| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| silver3wings |
Posted - Oct 09 2011 : 5:16:38 PM
For a while now, I've been researching ways to spruce up my home without making it toxic. I have chemical sensitivities. So, that is no easy task. Much of what I have learned includes ways to make use of what I already have. I've learned how to repair a quilt, and spruce it up with some additional flair, such as a colorful border or unique patches. These can be made from fabric leftovers from other projects. Since older materials have had time to off-gas, buying second hand items and fixing them up to suit your style is a good idea. You just have to be sure to avoid lead-based paints. I did this by purchasing a new-to-me bed frame from a neighbor and donating my old one to charity. It really changes the look of the whole room. New curtains can be made from re-purposed fabrics. Attaching buttons or other found objects to lampshades is another way to make a change without bringing in new or toxic items. I've also researched using milk paints for when I need to re-paint. Just by rethinking some of the things you already own, you can make a room look completely different.
Healthy People; Healthy Planet
www.healthypeoplellc.com
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| 2 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| batznthebelfry |
Posted - Oct 14 2011 : 03:11:01 AM
What wonderful ideas hens! I too, have mostly hand me downs or freebies in my house & I too change their look either with fabric or paint...love milk paint...I have learned to take sheets that fit old beds & re-make them into curtains, pillows, laundry bags ect...I also use those fancy table runners or placemats as curtains.....I took free burlap coffee bags I had & recovered a rocking chair, cost was only for the tacks...if I have shelves that aren't too great I tear them down & redo them in to different stronger shelves & boxes...Even old rugs & carpet get reused if possible in areas like the laundry room or if really bad they go in my garden over the winter to cover the beds or get cut to make the isles between the rows...I took an old wool rug my cats decided to mark & put it under the picnic table in the yard so no grass would grow under it so I didn't have to move it while mowing....being out in the elements took away the icky smells..it is now breaking down but thats alright....In the 22 years my hubby & I have been together we have only bought a recliner & futon sofa ( for his man room lol) that was new....Everything else gets new life when I am bored with different fabric that I already have.....Michele'
Chickens rule!
The Old Batz Farm
Hen #2622 |
| Woodswoman |
Posted - Oct 09 2011 : 6:15:25 PM
Most of my furnishings are hand-me-downs that just needed a little cleaning up. I love making use of existing things instead of buying new!
Jennifer
Farmgirl Sister #104
"Nature brings to every time and season some beauties of its own".
-Charles Dickens |
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