from the inside out

It is mid June here in Wisconsin and that means that whenever possible, it is good to be outside. Each summer I tweak our backyard and porch with a few more additions and have found using interior items really adds a fun element. Case in point, this $ 3.00 hanging fixture I picked up at the Habitat ReStore.

Since the chain was already attached, I just unscrewed some bolts and removed the socket. Hung so that it gets plenty of light angles, it is like a mini chandelier.

Although pretty and unique, traditional garden art can be a little too theme-y and often over priced. Why not search your basement and garage for decorative items that can be re-used. Maybe your bathroom is no longer blue and those great mosaic votives you bought for it are gathering dust in a box. Tuck them amongst some potted plants for when the sun sets.

These thrift store turquoise Ball jars get double duty as sun catchers and as evening votive holders.I try to use things that can with stand the weather, but if by the end of the season, they don't hold up...at least they got one last great summer of use. A lot of times, metals will turn a beautiful rusty patina that even adds to the charm.

Old wine and beer bottles look cool lined against a window, especially accented with a string of Christmas lights. They even make outdoor paintings that are weatherproof.

AND, if you think you do not have any decorative skills to mix different styles, remind yourself of this.....If it makes you smile when you look at it, it is good design.