Wow, this time it has been a long while between posts – months in fact. Things in life have kept me away from my blog, but now it is time to get back into it.  No more procrastinating – worrying about what to say or write – just doing!  Let’s see if this time I can get this thing off the ground and running!!

I wanted to share with you before and after shots of a wasted space at the bottom of our stairs.  Since we moved in 8 years ago, we have had this shelving unit which served our needs for displaying our collection of trinkets.  But, recently we created a use for this space that incorporates the whole wall and adds visual impact. We had our builders construct a false wall, in which we set three recessed shelves.  With the inclusion of downlights our art and pieces obtained from far and wide now have a beautiful place in which to be displayed. The space feels light and airy and is a wow factor as you descend the stairs to our lower living area.

Recessed shelving is definitely a great idea if you have a free wall and the space.  They add visual interest and creates a place for you to style your treasured possessions.  Whether it is in the bedroom, living area, or bathroom, for the display of books, candles, photos, or the kids toy collection, the ideas are endless.

 

Recently we have found that we need more space for all the little knick-knacks and treasures we have been accumulating. So we have added some new shelves.   Arranging a small collection of your favourite things together in a cluster adds a point of interest and draws your eye in. And don’t just stick to hanging paintings or photos on the wall. Resting them on shelves helps to produce a sense of casual intimacy.

The white floating shelf sits peacefully against the white wall and allows the colour of the objects to stand out.  These colours work well together and complement the cushions on the couch below.

There are however a wide range of shelves available and some great modern designs, both by NZ and overseas designers.  These are a couple of my favs.

Quite often I sit and create with my sewing machine.  Above is a recent addition.  So often I have shopped for a clutch, with none really grabbing my attention.  Some are too glitzy, not the right size, or lacking a sense of fun. So I thought, why not try your hand at making your own.  I am still learning and believe me, they do get better with each attempt. Apart from the feeling of satisfaction in your accomplishment, the added bonus of making these yourself means you end up with a one-off original.  The designs are limitless in the combinations of fabric and colour that you can create.

Following, I turned my attention to pieces of art I have been creating with the sewing machine.  These are 110mm x 150mm, so quite modest in size. I compare these to drawings or small collages of my own paintings.  Unfortunately I haven’t got around to posting images of my paintings yet, I promise to do this soon.

I have assembled quite a collection of these fabric works over a period of time now.  Eventually I can see them being exhibited on mass. Until then, I intend to continue to stockpile.

 

 

I vowed I wouldn’t buy second-hand chairs off the internet again, it seems always inevitable that at least one will be unsteady.  But alas, I haven’t found brand new chairs that I really love.  Hence the imminent recovering of the above six to get exactly what I want.  No more chipping with wood or fibreglass, these babies will be gorgeous fabric (the style of which you will have to wait and see). Tomorrow they are heading off to my upholsterer for him to work his magic.   I will post new images when they return, looking sensational and ready to complement the dining table.

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