It’s August, and you know what that means…school is back in session! I thought this would be a perfect time to review the elements and principles of design regarding current trends. This month we will learn about the elements of design and shift into the principles of design in September. Just as an artist uses brushes, paints, and pencils, an interior designer utilizes the more abstract “tools” of line, shape, color, value, form, texture, and space….
DIY “Wrap” Session with Andrea Brooks
In the article “That’s a Wrap,” in our December issue, three leading designers offered gift wrapping inspiration and ideas. Now, we’re giving you the how-tos! PLUS, we’re asking these designers a few quick questions about their personal holiday style. First up is Andrea Brooks, of Andrea Brooks Interiors in El Dorado. Her playful presents have a punched-up palette that we just love. Now she’s giving you a step-by-step guide to recreating this look:
STEP ONE: “I wrapped the box in the strawberry-colored grass cloth just as I would a traditional package.”
STEP TWO: “I measured around the box and cut a 2-inch-wide strip of fabric to that length. I turned the long sides of the fabric in half an inch, to give it a finished edge. I wrapped the strip around the box and hot glued it to the box.”
STEP THREE: “Make your tissue paper flower: 1. Stack 6 to 8 pieces of tissue paper 2. Cut tissue paper to size – in halves or quarters, depending on the size of the flower you want. 3. Fold the paper – First fold should be one inch, then flip back and forth to make a fan all the way until the end. 4. Fold the accordioned strip in half. 5. Tie a piece of string or twist tie or staple in center of strip. 6. Cut rounded or pointed tips depending on shape you want the petals to have. 7. Separate tissue papers on one side, then the other. 8. Fluff and you’re done!”
Here’s what Andrea had to say about some all-important holiday preferences:
Bags or Wrapping Paper? Both
To Peek at Your Presents or Not? Truthfully, I would totally peek!
Favorite Christmas Carol: “Joy to the World”
Cocoa or Egg Nog? Egg Nog – Beginning December 1st!
Thanks, Andrea! See more images of Andrea’s gift wrapping in the article online, and stay tuned this week for more “wrap” sessions with our other design experts.
[photography: Rett Peek]
Bold Furniture Updates
The easiest way to give dated furniture a major boost is with a can of paint, and while I love a soothing pale paint with a distressed finish, it’s summertime and I’m feeling a little more spicy than rustic pastels. Today, my inspiration pics today are all about making bright, bold statements with painted furniture.
This precious grouping of painted beauties can be purchased from Maine Cottage, but I see no reason why a paintbrush and a free Saturday can’t turn a few thrift store finds into the perfect dining set. Bright, cheery and oh so simple.
Who’s up for a pop of pink? My hand is raised sky high. Check out this fun and flirty hot pink dresser paired with bright yellow duvet.
And who says you have to cover every inch of wood? The volume was turned way up for this dresser when a few stripes came onto the scene.
More of a neutral lover? Take the lead from this serene resting spot with a pair of poster beds decked out in a yellow finish. I’ll take them both.
And, finally, nothing screams summer quite like pineapple. Need I say more?
Image Sources: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5
