Ready for Spring and April 2024 Update

Amanda H in the studio with unfinished landscape painting (detail) Image by Create Display

Amanda H in the studio with unfinished landscape painting (detail) Image by Create Display

Amanda H in the studio with unfinished landscape painting (detail) Image by Create Display team [/caption]

It is mid-April in England and the gardens and landscapes of Sussex are green and bursting with colourful flowers at last. We have had enormous amounts of rain since Christmas all along the southern counties which has caused some flooding. This has meant Hampshire and Sussex have been on the news again this year, especially in the coastal villages and along the river Arun which has burst its banks.

Consequently, we are all just emerging outside and assessing the best projects to tackle first in order to brighten up our homes and business premises this season. It has been a good time to get organised with our favourite white painted baskets which are ideal for fabrics. The wet weather has also been a good opportunity to do some water-based painting sessions in the studio. More details on our latest pieces to follow…in the meantime check out our finished items on sale in our Etsy shop:

https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay
'noughties' pink MaxMara waisted jacket with custom matching cordroy hat cuffs and leather tassle bag. Alteration and photo by Amanda Howse

'noughties' pink MaxMara waisted jacket with custom matching cordroy hat cuffs and leather tassle bag. Alteration and photo by Amanda Howse

We have also enjoyed taking care of some thrifty alterations to our outdoor kit for cooler days. This wool hat and down filled coat have been enhanced using rose quartz pink corduroy fabric from Hobbycraft. A matching leather bag has been updated with a felt heart applique and some toning ribbons also from the crafty outlet emporium.

John Lewis bedlinen in Create Display country cottage interior bedroom with custom made headboard and cushiion and upcycled furniture. Photo and interior by Amanda Howse

John Lewis bedlinen in Create Display country cottage interior bedroom with custom made headboard and cushiion and upcycled furniture. Photo and interior by Amanda Howse

April is a perfect time to spruce up your bedding ready for the sunny mornings and long evenings, when I personally love to read something inspiring to round off the day. This 100% cotton set pictured here is from John Lewis. Here is a link for a similar botanical print that will certainly get you ready to start the day embracing spring:

https://www.johnlewis.com/john-lewis-botany-duvet-cover-set/p6326504
A pair of intertwined pink orchids brighten window cill in white kitchen in Sussex country cottage. Photo by Amanda Howse

A pair of intertwined pink orchids brighten window cill in white kitchen in Sussex country cottage. Photo by Amanda Howse

Bringing nature indoors is an easy and affordable way to style neutral interiors this season. Shades of fuchsia and rose are uplifting and perfect for softening a white and monochrome kitchen and adding a splash of brighter colour.   

Three painted pots of pink orchids with cream china fruit bowl add colour to white country kitchen

Three painted pots of pink orchids with cream china fruit bowl add colour to white country kitchen

At Create Display we wish you a happy and healthy spring wherever you like to live. Many thanks for dropping by to our blog. To talk with us about refreshiong your interior scheme or any other project or idea contact us:
https://www.createdisplay.com/?page_id=528

B&Q white baskets

https://https://www.diy.com/search?term=white+baskets

Weekend MaxMara ladies padded coats

https://gb.weekendmaxmara.com/outerwear/padded-coats

 

Light and Hope Themed Winter 23/24 Roundup

Amanda Howse with watercolour art interior Denmark January 2024

The Scandinavians are expert at creating cosy yuletide interiors and it has been a pleasure to see my hand painted watercolours displayed in a special Danish home setting. The Old Norse term hygge means ‘to comfort’ and comes from the Icelandic word hugr which means ‘mind’.

Moonlit tabby mixed media art by A.Howse

Moonlit tabby mixed media art by A.Howse

This winter we were inspired by the magical Coronation and the Crown light show event at the Tower of London. Light overcoming darkness and colour beaming through the night sky was also a favourite idea as we enjoyed the many festive lights brightening up what has otherwise been a rather dark and bleak winter for us all for many reasons.

Chichester City Tree Lights (detail) Photo by A. Howse

We were cheered by all the splendid displays of traditional fir trees and many other varieties of foliage festooned with strings of twinkling stars. The Petworth House Christmas tree dressing displays were traditional and beautiful. The Ideal Home Show entrance at Kensington Olympia surprised and delighted us with a sparkling snowy scene featuring a dozen life-size reindeer.

Fir tree display with pastel snow scene at Petworth House Sussex. Photo by A. Howse

The ability for technology to transform and help us mend and create solutions is perfectly encapsulated by the wonderful 3D printers now available to small businesses and craft folk. We have embraced learning more about this way of creating and we combined photography and a 3D printed ‘bauble’ in our handmade Christmas and Happy New Year cards for those we met over the festive season.

It has been fun to discover the possibilities of printing in colour in three dimensions and we look forward to being able to combine this modern tool with more traditional methods of creating and upcycling in the near future.
A selection of festive 3D prints using Bamboo colour printer. Photo by A. Howse

A selection of festive 3D prints using Bamboo colour printer. Photo by A. Howse

More details about our latest interior design, home make-over projects and Easter ideas coming soon, in the meantime keep cosy and happy spring!

Here is an article with more details about The Coronation and The Crown at The Tower of London and other Winter 23/24 creative events:

https://www.hotenough.com/2024/01/11/more-modest-festive-parties-rounded-off-2023-as-a-traditional-christmas-was-celebrated/

For more spring 2024 interior design ideas check out our online shop:

https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay

For more information about 3D printing see manufacturers website:

https://bambulab.com/en-gb

Also see this article on 3D printing at home:

https://www.hotenough.com/2024/02/07/what-are-3d-printers-and-why-would-you-want-one-in-your-home/

 

Playful Rose Tinted Interior and Autumn Update

Pink petunias in the garden at sunset. 
Photo by A.Howse

Pink petunias in the garden at sunset.
Photo by A.Howse

Summer 2023 has flown by and we will talk more about our creative and nautical adventures in another post celebrating the ‘blues and beyond’ soon. The next project to talk about is our recent playful rose tinted interior.

We painted the hall, stairs and landings of this typically English brick mid-century modern terraced house to reflect soft warm light and sweet sunsets. The walls are painted in Farrow and Ball’s Middleton Pink and finished off with Create Display original nautical and floral textile artwork, which is hung on the matt painted walls.

Photo by A. Howse

The staircase in this property is a statement that connects the three floors and it is fitting that it deserves to be highlighted carefully, as a central piece of the home’s design. As this solid pine balustrade had only previously been varnished, we sanded down the wood and applied primer and two coats of good quality paint, to achieve a new and up to date look.

A few coats of B&Q’s durable silk emulsion in white ensures that the paintwork will stand up to a lot of wear over the next couple of years, from the family and friends who enjoy living and visiting the property. This durable silk emulsion is designed to be wipeable, a really useful benefit, especially with young people (or children) at home
Pink, white and green first floor landing and stairs to ground floor.
Photo by A.Howse

Pink, white and green first floor landing and stairs to ground floor.
Photo by A.Howse

The good quality mint green wool carpet is at least a decade old and still going strong thanks to regular steam cleaning. The freshly added rose curtains are a good quality vintage pair, purchased in the picturesque town of Midhurst in West Sussex and given an extra wash using the hand wash cycle of the home’s washing machine. Choosing cool pastels in modern residential interiors is ideal for creating a calm, relaxing and spacious vibe throughout any home with relatively modest sized spaces.

The most challenging part of achieving this makeover was painting the second-floor ceiling on top of the stairway owing to its approximately 2.5 metre height. Adding a small brush and then a roller to a B&Q GoodHome telescopic extension pole made this job easy and convenient. (1)

English aristocracy have been using the warmest soft hues in the design of their stylish abodes for hundreds of years. Along the coast at Arundel Castle in West Sussex there is a beautiful shell pink and old gold bedroom fit for a queen. More about visiting English country interiors in our recent article here: 
https://www.hotenough.com/2023/08/19/english-country-house-interiors-to-see-in-the-south-of-england-this-summer
This Spring the Ideal Home Show in London featured a tempting handful of marshmallow pink interiors including the cosy bedroom pictured in the review article here https://www.hotenough.com/2023/04/02/2355/
First floor landing looking up to second floor in pink, white and green interior.
Photo by A. Howse

First floor landing looking up to second floor in pink, white and green interior.
Photo by A. Howse

Pink home office with sofa room set display by IKEA Southampton.
Photo by A.Howse
This autumn the clever folks at IKEA also chose to present their informal ‘pink home office with blue seating area’ room set display. The striking contemporary furniture ensemble and geometric painted walls also feature stencilling proclaiming ‘Live Colour Fully’ in graphic wall art. Several large framed boldly printed posters in coordinating colourways complete this fashionable pastel look.

Pink home office with sofa room set display by IKEA Southampton. Photo by A.Howse

Photo by A.Howse

(1) GoodHome Telescopic Extension pole, 2000mm-3000mm, B&Q Home Improvement Superstore, 6 November 2023 https://www.diy.com/departments/painting-decorating/DIY779142.cat
(2) Retail and Eco Style Update: Much Needed Pastels Bring Spring Cheer https://www.hotenough.com/2023/06/19/retail-eco-style-update-much-needed-pastels-bring-spring-cheer/

(3) English Country House Interiors to See in the South of England this Summer, A. Howse, HotEnough.com, 4 November 2023 https://www.hotenough.com/2023/08/19/english-country-house-interiors-to-see-in-the-south-of-england-this-summer/

(4) Last Call for Andy Warhol: The Textiles at London’s Fashion and Textile Museum A. Howse, HotEnough.com, 4 November 2023 https://www.hotenough.com/2023/09/08/last-call-for-andy-warhol-the-textiles-at-londons-fashion-and-textile-museum/

(5) Last Day for London’s Inspiring and Entertaining Ideal Home Show 2023, HotEnough.com, 2 April 2023 https://www.hotenough.com/2023/04/02/2355/

 

Arty Wintry Roundup and Roll on Spring 2023

Selsey penisular sunset, West Sussex, photo by Amanda Howse

It is the second week of March and it is meteorological spring already but it seems nobody has told the snowy weather in England! Therefore, as it has been a while, it seems the perfect timing for a wintry roundup, with lots of sunny day wishes for 2023, from us at Create Display.

It has been a busy season with everyone back in full swing this year, at last. There has been lots of local creative community meetings and exhibitions in Sussex and Hampshire and some exciting artistic events in and around London. Happily, there has also been time for some interior design, writing, painting, making and sewing too.

Some excellent walks at this time of year are a great opportunity for getting out in nature and enjoying the crisp cool light. We are fortunate to live on the Solent coast of England and I have been inspired by both the colourful sunsets and the watercolour pastels of our often-icy countryside.

Warm Light Vibes original collage painting by Amanda Howse

Here is a recent ‘Warm Light Vibes’ collage painting from my studio which I hope will give you a peaceful feeling. ‘Light, love and good energy will overcome the darkness’ is a theme that applies to our unexpectedly long cold beginning to the year and a lot of things that are happening in the world right now. I am using upcycled paper and Pebeo acrylic paints along with some leftover Dulux interior emulsion for this piece, which is painted on a deep canvas, from our local Hobbycraft.

We are delighted to be able to visit our favourite textile supplier The Eternal Maker at their wonderful new premises in Sidlesham, West Sussex. The Eternal Maker’s smart new barn store is complete with super new studio for classes and makers meet-ups.

A Howse outside studio with 'Warm Light Vibes' collage painting.

I was able to make holiday cards for special people I saw over the holidays. I like to buy simple message charity cards, turn them inside out and ‘wrap’ my own designs on the fronts. This technique works well for crafting all kinds of greetings cards too.

Here I am using a Hewitt Packard colour laser jet professional MFP M477fnw printer and scanner to print my images. I have owned this workhorse for a few years and it is an excellent piece of equipment. I just use PVA glue to carefully layer the cut sections onto cards I have painted with leftover multipurpose decorating paint (B&Q own brand).

Handmade new year 2023 cards featuring Warm Light Vibes painting by Amadna Howse

Handmade new year 2023 cards featuring Warm Light Vibes painting by Amadna Howse

This sunset painting on a deep canvas is inspired by the Sussex coastline. My office walls are painted in Dulux ‘natural calico’ paint which is a good neutral background hue for our colourful wall hanging collection. I have really enjoyed having this shoreline picture in my office over the last few weeks to remind us that brighter days are on the way. So, roll on spring!

'Sunset Sussex Shoreline' original painting by Amanda Howse

For more information about interesting art, design and textile related shows follow the links below to these articles and more at https://www.hotenough.com/

Create Display Etsy shop https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay
Instagram @amandajhowse
Eternal Maker website https://eternalmaker.com/
Hobbycraft website https://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/
Pebeo Paints website https://en.pebeo.com/
Faffe Fassett show article https://www.hotenough.com/2023/03/09/kaffe-fassett-power-of-pattern-show-is-a-kaleidoscope-of-colour/
Butterick Vogue Pattern Factory show article https://www.hotenough.com/2023/03/02/johansons-show-celebrates-butterick-pattern-factory/
Objects of Desire Surrealism show article https://www.hotenough.com/2023/02/12/expand-your-imagination-visiting-objects-of-desire-at-the-design-museum/

 

A Royal Treat: Indoor and Outdoor Displays and Events Celebrate Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Across UK

Jubilee Window Display Barnardo's Chichester, West Sussex

Jubilee Window Display Barnardo's Chichester, West Sussex

Millions of people all around the world joined in to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. On June 2nd 1952 at just 25 years old, Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation was seen globally. Our Queen holds the record for the longest serving monarch so the country has been determined to honour all her achievements in high style. Since 1953 Queen Elizabeth has been Head of the Commonwealth which covers 14 ‘realms’ and 54 countries.

Queen Stamp Collages, Jubilee Street Party, Camberwell Green, London

Queen Stamp Collages, Jubilee Street Party, Camberwell Green, London

During the long Bank Holiday weekend there were several official galas which commenced with the Trooping of the Colour which is a tradition on the Queen’s official birthday annually.

More details about the celebrations in London can be found in our article #Londoners Celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with Free Street Parties’

Although the major processions were initially formally organised back in the Autumn of 2021, public organisations and businesses everywhere in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland began to decorate and prepare for this memorable weekend before and during May 2022. By the time June began the Union Jack bunting was everywhere and there were reports that most jubilee trimmings have sold out.

Library Jubilee Display Camberwell Green, London

Library Jubilee Display Camberwell Green, London

Small independent retailers and big chain stores all took up the theme and used their window displays to thank the Queen for her service in hundreds of creative ways. There were mannequins dressed like the Queen and lots of vintage inspired collections with the revival of 1950’s style and music being enjoyed as particularly appropriate. Corgis were frequently featured as the Queen’s favoured breed which made for fun promotions. Red, white and blue presentations which included posters, cut-outs, books and images of the royals were everywhere from libraries and museums to bars and restaurants.

Queens Jubilee window display Vintage Rose, Chichester, West Sussex

Queens Jubilee window display Vintage Rose, Chichester, West Sussex

The combination of free outdoor market fairs with entertainments for all the family and commercial promotional displays created a vibrant visual feast, in most towns and cities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. More details about how counties outside the capitol like Sussex celebrated 70 years of her Majesty’s reign, can be found in our article #(2) ‘UK Towns and Cities Get the Flags Out for Queen’s Platinum Jubilee’
Jubilee 'yarn bombed' post box, Bosham, West Sussex

Jubilee 'yarn bombed' post box, Bosham, West Sussex

In many towns nationwide the campaign chairs, tablecloths and colourful flags were prepared ready for an afternoon on Sunday of toasting the Queen, in colourful Jubilee outfits and hats. A variety of ‘afternoon tea’ inspired foods and drinks and some favourite international cuisine dishes graced the decorated outdoor banquets.

Queen's Jubilee window display poster, West Sussex

Queen's Jubilee window display poster, West Sussex

In many towns nationwide the campaign chairs, tablecloths and colourful flags were prepared ready for an afternoon on Sunday of toasting the Queen, in colourful Jubilee outfits and hats. A variety of ‘afternoon tea’ inspired foods and drinks and some favourite international cuisine dishes graced the decorated outdoor banquets. ‘What a weekend’ was the verdict from most citizens. The four-day national holiday with hundreds of regional uplifting events to thank the Queen for her work, was declared a delightful and lavish success.

Bosham Walk Art and Craft Centre Platinum Jubilee display

Bosham Walk Art and Craft Centre Platinum Jubilee display

 

Spring well-being outdoors together again in England

Sussex Sunset Original Art by Amanda Howse

Sussex Sunset Original Art by Amanda Howse

Spring well-being outdoors together again

In England we have all been very happy to see the warmer weather and longer days to cheer us up. For creative folk Spring is a time to be inspired by nature and the blossoming and blooming of our gardens, countryside and coastlines. On the south coast our environment is a joy during the spring and summer months.

Just spending a little time outside looking at the bees, butterflies and other miniature insects, chicks and other new-born animals brings us comfort and pleasure. Smelling the grass and plants after the rain and listening to the birdsong and the sound of families enjoying a day at the beach is delightful.

It is possible to paint outside, or inside with all the doors and windows open, on most days. The extended hours of daylight make drawing, crafts, gardening and all sort of other creative pastimes possible. Sports and socialising can be enjoyed well into the evening and outside music and campfire songs become an option once more, during this special time of year.

Chichester Pride flag and red roses

Chichester Pride flag and red roses

We have been (as safely as possible) meeting up with family, friends and work colleagues once again. On the whole for most young people and adults returning to workplaces and attending events is really uplifting.

Millions of people completed their DIY to do list during the lockdowns last year and the year before. Moving into bigger homes in more rural ‘out of the city’ locations has also been a key trend in England. Market towns and coastal areas have received in many cases a much-needed tourism boost with increased year-round local custom and visitors from all over Britain and the rest of the UK.  

Online shopping is part of life for nearly everyone now and you can see our online store and many other unique makers at

https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay

Adults and young people took up new creative hobbies and tried new skills during the unexpected ‘work from home if you can’ weeks. Guitars were played, hats were crocheted, vegetables were grown, online courses were achieved, languages were learnt and sewing stash projects were accomplished.

Bosham Walk Art and Craft Centre Platinum Jubilee display

Bosham Walk Art and Craft Centre Platinum Jubilee display

In London, Hampshire, Sussex and Surrey the tourism websites and social event listings are full with Pride carnivals, theatre performances, art exhibitions, musical performances, summer fetes, community and market shows. In addition, all manner of contests and street party related ‘knees ups’ are currently being promoted with red, white and blue bunting displays to advertise the celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, this extended bank holiday weekend.

Going forward it will be interesting to see what creative work directions and new hobbies become a permanent part of daily living in the future, as most people find time to visit friends, take minibreaks, commute and go to meetings and conferences ‘in real life’ once again.

Original art collage in progress by Amanda Howse

Original art collage in progress by Amanda Howse

We have several massive challenges in our society, along with some excellent opportunities to improve the quality of life for our fellow citizens, which we will look at in more detail in future posts and you can read more of our articles at https://www.hotenough.com/.

As a country the people of the United Kingdom are known for innovation and creativity in solving problems and creating solutions. This is definitely a time to use our positive energy to help others in our community locally and globally, to be able to live a better life.

 

Interior Design Makeover Ideas for Homes with Lodgers

Galley kitchen interior park garden home Hampshire

Galley kitchen interior park garden home Hampshire

Recently we helped complete a home interior makeover in order to accommodate welcoming the lodgers moving into a delightful mid-century house in Hampshire in England, for the first time.

We kept the walls and furniture light and bright in order to give the cottage a feeling of freshness and space. The effect means touching up with white paint in the future is a breeze and the views over the park remain the star feature of this cool modern pad.

Kitchen interior ready for lodgers

The galley kitchen is clean and functional with units, furniture and furnishings from Ikea all expertly fitted and tiled by Mr Golding from Kent. All our projects together have worked out superbly due to Mr Golding's attention to detail and extensive experience. (Contact us for more details) Large tiles were sourced from online suppliers and used both on the worktops and the floor. The light white marble effect tiles are particularly stunning as a heatproof work surface and their large size makes keeping the kitchen spotless very easy. 

First floor double bedroom ready for lady lodger

First floor double bedroom ready for lady lodger

If you are considering letting your spare room in order to welcome a professional lodger, see our article on what to think about before you advertise your houseshare:

https://www.hotenough.com/2021/07/12/what-to-think-about-when-considering-letting-rooms-to-lodgers/

Bedroom interior ready for a lady lodger

This year we have also designed a 1960's home to appeal just to female lodgers in this townhouse which is also in Hampshire in England. This property has the benefit of an attic bedroom which has a wonderful cosy feel to it. In this scheme we paid particular attention to the details. This is because the new educated female in the household was arriving from overseas.

Attic bedroom interior with desk that doubles as dressing table

Attic bedroom interior with desk that doubles as dressing table

We wanted our lovely lady to feel instantly at home so we redecorated and added lots of textures. We have shopped locally for our second-hand items from local charities and upcycled pieces throughout the home. We have also chosen local retailers for all our furnishings pictured here.
The views over pretty gardens are highlighted by the durable and cosy CarpetRight silver carpet, ivory lace painted walls by Dulux at B&Q and coordinating accessories in a soft pink accent colour. The unusual bedside tables are reproduction cherry wood pieces from Europe, which add character to the inviting boudoir.

Attic bedroom interior with vintage chest of drawers and metal B&Q chair

Most of the bought accessories and 100% cotton bedding is from Asda. The jewellery hanger is handmade and the Irish linen tablecloth, curtains and the white chest of drawers are all vintage. The metal double bed and mattress are from Ikea and the chair and desk which doubles as a dressing table is from B&Q. The outdoor chair matches a set that is used in the garden for outdoor dining, so this chair can be easily used as extra seating for guests if needed.

We like to add a TV with a firestick in each bedroom to enable most channels and streaming services to be available. This system can be used with the fast broadband connection which is all included for our hard-working home sharers to relax with at the end of the day. We have also taken care to design the sitting rooms and gardens to make sure everyone can enjoy living in a smart contemporary home together.

For advice on designing bedroom specifically for female lodgers contact us at Create Display or more information see our article here: 
https://www.hotenough.com/2021/07/04/how-to-design-a-lodger-ladies-bedroom-for-an-ideal-house-sharing-experience
 
https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay Create Display Handmade Etsy Shop
https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/ Ikea
https://www.diy.com/ B&Q
https://www.dulux.co.uk/en Dulux
https://www.carpetright.co.uk/store/ CarpetRight
https://direct.asda.com/george/home/D26,default,sc.html Asda

 

How To Make Raised Planters and Add Meditteranean Style

Garden planters with tulips

Garden planters with tulips

This spring we have been making the most of our outdoor spaces especially since the gradual lifting of the regulations has allowed for us to walk and meet outside together once again. Inspired by wonderful Mediterranean design we have created a new ceramic stone coloured patio where some old decking used to be.

We have chosen an area of the garden in a mid century terrace in Hampshire, England which faces west and enjoys lots of sunshine. This design could be scaled up by adding more panels and planters or scaled down by just building one planter with a single trellis panel. This method is suitable for a large property or a small balcony. Alternatively installing a trellis planter of this type at the side or front of a property might make a pretty focal point so a tiny outdoor space can still look special.

How to make the raised planters with trellis back panels

1. Firstly to create both impact and privacy in the garden we have built a high fence at least 2.3 metres high using thick wooden posts to make a large frame. The hardest part of this project was connecting the large OSB panels onto an existing rendered brick wall standing around 1.2 metres high.

2. Using timber posts and a masonry drill we screwed right angled brackets at regular intervals onto both the existing wall and the posts. Then once the structure was ready we screwed the vertical OSB panels closely butted together into place.

Detail of tulip planters

Detail of tulip planters

3. The outdoor treated timber lengths now support the orientated strand board (OSB) panels to form a large flat wall. We then painted the new textured wooden surface with dark green fence paint from B&Q’s own brand range. It is a good idea to save time by not cutting the OSB boards and securing them in a portrait orientation gives us the height we wanted.

4. The supports for the planters were constructed using thick finished spruce timber from B&Q left over from building our studio cabin. It is important to raise the planters up off the patio to help make the space feel as spacious as possible and allow for drainage when watering. Another benefit is being closer to the flowers to make the most of their beauty and plus it makes watering the plants easier. The durable black plastic containers are from B&Q and are a bargain at £6.30 each.

5. It was easy to fill the planters with fresh soil and pop in the tulip bulbs ready for the warmer weather. We have already grown some climbing clematis and there are more wallflowers planned to continue the vertical planting theme.

6. We attached eight vertical pieces of trellis from Covers to add interest and support climbing plants. We painted the trellis with Cuprinol from B&Q in the country cream colourway to match our new design studio.

Clematis and palms in raised bed

Clematis and palms in raised bed

Introducing Meditteranean elements throughout the garden

In another area of the garden a simple bamboo lattice is easy to create using twine and bamboo sticks. The bamboo arches from Hillier work really well for supporting growing plants like tomatoes.

When we laid the new patio we also added a curving raised bed to soften the edges of the space an provide an area for growing lots of different shrubs and flowers. So far the jasmine has done well and some small palms add texture and interest too. We are adding lots of circular shapes to this otherwise rectangular residential plot to give a much more attractive 'relaxing on holiday' terrace feel to what was previously a bland backyard.
Pink roses in terracotta pot

Pink roses in terracotta pot

No Mediterranean garden would be complete without terracotta pots of flowers. This outdoor haven features pink roses in a large glazed terracotta urn from our local Hillier garden center. The ceramic container sits on top of a circular brick raised bed with rounded grey stones that used to be an old water feature. Now the planted circle is a pretty botanical focal point that looks great all year round through the patio windows in the kitchen.

In the summer months get ready for guests by adding outdoor furniture and textiles in natural materials. Hang up colourful floral wreaths like these handmade pieces from Create Display to decorate the walls of your continental style entertaining area and compliment the colours of your foliage. Enjoy the delights of al fresco dining with friends in a fresh and neat open air oasis or just some well earned time relaxing outside on the patio.

More posts to follow about this project as the different sections of the space are completed. Check out our Etsy shop for lots of ideas for brightening up your home and garden. Enjoy the sunshine and the joy of working outdoors again this season. Keep well and keep creative!
Thanks to Tina C for her contribution to the construction of the planters for this project.
 
Create Display Etsy shop https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay
B&Q home improvement superstore https://www.diy.com
Hillier garden centers https://www.hillier.co.uk/
Covers building merchants https://www.coversmerchants.co.uk/

 

How to make a spring rainbow flower wreath

Large rainbow flower wreath by A Howse

Large rainbow flower wreath by A Howse

This spring rainbow flower wreath, wall hanging door decor, floral decoration is ideal for adding a vibrant touch to any home and would be a great gift for Valentines Day or Mothers day.

If you have some extra time because of lockdown you can try out a new craft. This is a fun project to try and recreate for yourself. You may like to entertain some young people and it is easy to have a go and fashion a special circular rainbow wreath out of old or extra materials you may already have in storage. If you only have plain wools you could easily use paints to achieve a selection of primary hues.

Large flower wreath by A Howse (detail)

Large flower wreath by A Howse (detail)

I used a standard plain twine wreath as a base. I constructed a extra layer of rolled up materials, by tacking them together, in the shape of a long sausage. Then I twisted the larger element around this central frame of woven twigs.

Using a large embroidery needle and a variety of threads I wrapped and sewed the rings in place, binding the decoration together. Then I added the tassels.

I made the flowers using a flower loom and vintage fabrics and wools and hand sewed pretty old buttons in the middle of the blooms. I sewed on the flowers and crafted a bow out of two layers of cotton and voile to go at the top of this unique wreath.

Lastly I attached a ribbon loop and some extra embellishments carefully sewing all the pieces together securely.

Back of large rainbow wreath

Back of large rainbow wreath

Here are some more details about this spring wreath

Handmade in Chichester harbour in West Sussex this original wall art piece is made using recycled and vintage wools, threads, curtain tassels and ribbons. A natural twine base was used to fashion the circular centre and multi coloured fabrics and threads have been layered to make a unique textile artwork.

Celebrating the hope that comes with spring this cheery hanging decoration will brighten up any porch, office space or room in the house. You will enjoy the uplifting vibes that come from this floral wreath that features hand sewn blooms in a variety of textured threads with vintage button centres. The style is modern pretty and 'cottage core'. This rainbow wreath will add a splash of colour and creativity to your space in an instant.

Large flower wreath side

Large flower wreath side

Easy to hang on any hook or with a simple nail attachment as the basket weave construction and upcycled fabric materials are not heavy. There is a wool and ribbon loop for simple display on your wall or door.

This multi hued textile artwork would be ideal for a birthday celebration or new home. The spring wreath will brighten up any room and is for stylish interior decoration and not a toy.

Large flower wreath with medium flower wreaths

Large flower wreath with medium flower wreaths

The floral hanging is designed to be used under cover or on sunny days in a sheltered area. This super circular piece can withstand a little moisture and can be kept dust free by wiping clean with a damp cloth when necessary .

To see the range or to purchase this piece or similar items in our etsy shop follow this link

https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/942567174/spring-rainbow-flower-wreath-wall?ref=shop_home_active_1&frs=1

We hope you are enjoying a sunny Friday and that spring is now definitely on the way. Keep safe, keep calm and keep creative!

 

Making Simple Festive Door Wreaths in 6 Steps

Ivy festive door wreath by A Howse

Ivy festive door wreath by A Howse

In order to spread warm greetings of the season to anyone who passed by or visited over the holidays, no stylish front door could be seen without a festive door wreath this season.

Festive teal and gol bow wreath ready to deliver

Festive teal and gol bow wreath ready to deliver

I wanted to make my own Christmas wreaths by hand this winter and also incorporate foliage from the garden we have been very grateful for this year.

In the spirit of 'keep calm and carry on crafting' I wanted to make my own Christmas wreaths by hand this winter and also incorporate foliage from the garden I am very grateful for this year. In the end I made a few with different coloured embellishments so I had enough to share.

Wreath making step 1 garden base

Wreath making step 1 garden base

1. I started with a circular rattan grapevine wreath base from Hobbycraft to outline the basic size.

2. Then I twisted around the twiggy base some bunches of pretty dried sedum flowers that were dried out naturally in the garden. I chose them as they have delicate sprigs of flowers that hold a good shape.

Festive wreath making step 2

Festive wreath making step 2

3. Next I gave them a quick light spray with some old gold spray paint I already had in my supplies from another project. It is a good idea to use any spray paint in the garden.

Ivy and sedum wreath in garden

Ivy and sedum wreath in garden

4. After extensive foliage foraging I discovered that we did not have any holly anywhere on the property or fields nearby. However we did have several little ivy bushes that were doing very well in all the rain that we had in December. Therefore I made two wreaths topped with ivy wound around the sedum and rattan base and secured with cotton knitting wool ties in a few places around the circumference.

Festive wreath making step 3

Festive wreath making step 3

5. Using scraps of material I have saved from dressmaking I hand sewed some bows to add interest. These were simply constructed by hemming rectangles of silky cloth and adding a gathering stitch up the middle to form the bow shape.
Festive wreath with pink bows ready to deliver

Festive wreath with pink bows ready to deliver

6. A small gold leaf decorated 3D printed boat was added to each wreath as a nod to our nautical location but you could use any baubles or small toys and paint and add gold leaf easily with a little PVA glue. Gold leaf is available in Hobbycraft or any good art suppliers.

Orange stars festive wreath

Orange stars festive wreath

This orange stars wreath contains lots of texture from pine cones. This natural accessory is decorated with stars made out of an old printed canvas picture I have repurposed. Emerald green ribbon and white cotton knitting wool ties make it a cheerful festive treat that was quite happy to be hung outside.

For more hanging treats for your home see our Create Display online shop on Etsy

https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay
 

Hobbycraft, Christmas Wreaths and Garlands, 8 January 2021

https://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/christmas/christmas-decorations/christmas-wreaths-and-garlands