DIY: Spring decorating with common objects

Published 8:46 pm Monday, February 24, 2020

DIY by Angela Moller

Angela Moller

Learning to design interesting vignettes using everyday items from your cabinets not only exercises your creative muscles but also opens the door to all kinds of interesting possibilities. This sweet spring vignette of simple home goods becomes a fresh centerpiece or accent for a hall table. A little scavenging, a little upcycling and a little creativity are all it takes to add a breath of fresh air to your home.

What you will need:

Base item (tray, platter, placemat, etc.)

Seasonal accent (plastic eggs, bunny figurine, etc.)

Container (bowl, dish, pail)

Books

Vase or jar

Greenery or florals

Chalk paint

Paintbrush

: Choose a base piece to anchor your vignette. This could be a metal tray, a beautiful platter, a swatch of fabric, a placemat, a large mirror or a slab of wood.

: Add a seasonal accent. For spring, plastic Easter eggs or a bunny figurine can be the perfect touch of whimsy to celebrate the change of seasons.

: If your accent pieces are outdated or the wrong color, chalk paint can revive them. Just add a couple of quick coats, no prep or priming needed.

: Use a container. A pretty bowl lined with a swatch of burlap becomes a sweet nest of Easter eggs. A seasonal mug, a small metal pail or an heirloom candy dish could also do the job.

: Varying heights create an interesting vignette, and books work perfectly. Antique books add texture and Readers Digest condensed books are known for their beautiful covers (and are readily available at thrift stores).

: Add a touch of nature. A sprig of faux flowers or greenery like eucalyptus or lamb’s ear can be added to a vase, jar or pretty glass. A small potted hyacinth adds color as well as a layer of fragrance.

Angela Moller is a local designer who owns and operates Homestead Design and The Homestead Boutique at 415 E. William St. in Albert Lea. She enjoys decorating with items from her collection of interesting housewares, everyday objects and vintage finds. She believes it doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive to add personality to your home.