Sara Elizabeth Block Printers: Whiting Factory
Posted on | July 30, 2008 | Comments Off
I got a second surprise today. My block print came from Sara Elizabeth Block Printers! Love, love! I ordered “Whiting Factory” (below) in a large panel piece for just $32.50. My sister ordered the lobster print (above) and was able to get it framed for about $300. The lobsters look great in her family room. I am thinking of getting my piece framed in a antique wood frame. I want to order a dozen more. Great gift! Check out more: sarah-elizabeth-shop.com.
Ikat Fabric: Uzbeck Alive
Posted on | July 30, 2008 | 3 Comments

I received some gorgeous ikat fabric from Uzbeck Alive today. I ordered three pieces to check out the quality and color of the fabric for possibly use for some pillows. The textile is top quality and really beautiful. I did have a problem with my postman and my fabric got sent back. Uzbeck Alive immediately e-mailed me and resent the fabric absolutely free within just a few days. Great service! How cute is the package it came in (above)? Check out their store here: uzbekalive.com.



Dining Chairs: Classic Shapes
Posted on | July 29, 2008 | 3 Comments

I’ve been thinking about what I would like our new dining room to look like. The house is so old that I feel like I need to go with an older classic style. I’ve been eyeing these two styles. Above are antique Windsor chairs that appear August issue of Martha Stewart. I love the simple shape and black finish. I did a quick search and found chairs ranging from $300-$30,000 for individuals and sets. Windsor chairs are classic Americana. Depending on age and set size the price increases.
The chairs below are from my favorite classic kitchen from domino. I’ve been dreaming of the blue penny round tiles in my kitchen for days. The rare set of Thonet Bentwood chairs look totally dreamy in the space. There are number of different Bentwood styles but this is truly my favorite. A similar style is available at Conran for $275 each. My search begins now!


Susan Daul: Fraktur Artist
Posted on | July 29, 2008 | 1 Comment
I discovered these pieces this afternoon and fell in love. Folk art artist Susan Daul creates simple framed artworks called Fraktur. Fraktur are a highly artistic and elaborate 18th century and 19th century illuminated folk art drawings created by the Pennsylvania Dutch. “Some of her Fraktur reflect the reworking of a period piece, but most of her designs are original and come from the excitement she feels for this fascinating art form.” (traditionalfolkart.com) I love the colors and ornate frames she creates for the pieces. Super fun and whimsical. Prices range for prints from $72-$175 and original paintings will run you from $350-$2500.Check out more from Susan on her website: susandaulfolkart.com.
Wood Farm Tables
Posted on | July 29, 2008 | Comments Off

I love old wood tables. The table we have my mom actually found for us on the side of the road. The name “Randy” is carved into the center of the table. I was actually searching tonight for dining chairs when I came across these gorgeous farm tables. The tiger maple wood is so pretty. I am sure it looks stunning in real life. The tables range in size from 5 feet-11 feet. Available in Cherry or Tiger Maple wood finishes. Prices range from $1,200-$3,200. Check out the site: greatwindsorchairs.com.
Old Bricks and Cobblestones
Posted on | July 28, 2008 | 2 Comments
My second stop on Friday was at some place that had bricks and cobble stones. I don’t even know what to call it. There was nobody there so we were out of luck. My mom told me you can pay the town to take the bricks. The bricks and cobblestones are from old wreck buildings in the town of Portland. You would have no idea this place was here unless someone told you. The bricks are 4 cents each and the cobblestones are $2 each. The bricks are a deal. The cobblestones seem a bit steep. I wanted them to put as a border in my front garden and eventually bordering my driveway. I guess I need to investigate some other sources. The place was interesting though!


ReStore Portland, Maine
Posted on | July 28, 2008 | Comments Off
We have to buy everything new for the house from sinks to molding. Since neither one of us are millionaires we need to find cost effective resources for the renovation. We don’t have the money to just hire an architect and come back in a few months to a gorgeous home. We are excited about doing all the work ourselves. I love the hunting part. You never know what you’ll find.
On Friday, I headed up to my mom’s house in Portland, Maine to check out some local resources for building materials. We checked out the Restore run by Habitat for Humanity first to see what they had. I saw lots of doors, windows, moldings, sinks, and spare wood. A great resources for anyone working on a renovation. Greg and I really want to use as many recycled materials that seem appropriate not only because it is cost effective but it’s just logical to use old buildings supplies for a home. We don’t want to add to the waste in landfills and junkyards. I took a few shots of the store so that you could get idea of what you can get at these store. Get more info about Restores in your area: habitat.org/cd/env/restore.aspx







































