MAKE IT!

I love these retro-inspired do-it-yourself kits from Urban Outfitters. You can choose a screen printing or block printing version-- hey, why not get both? What better time than now to express your creative (not to mention resourceful and frugal) side?

Design (Within) Reach

Here's a great Christmas idea-- something for the crafty ones. I like these simple bookends made of pine-- they would likely cost under $20 to make and they look great. You can copy them from the DWR website, but don't look at the price!

Student Inspired

CONSIDER, in these economically difficult times, that inspiring model of creative home design, the college student. There was a recent article in the New York Times recently, doing just that. In an article and slideshow, the Times highlighted several great designs made of grocery bags, found objects, and minds much more generous than their pocketbooks.

It's a Cinch

Ready Made magazine, one of my favorites, is featuring this make-your-own stool using old belts. I love the idea of repurposing leather belts-- they have a natural sheen and wear that gives them interest and a vintage feel. This is a great project.

Secondly, this reminds me of the beautiful mats I saw at International Contemporary Furniture Fair this year in New York. Ting Home, a London-based design company makes these outstanding floor coverings from used belts. They fashion them into 12 x 12 square tiles, then assemble the tiles in alternating directions. Again, the wear gives them a natural interest and shine.

So go buy some belts!