Vintage Book Collection {and a decorating fail}

Do you ever have an idea that you think is going to be really great only to get it completed (or almost) and realize: not gonna work.

Well, that happened to me last week, but I thought I would share it with you anyways just for fun.

It all started with my collection of vintage books. I have a small board on Pinterest called "library" with inspiring displays of books. I enjoy when they are randomly and haphazardly arranged.

Hand Painted Tree Bark Lampshade

I have another DIY tutorial for you today! It only takes minimal art skills, a vintage lampshade, seam binding and rope.

My motto for this year has been "to use what I have" (within reason of course) because I have so much stuff that I want to challenge myself to see things in new and creative ways, not only to save money, but also space in our small home. If you have followed me for awhile you may recall me mentioning my "hoarders" basement a time or two.

I had been wanting another lamp in the living room, and contemplated buying one, but I reminded myself of my motto and set to work to be creative.

Trendy Thrift Store Finds

I have found my style evolving a lot within the last couple of years. Blogging friends who knew me "way back when" (circa 2007-2010), will recall how much I loved everything to be white and "shabby chic". I even had a website for a short time that I called Painted White. Which is what I liked to do with most everything in those days.