DIY Abstract Art ||And a Short Video||

Guys!  I made a video!  It's hilariously embarrassing because you're just staring at my butt the whole time [and my shirt was a little low cut - YIKES!]  But because I love you all and trust that you won't make fun of me too much... I'm gonna let you watch it ;)

But first let me explain what would possess me to play cinematographer in the first place.  So remember when I used an oversized graphic/abstract art piece for this staging sesh?  

Well I was inspired by the oversized abstract art that is popping up in decor magazines and trendy homes all over the place.

Source: Carla Aston Designed

Source: South Shore Decorating Blog

Source: Martha Stewart via Apartment Therapy

Source: My Domaine

Source: West Elm

Source: Interior Porn

But what you didn't know is my DIY version only took me 5 minutes.  What?!  You don't believe me?!  Well that's why I took a video ;)  Before you watch, let me briefly explain my process behind this piece.  First rule of abstract art: there are no rules.  Seriously, just let yourself go wild and stop when you like what you see.  

I opted for a navy paint [mostly because I didn't have any black] but I love that it makes it a little less stark.  Using a large paintbrush loaded with only a little bit of paint, I made broad, sweeping brushstrokes across the canvas.  I wanted the strokes to really show some texture so I only filled in where I wanted a richer hue and stayed more "feathered" at the edges. 

Well.  Here goes nothing.  Thanks so much for watching and I hope it at least makes you chuckle ;)

It's a painting in 5 minutes! You heard me right - now you can watch the evolution of the DIY abstract art from my mid-century-modern-rustic-eclectic photoshoot. Enjoy!*disclaimer* this is my first video so bear with me (and also... I'm sorry)

Posted by StyleMutt Home on Sunday, September 6, 2015

5 Ways to Use a Table Runner

Tis the season where we'll all be seeing beautiful tablescapes dressed to the nines and meant to inspire us with layers of crystal and gourd goodness. I admit, it's tempting! I even tried my hand at a seasonal tablescape last Fall, (above). But in our home of 'wild things' a beautifully dressed table just isn't very realistic. However, when I spotted this runner at Target last year, I couldn't resist! This beautiful pattern lends itself to so many other uses than just the table! So I've rounded up 5 of my favorites to share - I hope you enjoy and certainly hope you're inspired with some ideas of your own!

Threshold Kilim Table Runner

1. Add pattern over a solid quilt

Who says bed runners have exclusive rights to beds? This runner draped at the foot instantly adds character to our white quilt!

2. Dress up a dresser

Aside from protecting against water stains, a runner that you like draped over a plain-jane dresser is an easy way to put your touch on a piece you aren't head over heels for, or even a hand-me-down piece!

3. A cozy kitchen rug

I love this as a kitchen rug! It's long enough to run along all my front facing cabinets but narrow enough that it doesn't take up too much space. A cut-to-size rug pad underneath makes it a comfy place to stand and prep food and meals.

4. Hanging woven art

This past spring I was crazy about all the gorgeous weavings folks were hanging on their walls! I wanted to try it out myself without spending any $$$, so I hung this piece up! I love it's size and presence!

5. Add personality to a chair

As soon as I saw the clever ladies who own Sweet Clover Barn dress up a pair of of chairs in southwestern mats, I couldn't wait to try the idea myself with this reading chair in our bedroom! The addition of the runner makes this a chair I would hold onto forever - the possibilities are endless!

These ideas are my personal favorites that I've tried but I'd love to hear any others you've got! Sometimes it just takes seeing something to spark an idea of your own - if this inspires you in any way feel free to post your own pictures on our Facebook wall or tag #stylemuttprojects on Instagram! We'll take a few and share them here, (with proper credit, of course)!

Thank you all for stopping by and have a GREAT one! 

Reader Design: Julie's Breath of Fresh Air in SoCal

Alright, friends. It's Friday, you've gotten this far, and we are ready to treat you to another spectacular Reader Design home tour for StyleMutt Home Spaces. There will be no loud exclamation points. No all caps. This quiet beauty lends itself well to relaxation and a cup of tea, if you're in the mood. So make yourself comfortable and come on in. :)

Our hostess du jour is one of our dear distant friends from across the country in Southern California, Julie. We've had the pleasure of getting to know Julie on Instagram, (@juler54), and her home is such a reflection of her kind and gentle spirit. She has a true hostess heart and I imagine her door is often open.

So let's take a peek inside, shall we? :)

Living Room

Dining Room

Kitchen

Bedrooms

Patio

Can you believe this view?! It just doesn't quit!

Aren't you feeling refreshed after that? I know I am. Thank you so much, Julie, for inviting us in to your beautiful home!

Don't forget you can post your home photos on our Facebook wall or tag #stylemuttspaces on Instagram to express interest in sharing your home tour here at StyleMutt Home! We've got a stellar growing collection of tours on our Spaces page and would love to add yours!

Thank you all for stopping by and enjoy your weekend! If you're local we would LOVE to see you this weekend at the Sweet Clover Barn 'Back to Style' Labor Day sale! Saturday & Sunday, 10am-5pm, 4051 Stanford Ct. Frederick, MD!