Design^Sprout | Your Guide to Green Design

A Cheeky Solution!

     Every year 1.7 million tons of carpet end up in landfills. Well now, thanks to design collective Electric Wig at least some of that is being re-used for these stylie stools.  Sit on that!

DIY - Make your own darling thumbtacks!

     Thank God for creative people with time on their hands because these fabric-covered thumb tacks are the cutest little buggers I've seen in awhile. Jessica Jones, crafter extrodinaire, from the blog How About Orange came up with this DIY tutorial (below), proving to us laypeople that it does in fact take a special talent to turn 1/4" of space into a work of art. Thanks Jessica! You tiny-fingered genius you!

Start with a pack of "Wedding Gown Size" (size 20, 1/2") metal buttons to cover (available at fabric stores for about $1.50). Pull the loops off all the button backing pieces with a pliers or wire cutter. Cut your fabric scraps into circles slightly larger than a quarter, or use the circle template printed on the back of your button package. (Since the edges get tucked in under the metal backing, you don't have to be a careful cutter.)

Following the package directions, use the "pusher" tool that came in the pack to cover your buttons with fabric. This step is easy and the most fun! Then use a generous amount of hot glue to attach a tack to the back of your button. A standard tack should fit perfectly. Your cork board will thank you.

POST SCRIPT: You can buy buttons to cover that have flat backs so you don't have to yank off the wire loops! Get some here at J Caroline Creative. I did NOT know this when I made mine. Shoot. Could have saved myself some work.

You can check out Jessica's FANTASTIC blog here!

Switcheroo! Play Chinese Fire Drill with your Art!

  One of my favorite indie artists Natasha Westcoat came up with this great guideline for displaying your much loved collections. Let's get those prized possessions out of the closet and up on the wall for everyone to appreciate!

1. Create a group of art/photos on the wall to create an interesting focal point and eclectic feel. Plan the way you want to hang them by doing placement on the floor, and then map out where they will go. Having prints, originals, or sculpture together in a group looks beautiful and complex.

2. Use an easel to display paintings. This adds interest and dimension as well as provides for ease of change. And no need for tools! (unless you intend to BUILD an easel.)

3. Set art on the floor. (With the right structure, sturdy paintings as well as framed prints can be displayed separately or in clusters under tables, against walls, or in corners. It adds depth and energy to the area. Be sure you don’t do this with LARGE pieces, or they may warp.

4. Display art inside glass door cabinets or standing on shelves along with other artifacts, such as books or collectibles. It’s modern and exciting!

5. Rotate your art collection! Another great refreshing splash to any room is to switch out artwork for other ones. Display a new set of works each week, month, season, or special occasion. It’s nice to have a huge art collection to be able to do this. Rotating your art collection freshens up a room and makes everything feel new. People will ask if you renovated your living room!

Natasha has many more tips for making the most of your art on her blog. Check it out!

Photo Credits: Top, indierocket. Bottom, Natasha Westcoat Blog.

D^S contest! Win Green Chic - a new book on going green!

 

     You always knew going green was the right thing to do but hemp dresses and recycled t.p. were just so........hippy. Well, Green Chic, the new book by Christie Matheson, shows that there's no reason to go live in a treehouse - it's the little things that make a big difference.  For example, did you know that:

1. Unplugging your cell phone charger when not in use saves the earth from 100lbs. of carbon emitted each year?
2. Using cold water to wash your clothes is much more eco-friendly than hot water and actually prolongs the life of your clothes?
3. Eating and buying local products is healthier for you while saving the earth from the exhaust and gas associated with shipping.

     Some things I knew, some things I didn't, but the great thing about this book is that it's not preachy. I highly recommend picking up a copy and finding the tips that work for you. Really, it's so easy!!

"So how can I WIN THIS BOOK?"

     I'm glad you asked!  Just leave me a comment and tell me what you're doing that's green. Anything from sewing your own grocery bag to buying recycled paper towels.  It all has an impact and hopefully I can get some great new ideas!   

     All comments received by Friday will receive one entry which I will then randomly draw out of a hat.  I'll be announcing the winner on Monday. GOOD LUCK!!!

Fido likes it.

      Only the best for your little buddy, right? Everyday Studio offers an entire range of seriously designery and oh-so-cool accoutrements  sure to get your best friend out of the toilet and filling your face with slobbery kisses. If you like that sort of thing.

Saturday Score!

     Aren't we all suckers for a sale!!!  70% off this weekend at Modern Economy. Check out all their designer goods this Sat. at the uber-hip Ace Hotel, in Portland.  10:30am to 3:00pm - so you can still sleep in a score something great. I'm jealous.