DIY--My Way!

Looking for a DIY project with a shortcut? Pick up I Modify IKEA: Furnishings from Everyone's Favorite Store, Customized for Your Home by Elyse Major and Charlotte Rivers for some great ideas. The book includes over 40 creative modifications to furnishings for every room of the house. The projects range from easy to difficult with most being completed in under 6 hours.

If you like IKEA and want to have some design fun—this book is for you! DB

Totally Awesome Towels!

Have you ever been on a cruise and wondered how they make all those cute little towel animals? Well check out The Lost Art of Towel Origami for the answer! Author Alison Jenkins gives instructions for a cute fish, puppy, and ladybug. There’s even a basket made of towels that you can fill with bath goodies. This book is full of great ideas to customize gifts for birthdays, showers or just bath-time treats.  You could even try the designs with napkins for a special dinner party. Enjoy! DB

Homes That Make You Smile

Looking for some inspiration for the home?  I just picked up Oxford's copy of Happy Home: Everyday Magic for a Colorful Life by Charlotte Hedeman Gueniau, a gorgeous book full of vibrant and whimsical design ideas.  From floral rugs to colorful place settings, you're sure to start brainstorming for your own space as you browse through this fun and beautiful book.  HM

Sewing, From Start to Finish

Having just inherited my first sewing machine, I'm antsy to get stitching -- the only problem is that I haven't a clue what I'm doing.  The Colette Sewing Handbook by Sarai Mitnick breaks down the basics in a fun, informative way.  From choosing the right fabric to demystifying the fitting process, Mitnick provides concise instructions and guidance, as well as some classic silhouettes from her Colette Patterns, her own line of sewing patterns.  I can't wait to get started!  HM

Simply Irresistible!

Do you have a small space that needs some TLC? Check out Janet Lee’s Living in a  Nutshell: Posh and Portable Decorating Ideas for Small Spaces for some striking projects. She is a veteran apartment dweller with bold sense of style. Although her style is based on her mother's vintage elegance, I love the modern quirkiness and innovative use of everyday items. Her suggestions are not only colorful and entertaining but time-saving too. Janet uses snappy shortcuts and inexpensive materials for a designer look. She really thinks outside-the-box. Fabulous---darling! DB

home decorating

Love home decorating? Read design blogs? You'll love Design Sponge at Home by Grace Bonney. Author of the blog DesignSponge, Bonney takes us into reader's homes (called Sneak Peeks) and also includes DIY projects and "before and afters" which features old furniture repurposed and redone. Design Sponge represents a new era in home decorating. Formerly the province of glossy magazines and high end decorators, the Internet has given us quirky design blogs and the ethic of DIY. The book also features tons of photos and information. ML