Stencil Madness

Earlier this month I lamented the lack of design in my stairwell (as shown here). Well I went on a mission of inspiration to one of the happiest places on earth. No--not Disneyland. Or  IKEA. I went to Michael's. I love craft stores!

While shopping for some Christmas craft goodies (which is another post), I decided to wander the aisles and I stumbled upon some stencils! I found my inspiration!

Martha Stewart Crafts™ Arabesque Laser-Cut Stencils

There are 11 different stencils in this pack. originally priced at $16.99 but I had a coupon for 40% . After the coupon discount and tax I paid $10.90 which is the equivalent of $0.99 per stencil. Not to bad my little mathematical minions!  I envision all sorts of stenciling projects. WOOT!

 I like these 2 the best.

Iron works

Arabesque tile

The lower portion of the staircase 

   

will be painted Valspar Smoked Oyster 

6005-1C

The  upper portion of the staircase

will be painted  Valspar Oatlands Subtle Taupe

6005-1B

Then to break up the expanse I will stencil the Ironwork's pattern in a Pearlized white. I think the white will provide a nice contrast. The pearl will have just enough sheen and shimmer to bounce the light around. I do plan to add artwork, photos, and possibly a quilt.  (Don't forget the stair treads will be a nice dark Cappuccino color and the risers a bright crisp white!) 

I love the ideal of this stencil. It will look like wallpaper without all the icky glue. So excited to work on this! That is until I have a hunchback and claw-hands from spouncing paint for the stencil effect. Oh and there is the whole afraid of heights  and climbing a 14 foot ladder issue. Details, details....

And to my daughter who said-"Your just gonna paint it Beige and Cream, Mom. It's your thing."  I say  "Hush yer' mouth!"

(And I just might work that Arabesque tile pattern onto my risers...you just never know!)

A tisket, a tasket, that sure is a lot of baskets...

I don't know about you but I sure do love baskets. All sorts of baskets. Different colors, textures, sizes and shapes.  If I don't like the color--I paint them. Baskets bring a warmth and natural texture to a space. With so many varieties there is a basket for everyone. When the hubbs calls me a basket-case, he isn't far from the mark, haha! (And trust me when I say this is only a few that I have!)

I use them to hold dish towels in my kitchen.

I keep my first aid supplies in here.

Corral the TV, satellite and DVD remotes in the living room.

Try and control the dogs toys. (I didn't say I was successful- don't judge) 

Office stuff storage

Extra toiletries in the bathroom

I love to put plants in them.

They are great for  carrying my garden stuff.

But this is probably my favorite use most of all...

Wussie Cat comfy and cozy in her basket

Do you have any favorite baskets? What do you use them for?