Great Crate

Crates Rocks. Personally, I believe one can never have too many storage options. Crates are perfect for blankets, books, towels, shoes, basketballs... the list goes on. I have never met a crate I didn't like! Here are some groovy crates I have spotted online with some inspiring new ideas for uses.



I am not a fan of painting crates, but WOW!
This crate painted chippy red is awesome.
It adds a great accent to a muted palette room.



This would look great next to a bed or on a nightstand.



My husband just bought me this giant crate.
 I am in love! (He rocks too!)
Search for advertising is as cool as the crate.



How adorable would this be on in a powder room?
I love the fresh flowers!
Also, add an apothecary jar of cotton balls or guest soaps.

Speaking of powder rooms...
If you don't have enough storage, why not store towels in crates.
I may utilize this idea in my gray themed bathroom.



Anyone else now on a search for a crate that will hold a wine bottle?
I am! (Anyone else thirsty?)



Storage is always needed in a child's bedroom.
This is simply fantastic how the insides of the crates are brightly painted.
It seems they left the outside natural - perfection!

Wouldn't this be a sweet wedding shower gift?
 I love gifts wrapped in baskets or industrial crates.
Its a gift that keeps on giving!

Where to start? No one person should hoard this many soda crates.
I request, please share your crate collection with the rest of the world!
I love the addition of giant letters in any situation!



Casters added to the bottom of this crate shelf is sheer genius.
This is ideal for small spaces and situations where the shelf would need to be moved.
Consider making a rolling mini bar our of old crates.



Feel as if you live inside a Crate and Barrel store!
This would be a cool display inside a front door, especially if you don't have a coat closet.
Add some hooks on the wall, and the crates could be used for shoes, hats and mail.
Be sure to add a few decorative pieces for it doesn't look like a junk pile.
 

My books made me add this photo. They are requesting that they would like to live in crates.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with this photo. (I love books!)
I feel the books actually come to life against the natural backdrop of crates.

So, do you agree? Crates are great! Kismet Junk will have an abundance of crates for sale this Saturday at the 3 French Hens Market. Stop by an pick up one great crate or two! How are you going to utilize your crates?

Favorite things

Aren't you thrilled when you find inspirational blog, groovy store or fabulous site to follow? I am! I think that is why Pintrest became so popular, so quickly. We love to gaze, adore and be motivated. So, be prepared... here are a few of my favorites:

[My Favorite Stores]

Three Potato Four

Philadelphia, PA

This is my favorite online store to browse. Everything is amazing! I wish I lived closer to view all the amazing items up close. I am inspired every time I visit this web site. I subscribe to their mailing list and its like a visual treat in my inbox whenever an email arrives from Three Potato Four. Enjoy!

 

Rudy's Roundup

Wicker Park, IL

I love the eclectic, vintage vibe of this store. If you are looking for inappropiate greeting cards, wacky junk, vintage dresses, uniquebooks and treasures from yesterday - well,Rudy's is the place. I make it a point to visit this fun little shop everytime I go to Chicago. You should too!

 

Lucky Little Dot
Los Angeles, CA

One of my favorite Etsy sites. Lucky Little Dot never fails to make me drool. They have the most unique, vintage treasures. If you are looking for a rare, one-of-a-kind gift  check out this site. Its fun to even peruse and view the treasures from yesterday.
 

[My Favorite Blogs]

 

Kara Paslay

Tulsa, OK

This blog offers a sorts of fun. Kara has a knack for decorating! She has worked for Anthropologie, is remodeling & decorating her home and is a design consultant. She posts beautiful photos, easy to follow tips, and  makes you want to redecorate ever room in your house! This is one of my favorites!

 

[My Favorites Facebook]

 

 

Novogratz

New York, NY

This is my favorite facebook page! This is the page that inspires what I do on the Kismet Junk facebook page! They continually post design idea's, quotes and more. I love everything they do. Their style and tips are amazing.  If you know anything about me, you know I am one of their biggest fans.

 

 

 

Junk Gypsy

Round Top, Texas

This company is truy inspiring! Its Kismet Junks, country sister. They post tons of photos and always seem to be having a blast, doing what they do! Check out this facebook page. You won't be sorry!

 

 

RedBird Vintage Home
Morris, Illinois
 

I may be a bit biased because this is one of my favorites! Kay is my friend and has a unique voice that comes through in her writing. I love her style, inspiration, spunk and sass and feel like she and Ralph Lauren must be related somehow. In fact, he probably stalks her facebook page for new idea's. This is definitely a page to 'like'.

Details Boutique

Littleton, CO

I found this store while living in Colorado, and I love it! They are constantly posting new merchandise photos to their facebook page. If you are ever in Denver, check it out! Otherwise, drool from afar, like the rest of us!

 

These are a few of my favorite things... share your favorites!

Velma's Jewelry

When I was little, I remember going to visit my Grandmother, Velma. She was a petite red head, only 4feet, 8inches tall, and she baked the best homemade cinnamon rolls I have ever had, still to this day. Everyone said Velma was soft spoken and and kind. The thing I remember most about my grandma was how she looked. Whether on her way to square dancing or simply working around her garden, she would apply bright red lipstick and adorn herself with bright, colorful beaded jewelry.

 

When I would visit, grandma would set aside a bowl full of necklaces, clip on earrings and empty make-up jars on a dressing table for me to play with. I remember putting all those treasures in her old black purse and walking into the living room, wearing her high heels. I would pretend to be the Avon lady and ask each adult if they wanted to buy anything from inside my bag.

I associate my love jewelry, and make-up, and let's face it... playing dress up, to Velma. About 12 years ago, my grandmother passed away. After the funeral, the family was sitting around my grandma's house, telling stories and sharing memories. When I shared this story, my aunt left the room and returned with a bag full of grandma's costume jewelry. I treasure these necklaces, earrings and broaches to this day. Looking at the plastic jewelry instantly makes me feel 5 years again, and reminds of my Grandma.

 

Years later, I still have all that old jewelry. Even though none of it is real, I think its beautiful, sparkly and needs to be a part of my every day life. I think if I applied bright red lipstick and wore grandma's necklaces, my husband would think I had finally lost it! So instead, I have decided to think of ways to incorporate Grandma's jewelry into my decorating.

 

Earrings and Broaches

 

I framed one of my favorite broaches and display it as if it were a piece of artwork. Using an old frame, I took out the glass, covered the cardboard backing in an old encyclopedia page and then stuck Grandma's pin into the cardboard. I applied a touch of glue to keep it in place. This would be beautiful to hang within a mix of family photos and mementos. Something similar could be done with a pair of clip on earrings too.  A family photo or newspaper clipping would also make a nice background image.

 

 

 

Necklaces and Rings
 

I gathered up all my grandmothers remaining jewelry: rings, necklaces, pins and earrings. and placed them all in an apothecary jar. This is be a heartfelt touch for a powder room or a make-up table, and it could even serve as a cute way to decorate your walk-in closet. I have a friend who put her grandmother's engagement ring and wedding ring in a terrarium. Any idea is a good one. Family jewelry can serve as a daily reminder of where you come from and who you want to be!

It doesn't do any good to store old jewelry in boxes or a drawer. Display it. I always say use the good dishes. Don't save the good China, serve ice cream on the it! This is similar! Show off grandma's jewelry! Vintage is in. You may even find a few pieces you would actually wear!

Mixing Styles

Decorating is all about style | Most people have an distinct opinion when it comes to decorating. There are certain styles they like and don't like. However, decorating is about allowing your individual sense of style to shine. What you choose to surround yourself with should be a direct reflection of who you are. This is the very reason decorating is so much fun. There are no wrong answers.

Like many people, I think the French Country style of decorating is romantic and whimsical. Its very popular right now. However, I live with my husband, our four active children, a dog and a turtle. Needless to say, a style based on the use of whites doesn't mesh with our family of muddy shoes, pets and soccer balls. Also, I love anything industrial and  have a soft spot for 1970's vintage artifacts. My solution, find elements in the each style that inspire me, yet are practical for my family, and work it together to create one cohesive statement.

 

The way you chose to decorate your home should be a reflection of the way you live, not just what it the hottest trend.  On our front porch we have an set of gold gray metal gym lockers. They serve as an interesting focal point, yet are very functional, serving as a catch-all for balls, shoes and book bags. Next to the lockers sits a wicker chair. Believe it or not, the soft wicker warms up the cold tone of the lockers.  Its a combination of industrial meets cottage chic, and I adore both pieces. Design doesn't have to fall into one specific style. Mixing and matching styles, textures and colors adds depth and transforms a room into an interesting reflection of the people who live within its walls.

 

These photos illustrate how to incorporate different styles, making a wonderful statement. So, whats your style??

 

 

 

Banquette

Recently, an article was published on the E News web site. Drew Barrymore was quoted, saying, " If you have an  eat-in kitchen, I love a banquette! No matter how inviting I try to make every other room of the house, everyone gravitates to the kitchen banquette."

 

This set me on a course of googling images of banquette kitchens. I am now in love with this idea, and agree with Drew! If you don't think your kitchen is large enough to be an eat-in kitchen, consider a banquette.

This  charming built-in bench not only adds seating, but adds storage and creates an inviting atmosphere. Chose chairs that fit snugly underneath the table to maximize space. This type of seating invites guests to gather and comfortably lounge around the kitchen. The idea of mixing accent pillows is a terrific way to tie in additional colors.

 

There are many different styles and options, and storage definitely has to be considered when designing a banquette. These photos are a few of my favorites. I can tell you, my next house will feature a kitchen banquette! Enjoy!

 

 









 

 



 

 

 

French Market 10.12.13

 

Is Kismet Junk missing from your life?

Well, we miss you!

 

 ----

Visit us @ the 3 French Hens Market

Saturday, October 12, 2013, 8am- 2pm

Along the I&M Canal in Downtown Morris, IL 

Flea Market 9.28.13

 

Oh dear!

 

The Corn Festival Flea Market is almost here!

Shop Kismet Junk Saturday 9/28/13 9am-4pm @ the Grundy County Fairgrounds.

[ more details ]

 

 

Quotes with Meaning

 

 

 

What has meaning to you?

 

Inspirational quotes, like "Home is where your family lives." are becoming increasingly popular. Its nice to receive daily inspiration from a favorite quote, reminding us what is important in life, but it seems everyone believes they are 'being creative' simply by ordering pre-made wall decals or hanging a stenciled wooden sign. It is a cookie cutter style of decorating. The quote you picked out off the web site and worked hard to correctly hang, may very well be the same quote inside your neighbors house too. Is that your goal? The challenge is to inspire, while showing creativity and originality in your decorating.

 

Scrabble Letters were popular for crafts in the 80's. I remember being young girl and wearing a scrabble letter tile of my initial, hot glued on a pin, on my winter coat. I thought I was cool. More recently, it became popular to  line up the Scrabble tiles on the little wooden holders to a spell out a last name. Take the idea a step further.  Spell out the word 'Love' with Scrabble tiles and balance them on top of a photo frame. Re-purpose vintage dice, game pieces  or cards to form any favorite word. 



Does your family have an inside joke? Draw inspiration from your daily life. My family continually asks, "Does anyone know how to post videos to face book?" It makes us laugh and roll our eyes every time we hear it. I printed out the quote and framed it in the hallway by my kids room. Everyone starts the day with a smile.



Do you have a favorite number? Around my house, the number 26 appears everywhere. There is an old magnet domino with two dots on one side and six dots on the other attached to my stove. Two playing cards featuring the number two and six  are framed in the hallway. An old 26 tin number tag is tucked into my framed wedding photo. July 26 is my wedding anniversary. My husband and I have now made 26 our favorite number. We even have old locker numbers with 26 on our key chain's. It a fun hobby searching for our special number and finding creative ways to display it around our house. This can be done with birthdays, anniversaries, even your house number.



I love quotes. They inspire me to be a better person. I spend numerous hours trolling through quotes on Pintrest. Sometimes I download my favorites, storing them away in a file on my computer, then finding that I  rarely revisit these awesome quotes. Recently, I learned that Walgreens will print out Instagram photos. (Yeah!) The cool filters are maintained and the photos are printed in a 4x4 inch vintage inspired size. Finally, I have something useful to do with my quote collection! I have printed out dozens of my favorite quotes in this fun size. I have taped them inside my kitchen cabinets, tucked them inside the edges of my mirror, used them as a bookmark, and even pinned one to the inside of the visor in my car. Now these quotes catch my attention throughout the day and bring me inspiration.  Its amazing how a few words or a phrases can continually change your attitude. I love this idea so much I am now printing quotes out for family and friends.



So, I ask you, what has meaning to you? Show it to the world through your decorating!
 



Show off your photo's



Wall of frames by The Novogratz design team





Show off those photo's!

Making a statement with a wall full of frames is one of my favorite ways to decorate. Its a creative way to display memento's, collections, thank you letters, postcards, photo's and keepsake treasure's. It add an element of visual interest to a room. By producing a Wall of Frames, a room can be completely transformed. 

 

Chose a theme, any theme. A family photo wall, a kids artwork display, or if you are brave, use anything and everything framed. When choosing the 'no theme' route, set a challenge to ensure there really is no cohesive theme. The end effect of the wall will look finished and be organized chaos.



(You've been framed.)

 

Frames are the most important feature to a wall of frames, (hence, the title). Again, decide theme or no theme. By hanging all the pieces in similar colored frames, the wall will appear relaxing and organized. By using eclectic, mismatched frames of all sizes and shapes, the wall will be exciting and visually stimulating. 

 

 

The items displayed in frames do not have to be professionally matted. Precut mattes can be purchased, although inexpensive for a few frames, the costs can quickly add up when producing a wall of frames. Think outside the box. If the photo doesn't fill the entire frame, use another resource as the matte. Old sheet music, book pages, scrapbook paper, maps or artwork. A favorite choice for matting is pages from old encyclopedia's. Its gives a lovely overall visual effect and it is inexpensive.

 

This wall doesn't have to cost a fortune. Shop the sales. Check the clearance aisles every time shop. If the glass is broken, no problem. Some frames without glass will add a nice visual effect and dimension to the wall of frames. If the frame has a scratch, no problem. Mask scratches with a little effort. Sand the entire frame to give it a worn look or paint the frame a new color. The most cost effect way to accumulate frames is to search thrift stores, second hand stores and consignment shops. Unique, inexpensive frames are the best finds!

 

(Make a statement.)

 

When planning your grand statement, be sure to add some eye-popping visual effects. Using mirrors is an easy and great eye-popping element. Mirrors reflect light and open up a space. Another element is hanging items directly on the wall, not framed such as badminton rackets, vintage plate's and old architectural element's. Anything works. Its something unexpected and the eye will natural "pop" to that item first. 

 

Some designers say to carefully plan out a wall of frames, using paper templates and measuring tapes. That sounds like a ton of work, and it is. The answer is its simple and relatively quick to complete. Pick one corner of the wall and work your  way down. No rhyme or reason is the best philosophy. Don't worry, there are no mistakes. If you don't like where a frame is, switch it with another. Occasionally step back and view the progress. No need to go to through the hassle of cutting templates to space out the frames - unless you like making more work for yourself!

Last tip, have at least one visual element that is unexpected. Hang a set of frames touching. Yes, touching! It gives people an uneasy feeling, but adds a great visually exciting feature. If the wall is all black frames with white mattes, incorporate a few white frames with black mattes. Add a visual surprise to complete your overall design.

 

Pick a wall to express yourself. Whether it be a hallway, a powder room or the family room. Add in personal artifacts, design elements and make a grand statement.

 

[ Kismet Junk ]

Pull up a seat

Photo from LuckBoySunday



Love this!

Mixing different types of chairs adds yet another visual element to an otherwise uniform table. You can instantly make a formal table feel cozy and comforting. 

 

(The Rules.)

 

The rules are this... there are no rules. Mix different types of wood, add in a metal chair, or a cushioned chair - whatever you like. New and old. This is an easy way to tie in accent colors or add a pop of color. By making your own rules when it comes to designing your space, you will create something truly unique and your personality will shine through.

(Start Shopping.)

 

Once you start looking for chairs, you'll be surprised where they turn up. First, scour your home, garage and basement. You can easily paint or refinish old chairs. I prefer to try to up-cycle existing chairs instead of buying new ones. Find chairs is by shopping garage sales, estate sales, vintage shops, home decorating stores and even Craigslist. You don't have to pay much, just make sure the chair is sturdy, comfortable and has good bones (or a good design).

 

(Incorporating the Idea.) 

 

The type of design element is usually implemented in an eat-in kitchen, however there are many other places around your home to use mix-matched chairs. Here are a few favorites:

• Dining Room: Utilizing mix-matched chairs in the dining room is an easy change to a formal dining room, creating a warm atmosphere. This could be done in a formal living room also Try adding chairs with similar design elements. Keep within the same color scheme, finish,  or structural elements.

• Family Room: One way to encourage family bonding is to play games together. Set up a game area in a family room by using mix-matched chairs around a round table. Take the idea one step further. Let the children pick out their game chair. Incorporate the boxed games as artwork on  shelving to create a  game. Keep the games in sight  to encourage spontaneous play!

• Hallway/Mudroom: This is a fun idea! In a long hallway or large entry way, line the wall with mix-matched chairs. Add mix-matched frames above the chairs to help support the theme. This wall of chairs will make a dramatic impact on visitors when they walk inside your house. Its original and makes a memorable impression.

 

Most importantly, design should be fun. So, have fun! If one chair doesn't work, simply switch it out. Play with the arrangement until you are happy with it!

 

 

[ Kismet Junk ]

 

 

Little Blue Houses

 

At an auction last weekend, I acquired a KLM Delft House collection. As I was scouring the hay racks deciding what to bid on, I spotted four shoe boxes full of cute little ceramic houses. They reminded me of the adorable row houses I saw during a vacation to Amsterdam. It was instant love. I had never seen anything this charming, but looking at the quantity and detailing, I knew they must be collectible - and hopefully valuable.

 

Before the auction started, I researched prices for the KLM Delft Houses on both etsy and ebay. I was amazed to discover the average asking price for these little gems were $18 each house. Wow! I estimated there were approximately 40 of these house in the four boxes. At that moment, I was determined to win this lot.

 

Patiently I waited for this treasure to come up for auction. About an hour into the auction, my item was up for bid. I jumped in and held my ground against the other competitors. Without backing down, I won my prized items in the end. It was a successful day at the auction.

 

I truly believe you you should display items you love around your house. I kept six of my favorite houses and have listed the remaining collection on Kismet Junk on Etsy for the bargain price of $8 each. I am confident at this price, they won't last long.

 

(A History Lesson.)

 

 

Since the 1950s, KLM Airlines gave every business class passenger with a miniature Dutch house, filled with Genever, Dutch gin distilled by Bols Distilleries. Each KLM Blue Delft Miniature Houses is inspired by an existing home in Deft, Holland and along the canals in Amsterdam. Every year in October a new house is added to the collection. Each house is numbered and currently there are 93 miniatures available to collect.

 

From 1952 these houses are given present to passengers on board of every and all KLM Intercontinental flights in the business class. Each passenger baby or grown up, paying or non paying one house. These original Delft Blue miniature houses are real copies of the gable houses alongside the canals in Amsterdam and from time to time for a change also from other historical towns in Holland.The largest collection of KLM houses is on display in Amstelveen, Holland - if you are ever in the neighborhood.

(Collecting a Collection.)

 

 

Over the years, our miniature houses have become desirable collectors' items, generating a lively trade among passengers. These little houses are sought out, purchased, collected and displayed with pride. There is even a KLM Delft House app available for iPhone and Androids. Personally, I chose to only have 6 houses on a shelf in my house, while other collectors strive to own all 93 houses.

 

Start your own collection of KLM Delft Houses with Kismet Junk on Etsy.

Collecting Collections

Most of people collect something. Whether it be teacups or tractors, whatever the collection, the interesting questiont is why? Is it something that is reminiscent of your childhood? Is it something beautiful? Is it unique or interesting? Is the collection on display or stored in a box?

You would be surprised at how many people collection things, yet don't showcase their collections. Cookbooks and heirloom recipes are often stored in kitchen cabinets. Travel souvenier are tucked away. Or the collection is display in a museum like quality and never fully enojyed, like grandma's china is stored in the hutch and never used.

 

(Story Time.)

 

I love photography and all that it entails, so I collect vintage cameras. My love of photography started the summer I turned twelve. While on a family vacation,  my grandparents took us to a flea market.  My grandfather bought me a unicycle and a used 35mm camera. I never quite picked up the knack for riding the a bike with one wheel, but I loved taking photographs.

 

I have collected many other items over my lifetime; shot glasses, matchbooks, postcards - to name a few, but vintage camera's are the one collection which I feel an emotionally tie. I purged the rest of my collections over the yeas and decided to focus on the one collection with sentimental value. My 21 year old daughter now has the shot glass collection, the house. Its been a nice experience to purge and condense my collections.

 

(Ready to purge?)

 

Do you have a collection that is taking over? Are you ready to purge and declutter? Think about the following questions and take time to honestly answer each one.

• How many collections do you have? Which is you favorite?
• Does it have sentimental value?
• Is your collection on displayed or stored away?
• Does your collection mesh with your decorating style? 

(Quality, not Quantity.)
 

If you have a large collection or multiple collections, its time for an intervention. You will never have the largest collection in the world, so why are you trying? The first step is admitting you my have a problem. The next step is to transform your collection. 

• Focus on one collection, your favorite.
• If you have many collections, purge.
• Donate, pass down to the next generation or sell excess items.
• Display your collection creatively for all to enjoy!
• If any part of your collection is stored, purge.

(Function.)

Allow your collection to become a functional collection. Utilize your collection as decor. Merge it into your decorating by creatively displaying favorite items. Look for ideas on Pinterest and in magazines. A few favorites:

Make a mini library in your kitchen with cookbook collection.
Loan them to neighbors and friends. Frame family recipes to hang in the kitchen.

Hang items from your collection on a wall to make a statement.

(i.e.: postcards, greeting cards, travel brochures, maps, golf score cards, thank you notes)

Use an apothecary jar to show off smaller items.
(i.e.: buttons, jewelry, sewing kits, thimbles, golf balls, coins)

 

(A collection should meaningful and spread happiness.)

Outside the Box

Need storage ideas? Think outside the box, literally. Find a new purpose for old items. Recycling isn't only for paper or plastic. Reuse vintage items for organizing your house. Look at all that junk in your basement or garage with a new attitude.

 

 

Stow picnic items in a vintage suitcase.
Bring the entire suitcase to the picnic.

Vintage picnic baskets make perfect storage for larger items.
 Hide gloves, serving trays, craft supplies and toys.

Add casters to a vintage picnic basket.
An adorable mobile table.

 Metal picnic baskets as hidden storage in a kitchen.
Storage all your baking items out of sight.



 Wooden tool box for organized desk storage.
Use mason jars for paper clips, pens and other small items.

Attractively hide office supplies.


Do you have clever new uses for everyday items?
Share your ideas by posting them here!