WhisperWood Cottage

12 Stunning DIY Furniture Makeovers (1st Project of the Year Party Features)

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 03:22:00 +0000

Can you say "stunning furniture makeovers?" All together now..."Stun-ning fur-ni-ture make-o-vers!" Awesome job!! Now check out the talent that linked up their first furniture projects of the year to the 1st Project of the Year Party. These ladies are gunning for that feature in Cottages & Bungalows Magazine, to be sure! Are you interested in a magazine feature or prizes? Read all about it here.

Stunning gilded chair at Brittany Makes

Nautical striped bench at Fab Rehab Creations

Dresser in "the perfect blue" at Decor Adventures

French grain sack dresser at home.made.

Desk with stainless steel finish at Renew Redo

Serpentine dresser at The Uncluttered Life

Decoupaged, polka-dotted fabric desk at Petticoat Junktion

Armoire transformed with textured, paintable wallpaper at Recaptured Charm

Desk makeover at Turnstyle Vogue

Trunk turned file storage at PB&J Stories

Blue cabinet makeover at Sweetgirl Expressions

Dresser turned shelves at Liz Marie Blog

Feature Button

Thanks for you inspiration, Girls! I appreciate you linking up your genius creations and including the party button in your post. Please grab this special feature button made for your featured posts!

4 Days Left!
You have until January 31 to link up your lovely projects!!
There are 12 prizes and a magazine feature at stake!
If you don't have a project, there are still ways to enter to win prizes!
Go straight to the 1st Project of the Year Party!!

Related Features:

10 Home Organization Projects
10 Amazing Room Makeovers
5 Fabulous Projects for Kids & Babies
5 Amazing Round DIY Projects

More features on the way!

5 Amazing Round DIY Projects (1st Project of the Year Party Features)

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:33:00 +0000

Life has been busy this week, and I have been missing out on featuring the kazillion fabulous projects linked up to the 1st Project of the Year Party. Today, we're featuring all things round! Well, not ALL things, but 5 amazing things! They are yummy in more ways than one. Check 'em out!!

Gear Art (Restoration Hardware Knock-off) at Mama with a Dash of DIY Drama

IKEA mirror gone glam with wood slices at That's my Letter

Fancy Valentine Cakesters at Chrissy's Crafts

Wordy Lampshade at Blue Star Antiques

Compass Coffee Table at Red Hen Home

Feature Button

Thanks for you inspiration, Girls! I appreciate you linking up your genius creations and including the party button in your post. Please grab this special feature button made for your featured posts!

5 Days Left!
There's still plenty of time to link up! You have until January 31!!
There are 12 prizes and a magazine feature at stake!
If you don't have a project, there are still ways to enter to win prizes!
Go straight to the 1st Project of the Year Party!!

Related Features:

10 Home Organization Projects
10 Amazing Room Makeovers
5 Fabulous Projects for Kids & Babies

More features on the way!

5 Fabulous Projects for Kids and Babies (1st Project of the Year Party Features)

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 01:49:00 +0000

Oh, my goodness! Can you stand it? Check out these kid and baby-oriented projects linked up to the 1st Project of the Year Party!!

A kid's table made from old pallets? Divine, Melissa!
A baby blanket made from kid's clothing? Make me one, Jami!
Who doesn't love a toadstool inspired tea table? Two lumps of sugar, please, Cassie!!
Are you feeling that maternal instinct? How about a nursery reveal from Chas?
Done with babies? Check out Allison's solution for that old crib mattress!

Kid's pallet table at Shabby Love

Baby blanket made from kid's clothing at Freckled Laundry

Toadstool tea table at Primitive & Proper

Nursery reveal at A Woman's Haven

Kid's daybed made using old crib mattress at Fab Rehab Creations

Feature Button

Thanks for you inspiration, Girls! I appreciate you linking up your genius creations and including the party button in your post. Please grab this special feature button made for your featured posts!

8 Days Left!
There's still plenty of time to link up! You have until January 31!!
There are 12 prizes and a magazine feature at stake!
If you don't have a project, there are still ways to enter to win prizes!
Go straight to the 1st Project of the Year Party!!

Related Features:

10 Home Organization Projects
10 Amazing Room Makeovers

More features on the way!...Fabric projects, crafts, furniture, recipes!

10 Amazing Room Makeovers (1st Project of the Year Party Features)

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 22:19:00 +0000

Are you ready for some more features from the 1st Project of the Year Party? You'll really love these 10 amazing room makeovers from some highly talented people: two laundry rooms, a craft room, a home office, an office nook, a mudroom entry, a stair landing, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a closet...

Laundry room makeover at MiniManor

Craft room makeover tour at The 36th Avenue

Bathroom makeover at A Pumpkin & a Princess

Stairwell landing makeover at The DIY Showoff

Open shelving project at 11 Magnolia Lane

Mudroom entry reveal at Inspirations by D

Master closet makeover at Love of Family & Home

Laundry room makeover at Design Build Love

Home office update at Social Salutations

Computer nook at The 36th Avenue

Feature Button

Thanks for you inspiration, Girls! Please grab this special feature button made special for this party!

The Party Goes On
There's still plenty of time to link up! You have until January 31!!
There are 12 prizes and a magazine feature at stake!
If you don't have a project, there are still ways to enter to win prizes!

Related Features:

10 Home Organization Projects

More features on the way!...Fabric projects, crafts, furniture!

10 Home Organization Projects (1st Project of the Year Party Features)

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 02:56:00 +0000

What's up, DIYers and home organizers? Are you ready for some DIY organization inspiration? Check out these 10 projects linked up to the 2012 1st Project of the Year Party. These girls have got their organization going on!! Totally inspiring! Thanks to each of them for linking up and including the party button in their posts. Now, let's party like an organization rock star!

Closet reveal at Imperfectly Polished

Chevron thread holder at Craptastic

Repurposed cheese box storage at Northern Cottage

Bin organization at Beyond the Picket Fence

Pretty medicine cabinet organization at Decor to Adore

Home decor organization at Fox Hollow Cottage

Laundry closet at On the Banks of Squaw Creek

Wrapping station at On the Banks of Squaw Creek

Basement purge and organization at Wise Designs Inspirations.

Ladder craft organizer at Homeroad

Feature Button

Thanks for you inspiration, Girls! Please grab this special feature button made special for this party!

The Party Goes On
There's still plenty of time to link up! You have until January 31!!
There are 12 prizes and a magazine feature at stake!
If you don't have a project, there are still ways to enter to win prizes!

Lot's more feature to come!
Be ready for all kinds of inspiration!

Burlap & Silver Spoon Valentine

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:38:00 +0000

Pin It

Valentine's Day is on its way! Inspired by Canvas Corp's new burlap flowers, I schemed up this plan for a clever little valentine! Remember those silvery spoons and ironstone creamer I won from White Flower Farmhouse? Blend them together with this gaggle of goodies and you get several options!

The full tutorial is featured at The DIY Club.

You can tuck the spoon end into burlap-filled creamer or into a plant.

This plant is tucked into my jute webbing flower pot slipcover.

Change out the center design for something that is garden-related and you are ready for spring!

I am thinking these could be used for multiple purposes:

Gift

Valentine

Plant label

Wedding table marker

Card club centerpiece or giveaway

Place marker for Valentine's Day or Easter dinner

Do you have any more ideas?

Remember to link up your January projects for a chance to win prizes & a magazine feature!

Word of the Year: Possible!

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 19:40:00 +0000

Inspired by Layla's This Little Word of Mine party, 2012 is the year of the possible at WhisperWood Cottage. Time to realize that our goals and dreams are possible.

P. 0. S. S. I. B. L. E.

It's possible to...

heal

forgive

love

be loved

overcome

be healthy

be fit

be free

feel strong

feel beautiful

strengthen relationships

find new friends

travel the world

give

receive

love our bodies

create

grow

thrive

succeed

I'm loving the year of the possible! Once you believe "it" is possible, you can take the first step toward making "it" happen. I've been working on answering these questions lately.

What goals have I been avoiding simply because I think them as impossible?
What barriers have I put up?
What thoughts about a situation or circumstance keep me trapped in the past?
How would changing my thoughts about my circumstance/situation move me forward?
What's my first step in making the possibility my reality?

We are each on our own journeys. Each time you take a step forward on your path, you change your story, you make a step toward the possible, you become more you. The current you and the possible you become one and the same. Love that! Whatever it is, it is possible. Start with that thought! Here's to all things possible in 2012!

FREE PRINTABLE!: I was so inspired by the one word theme that I put together a printable (below) to get me (and you, if you wish) started. I've never done a printable before but, hey, it's possible to learn it and do it, right? Definitely! It's an 8x10, which you can download or print here.

download this free 8x10 printable

What's your word for 2012?

Does the word possible play into you reaching your goals?

Linked up at:

Remember to link up your projects for a chance to win prizes and feature in Cottages & Bungalows magazine! Party is open January 12-31!

2012 1st Project of the Year Party

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 04:48:00 +0000

Link 'em up! It's time to show off your very first projects of 2012!!

EVENT DATES

All events and event announcements will take place here on the WhisperWood Cottage blog.

January 12 (12:01 am) - January 31 (11:59 pm): Linky party is open.
January 12-31: Projects are featured.
February 1: Prize winners announced.
February 7: Top 12 magazine feature contenders announced.
February 14: Winner of magazine feature announced.

TO ENTER THE CONTEST:

To be eligible for the magazine feature:

MUST MEET THESE REQUIREMENTS: Put one of the linked party buttons (provided above and in the sidebar) with a link to this party post in EACH project post you plan to link. Link up the post using the linky at the bottom of this post.

To be eligible for prizes:

MAIN ENTRY: Put one of the linked party buttons (provided above and in the sidebar) with a link to this party post in EACH project post you plan to link. Link up the post using the linky at the bottom of this post. Leave a separate comment for EACH project that includes your project number and stating that you have included the linked button in your project post.
ADDITIONAL ENTRY 1 (PINTEREST): Follow WhisperWood Cottage on Pinterest. Pin one of the party buttons (shown at the top of this post) to your own Pinterest pinboard. Include the hashtag #1stprojectparty2012 in your pin description. To make it super easy, simply click one of these Pin It buttons... Party Button 1: Pin It or Party Button 2: Pin It.
ADDITIONAL ENTRY 2 (FACEBOOK): Like all four of the sponsor's Facebook pages: WhisperWood Cottage, Cottages & Bungalows, Rockler, Canvas Corp. Come back here and leave a comment that you liked all four pages.
ADDITIONAL ENTRY 3 (FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE): Follow WhisperWood Cottage with Google Friend Connect and/or subscribe to WhisperWood Cottage's RSS feed. Leave a comment below stating whether you follow and/or subscribe.

RULES & FAQ

What type of projects can we link? You can link up any type of project as long as it was completed and posted between January 1 and January 31, 2012. It can be decorating, craft, cooking, before and after, DIY, photography, organization, blog makeover, new hairstyle...whatever floats your boat! Must be your own projects...not other people's work.
How many projects can we link? Link as many as you want as long as they were completed by you and posted between January 1 and January 31, 2012, and as long as you have included a party button to this party post in each post that you link.
How can I win? Read and follow the eligibility section above.
What are the prizes? See prize section below.
How are winners selected? Prize winners are randomly selected from all eligible entries. Magazine feature contenders and the feature winner will be reviewed and selected by the judges.
How do I know if I won? Winners will be announced here on the WhisperWood Cottage blog. January 12-31: blog features, February 1: prize winners announced, February 7: Top 12 magazine feature contenders announced, February 14: winner of magazine feature announced.
What do we do if we win? If you were drawn as a winner or grand prize winner, you have until February 14 to claim your prize by emailing me your shipping address. If you are the winner of the magazine feature, you will need to communicate with me and the editor of Cottages & Bungalows magazine. You will need to provide photos and information for the feature article.
What about shipping? The grand prize package can be shipped to only U.S. addresses (not PO boxes). The runner up prizes can be shipped worldwide. Magazine contenders and feature winner can be from any location worldwide.
What if my link is missing? If you're link is missing, it is likely that is has been removed because the post that you linked did not include the party button, it was not a project that you completed, or your project was not completed and posted between January 1-31, 2012. Make sure your post was an original project that you completed in the timeframe given, add the party button/link to your post, and relink your project!
If I am featured on the WhisperWood Cottage blog or win a prize, am I still eligible to win the feature in Cottages & Bungalows magazine? Absolutely! Everyone who follows the rules for the magazine feature and the prizes is eligible for both.
Can we enter to win prizes without linking up a project? Yes! If you do not have a project to link, you may complete "Additional Entries 1, 2, and/or 3 indicated in the eligibility section above to be eligible for the prize drawings only.
Questions? I attempted to be as thorough as possible. If there are remaining questions, please send me an email. I will update this post with clarifications as necessary.

PRIZES

1 Grand Prize Package (U.S. only)

1-year subscription to Cottages & Bungalows magazine
$50 gift card from Rockler Woodworking & Hardware
$50 in prizes (shown above) from Canvas Corp

11 Runner-Up Prize Packages (North America only)

Current issue of Cottage & Bungalows magazine
$10 gift card from Rockler Woodworking & Hardware

Top 12 Magazine Feature Contenders:

Jickie Torres, editor of Cottages & Bungalows Magazine, and I will review all the linked projects and decide on the top 12 first projects of the year, who will be contenders for an upcoming magazine feature in Cottages & Bungalows magazine!

Magazine Feature Winner:

From the Top 12 Magazine Feature Contenders, Jickie and I will choose 1 top project to be highlighted in an upcoming magazine feature in Cottages & Bungalows magazine!

Blog Features:

I'll also be checking out all the projects and featuring blogger creativity and ingenuity throughout the entire event!

The Fabulous 1st Projects of 2012...

My 2nd Project of the Year: Industrial Coffee Table

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 01:28:00 +0000

The living room is feeling a bit more industrial these days.

The old coffee table (above) has been relegated to the junk shed.

In it's place is this bad boy of a salvaged table base that I scored for $20-$25. Are you as shocked as I was? I'll take it!! I have no idea about it's previous purpose.

All I had to do was order glass and set it in place.

The space underneath is great for the tufted faux fur ottoman we made last fall.

Or how about our vintage rolling trunk?

I like how the trunk adds extra storage, but I need to work on lining the inside.

I feel another project coming on!

Linked up at:

My Very First Project of the Year!...Convex Mirror Makeover for Guest Bedroom

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 22:44:00 +0000

Well, I finally have my first project of the year done! I actually started it in the fall but had not had time to finish it until now.

I started off with this 36" round convex safety mirror that I found a favorite junk spot for $20. You know the kind I'm talking about, right? The ones that hang in the corners of stores to make sure no one is stealing anything.

It was really dirty and had a large metal mounting bracket on the back. It was a bit of quandary to figure out how to detach it.

I had to take off the trim around the mirror, separate the mirror from the backing, and then remove the bolts for the bracket from the inside.

While it was disassembled, I gave the trim and the brackets that hold the trim a coat of oil rubbed bronze spray paint.

If you'd like the full details on the tutorial, I'll be posting my tutorial at The DIY Club! When it was done, it looked like this...

Then I hung the mirror in the guest room. I replaced the printer's tray mirror, which was previously repurposed as a photo display, with the convex mirror...

BEFORE AFTER

I like how the shape of the mirror repeats the shape of the vintage Rand McNally globe and its base.

The cloudless sky made the room bright with light through the window sheers.

This vintage chair holds the "faux sew" burlap bolster I made last fall for the Burlap Month Party.

Some of my favorite things in this room are the industrial stools used as side tables.

They frame my favorite find of all time...the vintage greyhound bus sign.

Well, that is officially my first project of 2012! Do you have your projects ready for the 2012 1st Project of the Year Party? You can win over $100 in prizes and/or a feature in Cottages & Bungalows Magazine! Click here for all the details. The party is open January 12-31, 2012.

Linked up at:

Sneak Peek at My First Projects of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:32:00 +0000

What have you been working on so far this year? I've been working on a lot of down-time and relaxation over the past week. I needed it...desperately! For me, that means hermit-like living, working out, and doing or not doing whatever it is I want or don't want to do. Love it!

Today I actually left the house (shock!) and went to see a movie with a neighbor. The movie was "The Descendants" with George Clooney. It was filmed in Hawaii, and anything Hawaii-related instantly has my attention! I loved the scenes shot in Hanalei Bay on Kauai...one of the best spots in the world, people! Both photos above are from my trip to Kauai last August. The movie is not what I expected, but it is definitely worth a viewing. Be prepared...you might cry.

PROJECT 1

While I have been hibernating the past week, I've been coming up with all kinds of new projects. Ron has been working on one of brainstorms. Here's a hint...

PROJECT 2

The second project is one that I actually started last fall but did not have time to complete until now. I'm not giving any more details for now, so I hope you'll come back to see it...

I'm planning to have both projects done in time for the 1st Project of the Year Party, which starts next Thursday! {squeal!}...Am I too old to squeal? Oh, well, that's how excited I am about this party!! Why? Read on...

2012 marks the second annual 1st Project of the Year Party!! I'm so thrilled to share this opportunity for you to be involved with two of my favorite DIY resources: Rockler and Cottages & Bungalows Magazine. I want this to be super-fun for everyone! So, get those projects ready! Staring January 12, you will be able to link up any and all projects completed and posted between January 1-31, 2012. Linky will open on 1/12/12 and will close on 1/31/12.

WIN PRIZES...

WIN A MAGAZINE FEATURE...

INTERESTED IN JOINING THE FUN?

Click here for details!

Remember to link up to this month's DIY Project Party Monthly Contest at The DIY Club!

Using Pinterest for Meal Planning & Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 02:51:00 +0000

Now, if you have been a blog friend for a while, you know that cooking is not at the top of my priority list. It takes waaay too much time for planning, shopping, prepping, cooking, and cleaning up afterwards, if you ask me. However, I do like trying new foods, and the northwoods of Minnesota is NOT the hotbed of variety for restaurants, groceries, shopping, etc. The lack of variety gets old!

With the new year, I am taking a new attitude toward cooking and food. I really need to take the gluten-free/dairy-free/sugar-free (GF/DF/SF) thing seriously, if I want to make a difference in my health. Remember when I talked about it last year? Well, I've been on and off that plan throughout the year. I feel good when I'm following the plan and not so great when I'm not. I really am moving toward my own definition of optimal health and living my best life. Yay, me!

So, what I've been doing is pinning all kinds of inspiring recipes that are GF/DF/SF and/or could be made GF/DF/SF. I'm collecting inspiration for getting busy in the kitchen! Here are some examples on my Recipes pinboard.

Last night, we had roasted root vegetables. Tonight, we had roasted peppers salad. See, the inspiration is working already! Both recipes were from the Vegetarian Bible, which I picked up at TJMaxx a couple years ago. It is great and has a photo for each recipe!! I think it's been discontinued but can still be found on Amazon for around $6.

CAN "TREATS" BE HEALTHY, TOO?

Yes, even treats can be GF/DF/SF, too. I'm collecting inspiration for healthy versions of yummy treats. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and even sugar-free can be delicious!! The treats below are from my Recipes-sweet pinboard. Does that mean all of the treats below fit the GF/DF/SF category? Definitely not, BUT they inspire me to find healthy versions of similar items. Thanks to the magic of google and the kazillion cooking blogs and websites out there, it's easy to find GF/DF/SF recipes and/or substitutions!

I have made these delicious No-Sugar Oat Drops from Blueberry Girl...they are as scrumptious as they look! I had pinned this a few weeks ago. I pulled it up on my iPhone at the grocery store and bought what I needed! I love when technology comes in handy!!

Blueberry Girl

I also want to try these No-Bake Energy Bites from Smashed Peas and Carrots...

Smashed Peas and Carrots

Only I would use almond butter instead of peanut butter, raw honey instead of regular honey, and carob chips instead of chocolate chips. It's so easy to make a recipe GF/DF/SF or to tweak to your own preferences.

I love finding the inspiration. Now, if only someone would actually plan, shop, prep, cook, and clean up for us. Any takers?

Win a Feature in Cottages & Bungalows Magazine and Prizes from Rockler! Starting January 12!

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 23:29:00 +0000

The new year is here!!

That means new ideas, new projects, and new ways to express your authentic style,

win prizes, and get featured in Cottages & Bungalows Magazine!!

WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT...

2012 marks the second annual 1st Project of the Year Party!! This year is bigger and better for everyone involved! We're talking 1 grand prize winner and 11 more winners of prizes from Rockler, Cottages & Bungalows Magazine, and Canvas Corp. Who wouldn't love a gift card to spend at Rockler.com? Have you seen their amazing selection of tens of thousands of DIY products and tools? We also have 1 subscription and 11 issues of C&B magazine to give away! And the grandprize winner also scores a $50 prize package from Canvas Corp...prizes perfect for appeasing your crafty cravings!

NEW THIS YEAR...

New this year is that 1 talented blogger who links up to the 1st Project of the Year Party will win their very own magazine feature in Cottages & Bungalows Magazine (C&B)!! That's right! A magazine feature!! There are so many talented bloggers out there that are definitely magazine worthy!! I was honored to be featured in the January 2011 issue of C&B, and I wondered if I could pass on the juju to you talented ladies somehow. I am doubly honored that Jickie Torres, editor and creative genius behind C&B, agreed to participate in the magazine feature venture. Jickie and I will select 12 contenders to be featured on the WhisperWood Cottage blog, and then we will announce 1 winner of the feature. Are you as pumped as I am?

EVENT DATES...

I'm so thrilled to share this opportunity for you to be involved with three of my favorite DIY resources: Rockler, Cottages & Bungalows Magazine, and Canvas Corp. I want this to be super-fun for everyone! So, get those projects ready! Staring January 12, you will be able to link up any and all projects completed and posted between January 1-31, 2012. Linky will open on 1/12/12 and will close on 1/31/12.

WIN PRIZES...

1 GRAND PRIZE PACKAGE (will be posted on 2/1/12):

1-year subscription to Cottages & Bungalows magazine
$50 gift card from Rockler Woodworking & Hardware
$50 prize package from Canvas Corp

11 RUNNER-UP PRIZES (will be posted on 2/1/12):

Current issue of Cottage & Bungalows magazine
$10 gift card from Rockler Woodworking & Hardware

WIN A MAGAZINE FEATURE...

TOP 12 MAGAZINE FEATURE CONTENDERS (will be posted on 2/7/12):

Jickie Torres, editor of Cottages & Bungalows Magazine, and I will review all the linked projects and decide on the top 12 first projects of the year, who will be contenders for an upcoming magazine feature in Cottages & Bungalows magazine!

MAGAZINE FEATURE WINNER (will be posted on 2/14/12):

From the Top 12 Magazine Feature Contenders, Jickie and I will choose 1 top project to be highlighted in an upcoming magazine feature in Cottages & Bungalows magazine!

GET FEATURED AT WHISPERWOOD COTTAGE...

BLOG FEATURES:

I'll also be checking out all the projects and featuring blogger creativity and ingenuity throughout the entire event!

PARTY FAQ

What type of projects can we link? You can link up any type of project as long as it was completed and posted between January 1 and January 31, 2012. It can be decorating, craft, cooking, before and after, DIY, photography, organization...whatever floats your boat!
How many projects can we link? Link as many as you want as long as they were completed and posted between January 1 and January 31, 2012.
How do I know if I won? Winners will be announced here on the WhisperWood Cottage blog. January 1-31: blog features, February 1: prize winners announced, February 7: Top 12 magazine feature contenders announced, February 14: winner of magazine feature announced.

WHAT CAN I DO TO GET STARTED?

To get started, you can show some bloggy love! Here are party buttons for your sidebar, your post, your mention on Facebook, your tweet, etc. Please share the love and get those projects ready!!

Check out last year's party: 2011 1st Project of the Year Party.

Check out last year's winners and features: Day 11 Grand Prize Winner & Must-See Features.

Happy New Year in 2012 from WhisperWood Cottage!

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 02:41:00 +0000

LOOKING BACK ON 2011

As you all know, blogging is a social affair. It's so great to have friends with whom to share our creativity and DIY adventures. Thank you to each of you who follow and subscribe to WhisperWood Cottage. It means a lot to me that people are willing to read, visit, and comment. To see which were the most popular posts of the past year, check out the Top 45 DIY Projects of 2011.

2011 was a special year as WhisperWood Cottage was featured in a 10-page spread in the January 2011 issue of Cottages & Bungalows magazine. We also had two separate mentions in the Spring 2011 and Fall 2011 issues of Flea Market Style magazine! Let's hope that 2012 leads to more unexpected opportunities and honors!

A special shout out to these 10 bloggers who referred the most traffic to WhisperWood Cottage in 2011...

LOOKING FORWARD TO 2012

Big hugs to all of you in the new year! Do you know what the new year holds for you? Do you have a plan, an idea, a dream that will come to fruition in 2012? I anticipate lots of changes for me...physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It is going to be an amazing year!

Here at WhisperWood Cottage, we'll be kicking off 2012 with the 2nd Annual 1st Project of the Year Party!

It's almost time! The new year is coming!!

That means new ideas, new projects, new ways to express your authentic style!!

I'm sure y'all have projects planned or in the works for 2012. Am I right? Well, if so, I want to see them. In fact, we all want to see them!! DIY, craft, decorating, sewing, health, photography, repair, trash-to-treasure, organization, cleaning...whatever your first projects of the year are!! So, starting on 1/12/12 (that's January 12, 2012), we'll be partying here at WW Cottage with the "2012 1st Project of the Year Party."

Last year's party was my favorite event ever! The link-ups were amazing, and I featured a total of over 70 projects!! Check out last year's party: 2011 1st Project of the Year Party. Check out last year's winners and features: Day 11 Grand Prize Winner & Must-See Features.

Stay tuned for this year's party details and prize package information!

I know y'all are busy with the holiday season,

but I'd appreciate it if you would grab a button and spread the word!!

Thanks, blog sistahs!!

Top 45 DIY Projects of 2011

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 21:41:00 +0000

Welcome to the WhisperWood Cottage 2011 year in review! I spent some time today going through the 250 posts that went up on this lil' ol' blog this past year. It's amazing how much has happened here! Thank you so much for stopping here, commenting, and being part of the fun at WWC!

If you're new to WWC or simply want to catch up on past projects, please check out the top 45 projects of 2011...

The Full Before & After Tour of the WhisperWood Cottage Studio Makeover

Deconstructing a Chaise, Reconstructing Ourselves: Listen, Trust, Create!

Vintage Door Coat Rack in Studio

Vintage Corner Hutches for the Dining Room

Make Your Own Craft Paper (yes, paper!) Chalkboard

Make Your Own Chalkboard Tags (from old business cards!)

Vertical Storage with Vintage Wire Baskets & an Antique Ladder

Tutorial: How We Made Our Own Glass Terrarium/Hurricane Lamp

12 Ways to Use Vintage Signs in Contemporary Decor

Master Bedroom Nook Gets Birch Stencil Makeover

"Faux Sew" Burlap Pillow Cover

Plaid Pattern Burlap Coaster

Thrifty Junking Finds

Stenciled Linen Tape Candle Wrap

Wash Tub Stand as a Luggage Rack

How We Made Our Own Tufted Fur Ottoman

Hourglass Stenciled Pillow Cover

All is "Grey-t" with a Vintage Greyhound Bus Sign

Blue & White Ikat Chairs

Sexy Dress Form Gets Accessorized

Using What You Have, Having What You Love

Red Jute Webbing Flower Pot Slipcover

Laundry is More Fun with Industrial Canvas Basket

Garage Sale Find: 1930s Rand McNally Globe

Inspired by Grace...An Inspirational Ballerina Mirror

Vintage Medical Cabinet and Future Plans for the Dining Room

Vintage Printer's Tray Turned Photo Display

Burlap Tissue Box Cover

The IDEAL Vintage Sign

America's Next Top Work Table

Vintage Industrial with a Beach Cottage/Coastal Vibe

Vintage Turqoise Ring: $5 Garage Sale Find

Home Sweet Home Vintage Sign Transformation

Slipcover Bench Makeover

Winter White Faux Fur Wreath

The Real Purpose of Decorating: Vintage Printer's Tray Mirror

Nautical to Autumnal: Studio Gets Fall Makeover

Silk Drapes in the Workout Room

Silver, Crystal, Burlap & Chalkboard Place Setting

Organizing Your Garage: Wheels and Casters are a Must Have!

Photos of My Kauai Adventure

Vintage Edison Battery Jar Repurposed

Dual Milbradt Ladders in the Guest Room

Scenic Views of Ireland's West Coast

World's Fastest Makeover

Thanks for following and subscribing! See you here in 2012 for another fun year! We'll be kicking it off in January with 2nd Annual 1st Project of the Year Party!

It's almost time! The new year is coming!!

That means new ideas, new projects, new ways to express your authentic style!!

Stay tuned for this year's party details and prize package information!

I know y'all are busy with the holiday season,

but I'd appreciate it if you would grab a button and spread the word!!

Winter White Faux Fur Wreath (and No Sewing!)

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 23:23:00 +0000

Need an idea to makeover your old craft wreaths? How about faux fur?

With this pile of faux fur scraps leftover from my faux fur ottoman and faux fur jewelry display, I had this vision of a fur wreath. In search of a wreath to makeover, I stopped by a small, local thrift store on the way home from work recently and found this beauty for 49 cents...

With the scraps of faux fur and approximately 30 stick pins (that's right...stick pins...no sewing!...simply wrap the fur around and stick in the pins), here she is now...

Clean, fresh, and fun!

Welcome to the new year!

Related front door projects you might like...

Front Door Makeover

Welcome Vinyl

"A to Being Creations" Nominated to DIY Club Top 12 Holiday Projects

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:05:00 +0000

Congratulations to Ashley at A to Being Creations! Ashley linked up her project involving turning shipping labels into chalkboard gift tags to the Chalkboard Holiday DIY party here at WhisperWood Cottage. It's definitely on my to-do list!

Her project was nominated to the Top 12 projects from all 12 parties involved in the the 12 Days of Holiday DIY party at The DIY Club. From those top 12 projects, one talented blogger will be announced as the grand prize winner tonight. Good luck, Ashley!

So glad to feature you, Ashley! Thanks for sharing your talents!! Please grab one of the new WhisperWood Cottage feature buttons for your blog.

An October Vignette in December?

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 01:15:00 +0000

See that vignette above? Yes, well, it no longer exists. These photos were taken back at the end of October. Yes, nearly two months ago. I'm pretty sure it was changed not too long after these photos were taken. This spot on the living room is one of those areas that I just haven't figured out yet, so it just keeps changing! :)

It has looked like this...

...and this, this, and this...

So, in October, it looked like this...

The vignette is a combination of new and vintage pieces, which makes it all the more fun!

The Farrah Crystal Table Lamps from Ralph Lauren were TJMaxx finds. They were an insanely good deal! I was shocked when I did the research on the actual retail price of these lamps. Thank you, TJMaxx!!

The pair of them are now in the master bedroom.

That's it! My October vignette in December. Better late than never, right? Let's hope Santa is paying a bit more attention to the calendar! :)

Save the Date! 2nd Annual 1st Project of the Year Party!!

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 04:27:00 +0000

It's almost time! The new year is coming!!

That means new ideas, new projects, new ways to express your authentic style!!

Stay tuned for this year's party details and prize package information!

I know y'all are busy with the holiday season,
but I'd appreciate it if you would grab a button and spread the word!!

Thanks, blog sistahs!!

Upholstered Bench Makeover with Comfort Works

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 16:24:00 +0000

I received this bundle of goodness via FedEx this week. An early Christmas, to be sure! Through The DIY Club, I was offered the opportunity to order from Comfort Works, an Australia-based company known for their IKEA slipcovers and custom sewing projects.

It was the perfect opportunity to freshen up this IKEA Karlanda bench, which Ron and I had purchased at a used furniture store many, many years ago. It came with this stunning pink/mauve slipcover. It was in desperate need of a makeover!

Somerset Hazelnut Lino Brushed

I started by having several fabric swatches sent to me. They have an incredible selection of fabrics, all of which would be beautiful, but I wanted to feel the fabrics before ordering. You know what I mean? I love that they send you any fabric swatches you want.

I eventually settled on Lino Brushed for the Karlanda Bench slipcover. I also ordered custom pillow covers for two pillows I already had...Lino Brushed on one side and Somerset Hazelnut on the other. I wanted a bit more of a formal feel, so I asked for piping on the slipcover and pillow covers as well. Love!

And here she is now!

There is this awkward space in front of the front window that has always been a challenge to style. I don't want to block the window, so the height of this bench is perfect here. I've tried other furniture arrangements, like a table and chairs, but then the windows and drapes were difficult to reach. I always come back to this set-up. Now that the piece is not a hideous worn and faded mauve, the space feels more finished and peaceful.

Believe me, it is the PERFECT place for a wintertime nap. Despite the frightfully cold Minnesota temperatures outside, I am able to curl up there and bask in the warmth of the winter sun, whose heat is amplified by the window. In fact, this Sunday afternoon would be the perfect opportunity for a leisurely rest on my newly madeover bench. Thanks, Comfort Works!

Silk Drapes in the Workout Room!

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 02:45:00 +0000

The workout room got a bit of a freshening up this past fall.

It all started with the single window in the room.

Definitely needed some sprucing up, no?

Enter the silvery grey silk drapes that I had found on clearance at Pottery Barn

a year or two before and this drapery rod from Target...

I called in the man to ~~help with~~ take care of the hanging of the drapery rod.

He's amazing with making sure things are parallel and plumb!

And he's much taller than I am, which makes the task easier!

Here's the transformation...

BEFORE AFTER

Who says you can't have a little luxury in the workout room?

With the change of the seasons, the vintage ski board went to the shed.

In came this pair of vintage barber shop chairs and vintage Lion Paint thermometer.

Tada!

Now I just need to actually turn on the treadmill.

Drat. No excuses now. :(

Hee. Hee. Like the drapes were the excuse to not workout. I can imagine the conversation...

The Man: "Have you been working out lately?"

Me: "Oh, daahling, you have no idea the struggle I've been facing. Don't you know I couldn't paaahsibly workout in THAT room!?

The Man: "Huh?"

Me: "Seriously, daahling. How could you paaahsibly expect me to workout in any room that does not have Dupioni silk drapery? The thought is positively barbaric!

Please note that the conversation above is not real! I don't really talk like that...unless I am mimicking Kitty from Dharma & Greg. If you have not watched the sitcom Dharma & Greg, head over youtube and get yourself a laugh, daahling!

Purdy Paintbrush Winner

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 01:19:00 +0000

Congratulations to Sharon of Sharon's Wannabe Cottage!

You are the winner of the Purdy Paintbrush Set.

Please email me your shipping information!!

Vintage Medical Cabinet & Future Plans for Dining Room

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:35:00 +0000

Here's the other side of the dining room.

Love that antique sand-painted railroad sign I found on one my junking adventures!

You know I love using vintage and antique signs all around the cottage!!

In the spot in which the beach cottage cabinet (above) used to be, is this antique medical/dental cabinet.

Curvaceous legs and all!

Another junking find...from the same vendor, too!

It is home to a set of china that I received from my grandmother.

DINING ROOM RECAP

In case you want to catch up on recent posts, here are a few in which you might be interested:

Vintage Industrial Chairs in the Dining Room

Settee at the Dining Room Table

Updated Dining Room & Industrial Desk Lamps

PLANS FOR THE DINING ROOM

I'm loving the direction in which the dining room is heading. There are a few things I'd like to do yet, such as:

Paint the walls a fresh white.
Maybe some architectural details on the walls...hmmm.
Maybe paint the corner cabinets.
Change out the drapery hardware.
Considering new drapes but will wait until I see the room painted.
Industrialize the chandelier or get a new one with an industrial feel to it.
While I would love wood flooring, it is probably not an option with this house. Booo!
Also considering building shelving and adding a library ladder to the wall opposite the windows.

I'm not sure which, if any, of these things will be done in any given order or in any certain timeframe. They are just ideas that are simmering and waiting until time, energy, and resources allow! :)

Updated Dining Room & Industrial Desk Lamps

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:04:00 +0000

Here's the full shot of the dining room as it is currently.

The settee on one side, which makes this table an inviting space to sit and work. Paying bills doesn't seem like such a chore in such a comfy seat!

The salvaged vintage industrial chairs on the other side...I just love their simple lines and utilitarianism. The best part is that I can easily use the table for simple tasks, like folding laundry, without having to move the chairs out of the way. :)

I have to tell you a little about these lamps, too. They are Perry Industrial Style Desk Lamps from Ralph Lauren. They were TJMaxx finds at $80/piece, and a little research showed that they were originally $345 each. That's 77% off the original retail price! I hadn't expected that much of a deal. Thanks, TJMaxx!

I love the mixed metal finish...a combination of brushed steel and brushed brass finish. I've always been a person who mixes metals, wood finishes, etc...part of my authentic style, I guess. :) It all adds to the eclectic, industrial, and traditional touches I love.

Any great finds for you lately?

Any bargains? Anything that called to your authentic style?

Settee at the Dining Room Table

noreply@blogger.com (WhisperWood Cottage) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:29:00 +0000

Thanks for all your kind comments on the set of 6 vintage industrial chairs that we rescued from a dumpster and are now using in our dining room! I mentioned yesterday that we had something different on the other side of the table.

This settee was moved from its previous place in the living rom to its current home at the dining room table. I feel extra special sitting on that settee. It's super comfortable and has a luxe feel to it. We had picked it up on clearance from a local furniture store last spring. Love the lines of the piece and its fabulous nailhead detailing!!

The holiday floral display was a gift from our neighbors. They are such wonderful and generous people! It's people like them who make the holiday season come alive all year 'round!

More details on the dining room coming up (the lamps, the opposite wall, etc.)!