We like it wild: bottle gardens. As much as we love to garden, sometimes there just aren’t enough hours in the day to do it all.
If there’s a way we can shorten our to-do list, we’ll take it. This week’s project, a no-fuss recycled windowsill herb garden, has knocked watering the plants off our list. Self-watering planters like these aren’t a new idea; we remember our own childhood craft books that taught us how to poke holes through Dixie cups or invert two liter plastic bottles to grow our own little bean garden.
This grown-up version is much better looking and works great for small herbs and plants. We used beer bottles for ours, but you could make a larger garden with wine bottles too. Although this project may take a little more effort than your average windowsill garden initially, the pay off is worth it for us: we get to usefully recycle bottles, we get fresh herbs we don’t have to dote on, and we get a sparkling window display.
CLICK HERE for the full (photo illustrated) project steps after the jump! Before & after: trolley depot renovation. It’s always been my dream to live in a home with airy, open rooms and lots of exposed bricks, so when this renovation project from Amy came across my desk, I was instantly smitten.
Located in Atlanta, this building is about 100 years old and originally served as a trolley depot. Thankfully, Amy and her husband did a wonderful job preserving many of the original details while adding some modern touches that complement the overall aesthetic beautifully. Wonderful job, Amy! — Kate Have a Before & After you’d like to share? Read more about Amy’s renovation after the jump! Time: 1 year Cost: $500k Basic Steps: The basic steps we took to achieve the look were to preserve the original space as much as possible and use the existing lines (like the arched windows) in other elements, like the niche, and the arched doorway — even the arch of the armoire. How To: Make Removable Fabric Wallpaper. Applying fabric to a wall with liquid starch is a great solution for renters and commitment-phobes alike.
A bit time intensive, yes, but the results are just about as good as it gets. And unlike wallpaper, you can take it with you when you move! This kitchenette turned walk-in closet (old house, used to be multiple apartments..) had great light and was begging for some inspired design. I'm a big fan of print/pattern/texture/print (repeat) and decided my closet would be the perfect space to bring that design aesthetic to life. And I must admit, I am a fabric hoarder that doesn't sew... so this project is truly the most satisfying project ever. What You Need Materials Lightweight, cotton fabric Liquid starch Tacks or Tape (painters or duct) Drop cloth Tools Paint roller Roller cover Paint tray Utility knife Step ladder Scissors Measuring tape Instructions Phone a friend or make this a team-building exercise with your favorite co-worker or cohabitor. 1. 2. 3. 4. 1.
Or 2. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Good luck!