DIY (Easy & Inexpensive!) Planter Boxes

I have to be honest—we were pretty underwhelmed when we first stepped out of our realtor's car and laid eyes on this house (well, until we walked through the door and saw the view... but still.) Curb appeal has always been a challenge for me—it's a little out of my element and landscaping scares me.<br /><br />However, I can't ignore it forever. We have several guests coming during the holidays and I wanted the front porch to be just as cheerful and festive as the inside. Let's take a look at our entryway situation:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtvLMJ74kQT_p-dh83EqGIf6mQens03P6kocMmzQuW5x2NcRpqLvHtkV62S55F-AfwKyibgDY5XBLsgNTfJNoQ6N7fIhTcCQBiTC8kTswXV0g4y6Zu7BqYaLdoUP8iWT_kHc2VeKE74Rg/s1600/IMG_5484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtvLMJ74kQT_p-dh83EqGIf6mQens03P6kocMmzQuW5x2NcRpqLvHtkV62S55F-AfwKyibgDY5XBLsgNTfJNoQ6N7fIhTcCQBiTC8kTswXV0g4y6Zu7BqYaLdoUP8iWT_kHc2VeKE74Rg/s1600/IMG_5484.jpg" /></a></div><br />Yawn. Very blah, right? I pulled my <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2012/03/diy-moss-letter.html">DIY moss letter</a> out of storage just to have <i>something</i> there and added a couple boxwood wreaths... and then I neglected it.<br /><br /><br />We don't really have a front "yard", persay—it's a big wrap around driveway with some rocks, shrubs and trees in the center, and pavement everywhere else. We desperately needed some greenery near the front door, and when I found these planters from <a href="http://ana-white.com/2012/08/plans/cedar-planters-less-20">Ana White</a> I knew they were perfect:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ana-white.com/sites/default/files/3154813483_1344446443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ana-white.com/sites/default/files/3154813483_1344446443.jpg" /></a></div><br />I loved the style, the plans were easy and they're under $20 each—one on each side of the porch was perfect.<br /><br />Last week I made a Lowes run to grab my supplies, including two evergreens to fill the planters:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc03Sy-is0jc8zfj4Xlg_jKzeeDGbrGmqBGNz_j2gTjNfl59EiPfDYyotk6DmJ7b2sMjkabcHLOz6ZgK7WRN1Q23DPI8pr3cRXWiuaPBfdnebg93QpH77qn_oCdnsicm-hnThgOrJgkAUK/s1600/IMG_4541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc03Sy-is0jc8zfj4Xlg_jKzeeDGbrGmqBGNz_j2gTjNfl59EiPfDYyotk6DmJ7b2sMjkabcHLOz6ZgK7WRN1Q23DPI8pr3cRXWiuaPBfdnebg93QpH77qn_oCdnsicm-hnThgOrJgkAUK/s1600/IMG_4541.jpg" /></a></div><br />I got straight to making the cuts:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQihMhTwjyT_3xM1o4ypS4cJACl-gnuecpnPXyZM-33naTX3xvpoW3JkHLRQco1j3INGdCbLAg3nHXdWOyOFFY_WlYsmkA_a6B0z-uosO0VjDpbQQLX2N3uIrcUUhM_jmjYfqozfdm31Y/s1600/IMG_4555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQihMhTwjyT_3xM1o4ypS4cJACl-gnuecpnPXyZM-33naTX3xvpoW3JkHLRQco1j3INGdCbLAg3nHXdWOyOFFY_WlYsmkA_a6B0z-uosO0VjDpbQQLX2N3uIrcUUhM_jmjYfqozfdm31Y/s1600/IMG_4555.jpg" /></a></div><br />The plans call for cedar fencing for the sides which I had never worked with before. They're super inexpensive and light weight, but vary so much in thickness, color, texture and quality. Look at the differences...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwfQunzb3SPupG_R0kEW-DgMgQ7nuensUs3xaQNX_tsFRof8Xn0cEWVKKGY5JWVTkn4whaIDX_9c4YqvDudg4onYFwSIWukRh-tRrqicFAXvpThGnmVrwZfEeVFr8pFNxdpVE5lKcdizv/s1600/IMG_4554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwfQunzb3SPupG_R0kEW-DgMgQ7nuensUs3xaQNX_tsFRof8Xn0cEWVKKGY5JWVTkn4whaIDX_9c4YqvDudg4onYFwSIWukRh-tRrqicFAXvpThGnmVrwZfEeVFr8pFNxdpVE5lKcdizv/s1600/IMG_4554.jpg" /></a></div><br />So they certainly have limited uses when building furniture, but they're great for this project.<br /><br />I won't rehash all the details of the plans (you can find those on <a href="http://ana-white.com/2012/08/plans/cedar-planters-less-20">Ana's site</a>) but here's a quick rundown. The first step was to make the sides. I set three boards down on top of two 1x3"s, spaced them out by eye and used wood glue and finish nails to attach them (I don't have a square so I lined them up along the corner of a sheet of hardboard, not shown):<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4xHjBoQJ4Xzx8sR3cCTawGDvrwqG4PS9rToztMTzteptLcHAjRpdaLIYlQa98xiJZxu3RDEaOshPKpx_1m_8bYBQkOn4FrSOf0qw6qg15MDHMg42aW8l3iVf0ZhDsPWCOLjfQVhH8S_Dh/s1600/IMG_4557.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4xHjBoQJ4Xzx8sR3cCTawGDvrwqG4PS9rToztMTzteptLcHAjRpdaLIYlQa98xiJZxu3RDEaOshPKpx_1m_8bYBQkOn4FrSOf0qw6qg15MDHMg42aW8l3iVf0ZhDsPWCOLjfQVhH8S_Dh/s1600/IMG_4557.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Here's how the front looks:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8k4M7WTd1Llq36YhXNKjAUA0hVf2zL-3ZQ_pe4kD-rxZPh6PT8AuUQ9hsYkMi8r8WFQOwPZjFGEEVzVGdzcebdUc-bwOBYlMCxxsBFYEQsBDmSfabdKBpg00z5cInOgG0pRUydMwxSH8B/s1600/IMG_4559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8k4M7WTd1Llq36YhXNKjAUA0hVf2zL-3ZQ_pe4kD-rxZPh6PT8AuUQ9hsYkMi8r8WFQOwPZjFGEEVzVGdzcebdUc-bwOBYlMCxxsBFYEQsBDmSfabdKBpg00z5cInOgG0pRUydMwxSH8B/s1600/IMG_4559.jpg" /></a></div><br />It didn't take long to finish all eight sides.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWSTgGOEg0-St2HbObQ-9v1Godtl2D_m2VoxeXEjlwQMey_Wn1Og1zAMI-Dm_GJZPMLNuFNK8rHcvazagx2rBrZ3J_KZp8KxbzsE6gcsd1B1abeWTt4nIjvtmDhpDH3_D4W4k48PrU9nL/s1600/IMG_4560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWSTgGOEg0-St2HbObQ-9v1Godtl2D_m2VoxeXEjlwQMey_Wn1Og1zAMI-Dm_GJZPMLNuFNK8rHcvazagx2rBrZ3J_KZp8KxbzsE6gcsd1B1abeWTt4nIjvtmDhpDH3_D4W4k48PrU9nL/s1600/IMG_4560.jpg" /></a></div><br />Then it was my least favorite part, pocket hole time. Sometimes it feels like I'm the only blogger who isn't infatuated with the Kreg Jig. I appreciate it for what it is, absolutely, but more often than not I run into problems (anyone else?)<br /><br />Drilling the actual holes went smoothly (although somewhat time consuming)...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDHH3IGykk9QtQFFPhTfURLn9OmGnIO7j04h5fa0gSFZ2n9Ez7w_v2ZHb3RcHTNL91bUBzQd8SyU8BSEp7_SzXx8KRWP7TmcGMDURZMN_fznyFLJ8C8REeRuhlEfW36FsJL9ayoCmYnSOb/s1600/IMG_4561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDHH3IGykk9QtQFFPhTfURLn9OmGnIO7j04h5fa0gSFZ2n9Ez7w_v2ZHb3RcHTNL91bUBzQd8SyU8BSEp7_SzXx8KRWP7TmcGMDURZMN_fznyFLJ8C8REeRuhlEfW36FsJL9ayoCmYnSOb/s1600/IMG_4561.JPG" /></a></div><br />And everything came together, but I had a handful of screws that went straight through the wood which happens to me a lot. Not sure if they're going in at the wrong angle or just too much torque on the drill. Some of those screws were stuck so I had to cut them down with my dremel (dremels are the best!)<br /><br />Anyway, rant over. I still ended up with these babies:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5AcDAMq48VTRY5WGtWL8WEf6hgjMqOneur2S4b0XxtNubbunWRlWWQjQwObDkkcWw6wPW0Q_SB8cdDb1wZ75Iq1V9WlGn7Wbe2WxzrpBIsoDILHLDt9LrCl4vX5Q5t_lc3yuy0tRwxAUh/s1600/IMG_4562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5AcDAMq48VTRY5WGtWL8WEf6hgjMqOneur2S4b0XxtNubbunWRlWWQjQwObDkkcWw6wPW0Q_SB8cdDb1wZ75Iq1V9WlGn7Wbe2WxzrpBIsoDILHLDt9LrCl4vX5Q5t_lc3yuy0tRwxAUh/s1600/IMG_4562.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Next it was time to add a shelf for plants to sit on. This was the easiest part.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCZ9YOeV7dIga0nZZuItlgq-dCC7FdmrZoILyISAU4X49Q-D-_d9J8aPaZBZiiLx5NtZ5WiG_2Tjr_LeAsLozIukyNjghubqrg3bqNNSUFaTDZfvIq2aDsFWHD6duJhyphenhyphenomcqUFBBp_aVB/s1600/IMG_4563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCZ9YOeV7dIga0nZZuItlgq-dCC7FdmrZoILyISAU4X49Q-D-_d9J8aPaZBZiiLx5NtZ5WiG_2Tjr_LeAsLozIukyNjghubqrg3bqNNSUFaTDZfvIq2aDsFWHD6duJhyphenhyphenomcqUFBBp_aVB/s1600/IMG_4563.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I measured how far up I wanted the shelf to be and used 1x2's as cleats (attached by wood glue + nail gun):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6p5D2TsqXGe2d-TZyFQROCpT6AEDYGKOOpfiua5bqTp1xLQVqfeviUgE-B2KwtDZUXspCYWgmgAe6GnHK3WOAczv0luFI6FuK-z2pKHu0VQzFrQIq9YIgkhNmNUGHnp2b_36CZJRQotm/s1600/IMG_4565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6p5D2TsqXGe2d-TZyFQROCpT6AEDYGKOOpfiua5bqTp1xLQVqfeviUgE-B2KwtDZUXspCYWgmgAe6GnHK3WOAczv0luFI6FuK-z2pKHu0VQzFrQIq9YIgkhNmNUGHnp2b_36CZJRQotm/s1600/IMG_4565.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then I nailed in some more 1x2's and scrap wood:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3i9cHSXyq9sCmbCAAoxizKlmXMuQZv5XAw6jHKtjHAgOyD4TNzPFcX0dKOATXmgqx8EopO7jPDdIAV_8tunpGSmUSZAIt77iJuAvlAvX15j6Gb7WtutM2AK7eP-MRDCRoCN3EWfouRTN/s1600/IMG_4564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3i9cHSXyq9sCmbCAAoxizKlmXMuQZv5XAw6jHKtjHAgOyD4TNzPFcX0dKOATXmgqx8EopO7jPDdIAV_8tunpGSmUSZAIt77iJuAvlAvX15j6Gb7WtutM2AK7eP-MRDCRoCN3EWfouRTN/s1600/IMG_4564.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ana's plans end here but I wasn't loving the exposed top edge showcasing the mis-matched cedar boards. I had enough 1x2's leftover to trim the top out so I used more wood glue and nails for that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIMD3Me8HWgtIuiPoNyIeP2Wy30Qts87mNsyrGvFBxZjMo6MJZLuYBIYE8BTJBFcQNOCt0B4y6s0t4VTpgWvrkNrAFDOFX4WoXjLFRrrbBiNIAQXW85SjjoBDgj4dbRR4x7cdqhqUsqzJ/s1600/IMG_4566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIMD3Me8HWgtIuiPoNyIeP2Wy30Qts87mNsyrGvFBxZjMo6MJZLuYBIYE8BTJBFcQNOCt0B4y6s0t4VTpgWvrkNrAFDOFX4WoXjLFRrrbBiNIAQXW85SjjoBDgj4dbRR4x7cdqhqUsqzJ/s1600/IMG_4566.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And my planters were built!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOKLlbI_Erzm3eTOxl067Mnf0MjvWIcZQ9nQBSbNfeyGF8ECi9jqbb8JgFAPHZS8RReBomV_4zXijc_JyAAFERlC_S-o16Og6mjUFy51mEU1FOP5tYaarRT2deXdJinX8CF7fYuv3S7myf/s1600/IMG_4567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOKLlbI_Erzm3eTOxl067Mnf0MjvWIcZQ9nQBSbNfeyGF8ECi9jqbb8JgFAPHZS8RReBomV_4zXijc_JyAAFERlC_S-o16Og6mjUFy51mEU1FOP5tYaarRT2deXdJinX8CF7fYuv3S7myf/s1600/IMG_4567.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>I gave them a quick sanding to smooth out any sharp edges and splintering. For the finish, at first I considered painting them black to match the front door, but then realized the space was entirely lacking warm/wood tones so stain was the answer.<br /><br />I found this Cabot stain and sealer in one at Lowes and decided to give it a try:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqzIfN2Y7mgtwRevJ0BFV8Dz_dBq3zjRJjfuNRxKUYFCnfS0TQ9frJXhQOciKh5CIhVQiunbn2zMhfzgWcil1SgCGirRB2zRK1w78oE8znTjIRDbfiPk7KIZFALVY8qxnP8bw7jnunFDg-/s1600/IMG_4568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqzIfN2Y7mgtwRevJ0BFV8Dz_dBq3zjRJjfuNRxKUYFCnfS0TQ9frJXhQOciKh5CIhVQiunbn2zMhfzgWcil1SgCGirRB2zRK1w78oE8znTjIRDbfiPk7KIZFALVY8qxnP8bw7jnunFDg-/s1600/IMG_4568.jpg" /></a></div><br />Because of the roughness of the cedar, I opted to brush it on rather than my normal method of wiping to apply. It worked great.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnXe6xqhDKI9cLx9sCt98zk2VKYrv2yLLgB0VQcWyRbf9C3MVC8gaahQWeX5T2msPtjM22rAjTu0Ot8YGxAymtfZuuiaeDj7daDqDsLBgi_dx1dwYxO3gUShH-3CZWnjZAP-Ga3JWdFP1N/s1600/IMG_4569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnXe6xqhDKI9cLx9sCt98zk2VKYrv2yLLgB0VQcWyRbf9C3MVC8gaahQWeX5T2msPtjM22rAjTu0Ot8YGxAymtfZuuiaeDj7daDqDsLBgi_dx1dwYxO3gUShH-3CZWnjZAP-Ga3JWdFP1N/s1600/IMG_4569.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />The cedar took the stain much heavier than the smooth pine, so I applied a second coat just to the pine boards after letting it sit overnight.<br /><br />And that's it! Total time was probably around 6-7 hours (with no help, including breaks—it would go a bit faster with a second person but it's totally manageable on your own).<br /><br />The plant guy at Lowes helped me choose these beautiful evergreens ($20/ea) which should be relatively low maintenance.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAdFHvditMoV1SFeESZbAC-60xXczv_0XLRvt6seVy1sgI2ru0Ic-9dpquRDerVWf_D1WoBrghfo7Mkbwgk_-aR1HVXHFil0aDiyPtDMnlEYgFMk5jlQFlT_JDaAAc9lt_N_7QVzeNuNE/s1600/IMG_4572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAdFHvditMoV1SFeESZbAC-60xXczv_0XLRvt6seVy1sgI2ru0Ic-9dpquRDerVWf_D1WoBrghfo7Mkbwgk_-aR1HVXHFil0aDiyPtDMnlEYgFMk5jlQFlT_JDaAAc9lt_N_7QVzeNuNE/s1600/IMG_4572.jpg" /></a></div><br />He said I could simply leave them in the plastic bin and they'll do fine—no re-potting necessary! That's my kind of gardening. And if I manage to kill them, I can take them back for a full refund within the next year, no questions asked (although I swear I'll try my hardest not to...)<br /><br />And here they are... the first step to improved curb appeal.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEideJ1civORfOcDMfzG8AVXB4MMtC_byz7VOn_hDuO8nC7UJg4B2VDzeflNSagU3nQHxe4QXsSBuE2edXQo57Sa0v9OiwdeT1cRGfCmjGiievP6e3nOY8yYtWEADQe_1vnPQrGyYmXEMwbA/s1600/IMG_5487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEideJ1civORfOcDMfzG8AVXB4MMtC_byz7VOn_hDuO8nC7UJg4B2VDzeflNSagU3nQHxe4QXsSBuE2edXQo57Sa0v9OiwdeT1cRGfCmjGiievP6e3nOY8yYtWEADQe_1vnPQrGyYmXEMwbA/s1600/IMG_5487.jpg" /></a></div><br />I really think they do a lot to anchor the space. We still have a ways to go but it's a good start. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4w7owNaxe5fkvF60uxasVV5giNtPwqHy0w56oCOB_Qm3DVT3uBa8V5WCnAdohmdnTXwWs0azLNqW135gdyTFh9J4-TYXawZUvLRGw32LTJfbcrvs_Dk3BEuOdIzcWjQpH0QSNw6FnXbX7/s1600/IMG_5485.jpg" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I also added bows to my wreaths for fun.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />I had another successful flea market trip this past weekend and I can't wait to set up some of these items for a front porch seasonal display. If you follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/p/vJq5MpPQ0o/?modal=true">instagram</a> you saw this already...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://photos-f.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xaf1/10802739_660995254019397_1480961279_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://photos-f.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xaf1/10802739_660995254019397_1480961279_n.jpg" /></a></div><br />I'll be working on that over the next few days, along with freshening up our foyer for Thanksgiving guests and I'm even throwing in another free printable! I know I'm way behind the industry standard blogging schedule for fall decorating but better late than never, right?<br /><br />Be back in a few days!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePsDFnnEsdCOFBSHdpQJod4_ZVZzT0legJgp79b48LMFMMKnsj3ERWghdY8xhMgo5_PMovtN0sKzRDatsUWGR6Czo9Wzl9lkTXOuobvqZJKSyWZuKho9iAhfWSu5K6QMi9GfJqoCw7dxS/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePsDFnnEsdCOFBSHdpQJod4_ZVZzT0legJgp79b48LMFMMKnsj3ERWghdY8xhMgo5_PMovtN0sKzRDatsUWGR6Czo9Wzl9lkTXOuobvqZJKSyWZuKho9iAhfWSu5K6QMi9GfJqoCw7dxS/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />

DIY (Easy & Inexpensive!) Planter Boxes

I have to be honest—we were pretty underwhelmed when we first stepped out of our realtor's car and laid eyes on this house (well, until ...

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Easy Chalkboard Lettering Tutorial + Free Fall Template!

One thing I love about chalkboards are the ability and ease of which they can become part of your seasonal decor/celebrations. Not to mention how lovely they look on their own <i>(especially when displayed inside a huge <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/thesummeryumbrella">reclaimed wood frame</a>):</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqSOdgXz7bo2RbXpxxVn1-QClCQSBbmjOFwhsAvEb9Z4VEMFAiHuBY6OMKPfJ7JLweQOz1aStpUmq6lUsordKCz0XxCFqz9I-DGnjiOjPebzfxSiE_5Tk9R_tw1q3YMmBv-Ae5GUe22Eds/s1600/Promo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqSOdgXz7bo2RbXpxxVn1-QClCQSBbmjOFwhsAvEb9Z4VEMFAiHuBY6OMKPfJ7JLweQOz1aStpUmq6lUsordKCz0XxCFqz9I-DGnjiOjPebzfxSiE_5Tk9R_tw1q3YMmBv-Ae5GUe22Eds/s1600/Promo.jpg" /></a></div><br />My first chalkboard design, back in April:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yZCnG51VG07LXPHJtSn6hohVEtlAiy8HaWp312qwK2peckz0wF89n4DVR68BvjuMs-116HnfH5NB3pFTCB9Mf6DbMCP1FKQrcO2n4dQovsaDSbPKAES8JzbAj2VbgJxyxCIcN6GEpMri/s1600/IMG_2851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yZCnG51VG07LXPHJtSn6hohVEtlAiy8HaWp312qwK2peckz0wF89n4DVR68BvjuMs-116HnfH5NB3pFTCB9Mf6DbMCP1FKQrcO2n4dQovsaDSbPKAES8JzbAj2VbgJxyxCIcN6GEpMri/s1600/IMG_2851.jpg" /></a></div><br />For our BHG photo shoot last month I switched it up:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSlVPKhG1bOGT3pQDQoKMbc_oohr6AtJa2DPdc-hUN7dFWzYGh1Wd5lAc3SAkD5bRqr-bXEvkhb9zkUJBl_X6DO20eswqbYIf5mjRVDUVRJVpqCqMx3THthEQn8fTaAgHVM7KZr-XUf9w/s1600/10727592_368241563353678_1696914190_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSlVPKhG1bOGT3pQDQoKMbc_oohr6AtJa2DPdc-hUN7dFWzYGh1Wd5lAc3SAkD5bRqr-bXEvkhb9zkUJBl_X6DO20eswqbYIf5mjRVDUVRJVpqCqMx3THthEQn8fTaAgHVM7KZr-XUf9w/s1600/10727592_368241563353678_1696914190_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />I've been having fun coming up with new ideas for different seasons (as well as parties we've had) but when it came time to start thinking about our Thanksgiving decor, I decided to give hand lettering a try.<br /><br />I posted my sketch on <a href="http://instagram.com/jennasuedesign">instagram</a> the other night:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://photos-f.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xaf1/10755876_708699042541893_2111135672_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://photos-f.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xaf1/10755876_708699042541893_2111135672_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />A while back I received requests to share my method for chalkboard lettering. I'm nowhere near skilled enough to freehand something fabulous directly onto a chalkboard, and also I enjoy creating the designs on my computer, so I found a method that works great for transferring printed designs.<br /><br />After I was happy with my sketch, I scanned it in and refined it a bit (I use Illustrator but you can use any word or text editing program to come up with your own):<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMn5iE_PVOx98_MF1K4FoW6Q_l4qveVD2j7LHP0Bk8z1K3P27l45cQWOoEPg-Fjm6t1K4xVG4zhTtiziCLISMDXTn0524aIfsXcCZmvTvre4CeBhKxst-ARP-mAVkIkr1bAUGajrEfuK5o/s1600/IMG_4520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMn5iE_PVOx98_MF1K4FoW6Q_l4qveVD2j7LHP0Bk8z1K3P27l45cQWOoEPg-Fjm6t1K4xVG4zhTtiziCLISMDXTn0524aIfsXcCZmvTvre4CeBhKxst-ARP-mAVkIkr1bAUGajrEfuK5o/s1600/IMG_4520.jpg" /></a></div><br />My chalkboard surface measures a whopping 30x40", so I set my background to that size and scaled my design until it filled a good area of it:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9c_ZBhavnO5uinnGBN___Rxgsv4TvZf8oWBzH0UGA2OVyR3cAG6aFoO2M428hPcaFZOnQpEMyXtnVz4WkLCArgRE9u65OLJHcOJ7AHzKySBawhn3JMU98hzV_I5BN_ePp1XmGmiFpbozc/s1600/Screen-Shot-2014-11-04-at-10.54.43-AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9c_ZBhavnO5uinnGBN___Rxgsv4TvZf8oWBzH0UGA2OVyR3cAG6aFoO2M428hPcaFZOnQpEMyXtnVz4WkLCArgRE9u65OLJHcOJ7AHzKySBawhn3JMU98hzV_I5BN_ePp1XmGmiFpbozc/s1600/Screen-Shot-2014-11-04-at-10.54.43-AM.jpg" /></a></div><br />If you have a larger chalkboard and want to save yourself a couple steps (or don't have the software to do the next step), at this point you can take your file down to a copy place (like Staples or Office Max) and have them print it out on the cheapeast paper possible relatively inexpensively. I didn't feel like getting out of my pajamas so I decided to just split the design across 9 sheets of 8.5x11" paper—that is the grid you see above (the large white box represents the overall chalkboard surface).<br /><br />Then I printed each page out (using the cheapest/thinnest copy paper possible on a draft setting—quality doesn't matter!)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfoqCBbeEjz71R96hvwE4p_D9pf9I6rzypcgKPjw2BuEBnnnyn6z1MXsj6shywI8avJ8fEPDVatE_pr4ovBJZCCZ7OJ0oytp7qwSH0BrY1YUcjrKPpDU_K073COlqYuJZZbs-jb3jiFjbN/s1600/IMG_4522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfoqCBbeEjz71R96hvwE4p_D9pf9I6rzypcgKPjw2BuEBnnnyn6z1MXsj6shywI8avJ8fEPDVatE_pr4ovBJZCCZ7OJ0oytp7qwSH0BrY1YUcjrKPpDU_K073COlqYuJZZbs-jb3jiFjbN/s1600/IMG_4522.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />This next step is also optional, but since my design didn't print borderless, I trimmed off the white edges so I could line them all up without any overlap:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjeVfKoQnourQXwHJX2ckYnsofMDbn3BKhS5fEO6Gi1m2X87MgtJDPIBqvP1VlJ5byedMkhXomm7BeZwyXlH6NxrgwNhuxAXLRb1v1ssDjMJZrbutcFMaW5BfLqHR1QvqqojzJOOcEMAH2/s1600/IMG_4523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjeVfKoQnourQXwHJX2ckYnsofMDbn3BKhS5fEO6Gi1m2X87MgtJDPIBqvP1VlJ5byedMkhXomm7BeZwyXlH6NxrgwNhuxAXLRb1v1ssDjMJZrbutcFMaW5BfLqHR1QvqqojzJOOcEMAH2/s1600/IMG_4523.jpg" /></a></div><br />Then I got brought it over to my chalkboard and got it into position:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0y1iY9kE99SP4MzOFA9zEQO2mAi3CxZqe_7veAnJ3GVS1HccfwcMiTQuoaLH5Ai2EmLHh-yBYo7vhn_HTdpBuvM5nIo2haGQtgr4WOQezG0mwXxUQxxck5eLmSBhY44sVW5vIh53JGFaj/s1600/IMG_4524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0y1iY9kE99SP4MzOFA9zEQO2mAi3CxZqe_7veAnJ3GVS1HccfwcMiTQuoaLH5Ai2EmLHh-yBYo7vhn_HTdpBuvM5nIo2haGQtgr4WOQezG0mwXxUQxxck5eLmSBhY44sVW5vIh53JGFaj/s1600/IMG_4524.jpg" /></a></div><br />Now the chalk comes in. The type of chalk you use is actually quite important. I tried to use a cheap/dollar store brand last time and it didn't work at all. You want chalk that has a more powdery/richer residue and not as slippery/waxy, if that makes sense. I think any decent name brand should work.<br /><br />Simply take your chalk and rub it on the backside of your paper where the design is printed. You can cover the entire paper but I found that just wastes time (and chalk), so I hold the paper up a bit so the light shines behind it and I can see where I'm drawing. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWYTVXnXEqRvg2OL5azmFu2l_FRc-Z3E3HLHeXCYEE5kXHIRFhZe82JYmjrz09PveKLFZVxoOy8EDpEaumeBfL419H0tXDkW50mLKXQ1tXzfm7kxJ49h87So7CkZvkr-u-YSKAod6npflk/s1600/IMG_4525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWYTVXnXEqRvg2OL5azmFu2l_FRc-Z3E3HLHeXCYEE5kXHIRFhZe82JYmjrz09PveKLFZVxoOy8EDpEaumeBfL419H0tXDkW50mLKXQ1tXzfm7kxJ49h87So7CkZvkr-u-YSKAod6npflk/s1600/IMG_4525.jpg" /></a></div><br />You can also use colored chalk for this step—it really doesn't matter much since you'll be covering over it anyway.<br /><br />Once it's covered, set it back in place on the chalkboard, printed side up. Then grab a hard object to use as a burnishing tool. Because the strokes in my design were on the thick side and didn't need to be super exact, I just used the cap of a sharpie, but with more intricate designs I've actually used the tip of a ball point pen.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrobgZFwXNupHw2d55nUwOM65RUTFhsjGQFpsOC-79e-LxE4QXQ9MQQBoEb16uieFqlroA39W3ToSvejRDS2IpaNk3d0Umf0M1xryp556nobgpZYtKhFEVTte5QHKZhmLjfFvZREo9gZmC/s1600/IMG_4527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrobgZFwXNupHw2d55nUwOM65RUTFhsjGQFpsOC-79e-LxE4QXQ9MQQBoEb16uieFqlroA39W3ToSvejRDS2IpaNk3d0Umf0M1xryp556nobgpZYtKhFEVTte5QHKZhmLjfFvZREo9gZmC/s1600/IMG_4527.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Staying within the lines of your design, apply firm pressure until you've covered the surface to transfer the chalk powder onto your board. Before going too far, lift up a corner to make sure it's working.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw-wKfV9rPrlffbHbTTFdE5zR9B5smMNjW_gZz-MaFVy6yde1ExqaU7SW_4M07cTMHpIi3avERwwW6nPnV8sRwhRe7-HigTeyavLd5GEFEQjNeiwwcgqlppMGP8WDqFG5VgoQcsAiiHRq6/s1600/IMG_4528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw-wKfV9rPrlffbHbTTFdE5zR9B5smMNjW_gZz-MaFVy6yde1ExqaU7SW_4M07cTMHpIi3avERwwW6nPnV8sRwhRe7-HigTeyavLd5GEFEQjNeiwwcgqlppMGP8WDqFG5VgoQcsAiiHRq6/s1600/IMG_4528.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Once you see it working, you can tape that sheet of paper in place and apply the chalk to the back of the other sheets.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4I7gLRs0sQbhwsFCMqeWZ98IrZlAAjmUiQcTERrwtVsmbzMZjL-zdOltO8SuVly_nsUGTHlXRo1jW-7mP_1dvaGXxXXDhpj32Oy15kbmH7LVwd-9qZOmHwH7cuPqIRADrwaO9cT5fisgd/s1600/IMG_4526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4I7gLRs0sQbhwsFCMqeWZ98IrZlAAjmUiQcTERrwtVsmbzMZjL-zdOltO8SuVly_nsUGTHlXRo1jW-7mP_1dvaGXxXXDhpj32Oy15kbmH7LVwd-9qZOmHwH7cuPqIRADrwaO9cT5fisgd/s1600/IMG_4526.jpg" /></a></div><br />I took a sheet adjacent to the piece I had just taped, applied chalk to the back, taped it back in place and then repeated the process. Removing one sheet at a time makes it easier to keep everything in position.<br /><br />Once the chalk was fully applied to the back and everything was taped into place, I continued to trace the design with my sharpie cap. You don't have to spend too much time on this—the general idea is just to get an outline that you can trace and refine with chalk (or a chalk pen).<br /><br />And here it is! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DRlNngxoKg3VLzFH61lWb390g-qstKzo30Sx1N7dgrQPycZk1E7zVnwXwR68anJOIRexzDGr7jzGCM7YhSb7_AZLhRjtjsQO5wVgmIYy3c83p_01DanI3rGtxvfWNkWeVyqKnH63bfst/s1600/IMG_4529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DRlNngxoKg3VLzFH61lWb390g-qstKzo30Sx1N7dgrQPycZk1E7zVnwXwR68anJOIRexzDGr7jzGCM7YhSb7_AZLhRjtjsQO5wVgmIYy3c83p_01DanI3rGtxvfWNkWeVyqKnH63bfst/s1600/IMG_4529.jpg" /></a></div><br />Finally, it's just a matter of filling it in. You can make the strokes as thin or as thick as you'd like, or just follow the template. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUXhERAF4ZKtfWmwLLZchhpvFJfpJRv94_0kTXY35XSNgoUquTaMl1sOFMO6rLXeuyHfxiKNr1kOxU_N34nxT5RnKEv1k0gLqsDUKMMndOvrcDe7eUxtatxoJuE7CpRPkk1R-0kspFKyp/s1600/IMG_4531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUXhERAF4ZKtfWmwLLZchhpvFJfpJRv94_0kTXY35XSNgoUquTaMl1sOFMO6rLXeuyHfxiKNr1kOxU_N34nxT5RnKEv1k0gLqsDUKMMndOvrcDe7eUxtatxoJuE7CpRPkk1R-0kspFKyp/s1600/IMG_4531.jpg" /></a></div><br />My little apprentice was watching intently.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabNz3Cbnt5778mmIZdR1fkPvEfvfcQD2Ev6zPW73ilWUdX-izjRN1Ls8rI0NuMq9apAL15KrEfCfxZs6iHzH99Jj32-6XMmO4JSPhmXcD8bqXIKiSDNJlZbRhtHqPtJ_Tikm4W5oMiv8h/s1600/IMG_4530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabNz3Cbnt5778mmIZdR1fkPvEfvfcQD2Ev6zPW73ilWUdX-izjRN1Ls8rI0NuMq9apAL15KrEfCfxZs6iHzH99Jj32-6XMmO4JSPhmXcD8bqXIKiSDNJlZbRhtHqPtJ_Tikm4W5oMiv8h/s1600/IMG_4530.jpg" /></a></div><br />I thought about going festive with orange chalk, but decided to keep it more traditional and classic with the black and white.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZfwG2_CNT10gmQVqQRuge29-FCSWxbe2sh8e8sqrs5o81XpRwQ_y6F-OfBsDpnJ_BB6pudFPxIqwoCE57lVEPQyk_il_Ba2fTXW-Hh-920uapr_FjJRweCbKQ70vglC_YqHcK0_qk5br/s1600/IMG_4534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZfwG2_CNT10gmQVqQRuge29-FCSWxbe2sh8e8sqrs5o81XpRwQ_y6F-OfBsDpnJ_BB6pudFPxIqwoCE57lVEPQyk_il_Ba2fTXW-Hh-920uapr_FjJRweCbKQ70vglC_YqHcK0_qk5br/s1600/IMG_4534.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Whenever we have gatherings, guests usually end up doodling or writing messages on the chalkboard and I can see this being filled with things our guests are thankful for this Thanksgiving.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3T-ODd4Iy5FmCxIUdxWK7chjr1AGFBEy2HKcOX6qi8u_0-E84bHJfEir28mYDbEtkI2pioW6KT6wGPEMs7rpKD7waZc8a-wy3uXuzlL0eBQ85ScaLMm5tVgISLw2M1u8kMvkbpTNpJauN/s1600/IMG_5474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3T-ODd4Iy5FmCxIUdxWK7chjr1AGFBEy2HKcOX6qi8u_0-E84bHJfEir28mYDbEtkI2pioW6KT6wGPEMs7rpKD7waZc8a-wy3uXuzlL0eBQ85ScaLMm5tVgISLw2M1u8kMvkbpTNpJauN/s1600/IMG_5474.jpg" /></a></div><br />Speaking of Thanksgiving—we're hosting up to 12 people this year (my first time ever), so the planning is underway! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLvtEzggOo6MDYM-sh2j_1E18gzX5uZhGdMbL5UDDIjt4w2FDJrIznyRfXpzGoM-_eZ3Ji9N0teOjLUXy2HNf0rUp92D1-ki15xKohl3IsSrfJ9HVv_yOrln5jFVQT-A2fl2D1Wg5c7dpA/s1600/IMG_5473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLvtEzggOo6MDYM-sh2j_1E18gzX5uZhGdMbL5UDDIjt4w2FDJrIznyRfXpzGoM-_eZ3Ji9N0teOjLUXy2HNf0rUp92D1-ki15xKohl3IsSrfJ9HVv_yOrln5jFVQT-A2fl2D1Wg5c7dpA/s1600/IMG_5473.jpg" /></a></div><br /> Thankfully we have a table that was built just for this purpose.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw2ad92nyZxBcY24XKvdWukVljS5SJqyKzpM8n2zjibnvRgNyibvtNanbF3zY-DnrdtWEWAstrV3LGNAA4mETVYO_kNzQDlnw7EHv9vAg6h4JeZu7AhFViwP1-N0cmC7pPM8OCIJ1OeXhk/s1600/IMG_5479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw2ad92nyZxBcY24XKvdWukVljS5SJqyKzpM8n2zjibnvRgNyibvtNanbF3zY-DnrdtWEWAstrV3LGNAA4mETVYO_kNzQDlnw7EHv9vAg6h4JeZu7AhFViwP1-N0cmC7pPM8OCIJ1OeXhk/s1600/IMG_5479.jpg" /></a></div><br />This chalkboard is only the first touch of fall in this kitchen, but there's more on the way!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yJ2UyZAMrten8Q1STsMwtMyJtAMPLr1imQhhcCONKgBYNZ6jxDNywb5wQ-W47qW9jhC4ZTZ7edjJTYgLXsgPQ4S48Dd8TH3v0A8pMEfgECDnvJ5jH8rPftE47FAsN8G_hMVdvtnJb9Jk/s1600/IMG_5477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yJ2UyZAMrten8Q1STsMwtMyJtAMPLr1imQhhcCONKgBYNZ6jxDNywb5wQ-W47qW9jhC4ZTZ7edjJTYgLXsgPQ4S48Dd8TH3v0A8pMEfgECDnvJ5jH8rPftE47FAsN8G_hMVdvtnJb9Jk/s1600/IMG_5477.jpg" /></a></div><br />I have lots of flea market shopping and DIY'ing to do and plan to share updates of our front porch, foyer and dining table over the next couple weeks.<br /><br />In the meantime... who wants a free Give Thanks template? I've made it super easy for you to download and print to use on your own chalkboard. Or simply print it out and frame it as art if you'd like. It's an 8x10" file but you can scale it up to any size for the chalkboard template since the quality doesn't make a difference.<br /><br />Just head over to my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jennasuedesign/app_137541772984354">Facebook page to download!</a> (You may have to click Continue or OK to be redirected)<br /><br />Alright, time to get the ball rolling on our front porch which is in major need of some updates. I'll be back next week with some progress (starting with another DIY wood working project—wish me luck!)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePsDFnnEsdCOFBSHdpQJod4_ZVZzT0legJgp79b48LMFMMKnsj3ERWghdY8xhMgo5_PMovtN0sKzRDatsUWGR6Czo9Wzl9lkTXOuobvqZJKSyWZuKho9iAhfWSu5K6QMi9GfJqoCw7dxS/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePsDFnnEsdCOFBSHdpQJod4_ZVZzT0legJgp79b48LMFMMKnsj3ERWghdY8xhMgo5_PMovtN0sKzRDatsUWGR6Czo9Wzl9lkTXOuobvqZJKSyWZuKho9iAhfWSu5K6QMi9GfJqoCw7dxS/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />

Easy Chalkboard Lettering Tutorial + Free Fall Template!

One thing I love about chalkboards are the ability and ease of which they can become part of your seasonal decor/celebrations. Not to mentio...

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Living Room: A Complete Source List

Alright folks, the wait is finally over! Today I'm sharing the complete source list for our living room along with all of the links to recap our journey. Make sure to check out the full <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-big-living-room-reveal.html">Reveal post</a> from last week if you haven't yet!<br /><br />Let's start with the basics:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzlsC4T_qlFlVeCLTiLNNVzb2X2nbfFG3wcnoaBzCX8QXqOOgLwv9tSGABAod2C7r03vH8C6r2MFVVu7KUAlw1XTLdg9CmwHZiBt5gI3I4f2HKY7f_oDIHT56yKYHIRfMJudPS5kmpEUR/s1600/IMG_5463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzlsC4T_qlFlVeCLTiLNNVzb2X2nbfFG3wcnoaBzCX8QXqOOgLwv9tSGABAod2C7r03vH8C6r2MFVVu7KUAlw1XTLdg9CmwHZiBt5gI3I4f2HKY7f_oDIHT56yKYHIRfMJudPS5kmpEUR/s1600/IMG_5463.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Wall color: <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_432979-4-50081AMONTPELIERMADW_0__?productId=50161963">Valspar's Montpelier Madison White</a> (in flat)<br />Trim, plank wall & ceiling color: <a href="http://kellymoore.com/mycolorstudio-color-palette/?p=E5E5E1|544540|F1EEE5">Kelly Moore's Swiss Coffee</a><br />Flooring: <a href="https://www.floorstoyourhome.com/products/armstrong-lock-and-fold-hardwood-5-plank-timberland-collection-shell-white-walnut.html">Armstrong Engineered Walnut in Shell White</a><br />Beams: DIY (<a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/02/kitchen-chronicles-diy-wood-beams.html">my tutorial here</a>)<br />Fireplace stone: Lowe's <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_354393-93840-20-616_0__?productId=3477519">Desert Quartz Ledgestone</a><br />Fireplace hearth: Lowe's <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_446993-1813-1095283_0__?productId=4616440&Ntt=style+selections+tile&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Dstyle%2Bselections%2Btile&facetInfo=">Style Selections Leonia Silver Porcelain Tile</a><br />Mantel: DIY Salvaged beam with Minwax's Dark Walnut stain (<a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/09/living-room-progress-report.html">installation</a>)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXwuVOi-w9YMTzpiNwM3vCOZ_x5TT3ECMqPQZXAnNxG5ZnZcr2OSCTbhhYkYKXJdJoj4ZLH50CikILX0Y-TFEyipT_uJHFb7XReUn-GbwkpJVmglyoQCUSJ5Y9xjWbEHdGwpK_DCYFfgMb/s1600/IMG_5458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXwuVOi-w9YMTzpiNwM3vCOZ_x5TT3ECMqPQZXAnNxG5ZnZcr2OSCTbhhYkYKXJdJoj4ZLH50CikILX0Y-TFEyipT_uJHFb7XReUn-GbwkpJVmglyoQCUSJ5Y9xjWbEHdGwpK_DCYFfgMb/s1600/IMG_5458.jpg" /></a></div><br />Art: <a href="http://www.jennasuedesign.com/roman-numerals/">Custom Roman Numerals Print</a> / <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/205559464/20x28-reclaimed-wood-picture-frame?ref=shop_home_feat_3">Reclaimed wood frame</a><br />Black frame: <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30186054/">Ikea Nyttja frame</a> / <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2013/07/easy-diy-50-gallery-wall.html">DIY mat & photo</a><br />Brass candlesticks: Flea market<br />Antler candle holder: Gift from friend<br />Metal pitcher: Thrift store<br />Black lanterns: <a href="http://www.snedcowholesale.com/Candle_Lanterns/c203/index.html">Snedco Wholesale</a><br />White pumpkins: <a href="http://www.michaels.com/">Michael</a><a href="http://www.michaels.com/">s</a><br />Wood log basket: ? (super old)<br />Pillows: <a href="http://www.ikea.com/">Ikea</a><br />Rug: <a href="http://www.rugsusa.com/rugsusa/rugs/rugs-usa-chunky-loop/bleached/200NCCL01-P.html">Rugs USA </a>(in bleached)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_t_CkdWQQkt9QVn-ZZ5g8pHeWR2fn29QmfuBsXzE4NONjrTGRYgooauV5nkdGgP17xxHymhJzI_bynZ8eVXquTOze7Vxmrbnps8PeCROZRdVWKC-YEdLn4blA3d0_rrHt4CBany0-olJV/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_t_CkdWQQkt9QVn-ZZ5g8pHeWR2fn29QmfuBsXzE4NONjrTGRYgooauV5nkdGgP17xxHymhJzI_bynZ8eVXquTOze7Vxmrbnps8PeCROZRdVWKC-YEdLn4blA3d0_rrHt4CBany0-olJV/s1600/1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Custom pouf: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/StitchIsBack">Etsy</a> (highly recommended!)<br />Loveseat & chaise lounge: <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/series/18329/">Ikea Kivik</a><br />Armchair: Craigslist<br />White Covers: <a href="http://comfort-works.com/en/liege/lino-biscuit-496">Comfort Works in Liege Eggshell</a><br />Tree Stump table: <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/10/living-room-details-diy-cabinet-tree.html">DIY</a><br />Deer pillow: <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/201109888688?_trksid=p2060778.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT">Ebay</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX83k3pWcx8BRXV2jn3Od8hw-xpL2yL-79DRH4vj_W-WQCEYr-y6b_6z9p0cu_AuQK0SULOdj7lMhJ95dB8xHeydNdJVdZzIKzCgRwYQcK2QJRHk24Kmk4nUO1RoNWKsxVS6NzAb6rQPUo/s1600/IMG_5363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX83k3pWcx8BRXV2jn3Od8hw-xpL2yL-79DRH4vj_W-WQCEYr-y6b_6z9p0cu_AuQK0SULOdj7lMhJ95dB8xHeydNdJVdZzIKzCgRwYQcK2QJRHk24Kmk4nUO1RoNWKsxVS6NzAb6rQPUo/s1600/IMG_5363.jpg" /></a></div><br />All other pillow covers: <a href="http://www.ikea.com/">Ikea</a><br />Ivory throw: <a href="http://www.homegoods.com/">Home Goods</a><br />Curtains: <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80063833/">Ikea Ritva</a><br />Bamboo blinds: <a href="http://justblinds.com/">Justblinds.com</a> (Singapore Oak color)<br />Ladder: DIY<br />Brown blanket: Flea market / Plaid blanket: <a href="http://www.target.com/">Target</a><br />Wreath: <a href="http://www.homegoods.com/">Home Goods</a><br />Wall sconce: <a href="http://www.lightingdirect.com/nuvo-lighting-76-621-single-light-10-150w-industrial-style-wall-mount-fixture-with-frosted-glass-shade-in-old-bronze/p1949431?source=gg-gba-pla_1949431____27796106729&s_kwcid=PTC!pla!!!54303275009!g!!27796106729&gclid=CO3Rwbak1LwCFUNffgodjVQASw">Lighting Direct</a> (painted black)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVO951tqxItQ7VTdGnEcus7KKfxN28RT9t6wT0Zlgprb94jG82AkggQ9vu4I-z6s_JRtfH_Oh43fhGoDTul2-ryFOSk95yNLNA8y7FQXIK9ugXDRrfhzCHGbVq0VElO0XcH5XXO9VacBb/s1600/IMG_5426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVO951tqxItQ7VTdGnEcus7KKfxN28RT9t6wT0Zlgprb94jG82AkggQ9vu4I-z6s_JRtfH_Oh43fhGoDTul2-ryFOSk95yNLNA8y7FQXIK9ugXDRrfhzCHGbVq0VElO0XcH5XXO9VacBb/s1600/IMG_5426.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Antique cabinet: Craigslist (<a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/09/living-room-progress-report.html">DIY refinish</a>)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mirror: Craigslist (DIY white wash)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Vase: <a href="http://www.target.com/">Target</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Antler: Flea market</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Scale: Flea market</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Gourds: <a href="http://www.joann.com/">Joann</a> (painted)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Metal containers & vintage books: Flea market</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Wood lanterns: Pier 1 or World Market (I think... it was years ago)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsukljdaG0rrxhtaunJFaeYYmw_9oZLgtlGCjMbg9942NGabFUb2CNTGtZ3kX9pZWx9rj9za8JGbdY_LnwAHGwzLicT31Zvu5deEqzaRFTCSztUTET8m28OMrQWcsGX5_Dy1sV-SvXXjx7/s1600/IMG_5416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsukljdaG0rrxhtaunJFaeYYmw_9oZLgtlGCjMbg9942NGabFUb2CNTGtZ3kX9pZWx9rj9za8JGbdY_LnwAHGwzLicT31Zvu5deEqzaRFTCSztUTET8m28OMrQWcsGX5_Dy1sV-SvXXjx7/s1600/IMG_5416.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Coat rack: <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/10/living-room-updates-diy-reclaimed-wood.html">DIY</a> with Lowe's hardware</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Basket: Mom's (sorry Mom)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Scarf: <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Category.aspx?br=f21&category=acc_scarf-gloves&pagesize=120&page=2">Forever 21</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Pumpkins: <a href="http://www.michaels.com/">Michaels</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WWyqfWtsHw8sbfKkRldzmdMZLkUytV31m5v2LyhZcULO3B4PAU889gukWITZaiVopU-Z-9TCiCKsrFfp4tqmi7suAEI1qysYqJ9FJE1_VyzbOLcyEwRNSA-jujWDQ0x88ORQagMEbloz/s1600/IMG_5362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WWyqfWtsHw8sbfKkRldzmdMZLkUytV31m5v2LyhZcULO3B4PAU889gukWITZaiVopU-Z-9TCiCKsrFfp4tqmi7suAEI1qysYqJ9FJE1_VyzbOLcyEwRNSA-jujWDQ0x88ORQagMEbloz/s1600/IMG_5362.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Console table: <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/10/living-room-details-diy-cabinet-tree.html">DIY</a> (via <a href="http://www.shanty-2-chic.com/2013/03/diy-table-shanty-console-table.html">Shanty 2 Chic</a>)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Art: (source at beginning of post)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Metal pitcher: <a href="http://www.joann.com/">Joann</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Baskets: <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/storage/binsBaskets/viewAll?productId=10035370&N=81212&Nao=0">Container Store</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lantern: Antique shop</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDC235r3VjwiemHFDoy3jeJuAR8UaxOD2-8mWVJrZtmqh8TJ5IKcGJdc-2FkN7yXuRNMuccUUmTxt-ObjKmFSDnrtC05SoLd1E7B2HyZYkGXq7xjSdxau_zn7Z5O5MW6aGXw6DsOQHn6zk/s1600/IMG_5433-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDC235r3VjwiemHFDoy3jeJuAR8UaxOD2-8mWVJrZtmqh8TJ5IKcGJdc-2FkN7yXuRNMuccUUmTxt-ObjKmFSDnrtC05SoLd1E7B2HyZYkGXq7xjSdxau_zn7Z5O5MW6aGXw6DsOQHn6zk/s1600/IMG_5433-2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Vintage chest: Flea market</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lamp: <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Adesso-AF39065-Better-Homes-and-Gardens-Hinged-Desk-Lamp-Bronze-Finish/26095306">Walmart</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Blanket: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lavish-Home-Throw-Blanket-Cashmere-Like/dp/B00G90FKZK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1414971928&sr=8-1&keywords=lavish+home+acrylic+blanket">Amazon</a> (cheapest source I've found but available at multiple stores) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.jennasuedesign.com/script-quote/">Custom Quote print</a> via Jenna Sue Design / Frame: <a href="http://www.target.com/">Target</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Vintage books: Flea market</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And... I think that covers it! Don't hesitate to ask if you have any other questions or need clarification!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In case you missed any of the progress, here's all of the living room updates:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/02/living-room-plank-wall-diy.html">DIY Plank Wall</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/03/new-living-room-paint-fireplace-makeover.html">Wall paint & fireplace update phase 1</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/04/we-have-new-stair-railing.html">New stair railing</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/05/living-room-updates.html">Window treatments & summer decor</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/08/living-room-reno-inspiration-gameplan.html">Inspiration & Gameplan</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/09/living-room-reno-progress-latest-flea.html">Ceiling Planks</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/09/living-room-progress-report.html">Fireplace updates, recessed lighting & cabinet makeover</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/09/living-room-update-decorating-for-fall.html">Beams, black french door & fall decor</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/09/a-vintage-glass-doorknob-diy-for-under.html">Super cheap DIY vintage glass knob</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/10/living-room-updates-diy-reclaimed-wood.html">DIY Reclaimed wood coat rack</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/10/diy-wood-side-table-subwoofer-enclosure.html">DIY side table/subwoofer enclosure</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-evolution-of-our-living-room.html">Completed fireplace</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/10/living-room-details-diy-cabinet-tree.html">DIY Cabinet, tree stump & slipcovers</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As for the total cost, I didn't keep track of the details so unfortunately I can't give an exact number. By far, the most expensive element was the fireplace with the stone coming in around $1300 and labor at around $1900. I just ran through the list for a quick total (mostly off the top of my head) and I came up with a ballpark in the $5k range. This is not including the flooring and wood planks (since we bought that in bulk for the whole house) nor does it include items we've owned since our last home like the couches, rug, pillows and art. If so much of it wasn't DIY'd/thrifted you can bet we'd have spent a least double.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Even though $5k isn't a drop in the bucket, I'm absolutely positive it's increased our home's value by several times over that amount (the benefit of buying a fixer in a nicer neighborhood!) so it was all a worthwhile investment. Not to mention how happy it makes us and will be enjoyed for years to come (hopefully ;) )</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiHcOuHMykBVjYyyfpsaj5fuJqgp9NerUep-3O_q4oTx_FtrFtWbsxNEYO9P4x07OtioRLd1U8PBmi9fmSoflT3wAL0UjQX1PZeJJH6xSoZ5t5qM1f4MJwsk0NUEbipcdRV_Lz6mHRcpN/s1600/IMG_5457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiHcOuHMykBVjYyyfpsaj5fuJqgp9NerUep-3O_q4oTx_FtrFtWbsxNEYO9P4x07OtioRLd1U8PBmi9fmSoflT3wAL0UjQX1PZeJJH6xSoZ5t5qM1f4MJwsk0NUEbipcdRV_Lz6mHRcpN/s1600/IMG_5457.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So... what's on our agenda next? Between the upcoming holidays, hosting family gatherings and an increased workload, we've decided not to jump into any new projects until January. But don't think that means this blog will go silent... I can't tell you how excited I am to decorate for the holidays! I have a million ideas swirling around in my head and with just 24 days until Thanksgiving, planning starts <i>now.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll be back in a few days with a festive Thanksgiving chalkboard tutorial (+ a free download so you can print your own!). 'Tis the season—bring it on!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePsDFnnEsdCOFBSHdpQJod4_ZVZzT0legJgp79b48LMFMMKnsj3ERWghdY8xhMgo5_PMovtN0sKzRDatsUWGR6Czo9Wzl9lkTXOuobvqZJKSyWZuKho9iAhfWSu5K6QMi9GfJqoCw7dxS/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePsDFnnEsdCOFBSHdpQJod4_ZVZzT0legJgp79b48LMFMMKnsj3ERWghdY8xhMgo5_PMovtN0sKzRDatsUWGR6Czo9Wzl9lkTXOuobvqZJKSyWZuKho9iAhfWSu5K6QMi9GfJqoCw7dxS/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>

Living Room: A Complete Source List

Alright folks, the wait is finally over! Today I'm sharing the complete source list for our living room along with all of the links to r...

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