Nature Photo Art

Don't be afraid to create your own art. Nature offers us so many photographic opportunities. It would be a shame to not capture its beauty. Any camera will do. However... the better the camera, the more options you will have. Go for abstract art and focus on color and composite. The following website has many tips and tutorials about photographic techniques.

http://www.amateursnapper.com

$7 Wall Art

Here's my $7 wall art solution. This project may cost more depending upon the cost of the picture frames. I found my frames brand new (still in their original packaging) at a thrift store for $.50 each ($7 total for the frames). I found the discontinued upholstery samples for free! The blue paint on the wall was left over from a previous paint job at my old residence. You can also use fabric from discarded clothing, fabric remnants, old curtains, table linens, etc. Don't forget to look at both sides of the fabric. I even use the "wrong" side sometimes. Alternatives to fabric are scrapbook paper, premium gift wrapping paper, or wallpaper. Think outside of the box. As long as you color coordinate and present it as art, you will be fine.

Seashells by the Seashore

Picture Courtesy of BlueCreekHome.com

Do you have a collection of seashells from your vacation at the beach? Now you are wondering what to do with them. Here are a few ideas:

1. Take close up pictures of various shells. Then, mat and frame a collection of pictures to use in a beach themed room such as a bathroom.
2. Place shells in a vase with a candle in the center.
3. Place shells in a basket or bowl as a centerpiece.
4. Place shells in a shadow box to hang on the wall or to use as a serving tray

Criss-Cross Coasters / Potholder

There is a cute coaster project at www.allsorts.typepad.com. It is quick and easy, and it can also be modified to make potholders. For potholders, you just need to use two layers of cotton batting instead of fusible web.. Also, make sure that you use 100% cotton fabric to achieve a country or textured look once washed.

Click here: Criss-Cross Coaster Instructions