AsktheDecorator.com Latest Videos

Closet System Buying Guide

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 07:29:57 PST

Finding something in your closet shouldn't be an difficult task, and it doesn't have to be if your closet is in order. But keeping your closet in order is a difficult task if you don't have a good closet system. So to help you prevent chaos in your closet I visited California Closets to get expert advice on how to select a good closet system and how to make sure you're dealing with a good closet system company.

Breeze-worthy Outdoor Ceiling Fans

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 19:13:18 PST

Beat the summer heat by getting the perfect outdoor ceiling fan for your home. No matter your outdoor space, it'll benefit from the cooling breezes of a fan.
But before you can enjoy the soothing coolness of an outdoor ceiling fan you need to know how to pick the perfect one. To discover just that I visited the Trading Post Fan Company to talk with the Casablanca Fan Company Marketing Manager, Dana Bigman. While there, she got me up to speed with the latest outdoor ceiling fan info.

Sweep Your Energy Costs Away with Ceiling Fans

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 18:59:08 PST

Ceiling fans not only save you from the heat, but also lower your energy bills year round. They help keep you cool in the summer and toasty in the winter.
To discover how ceiling fans both heat and cool you as well as how to select the right ceiling fan for your home, I visited the Trading Post Fan Company and talked with the Marketing Manager for Casablanca Fan Company, Dana Bigman. There she taught me all the basics about how to get the most from a ceiling fan.

Credit: The shopping cart used to demonstrate what to look for when shopping for ceiling fans online belongs to http://www.hansenwholesale.com.

How to Make Edible Bouquets

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 08:26:27 PST

Deck out your table or surprise your loved ones with a beautiful, edible bouquet. Both pretty and tasty, edible bouquets combine the best of both worlds.
To discover how to make edible bouquets, I visited Chef Jason Hill, the host of the Internet show, Chef Tips. Jason taught me how to make both a fruit and a vegetable edible bouquet. And while I thought the edible fruit bouquet one was tastier, the edible vegetable bouquet was undoubtedly the looker.

Tasty and Beautiful: The Art of Edible Centerpieces

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 08:14:44 PST

Tasty and beautiful, edible centerpieces add a unique twist to the typical dinner party spread. To discover how to make edible centerpieces, I visited Chef Jason Hill, the host of the Internet show Chef Tips.
Jason taught me the essential characteristics of beautiful edible centerpieces as well as how to make a grape tower and an olive tower.

The New Face of Ceramic Tile

Tue, 27 May 2008 07:12:45 PST

    Think ceramic tile is boring? Think again. Ceramic tile has a whole new look that ranges from hip and modern to classy and traditional. Full of style, interest and beauty, ceramic tile can easily be the focal point of any room.
    And wanting to take full advantage of all of the gorgeous ceramic tile options, I visited Walker Zanger to discover how to make stunning ceramic tile designs. Tile connoisseur, Tristan McManaman, taught me not only which type of ceramic tiles are used where, but also why people love ceramic tile.
    To see what I learned, watch the video. And don't be surprised if you suddenly start dreaming about ceramic tile.

Limestone Flooring: Durable, Beautiful and Unique

Mon, 19 May 2008 07:55:16 PST

Sometimes carpet or hardwood just won't do, and you need a much more interesting floor. And if I were choosing, it would be limestone. Limestone flooring is one of my absolute favorites. It looks gorgeous in any room and is incredibly easy to maintain. During my visit to Impression, one of the best limestone fabricators in America, I got to see limestone floors up close -- and were they beautiful. Wow.
To discover the benefits of limestone flooring, the many different styles and what to avoid, watch the video.

Falling in Love with the Casual Elegance of Limestone

Mon, 19 May 2008 07:42:32 PST

Of all stones, limestone is by far one of my favorite. Unlike marble and granite, limestone has a casual, elegant appeal that looks natural and rugged. Loved by most for it's numerous shades of beige and consistent texture, limestone goes with anything as I discovered during my visit to Impression, one of the leading limestone fabricators in the Nation.
To discover the benefits of limestone, how to select a slab and what colors are available, watch the video.

Custom Poker Tables: A Must Have or a Waste of Money?

Mon, 12 May 2008 06:49:16 PST

While it may seem cool to have your name emblazoned on your poker table, is it worth the cost? That's what I wanted to know during my visit at Stine Game Tables, one of the hottest poker table manufacturers in the country.
The owner, Jeff Stine, taught be the advantages and disadvantages of going and custom and showed me the amazing features you can get when buying a custom poker table.

Picking the Perfect Poker Table

Mon, 12 May 2008 06:21:40 PST

Nothing's like throwing away good money during a long poker game with friends. But throwing away good money on a poker table? Not good. So to help you get the best deal on a poker table -- and by default save more money for the games -- I visited Stine Game Tables to discover what poker table features are a must and which you can skip on.
While the answers may be apparent, don't be fooled. Jeff Stine, the owner of Stine Game Tables, surprised me by his answers. For example, ever think padded arm rests were a must? Neither did I, but you'll discover why in the video.

Green Products for Your Home

Sun, 04 May 2008 08:26:30 PST

Using green products when decorating your home is not just about preserving the environment. It can preserve your health. During my visit to epOxyGreen, a green building product retailer in Venice Beach, CA, I discovered why to use green products in your home and how to find them. And while I thought all of the products would be ugly or neutrals, when I got there I was amazed by the colors and beautiful selection. You definitely don't have to sacrifice style when purchasing green products.

Getting to the Bottom of Going Green

Sun, 04 May 2008 08:02:29 PST

Almost everywhere we look we're being told to "go green." But rarely are we given an explanation of what going green means or why we should be going green. To get to the bottom of being green and why we should go green, I met up with two founding members of the LA Green Consortium.

Talking with them not only helped me understand why going green is important, but renewed my belief that being eco-friendly is not only good for the environment but also good for our health.

Decorative Concrete: The Swan of Decorating Products

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 17:42:28 PST

    Decorative concrete isn't one of the first products people think to use when decorating their home. Typically considered a structural material, concrete has stayed out of the limelight for centuries. But not anymore.
    Used for countertops, sinks, fireplace surrounds and floors, decorative concrete steals the show in many rooms. But don't think beauty is its only claim to fame. Decorative concrete is an incredibly durable and easy to maintain product.
    During my trip to Advanced Concrete Enhancement, I discovered the design options and benefits of decorative concrete as well as how to hire a decorative concrete contractor.

Crazy for Concrete Countertops

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 12:42:52 PST

On a quest to find the truth about concrete countertops, I headed to sunny California to meet Blayde Penza, the owner of Advanced Concrete Enhancement. During my visit to his shop, I discovered quite a few startling facts about concrete countertops. But the most notable one was -- they're soft and smooth. Concrete countertops are the best feeling countertops I've ever touched, and don't be fooled by their smooth exterior. According to Blayde, concrete countertops can hold their own and are perfect for a busy kitchen.

Secrets to Finding the Ideal Garage Doors

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:58:17 PST

Most never think about the qualities of ideal garage doors. That is, until they need new ones. Then it's a mad dash to discover what makes a garage door good and how to tell which one you need for your home. After all, the garage door is the biggest moving part on your home so it does need a bit of consideration.
But don't worry. During my trip to Clopay, the leading garage door manufacturer in America, I did the work for you. I discovered what you need to know when selecting the ideal garage door for your home, and even picked up an extra tip your garage door dealer probably never would have told you.

Give Your Garage Door Style, Boost the Value of Your Home

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:54:49 PST

    Most of the garage door styles we see are, well, all the same. Just take a driving tour around your neighborhood, and you'll see what I mean. But not all garage doors are that boring. There are numerous garage doors available that not only drastically increase the curb appeal of your home, but also increase your home's resell value.
   To discover more about the transforming power of a new garage door style, I visited the leading garage door manufacturer in America, Clopay. While there I learned how to select the right garage door style for your home.
   But the best part? Seeing the dramatic before and after pictures. They're so amazing, you'll want to go out and get a new garage door today.

Suspended Ceilings Have a Whole New Look That You'll Actually Love

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 07:57:36 PST

There's nothing about suspended ceilings that are pretty -- until now. That's right. Those ugly suspended ceiling tiles have been replaced with stylish options that are so beautiful they'll trick you into thinking they're a normal ceiling.
Don't believe me? I don't blame you. I was skeptical at first too. But after visiting Armstrong and seeing them for myself, I'm happy to say that suspended ceilings are no longer a curse in our basements. Now, they can actually add to our decor. But you should probably watch the video to see for yourself.

Frustrated With Your Room? Ceiling Tiles May Be Your Answer.

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 07:45:43 PST

    Ceiling tiles are one of those decorating materials few people know exist, and if they do, they rarely think to use them. We've grown so accustomed to boring, white ceilings that it rarely crosses our mind to decorate them. But often that's just what we need.
    If you were to take a quick tour of your home, you'd be shocked by how much of your ceilings you actually see. Ceilings have a big impact on our rooms, and one way to make them stand out is to cover them with decorative ceiling tiles or planks.
    In this video, I visit Armstrong to learn about the different types of ceiling tiles, where they can be used and how easy they are for a do-it-yourselfer to install. Plus, I got to see some gorgeous pictures of how they've been used in homes that you won't want to miss.

The Six Tests for Finding the Perfect Sheets

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 19:22:24 PST

    When buying sheets, don't fall into the thread count trap. Instead use the six must-use sheet-buying tests Creative Director, Alan Jesseman, taught me during my trip to Anichini.
    The tests are simple and quick. And the best part is that you can do them while standing in a department store without feeling awkward.
    So watch the video to discover which sheet fabric is best for what season and why crumpling the sheets is a must before checking out.

10 Sheet Washing Tips Everyone Should Know

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 19:20:10 PST

For years I've been washing my sheets all wrong. While I don't like to admit it, I'm an over-crowding, top-loading, warm water, dryer-using sheet washer.
But not anymore. After visiting Alan Jesseman, the creative director at Anichini, I now know the right way to wash my sheets. His 10 tips extend the life of your sheets and make washing a breeze. It's the drying that's a bit of a challenge. But I'll leave those details for the video.

The 8 Linens Every Home Should Have (And the Other 4 We Wish We Did)

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:42:49 PST

    Sometimes our linen closets need to be reevaluated, or in my case need to be built. After graduating from college, I had yet to build a linen collection of my own and had no idea which ones were best to own. Knowing that I wasn't the only one who lacked the proper linens, I took a trip to rural Vermont to visit luxury linen manufacturer, Anichini.
    At the company's headquarters I met up with Alan Jesseman, Anichini's creative director. Amongst a wealth of fabric samples, Jesseman taught me which linens were essential for the home and most importantly -- the fabrics of which they should be made.
    So if your linen closet needs some attention or you're creating a wedding registry, this is a video you don't want to miss. Jesseman walks me through the bedroom, bathroom and table linens that are a must and teaches me why it's smart to have duplicates of everything.

The Anatomy of a Well Made Bed

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:26:51 PST

    After years of embarrassing myself by not knowing the difference between a duvet and a comforter -- or possibly worse, a sleeping pillow and Euro pillow, I decided it was time to brush up on my linen lingo and take a crash course in bedding.
    So I headed to luxury linen manufacturer, Anichini, to view firsthand the different types of bedding. From sheets to bed coverings to pillows, Susan Monk, Anichini's New York City Showroom Manager, walked me through all of the bedding options and even allowed me to help her make one of the showroom beds.

The Secrets to Selecting and Caring for Marble Countertops

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 10:38:02 PST

Marble countertops add an instant wow factor to any room. Their rich colors and beautiful veining make them a focal point in any style decor. But marble is also generally more vulnerable to staining and scratching than other stones like granite. So, to make the most of your investment, you need to have the right information.
In this video episode Meghan visits the Vermont Marble Museum and talks with its director, Robert Pye, about how to select the right type of marble for your countertops and how to keep it in good condition for as long as possible.

Marble 101: What You Need to Know Before Using Marble in Your Home

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 09:10:17 PST

Marble adds elegance and a refined style to any home, but before you can enjoy the luxury of marble you need to know some basic facts about marble in order to make the most of your investment.
In this video episode Meghan visits the Vermont Marble Museum to talk to its director, Robert Pye. There she discovers how to marble is different from granite, how to select the right marble for your lifestyle and how to make sure your marble really does work into your decorating scheme.

The "Green" Side of Real Christmas Trees

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 10:43:26 PST

Real Christmas trees look green, smell green and if it's possible, even feel green. But are they really "green"? Answering on first instinct, you'd probably say yes. It just makes sense that something grown from the earth would be environmentally friendly. But apparently, the answer is not quite clear-cut.
In this video Meghan visits Big Tree Plantation to discover if real Christmas trees are environmentally friendly.

3 Steps to Picking the Perfect Christmas Tree

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 10:32:46 PST

During my trip to Big Tree Plantation, a Christmas tree farm outside of Cincinnati, Ohio, I discovered the simple secrets to successful Christmas tree shopping that take all of the pain and frustration out of buying a real Christmas tree. Well, almost all of the pain. You should still bundle up, because it will be colder than you think.

The Key to Picking the Best Door Locks

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 06:35:36 PST

For a crash course in door lock basics, I visited the Technical Trainer and Representative at Baldwin Hardware, Tom Embriani. My lesson covered the two types of exterior door locks, which type of exterior door lock is best and when to use interior door locks. But rather than bore you with more details about my lesson, I'll let you watch the video.

Deck out Your Doors with New Door Hardware

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 06:15:45 PST

One of the easiest and inexpensive ways to increase your home's curb appeal and interior charm is to get new door hardware. But if you've ever shopped for door hardware, well, you know that's a little less than easy. So I headed to Baldwin Hardware to meet with the company's Vice President and General Manager, Chas Seymour, to discover the insider tricks for shopping for door hardware with ease. You'll be surprised by how much his simple tricks really help.

How to Select and Care for a Tapestry

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 07:57:54 PST

Tapestries can add a depth of texture and richness of color hard to replicate with other forms of art. The wool and silk blend together creating almost a living canvas depicting stunning beauty. But before you get caught up in the art and hand over your hard-earned money, you need to know how to make the most of that investment.
In this episode, Meghan visits tapestry artist Pamela Topham to get an experts advice about how to tell if a tapestry is well made and sturdy and how to care for a tapestry once it's in your home.

How to Commission a Tapestry

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 07:47:05 PST

When most people think tapestries they imagine medieval castles adorned with massive woven artwork displaying battles and religious icons. But a lot has changes since then. Wall tapestries can depict anything from gorgeous landscapes to modern, geometric motifs.
However, one similarity that remains between the medieval tapestries and the modern ones is that they are both commissioned pieces. While you probably don't have enough money to commission tapestries like the kings of old, you can commission one that will fit above your mantel or over your couch. And in this episode Meghan visits tapestry artist Pamela Topham to discover how to commission a tapestry today.

How Scented Candles Affect Your Home

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 07:56:17 PST

Scented candles can do much more than just make rooms smell nice, they can actually be used to change the way we perceive our rooms. In fact, the right scent can make a small room seem larger or a large, sterile room seem cozier. But the trick is knowing which scents do what and how to mix them to create your own personal scent.
In this episode Meghan visits Yankee Candle Company and talks with their Chief Scent Officer, Rick Ruffolo, about how to use scented candles to create the right "scentmosphere" in your home.

What you Didn't Know you Needed to Know About Candles

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 23:08:10 PST

When people picture a well decorated room, there is almost always in candle somewhere in the design. Candles are one of the most common decorating accessories, yet we give them so little thought. They use candles as splashes of color or wonderful scents to our spaces all the time without thinking about what makes a good candle or how can I get the most out of my candle.
In this episode Meghan visits Yankee Candle Company to get to the bottom of all the candle basics. From how to properly smell a candle to how to prevent soot stains, you'd be surprised how much there really is to know about the common candle.

How to Make Your Move as Smooth as Possible

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:18:48 PST

House moving should be exciting. You're moving onto a new part of your life. It's a milestone; the next step in your life's journey. But instead it's usually marked by stress and anxiety. But it doesn't have to be that way. According to Master Simplifier, professional organizer and owner of White Space, Cynthia Ivie, you can make your move a seamless one with the right preparation.
In this episode Meghan chats with Cynthia about how to make moving your home a snap, sharing her years of personal and professional experience. From how to hire a mover to what you should and shouldn't pack yourself, her tips will save you a lot of trouble during your move.

How to get Your Home in Order

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 10:09:46 PST

Home organization is that often avoided task that has an ugly way of reminding us that it needs to be done. "Where was that hat; it was here yesterday." Or how about, "Have you seen my keys?" Yeah, we all know that frustration all too well. I bet if I added up all the time I wasted searching for things through my clutter it would be at least a month of my life by now.
Today, there will be no running away from home organization. With the help of Master Simplifier and owner of the organization firm White Space, Cynthia Ivie, and her home organization tips, both you and I can tackle our cluttered closets, chaotic kitchens and disordered garages. Imagine all the time we're going to save!

The Easy way to Organize Your Closet

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 14:40:41 PST

Organizing a closet is one of the last thing we all want to do. The sorting, getting rid of old clothes, rearranging shelves, I know it seems daunting. But when you think about how much time you waste looking for lost items or searching for that one shirt you know matches perfectly with the outfit you want to wear, suddenly spending an hour or two doesn't seem that bad. Think of how that hour or two or organizing will save you many hours in the future or rummaging and endless searching.
In light of that logic, I visited Master Simplifier and owner of White Space, Cynthia Ivie. Where she taught me how to make the most of my organizational investment. With her tips and tricks, a few hours of closet organization can pay more dividends than you could imagine.

How to Find the Best Closet Organizers

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 14:13:14 PST

Choosing the right closet organizers is essential for remedying a chaotic closet, but sorting through the different organizers is as difficult as sorting through your old clothes. To make matters worse, choosing the wrong type of closet organizers can just add to the clutter in your closet as well as wasting your money. So, to prevent adding more useless debris to my closet, I visited Master Simplifier and owner of the organization firm White Space, Cynthia Ivie.
In this episode, Cynthia shows me what to look for and what to avoid when selecting the perfect closet organizers. From bins and containers to hangers, the right organizers can make all the difference.

A Colorful Way to Organize Your Files

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 07:48:23 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 40

File Organization probably isn't your favorite task, but with Master Simplifier, Cynthia Ivie's system, you may decide to give it a lower ranking on your list of tasks you hate. Cynthia owns the organization firm White Space, and has developed a file organization system that makes files easy to quickly access. Wouldn't it be nice to always know where your documents are?
In this episode, Cynthia shares the secrets to keeping your files organized. Surprisingly the only things you'll need are color files and a paper shredder.

How to Find Your Desk and Keep it Clear

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 07:04:25 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 39

Office organization overwhelms most people, but you'll no longer be one of them after watching this episode. In fact, in no time your office will be clean and tidy. But more importantly, it will stay that way.
Master Simplifier and Owner of White Space, Cynthia Ivie, taught Meghan the secrets of office organization. Her tips were refreshingly simple and easy to implement. You'll be surprised at how organized your office can be, and you won't even need any complicated office organization systems.

The Globe's Spot: Why to Own a Globe in Our Tech-Savvy World

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 10:50:53 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 38

A globe may appear as out of date and unnecessary in our tech-savvy world, but don't be fooled. Globes are still very useful and make for wonderful decorating accessories.
In this episode, Meghan visits Replogle Globes, the largest globe manufacturer in the world, to discover why globes are still relevant in a world filled with interactive maps. While talking with Terry Donovan, Replogle Globes' chief cartographer, she learns about the advantages of having a spherical map.

Going for a Global Appeal: Picking the Best Globe for Your Home

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 06:55:40 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 37

Globes are hard-working decorative accessories in the home. Demanded to be both beautiful and smart, globes add a mystique to a room while making those lesser-known countries in newspaper articles easy to find.
Because we want so much from our globes, there are many things you should consider when choosing one. To discover what those things are, Meghan visited Replogle Globes, the largest globe manufacturer in the world. While there Meghan learned about the different types of globes and why the size of the globe matters.

The Three Questions You Must Ask Your Stair Builder

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 06:39:42 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 36

Stairs are expensive and dangerous when installed incorrectly. To get your money's worth and keep your family safe, you need to hire a good stair builder. But how do you know which stair builders will produce top-notch work? That's what Meghan wanted to find out during her trip to Adam's Stair Works.
In this episode, Meghan interviews Doug Adams, the owner and president of Adam's Stair Works. He teaches her the three questions you should ask your stair builder before hiring and the answers that let you know the stair builder is a keeper.

Stair Parts 101: Putting a Part to a Name

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 10:29:32 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 35

Needing a lesson in stair parts, Meghan visit Adam's Stair Works, one of the best stair builders in the country. But while she was there she learned more than just what a gooseneck is and what the large posts on a staircase are called, Doug Adams, the president and owner of Adam's Stair Works, also teaches Meghan the different types of stair construction and how to know you're getting a quality staircase.

A Step into the Wide Variety of Staircase Styles

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 09:29:43 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 34

Staircases come in many different shapes as Meghan discovers when she visit Adams Stair Works. From straight and bent to curvy and spirals, stairs are available in almost every shape imaginable.
In this episode, you'll see numerous different types of staircases. Each type has its own personality, and finding your favorite one requires checking them all out. So don't feel guilty gawking at the staircases or dreaming of which one you want in your home.

The Straight Truth about Spiral Staircases

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 06:20:15 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 33

A spiral staircase adds beauty and interest to a home, but is surprisingly missing from most. Curious as to why the spiral staircase is not used more, Meghan visited Adams Stair Works to speak with the President and Owner, Doug Adams.
Doug teaches Meghan where and when to use a spiral staircase in addition to why a set of spiral stairs should be viewed more as a fine piece of furniture than as a way to get from one floor to another.

How to Care for Your Phalaenopsis Orchid

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 05:58:39 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 32

Orchid care is easy according to award winning orchid breeder, Dick Wells, and he should know. Wells owns the very successful company Hilltop Orchids where he grows and breeds thousands of beautiful orchids each year. One step into his greenhouse, and you'll be amazed by the seemingly endless sea of orchids in front of you. As you look closer, you'll notice that every one of Wells orchids are incredibly healthy and vivacious. How does he do it?
That's what Meghan wanted to know. So she spent an afternoon with Wells talking about how to care for orchids, and she was surprised by what she learned. While orchids look high-end, they don't require high maintenance. Isn't that wonderful.

Picking a Healthy Orchid Plant

Sun, 12 Aug 2007 07:48:38 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 31

Orchid selection takes little time, as award winning orchid breeder Dick Wells of Hilltop Orchids teaches Meghan during this episode. While in the store, it takes less then a minute to tell if that beautiful orchid is a healthy keeper or one to skip over. All you have to know are the signs to look for, which is precisely what Meghan discovers during her chat with Wells.
To make shopping for orchids even easier, print of the Orchid Checklist and take it with you the next time you go to the store.

Hickory Chairs: Hard by Nature, Rustic by Making

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 07:38:48 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 29

    In this episode, Meghan visits Old Hickory -- the leading manufacturer of rustic furniture -- to learn about hickory chairs from the company's President, Rocco Liott.
    Hickory chairs aren't all that common for a very good reason. Hickory is the hardest wood in North America, which means it's not easy to work with. But if you can find a good hickory chair, you've found a great investment. It'll be so durable, it'll last a lifetime. Just ask the Old Faithful Inn at Yellowstone National Park. The inn has been using the same Old Hickory chairs in its dining room for the last 101 years.

Capturing the Essence of a Simple Life with Rustic Furniture

Wed, 27 Jun 2007 07:22:36 PST

VIDEO EPSIODE 30

Rustic furniture may look like it's easy to make. But take a closer look. It requires just as much work as other furniture - even if it does look like a tree, which means you need to know what to look for when purchasing rustic furniture. After all, if you want your rustic furniture to make you feel relaxed and connected with nature, you're going to want a quality piece that won't wobble or fall apart, which is why Meghan headed to Old Hickory, the leading manufacturer of rustic furniture.
While there Meghan talks with the company's President, Rocco Liott, about the origins of rustic furniture and how to spot a good piece.

Creating the Perfect Kitchen Lighting Scheme

Wed, 20 Jun 2007 10:46:54 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 27

Meghan visits Kichler Lighting to discover the secrets behind creating the best kitchen lighting scheme. During her visit, lighting expert Jeff Dross shows her that lighting in a kitchen is important for two reasons: it enables you to perform the necessary kitchen tasks in your kitchen and allows you to showoff the beauty of your kitchen. If you don't install enough or the right type of kitchen lighting, you're kitchen may not look or function as well as you'd hope.
While watching the video, you'll discover that there are three types of lighting essential to great kitchen lighting schemes. After watching the video, evaluate the lighting in your kitchen with the Kitchen Lighting Checklist.

Save Money and the Environment by Switching to Fluorescent Lighting

Tue, 19 Jun 2007 08:18:27 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 28

    Fluorescent lighting has been the talk of the town lately for its "green" characteristics. To discover if the talk's been true, Meghan headed to Kichler Lighting to talk with lighting expert Jeff Dross.
    While there Dross teaches Meghan the benefits of fluorescent lighting. Easy to screw in place of your old incandescent bulbs, fluorescent bulbs are readily available at most grocery and home good stores and work in your existing light fixtures.
   But the best part? Fluorescent lighting can save you money, and in this video episode you'll learn how much money those energy -efficient bulbs can save. Not to mention, they last longer than incandescent bulbs - which means you won't have to change your light bulbs as much.

A Glimpse Inside Tudor Homes

Thu, 14 Jun 2007 12:50:07 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 25

Tudor homes often possess grand interiors filled with beautiful wood panels, stone floors, large hearths, big wooden doors and white plaster walls. To discover how those interiors were decorated, Meghan visited Stan Hywet Hall, which is considered the finest example of Tudor Revival architecture in America. During her visit Meghan discovered that tapestries and rugs were often used inside Tudor homes, among many other things.
To see how to incorporate Tudor style into your home, get the Tudor Homes Checklist.

Tudor Architecture Tutorial: A Quick Look at the Revival Style

Wed, 13 Jun 2007 14:37:07 PST

    Tudor houses possess many characteristics that are easy to identify, as Meghan learned during her trip to Stan Hywet Hall - one of the finest examples of Tudor architecture in America. Her guide, Mark Gilles, the director of Historic Structures at Stan Hywet Hall, disclosed many interesting facts about Tudor houses, including their nickname during the 1920s.
    In this video episode, you'll discover why Tudor houses in America are called Tudor revivals, when the Tudor style was popular in America, why the Tudor style was popular and what features were common on Tudor houses.

A Quick Look at Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie Style

Fri, 01 Jun 2007 06:55:02 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 24

Prairie style architecture became the first style Frank Lloyd Wright created during the early years of his career in Oak Park, Illinois. Influenced by the parts of his childhood spent on Wisconsin farms, Wright designed homes suited for a prairie environment. The horizontal nature of those homes was meant to mimic and fit in with the Prairie.
Wright designed numerous Prairie style homes, but there is one that is considered the quintessential example of Prairie style, and that home - the Robie house - is where Meghan visited to learn about the main features of Prairie style. During her visit, Karen Sweeney, the director of restoration at the Robie house, pointed out the main characteristics of Prairie style homes and taught her how to pick them out from other styles of architecture.

Inside the Robie House: Frank Lloyd Wright's Quintessential Prairie Style Home

Thu, 31 May 2007 07:52:41 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 23

The Robie House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is one of the most important structures in American architecture. The house has been called the quintessential example of Prairie Style, but what makes the Robie House so fascinating is Wright's apparent fondness for it. Threatened by demolition twice, Wright rallied to save it. The second time, even though his health was failing, Wright made a trip to the Robie House. The Robie House is the only house he designed that he ever visited to save, which makes you wonder, why was it so important to Wright? To answer that question, Meghan visited the Robie House to talk to Karen Sweeney, the director of restoration for the home.

The Early Years of Frank Lloyd Wright

Wed, 30 May 2007 08:23:21 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 21

Frank Lloyd Wright designed over 1,100 projects in his life, and almost half of them were built. Those buildings changed the way architecture was seen and made Wright one of the best architects of the 20th century, if not the best. His ground-breaking work was seen as radical at the time, but today it is praised for its forward-thinking designs.
To discover all about Wright and his life, Meghan visited the first home Wright built for himself in Oak Park, Illinois. In this video, Meghan interviews Lauren Finch of the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust. Finch took Meghan for a tour of Wright's home and told her stories from Wright's life.

Undeniably Shaker: The Three Items Characteristic of Shaker Style

Thu, 24 May 2007 15:04:20 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 20

Shaker décor can be a bit tricky to incorporate into your home considering Shaker style changes from region to region. But there are three things that are characteristically Shaker no matter which part of the country you are in: pegs, oval boxes and Shaker chairs. Using those three things in your home with give you a hands down Shaker appeal.
In this video, Meghan visits Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill to learn about those three items that typify the Shakers. You'll see examples of pegs, learn about oval boxes and get a peek of the chairs that are the definition of Shaker to many.

Shaker Furniture: Simple in Style, Functional in Form

Wed, 23 May 2007 15:18:01 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 19

Shaker furniture can best be described as simple, which Meghan learned during her visit to Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill. There Susan Hughes, the Interpretation and Education Manager at Shaker Village, explained what makes Shaker furniture, Shaker furniture — and don’t be fooled into thinking Shaker’s used clean lines for only aesthetic purposes. That lack of adornment that is characteristically Shaker was simply a byproduct of their beliefs.
In this video episode, you will see typical Shaker furniture, and discover why Shaker furniture varies from region to region. You’ll also discover a bit more about why Shaker furniture is considered the predecessor to modern style furniture.

The Guiding Principles Behind Shaker Style

Tue, 22 May 2007 15:35:46 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 18

Shaker style grew and developed as a part of the Shaker life. The Shakers did not set out to make a style of their own. The Shaker style was a byproduct of the Shakers religious beliefs.
In this video episode, Meghan visits Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill to discover the origins and characteristics of Shaker style, and she finds it all comes down to simplicity, function and order. Those qualities often give Shaker style a plain look, but as I learned plain doesn't mean ugly. In the case of the Shakers, plain is beautiful.

How to Make Beautiful Floral Arrangements

Thu, 17 May 2007 12:02:48 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 17

    Flower arrangements are one of Meghan's absolute favorite decorations, but good ones can be hard to find. Not to mention, most people can't splurge on new flower arrangements each week.
    So in this episode Meghan headed to H.J. Benken's Florist and Greenhouse to discover how to make flower arrangements on your own. While there, floral designer Vickie Wenstrup showed her the tricks floral designers use when making floral arrangements.
    Wenstrup's advice is both and practical. While your first attempt may not be a masterpiece -- Meghan's only scored a B minus, after a little practice your arrangements may rival those at your local florist shop.

Secrets for Keeping Cut Flowers Looking Fresh

Wed, 16 May 2007 18:04:54 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 16

Flowers are one of the most common decorations in a home. While they're easy to use when decorating -- flowers look good anywhere, they do require a bit of maintenance to keep them looking fresh.
In this episode, Meghan visits H.J. Benken Florist and Greenhouse to discover how to elongate the life of fresh cut flowers. Floral designer Vickie Wenstrup teaches Meghan the correct way to care for flowers and even offers a few unconventional tips for those times when you run out of flower food.

Turn Forgotten Furniture into Stunning Focal Points with Paint

Tue, 15 May 2007 15:41:38 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 15

Painted furniture is nice option if you're tired of wood, and an even better option if you're on a budget. In this video, Meghan visits artist Heidi Shannon to discover how to turn old furniture into stunning painted furniture pieces. While at her studio, Heidi taught me what to look for when finding a piece of furniture to paint and gave me some great ideas on how to decorate painted furniture.
For instructions for how to paint furniture, get the Painted Furniture Checklist.

The Basics of Adding a Custom Wine Cellar to Your Home

Thu, 10 May 2007 16:34:18 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 14

Wine Cellars add to the beauty of your home. Both impressive and luxurious, wine cellars are the ultimate form of wine storage. But unlike wine cabinets, wine cellars don't come pre-made in a cardboard box. They require in-depth planning, and to discover what you need to know when building a wine cellar, Meghan went straight to the experts at Wine Cellar Innovations.
During my visit to Wine Cellar Innovations, Meghan learned about the type of doors, lights and floors you should use in wine cellars in addition to what items you should avoid.

Beautiful Refrigerated Furniture for Your Wine

Wed, 09 May 2007 18:50:24 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 13

    Wine cabinets bring style to your home while keeping your wine at the perfect temperature and humidity. Both functional and stylish, wine cabinets are a great choice for a wine collector with a small to medium sized collection. To see the other benefits of wine cabinets, watch the video to the left.
   In this video episode, Meghan visits Wine Cellar Innovations to talk with the company's Sales Manager Jack Diener. While there she discovers why wine cabinets are ideal for those who move often, and got to experience how quiet they are first hand.

Best Wine Storage for Beginner Wine Collectors

Tue, 08 May 2007 17:03:51 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 12

Wine racks offer a simplified version of wine storage. Unlike the other three types of wine storage - wine refrigerators, wine cabinets and wine cellars - wine racks lack a refrigeration unit to keep wine at the perfect temperature and humidity. But does that really matter? Do you really need to buy the more expensive types of wine storage with refrigeration units?
Find out in this video episode where Meghan interviews Jack Diener from Wine Cellar Innovations about who should use a wine rack and what you need to know before purchasing one.

Find the Right Wine Storage for Your Lifestyle

Mon, 07 May 2007 15:10:08 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 11

    Wine storage is offered in four main types: wine racks, wine refrigerators, wine cabinets and wine cellars. But with so many options, how do you know which type of wine storage is right for you?
    In this video episode, Meghan visits Wine Cellar Innovations to discover the advantages and disadvantages of each type of wine storage. While there, she learns that each type of wine storage fits a certain lifestyle, which means the key to choosing the right one is knowing what you need.
    To gain a better understanding of the conditions wine needs to stay at its peak, watch the Wine Video.

Keeping Your Wine in the Optimum Conditions

Sun, 06 May 2007 15:21:30 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 10

Wine is quite possibly the most high-maintenance beverage available. Unlike other beverages that you can store in your refrigerator, wine must be stored in special conditions. And don't shrug them off. If you fail to treat your wine properly, it can turn into vinegar; and that bitter taste will be a highly unpleasant shock if you're expecting the sweet flavor of wine.
To learn all about wine's storage needs, Meghan visits Wine Cellar Innovations. While there, the VP of Operations, Tony Wilke, the Sales Director, Jack Diener, walk Meghan through the basics of wine storage. Meghan discovers the right temperature and humidity for your wine, how long you can leave your wine at room temperature without it turning bitter and why you should never put wine in your refrigerator.

Understanding the Beauty of Glass Blowing

Sat, 28 Apr 2007 07:49:17 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 9

Glass blowing is an art form meant to be watched, not just admired. Both intense and beautiful, the glass blowing process keeps the viewer in awe as the artist shapes a molten piece of glass into a stunning vessel.
During Meghan's visit to Louisville Glassworks, she watched artist Casey Hyland make a glass pendant light. Needless to say, she was completely amazed. Glass blowing might be one of the most fascinating arts to watch, so make sure you pay close attention to while watching. In this video episode, you will see the tremendous amount of skill, patience and guts it takes to blow glass.

The Art and Craft of Flameworking

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 07:38:13 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 7

Flameworking produces everything from decorative glass bottle stoppers to beautiful glass sculptures. Many of the smaller decorative glass objects you see in stores are made by flameworking artists, and in this video, you will get to watch as flameworking artist Ben Taylor from Louisville Glassworks creates a horses head out of plain sticks of clear glass. The transformation is unbelievable, and Ben's candor about the subject helps to inspire an awe for the art of flameworking.
While watching the flameworking video, pay close attention to how quickly Ben works. It will give you a newfound appreciation for all of your decorative glass items.

A Simple Guide for Buying Glass for Your Home

Tue, 24 Apr 2007 07:22:11 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 6

    Decorative glass should not be an impulse buy, even if it is absolutely gorgeous. And we know how hard it is to resist. But often, those pieces we find stunning turn out to be impractical and end up hidden on a shelf or hiding in the attic, which is not a suitable place for a work of art.
    To keep from wasting money and insulting artists, Meghan visited Louisville Glassworks to discover the smart way to shop for decorative glass, and while there Marilee Burnside, director of tours and activities at Louisville Glassworks, gave her some valuable tips on how to pick out the perfect piece of decorative glass for your home.

Which Type of Decorative Glass Fits You?

Tue, 24 Apr 2007 06:57:49 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 5

Decorative glass comes in three main types: blown glass, flameworked glass and architectural glass. In this video Marilee Burnside, director of tours and events at Louisville Glassworks, explains the difference between the three different types of decorative glass. You'll get to see a brief overview of how each type of decorative glass is made and the skill it takes to produce those works of art.

What Makes Victorian Decor Victorian

Thu, 12 Apr 2007 07:17:53 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 2

Victorian décor is typically stereotyped as being dark and fussy. And while some of that may be true, interior designer and owner of the Eckhart house, Gretchen Figaretti, set the record straight and showed Meghan that Victorian décor is better termed "lively" and "ornate."
In the video, Figaretti provides tips on how to incorporate Victorian décor into your home. She discusses what type of furniture, colors and decorative items to choose when looking for Victorian décor. Figaretti also gives a few suggestions on how to decorate a Victorian kitchen.

Understanding the Opulence of Victorian Interiors

Wed, 11 Apr 2007 07:29:30 PST

VIDEO EPISODE 1

Victorian interiors are anything but modest. Elaborate and showy, Victorian interiors were decorated to impress.
In this episode, Meghan visits three homes in Victorian Wheeling, West Virginia: The Hess House, The John List House and The Eckhart House. During the house tours Meghan discovers why the Victorians were so eager to impress and what made the Victorian style possible.

Bringing the Beach to Your Bathroom

Fri, 09 Feb 2007 13:15:31 PST

A beach theme bathroom can be luxurious, relaxing or fun depending on the accessories and colors you choose, and in this video, Meghan Carter shows you what to avoid and where to start when decorating a beach theme bathroom. You will also see colors and materials that work well in a beach theme bathroom.

Give Walls a Fresh Look with Sponged on Texture

Tue, 30 Jan 2007 09:13:04 PST

Sponge painting is the easiest of the faux finishing techniques. With a paint covered sponge in hand, you simply dot your walls with the sponge to create a beautiful textured pattern. The end result is somewhat coarse, uneven pattern perfect for casual rooms.
In this episode, Meghan shows you how to sponge paint and the materials you will need when sponge painting.

Adding Sass to Your Glass

Thu, 18 Jan 2007 18:27:49 PST

    Glass etching enables you to create high-end designs on a shoe string budget. Within minutes you can create beautifully etched glass vases, jars and even panes for cabinet doors. Don't believe it can be that simple? Watch as Meghan effortlessly paints on the etching cream and then washes it off to reveal beautifully etched glass.
    Unlike other decorating projects, etching glass is very easy and takes little time. Just be careful about the fumes and toxic nature of the glass etching cream.
    For written instructions for how to etch glass, get the Glass Etching Checklist.

Caulking Your Way to a Flawless Finish

Wed, 17 Jan 2007 10:18:25 PST

Caulk is one of those must have items when building or remodeling a home. Caulk fills the holes between gaps between your woodwork, walls, bathroom fixtures or countertops, making your home appear flawless and beautiful. By quickly caulking between the unsightly gaps, you can greatly improve the look of your home.
In this video, Meghan demonstrates how easy it is to caulk. With a little time and inexpensive tools, you can hide all of the gaps in your home.

Painting Hideous Ceramic Tile May End Ugly

Thu, 04 Jan 2007 15:16:05 PST

Painting ceramic tile isn't the best idea in the world. It's much better to save up some money and buy new or used tile. But if you've decided that painting ceramic tile is your best option, then watch this video where Meghan explains where it's okay to paint ceramic tile and provides step-by-step instructions for how to get the job done right.
To get written instructions for how to paint ceramic tile, get the Painting Ceramic Tile Checklist.

Picture Hanging Perfection: Getting Those Pictures on Your Walls

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 14:46:30 PST

Hanging pictures adds fun and personality to a room, but the actual job isn't the best task in the world. But don't worry, you'll become a picture hanging pro after watching this video where Meghan demonstrates the secrets to hanging pictures with ease.
For extra help on how to hang pictures, get the Hanging Pictures Checklist or read the Hanging Pictures Tips.

Instructions for Making Beautiful Bows

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 14:10:15 PST

Bows look beautiful on gifts, wreaths and floral arrangements, and in this video Meghan demonstrates how to make three different types of bows: a formal bow, an informal bow and a double box.
To see written instructions for how to make the bows, read the How to Make a Bow story or get the How to Make a Bow Checklist.

Give Cabinets Character with a Coat of Glaze

Wed, 13 Dec 2006 19:03:42 PST

Glazing kitchen cabinets makes your old kitchen cabinets look even older -- in a good way. The glaze forms a thin layer over the existing paint or stain giving your cabinets an antiqued look. In this video, host Meghan Carter demonstrates how to glaze kitchen cabinets or any cabinets in your home.
Meghan gives step-by-step instructions for how to achieve the antiqued look. You'll be surprised by how easy it is to glaze kitchen cabinets. For written instructions on how glaze kitchen cabinets, get the Glazing Kitchen Cabinets Checklist or read the Glazing Kitchen Cabinets Article.

Stenciling Made Easy

Tue, 12 Dec 2006 08:45:42 PST

Stencil patterns are the secret to having detailed patterns on your walls, furniture and cabinets. You don't have to be an artist to use a stencil. All you need is a little time, patience and the right technique. In this video, Meghan demonstrates an easy way to stencil using the dry brush technique.
After watching this Stencil Video, you'll be a stencil pro in no time. Just remember, patience is key when stenciling. For detailed instructions for how to stencil, read the Stencil story or get the Stencil Checklist.

Create Custom Stencil Designs for Your Home

Mon, 11 Dec 2006 10:52:25 PST

    Knowing how to make stencils comes in handy when you can't find a stencil that fits with your decorating style. By making your own stencils, you can have the exact pattern that would look perfect in your room.
    In the video, Meghan demonstrates how to make a stencil using a pattern as a guide. When you make your own stencils, you can use wallpaper, fabric, books -- anything with a pattern on it for inspiration. If you are artistically inclined, you can draw the pattern straight on the stencil material. But if you're not artistic, don't worry. Meghan shows how to trace a pattern when making a stencil.
    For written instructions for how to make a stencil, read the How to Make Stencils story or get the How to Make Stencils Checklist.

Bring Your Cabinets Back to Life with a Fresh Coat of Paint

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 18:56:23 PST

Painting kitchen cabinets breathes life into an old kitchen without breaking the bank. If your kitchen could use an update, watch as Meghan rolls up her sleeves and shows how to paint cabinets. You'll see that painting kitchen cabinets is fairly easy. It just takes time.
Before starting your cabinet painting project, fill out the Painting Kitchen Cabinets Checklist. It will help you estimate how long it will take you to paint your kitchen cabinets. You may be surprised at how much time it will take.

Give Plain Switch Plates a Makeover with an Extra Scrap of Wallpaper

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 14:04:47 PST

Switch plates are found everywhere in our homes. Second to the doorknob, you don't interact with any other part of your home more. So why settle for plain white or beige switch plates. You really have no excuse, especially when it's so easy to dress up any switch plate. And to make your job even easier, in this video Meghan Carter demonstrates one way to convert switch plates from boring into beautiful with just a scrap of wallpaper.