Heirloom Chic -- found it at the Big Box

Rachel's favorite, Brocade Home, and others like Target, are featured on the Today Show. But not in a segment you might expect. It is not about creating the "new" look, but the "old". For traditional charm and heirloom- feel, we might think to turn to yard sales and the antique store.

Susanna Salk, home decor expert, tells how you can achieve old world charm even if you can't afford to buy expensive antiques, or if you simply can't find what you are looking for at yard sales or the antique store. She has cleverly sourced items found at the Big Boxes and other mass marketers to create that Heirloom-Chic look.

Here are some take-aways to do-it-yourself:

1) Mass marketers, like Brocade and Target, provide heirloom-chic style furnishings that won't cost an arm and a leg.

2) Wallpaper is grand and beautiful. It does not need to take over a space, but can be hung on an accent wall.

3) Mixing patterns adds character to a room. Don't be afraid to mix patterns.

4) Mix old and new. If you can't afford grand antique pieces, consider investing in smaller pieces, like silverware. "Phoebes" will love the antique source - 1stdibs.com -- given in this clip.

5) Even modern spaces can be made more unique with an heirloom-style accent piece.

6) Family heirloom pictures -- even of your pet -- add that heirloom feel.

7) Consider the hardware on your dressers and drawers. Give them an uplift with new "old" hardware.

What are your favorite take-aways?

No More Hospital Blinds!

Laura, of lauragunn.com, a new St. Louis favorite and artist, has agreed to help Gina and I with our Haven of Grace project. I am so excited about her right brain joining our team.

I was searching her blog -- Paint in My Hair -- and found so many amazing ideas for stretching our decorating dollar. I will feature a few here, so stay tuned, or visit her site if you can't wait.

Her slip covered blinds (see above photo) should win some kind of prize! Oh, how I dislike those metal or plastic hospital blinds -- so sterile, home use should be outlawed. Learn more: click here.

And look how Laura retrofitted an antique highchair to buckle in her son so he doesn't take flight. How did they do without seat belts in the olden days?

Wow, I am impressed. Laura wins my DIY prize for the week!

Kimberly's Vintage Chalkboard

Chalkboard paint designs continue with this beautiful vintage chalkboard created by Kimberly of Niesz Home ...and fabric.

Get her how-tos by clicking here: Easy Weekend Project -- Framed Chalkboard.

Also, check out Kimberly's website -- Niesz Vintage Fabric and Design -- a wonderful source for vintage fabric.

Thanks Kimberly for sharing your project!

Keep those chalkboard projects coming! Please share what you have created or anything you have found on the web.