Spring 2009 Newsletter

• Take the home decor outside. Create an outdoor room. Dress up your wood or iron outdoor furniture with brightly coloured cotton outdoor cushions and coir floor mats. Or take it to the next level and create a unique environment for a special occasion by moving indoor furniture outside for an evening no one will forget. Large comfy slipcovered sofas and chairs create a comfy outdoor lounge. Or set the stage for an unforgettable dinner party by hanging sheer cotton voile fabrics in bright colours from poles to create a beautiful tent like atmosphere. Add a table and some candles and yout home decor so your dining alfresco!
• Cover up. Slipcovers are the perfect way to change the entire look of your home without replacing furniture. If this seems like too big of an investment or project for you, consider that anything can be slipcovered, not just sofas. Creating a simple slipcover for the backs of your dining chairs or an occasional chair that has an outdated fabric or even an ottoman that could use some livening up are all options too. There are also pre-made slipcovers available in a variety of shapes and colors to fit your home decorating needs.
• Enhance your view -- Spring is the perfect time to take down those heavy winter drapes. Invest in some lightweight sheers and let the light in on your home. White is a classic but light blues and sea greens are also a great choice. You will be amazed at how much this changes a room and how much you will enjoy those spring evenings.
• Look underfoot. Roll up heavy carpets to expose wood floors. Scatter lightweight throw rugs to create a casual environment. Brightly colored chenille area rugs will be a welcome addition and will not break the bank. Encourage your family to enjoy the softness of cotton rugs by adding a few floor pillows.
• Take Spring Cleaning to the next level. Cleaning up also means de-cluttering. Changing out heavy and dark decorative accessories in favor of lighter feeling accessories will put the spring back in your step. Clear glass vases of varying sizes filled with fresh cut flowers can instantly create a lighter brighter feeling in a room. Pack away heavy quilts and replace them with a lightweight throw blanket.