CRAFTY BUT NOT COUNTRY


© Barbara Brice

Usually when someone mentions crafts, country decorating themes come to mind. You might think of craft fairs with cornhusk dolls, wooden shelves with heart cutouts, and jam jars with colorful fabric lids. But does being crafty mean you have to make it country? Most definitely not!

There are many crafts you can enjoy to create modern, contemporary, and even retro styles. I have noticed, on some of the new decorating tv programs, the use of crafts for such styles. Here is a list of a few I have seen: how to put a lacquer finish on furniture, how to use acrylic to make one of a kind table tops, using copper piping for creating artistic lamps and furniture, and what they can do with plumbing pipe is remarkable.

The detailing with fabric also has been crafty without giving a look of cottage or country. Pillows made from fabrics with shiny smoothy surfaces will fit in many styles. And don't think you have to stay flower free. A botantical print will also work in a modern or retro setting. The textures and geometric shapes help to create a sleek modern and contemporary look. For example, taking a simple four-leg wooden table and giving it a modern look. First by giving the legs socks made of pvc pipe sprayed with a chrome finish. Second by painting the table black with a chrome border and covering it with a sheet of glass. Add a few candle stands made from more painted pvc pipe and you've created a modern style dining setting.

How about a chandelier made of 2X2 sheets of frosted acrylic hanging from chains in a square shape around a multiple light fixture. The effect is definitely sleek and kind of retro. As for color, by using somewhat tone on tone colors, you can create a nice neutral, even when using bright colors.

So don't think doing crafts is only for those of us who love our country style! Your imagination is your only limitation.

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Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: View all related messages

4.   Sep 14, 2003 11:13 PM
In response to message posted by bici:

Barbara, I saw that program! Weren't those pillows fantastic. They had many other grea ...

-- posted by Roostergrl


3.   Sep 14, 2003 10:59 PM
In response to message posted by brisbaneartist:

Thank you, Jo
so glad you enjoyed the article. Good point about the multicul ...

-- posted by Roostergrl


2.   Sep 12, 2003 1:57 PM
In response to message posted by brisbaneartist:

Definitely agree! My home is as non-country as it can be, but it's filled wi ...


-- posted by bici


1.   Sep 12, 2003 1:24 PM
Couldn't agree with the sentiments of this article more.
Lately I have been blown away by the scope of what can be created with scraps and throw aways!
I guess the beauty of this site...Suite101 I m ...

-- posted by brisbaneartist





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