Rustic Country Decor - How to Decorate Cottage Style Homes

Rustic country decor and how to decorate cottage style homes are extensions of American country style decorating. In addition, traditions are borrowed from French, English and some Swedish country looks. Rustic country decor can be defined as coarse, charmingly simple, unfussy, unfinished and yet with endearing qualities. Rustic country decorating includes the use of natural woods, aged surfaces, rough finishes and simple lines. Cottage style homes are comfortable, modest, quaint homes that can be made of thick stone or log wood.

Floors in rustic country decor and cottage style homes are made with stone or wood materials. Wooden floors were traditionally constructed with boards that were bare and simply waxed and hand-polished (high-gloss varnishes did not exist). Sometimes the boards were painted with light colors. If you like floor coverings, use oriental rugs and throws for visual warmth and color. Rustic country decor is about handcrafted objects, simplicity, furnishings that you enjoy and connecting back to nature.

Rustic cottage furniture is commonly made with pine and perhaps painted with hand-painted designs such as flowers, birds, animals, country scenery or leaves. Use ladderback chairs, rocking chairs, benches, wicker furniture and Windsor chairs. A large rectangular table made of pine is a good option for your kitchen or dining room table. To give your furniture a rustic look, brush a coat of paint on the furniture piece, then rub most of the paint off. After it dries, apply wood stain unevenly for an older weathered appearance. It will be perfect and rustic looking!

Baskets can be used to store wood, pine cones, flowers, plants and needlework. Brass candle holders, oil or kerosene lamps, sconces, hurricane lamps, tin lanterns, recessed ceiling fixtures or a vintage wrought-iron or metal chandelier provide successful lighting for rustic country decor and cottage style homes. Colors used in rustic country decor or cottage style homes are neutral tones ranging from white to bone, earth tones, red barn, blues and greens.

For rustic country decor in the kitchen, use open shelves, hutches, buffets, plate racks and cupboards for storage. Often, country kitchen storage is crammed with stoneware pots, plain glazed earthenware and glass jars. Kitchen pots should be made of copper, steel or cast iron -- cookware tends to be large and plain. Use open shelving in the rustic country kitchen to display plates, dishes and dinnerware collections. Natural woods, light colors and bright fabrics work great for window treatments. Adding a rustic butcher block island creates a wonderful visual effect as well as provides useful functionality.

A rustic country decor bathroom has neutral tones or soft colored walls, antique-looking lighting, and wooden antiques or antique reproduction cabinets and vanity. Knowing how to decorate cottage style homes and bathrooms can result in creating a calm and elegant atmosphere. Clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, country style antique brass faucets and old-fashioned country cabinets provide the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to spend time there. Plain white towels are recommended instead of patterned or bright modern patterns. Use wicker or wire baskets to keep your sponges, loofas and shampoos handy near the tub or shower.

Understanding how to decorate cottage style homes means including items like quilts, antique furniture or reproductions, flea-market pieces, trunks, chests, armoires, stenciling, wallpaper, adirondack chairs, flower wreaths and bistro chairs. These types of elements give cottage style homes the kind of rustic country decor that is simpler, very personal and warmly inviting.

Whether in a seaside setting, an urban environment, a countryside location or a wooded mountain retreat, cottage style homes are cozy and unassuming, combining the past with the present. Read all you can find and learn what creating the rustic country cottage means to you no matter where it's located. Enjoy expressing your personality and showing what the definition of home means to you.

Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing

David Buster is VP of InfoSearch Publishing and webmaster of http://www.yourdreamloghome.com - visit the website and learn more about rustic country home decor and design, rustic kitchens and bathrooms, log cabins, fireplaces and firewood and much more.

Checklist for Setting Up a Home

No matter how many times I've set up a new home, there have always been too many trips to a variety of stores for a couple more things to make my new house a home. This check list is the result of my involvement the last couple of years investing in Florida properties that I renovate and then stock with everything including the silverware. Seasonal real estate buyers in the market will pay a premium for turn-key homes, where all they have to do is wheel their luggage in. My latest and fourth book 1001 Tips for Buying and Selling a Home started me on this enjoyable voyage of helping others through their home purchase and selling maze.

Kitchen

Cutting board

Microwave

Coffee maker

Electric mixer

Toaster

Blender

1-Quart covered saucepan

2-Quart covered saucepan

4-Quart pot

10 Inch skillet with cover

2-Quart rectangular baking dish

15" X 10" X 2" baking pan

2-Cookie sheets

Wire cooling racks

Mixing bowl set

Timer

Bottle opener

Wine opener/ corkscrew

Can opener

Glass measuring cup

Measuring spoons

Measuring cups

Colander

Steamer

Chef's knife

Paring knife

Serrated knife

Knife sharpener

Rubber spatulas

Tongs

Slotted spoon

Vegetable peeler

Wooden spoons

Ladle

Dish towels

Pot holders

Silverware, serving spoons

Everyday dinnerware, serving bowls,soup bowls

Glassware

Salt and pepper shakers

Glass pitcher

Coffee mugs

Paper towel holder

Storage containers

Furniture

Sofa

Lounge chair

Coffee and end tables

Entertainment center

Dining table and side chairs

Head board and foot board

Box spring and mattress

Nightstands

Dresser

Desk/Computer station

Accessories

Votive candle holders

Votive candles

Floor and table lamps

Casual throw pillows

Artwork

Decorative mirrors

Window treatments

Area rugs

Flower vase

Green plants

Plant stands

Linens

Bed sheets, pillowcases

Bed skirt

Blanket

Casual throw

Mattress pad

Bath towels

Bath mat

Shower curtain

Shower curtain liner

Shower curtain hooks

Shower curtain rods

Guest towels

Dish towels

Place mats and napkins

Tablecloth

Cleaning and household supplies

Vacuum cleaner

Ironing board and cover

Iron

Broom and dust pan

Floor mop

Cleaning bucket

Dish soap

Dishwasher detergent

Scrub pads

Sponges

Rags

Aluminum foil

Plastic wrap

Wax paper

Plastic storage bags

Plastic garbage bags

Paper towels

Paper Napkins

Kleenex

Toilet paper

Glass cleaner

Soap and scum cleaner

Floor cleaner

Dust cleaner

Laundry detergent, dryer sheets,liquid softener

Spray starch

Kitchen waste basket

Bathroom waste basket

Miscellaneous

Laundry basket

Clothes hangers, shirts, pants, ties

Wine rack

First aid kit

Sewing kit

Smoke detector

Carbon Monoxide detector

Fire extinguisher

Full length mirror

Tool kit, hammer,screw drivers

Hardware, nails,drywall screws,picture hanging hooks

Extension cords

Mark Nash's fourth real estate book, "1001 Tips for Buying and Selling a Home" (2005), and working as a real estate broker in Chicago are the foundation for his consumer-centric real estate perspective which has been featured on ABC-TV, CBS The Early Show, Bloomberg TV, CNN-TV, Chicago Sun Times & Tribune, Fidelity Investor’s Weekly, Dow Jones Market Watch, HGTVpro.com, MSNBC.com, The New York Times, Realty Times, Universal Press Syndicate and USA Today.

The Camper's Delight - Wax Fire Starters

I am a big fan of camping, at least until I get out to it. Usually, my biggest gripe with camping is trying to get a campfire lit to take the chill out of the morning. Everyone is huddled around a dead campfire, teeth chattering, waiting for something to happen so they can warm up after a cool night in the tent and start making breakfast.

It never fails, the campfire takes longer than it did the night before but if you have the camper's secret weapon, wax fire starters, you can get those campfires going in no time. Not only are the wax fire starters weather resistant and handy, they are also a great way to get rid of your excess candle wax that you have lying around the house.

When it comes to making the Wax Fire Starters, it is very easy to make. You should be careful since you will be working with hot wax and this is not an activity that I would recommend that you do with kids. It is a craft that doesn't need too many supplies and they are fairly inexpensive to make.

What you need:

o Old wax (this can be old candles or even crayons. You could also go and purchase wax from a craft store)

o Sawdust or wood chips

o Dryer Lint

o Muffin Tin

o Wax Muffin Cups

o Double boiler

Directions:

1. Remove all the wicks and wrappings from the candles and crayons. Set them aside.

2. Place all the old wax into the double boiler and melt on medium-low heat. If you don't have a double boiler, use a coffee can or a boil and place it inside a pot filled with a few inches of water. Make sure to keep the water level high enough to burn the pot and also be careful not to spill the bowl.

3. Before you begin melting the wax, fill the muffin tin with the muffin cups.

4. Add some dryer lint to the muffin cups.

5. With the sawdust or wood chips, there are two ways that you can use them. The first way is to add them to the melted wax, making a wax and wood mixture. The second is to add them to the muffin cups. It is simply a matter of preference and I don't think one works better than the other.

6. After the wax has melted completely, carefully pour it into each of the muffin cups. Make sure to leave about half an inch between the top of the tin and the wax.

7. Set to the side and allow them to cool completely.

8. Store them in plastic baggies for the camping trip. The best way is to wrap them individually in a paper towel so there is no chance that they will melt and stick together.

Once you are camping and enjoying the great outdoors, the wax fire starters are very easy to use. All you need to do is set up a tepee or log cabin of kindling, place the fire starter in the center and light it. It should flare up and burn for about 5 minutes, long enough to catch the kindling and get your fire going.

One of the best features of wax fire starters are the fact that they can be used in practically any type of weather. They are water resistant and keep down the amount of supplies that you need in your camping inventory.

Before you use a fire starter, it is important to stress that fire starters should never be used as a candle. They burn very quickly and very hot and will cause serious injuries if you use them for anything except outdoor campfire starters.

Sirena Van Schaik is a professional writer who provides information on candle making and candle holders for Candles Online Magazine.

How to Decorate Your Outdoor Living Space

After a long, hard winter cooped up indoors, you deserve to get outside and enjoy your outdoor space to the fullest. Most of us opt to enjoy our homes more in lieu of the expense and aggravation of traveling in these economic and uncertain times. With just a few simple steps, you can spend more time outdoors no matter what the reason or occasion.

Define a Space

Start by defining an area where you will spend time much like your indoor living space. Whether it's a paved patio, an area of your lawn, or a deck, envision how you want it to function and feel. Create this area by adding an element of privacy. This can be achieved by setting up a canopy, awning or gazebo or by using fabric panels or large plants to define the space. The idea is to create a room where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors but still feel a sense of privacy and seclusion when desired.

Furnish your Outdoor Room

Now that you have defined an area for outdoor living, you need to furnish it. You will want to think comfort here. Choose furniture that you would feel comfortable lounging in for hours. Be practical and think durability as well as easy maintenance. There are many outdoor furniture to choose from at varying price points. If your area is covered from the elements, then furniture with cushions would be great. If not, you might think about wicker or wrought iron where you can remove the cushions in the event of rain. Don't forget surface areas for your food and drinks. Consider side tables and a center table. Think dual purpose like a table that doubles as a fire pit on chilly nights or beverage holder/chiller conveniently at hand. The possibilities are endless.

Create Ambiance

This is my favorite part. Creating a room that lifts your spirits, relaxes you and provides all the comforts of being indoors. You need to decorate now by adding all the elements that will make your room inviting and warm. Outdoor lighting is the next thing to consider. If you have a gazebo or overhead canopy, try hanging a candle chandelier or lantern for overhead lighting. Place candle wall sconces on surrounding walls or surfaces. You can use regular candles or LED flameless candles here. It's eco-friendly and does not require any electrical hookup. Place candleholders around your living space to add warm candle glow at night. Also think solar lights for spaces that are uncovered. Up lights and path lights are great to highlight walkways, plants and trees. Make use of the free energy of the sun while being environmentally friendly. Surrounding yourself in warm, soothing light will set the scene for the entire evening.

Written by: Marcia Pasram

For more information on decorating ideas and tips, please visit:
http://www.homegardendecor.com/

Tuscan Home Decorating - The Materials and Textures

In my last two articles, I talked about the beauty, popularity and versatility of Tuscan home decorating and outlined the basic elements and use of colors in achieving this look. Now we're going to explore the use of materials and textures to create a Tuscan home of your own.

The warm, rustic look and feel that is reminiscent of the Tuscan region of Italy can be achieved by utilizing an eclectic and diverse of mix materials and textures. Since Tuscan decor is inspired by the natural surroundings of the region, keep this in mind as you select furniture, fabrics, accessories and even wall textures.

Following are some ideas and suggestions for utilizing a variety of organic materials to create a Tuscan-inspired home decor scheme of your own:

Iron Iron is used liberally in Tuscan decor. Wrought iron, copper and other metals are used in unique wall decor, candle holders, pot racks, canisters, baskets, urns, vases and furniture. Metal nail heads on furniture, both upholstered and wood, add Old World detail and richness.

Wood, being one of nature's most abundant resources, is a natural choice for Tuscan decorating. Tuscan wood furniture can be rough hewn and heavily distressed or more traditional and polished and can be used together throughout your home.

Think of a rustic farmhouse table for the kitchen or dining room. Or chairs and sofas with exposed wood arms and legs. Armoires, sideboards, hutches, bookcases and media centers made of warm and rich dark woods are both functional and beautiful. Iron is a perfect complement and accent to wood furniture.

Stone - in all of nature's colors - is a beautiful and durable material to use in tiles for counter tops, flooring and accessories. Tumbled, matte or polished travertine, marble and granite are popular choices.

A good, local faux painter can even create areas that appear to be made of stone. This technique works well in entryways, leading up a staircase, in wine cellars and kitchens.

Ceramic accessories add functionality, color and interest in any room or garden. Vases, pitchers, urns, tubs, planters, bowls, platters and dinnerware are common uses of ceramics in Tuscan decorating.

Finishes are both smooth and polished or rough and rustic. The glazes and paints used to finish Tuscan ceramics embrace the entire spectrum of the Tuscan color palette and are often irregular - which only adds to the uniqueness and beauty of an individual piece.

Fabrics Rich fabrics will soften the liberal use of hard surfaces and materials found in Tuscan decorating. Furniture upholstery, throw pillows and blankets, draperies, table cloths and runners, even tapestries in the rich or muted colors found in the Tuscan color palette create warmth and comfort.

Leather is also a versatile textile to use in Tuscan furniture and wall decor and works extremely well with wood, metal and other fabrics.

Foliage Don't forget to incorporate foliage in your Tuscan decor. Foliage can be live or silk plants, trees and flowers. Create groupings of foliage, ceramic and metal accessories for a natural, warm and inviting look.

There are no hard and fast rules or boundaries in Tuscan decorating. It can be inspired by a country farmhouse or a grand villa; both within the same space. Most important in Tuscan home decorating - don't be intimidated by it. Tuscan decorating is about the colors, textures and accessories in your home being harmonious and not "matchy-matchy."

Whether you're decorating an entire home in Tuscan style or are just looking for a few ideas or decor accessories to enhance what you already have, you can't go wrong with the Tuscan style. Tuscan home decor is casually elegant and perfect for everyday life in any home.

Kathy Deneen is an avid and experienced decorator specializing in Tuscan, Mediterranean and Old World styles. Her on-line store, TuscanSunInteriors.com, offers an expansive selection of quality decor accessories, low every day pricing, no sales tax, low flat rate shipping and outstanding, personalized customer service. Please visit Tuscan Sun Interiors at http://tuscansuninteriors.com today.

Using Home Decorating Catalogs For Interior Decorating

When you have just moved into a new home, or wish to re-decorate your current home, choosing what style to decorate particular rooms with can be tough. There are so many different styles of furniture and themes for different people's homes, it is quite obvious why it can be tough trying to decide on only one. Whether you are buying your first home, or re-decorating your home due to the old decorations being out-of-date, there is one thing that will always help you. That thing, is a catalog! A home decorating catalog, there are many catalogs out there and all provide plenty of information for people who are looking for new ways to decorate their homes.

Catalogs can be in magazine form, those in which you can buy at grocery stores or subscribe to get monthly issues with brand new material within each month. Even though those magazine catalogs can be useful, the most significant thing that you must do to find the perfect decorating layout for you is to browse through the internet. There are plenty of sites that list furniture sets and other home decorating items for sale, many times you will see special offers when you decide to search through these online home decorating catalogs.

Your goal is to find the perfect set of furniture and other items that will match your home, therefore the internet is the perfect place to search considering the fact that you will find countless results. There are too many websites to list, however, there is one that could be especially useful and that is http://www.HGTV.com. You may recognize that name as a television channel, whether you watch it or not, the truth is that it is the best place to figure out how you want to decorate your home.

When considering where to select your furnishings or design ideas form, take care in considering the source of the information. For designers, look for signs that that have successfully designed out an interior or other space in the theme you are looking for. As with all 'directories', take the information initially with a grain of salt because remember, the catalog, like all other sources, are presenting you the information because of advertising dollars. This means the designers and offerings may not always be the best quality.

With all of that said, go find some home decorating catalogs and find your perfect home decorating materials as quick as possible!

For your consideration in accenting, may I recommend you look into using the simple design of Glass Votive Candle Holders, and for the penny pincher, read Iron Pillar Candle Holders.