July 1, 2010

Frugal Summer Decorating- Part 2


The easiest way to add a splash of summer is to add a starfish or two. The best place to make a little change is the mantle. It's a focal point and versatile. My "sunshine" board is actually a discarded kitchen cabinet with vinyl lettering attached. Simple, clean lines are perfect for summer.

Remember my leftover drop cloth fabric from yesterday? I used it to make a simple curtain. If you are the no-sew type, you will love this. Drop cloths come in a couple of sizes, and with curtain clips, you can have gorgeous curtains without a needle in sight. See here for some inspiration and clear directions.

While we were on our cruise, I really wanted to find a piece of art to remember our trip by. We could have taken out a second mortgage and bought a piece of art on the ship, but what fun is that? Instead I found this neat antique-style map of the Caribbean. It was rolled up, ready to travel and it was only $9. Can you believe it fit a giant frame I already own?? Out came the french-country rooster, in went the map. Glory.

Do you have a Ross? If there is one in your area and you are not a frequent shopper, I won't judge. But I will cluck my tongue and shake my head because you are missing out. I eyed this little "relax" carving at another store, but couldn't bring myself to spend $19 on it. Cute, but not that cute. I took a stroll through my local Ross the other day and this little gem was sitting there with my name on it for $3.

I ordered these prints last summer and they are still one of my favorite things hanging on my walls. I even left them up thru the winter. They are very well priced (plus I had a discount). The frames and mats came from Walmart, so the total investment was minimal.

What I love about summer decorating is the simplicity. Shells from the beach in a jar: so easy. Clean lines and light colors make me happy.

What is your favorite summer color? Do you go for bright and happy colors or light and airy?

9 comments:

Richella Parham said...

I really like your frugal summer decorating! Your map was a great find for $9--beautiful!

You've got me thinking about what I could do around here to lighten up a bit. I'm usually a deep-color sort of person, but a little more light might be a nice thing to incorporate.

And I share your thoughts about Ross. Our store is a little junky, but it's worth digging through the mess to see what treasures await!

Marty@A Stroll Thru Life said...

Love all of your great summer decorations. Just gorgeous. Beautiful home. Hugs, Marty

jason and jen said...

We are enjoying our first day at the beach!!! I just had to tell you that I went in Ross last week for the FIRST time ever. I could not believe how many cute things they had and how cheap it was! I am now a Ross shopper for sure!

Rachel said...

I love your new beachy summer style! Looks very fresh! I would decorate my whole house in pottery barn's new "coastal" line if I could afford it. I think the white starfish are my fav!

Mrs. Sojourner said...

I love the map; what a great idea!

Gretchen said...

I like turquoise and white and beige, with a random splash of red. You've given me so much inspiration for our Whidbey house. I collect all these shells and sand dollars, but you're putting ideas to the collecting. Which means...it's not clutter. ;)

Terri said...

I love decorating on the cheap! My favorite thing is making new pillowcovers. I like light and airy colors for summer. I am trying to find a way to change my brown curtians to something lighter, might have to look at the drop cloth idea! Thanks for sharing your ideas, always a fun read!

Kelli said...

Love the map idea! Out came the country rooster... made me laugh! =)

trish said...

I especially like your quote on your mantel. :o)