Tell Your Home’s Story with Cultured Stone

Add Metro Mojo with Cultured Stone Whether you’re moving into a new space or adding onto your current home, improving its aesthetics is key. It’s important to end up with a look and style you love, but it all has to tell your home’s unique story!

Simplistic spaces evoke calm feelings, but the opposite approach has its own benefits. One of the hottest trends in home design nowadays is “Maximalism”. From a design standpoint, it means more is more!

Mastering Maximalist design involves more than using quirky art or wild colors. But incorporating this style lets you get bold and creative as well! Your own design journey should be personal and evocative.

If you’re looking to add a touch of Maximalist metro mojo, using Cultured Stone is a great place to start! These cleverly crafted cultured stone veneers are a great way to give your home an impressive and stylish look.

Make Your Home Your Own

Cultured Stone Maximalism

When you start designing, the first thing to consider is what you want the finished product to look like. What inspires you? Are there important details that you wish to display? What tells the story of your life and your creativity in the most elaborate way possible? The beauty of Maximalism is that it allows your space to be as unique and expressive as you are.
 
This is your chance to add those interesting design ideas that you’ve dreamed about! You’ve always wanted a cheetah print couch and a funky cobalt blue accent wall? Do it! This style works at its best when you combine traditional elements with funky pops of color. The end result is a room that is the personification of “you”!

Creating Trendy Together Spaces

Trendy spaces

There’s something magical about the communal component of urban living – no matter where. It’s time for your fireplace surround to soar like a within a historic brownstone home. Your wall between the den and the kitchen can function as an indoor window. There are many little touches that can bring any space together in a modern and stylish way. Cultured Stone makes it simple to recreate any urban and trendy looks! Even better, these manufactured stone veneers can be colored to match whatever the tone of whatever room you’re adding onto.

Embrace Your Outdoor Space

Cultured Stone Veneers Outdoors

 

Whether your home has a rooftop escape or not, you should make the most of your outdoor space too. In addition, you can do it with any sort of space – even if it’s shared with neighbors!

You can spruce up your outdoor space with floral arrangements, in pots if needed. We also recommend adding murals or other artwork that reminds you of city parks. You can even add strand lights to help enhance that hip metro feel. If your backyard isn’t shared and you have extra space, you have an even better option. Try building a secret garden to give you a “private” feeling to remind you of other secluded gardens. Personal walkways or garden walls with Cultured Stone are the perfect final touch!

Don’t forget to make sure your outdoor space is fit for entertaining guests! A backyard getaway or rooftop escape is the perfect place to gather after sundown. Make it great for an evening under the stars by creating a conversation space. Be sure to equip it with lovely seating options around a Cultured Stone firepit or firebowl. With all the sizes and styles available, you can craft your own magical space to make lifelong memories!

Wherever you call home, whether it’s urban, suburban, or something more – it should match the needs of you and your family. By adding onto your home with Cultured Stone, you can create a warm and personalized space for anyone. Contact our talented team today to learn how we can help improve your home!

 

Source: Cultured Stone

Calming Paint Colors from Benjamin Moore

Create Harmony with Ben Moore's 2021 Color of the Year!Are you looking to cover your walls with calming paint colors? Benjamin Moore has color choices that will make you feel even more at home.

“Soft power, silence, pause.” These are some of the words that Benjamin Moore uses to describe the blend of blue-green and gray that is Aegean Teal 2136-40. This intriguing mid-tone creates natural harmony and looks just as amazing in the kitchen as it does in the bedroom, den or home office.

Want calming paint colors? The entire Ben Moore “Color Trends Collection” is designed to nourish the spirit with the comforting, sun-baked hues. It also helps us celebrate the simple pleasures in life—like “the faded rumple of linen sheets in the morning and perfectly ripened fruits on the windowsill. The twelve hues in the palette radiate warmth and well-being. These are colors that make your home feel even more like home. Settle in.”

Get your painting project started!

2021 color of the year

So, go on… Take a moment to reflect and reset. Intriguing, balanced, and deeply soothing, the Benjamin Moore Color, Aegean Teal 2136-40, creates natural harmony. Check out the full video introduction to this calming blue-green and gray combination:

This isn’t your ordinary mid-tone teal. The slight hint of bluish-green evokes calm and harmony, while making yellows, whites and beige tones POP!

Reclaim Your Ease
color of the year: Aegean Teal 2136-40

Pair Aegean Teal 2136-40 with Muslin OC-12 to beautiful effect, like in the cozy bedroom above. Muslin OC-12 is part of the Off-White Color collection. Inherently sophisticated and endlessly versatile, the Off-White collection offers subtle nuances of whites that suit tranquil, serene environments as well as creates color-enhancing accents for dynamic spaces.

Tip: Less is more when working with this subtle teal. Surround Aegean Teal with whites and off-whites to allow its soft colors to really sing.

Work in Harmonyaegean teal cabinets

Create a home office that truly inspires productivity! These soft Aegean Teal 2136-40 cabinets create a sense of balance to help you work better and feel less distracted. It pairs well light gray walls like Benjamin Moore’s Foggy Morning, or Gray Cashmere.

Tip: Wicker baskets, metallic hardware and lighting fixtures complete this cozy and homey look.

 

Get Your Interior Painting Project Done!

Painting the rooms of your home can have tremendous impact, and it’s a great family project with a modest price tag. Strive for a balance of linear elements and colors, and don’t be afraid to ask the experts at GNH Lumber for guidance and tips along the way. Get your painting project started!

Sources: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/color-overview/color-palettes/color-of-the-year-2021

Pick Your Perfect Ben Moore Paint Color Online

Pick Your Perfect Ben Moore Paint Color Online!

Pick Your Perfect Ben Moore Paint Color OnlineIf you’re looking for the perfect indoor project to get the whole family involved, considering putting a fresh coat of beautiful paint on your interior walls! Whether it’s the kitchen, bedroom, hallway, living room, bathroom or den, a gorgeous splash of color will completely reinvent the same boring old space. And the best part is, you can choose the perfect Benjamin Moore paint color online! With Ben Moore’s suite of Paint Color Picking Tools, you can match any mood, style or whimsical idea to create the palette your family will love.

Find a great color to match any room, upload photos of your actual space and test any Ben Moore color on the walls, or search popular and trendy palettes — all with the click of a button!

Get your painting project started!

Here’s the list of tools to help you pick your perfect Ben Moore paint color online:

Personal Color Viewer:

Personal Color Viewer

If you create a Ben Moore account, you can upload your own photo and then visualize any color combination you want! In a rush or don’t want to register for an account? No problem! Choose one of their photos to get the process started quickly and effortlessly:

Choose a Ben Moore Photo

 

Color by Family:

Choose a Color Family

If you have a general sense of the color you want to choose, exploring “color families” is a great way to find darker or lighter hues, more or less saturated hues, and a host of options in between!

After choosing a family of colors (in this case, vibrant oranges and orange-yellows), you can then select the exact Benjamin Color and view that color in the room of your choice:Choose a Color Family - Detail

 

 

Color a Room:

Color a Room

The Color a Room tool allow your to choose from a list of interior rooms like living room, dining room and entryway, and then select any Benjamin Moore color (or color combinations) to preview the finished look! Here’s an example of a living room in a warm beige hue:

Color a Room in Beige

Other tools to try online:

  • Color Collections: explore popular Benjamin Moore colors, such as Classics, Historical Colors, Americas Colors, Off-White Collection and more!
  • Search All Colors: looking for not just any red but just the right cinnamon and rose petal red? The search all colors tool is just right for you. Type in any color and see every option from Benjamin moore.

Get Your Interior Painting Project Done!

Painting the rooms of your home can have tremendous impact, and it’s a great family project with a modest price tag. Strive for a balance of linear elements and colors, and don’t be afraid to ask the experts at GNH Lumber for guidance and tips along the way. Get your painting project started!

Sources: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/color-overview/find-your-color

4 Creative Kitchen Design Ideas to Try

4 Creative Kitchen Design Ideas to Try

4 Creative Kitchen Design Ideas to Try

Want to completely transform the way your home looks and functions this year? Because the kitchen is the most dynamic, gathering-oriented and useful room in the home, a kitchen redesign is an easy way to create a big impact. And did we mention that it increases your home’s resale value?  It’s a win-win!

No matter the budget or style, there’s a great kitchen solution waiting to fit your family’s tastes and needs. Consider these creative kitchen design ideas when planning your kitchen remodel. And, when in doubt, don’t forget to ask the kitchen design experts at GNH Lumber for guidance and tips. Schedule a free consultation.

So, what are some unique ideas for a fresh kitchen design? Here are our top 4 picks:

1. Two Distinct Counter Islands

Creative Kitchen Design Ideas - Two Counter Islands
Two distinct islands featuring Cambria Brittanicca™ and Roxwell™ pair with black cabinetry and gray hardwood floors.  (Image source: Cambriausa.com)

When it comes to kitchen islands, sometimes more is more. According to Cambria, if your kitchen is large enough to accommodate this design, “a double island layout may be the answer to all your prep, entertaining, and family dining needs.”

Double islands are functional and stylish, and a good alternative to one large island. They can help you create distinct zones for food preparation and dining, as well as facilitate traffic flow. Typically, in a double-island kitchen, the outer kitchen island is reserved for seating while the inner kitchen island is optimized for prep with a sink, cooktop, or both. If your friends and family spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, double islands may be for you. Having two distinct stations makes it easier to entertain a large group, create a meal together as a family, or gather for games.

In the image above, the Brittanicca island is used for food preparation, while the Roxwell island is designed for casual dining. Roxwell’s shimmer is accentuated with metallic hardware and lighting. A matching Brittanicca fireplace in the living room carries Cambria’s luxury design throughout the home.

 

2. Chic Meets Rustic

Creative Kitchen Design Ideas - Chic Meets Rustic

Highlight your kitchen’s focal point, like this stunning gold and black range, by opting for rustic open shelving.  (Image source: AmberInteriorDesign.com)

The black and gold range is a glamourous focal point, which is accented well by rustic, wood open shelves. Their neutral tones and minimalist design ensure that they play a supporting role to the more dramatic features in the kitchen. They also provide an interesting counter-balance to the colorful cabinets below.

When planning your kitchen redesign, think about which appliance, structural feature or other glamourous element of the kitchen you wish to highlight or make a focal point. That way, you can plan accordingly so another aspect of the kitchen design doesn’t steal away its thunder.

When trying to “de-emphasize” a kitchen design element, a good practice is to make use of neutral tones, simple patterns and less flashy textures.

 

3. Create a Working Style Kitchen

Creative-Kitchen-Design-Ideas---Working-Kitchen-Style

(Image sources: BenjaminMoore.com and Omegacabinetry.com)

As prepping and cooking becomes more and more a part of the entertaining process itself, restaurant-style kitchens are enjoying a rise in popularity. These kitchens often feature vast countertop surfaces, several large, deep-basin sinks, and industrial-style lighting fixtures in metallic finishes.

Get creative and add whimsical elements like rustic chalkboards for making quick recipe notes, large wooden cutting boards on display, exposed kitchen knives attached to accent walls with magnet strips. Then bring the look together with open-shelving that displays potted herbs, jars of seasonings and infused oils to help create a utilitarian feel.

You can go even farther by establishing separate work zones for prep work, sautéing, baking and clean-up.

 

4. Use Color in Unexpected Places

Creative Kitchen Design Ideas - Color in Unexpected Places

(Image source: BenjaminMoore.com)

The best way to change up your kitchen with a relatively small investment? Consider a well-placed coat of paint! The creative use of paint goes a long way towards redefining a space. Paint the back of your cabinets a fun color, like teal, to help them stand out from the wall, and brighten up your kitchen.

For a long time, white has dominated kitchen design. But, according to Benjamin Moore, “it may have to share the trend spotlight as pale or muted gray, blue and green cabinet colors shake things up a bit.

“If you’re not ready for a complete cabinet overhaul, consider a fresh coat of paint on lower cabinets or highlight an island with a different color. This will add some visual interest and a layer of detail, especially when the primary cabinet color is white and you use a deeper color on an island, desk area or banquette.”

Sources: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/project-ideas-inspiration/interiors/kitchen-ideas-inspiration/kohler; https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/project-ideas-inspiration/interiors/kitchen-ideas-inspiration; https://refineanddefine.cambriausa.com/5-cambria-combinations-we-love/; https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/kitchens/g2190/open-shelving-roundup; https://refineanddefine.cambriausa.com/top-5-kitchen-layouts/

How to Build a Rustic Bench

DIY: How to Build a Rustic Bench

How to Build a Rustic Bench

Handmade furniture adds beauty and functionality to any home. Plus, a custom look is sure to impress friends and family.

This time of year, it’s convenient to have a bench next to the door of a mudroom or entryway for all that pulling on (or taking off) of winter boots, socks, hats and gloves.

And here’s the good news: you don’t have to be a master carpenter to build this simple, rustic bench! Just follow this step-by-step guide from Shanty to Chic based on the Providence Bench design by Ana White. It costs at little as $20-$50 and can be completed in one afternoon with the help of a handy Kreg Jig® tool (available at GNH)! A Kreg Jig® makes it easy for anyone, even a beginning DIYer, to create rock-solid wood projects and to make strong, long-lasting repairs.

Here’s what you’ll need to pick up at GNH Lumber to build your rustic bench:

Materials:

  • 5 – 2×4 @ 8 feet long – cut longest boards first
  • Optional 1×3 under bench supports
  • 1 ¼ inch screws
  • 2 1/2-inch Pocket Hole Screws
  • Wood glue
  • Finish nails
  • 120 grit sandpaper
  • Wood filler
  • Wood conditioner or primer (as needed)
  • Damp cloth
  • Safety glasses

Tools:

  • Tape Measure
  • Speed square
  • Kreg Jig®
  • Drill
  • Sander

Rustic Bench dimensions

Cut List (dimensions shown above):

  • 2 – 2×4 @ 14”
  • 4 – 2×4 @ 15 1/4″ – both ends beveled at 10 degrees off square, ends ARE parallel
  • 2 – 2×4 @ 12 1/2″ – long point to long point, both ends cut at 10 degrees off square, NOT parallel
  • 1 – 2×4 @ 34”
  • 1 – 2×4 @ 38”
  • 2 – 2×4 @ 13 3/8” (both ends cut at 45 degrees off square, ends ARE parallel)
  • 4 – 2×4 @ 54”

 

Build Ends on Rustic bench

Step 1) Build ends

Build two ends as shown above. They are identical. Use the Kreg Jig® on 1 1/2″ setting with 2 1/2″ pocket holes, or countersink screws with glue. Here’s are our suggestions for pocket hole placement.

This is the bottom inside of the legs:

Build Ends of Rustic Bench

This is the top of the legs:

Top of Rustic bench legs


2) Add the stretchers:

Rustic Bench stretchers


3) And then the cross supports:

Rustic Bench cross supports

 

 

4) Add the seat boards:

Rustic Bench seat boards

NOTE: Use the Kreg Jig® to plank the top of the bench before attaching it to the base.

You can leave a small 1/8″ gap between boards for water drainage if desired.

Add seat boards to rustic bench

 

This is the back of each of diagonal piece.  Tip: Don’t worry about covering the pocket holes if they will be facing a wall:

back of rustic bench

Attach bottom piece like this:

bottom piece of rustic bench

Use 1 1/4″ screws through the bottom into the top planks to attach the seat, and don’t forget to use wood glue on all joints:

rustic bench bottom

5) Finishing touches!

Finished rustic benchFill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed.

When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Sand all surfaces thoroughly. Vacuum to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

Use primer or wood conditioner as needed. It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. The bench shown has a coat of Rust-Oleum Ultimate Wood Stain in Dark Walnut.

 

That’s it!  This rustic, entryway bench is now ready to enjoy all season long! Questions about this project or another DIY-project on your list? Stop in to your local GNH Lumber for tips, guidance and recommendations!

 

Stylish Painting Techniques

9 Stylish Techniques for Painting Living Rooms

Stylish Techniques for Painting Living Rooms

Does your living room need a fresh look? Are you thinking about painting your living room but don’t want to go with the same, boring solid walls of solid color?

Don’t worry – there are many creative and out-of-the-box ways to approach your living room painting project. And we’ve gathered up a few stylish and fun living room painting ideas you can try yourself.

Painting is one of the most amazing tools for creating a whole new living space quickly and at minimal cost! It’s a fun weekend project for the whole family. Beyond a rainbow of colors, sheens and finishes, there are also a wide range of textures, effects, stenciling and other creative techniques you can use to really make your living room walls pop.

The only question is: which stylish technique for painting living rooms will you pick?

Get your painting project started!

1. Ombre Walls

Ombre Walls

Image source: www.lushome.com/20-modern-wall-painting-ideas-watercolor-ombre-painting-effects/144403

Watercolor painting, or “Ombre” painting, is a beautiful decorating trend that can personalize modern interiors. It gives the effect of one color melting softly into another color, like a sunset sky. Follow these step-by-step directions from Spruce.com to make sure you get the look just right. This is a really satisfying way to create visual depth in your living room, and lend an airy, ethereal mood.

Here’s what you’ll need to pick up at GNH:

  • Masking tape
  • Two colors of Benjamin Moore Interior paint
  • Disposable measuring cup
  • Five-gallon bucket (for mixing)
  • Large mixing stick
  • Three large paint trays
  • Three medium-sized paint rollers 
  • Small paintbrush 
  • Several large paintbrushes

 

2. Stenciling

Paint Stenciling

Image Source: http://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/living-and-dining-rooms/how-to-stencil-a-focal-wall

Break out of the constraints of solid walls of color with stencils! With an endless supply of stencils available, plus, the ability to create custom stencils of your own, the sky’s the limit when it comes to designs.

If you want to create a repeating pattern—or even an entire wall mural—but don’t want to test your freehand artistic abilities, a stencil should be your tool of choice. It’s fun to involve the whole family in choosing just the right stencil pattern to create a design you love. You can stencil a whole wall or just a border to create a range of effects.

 

Here’s what you’ll need to pick up at GNH:

 

3. Rag Rolling

Image source: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.DIYWallPaintMotif.Skadoosh

Rag rolling is a paint technique that’s considered “country finish.” Use this simple method on an accent wall to create a focal point, or go bold on all four walls.

To create the rag rolling look, first paint your walls with an overall base color. Allow it to fully dry. Then use a crumpled rag to apply a darker or lighter glaze color mixture over it. You simply roll the rag over the wall in random directions.

Here’s what you’ll need to pick up at GNH:

  • Painter’s tape
  • Base coat of Benjamin Moore Interior paint 
  • Top coat of lighter or darker paint glaze
  • 2 large paint trays 
  • Several large rags
  • Paint brushes
  • Paint rollers

 

4. Sponging

Sponging

Image source: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-sponge-paint-wall

Sponging, which is like rag rolling, is another way to create a textured wall that works well with many decorating styles. It’s easy really to do too! Just paint your walls with your desired base coat to get started. Once dry, use a natural sea sponge or sponge roller to dab on your desired top color in random, slightly overlapping patterns.

 

 

3. Strié, Dragging or Linen Look

Dragging Painting Technique

Image source: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-create-faux-fabric-effect-paint

The dragging, or “Strié linen weave” painting technique is a great way to add texture to a modern, contemporary, or very eclectic space. It’s also easy to create by dragging a coarse brush through a tinted glaze in section. First, mix your satin base coat color of Benjamin Moore Interior Paint and glaze, then apply the paint/glaze mixture on the wall in sections, dragging your wallpaper brush over the wet glaze vertically and or horizontally. The idea is to create the look of a linen weave. It will take some time but the look is stunning.

 

What you’ll need to pick up at GNH:

  • Paint tray
  • 2″ and 4″ china bristle brushes
  • Paint pad
  • Rags
  • Water bottle
  • Benjamin Moore latex glaze
  • Base coat of Benjamin Moore Interior paint, eggshell sheen 
  • Top coat of Benjamin Moore Interior paint

 

4. Bold Accent Walls

accent wall

Image source: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/project-ideas-inspiration/interiors/living-room-ideas-inspiration

If you aren’t brave enough to paint the whole room with bright colors, why not consider a bold accent wall? This is a great way to introduce a pop of color, create a focal wall, or to add depth and texture to the space. You can use a focal wall to showcase artwork, photographs or to direct traffic down a hallway or up the staircase. You can also break up a smaller room into zones with a well-placed wall of color.

Here’s what you’ll need to pick up at GNH:

subway tile backsplash

DIY: How to Install a Subway Tile Backsplash

subway tile backsplashSubway tile backsplashes are a growing trend in kitchens and baths and can make for a gorgeous, clean finish.

By taking on some of the work yourself during your kitchen or bath remodel, you can save money and have fun in the process! Installing a subway tile backsplash is a simple project for any DIYer.

Download our free kitchen planning guide.

In this DIY, we’ll help you learn how to install a kitchen or bath subway tile backsplash in 7 simple steps:

Materials & Tools

  • Subway tiles
  • Tile spacers
  • Tile saw
  • Grout
  • Grout sealer
  • Wall tile mastic or adhesive
  • Notched trowel
  • Squeegee or tile float
  • Sponge
  • Level

 

7 Easy Steps to Installing a Subway Tile Backsplash

Step 1: Apply the Mastic

Cover the surrounding area to protect adjacent surfaces.

Begin by applying the thin-set adhesive or mastic to the wall using a notched trowel while tilted at about a 45-degree angle, moving in the same direction. Use a thinner notch with this adhesive so you don’t have build-up and unevenness behind the tile itself. Create consistent ridges of the adhesive on the wall. Only apply as much adhesive as you can cover in 10 or 15 minutes.

Smooth over or knock down the thin-set to get rid of the comb marks. Otherwise, you’ll see the comb marks through the tile. The trick is to do this without changing the depth of the thin-set on the wall. Use spacers to make sure the tiles are set in a uniform pattern.

 

Step 2: Set the Tile

Set the tile into the adhesive. Install any border tile first, then position the sheets of subway tile on the wall next to the border. Align your outer lower tile flush with the edge of the countertop and press into the mastic. Work horizontally, placing your second tile next to your first and adding 2 tile spacers in between them.

Clean out any mastic that was squeezed in between the tile (a toothpick or a knife will work). This will make it easier for you in the long-run.

 

Step 3: Cut Your Tile

Once you are done with the first row, you’ll start on the second row. Remember, you’re installing subway tile so you’ll want them to be staggered. You can cut your tiles in half using your tile saw.

 

Step 4: Tackling an Obstacle

When you’re working around an obstacle such as an outlet, measure the distance between the electrical outlet and the last laid tile. Subtract the length of your space (most likely 1/8 of an inch), and then mark a tile for cutting.

Cut the tile along your marked line. A tile wet saw makes this project much quicker and easier with better results than other tile cutting methods. You’ll want your tile to be hidden under the switch plates, so make your tile as close the electrical outlet as you can. Use a level to make sure you’re on track and tiling in a straight line.

Step 5: Let it Sit

Once the tiles are installed, let the mastic set up overnight.

 

Step 6: Add the Grout

Once the mastic has dried completely, remove the tile spacers. It’s now time to add the grout!

Tape off any edges you don’t want grout to go, including cabinets, outlets and walls.

Mix the grout according to the package. The consistency should be similar to peanut butter.

Using a tile float, apply the grout to the backsplash. Use the same 45-degree angle to work the grout into all the crevices. Work in 2-feet to 3-feet spaces.

When you spread the grout on with the float, you’ll want to apply pressure into the tile spaces themselves so you are squeezing the grout completely into the spaces to prevent cracking and flaking over time. Run the grout line in multiple directions.

 

Step 7: Sponge Off the Grout

Once you have applied the grout to the tile spaces, it’s time to sponge off the grout from the tile themselves. Wet the sponge with water and ring out most of the water.

Begin wiping down the grout with the sponge. It’s a messy job, so you’re going to have to ring out the sponge quite a few times.

Get the tiles mostly cleaned of grout and then let it sit. Once the gout has dried completely, you’ll be able to totally clean the tiles. Make sure you let it sit before completely wiping off the grout or else you will begin to pull the grout out of the tile spaces!

Use the terry cloth side of your sponge for your final wipe-down before allowing the grout to dry completely. You’ll want to wipe down your grout about 5 times before letting it dry completely.

Step 8: Admire Your Hard Work

Now that you’re done, step back and admire your hard work!

Allow at least four hours for the grout to cure.

Congratulations! You’re an expert at installing subway tiles! Now get to work and make your kitchen or bathroom look gorgeous.

 

Kids Bedroom Paint

11 Fun Ways to Paint a Kid’s Bedroom

Kids Bedroom Paint

Painting your child’s bedroom can be a lot of fun. Whether you’re preparing a nursery or supporting your child’s wish for a new look, here are eleven style ideas to consider:

There’s Value in Simplicity

1. Pastel Colors

Sometimes simple is best. Choosing to paint the whole room one solid color is quick, easy, and versatile. The walls are just a background; if you want the focus on posters, furniture, or other content in the room, why make them compete?

Get your painting project started!

Using pastel colors will fade the walls out of notice even further, and allow for extensive style changes as your child grows, without the need to repaint. Consider pale yellows, blues, greens, and tans. Just a hint of friendly color, to last an entire childhood.

2. Bright Colors

Pastel sound too boring? Go bold! Keep the simplicity of one solid color, but add a bit of personality. Bright yellow, orange, blue, purple, pink… what kid wouldn’t love a bedroom painted their favorite color?

3. Accent Wall

Kids Bedroom PaintAdd interest to the room by breaking away from the idea of a single, solid color.

Painting a single wall in a second color doesn’t take much extra work. Just be sure to let the first, lighter color dry before taping the corners and adding the second color.

4. Chalkboard Paint

Best used as an accent wall, chalkboard paint will extend the fun long past the initial paint job. If your kid likes to write on the walls, now you can let them!

Alternatively, an entire room can be painted in chalkboard paint. Just be aware that the end result of this is black walls. Think carefully about how dark or bright the overall effect on a room will be before committing to dark-colored walls.

 

Fun for the Whole Family

5. Personal Touch

Allow your child to help paint their bedroom. With a drop cloth on the floor and tape or plastic over everything you don’t want painted, even a five-year-old can be allowed to help. Dress your child in an oversized shirt you don’t mind getting messy, and let the fun begin!

The image of your child with a paint roller a little too scary for you? Give them a smaller project: the light switches. Light switch covers can be removed from the wall – you may even have done so already, to more easily paint around them. Set your child up with the switch covers and their own paints, and they can design them however they want. Once finished, make sure the paint is dry and the switch openings clear, then screw them back in.

6. Sponge Painting

Another great way to get the kids involved is by sponge painting. Prepare the wall with a base coat, then let your children join the fun of sponge painting.

Natural sponges work best, though you can use any porous sponge. Mix the paint color of your choice with glaze – usually one part paint to four parts glaze – and begin dabbing the paint over the base color.

Experiment first on a piece of cardboard, but when you’re happy with the effect it’s time to start the walls.

For the best results, start in an upper corner of the wall, but if your child can’t reach let them start where they want. The best part of sponge painting is how easy it is to redo – just go back over an area with a different color. If only using two colors, this means mixing a little of your base color with glaze as well, to allow sponging over areas where your second color is too thick.

7. Stenciling

Kids Bedroom PaintYou don’t have to be an artist to add images to the walls of your kid’s bedroom. Use stencils, which can be bought or homemade. For homemade stencils, cut a shape out of paper or cardboard. For smaller images, you don’t have to draw anything: you can print from your computer and then just cut along the outline.

Attach the stencils firmly to the wall before painting. For larger images, you can even trace the edges and let your child fill in the rest.

An alternative to stenciling – if you have a steady hand – is projection. Project the image you want onto the wall, and trace the outline. Then turn off the projector, and fill in within the lines. Kids can help here too; you’ll have turned the whole room into a coloring book.

A variant of using a projector is to use shadows. Turn off the main light for the room, and turn on a bright lamp or flashlight pointed at the wall. Then ask your child to pose in front of it, perhaps pretending to do their favorite activity and trace their shadow! You can get as creative as you want for this, even bringing in props.

 

A Work of Art

8. Accent Image

A kid’s bedroom can also be a chance to enjoy a real work of art. If you, your child, or another family member or friend has artistic talent, consider the opportunities for a truly unique bedroom. It doesn’t have to be too time-consuming. A single accent piece can add a lot of interest, without taking weeks to finish or making you reluctant to cover the walls with furniture.

An accent image or design can be as unique as the child whose room it appears in, but some possibilities to consider are a tree in one corner, vines around a window, or a spaceship on one wall.

9. Literary Touch

When painting a kid’s bedroom, you’re not limited to colors and images for accents. You can also use words. Consider a favorite poem or saying, or the opening lines of a favorite story. Letters can be stenciled or hand-drawn; for more stylized fonts you can even use a projector.

10. Themed Room

Kids Bedroom PaintFeeling ambitious? You’re certainly not limited to a few accents. Many kids enjoy having a themed room. What does your child enjoy the most? Can you create a bedroom that reflects this theme?

A kid who loves mermaids could have a room with sponge-painted walls in blues and greens, with stenciled fish scattered over the walls and a mermaid painted on one wall. A kid who loves soccer could have a soccer net painted around a window, and the outline of themselves kicking a soccer ball traced onto the wall.

11. Mural

Are you all in? Imagine your kid’s bedroom as a sprawling mural that covers all four walls and maybe even the ceiling. If you have the time and talent to do this yourself, go for it! If not, it may be possible to hire someone to help.

DIY: Floating Shelves

How to Build Floating Shelves

DIY: Floating ShelvesFloating shelves are an elegant way of displaying collectibles, photos, travel mementos, or other decorations. This project is great for any DIY beginner because it’s simple, inexpensive and doesn’t take very long to make!

Floating shelves are useful for displaying items in your living room, bathroom, or just about any room of the house.

This easy DIY guide will show you how to build these floating shelves. Just follow the simple step-by-step instructions!

To start building simple floating shelves, determine whether the type of wood you’re going to start with. For this DIY, we’re going to use a hollow core door.

Materials Needed

  • 1 – 2 x 4 x 8
  • 1 – 18-in. wide hollow core door
  • 1/4-in. x 3-1/2-in. lag screws
  • 1-in. brads
  • Masking tape

Tools Needed

  • Hammer
  • Tape measure
  • Circular saw
  • Stud finder
  • Level
  • Glue
  • Straightedge
  • Table saw
  • 40-tooth carbide blade

Steps to Building Floating Shelves

Step 1: Mark the shelf position on the wall

Trace the horizontal location for each shelf using a 4-ft. level as your guide. Using a stud finder, you should mark the locations of your studs and lightly press masking tape over each one.

Step 2: Cut the door

Clamp a straightedge guide to the door, and then cut the hollow core door lengthwise. Be sure to use a 40-tooth carbide blade for a better and more smooth cut.

Step 3: Measure to determine cleat thickness

Measure the space between the outer veneers of the door and cut cleats from a 2×4 to this thickness. Use dry lumber for cleats.

Step 4: Screw the cleats to the wall

Pre-drill 1/4-in. diameter holes at the stud locations after you cut the cleats to length by holding the cleat to your line on the wall and drilling into the stud with a 1/8-in. bit. Using a wrench, install one lag screw into each stud until it’s tight. Use 1/4-in. x 3-1/2 in. lag screws. Each cleat must be straight.

Step 5: Test fit the shelf

Make sure the hollow core door fits over the cleat. Use a sander to remove material from the back edge for a proper fit.

Step 6: Install the shelf

Apply glue to the top of the cleat and the inside bottom edge of the hollow core door blank. Slide the shelf over the wood cleat.

Step 7: Secure the shelf

Nail the shelf to the cleat using a square as your guide. Start at the middle and work your way to each end. You should use 1-in. brad nails spaced 8 in. apart.

 

And you’re done!

Now that you know how to create beautiful, inexpensive floating shelves, get to work! For all the lumber and tools needed to build these custom shelves, visit your local GNH Lumber location.

Blanket Ladder DIY

DIY: How to Build a Blanket Ladder in 5 Easy Steps

Blanket Ladder DIY

Blankets can be an essential design element in your living space. Not only are they great to have on-hand when it’s chilly, they also add a pop of color, interesting textures and a cozier feel to your living room.

Because most living rooms have blankets scattered all over the couches and chairs, the trick is deciding how to display them in an attractive and functional way. Blanket ladders are a nifty and visually-interesting way to keep those blankets stored yet still in view. Keep your home tidy – and stylish – this winter by making your own blanket ladder!

Even if you’re a newbie to DIY projects, building your own blanket ladder is quite simple – and fun!

Get started by bring the following supply list to your local GNH Lumber.

Materials:

  • 2 six foot (1 x 4-inch) pieces of lumber
  • 1 six foot (2 x 2-inch) piece of lumber
  • Saw
  • Wood screws
  • Drill
  • Sandpaper, rough
  • Minwax Stain
  • Paint brushes
  • Cloth
  • Rags
  • Felt pads to protect the wall the ladder leans against (optional)

 

Step 1: Cut the boards and sand the edges.

First, cut four 18-inch boards out of the 2 x 2 lumber, and sand all board edges to create a rustic look. Sand the edges of the 2 six foot (1 x 4-inch) pieces of lumber, as well.

 

Step 2: Determine the placement of the boards to construct the ladder.

Place the six foot (1 x 4-inch) pieces on the ground and place the 18-inch boards at even intervals between them.

Spacing the rungs at 14 1/2 inches apart works well, but you can space the rungs however you like.

 

Step 3: Secure in place with screws.

Screw the rungs of the ladder into the rails of the ladder using wood screws.

 

Step 4: Staining (or painting).

Wipe thoroughly with a slightly damp cloth to remove any dust. Then use a paint brush to apply your favorite wood stain (or paint), wiping away any excess stain with a rag.

*Don’t forget to the stain dry overnight to prevent smudging and sticking.

 

5: Attach felt pads.

Attach felt pads to the back of the ladder on the top end to protect the walls it leans against. These can be purchased inexpensively.

 

Voila! You now have a stylish and interesting display ladder for your blankets.

Don’t forget, you can customize this DIY in a variety of ways to personalize it for your home. If your room has very high ceilings, you may want a taller ladder with wider spacing between the rungs. You can you dowels for ladder steps, or choose a bright paint color instead of a stain. You can also place several light coats of paint and then sand roughly for a more distress look. You’re only limited by your imagination!