Where did you find that?

I am always looking for a good bargain. I don't mind buying used, close out, or refurnished items as long as they are still use able (which is a given, i know). But, we get so excited about an item and what we think is a great deal is actually a worthless piece of junk- I know i have been there... and boy is that frustrating. To avoid the pitfalls that can come from eagerness and reckless buying, I've developed some "straight to the point" guidelines i would use when buying from the Internet (such as Ebay, craigslist or the tv shopping network or catalogues).

So, to get the most bang for your buck-
1. Do your research- the more you know the better idea you'll have on what makes a piece high quality or low.

2. Know what you are looking for. It amazes me how many people just simply shop to shop- and buy things they don't really love. They just BUY because they need something to fill the space. You will have MUCH more success if you decide beforehand what type of item you want. What style, colors, price etc. Then you can narrow down quickly what will and won't work for you.

3. If someone claims to have a "vintage" piece or something by a specific designer, make sure they have a certificate or you can see the branding. Don't get taken in by a name either. I think Frank Lloyd Wright made some beautiful furniture, but I'm not going to buy it to furnish a comfortable loft simply because it's a frank Lloyd Wright. Which leads me to the next point-

4. Buy appropriately. If you are finishing a dining room for a young family of 5 it might not be the best idea to get silk covered chairs. You can still get the look you want and buy smart.

5. Set a budget and don't go over it. You can find a lot of sellers who accept offers and with others you can simply ask for a discount. Often,if a seller rally wants to rid of something they will cut you a deal.

6. Make sure you see the entire object by all sides. Retail websites usually take returns, but private sellers often don't. Make sure you know what you are committing to purchase.

Don't be dissuaded by shipping online. Just be smart. It is extremely convenient and you can find some killer deals online and in catalogs. Now all you have to do is decide what you need to buy next....

Be Daring!

What are you dying to try but haven't yet?

I live in a pretty drab place right now. I just moved in and the walls are a yawn. I can't decide between these colors:
























































































I am into warmer tones and wall textures right now.
Once I get my last project done I am going to start painting.

What interests you right now?