Chair of the Day: George Simons, Jr.

Would you like to see what it takes to make a chair?

My friends, George Simons, Jr., just put one together that’s pretty cool. It was “just a project.”

George suggests you start in the middle and work your way out. I just saved you several steps.

Now you have your weekend project a few days early. Ready, set, go!

Moxy Crochet

Helping people to support themselves and become independent is a growing phenomenon in depressed regions of Africa.

Moxy Crochet is part of this growing trend. The small company (only seven people) are from the Khayelietsha neighborhood of Cape Town, South Africa.

They work from home to create blankets, pillows and handbags. The team members work from home and meet every two weeks to exchange materials and news. Laura Summs, the chief designer of Moxy Crochet, pieces the elements together herself.

Moxy Crochet’s products are made from locally dyed cotton, wool and mohair. Each item is one-of-a-kind. They make their blankets in a standard size, but take custom orders.

To find out more about Moxy Crochet, or to place an order, visit their site and contact them directly.

It seems that crocheting is making a comeback. I think it’s the brighter colors that make these blankets so appealing.

Does anyone crochet? I’m thinking of learning how, since all I can knit is one long thing. This seems easier to do and to make something usable. Is it easy to learn?

DIY Hand Knit Slipcover

I’m working on a bedroom and was looking around for slipcover ideas when I came across this one over at Apartment Therapy. I thought this might be a fun project for anyone who loves to knit. Am I nuts? This project can be found in the book, Simple Knits with a Twist, by Erika Knight. Read More…

DIY: Toile Pillows

Here’s a fast and fun way to add some French Ooh La La to your boudoir. First, buy a pillow in a solid color. Next, scoot over to The Stencil Library and choose your favorite toile stencil.

Use fabric paint and a stencil brush to add the design to the pillow. Done. Make a bunch for your friends.

These stencils ($42) can be found in their on-line catalog under On-Line Exclusives. They ship all over the world.

Should This Door Be Painted?

A reader sent me this photo of her son’s starter house. The view is from the kitchen looking into the living room, with the front door centered in the room.

Should this door be painted?

One side says no, it’s wood and wood should never be painted. The other side says, it’s ugly wood and ugly wood should always be painted. What do you say?

One thing to keep in mind is that the living room is small. Of course, I have an opinion, but I’m more interested in hearing yours. Wood seems to be an issue laden with strong opinion. What’s yours?