Simple ways to spruce up your home decor

From Plain to Pretty

Don’t let the adage fool you: April’s flowers herald spring just as much as May’s post-shower buds. And what smarter way to display a bunch of hyacinths or daffodils than with this easy update of a basic glass vase? To do: Head to a crafts store (or raid your own sewing stash) for a few lengths of ribbon in complementary hues and of varying widths. Layer them, as we did here; use double-sided tape to hold them in place. Trim ribbon ends neatly to finish.







Can Do

Here’s a cheap way to cheer up your workspace: Save tin cans from the recycling bin and cover them in pretty gift wrap or wallpaper remnants. Gather a collection of different-size holders - from a tiny tomato-paste can to a larger juice container - to fit all your storage needs. Rinse and dry the cans, then cut paper to fit; a tape measure can give you the circumference. Use spray-mount adhesive (available at office supply stores) to stick on the paper. Mix and match several papers for a playful look.







Rug Rehab

Let us guess - your once-natty natural-fiber carpet has multiple stains. You’ve tried cleaning it, to no avail, and now you want to toss it. Don’t. Try this four-step revival plan instead: Put down a drop cloth; place the rug on top and roll its surface with a base color of latex paint (we chose flax). You’ll need about two gallons for an 8' by 10' rug. Mark stripes with painter’s tape; paint (we used a quart each of sky blue and navy).







Make a Stand

Elevate an everyday houseplant to greatness by displaying it on a stylish stool. If you don’t have a seat handy, check yard sales for a vintage perch or pick up a sleek new one for less than $40 at stores like Wal-Mart or Target.









Ribbon Cutting

Let spring breeze into a child’s room through a fluttery curtain made of ribbon. You’ll need a tension rod and about 10 yards each of five different ribbons (the amount will vary depending on window size). Cut the ribbons a few inches longer than you need in order to reach the sill, then tie each length onto the rod in a necktie knot. Alternate colors or patterns. Trim to fit.