'F' for Freebies

Twitter Chat with John Gidding, and a HUGE Giveaway!

You remember the lovely bedroom redesign that I did with the help of Membership Reward Points from American Express, yes? Well now I am working with them again to host a Twitter Chat with HGTV designer John Gidding. John will be giving tons of advice next Thursday on how to decorate and find creative ways to stretch your budget — just like I did using my points.

John and I will be on Twitter for one hour on Thursday, July 29 at 8:30p.m. EST/ 5:30 p.m. PST (search #AmexHome). John will be answering your home design questions about anything from creating amazing guest spaces to choosing the right colors for your home. He’ll also have plenty of inexpensive ways to get your home ready for sale and ideas for upgrading rooms on a tight budget.

Now, you may have noticed the whole HUGE giveaway thing we’ve got going on here…

How do you enter to win?

Comment on this post with your questions for John and we’ll discuss some of them during our Twitter Chat. By leaving a comment, you’ll be entered to win items like a KitchenAid mixer, a Bissell vacuum, or a set of Cuisinart cookware (all of which can be bought with Membership Rewards points). There will be ten winners in this giveaway! Here are the prizes:

  1. Cuisinart® 10-Piece Commercial Cookware Set
  2. Cuisinart GR-4N Griddler
  3. Krups FBC2 6-slice Convection Toaster Oven
  4. All-Clad 6.5 Quart Stainless Slow Cooker with Ceramic Insert
  5. KitchenAid Stand Mixer with Attachment Pack ( Empire Red)
  6. Wusthof Classic 8-Piece Block Set
  7. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Upright Vacuum Cleaner
  8. DeLonghi Esclusivo Magnifica Super Automatic Machine
  9. Viking® Professional Digital Hand Mixer
  10. Le Creuset® 7.25 Quart Round French Oven


(All of these items are available on membershiprewards.com.)

This giveaway is open to US residents only, one entry per person. Ten winners will be randomly chosen on July 30 to win one prize each. International readers are welcome to participate in the Twitter Chat and submit questions, but are not eligible to win. Remember you can ask anything about design and home improvements — this is a fun chance to get advice from an HGTV designer!

I know many of you are following me on Twitter @makingitlovely, but you can also follow John @JohnGidding. If you want to get some ideas for home improvement immediately, go to membershiprewards.com/home. And be sure to follow along to #AmexHome with John and I on Twitter next Thursday.

* Update *
Thanks for joining us for the Twitter chat, everybody! Comments (and therefore entries) are now closed. Congratulations to the ten winners: Aimee (aimeeroo), Mim (mimsfam), LeeAnn (leeannhuber), Sara (naturemurph), Sarah (Sarahquail110), Cara, (cara.andersen), Suzy (sayitaintsuzy), Sarah (Pooglit), Devon (devon.cook), and Kc (kcerveny).

Sources & Paint ColorsNeed design help? Let's work together.

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  • Paola
    July 24, 2010 at 9:32 am

    What’s the best and easiest way to brighten up a living room that doesn’t get a whole lot of natural light?

  • jessica
    July 24, 2010 at 9:54 am

    How exciting – what an amazing giveaway!
    What is your best advice for a couple to blend their interests in home decor when one is a keeper (collector) and the other is a tosser (minimalist)?

  • Matthew
    July 24, 2010 at 10:03 am

    I’m a chef and I have a lot of kitchen gear. How can I store and display my stuff in an efficient way?

  • Michelle
    July 24, 2010 at 10:03 am

    Fun, fun, fun!

    We have a small living room that has large windows on one wall, a fireplace on another and doorways on the remaining two walls. Furniture placement is a nightmare, since it measures only 16 by 16. It’s an old house, and I love it. Should I wall up the fireplace? Buy miniature furniture? I’m stymied.

  • kate
    July 24, 2010 at 10:28 am

    I gave a St. Bernard puppy and a 5 month old and am looking for the perfect rug that could be friendly to both- soft or the baby and odor resistant for the dog. Can I find it or am I crazy?

  • Elle Sees
    July 24, 2010 at 10:43 am

    How would you style the bedroom of your first apt?

  • Jessica
    July 24, 2010 at 10:57 am

    We have a 1959 home that we purchased 4 years ago and have been remodeling slowly. We finally reached the bottom of our budget, but need to tackle the 10’x10′ den room, which is an addition to the home. The problem is that the floor is not level with the rest of the house,(is a step down) and is covered with cheap vinyl tiles (some of them are actually missing) while the rest of the house’s flooring is terrazzo that actually resembles praline ice cream colors. What kind of material do you recommend to redo the den’s flooring that is both budget friendly and compliments the rest of the house?

  • Ashley
    July 24, 2010 at 11:15 am

    Dear John and Nicole,
    I have a problem sticking to one theme for a room. One day I want a rustic room another day I want a modern room. Then I want a beachy feel. How can I make up my mind or incorporate themes without looking tacky?
    Ashley

  • nancy
    July 24, 2010 at 11:15 am

    We moved from a 2 bedroom apartment with an art and music studio into a 1 bedroom (2 room) apartment that still needs to house the art studio. Any suggestions on segmenting the usage of such a small space?

  • JordanK
    July 24, 2010 at 11:18 am

    Our floorplan is very open, with our kitchen/dining room/family room all rolled into one…the problem is it’s very poorly-lit and the space feels dark and drab regardless of what I do to it! How would you recommend brightening up a large room with only one window?

  • Tricia
    July 24, 2010 at 11:40 am

    I just moved into a furnished apartment that I cannot paint or replace any furniture in. How can I personalize the space without spending too much money or doing anything too drastic?

  • Bille
    July 24, 2010 at 11:42 am

    I’m in love with all the sumptuous designer textiles used in decorating, but many of them are only available to the trade. Any ideas on how to get ahold of these fabrics that are to the trade only, and at the to the trade prices? Thanks!

  • Rachelle
    July 24, 2010 at 11:44 am

    Do have any design tips or ideas to add a little pizzaz to my rental kitchen, that has those ugly white 80’s laminate cabinets and forest green counter tops?

  • Sara
    July 24, 2010 at 12:00 pm

    I tend to lack confidence in my ability to use/mix pattern and/or color. Any tips on using both to add interest to my fairly neutral home?

  • Lorrie
    July 24, 2010 at 12:21 pm

    I love my husband but he loves builders beigh walls. I want to have a more interesting space but not sure how to add pizzaz to the boring?

  • Jane
    July 24, 2010 at 1:27 pm

    What are some must-have multi-functional furnishings for a room that’s both kitchen, dining, living and family room?

  • Courtney
    July 24, 2010 at 1:37 pm

    I love technology but I hate all the cords that come with it. How do you make a space look organized while still having a computers, printers, cell phone chargers, and Ipod chargers?

  • Sarah
    July 24, 2010 at 1:42 pm

    After living in my current house for two years, I still haven’t put up anything on our living room wall above the couch. I want something classy; not just a landscape picture. What is an inexpensive, creative way to decorate above a couch?

  • sarah
    July 24, 2010 at 1:56 pm

    My kitchen is the size of a postage stamp (barely 8′-10′) and was refitted for cabinets by some well meaning previous owner, so it’s pretty much the opposite of user friendly. I’m looking for suggestions to really maximize my storage space and the usability of the kitchen without breaking the bank. Here are some pictures, to give you an idea of what I’m talking about:

    http://www.flickr.com/photos/paperfoxling/3171776179/in/set-72157594539483181/
    http://www.flickr.com/photos/paperfoxling/3171774771/in/set-72157594539483181/

    We really want to replace the cabinetry and would love ideas for inexpensive options as well as layout ideas. That island counter thingy is also not attached and can be replaced. (I can’t wait to get rid of it actually! It’s the only usable counter surface, but it’s soooo ugly!)

    I want to have white cupboards, butter yellow walls and aqua glass tiles for a back splash if that helps!

    • Ann
      July 25, 2010 at 6:51 am

      It looks like you have a soffit above the cabinets. Knock that down so that you can install taller cabinets. Do you have space for a 24 inch deep refrigerator? That would make the kitchen look bigger. You might also get an energy rebate. You could move the rounded counter a foot or so closer to the dining room. It could serve as a buffet for holidays. Candice Olsen on Divine Design created a great island/breakfast bar using an antique cabinet with drawers. She added legs on one side that were attached to the top surface. It was in the show about a young girl and a loft. Pare down all the stuff in your cabinets. Store the seasonal and holiday stuff in the garage or under your bed. Cut out half your coffee cups, sippy cups, and water bottles. You will have a new lease on life. Address the structural problems with your kitchen first. You can always add the backsplash and expensive tilework later. Ps Get the microwave off the counter. Put everything else away. Good luck

  • Faith
    July 24, 2010 at 2:12 pm

    I’m a doctoral student so I have research EVERYWHERE. I need some stylish storage solutions for all my tons and tons and tons of papers and books and binders!

  • breeann
    July 24, 2010 at 2:24 pm

    What are some unique, cheap ways to decorate bland rentals (where we aren’t supposed to put many holes in the walls)?

  • Fair
    July 24, 2010 at 3:07 pm

    Any tips on how to inexpensively add some “big boy” flair to my 4 year old’s room as he transitions to a twin size bed?

  • Agnes
    July 24, 2010 at 3:13 pm

    My home is full of laminate cabinets. What can I do with these to make them fresh and pretty without replacing everything?

    Thanks for the opportunity!

  • megan
    July 24, 2010 at 3:39 pm

    How do you pair a red chouch and a baby blue couch with a paint color?

    • Ann
      July 25, 2010 at 6:55 am

      Bring home paint swatches. You can get larger ones at many paint stores. Camel and taupe would look really well with those two couches, and maybe a squirrelly gray. Get those tester little jars of paint and try them out. Good luck!

  • Tara
    July 24, 2010 at 3:54 pm

    purchased my first home, need suggestions on what color to paint the front door. Love red but open to other suggestions…I take direction well, please be specific. ie. brand / name…love making it lovely!

  • suzib
    July 24, 2010 at 4:53 pm

    How do you redo shower tiles without ripping them out and replacing them?

  • Rebecca
    July 24, 2010 at 5:09 pm

    I have a one car garage that also houses my washer and dryer hookups. I haven’t bought a washer and dryer yet and I am not sure how to fit everything I need into that space. I do occasionally park in the garage and need to leave space for my car. Any suggestions for space solutions and ways to keep my laundry area clean while still being in the garage?

  • Eric
    July 24, 2010 at 8:27 pm

    What is the best way to remove an in wall toilet paper holder?

  • Jen
    July 24, 2010 at 8:49 pm

    We have a great mid century chair we want to reupholster, but we have two cats who shed and like to claw anything that’s too texture-y, any ideas for a good material to use?

  • Christi
    July 24, 2010 at 9:13 pm

    What is the best way to “pretty up” a front entrance besides flowers and a wreath?

  • Jamie
    July 24, 2010 at 9:33 pm

    Do you think it’s a bad idea to buy a patterned sofa–are they destined to go out of style one day? Should I stick to a neutral sofa and just style it up with pillows?

  • Rachel
    July 24, 2010 at 9:39 pm

    I’m having trouble choosing a white paint for my interior trim. What are your tips for choosing the right white; one that is not too stark and looks good in every room?

  • Kim-Erin
    July 24, 2010 at 10:21 pm

    How would you make a rented apartment living room look chic and fresh when you can’t paint the darn walls??

  • Lita
    July 24, 2010 at 11:07 pm

    How do you smooth out textured walls? We live in an old victorian house and the walls have ugly textured. We want to fix it without gutting out the whole house.
    Thanks!!

  • Marina
    July 24, 2010 at 11:13 pm

    I have one room (12 x 14) that needs to serve as an office, guest bedroom, and child’s playroom all in one (office + playroom will be used everyday; overnight guests will use the room about once/month). Any decorating and organizing suggestions?

  • Jenn B.
    July 24, 2010 at 11:24 pm

    I have this great desk that I absolutely love in my bedroom, but the scale isn’t so great. The two main things I can fit in my bedroom are this desk and my bed, but not much else. I’m renting and hope to one day have more space. So here’s my question, should I hang onto this piece of furniture for one day or ditch it in favor of making things work now.

  • Christa
    July 24, 2010 at 11:35 pm

    Any tips for making a rental feel more like home?

    (Great contest!)

  • justine tamayo
    July 24, 2010 at 11:36 pm

    I love bright colors. How can I make them look grown up?

  • Juliana Nocker
    July 24, 2010 at 11:49 pm

    Can you tell me some great sources for affordable, unique rugs (excluding IKEA!)?

  • Shelly P.
    July 25, 2010 at 2:05 am

    What is your take on painting the ceiling? Keep it white, or go with a lighter shade of the color of the walls?

  • Melanie
    July 25, 2010 at 2:49 am

    I’m lucky enough to work at home for a blogging company, but I share a 1920s bungalow with roommates, so my small bedroom has to double as an office. I’m getting ready to renovate – how can I make the most of my space, while turning it into a room that I’m happy to spend many hours in every day?

  • MIchelle
    July 25, 2010 at 3:19 am

    Where is a good place to look for low cost, high quality furniture with great design?

  • viva cindy
    July 25, 2010 at 3:42 am

    i have traveled alot and found so many cool pieces. sometimes its hard to work them all in together. How much is too much in the way of ethnic decor?

  • Mary
    July 25, 2010 at 5:47 am

    Our outdoor ikea redwood dinning table and chairs are in need of help. Should we refinish or paint them? I’m looking to extend the least amount of effort for the most fabulous look.

  • Ann
    July 25, 2010 at 6:25 am

    I need to fix up the curb appeal of my house. I can only spend $100. What do I do first? I think you will say: paint the door, get new numbers, and change the light fixture. Am I right? thanks

  • Kimberly Ruth
    July 25, 2010 at 7:29 am

    I just purchased a pair of neutral brown couches and I’m looking for some recommendations for some funky pillows to bring some style to my living room. Any resources you can recommend?

  • nichole
    July 25, 2010 at 7:44 am

    what is the best way to make a nursery and a home office work together in the same room?

  • Kay
    July 25, 2010 at 9:21 am

    My two daughters, ages 10 and 18 share a room, what is a good way to make their bedroom a “happy medium” so they both feel represented (not too juvenile and not so grown up)? Thanks!

  • Courtney
    July 25, 2010 at 9:26 am

    My husband and I want to share an office but we have different tastes – he likes a dark space but I find that difficult to work in, I need a light and airy space. Do you have any suggestions?

  • Libby
    July 25, 2010 at 9:32 am

    For some reason, one of the previous owners of my 1953 rancher covered up the fireplace in the living room. Eventually I’d like to uncover it, but in the meantime there is an ugly 8′ long cement hearth that is level with the hardwood floors. Right now the couch covers it, but I’d like to have the option to pull the couch away from the wall. Any tips on how to conceal it or make it work with the room?

  • Jacqui'
    July 25, 2010 at 9:47 am

    I would love to know what you think about buying a sofa from a catalog or website. Isn’t it a terrible risk not to have the opportunity to sit on it? The reason I’m considering it at all is I can’t find sofas I like in the local furniture shops. Also, would love to know more about sofa construction and what fabrics wear the best.

  • Cecily T
    July 25, 2010 at 9:51 am

    I need help with bedrooms! Before I started reading design blogs, hubby and I were very proud to finally own ‘sets’ of furniture…but now I feel like they are too matchy-matchy! Our bedroom set is beautiful stained cherry (bed, armoire, and dresser). I’d never want to paint or restain it, but I need ways to punch up the mix-and-match look instead of the furniture showroom look. Any advice?

  • Eun
    July 25, 2010 at 9:58 am

    Are there any “ultra-trends” in design right now that are ridiculously overused, to the point that you purposely avoid them?

  • Kim
    July 25, 2010 at 10:43 am

    I’d like some inexpensive and useful ideas for shower storage in freestanding clawfoot tub/showers, as well as some good general ideas for attractive and inexpensive bathroom storage for a small space that’s renter-friendly.

  • staceys
    July 25, 2010 at 12:08 pm

    Tips on how to hang art work in a room. How much is too much on the wall. How to make a balanced vignette.

  • Kate
    July 25, 2010 at 12:09 pm

    What are some “go-to” paint colors? I’m always so afraid when choosing and committing to paint!

  • angie
    July 25, 2010 at 12:09 pm

    I’d love to get some good ideas for displaying kid’s artwork, other than scotch tape, but that’s safe for kiddos. as in, no tacks, frames, nails, etc….

  • Sara Lawrence
    July 25, 2010 at 12:49 pm

    How to organize a closet that is being used by 2 but made for 1?

  • anu
    July 25, 2010 at 1:03 pm

    i am moving into a typical brown shingled house in berkeley. there is a small vestible before the front door, that is now painted a chocolate brown to mimic the brown shingles. i want to repaint it with something a little more fun! i’m going to paint the door a bright yellow and retain the currently gray floor and black window trim. any suggestions? the entry way is a robin’s egg blue, and the house will mostly be grey, blue and green, so i want it to flow well but feel like we have an opportunity to do something dynamic for the first thing people see when they are entering our home.

  • monica
    July 25, 2010 at 2:26 pm

    I need help with my linoleum kitchen floor. how can I make this look better than the shabby covering it is?? I rent, so cannot tear it up.

  • Ashley
    July 25, 2010 at 2:46 pm

    Awesome giveaways!

    I would like to know tips of mixing patterns (such as the best patterns to mix). I know there’s a delicate point between just enough and too many – and I wanted to know how you know once you reach that point.

  • jane b
    July 25, 2010 at 2:55 pm

    we’re about to move into our new home (very excited!) and we noticed that the prior owner tore down a walk in closet in the master bedroom in order to have an office……well, we want the closet back but are fearing it will cost us a pretty penny. that being said, any good suggestions for make shift closets that won’t the college dorm look/feel?! we’d like to try and keep it a bit more “adult”.

  • christa
    July 25, 2010 at 3:41 pm

    Is it best to choose small kitchen appliances (e.g. mixer, blender) in neutral colors, or in bold colors (which may not fit in with future kitchens if one moves?)

  • brigid rose
    July 25, 2010 at 4:29 pm

    i am getting married august 20th and my almost husband and i will be moving into our first shared apartment when we return from our honeymoon. it is a beautiful apartment, but like most NYC apartments, space is a little limited. my question for john: what are some tricks for maximizing space in a small apartment with regards to storage/decorating/furnishing?

    thanks nicole! amazing giveaways!

  • Annelisa
    July 25, 2010 at 4:41 pm

    I am wondering about some good DIY art ideas. We have lots of open wall space we need to fill, but unfortunately can’t afford to buy the stuff we like. I guess we’ll have to make it ourselves!

  • karla
    July 25, 2010 at 5:07 pm

    i live in a small apartment and the closet in the bathroom is not only for the bathroom but for all of my linens. any suggestions?

  • Monica Wilkes
    July 25, 2010 at 5:18 pm

    I would love some inexpensive ideas for organizing a play room.

  • Petra
    July 25, 2010 at 5:43 pm

    When you’re redecorating a living room what is the first thing you change? Paint, curtains, furniture, decorate around one favorite object? It’s a total re-do, but we don’t know where to begin.

  • Tawna
    July 25, 2010 at 6:10 pm

    How do you find your design inspiration.
    What design element is a must for you?
    What can you do without?

  • Kate
    July 25, 2010 at 7:20 pm

    Do you have any tips on making the most of storage in small spaces? My husband and I can never get anything to stay organized in our apartment.

  • @sweetbabboo
    July 25, 2010 at 7:41 pm

    Help! Currently we have a hand-me-down red (a lovely cherry red) couches. We can’t afford new, but can afford paint. What color do you suggest painting the walls of a room with two full size red couches? I’m not afraid of color but also know that red couches tend to dominate a room.

    Thanks,
    Abby

  • Sarah
    July 25, 2010 at 8:46 pm

    What’s the best way to combine vintage and modern design style? For example I love old vintage-y kitchen stuff like old cooking tools, and gadgets but I love the simplicty of empty kitchen counters and clean lines. Any tips?

  • tricia
    July 25, 2010 at 8:54 pm

    I was wondering what color trends do you see for the home in the next year or two?

  • AshleyMac
    July 25, 2010 at 9:28 pm

    I’m wondering about making improvements in your home. Specifically laminate vs. engineered hardwood. What are your thoughts? 1/2 our downstairs-family room, kitchen, hallways, entry way and powder room are currently a really crappy cheapy ugly laminate. We are upgrading and trying to decide to another laminate but nicer and looks like wood vs. putting in engineered hardwood. Thanks!

  • kate
    July 25, 2010 at 9:51 pm

    I would love to know your thoughts on a white sofa? Would you pair with printed accent pieces and chairs?

  • Kathleen
    July 25, 2010 at 10:03 pm

    I have a lovely but small kitchen and no dining room. My living room is also small. What creative ideas do you have for a place to eat? I’m tired of tv-trays!

  • kristi
    July 25, 2010 at 11:39 pm

    I’m looking for an easy way to spice up our bedroom! It’s so boring.

  • Bailey S.
    July 26, 2010 at 12:02 am

    We’re newly out of college, living in an apartment, getting married in a year, and earning six figures combined. However, we’re also trying to pay off student loans and save up money for a house.

    Right now we have some craptacular furniture we brought in from college, and were saving up for replacements.
    We could obviously run out today and buy some $200 couch, but we both know that won’t last much longer than the well-worn futon we have right now, so we’d rather endure the current stuff longer so we can save up for something of real value. We’re wondering what furniture would be good to buy so that it will be affordable, but last us well through the next 10 years.

  • laura
    July 26, 2010 at 12:34 am

    The hardwood floor in the house where I live is pretty badly damaged in some spots, ranging from the finish being worn off to a few dark spots where pets likely had an accident. I can’t refinish or paint the floor(rental) but I really like the feeling of the hardwood on my bare feet. Any ideas on how to spiff it up a bit without too many area carpets?
    thanks!

  • Lauren
    July 26, 2010 at 7:39 am

    What are tricks/style elements that make a rough wooden floor work in a room?

  • Sarah A.
    July 26, 2010 at 8:36 am

    Oh—I love John Gidding!

    My question is: What kinds of furniture or finishes are smart to invest in quality (aka expensive) items, and what areas are okay to skimp on and buy more cheaply? When designing on a budget, you usually have to pick and choose what items to splurge on, and sometimes its tricky knowing which investments would be the smartest. Thanks!

  • Alice
    July 26, 2010 at 8:40 am

    I’d like some affordable tips on how to make a guest room pretty and functional, but still serve a few purposes for us (storage, ironing, etc.).

    You and John will be a great duo to answer questions!!

  • Dayna
    July 26, 2010 at 9:45 am

    Fun! What’s the best paint color to paint a dark living room?

  • Rosemary
    July 26, 2010 at 9:51 am

    I live in a 375 sq ft studio apartment with 15ft ceilings and six 10ft windows. What are some suggestions for curtains in a small space? I don’t want to overpower the small room with a heavy fabric or busy print, but I need something to block the Arkansas summer heat.

  • Linda
    July 26, 2010 at 9:52 am

    I have spent years collecting things I love but I feel like my house looks like a gift boutique. Can I leave it or do I ( sniff sniff ), get rid of some stuff? I am not one to switch every month or so.

  • kimberly
    July 26, 2010 at 9:58 am

    How important is it to stick to all-dark furniture in a bedroom? Do you have any tips for making bedroom furniture work together, even if they don’t match? Or should you just paint it to make it all dark?

  • Shelter Media Watch: This Bedroom Brought to You by American Express :: The Studioist
    July 26, 2010 at 10:00 am

    […] with fresh content and a new project. In addition, Amex and HGTV are currently underwriting a generous ten winner giveaway on the site. On the other hand, it can be argued that while self-funded, self-documented decorating […]

  • Trish T.
    July 26, 2010 at 10:10 am

    What are some good alternatives to tiling a kitchen backsplash? I want something more durable than paint, but with a punch of color (I’m afraid of the permanence of colored tile).

  • TraceyCK
    July 26, 2010 at 10:27 am

    Hi John! The way our house is situated, the front of the house gets a lot of shade, while the back of the house gets alot of light – should i try and use the same paint color to unify the interiors, or go with a front of house cooler color/back of house warmer color? Thank you!

  • Teresa
    July 26, 2010 at 10:33 am

    What are your ideas for a simple, inexpensive centerpiece for a dining room table that is used several times a day for meals, art projects, homework, etc.? Thanks!

  • Lisa A
    July 26, 2010 at 10:38 am

    My boyfriend and I are buying a house and currently the kitchen has blue cabinets.. they aren’t horrendous but not my taste (imagine dusty country blue) there are lovely black granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances.. I am trying to decide if I can paint the cabinets a color rather than just plain old white and accent it with a paint on the walls.. I was thinking a grey color perhaps or a taupe or beige? My style overall is modern organic? Think West Elm.. any ideas?!

  • Heather
    July 26, 2010 at 10:42 am

    What are the best changes / updates to make before you put your house on the market without making a big investment?

  • Carly
    July 26, 2010 at 10:47 am

    I want to spruce up my very small house. I have lots of ideas but NO BUDGET. What are your recommendations for making a change with out the cost?

  • Jill
    July 26, 2010 at 10:49 am

    I’d like to wall paper a small wall in my living room/kitchen. Something grass and texture maybe?? But I’m a bit scared. Seems so permanent. I’d love some advice.

  • Jessica
    July 26, 2010 at 11:04 am

    I enjoy reading about doing a room on say 100.00 or less. Being Thrifty with redecoration! Can you do a redo on 100.00?

  • Trish
    July 26, 2010 at 11:07 am

    Should you paint your own kitchen cabinets or hire someone to paint them for you?

  • Christiana
    July 26, 2010 at 11:18 am

    What’s a good source for affordable wallpaper? I want to wallpaper a small nook in my house but am completely intimidated by the expense and the prospect of having a ton of leftovers since many places have a minimum order.

    In other news, great giveaway!! I bet those people who were complaining about your pairing with American Express are eating their words now. Good on you. :)

  • Autumn
    July 26, 2010 at 11:29 am

    I’d like tips for mixing non-matching furniture–I prefer not to have a full on “bedroom set” but am having trouble thinking about what pieces to mix and match as far as wood tones/color.

  • janette
    July 26, 2010 at 11:38 am

    I am having trouble hanging things in my new house. Is there any tips to follow when hanging pictures on the wall

  • Jen
    July 26, 2010 at 11:43 am

    I agree with a lot of these already mentioned, but probably the thing I would want help with is decorating with mismatched furniture and wood finishes. Also, how to “build a look” over time – we have a lot of “inherited” stuff since we’re newlyweds, and it would be nice to continue to use it, but at some point we may replace them. So I guess, how to use what you have, but anticipate changes in furniture or even style in the future.

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