Tuesday, May 31, 2016

{ The EASIEST Cottage Style Window Flower Boxes }

Happy Wednesday friends!! I'm so happy you're back for another simple DIY we've added to our little suburban cottage!! So a few weeks ago I posted a picture on Instagram of some awesome rustic flower boxes from +The Home Depot !! I'll clue you in on a little secret of mine..I'm flower box CRAZY & have always wanted some for our home, so this spring I was determined to add some for a more cottagey look out front!! We've always hesitated about "hanging" some because of the way our window ledges are.. When I spotted the ones at Home Depot I thought we would have to drill & all that annoying stuff, but my husband had other ideas { Yay, THANKS HONEY }!! So upon looking at the ones we wanted we decided we could just fill them with dirt & a few stones for weight & place another piece of wood underneath the box to even out the otherwise uneven ledge! Mark cut two pieces of regular scrap wood & we were done #easy. I mean in all honesty it was much more simple than drilling into the window ledge/brick or using the metal hooks! Come see the rest below & how we did this for close to nothing in about 10 minutes!!!!



Here is the amazing selection Home Depot offered!! I for sure wanted to take one of each haha! Below are the ones we decided on. Simple, dark rustic wood..We got two different sizes for each of the front windows! 


WHAT WE DID

  • Cut / place your wood the length of the box under the uneven ledge/surface
  • Line the boxes with plastic or other material depending on usage { We used faux plants }
  • Fill with dirt & stones for weight
  • Add your flowers & or greenery


  

I chose some traditional white hydrangeas for a fresh look with some hanging greenery from +Hobby Lobby . I got both on sale for 50%!!

  

We have two windows out front of our home. The picture window ledge {above} is extremely uneven so placing the wood underneath the box evened it out & allowed us to set the boxes on the ledge without drilling into the frame or brick which we don't recommend!!! 

Side Note: I chose to leave the wood natural color for some added charm & contrast especially with our bamboo shades inside! I liked the natural appeal rather than painting the added pieces white. You could do either.


  

I love how fresh & simple the wood, brick & white shutters look mixed together! 
** I'll be blogging the front once the landscaping is refreshed & some of our plants have blossomed etc..


This project is definitely being added to one of our most simplest DIY projects with the most impact! I can't wait to play around with them for the seasons & holidays too. This project for both boxes with the greenery cost under $100!! What do you think of this charming new curb appeal we added to the front of our home???

As always THANK YOU for stopping in on my little growing blog. I know everyone says it, but I honestly appreciate each of you for sharing my posts, commenting etc....I'm not the biggest or most popular blogger , but I am humble, real & practical ,and  hopefully helpful or inspiring in someway :). 
***You can find me here for updates & more ,or SUBSCRIBE on the left side of my blog for FREE & direct updates right to your mail...
Paige.Rose








Monday, May 30, 2016

{ DIY Simple Farmhouse Patio Table from an Old Metal Base... }

Hey guys welcome back!!! It seems like it's been forever since I talked to you guys!! I decided to take Monday off from blogging to get caught up on some projects around the house & catch some much needed sun { I'm now a tomato } haha! I hope you all had a lovely weekend filled with loved ones & remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom! This is the first Memorial Day in a while that we didn't do anything special, although this weekend was special to me!!! Last Memorial Day we spent the long weekend reminiscing at my grandmas lake home & saying our goodbyes { she moved back downstate }. This year we decided to stay home & "relax".. Ya, about that relaxing part..eeek, so Friday I was in our upstairs bathroom straightening my hair & I heard a loud crash!! I originally yelled to Mark & thought our neighbor dropped something on our fence..Nope, our GLASS patio table EXPLODED in the heat!! Everything was all over, glass in a million pieces & now nooo table- FABULOUS start to the weekend!!! That night my sister & I went out browsing & picking out new patio paint etc.., but naturally I despised all the generic/expensive tables!! Saturday my husband woke me up & said come out to the patio I have something I'm making you..HE WAS MAKING A NEW FARMHOUSE TABLE FOR US!!! I seriously got so giddy & that's where we spent ALL Saturday/Sunday!!! We painted the whole patio a fresh light grey/white, built the table & refreshed the decor/ washed everything in sight!! I'm not going to lie, I almost passed out a couple of time painting in the 90 degree weather for 5 hours, but it was soo worth it!!! I'll be blogging the whole space soon..but for now here is the table that was  F R E E to make!! Come read how we made it using 4 simple things...

S U P P L I E S

  • Drill
  • Free wood planks
  • Screws
  • Stain { If desired }
  • Saw { if needed }


The wood was free from a friend! We simply washed it with some soap & water, arranged the planks & began screwing the planks into the original metal base! After the table exploded, I knew I wanted to keep the base, but wasn't sure it would work..My husband assured me it would be simple & he was right!! You all know I try to keep it as practical as possible here on TQS, so I will say this project is a 2 person DIY! I only say this because the original metal base lip where you're screwing the wood into is extremely thin & you need two sets of eyes!!


H o w To

  • Wash the wood
  • Arrange the planks { cut/trim to size if needed }
  • Have one person looking from the bottom & the other screwing the nails in
  • Cut a hole for the umbrella base if needed
  • Stain, paint or distress if you want { I'll be sharing more soon on what we chose to do.. }
  • Enjoy


This wood was free & isn't perfect, but I love the charm in the planks. I will be sharing the finished project, new cushions & what treatment I used soon on the blog. This project was literally free & took about 30 minutes! 



If we're being completely honest I just through some cute decor on the table, a tea towel & snapped a few quick pictures before our dinner tonight. Again, this area isn't completed, but sooo much more fresher & functional without the glass top. 


We spaced the screws about 2 inches apart & made a "circle" around the table for a more uniformed look! Since we did use the old base it was kind of hard to perfectly space the screws. The original base was more round & the lip was extremely narrow to work with! Even if you do mess up & re drill, it's nothing a bit of stain, paint or sandpaper can't fix! 

Side Note: We did add about 2.5-3 inches bigger to the table than the original glass top was. I also love the rectangle look better than the original rounded rectangle look. 


Sneak peek of the refreshed space..I'll be completing this area soon & sharing!


I hope you guys got some great ideas & inspiration from this post!! I mean even if you don't have free wood, the project itself is soo thrifty & simple for the most part! We added room, charm & saved a ton DIY'ing this farmhouse table!! When life gives you lemons, make a farmhouse table hahaha! 

Happy & Healthy week y'all!!

As always THANK YOU for stopping in on my little growing blog. I know everyone says it, but I honestly appreciate each of you for sharing my posts, commenting etc....I'm not the biggest or most popular blogger , but I am humble, real & practical ,and  hopefully helpful or inspiring in someway :). 
***You can find me here for updates & more ,or SUBSCRIBE on the left side of my blog for FREE & direct updates right to your mail...
Paige.Rose

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

{ 8 Simple ways to Dress up the Outside of your Home Wherever You Live!! }

Heyy guys!! It's been such a sunny & happy week! As you probably already know I've been sprucing up the outside of our home both in the front & back areas..slowly, but surely! I was out shopping for some greenery at +Hobby Lobby {50% today} with a friend & something dawned on me...Not everyone has a space out front to plant large flowers, shrubbery, put a huge patio set etc.. I mean we only have a little space out front, & I love it!! I got to thinking of some simple, but creative ways people who live in apartments, condominiums, townhouses, etc.. could dress up the front of their home to cozy it up & make it feel more inviting or personalized. By front this could even mean your balcony, stoop or just by your front door. Not all of these will work for every space, but most will & simply!!
  


- H a n g i n g  P l a n t s -

These are that staple item that just about any kind of home whether it's a townhouse or mansion can have haha! You could hang them on the balcony, in front of the window or if you have a little front patio by there! They're easy to move around, take little care / space & can add instant charm & life to an outdoor space!!


- B e n c h e s -

Benches are awesome not only for space saving ,but a lot of them can add extra storage too. Many people who live in apartments or condos have balconies & large tables just aren't practical! Benches however are usually pretty narrow & many of the bottoms can double as storage for other items! We use a little rustic bench outside our front entryway for that added charm/seating, but also because it's more feasible than a little bistro set or chairs etc..

- W r e a t h s -

Ahh one of my most favorite items to use to brighten up just about ANY space!! I'm like the "wreath queen" haha & it's because they can add so much charm & add some personality to a space instantly! They take up little to no space, are easy to move & be used in so many different spots! If you live in an apartment then a wreath is the way to go!! Pop one on the door & you've just added instant character for seasons & holidays!

- D o o r m a t s -

This is another given for places like apartments, condominiums or townhouses! You can easily place a mat down that shows your style or help liven up a space with a fun doormat. They're simple, affordable & take little space! This along with the wreaths was one of the ways I used to "dress" up our common area / door entrance when we lived in our condo!!


- P o t s -

Pots are awesome for little stoops, tiny entrances or even smaller patio's/ balconies! If you want some green areas in your outside area then pots are the way to go!!! They're easy to maintain, come in all styles & keep everything organized & simple! Even smaller pots filled with smaller plants would look nice outside a small condo front etc.. 

- D e c o r -

Decor such as watering cans, or even little welcome signs can add that warmth to any small entrance or front home area!! A simple watering can filled with some long stem real or faux flowers add that instant inviting feel without being obnoxious in a small space! I love the yard "welcome" sign above too. If you don't have a yard , flowerbed etc.. to stick this kind of one in you could use a pot with flowers & stick it in there outside your front entrance! 

- L i g h t i n g

Lighting is that essential items that can bring life to just about any space! Think about it, lighting can either kill a space if it's bad, or can turn a space into a whimsical & bright inviting space it it's done correctly!! Again, I know not everyone has the space or entrance to add/switch great lighting..or even can if you own a condo or rent an apartment! With that being said simple light posts can add that charm & help add light without getting into wiring etc..Many of these little light stands come solar or battery operated etc... They add that needed light & charm to any home entrance, balcony, porch & more!!

I hope I have given you some great ideas for smaller or unconventional outdoor entrances!! I mean not everyone has a huge front space, yard or garden! With some of these touches it's sure to help your guest feel welcomed!! 

As always THANK YOU for stopping in on my little growing blog. I know everyone says it, but I honestly appreciate each of you for sharing my posts, commenting etc....I'm not the biggest or most popular blogger , but I am humble, real & practical ,and  hopefully helpful or inspiring in someway :). 
***You can find me here for updates & more ,or SUBSCRIBE on the left side of my blog for FREE & direct updates right to your mail...
Paige.Rose







Sunday, May 22, 2016

{ Vintage TV Tray turned Laptop Stand }

Heyyy lovely friends!! Thanks for stopping back in on my little blog. So last Wednesday my gram & I went tooling around ALL day after her doctors appointment & we even got a little junkin in! We usually always get together on Wednesday's to have lunch, take stuff to the shop & of course shop or junk!! We ended up at a local barn we both love & I found something I have been looking for since February!! I've mentioned for the past few months that my husband just started his own business after branching out from being a self contractor..Well, since then he's accumulated I swear two truckloads of papers etc.. He also just got a new work laptop & occasionally likes to lay in bed & get some work done before he crashes. With that being said it's kind of hard for him to get comfy in bed & get some work done when there's nowhere to put the wireless mouse he likes, his tea & again 1 billion papers!! Last Wednesday I came upon this vintage { from the 1970's } TV tray & I knew exactly what I was going to use it for - a LAPTOP STAND!!!! I loved the sides & the size etc.. The top even lifts up to prop up magazines/ papers & more! I snagged it for $30 & needless to say my husband loves it!! I mean he can snug in bed with some hot tea, do work stuff & have a snack if needed without the mess..Winning, I think so hahah!!
B E F O R E

  

It started of this dingy worn white..I honestly loved it white & would have painted it white & gray if I was going to use it for decor/ staging. Since it's my husband's & lets face it men can be messy I decided to keep it super simple & paint it with some $1 black paint & distress it a bit for that rustic / worn look for a bit of charm..


I distressed the edges & where you would see normal wear. I don't think this little DIY could have been much simpler!!


I staged it in the guest room because it's honestly so cozy & my husband tends to snooze & relax in here! Perfect functional piece for anything really!!



The "M" mug is from +HomeGoods & pencil holder from +Hobby Lobby !!


The storage is perfect!!! I mean he can tuck the laptop away / his billions of papers haha , and have a snack etc..  Yes, he's kind of spoiled, but I promise he spoils me more ;).


This junkin find is one of my favorites!! I mean it's unique, functional & so simple!! What do you guys think of this little conversion? I hope you all have a lovely sunny Monday!!

As always THANK YOU for stopping in on my little growing blog. I know everyone says it, but I honestly appreciate each of you for sharing my posts, commenting etc....I'm not the biggest or most popular blogger , but I am humble, real & practical ,and  hopefully helpful or inspiring in someway :). 
***You can find me here for updates & more ,or SUBSCRIBE on the left side of my blog for FREE & direct updates right to your mail...
Paige.Rose


Monday, May 16, 2016

{ Simplest Garden Style Centerpiece EVER! }

Well hello there Tuesday!! This week is moving right along & I've been in high spirits all day even with a little rain shower earlier & a pounding sinus headache!! Speaking of rain showers we had a "Florida" style quick rain today & I kind of actually enjoyed it!! If you know me personally, you would know I despise rain.., I know it's  essential to all living things, but me being the OCD clean freak I am, I hate the mess ;)! Anyways, we had a warm sunny quick 10 minute rain & then I started think centerpieces ha..I know, totally random!! I walked in from grocery shopping & did a quick clean & popped open all the windows & the rain magically stopped. I decided to slip on my flip flops & go outside to snatch some random { I don't even know what kind of plant they are } garden greenery to fill our empty mason jars we've had on our galvanized tray for weeks...I know, I'm slacking ha! I didn't know if I was going to like it, but actually I'm in loveee! I needed something to make it feel fresh since we were having some quick business company.. So some free rain splashed plant trimmings & oatmeal cookies ,and voila we were ready!! 





These mason jars were all free about 2 years ago. We have over 50 of them, so I decided to go through our garage stash AGAINNN haha & finally style some.


I mentioned above that we had a Florida like rain today..Well, when I went outside to see what I could grab from the garden these for some reasons stuck out to me & they actually remind me of a Florida style plant!! I swear it's the most random things that come together so nicely...

  

This 2 tier tray stand is from +Target  It was definitely a splurge for me. You know I like to keep it practical & this piece was over $40! My sister actually spotted it & said " YOU NEED THAT" ! Yes, I may have because it's so cute, neutral, industrial, rustic & well everythinggggg I love & crave ha! Thanks sister!!!
 .


The flower frog is from +Marshalls  & was a clearance find for $7! I love the top how it matches the sides of the stand!!  It's a great filler too!


Oh my...I need to either feed those cookies all to my husband or pups or something eek haha! The wreath is from +Kohl's  & it was originally a Christmas wreath I converted..I probably should blog that too ..hmm! The pillow cover is from +IKEA USA  for $6! 

I really hope you guys liked this centerpiece! It's so bright, ultra simple & neutral! I mean a tray { you could use any} free rain drenched plant clippings & old free mason jars..SIMPLE people, almost too simple for this planner brain of mine haha!!!!

Happy & healthy  Tuesday!
 
As always THANK YOU for stopping in on my little growing blog. I know everyone says it, but I honestly appreciate each of you for sharing my posts, commenting etc....I'm not the biggest or most popular blogger , but I am humble, real & practical ,and  hopefully helpful or inspiring in someway :). 
***You can find me here for updates & more ,or SUBSCRIBE on the left side of my blog for FREE & direct updates right to your mail...
Paige.Rose

Sunday, May 15, 2016

{ Simple Summer Entryway Idea using Succulents & Free Junk Finds!! }

Happy Monday guys!! Welcome back to my little slice of heaven hahaha. What a low key, but crazy weekend here in the north! It's been non-stop with stuff since February & then it started snowing today in MAY!!! I mean, as always I try & keep it real here on TQS & that just kind of sent me over the edge!!! So with the combined craziness business wise, life & snow I decided to spruce up our little front entryway with some bright summery treasures! I'm laughing as I write this, here I am decorating for summer with the heat on & parts of Michigan have snow on the ground...typical me haha! In my defense I needed some new decor in our little entryway & I'll be adding something else soon. It's fun & cheery & that's what I needed! Come see this treasure filled inspired space below!

This little pottery barn knock off cubby was a free thrift find! It was originally an orangey stained wood color. I popped some +Annie Sloan  chalk paint on it & added the little vintage drawers! I love the summery look the green gave the piece & you all know I love me some glass knobs!


The mini succulents are from Dollar General. I may have like 10.. haha!




I had these free frames sitting around in our garage stash & finally after a year decided what I would do with them!! I wanted to keep with the fresh aqua/ blue , so I decided to use some free prints. 

Note: These prints/images are NOT property of The Quaint Sanctuary


That tiny crock was the latest find for our entryway spruce up!! I can't wait to show you the back of it soon ;)!  Anyways I hope this fresh little entry gave you some pep in your step for some HOPEFULLY summer weather soon for us northerners!! 

**Be sure to check back for updates & the new piece coming soon to our little entryway!  What do you think of all this color in our usually neutral entry / home??? I'm kind of loving it so far!!

As always THANK YOU for stopping in on my little growing blog. I know everyone says it, but I honestly appreciate each of you for sharing my posts, commenting etc....I'm not the biggest or most popular blogger , but I am humble, real & practical ,and  hopefully helpful or inspiring in someway :). 
***You can find me here for updates & more ,or SUBSCRIBE on the left side of my blog for FREE & direct updates right to your mail...
Paige.Rose

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

{ Small Closet into a Thrifty Makeup Vanity!! }

Welcome back friends!! This week seems to be dragging on ,but at least it was nice out today & noo rain haha!  I mentioned via Instagram { all my social media links are below } a few days ago that I had a new piece stashed in the back of my jeep & I would be blogging it soon...Yay, today is the day! So I haven't updated this area of our little suburban cottage in quite sometime, for one because I hadn't found the right piece for it.. My grandma was out jukin without me #grr haha & found a great little wicker/ wood cottage style desk that was perfect for the space & spruce up I wanted to do..I had kept with the Tiffany/aqua theme only because that's what I was working with..but our master/ my overall style has been switched out for awhile now & this space needed a good clean & revamp! Come see how I revamped this little closet into a cottage style vanity space & see the old space here -->Makeup Vanity BEFORE


  

I kept it super simple with neutral decor & some simple everyday essentials I use!
 



I love the little charming glass knob!! The desk before this had a glass knob as well, but was broken. This desk isn't as sturdy as the last one, but is way more functional with the deep drawer & works better with the space if that makes any sense..


The desk itself has that perfect cottage charm. It's perfectly imperfect with scratches, paint splats & wear..I thinking of putting a mini jute rug under the desk...What do you think??


Like I said above this was a closet in our bedroom.. It was small so we added two closets on the other wall & turned this into a vanity/makeup room. So simple, pop a thrifty desk in, a $10 wall mirror & a few essentials, totes/storage etc.. & done!!  

P.S. Don't mind my messy makeup drawer. Little secret, I'm sooo not into expensive makeup or products. The simpler the better for me & most my makeup is drugstore & like a year old. The white makeup organizers are from Dollar Tree.


This little cart is perfect for storage.. The mini neutral totes were gifts & they just hold my costume jewelry, lotions, sprays etc.. Such a fun & easy space that gets used everyday in someway!!

Let me know what you guys think of this closet transformed into a little makeup room!!

I hope you all have a lovely & productive Thursday!

As always THANK YOU for stopping in on my little growing blog. I know everyone says it, but I honestly appreciate each of you for sharing my posts, commenting etc....I'm not the biggest or most popular blogger , but I am humble, real & practical ,and  hopefully helpful or inspiring in someway :). 
***You can find me here for updates & more ,or SUBSCRIBE on the left side of my blog for FREE & direct updates right to your mail...
Paige.Rose