American Farmhouse Style Fall 2018

The problem with making small updates to your home is that they almost always turn into larger ones. My husband and I have been redoing our kitchen, and we’re loving the result: white cabinets, butcher-block countertops, a farmhouse sink and black-and-white checkered floors. But now that the kitchen is looking so good, suddenly the living room looks a little shabby. Our white couch isn’t so white anymore and really needs a slipcover; we’re using a side table as a coffee table (oops); and one of our lamps has a shade that always sits off-kilter. But I didn’t notice any of this before—only when I compare it to shiny, updated kitchen do I see our furniture flaws. But that’s what this issue is all about: Getting your furniture right. They’re the…

Pumpkins. Wait until they ripen, not just when they reach the size you want. The skin should have its full color and feel hard to the touch. The pumpkin should sound hollow when you tap on it. Carrots. Most importantly, look at the seed packet to determine the number of days between planting and harvest, as this can differ greatly with each variety. You can also pull a few test carrots, which should be at least ¾” in diameter. Brussels Sprouts. Sprouts will form all the way up the plant, starting at the bottom. Harvest as they mature, in that order. Each sprout should be at least 1” in diameter before you pick it. Beets. You can usually harvest beets anywhere between 50-70 days after planting. The smaller the beet,…

1. Use them in your fall tablescape by writing the name of a guest on each one with a metallic marker. Tie twine around the napkin and tuck the leaf in the knot for a dual napkin ring and place card. 2. Press them like you would do with flowers, then use them on notecards, bookmarks or even cardstock for botanical-inspired wall art. 3. Paint the backs and use them as stamps to make a pattern on paper or fabric. You can make your own wrapping paper, accent pillows or linens.…

While not quite playing with fire, the art of wood burning is a fun and absorbing skill to learn and use for home décor DIY projects. With a steady hand, careful attention to the hot tools and the following steps, even beginners can create a cute sign that welcomes the autumn season. WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • Wood burning pen and stand• Interchangeable wood burning pen nibs (universal point, tapered point and flow point)• Natural basswood wood slice• Printed design graphic, sized as desired• Needle-nose pliers to change hot nibs• Ramekin or other heatproof ceramic dish• Graphite transfer paper• Transfer tool• Tape WHAT YOU’LL DO: 1. Tape the wood burning pen’s support stand to your work surface so it can’t move under the weight of the cord. Then, attach the tapered…

Blake McDaniel and her husband Travis didn’t know what to expect when they began their Etsy store, Rooted and Grounded, after moving to Georgia one year ago. “When we first started, we had the idea to make signs that just inspired you when you walked by,” Blake says. “It’s sort of surreal, for the shop to have grown this quickly.” The family-owned business focuses on bringing familial warmth to people’s homes. “When I think of decorating, I think of encouraging my family with Scripture or a quote that will encourage them throughout the day,” Blake says. What sets their shop apart is its dedication to a heartfelt, quality product. Blake and Travis make each sign from scratch in Tyrone, Georgia. “I think it’s important to buy American-made because you’re supporting…

FARMHOUSE TABLES THE EARLIEST FARM TABLES were made by settlers in the New World. As a result, they were strictly functional pieces, without any ornamentation. Because the setting was so rural, the makers were rarely able to kiln dry or cure their wood, so they air dried it, which would result in cracks and warps in the wood. As America became more settled, farmhouse tables gained better quality and variety in the type of wood and designs. In the 21st century, the term “farmhouse table” can encompass a wide variety of tables. But two characteristics remain central: they look rustic, and stand at the heart of the family home. TYPES OF FARMHOUSE TABLES Consider what kind of farmhouse table will work best for you and your family. TRESTLE. A trestle…