Crafting Vintage Style: Charming Projects for Home and Garden (Country Living Series)

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"Gee, I wish I would have thought of that" is the kind of response that British stylist-textile firm owner Strutt evokes with her simple, ingenuous approach to creating decorative accessories from, virtually, nothing. Few directions litter the path to finishing the 30 projects showcased; instead, the author relies on a combination of illustrations and photographs, with a few sentences, to depict the how-tos. Don't expect either templates or precise lists of materials; this is strictly for the thrifty, using up scraps and handy household items. So scalloped shelf edging must redeploy leftover wallpaper with colored duct tape. And a two-dimensional plaid teddy bear is close to a naive portrait of this childhood favorite. Easy, quick, memorable items for house and garden. Barbara Jacobs
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These enchanting decorative accents are an easy way to evoke vintage style in your home. Use flea market treasures like fabric, buttons, and ribbons, as well as new fabrics in classic styles, to create projects for every room -- and even the garden. Let the sunshine in with light and airy curtains that are an ideal choice for the summer months. Look for a fine cotton muslin printed with a faded pattern like the rose motif shown here, which suits this type of curtain perfectly. Sometimes all it takes is a simple decorative accent to lend old-fashioned charm to a project. Try adding fabric edging to a shelf to transform it from a utilitarian storage piece to an attractive showcase. Vintage French check always looks lovely and at home wherever you use it. In days gone by, people stored things that are attractive enough to display on peg boards. Now you can, too. A clothespin board is a much better place than the refrigerator door to keep post cards, magazine cuttings, and invitations in sight where you can't forget them. It's no wonder aromatherapy is in vogue again as the sensuous aroma of herbs is so pleasing to the senses. Little sachets filled with lavender tucked near your pillow will soothe away the stresses of the day and gently lull you to sleep. Use fabric scraps to make your tiny pillows, and embellish them with buttons or ribbons. Patchwork quilts have a long, rich tradition as bed coverings and wall hangings. But nothing is a delightful as a crib quilt, whether for your child or as a gift. Those worn denim jeans and clothes that no longer fit or are out of fashion will look great in this project. Bonus: Projects for enhancing the garden, from sling chairs to a summer tent.


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