you simply wash it with detergent there is a good chance it will lighten a little naturally.

Add a 1/8 cup of bleach if you want to, otherwise, let's move forward with cleaning without bleach.

Now dust off your entire basket with a clean Dollar Tree paintbrush.

Next, dip the basket down into the bath of soapy water. Move it up and down a few times to let the water flow between the wicker fibers. Woven baskets can collect dust between the fibers.

If you have really bad stains or grease of any kind on the wicker, use an old toothbrush or brush to clean between. For best results, it's a good idea to take special care and be very gentle because when the wicker gets wet it can be bent or moved easily.

Once you feel like the wicker is clean, rinse it off gently with clear water.

Final Steps for Cleaning your Wicker Baskets

Place it in the sun to air dry.

Now let's leave them in the sun for a couple of hours. Keep a watch on the weather outside just in case it decides to rain on you.

A couple of hours have passed so let's look at the two baskets.

Wow! Do you see what I see? After a thorough cleaning, the small basket got a lot brighter and lighter.

The coloring got lighter from what it looked like in the beginning. I can imagine if I used bleach it would have lightened even more.

See how simple it is to clean baskets? Cleaning a basket isn't rocket science. These cleaning methods are simple and safe for your wicker baskets.

Final Thoughts

Now you might be wondering, can I clean wicker on chairs and outdoor furniture using this method? The answer is yes, but I would consider leaving out the bleach unless you want to bleach the wicker and take your chances damaging it.

You might also be wondering why I buy wicker baskets in thrift and antique stores. Well, different styles of baskets give so much character to any decorations. Wicker items are so versatile. The different types of wicker, colors, and textures add a lot of interest to your home decor.

I love using baskets in so many ways. Here are a few ideas for decorating with wicker baskets.

First, you can hang them on the front of a mantel as I did in the photo above. And you can hang them on walls like here in my tutorial on how to hang baskets on a wall.

Here is another idea where I placed the basket we washed today above our mantel. Hanging a basket over and on a mantel is a fun and creative idea. If you need guidance on how to decorate a mantel, check out this tutorial on decorating a spring mantel.

Baskets look really pretty on top of bookcases or cabinets. I love adding larger baskets up high.

These two baskets are fun because the large one is another basket from the antique store in my hometown. And the other smaller basket is brand new. It was a gift from my hubby for Mother's Day.

I share lots of other finds from thrift stores in my decorating from thrift stores post.

Even More Ways to use your Baskets

Here is another idea where I took a small basket and turned it into a pendant light. This DIY basket pendant light project is super easy and you can use all kinds of different baskets from old to new.

Another fun way to decorate with baskets is hanging a market basket on a hook. This is one of my favorite baskets. Fill it with fresh flowers daily or a few days at a time.

Doesn't that looks so pretty!!

And last, probably the most important tip for decorating with baskets is storage. There are so many easy ways you can use baskets for storage.

Here is an example where we used baskets from the dollar store to decorate and use for storage in my niece's rainbow toddler girl bedroom. Here's a post with more ideas on how to decorate with wicker baskets.

You don't have to spend a lot on baskets. You can find them at thrift stores, flea markets, garage sales, and even Etsy is a popular choice. Also, for new baskets, shop in regular stores and dollar stores. We found the ones in my niece's bedroom at the Dollar General. If you take good care of your wicker baskets they will last a long time. If you want to change up the look of your basket, check out my post about how to paint wicker baskets.

Now that you know all about cleaning wicker baskets, I would love to hear about the basket you are planning to clean. Is it old or new and what story does it have behind it? Share in the comments.

Good luck and I cannot wait to hear all about it!

Happy Decorating!

How to Clean a Wicker Basket

When you buy an old basket, you are purchasing other things that have been in contact with that basket like smoke and pet hair, to name a few. Learning how to clean a wicker basket will extend its life and beauty.

Active Time 30 minutes

Additional Time 2 hours

Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes

Difficulty Easy

Tools

Instructions

First, remove the heavier dust carefully with a clean Dollar Tree paintbrush or a soft brush would work, especially between the wicker weave and around the base of the basket.
Next, use a lint-free old dishtowel or soft cloth that is damp with water and started wiping it from the top down.
Each time your towel looks dirty, clean it out and brush the damp cloth over the wood again.
Continue until you've wiped down the entire piece.
Leave the basket set outside in the sun until it was completely dry.
Let's talk about baskets that you care more about getting good and clean and less about saving them.
First, fill a tub or kitchen sink with gentle dishwashing liquid and clean water.
If you want to bleach the color of the basket you can add 1/8 cup bleach now. But if you simply wash it with detergent there is a good chance it will lighten a little naturally.
Now dust off your entire basket with a clean Dollar Tree paintbrush.
Next, dip the basket down into the bath of soapy water. Move it up and down a few times to let the water flow between the wicker fibers.
If you have really bad stains or grease of any kind on the wicker, use an old toothbrush or brush to clean between.
Once you feel like the wicker is clean, rinse it off gently with clear water.
Place it in the sun to air dry for a couple of hours.

Notes

The basket coloring may get lighter from what it looked like in the beginning.

The post How to Clean a Wicker Baskets: Step by Step Guide appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

How to Organize Side by Side Refrigerator the Best Way

Linda McDonald — Sat, 28 May 2022 09:30:00 +0000

After spending a week researching and looking for just the right storage containers to organize my fridge here is my best advice on how to organize your side by side refrigerator. We will talk about what to place where and why. And how to make it all look pretty.

After a week of research and looking for just the right containers I wanted to save you time and share with you how to organize a side by side refrigerator.

Have you ever admired those refrigerators that look so organized and pretty? The ones with all the matching storage containers and the liquids in pretty bottles.

I am drawn to anything organizing so when I learned that my new fridge was not coming in for another 6 months I decided to give my older Kenmore side by side some attention.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

How to Organize a Side by Side Refrigerator

To begin here is a step-by-step list of fridge cleaning and organizing and a shopping list of supplies.

The first step is to remove everything from one shelf at a time (trash anything that has passed its expiration date)
Clean each shelf, drawer, and fridge body on the interior using Dawn dishwashing liquid, a soft sponge, magic eraser, paper towels, or lint-free dishtowels
Place new containers and items into your fridge and organize them into categories like produce, meat, leftovers, and so on.
Transfer foods to jars, bottles, and bins (Here are the ones I used, glass jars with snap lids, long narrow acrylic boxes, egg drawer, white ceramic butter dish, glass liquid jugs, a basket, a small basket for a drawer, produce to a crisper container for fruit, a large container with sealed lid for vegetables)
Label containers and drawers with label maker

Shop Supplies to Organize your Fridge

Now that we have an action plan and supplies, let's break this down. I will show you each step of the way and explain why we did things the way we did.

Remove Foods from Fridge

Begin by removing every item from inside your fridge working from the top down. Look at expiration dates and toss food if it has expired.

The best practice is to work one shelf at a time so only remove items on the top shelf first and then move to the next shelf after cleaning and replacing the top shelf.

Next, any food that needs to stay refrigerated place them in a second fridge if you have one. We have an extra one in our garage but you may have a mini-fridge somewhere. If you don't have a second fridge, leave the perishable items that can spoil in the back on another shelf for now.

Once you have pulled everything off of the top shelf, remove the shelf for washing. Remember, we will be working one shelf at a time.

Best Way to Clean a Side by Side Refrigerator Interior

I like to use Dawn dishwashing liquid, a soft sponge, and hot water. Give each shelf and drawer a good bath and dry them with paper towels or lint-free dishtowels.

Next, take your sponge and wipe down the interior of the refrigerator body. Again, start at the top and work your way down. That way any debris will fall to the bottom and you can collect it at the end.

If you see any areas that need a little more than a sponge try a magic eraser. I have some scuff marks on the edge of one of my drawers. A magic eraser got rid of it easily.

Test a small area first to make sure it doesn't harm the finish.

Now collect all the new containers and give them a good warm water bath too. Dry them with paper towels or dish towels and set them aside to use when organizing each shelf.

Side by Side Refrigerator Organization

As you work your way down cleaning all the shelves, think through how to organize your fridge by zones. I shared how to organize your kitchen by zones and we are going to do the fridge the same way.

For example, all produce will go into the produce drawer and the berry basket will be set above it on the shelf. I will show you more as we go through the fridge.

Also, consider placing your new storage containers in the fridge as you work without filling them. That way you can return it if you don't use it.

Storing Meat in the Meat Drawer

Make sure to always keep the meat in this drawer because it is designed to keep it at the right temperature so they don't spoil. Items we store in this drawer are lunch meats, raw meat while it is thawing out, bacon, breakfast sausage, and more.

We only keep the meat in this drawer. Make sure to place the meat in ziplock bags or containers with a sealed lid.

Organizing Produce

Next up from the bottom of my fridge is the produce drawer. Some refrigerators have a produce drawer with two climate options. One is for high humidity and the other setting is for low humidity.

Here is a post on how to use the crisper drawer and it tells you what fruit and vegetables need high and low humidity. If your fridge has two crisper drawers, you can have one set for high humidity and the other for low humidity.

If you are like me, you probably only have one crisper drawer in your side-by-side fridge. I set my crisper drawer to high humidity and place items that need high humidity inside.

For my salad items like spinach, carrots, cucumbers, celery, and such, I placed them in a sealed container. I eat a salad every day for lunch so it is super easy to grab the container and make my salad. And I have found that my salad foods last longer in a sealed container.

For my berries, I use this acrylic container with a basket inside. This container has a venting option on the top. If you place berries inside make sure to open the vent so moisture is allowed to flow out.

One tip for determining if you need to open a vent or not is to think about how the produce arrives from the grocery store. For example, all berries come with vented holes on the bottom and sometimes a white absorbent piece of material in the bottom.

Copy their lead and store your fruit and vegetables the same way in your fridge.

Now I set my berry container on the shelf above my produce drawer and not inside the high humidity drawer. This helps it to stay fresh longer. Plus it makes getting berries for a snack easier.

One last thought. Do not clean your berries before storing them. They will last longer if you wait to clean them when you are ready to eat them. Unless you plan to eat them all in a day or two. Then it is fine to clean them.

Organizing Bread in Your Fridge

Some of you might be wondering why we have a dedicated space for bread. Well, years ago we changed the way we eat. We eat fresh foods with fresh ingredients now and steer clear of boxed foods and processed foods.

Because we eat more fresh, our bread goes bad fast because they do not have added preservatives. So we have found that bread lasts longer in the fridge and freezer.

So to make this easy and beautiful we decided to place all our bread in a basket on the bottom shelf. Doesn't this look pretty!

You will be surprised at all the things you can put in your breadbasket. When my daughter brings home donuts they fit in nicely. My daughter also loves pita bread so that goes in there too. And of course, my gluten and dairy-free bread fit too.

Organizing Dairy Drawer

We have a small drawer in the middle of the side-by-side fridge we use for dairy items. In this drawer, we mostly store cheeses. To make it more organized, I placed a small basket I found at Dollar Tree and fill it with sliced cheese.

Dollar Tree has loads of storage containers you can use to organize your fridge, especially when you have smaller items. Last year, I organized my sewing supplies with Dollar Tree containers. Talk about making sewing easier. Now I can find everything easily.

Organizing the Middle Shelf

The next shelf is perfect for leftover foods or food items that come and go on a daily basis. We use our middle shelves for all those things.

If you use all the same size containers for leftover foods then this shelf will look nice all the time. Also, use square containers that way they fill in the corners of your fridge. This also looks nice.

Next, if you have adjustable shelves, position your next shelf up a little higher so you can fit a drawer under it. We choose to place the egg drawer on the right side. It is still high enough so we can fit taller things on the shelf below it.

Now if your milk is spoiling quickly, consider placing it in the back of the fridge on this shelf. The coolest place in your fridge is the back of a shelf. The fridge door is the opposite because it doesn't stay as cool but we will talk about organizing the door items soon.

This shelf is also great for containers that store can goods like sodas. We have soda and water bottles but we keep them in the fridge in the garage. Or you can add a clear bin for items like applesauce, Caprisun, and other prepackaged items.

Organizing the Top Shelf

Last on our list of interior shelves to organize is the top shelf. Top shelves are a great place to store any condiments or dry goods. Because of the sustainability of our dry goods, we need to keep many of them in our fridge in airtight containers.

A beautiful way to store dry goods is in glass containers with a snap-down lid. I placed down the middle all my flours and grits containers. These stay fresher longer and keep their nutrient content better if refrigerated.

Next to the dry goods are two containers to hold items and condiments that are used most often. We use our syrups and jellies the most so they have a home on the top. If you have two similar items, be sure to put the new item in the back and use the older item first.

Organizing the Doors of a Side by Side Fridge

Now let's first talk about the top shelves on the doors. Remember me saying that the best place for milk is on the back of a shelf. Well, the refrigerator door is an easy access place to store butter and drinks but if you are not drinking your milk quickly then place it on the shelf in the back away from the warmest part of the fridge.

We use real butter and leave it out on the counter. If you are wondering if that will spoil and make you sick, I am here to say we have done this for decades and no one has gotten sick yet.

However, we do have a house with ac so if your home is not cool inside then I would research to see if it is safe.

Now remove items on each shelf moving from the top down and clean the shelf. Once the shelf is clean and dry simply replace it and place items on the shelf that are similar or the same.

On the top is our butter. Because I have an allergy to dairy products, I found this butter dish that fits perfectly for my vegan butter.

Next are our drink shelves. After I washed and dried them, I place teas, coconut milk, and other taller items on the top shelf.

I find my snap top lid glass bottles at TJ Maxx but the smaller jar with the gold lid is actually an apple cyder vinegar jar from Trader Joe's. I loved the shape and the gold lid. The size was perfect for my coconut milk that comes in a can.

The next shelf is for more drinks. On this shelf, I wanted matching containers for our milk, almond milk, and orange juice.

I transferred all the liquids into the jars that I found at Target. To keep my drinks fresh, I plan to use all the liquid or toss it if it has expired before refilling it with the milk and such.

I love the shape and size of the milk container I found at Target. Having all the same size containers make this shelf look so tidy. I also found this similar glass milk container at Amazon. It seems to be a thicker glass and I love the modern cow design on the side.

If you have children, consider a plastic version so it doesn't break if they accidentally drop it.

The next two shelves are a great place for condiments. To save time in the future I decided to keep my condiments in their containers. Let me explain more.

When you come home from the grocery store if you keep your condiments in their containers and simply place them on the shelf then you are saving time. It may not look as pretty and it won't look as pretty on your dining table during dinner but it will save time.

Simply place similar condiments together. I place mayo, ketchup, and mustard kind of condiments on the top shelf of the lower two. This is because we use them the most.

On the bottom are vinegar, soy sauce, pickles, salad dressings, and similar condiments.

Adding Foods to Bins

Can you believe we are finished organizing our side-by-side fridge? Now it is time to place foods into the new bins.

Fill the bottles with milk, juices, and other liquids if you haven't already.

Eggs in the egg drawer.

Shredded cheese, goat cheese, cream cheese, or any other cheese in their containers and place inside of the dairy drawer. Make sure to use your label maker and label them as you go.

Speaking of labeling your food. For the most part, I can see what is inside the container so I don't need to label everything but make sure to label foods that look similar like milk and such.

If you don't want your labels to show you can place them on the bottom. Also, labels will help your family put things in the proper place. So if you have the dairy, produce and meat drawer labeled neatly then they are more likely to place those items in that drawer.

The best way to label your items in your fridge is with this label maker. This is my new favorite contraption. It prints labels with curved edges and you use their app to create the writing.

I love that you can change the font, size, and much more with the app. Then once you have it just like you want it, you simply print.

My items have been labeled for over a week now and the lettering hasn't smudged or faded. The labels still stick perfectly. Also, when I labeled one thing wrongly, I found the label easy to remove so I could put another one.

Last, add those condiments you use all the time on the upper shelves in the baskets or you can place your soda can drinks there too.

Final thoughts

Now that our organized refrigerator is finished, here are a few last thoughts to keep your fridge organized and maximize your fridge space.

First, once a week go through leftover foods and toss anything that is old. And place leftovers in smaller, airtight food storage containers.

Do not place a large cooking pan filled with cooked food in it in your fridge. It takes up too much storage space and if it has a tin foil covering it then it will spoil faster anyways.

Convert those leftovers to tightly sealed smaller containers. The only exception to this rule is holidays when you know everyone is going to eat the food again that evening.

Do not overfill your fridge to minimize food waste. A refrigerator that is overfull and things are stacked to the top is not good because you will forget what is in the back of your fridge and it is too much trouble to pull everything out every time you want to look for something.

You will also save money keeping your fridge stocked minimally. Plan your meals for the week and purchase groceries based on that list.

We use our notes app on our iphone as a grocery list. If someone needs something we are all linked and simply place the item on the list. You can also use this handy shopping list we made. Simply download and print it. Leave it on the counter or on the fridge. This will let you spend less time at the grocery store.

And last, consider cleaning and organizing your fridge when it is close to making a grocery shopping trip. When the fridge is more empty is a great time to do this project.

Well, I think that covers all my tips and tricks on organizing a side-by-side fridge. If you need help cleaning your water dispenser I have a post and Youtube video on that too.

I hope this DIY has been helpful and I hope it has inspired you to clean out your fridge and give it good organizing.

Happy Decorating!

How to Organize Side by Side Refrigerator the Best Way

Here is a step-by-step list of fridge cleaning and organizing and a shopping list of supplies.

Active Time 3 hours

Total Time 3 hours

Difficulty Easy

Materials

egg drawer
white ceramic butter dish
glass liquid jugs
small basket for a drawer
crisper container for fruit
a large container with sealed lid for vegetables
acrylic container with a basket inside

Tools

Instructions

Begin by removing every item from inside your fridge working from the top down.
Look at expiration dates and toss food if it has expired.
Work one shelf at a time so only remove items on the top shelf first and then move to the next shelf after cleaning and replacing the top shelf.
Any food that needs to stay refrigerated place them in a second fridge if you have one or leave the perishable items that can spoil in the back on another shelf for now.
Give each shelf and drawer a good bath with Dawn liquid soap and a soft sponge and dry them with paper towels or lint-free dishtowels.
Take your sponge and wipe down the interior of the refrigerator body. Start at the top and work your way down. That way any debris will fall to the bottom and you can collect it at the end.
If you see any areas that need a little more than a sponge try a magic eraser.
Collect all the new containers and give them a good warm water bath too. Dry them with the paper towels or dishtowel and set them aside to use when organizing each shelf.
Make sure to always keep the meat in this drawer because it is designed to keep it at the right temperature so they don't spoil.
If your fridge has two crisper drawers, you can have one set for high humidity and the other for low humidity.
Keep salad items like spinach, carrots, cucumbers, celery, and such, I placed them in a sealed container.
For berries, try the acrylic container with basket.
If you don't often eat bread, try storing it in a basket in your fridge to keep it fresh longer.
Keep your dairy items stored together in a drawer and use small baskets to keep like items together.
The middle shelf is perfect for leftover foods or food items that come and go on a daily basis.
Try using all the same size containers for leftover foods then this shelf will look nice all the time. Also, use square containers that way they fill in the corners of your fridge. This also looks nice.
If you have adjustable shelves, position your next shelf up a little higher so you can fit a drawer under it. We choose to place the egg drawer on the right side.
If your milk is spoiling quickly, consider placing it in the back of the fridge on this shelf.
This shelf is also great for containers that store can goods like sodas.
Top shelves are a great place to store any condiments or dry goods.
A beautiful way to store dry goods is in glass containers with a snap-down lid.
Use containers to hold items and condiments that are used most often.
The refrigerator door is an easy access place to store butter and drinks.
Now remove items on each shelf moving from the top down and clean the shelf. Once the shelf is clean and dry simply replace it and place items on the shelf that are similar or the same.
Having all the same size containers for your liquids make this shelf look so tidy.
The next two shelves are a great place for condiments.
Simply place similar condiments together.
Use a label maker on foods that look similar like milk and such. Labels will help your family put things in the proper place.

Notes

Once a week go through leftover foods and toss anything that is old. And place leftovers in smaller, airtight food storage containers.
Do not place a large cooking pan filled with cooked food in it in your fridge. It takes up too much storage space and if it has a tin foil covering it then it will spoil faster anyways.
Convert those leftovers too tightly sealed smaller containers.
Do not overfill your fridge to minimize food waste.
You will also save money keeping your fridge stocked minimally.
Consider using a notes app on your phone as a grocery list or keep a paper list by the fridge.
Consider cleaning and organizing your fridge when it is close to making a grocery shopping trip. When the fridge is more empty is a great time to do this project.

The post How to Organize Side by Side Refrigerator the Best Way appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

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