Prepping for Artopy

So, here we are. A few days before our last show of 2012, Artropy. Our online sales have been a bit slow lately, even though it's the gift giving season...so, I was prepping myself with the idea that people don't give tables or home items as gifts.

Then the Monday AFTER Cyber Monday hit -- and we sold a ton of stuff. Depleting our Artropy stash!

No worries. We've been holding back on a bunch of stuff I'm excited to showcase this Saturday. And, we'll have some stuff that if I don't get rid of it now, I'll be using as gifts for my friends and family (you've been warned!)

Here's a peek at what we've been working on and what we'll be bringing with us.

Jeff has been working on a new table. It's a new style and finish and I'm really loving how it's turning out.

We sanded the top down to bare wood, leaving the middle panels the original color.

The original stain had a bit of a reddish tint and shine, so we sanded and distressed those slightly. It gave it a much worn look. Here it is without the trim around the door's edges.

The legs and skirt are stained a dark brown. Jeff trimmed out the edges of the door, giving it a more polished look. We'll be staining the bare wood a light color, so the table has some contrast. We'll also be placing glass in each of the panels.

I can't wait until it's finished!

I've been working on some glass ornaments. They are filled with carefully chosen creamy bits of antique books, music paper, glitter, vintage garland, glitter, old buttons and pearls. Each time you turn the glass the contents shift a bit and you see a different piece. They look so pretty on the tree.

Our wine bottle wall hangings have been very popular. We sold out at the Chandler Hill Winery event and a couple more this week. The only downside is that the more we sell, the more I have to drink (we like to use the same type of recycled bottle).

Which, I guess that isn't really a downside, is it? Would that make the wine a tax write-off?

Then, there's these little guys. I think they are the cutest in the world. Apparently I am the only one. We'll have these on-hand with some little holiday gift tags.

If you are in the St. Louis area on Saturday, stop out and see us. In addition to the dozens of amazing crafters, there's complimentary wine and beer and cats. Although, I don't think the cats are complimentary. Why don't you come on out and see for yourself?

How to Decorate for the Holidays for $10

For the last three years, I've decorated my tabletops, mantle AND buffet for Christmas on the cheap. $10 to be exact. My secret?

$10  White Pine garland at Home Depot.

It's easy to work with, gives the house a fresh, piney, Christmasy smell, and makes a huge mess.

Three things I look for in every project I do.

To be fair, I have an arsenal of other decor I add to my piney friend. Pine cones, red berries, shells (we like it beachy around here), and DIY mercury glass with candles (click here for a tutorial...it's soo easy to do!) all play a part. After the holidays, they get packed up and wait until it's time to come out again.

I'm able to get alot of mileage out of the garland. It goes on the Breakfast Room table.

Breakfast Room

On the buffet in the Dining Room.

Buffet

 On the Dining Room table.

Dining Room Table

 And, on the mantle.

Mantle

I've been using this same theme for the last several years. I could change things up. But, I love it.

If it ain't broke, don't fix it!