Spring is such an uplifting and happy time of year. I think it has something to do with the rebirth of plants, flowers and sunshine.
1. Pink apple blossoms and cherry blossoms are so beautiful. They are so abundant on the trees that they create a sense of a fairyland. Source unknown
2. Pastel blues are soft and inviting and work well in bright sunny rooms. Via
3. Soft aqua is another cool shade that reminds me of spring. It is gentle and combines nicely with beiges, soft golds, pale yellows and pinks. Source unknown
4. If you have a darker room or a north facing room, yellows are an excellent choice to brighten the room. Via
5. It's amazing how a pop of coral can bring a room to life. It's more of a summer color but works nicely with the quieter colors of spring, as you can see here. Source unknown
4. Greens are a symbol of life and are a wonderful introduction in these chairs of translucent Lucite. They really draw your eye to the lush plantings outside. Source unknown
5. Pale pink is also lovely as a spring color and it is usually associated with little girls but it's a flattering color in any bedroom. Via
6. Here is a perfect example of using all the spring colors in a room. How easy would it be to make some artwork like that to shout Spring is in the air. The accent pieces could be easily changed throughout the seasons. Via
Think about freshening up your rooms with a splash of springtime!
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Lila Levinson, CKD, CID, NKBA, NCIDQ, IDG
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When you hear the term "hand made rug" what do you think of? There are many different kinds of hand made rugs and before buying, it's a good idea to know the differences and why prices vary so much.
1. Hand knotted rugs are truly "hand made rugs" and have individually hand tied knots on the vertical structure of the rug. They are completely hand tied with no mechanical help and can take months to make. They vary in price depending on the size, number of knots per inch and complexity of the pattern. These are typically "oriental" rugs. Via
2. Hand tufted rugs are made with a tufting tool that is inserted into a backing like canvas but they are not knotted. The backing is sprayed with adhesive to hold the yarn in place. Flat woven rugs are also made with a weaving tool. Neither are considered true "hand made" rugs. Via
3. Knot count is very important in determining the quality and price of a hand knotted rug.They range from 50 to 100 knots per inch and the price goes up accordingly. The complexity of the overall design and the types and thicknesses of the yarn used (wool, silk, synthetic) also will play a part in determining the price. Via
4. Country of origin makes a difference also in pricing and quality. Persian (Iran), Chinese, Indian, Nepal and Tibetan are all types of hand made rugs. Tribal patterns for the different regions are a way to identify the pattern but not necessarily the place where it was made. There are many copy cats of the original designs today being made in less expensive regions. Via
5. Fibers used will be of concern when buying a rug so be sure to request information on the content. Many are made from wool and silk but today less expensive fibers are also being used like bamboo and rayon for a silky look at a lower price point. Wool is the most durable and easily cleaned fiber for hand made rugs. The natural lanolins from the sheep help to resist soil and the springy fibers have a natural buoyancy. Via
6. Shearing is the process of hand trimming the entire rug so that the threads are all even or if the design calls for some variations in depth it is sheared to one level and then the lower areas are hand trimmed again. Via
7. Ordering a custom rug is a good way to get exactly the colors and pattern you want but it is a time consuming process since the rug isn't made until the order is placed. You can order a strike off, which is a sample corner piece about 12x12 or 24 x 24. You select your colors from small yarn samples, called poms (shown above). It will give you a good example of the coloring and pattern you have selected and needs to be approved before the order proceeds. There is usually a minimal fee for making the strike off. Via
8. and 9. Caring for your rug is not difficult - just keep it well vacuumed and blot up spills immediately. If it get dirty take it to a professional rug cleaning service and if it needs repair there are people who specialize in the intricacy of re knotting with exact color matched yarn. It is a very specialized art but well worth it if the rug gets damaged. 8. source Unknown 9. Via
10. True hand made rugs are a treasure you will enjoy for many years and pass on to your descendants. The finer the knotting, the smoother and tighter the finish and the harder wearing the rug will be. Extraordinary rugs have been worn and used by many generations over the years. Source unknown
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Lila Levinson, CKD, CID, NKBA, NCIDQ, IDG
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Sometimes I forget that my clients don't know how to do all the things I do. Recently I had a client with an out of town project who needed window coverings. She thought she could measure for me, but I failed to give her proper instructions so there were still a lot of unanswered questions when she got back to me. Next time I will be better prepared. 
1. Beautiful window treatments don't happen by accident - they take careful thought and calculations.
2. This diagram illustrates all the measurements that must be taken into account when calculating for window treatments.
3. When measuring for Roman Shades or roller shades you will need to know if they are going inside the window framing or outside. How deep is the inside mounting space? That may make the decision for you if it's too shallow. If inside mounted, the window should be measured in three places across and top to bottom to allow for the window being out of plumb.
4. If your window treatments are outside mounted shades you will still need to know your clearances on the sides and above the window casing. We do not generally mount onto the window casings so you will measure from outside the casing to outside the other casing.
5. If measuring for yourself take all possible measurements and also take close up pictures of the areas where there may be questions, like multi layer trims, etc. It is always a good idea to contact a professional regarding window coverings since windows are one of the most complex items to measure and construct correctly.
Keep this handy reference sheet for future use.
Lila Levinson, CKD, CID, NKBA, NCIDQ, IDG
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Yes - wallpaper is making a comeback! If you live in a rental but want to make it your own or just like to change up the looks of your rooms - here is a great product to try. Temporary Wallpaper - easy to install and easy to remove!
1. Removable paper by tempaper was used in this bathroom designed by Jillian Pritchard Cooke and Katie Kitchens.
2. There are some great geometric patterns that add drama and high energy to a room...
3. ... and some softer more subtle patterns like this houndstooth check. This one would be great in a baby's room as shown or in a French Provincial room.
4. If your rooms are more traditional and formal - damask always works.
5. And striped wallpaper works for any style rooms. This is a very practical pattern because it could be used in any room of the house and look great!
6. This Marrakesh design adds pattern to an ordinary room so the fabrics can all be solids and the room won't be boring.
7. And last but not least, if you have a budding artist in the family (or if you are the creative one) Tempaper makes a paper that you can decorate yourself. Wouldn't that be fun for the kids' rooms - they could each decorate their own room themselves!
8. If you don't want to wallpaper a whole wall - how about just the back of a bookcase? Via
Here is a video from Tempaper that demonstrates how easy it is to install and remove.
Step out of the box and try wallpaper today - if you get tired of it, it's easily removed and replaced with something else.
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Lila Levinson, CKD, CID, NKBA, NCIDQ, IDG
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Selecting paint colors seems to raise the anxiety level of most homeowners but it shouldn't. Painting is one of the cheapest things you can do to rejuvenate your home and if your make a mistake you can always repaint. It's much more affordable than replacing tile, etc.
If you need help, call an Interior Designer to help you. They can narrow down the choices very quickly and select just the right colors with you. You will only have to pay for a consultation that may save you lots of time and money on all those little sample cans.
The architecture of your home will probably play a part in your decision process. You can either go with historical colors that are appropriate for the architecture or go completely the opposite direction and make the rooms pop.
Lighter colors are more airy and reflect more light so if your rooms are dark you might want to go that direction.
On the other hand if you want drama, go for dark shades. They will make the moldings and window and door trim pop off the walls.
Another way to create drama is to use strong bold colors. It may seem a little scary at first but the results are usually quite stunning. If you use strong colors you will probably want to go with neutral furniture and add a few accessories in your color palette to bring the dominant color around the room. Be sure to not overdo the amount of accents, though, only about 10%.
Don't forget neutrals are colors too. They create a certain quietness and calm but when mixed in different strengths are quite stunning.
Naturally, you will want to use colors you like and gravitate to in clothing and cars. They are your comfort colors and your home should be a true reflection of you. Be sure to balance the colors with some neutrals so you will see the color you are featuring. If everything in the room is the same color, it is monotonous and loses it's impact.
Get inspired by looking a pictures of rooms you love online and in magazines. So have fun and don't be afraid to step a little out of your comfort zone!
Once you chosen a few colors, paint them on large pieces of foam core (will stay rigid and stand up on it's own) or poster board and move them around into dark corners and light areas. Look at them with both natural and artificial lighting. See how they look at all times of the day and night to be sure you are happy with you selection. This is much more effective than painting samples all over the walls.
HAPPY PAINTING!!
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Call me if I can be of any help
408-369-9801 or email me
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Lila Levinson, ASID, CKD, CID, NCIDQ, IDG
I know that this time of year you are not thinking of covering your windows but framing the view with beautiful drapes will really complete a room - no matter what style. Most of the window is still exposed but the eye is drawn to the window with side panels.
1. Even sheer panels can frame a view softly and add warmth to a room. The silver fabric at the hem is a fun touch. Via
2. If you want to make a bold statement, these highly contrasting geometric panels can do the trick. It all depends on your style and if you are trying to frame a view or create a focal point in the room. Photo source unknown
3. Even bay and bow windows can benefit from some soft drapery treatments. The addition of a padded and studded cornice in this bay really sets off the whole window. Photo source unknown
4. Arched windows? No problem - this simple window treatment follows the lines of the arch and enhances the architecture. Photo source unknown
5. If your home has an Asian theme - try using bamboo poles for the rod and handing some panels with frog closure details like this - It is very effective! Photo source unknown
5. Simple decorative panels on the draperies can add a little subtle interest and not take away from the view out the window. Photo source unknown
6. Another way to add a little interest to the drapery treatment is to use a large band of contrasting color at the top, bottom or both. Photo source unknown
7. Decorative tie backs and drapery hardware are ways to up the decorative details of a drapery treatment and are appropriate for rooms with more traditional or classic furnishing. Photo source unknown
8. Last but not least be sure to hang your drapery panels at the proper height. If you need help in the design of your window treatment, contact a professional Interior Designer. They have the expertise to design the exact right treatment for your windows and solve the many problems that come up with window covering installations. Photo source unknown
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Lila Levinson, CKD, CID, NKBA, NCIDQ, IDG
My guest blogger today is Maria Jefferies with some tips on dining room design.
3 Tips to a Streamlined Dining Room Design
For many people, the need for a neat, clean and well-organized dining room is huge. If you frequently invite friends over for dinner, it is important to keep your dining room in its best condition. Here are some streamlined dining room design tips to help you create a more beautiful dining room for your family.
1. Know Your Style
Everyone has a different taste when it comes to art. If you want to impress your guests with your dining room style, make sure it is a unique style that represents your artistic taste. Some people prefer traditional designs, while others are more inclined towards simplistic or contemporary ones.
2. Proper Arrangement
You first need to be aware of the space of your home. Whether your home has an open, curved, closed, or straight space will affect the way you arrange your furniture and appliances. For the dining room, you need to arrange the table, chairs, lamps, cupboard and other furniture in a way that they complement one another.
3. The Use of Color
The color of the walls, the furniture and also the lighting could have an impact on the overall impression of your dining room. Even after you have sketched out your dining room design, you still need to pick the right color if you want your dining room to stand out. You need to make sure the color of the furniture pieces match with one another, also it needs to be in harmony with the theme of the room. For lighting, you should use subtle light sources that will not only highlight the furniture inside the room, but also create an atmosphere at the same time.
Maria's links are below for vinyl and oilcloth tablecloths in case you are looking for a practical covering for your table.
Oilcloth World has a large choice of wipeable table covers. Hard wearing, easy to clean and great for indoor and outdoor use. Great for protecting your table and available in polka dots, gingham checks, funky flowers, Christmas designs and much much more. Vinyl Tablecloths are easy to use.
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Lila Levinson, CKD, CID, NCIDQ, IDG
Spring is a happy time of year and all the little things that signal it are popping up all around us. Today I just want to share some of them with you to make you happy!
1. Rain boots might be still needed but these are an adorable decoration for spring. Via
2. WOW - that sure tells the story of winter fading away to spring. All the colorful bulbs of spring are quite easy to grow and a welcome sight once the cold weather starts to fade. source unknown
3. The blooming of fruit trees like these apple blossoms is a beautiful signal to spring. A few branches stuck in a vase make a huge statement with basically no work. Via
4. Of course tulips fit the bill too. Very elegant when arranged in a tall vase. Via
5. Daffodils are also cheery reminders of spring and an inexpensive grouping makes a really beautiful statement in the house or in a large planting outdoors. They are quite easy to grow and don't require replanting each year like tulips do. Via
6. Spring is also a time for the rebirth of animals and this lamb is so adorable, who wouldn't love it. Can't you just see it romping in the fields with little yellow chicks chasing all around? Source: Facebook-Dream Catchers
7. So nurture your plants and yourself and watch the great results before you know it. Via
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Lila Levinson, CKD, CID, NKBA, NCIDQ, IDG
March Madness has been in full swing at my house. My husband is thrilled because Syracuse is in the final four and he's planning to see them go all the way! As you might guess, that's his Alma Mater. That means he will be out of town and I will have a chance to do some Spring Cleaning projects around the house.
Go Syracuse!!
Meanwhile back at the house, here are some handy hints for household cleaning:
1. Start with something easy for an annoying situation - metal marks on your dishes or porcelain sink. Use powdered Bar Keeper's Friend and they clean up instantly! I love this stuff - it's also good for cleaning lots of metal products and works great. I have never tired the liquid version but have been very happy with the powdered kind. It's in a gold can in the grocery store by the scouring powder. Via
2. Here's a great trick for getting those towels fluffy and soft again. First wash the towels with 1 Cup white vinegar on the hot cycle. (NO SOAP) That takes out all the old soap scum left from previous washings. Then wash them again with 1/2 Cup Baking Soda (NO SOAP) on the hot cycle. Next put in dryer to finish and they will come out fluffier and softer and smell good too. Via
3. Need to clean your microfiber furniture but don't know how? Here is a solution I found on line. DO NOT CLEAN WITH WATER - it will leave a spot when it dries. Instead, vacuum thoroughly and then spray rubbing alcohol over the fabric to be cleaned. Test in a hidden spot first if you are concerned about color fastness. Rub the sprayed area vigorously with a clean color free sponge (so the color will not transfer to the fabric). Let it dry completely; it may appear stiff. Next rub with a clean soft (no color again) brush in a circular motion to rough up the surface and make the fabric soft again. Via
4. Have pet stains you haven't been able to get rid of? Here is a solution to try. This is another solution I found on line but it makes sense so I hope it works for you. Pour on enough white vinegar to soak the stain and then add a small amount of baking soda. Do not do it the reverse order or the soda will activate too much and create a bubbly mess. Let it air dry for one to two days and then sweep and vacuum up the residue. The baking soda absorbs the stain. Via
5. Have a gunked up showerhead? Here's an easy way to clean it. Put 1/3 cup baking powder into a heavy duty plastic bag and SLOWLY add 1 Cup white vinegar; it will create an explosive action when they combine so be careful. Immerse the showerhead into the solution and secure tightly with a twistee. Let it soak overnight or for 3-4 hours. When done, remove bag and solution and rise before using showerhead. Now you will have a nice full spray again. Via
6. If you haven't discovered Magic Eraser yet - hurry to the store right now!! This wonderful product cleans lots of different items with very little effort and really does seem like magic. It will clean scuff marks on the floor, magically make tennis shoes look like new, clean grout, works great on all sorts of plastic items, set in tea and coffee stain, cars, boats and wheels. Try it -you'll like it! They come two to a box and are available in grocery stores and drug stores. All you have to do it slightly wet the pad and then rub it on the item you want to clean. Over time it starts to fall apart like an eraser but it does a terrific job on many items around the house and then you just use the other one in the package. Via
I guess you noticed that white vinegar and baking soda are your friends so be sure to keep them on hand at all times.
Go Syracuse!!
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Lila Levinson, CKD, CID, NKBA, NCIDQ, IDG
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It's time to decorate those Easter eggs again - but not just the same old way. Here are some unique and beautiful eggs to make this year.
1. These gorgeous eggs are tie dyed Easter eggs but not the type of tie dye you are thinking of - they are made using old silk ties! Directions given at this source Via
2. If you like a simple and sophisticated color pallet try making them different shades of taupe and cream with simple bold designs like these. Source unknown
3. Here is another creative way to have beautiful Easter eggs. Cover the eggs with thin paper napkins and then spray with a clear coat. The other ones are covered with moss for texture. You should probably do the moss on foam or plastic eggs. Via
4. How fun are these little jewels? Ribbons and stick on jewels are a nice surprise and easy to do. You could use items found in a scrap booking store and create all kinds of designs. Source unknown
5. A little gold and silver leafing never hurt an Easter egg either. If you put the size on irregularly with a course brush you will get a little bit of metallic accents, like here. Source unknown
6. If you don't want to go to the trouble of gold leafing, just get out the metallic pens after you have colored your eggs and apply lots of small dots to simulate a robins eggs. Via
7. These free hand designs are made with a sharpie on hollow eggs and then clear coated for some gloss and to protect the design. If there is a patient artist in the family, these are spectacular! Via
8. Here are some more two tone Easter eggs and fun designs made with fine and medium point magic markers Via
9. Martha Stewart shares directions here for making these gorgeous marbled Easter eggs. Via
10. Make these beautiful glittery eggs by using paper hole reinforcing rings as guides and adding colored glitter paint inside the masked off area. Remove the rings and Viola - you have polka dot glitter eggs! Source unknown
Happy Easter!
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Lila Levinson, CKD, CID, NKBA, NCIDQ, IDG