Picture a Pattern: Part 1

Pink paisley ottomanHello! In this new series of posts, I’ll be featuring a number of patterns that are great for decorating. I’ll start by showcasing a pink paisley pattern (right) from an ottoman located in a bedroom. While the ottoman itself brings a great pop of color, I wanted another way to tie it into the overall decor. My solution? Frame a picture of the pattern! This allows me to better tie in the pattern to the rest of my decor. You can do the same thing with your own ottoman, or use a pattern from a favorite rug, comforter, or pillow. Stay tuned for more ideas on framing patterns to add a unique touch to your space!

The Creek that Never Was

Trees with faux creekStaring out the window you can’t help but notice the mature trees and what looks like a small, dried up creek. It reality, this meandering indentation is a trench for an underground pipe. After installation, the trench was never filled in. As a result, I’m left with a beautiful picture of a faux creek meandering through trees! A similar picture is a great way to bring the outdoors into any room. As I’ve said in previous posts, optical illusions can provide great photographs and fun stories. No matter where you are, you’re sure to find an optical illusion that will be the perfect addition to your space!

The Puffin Pair

Puffin pair_aquariumWhile having fun at the aquarium, I ran across this cute pair of puffins! Since my friend’s birthday is coming up, this pair gave me the perfect inspiration for possible presents. You can use a photo of animal friends to create a card, use it as the cover for a scrapbook, or simply frame the picture and give it as a gift. There are many types of animals for you to photograph, along with a variety of settings-from zoos and aquariums, to your very own backyard. With a bit of patience, you’ll be able to capture the perfect pairing of animal friends!

Decorating with Underwater Photography: Part 2

Japanese King Crab_aquariumAs seen on the right, this post features a Japanese Spider Crab. When I walked up to the glass I couldn’t believe how big they were-and these were just juveniles! This picture is special because it gives the illusion of underwater night photography. There are usually a handful of exhibits in every aquarium that are in night mode, so you can easily take a similar photo. Photos like this are a great alternative to traditional Halloween decor! Hang your photo on the wall for a party to bring an elegant, but spooky vibe, to your space. With a bit of imagination, you can find creative and unique ways to display your underwater photos!

Jellyfish on the Beach

Jellyfish on beachOn the second day of my vacation I decided to visit one of the many state parks along the coast. As I walked along the shore, I noticed a number of things that looked out of place among the usual shells, rocks, and other debris. Moving closer to take a look I found out they were all jellyfish. Not just any jellyfish, they were purple jellyfish! These type aren’t native to the state I was in (I was told they’re usually found in California), so to see these was a real treat. Seeing unusual things is one great aspects of a vacation, and can help you develop all types of decoration ideas. Besides framing and displaying a similar photo, you could buy fabric that features jellyfish and use it to create pillow cases, make a blanket, or reupholster a piece of furniture. As I’ve said before, nature can be a great inspiration for decorating. Whether on land or at sea, you’re sure to find something to inspire you!

The Beach at Dusk

Beach at dusk_oceanAbove is a picture I took on the first day of my vacation. I saw this beautiful, sandy beach and just had to take a picture! I think it’s important to take photos on the first day of your vacation. Why? Because it’s great to start creating memories from day one of your adventure! There are so many things these first photos can be used for. They can be used as the cover for a scrapbook, used in a photo collage, or framed to create a grouping of photos that can be displayed on a shelf or wall. Whether you’re planning to take a vacation or already have a large collection of photos, you can use those early shots as an inspiration for a myriad of decorating ideas!

Framing Your Favorite Fabric

Pink summer yukata 1After wanting a kimono for a long time, last month I decided to purchase a summer yukata (similar to a kimono, except made of cotton). Once I saw how beautiful the yukata was in person, I decided I had to share a picture with you! As seen in the photos, the pink fabric is accentuated with sparkling, silver thread and features several varieties of flowers.

Pink summer yukata 2

Framing photos of your favorite fabrics is a great way to add personality to your space. It provides a pop of color, and the intricacies of the fabric’s design will have your guests talking. No matter what type of fabric you choose, you can create a beautiful piece of art that’s all you!

Trees in Bloom

Flowering PoplarAbout two weeks ago I was taking a walk during lunch, when I looked up and saw something unusual. It appeared that a tree had a blooming flower on it! I wasn’t sure what type of tree it was, so I decided to do some investigating. After doing some research, I found out the tree was a Tulip Poplar. Displaying photos of unusual plants is a great way to add interest and color to your space. You could display several smaller pictures on a wall or bookshelf, or use one large photo as a focal point in the room. Next time you’re enjoying the great outdoors, pay attention to unusual plants that may be hiding in plain sight. If you do, you’ll be able to capture a photo of a unique plant that will give you something new to decorate your space with!

Dew Drops Reflecting the World

Water droplets on leavesHello, and welcome to my 200th post! I want to give a big thanks to all of my readers and followers who have supported my blog thus far! I wanted to have a really cool picture for this post, and I think I’ve got it with the picture above. I noticed several drops of dew as I was walking toward work, and decided it would be a great opportunity to take an awesome picture. The glossy water really stands out against the matte leaves. If you look closely, you can see the clouds and sky reflected in the water droplets. I felt this simple, yet complicated image, was a great way to celebrate my 200th post! Looking forward to creating more posts that provide lots of inspiration for your space!

Blooms in Winter

Bloom in winter_pink and whiteEvery year there is a group of large bushes that tend to bloom in winter, even when it’s snowing. They have a variety of colors, but this time I decided to snap a photo of a bush that features pink and white flowers. I love flowers that are made up of more than one color! This gives me the perfect inspiration for a decorating theme. Using pops of pink and white against a neutral base is the perfect addition to your space. You could use accessories such as throw pillows, vases, a similar picture framed on a table, or a rug. Additionally, you could accent the pops of white and pink with other pastel colors that are perfect for welcoming spring. Even in winter, nature can provide pops of color and the perfect inspiration to brighten up your space!