My Latest Flea Market Finds–Road Trip Treasures

October 11, 2016

Whenever we drive to see my mom in Oklahoma, we plan a few pit stops at flea markets and antique stores along the way. I typically find an item or two but nothing to brag about. This trip however was different. I lucked upon lots of unique pieces at great prices. Most of what I found will go in my Etsy shop but I am keeping a couple of items for myself.

Staffordshire dogs are really popular right now and I found a couple of different dog pieces. The first was this single dalmatian figurine. I know these were originally sold in a set as bookends but as a single it makes a great decor pieces for a bookshelf.

The other dog pieces I found was this set of dalmatian bookends. I’m tempted to keep these but into the Etsy shop they’ll go.

This blue and white lidded jar is so cute. If it wasn’t for its petite size you’d think it was a garden stool. I snapped this piece up for $5.00 and I’m going to keep it for myself.

I’m also on the look out for brass trays and this one had beautiful details. It’s pretty large in size and would make a great bar tray.

I love milk glass and see these bowls quite often but have never purchased one. The embossed fruit motif on the bottom is so intricate and pretty and the bowl is super heavy.

I don’t know how long the brass pineapple trend is going to last but I keep buying them if I can find them at a good price. I already own two so I’m going to be listing this lidded piece in the shop after I clean it up a bit.

This pretty brass letter holder has me in a quandary…sell or keep? The design is really pretty and you can tell its a great quality piece. Since I have good luck selling letter holders in my shop I’ll probably sell this one.

I also found a silver-plated one that needs some TLC. It was less than $3.00 so if it doesn’t clean up well I’ll just keep it.

My favorite find of the trip was this ceramic elephant stool. It’s in great condition and I practically stool it from the dealer with the price they had on it.

Don’t you just love my latest flea market finds?

For those of you living in Memphis, you might want to check out the Antique Mall Warehouse. I found most of the chinoiserie and brass pieces there.

If you want to check out my Etsy shop, head here.

Happy hunting!

Best of Etsy: Shop Nancy Nikko Design

August 8, 2016

I recently came across an amazing paper goods shop on Etsy and was smitten with everything they make. Nancy Nikko Design specializes in personalized stationery, labels and bookplates, all with beautifully illustrated images, graphics and typography. I am especially drawn to the chinoiserie designs and home decor illustrations and love her collection of business cards.

There are over 800 items in Nancy’s shop, perfect for your personal stationery suite or for gift giving. You’ll also find a collection of party decor, kids stationery and art prints and most of the custom wine labels, personalized stationery and invitations can accommodate color changes, and additional text upon request.

FYI– Nancy will have her Christmas and holiday designs available in late September.

Picking my favorites items was a hard task but I did manage to round-up a few of them for you below. To view the entire Nancy Nikko Design shop, head here.

♦♦

Nancy Nikko Design

Chinoiserie Memory Card Game (I think these would also look great as a framed collection)

Shop Bookplates (the perfect gift for anyone that still loves coffee table books)

Shop Stationery (personalized stationery is such a thoughtful gift)

Shop Business Cards (every savvy business owner needs a card that makes a statement)

Shop Thank You Cards (you can never have too many of these, especially if they are cute)

Shop Place Cards (a fun way to personalize your party table)

Shop Custom Wine Bottle Labels (such a great design touch for a special event, holiday or gift)

Limoncello Label Tags (you’re going to have a hard time picking a favorite from these designs)

Shop Art Prints (great prices on chinoiserie inspired designs)

♦♦

Nancy Nikko Design is one of the most beautiful hand-crafted paper goods line I’ve come across in a long time.

Enjoy shopping and let me know which items are your favorite.

all images via Nancy Nikko Design

A Few Of My Favorite Blue & White Vignettes

August 3, 2016

♦♦

♦ My Favorite Blue & White Vignettes ♦

It’s no secret that I’m a fan of all things blue and white especially blue and white chinoiserie decor. Although I really started building my blue and white collection, this classic and timeless look is one I’ve always been inspired by. Here’s a look at a few of my all-time favorite blue & white vignettes.

♦♦

Blue is a color that mixes well with just about other color but one of my favorite color combos is blue and orange. This vignette is the perfect way to dress up a small foyer and make a statement with just a few dynamic pieces.

via

Or you can keep the color palette to just blue and white. Don’t you just love how the lines on the mirror replicate the lines on the console? #detailsmakedesign

via

I’m a sucker for blue and white ceramic pieces and this vignette was built to showcase each and every decorative piece.

via

Nothing makes a dynamic tablescape like this collected grouping of objects you see in this vignette. If you ever come across a blue and white piece missing its lid, keep in mind that it can be used as a flower vase.

via

What’s not to love about this bar cart vignette? The blue and blue pieces add personality and relate to that amazing wall decor.

via

Then there’s the idea of using blue and white to dress up a party table. So much inspiration in this one beautiful vignette!

via

A blue and white statement lamp is a great way to add impact and elegance to a bedroom.

via

If you’re an avid flea market shopper like me, keep your eyes open for inexpensive blue and white plates. Hung on a wall, a collection of plates is really dynamic.

via

So who else out there loves blue & white as much as I do?

If you’re shopping for some budget friendly pieces, check out a few I’ve come across recently…

1)Blue & White Vase–$24.99 @ At Home // 2) CHD Home Textiles Shower Curtain–$14.99 @TJMaxx.com // 3) Happiness Jar–$14.99 @ TJMaxx.com

4) David Textiles Ginger Jars Collection 44″ Cotton Fabric By The Yard–$4.97/yd @ Wal-Mart //5) American Atelier Acrylic Chair–$129.99 @ TJMaxx.com

6) Blue and White Ceramic Jar–-$14.99 @ TJMaxx.com // 7) E & J Home Embroidered Pillow–$19.99 @ TJMaxx.com // 9) Set of 4 Tidbit Plates–$15.00 @ TJMaxx.com

Happy Shopping!

Favorite Posts, Pins and Product of The Week

June 18, 2016

It was a good week around my parts. In addition to getting lots done and finishing up a Room-to-Room e-design project (which I’ll share soon), I spent some time catching up with my favorite bloggers. So much great content this week so I’ve got lots to share with you. Enjoy!

♦♦♦

FAVORITE POSTS

After reading this great post, I realize I need to step-up my wind-down routine at the end the day. Tiffany shares some great products and great rituals that I’m sure will inspire you too. #investinyourself

I’m a big fan of designer Tobi Fairley and loved these simple tips for pattern mixing that she shared this week. #gobigorgohome

Kristin’s bedroom refresh is just beautiful. #chinoiserie

If you write a design blog or have an online shop, you’ll find these styling and photo tips helpful. Marian always creates the most beautiful vignettes. #detailsmatter

♦♦♦

FAVORITE PINS

This is a favorite pin of the week because it just exudes happiness and because I’m excited to see the new Oh Joy! collection at Target. p.s. new collection will be released in stores tomorrow.

This 4th of July tablescape is really stunning and would be so simple to pull together.

I wrote about my love the Tiny Houses here and if I could get Anna White to build it, I’d be all in. The dining table, desk is just amazing! You can tour her tiny house here and get free-plans to build your own here.

♦♦♦

FAVORITE PRODUCTS

You can find any and everything on Etsy, even beautiful handmade blue and white #chinoisierie inspired lampshades.

Jump on this deal folks…blue and white jar for $14.96! All there blue and white ceramic pieces are on sale.

In my opinion, a girl can never have too many tote bags and this one is perfect for summer beach trips.

I so need this mug! It’s less than $20 and everything is 30% right now.

Well, that’s a wrap for this edition of Favorite Things.

I’m off to enjoy the weekend. And I’m excited is only going to be in the 80’s and the humidity is not going to be off the charts. #southernlife

Summer Bedroom Refresh–Chinoiserie Inspired

June 17, 2016

I’ve been thinking about giving our bedroom a refresh for a while now and I think I’m going to pull the trigger.

This is the current look of the bedroom–a mix of wood, black & white accents and pops of color.

My love affair with blue and white has me thinking of a look that incorporate navy, black, white and pops of color.

Here’s the Chinoiserie Inspired inspiration board I came up with…

Since the black armoire and chair will be staying, I need to find a duvet cover that can tie the navy and black together. About a month ago I spotted a Ralph Lauren set at HomeGoods but decided to pass on it. Now I can’t get it out of my mind. I’ve been searching for it again but so far I have only found it in a king size and we need a queen. The pattern is called Tamarind and I did find it on Amazon (more expensive) so if I don’t have any luck at HomeGoods I have another option.

When it comes the accessories, I’m planning to change the black drapes to a dark navy and I’m looking at this pink pillow…

and some chinoiserie inspired artwork from Etsy.

And of course I’ll incorporate some blue and white ceramic pieces into the mix.

As always things may change before it’s all said and down but I’m excited to create a fresh new look for our space.

DIY Toile Tablecloth (and a Giveaway)

June 7, 2016

I saw it…I admired it…and then I decided to make it!

One day when I was surfing through the Neiman Marcus website, I spotted a beautiful green and white toile tablecloth. It had everything going for it except the price ($$$). I continued to search for more budget friendly options but the only color I found at the price I wanted to pay was blue and white.

Well, the universe must have been hearing my cries because just about the time I was going to settle for a blue and white tablecloth, Cutting Edge Stencils contacted me and asked if I wanted to review one of their stencil designs. A quick review of their collection and I said YES. They had the perfect toile stencil so I could make my own toile tablecloth and save lots of money. Plus I always love a good craft challenge.

♦ DIY Toile Tablecloth ♦

white tablecloth with a vibrant green paint color

you know I love chinoiserie

of course I had to style the table using some of my blue and white pieces

a fun accent color makes it even merrier

lots of vintage, thrifted and budget friendly treasure to give the table even more personality

So what do you think? Pretty darn cute if I may say so myself.

*****

If you’ve never given stenciling a try, I urge you to do it. It’s easy and a great way to create custom decor for your home. Making my tablecloth took just a couple of hours and a few supplies. Here’s how…

Supply list:

White Tablecloth –It’s best to get a 100% cotton or cotton blend which will allow the paint to absorb better

Secret Garden Toile Stencil (if toile isn’t your look, there are tons of designs to choose from)

Foam paint roller

Acrylic Paint –I used Anita’s acrylic paint in Christmas Green and purchased 2 of the large size bottles

Textile Medium–creates a soft, flexible and washable paint surface

Painters Tape, Spray Adhesive, Plastic paint tray or disposable paper plate

Gather your supplies and lay the tablecloth out on a smooth, firm surface. I used my dining room table and placed a plastic drop cloth under the white tablecloth to protect the table surface.
To ensure a clean paint application, use spray adhesive on the back of your stencil to prevent any paint bleeding. Spray the back of the stencil, let it sit for a few minutes and then place the stencil onto the tablecloth, starting in the upper right corner.
Mix 2 parts paint with 1 part textile medium and pour paint onto the disposable plate.
Coat your roller with paint and then roll the roller on the paper towel to remove most of the paint. You want the roller to have very little paint on it when you begin to reduce paint bleed.
Paint over the stencil–you may need to go over the stencil 2 or 3 times to get the depth of color you want.
Let the stencil sit for just a minute and then remove it. Move your stencil and repeat the process until you’ve covered the entire tablecloth.

Once my tablecloth was painted, I decided to add a decorative trim along the edge and added a canary yellow woven gimp I purchased on clearance at Hobby Lobby. I love the pop of color!

I’m thrilled with how my Toile Tablecloth turned out and will definitely to enjoy using it year round.

Now it’s your turn to get in on the stencil fun. Cutting Edge Stencils is giving away a $50 gift certificate to one of my readers. Enter below for your chance to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer : This is a sponsored post but all ideas and opinions are 100% my own.

DIY Chinoiserie Playing Cards

May 20, 2016

You all know I’m having a love affair with all things blue and white chinoiserie. A couple of months ago I picked up a pack of blue and white scrapbook paper from Hobby Lobby and have had so much fun crafting and creating with all the beautiful designs.

I’m also kind of addicted to custom monogram stickers from Zazzle. I’ve ordered several sets and I’m using them on everything from stationery to tabletop decor. This green and white design with navy monogram is my most recent purchase.

And my latest craft project was to transform one of the many basic decks of cards I own into something a little more stylish.

What started as this….

Got UpStyled into these…

It was really simple to make these cards and it only took a couple of supplies.

How to:

Step 1: Coat the back side of a piece of 12″ x 12″ decorative paper with Mod Podge. It will take several sheets to cover all the cards in the deck. You’ll notice that I used several different paper patterns to make my set.

Step 2: While wet, place the playing cards onto the Mod Podge surface with the number side facing up.

Step 3: Let the adhesive dry and then cut out each card.

Step 4: Flip the cards over to the decorative side and adhere monogram sticker in the center.

This is a fun project that would make a great gift so give it a try.

Treasure Hunting At Scott Antique Market

May 17, 2016

It’s been quite a while since I’ve visited the Scott Antique Market and even longer since I’ve done a post about the market.

Last Thursday I woke up and decided to make the trek down to Scott’s to check out the show and see if I cold snag any great pieces. The Scott Antique Market is definitely one of my favorite antique shows and every time I go I’m wowed by all the vintage, antique and sometimes new pieces that the dealers have. This market I spotted lots of great pieces…

There were a lot of really great oversized mirrors. I can envision this beauty in a foyer or positioned at the top of a stair landing.

One of the great things about the Scott Antique Market is the number of custom furniture dealers that attend. If you have a challenging area or simply desire a custom piece, you can find many options at this market.

I loved this upholstered banquet which if just made for a breakfast or dining area.

The turned wood arm-chair with grey linen fabric. Perfect for a beach house.

My friend Julie whose an upholsterer and owns The Upholstery Fashionista is known for her faux animal skin upholstered pieces. She sells pieces in this fabric every month and these chairs were her newest pieces. She’s also known for the details she puts in every piece like the burlap back and sides of these chairs.

Cut stools in a fun fabric.

I spotted a lot of great farm tables this show.

A pretty bench cushion sofa with great lines and a tufted back.

I adored this bench and the fabric it was in.

The table would make a great kitchen island.

Lots of classic vintage furniture with beautiful hardware and details.

Check out the carved wood detail on this piece.

A beautiful buffet with gorgeous carved doors.

There is always lots of blue and white chinoiserie pottery. This bowl was oversized and I loved the octagon shape.

These foo dogs were super-size.

Lots of blue and white ginger jars and vases.

This dealer has the most gorgeous preserved flowers and arrangements and his booth is always packed.

I’m on the hunt for vintage Japanese calligraphy brushes but these were incredibly expensive so I passed.

One of my favorite dealers always have unique bottles and jars. Most of these were $35 or less.

If you love industrial pieces you’ll find lots to choose from at Scott.

May of the outdoor dealers sell vintage olive buckets which can be used for plants, magazines or just about anything.n

There is always an abundance of wood crates..some old and some reproduction.

One of the permanent outdoor dealers always have a good collection of brass door hardware.

I’d love to create a wall display with a grouping of these brass numbers.

I’ve mentioned before that the market is made up of two buildings so there are hundreds of dealers to shop from and you never know what you’ll find. There are a couple of dealers that I always shop with and here are a few of the pieces I scored this market.

I wasn’t really looking for anything for me this show but was focused on finding a few items for my Etsy shop. But I did find a few things I’m going to keep.

I sell a lot of these silver-plated toast rack so I buy them whenever I come across a great deal. I also bought this brass shell dish which need some major polishing and this pewter pineapple dish. All of these items will be going in my shop.

Vintage globes are hard to come across at a good price so I was happy to find this one for less than $10.

I bought this pair of brass candle holders for $6.00. Score!

And lucked upon this brass book stand. I’ve sold 3 or 4 of the in my shop before.

I scored this beautiful oversized blue and white vase for $10–another great find.

And I’m always on the hunt for Christmas items for the shop. These napkins were just .50 cents each.

And my favorite finds of the show were these acrylic drawer pulls for just $2.00 each! These babies and big and chunky and I’m keeping these.

And these Staffordshire Dogs which I scored for $20.

I must say, I had a pretty good haul this show.

♦♦♦

If you’ve never been to Scott Antique Market before but are planning a visit, here are few shopping tips:

Tips for Scott Antique Market:

* The market opens at 10:30 on the second Thursday of each month (but get there about 20 minutes early as they tend to let cars in early)

* There is a shuttle bus (Fri, Sat, Sun) that will shuttle you between the two buildings (runs about every 15 minutes)

* There are food vendors on site and some of them look really good.

* If you want a great deal, shop the outdoor vendors. Many of them shut-down when the weather is not but those that stay open are willing to negotiate.

* Bring cash–a lot of vendors take checks but you’ll get a better deal if you’re negotiating with cash–{cash machines on site}

* Saturday night of the market there is an auction that takes place where great deals can be had. More details here.

* Bring your own tote bags or rolling bags. Most vendors have hand-me-down plastic grocery bags for you to put your treasures in.

* Plan on spending a full day at the show to see both buildings and the outdoor spaces.

Hope you enjoyed this overview of Scott Antique Market and hope to see you at the show next month.