Hi there! I’m Kristi!

I’ve been blogging here at Addicted 2 Decorating for over a decade now with one singular vision. By sharing my own DIY journey in remodeling and decorating our 1948 fixer upper, I hope…

…to inspire YOU to put aside fear and self-doubt, pick up those power tools, and dive into your home-related DIY projects so that you can turn your house into the home of your dreams without spending a fortune having others do the work that you could do yourself.

So I’m here to cheer you on, and I LOVE hearing about your DIY victories!

But since you clicked on my “about” page, I’m guessing you want to know a bit about me. Here are a few factoids:

I graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology — a useless degree (for me) that I never used. I could kick myself for choosing that over interior design!

In my 20’s, I traveled all over the world, and even lived in Turkey for a year-and-a-half. Istanbul is my favorite city in the world, and I’d love the opportunity to live there again.

I married my amazing husband, Matt, in 2002. He’s my biggest cheerleader, but since he’s wheelchair-bound due to multiple sclerosis (with which he was diagnosed two years after we got married), he’s not able to help me with any of the projects on our home.

When we moved from Oregon to Texas (my home state) in 2005, I started my own interior decorating business, and I worked with clients for seven years. I quit because my passion was DIY, and I longed to get way more hands on with projects than an interior decorator generally does.

I started this blog in 2007, just after I started my interior decorating business, as an outlet to share my projects. Little did I know that Addicted 2 Decorating would eventually become my full-time job, which was a blessing as I was needing to stay home more to be Matt’s full-time caretaker as his mobility and abilities declined.

These days, I’m remodeling and decorating our home — a 1948 fixer upper that we bought in 2013 — one room, one project at a time. I do about 85% of the work myself, from building cabinets to sewing draperies and everything in between. But at times, I do have to call in reinforcements, whether that’s a family member or my trusted contractor.

I’m so glad you’re here!

I hope you’ll take a look around, and I hope you’ll find something helpful or inspiring. And please let me know if there’s any way I can help you reach your DIY goals! I’m always eager to share suggestions, opinions, helpful tips, product recommendations, and more. If you’re new around here, you may be wondering where to go from here. Well, I have a few suggestions…

1. Jump Right To The Blog

If you want to head right to the blog, you can click here to see the most recent posts and work your way towards the oldest. Here are my most recent posts…

Or you can start with my oldest post (warning: those old posts, along with my lack of photography skills back then, are a bit rough 😀 ) and work your way towards the most current posts. That way would make more sense, but again, those old posts from over a decade ago are pretty rough. At at some point along the way, I actually lost a lot of old posts, photos, and comments. So those old ones aren’t exactly in the right order, but they’re close enough.

At the bottom of each post, you’ll find easy navigation to the previous or next post, so you can keep reading to your heart’s content.

4. Browse My Paint Colors & Product Sources

Are you looking for information on the paints and products I’ve used in our home? Here’s a sampling of those things, and you can click on the images or the button below for all the juicy details.

I hope you’ll enjoy reading about my past projects, and hopefully you’ll learn a few things along the way. I’ve learned a whole lot from my readers over the years, so this is definitely a give-and-take kind of place. I hope you’ll pour yourself a cup of coffee or a glass of iced tea, settle in and get comfy, and stay for a while!

I also hope you’ll consider following along on my DIY and decorating journey as I continue to tackle the unfinished (and yet-to-be-built) rooms in our home. The more the merrier! If you don’t want to miss a new post, you can subscribe below to have all new blog posts (about two or three per week) delivered right to your email inbox.

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227 Comments

  1. Hi Kristi-
    Just checking back in to see what you thought about my previous email.
    I need someone to help me with a few issues on my blog as well as evaluate what’s missing or what I can do to help it grow.
    In addition, I am interested in moving to WordPress.
    All for a fee- of course.

    Would you be interested and can you let me know your fee?

    Thank you,
    Laura

    1. Hi Kristi, I recently discovered your site and I,m now hooked! I love your ideas and the fact that you are renovating a small condo. I am planning on buying my first condo and you are inspiring me to find one that I can renovate as well. I especially like the butcher block counters that you use mineral oil on. Were they originally a light wood? And is there any problems with the wood over time around the sink area where it would be wet most of the time?
      I can’t wait to see your future projects. Please keep them coming! Thanks!
      Nicki

    2. I have searched and searched for a place to submit a question. I have clicked on ask a question over and over. I have read many things on site already. Are we required to read every word before we can ask a question? Will someone please tell me what I’m missing?

      1. Kandy, did you go to Contact Kristi at the top of her page? And a lot of questions she answers right here on the discussion site.

    3. I’m sure you are too busy to check your blog, but I hope you get notice. I came upon your blog because we are doing lots of DIY’s. So far I checked out your beautiful bathtub apron you made. Your instructions were amazingly simple and the final look–so professional! I’m going to try it….and give every bit of credit to you. I can’t wait to check out all your projects!

  2. Hi Kristi,
    Was wondering if you would share the colors you used in your Kitchen Make over? Love the colors but just not sure the computer does them justice…Thanks, love love love your page.

    Jenn

  3. Dear Kristi,
    I just discovered your blog and can totally relate to the sense of fulfillment by doing things by yourself. I bought my house last year and it’s far from done, but every little project my partner and I finish leaves us with this special glow! I’m really grateful for your sharing so many amazing ideas which I might adapt and change into things that fit my home. Many thanks and keep on – it’s great fun to read!
    Love
    Karen

  4. I am Addicted 2 UR Decorating and I am going to take on some of my projects! I too feel more alive during projects especially this time of year and my winter blues. Thanks for the inspiration.

  5. Kristi, I am so happy I found you. I am a textile/surface designer who has the same perspective as you, except I live to paint in the classical form. I also have been to the middle east . Look forward to getting to know you through your designs. 🙂

    Yours is the first profile I read completely and wanted more. Well I will close for now and look for

  6. Hello,

    I live in australia and am very interested in converting from Drapes to Shutters and have read your views on the subject.

    For sure there must be a place for Shutters ???? could I send you some photos ???

    Kind regards vicki

  7. Hi Kristi,

    I just stumbled upon your blog and so glad that I did –
    you’re an inspiration!
    Really interesting – looking forward to reading more
    thanks, Emma.

  8. Just stumbled across your blog and WOW you are amazing. I don’t know if you’re still taking jobs but I’d be willing to fly you out to my house and work your magic!

  9. Kristi –

    I came across your blog from Oh So ShAbBy By Debbie Reynolds, you are what I have been looking for…i’m in love with your little condo, as my own home has small spaces, i have the want to be creative and get my hands dirty, but i don’t have the vision you have.

    Maybe following you I can get that look I’ve been dreaming of!

    Thanks for the inspiration!

  10. Hi Kristi————– Came on your blog also by Oh So Shabby by Debbie Reynolds. Your makeover of your condo kitchen is amazing. It is done to perfection. You should be very proud of it. Look forward to seeing all the things you do!!!! Wish I had the talent you have!!!

  11. I just found your site tonight and I can’t take my eyes off the screen. I love all of it. I too love to find treasures at thrift stores to change and decorate with.
    I’m wondering if you could do a virtual guide for me if I sent you a picture of a room that needs serious help? And how much you would charge for that?
    Truly addicted FAN – Rachel

  12. Dear Kristi,
    I found your blog as I was searching on “how to hang a picture on a tiled wall”…and I not only found the answer (it just happened that I have those Command…) but I discovered a treasure! I am also addicted to decor but you are on a class way over what I have accomplished. I have not even finished to look around your blog and I felt the need to put a comment.
    Your work and creativity are exquisite!
    God bless you.

    Marina S.

    1. Sandra~
      I don’t respond to every comment I receive. Unfortunately, there simply aren’t enough hours in the day for me to do that. I do try to respond if someone has a question, and whether I respond on the blog or via email depends on whether or not the answer to that question would be beneficial to other readers. If others would benefit from the info, I’ll answer on the blog (which also automatically sends an email to the original commenter letting them know I’ve responded). If the info isn’t beneficial to other readers, I’ll respond via email.

        1. I’m not looking for advice on how to run my blog, either, Hunny. So far, you’ve been quite eager to hand out advice to me on how to spend my money, my time, and now how to run my blog. I’m not in the market right now, but if I ever do find myself in the market for a smart-alec, know-it-all life and business coach with a foul attitude, you’ll be my first contact. I promise. Until then, no thanks.

          1. Good for you Kristi
            There are always a few that can do it bigger, better, & have that motto of “Do it my way or do it the wrong way”-wonder why she has so much time to spare/share? Could it be that she’ll never be as successful as you–w/ that attitude!? & after a while u just have to tell them NO THANKS for your own mental health!
            I also had a business-painting, DIY,supplies, flowers,-& grew to hate it!”The store chores” took away frm my love-DIY. I enjoy teaching others also-love people. GREAT SITE, stumbled on frm Pintrest. Eager to see more. Now retired my newest projects are my brothers new 3000 sq foot home, currently all 1970-80’s, & an…

            antique (love them!) bedroom suite for my granddaughter.Dbl bed, vanity/triple mirror/stool, linen press,&2 nite tables currently painted all black. Would so APPRECIATE IDEAS EVERYONE! She is 13 w/ great, classy taste.

            I am very blessed; my brother does estate sales & besides buying much older sis all kinds of fabulous things he also gives me 1st pick….well, AFTER HIM! He knows all things antique, glassware, jewelry etc.
            Thanks sooo much for your generous sharing!(would love any IDEAS, any skill level in your spare time (ha!).
            suzi/ TX

  13. What can a I expect for a $2500 design service fee. Uncredential talented person who can help me pull it all together.

  14. I am just blowin’ away with your talent. I have tried getting some help from many different designers but haven’t come across anyone who really understands what I want. I stumble across your site on facebook then came to your blog. We have identical taste in decorating I just don’t know how to do it. If I was to send you some pictures of my home would you be able to help me with it. I have a country ranch style home and I am hoping to redecorate all of it. You are now my inspiration.

  15. I am just blowin’ away with your talent. I have tried getting some help from many different designers but haven’t come across anyone who really understands what I want. I stumble across your site on facebook then came to your blog. We have identical taste in decorating I just don’t know how to do it. If I was to send you some pictures of my home would you be able to help me with it. I don’t expect it for free of course. I have a country ranch style home and I am hoping to redecorate all of it. You are now my inspiration.

  16. I’ve been following your blog for a couple of months now and this morning was the first time I read your “about me”. I was pleasantly surprised to read that you are located in Waco. I lived in Woodway myself for some time and Portland, OR before that. I’m now living in Austin (Barton Creek area) and am having a ton of fun decorating! Any way… just wanted to let you know that I really enjoy your blog and the projects you talk about. Keep up the good work!

  17. I just found you a few days ago…I nearly had a heart attack when I read your April Fool’s post. I thought “great, just my luck. I find someone who inspires me and she’s going” I love your creative spirit. I have visited a few(hundred) blogs looking for inspiration and a creative spirited woman…you are by far the best I have come across, thus far.
    I have a small, and new business (very small, and actually it’s a ministry) I call it USE IT OR LOSE IT. I offer to redecorate a room in someone’s home (for free). The catch is this…they have to be willing to give up one piece of furniture, one piece, or more if they want to, that they have had hidden away, no longer like, or just have no use for any longer. I leave with that piece. I take that piece home and “play” with it, use it myself or (usually) use it in someone else’s home. Mostly it is women I work with, who, for whatever reason are going thru a difficult time in their lives. I came up with the idea when I was ill and had congested heart failure. I became very depressed and so did my home. I can remember wishing that someone would come and save me from the black and gray of my life…save the rooms of my home from their colorless life. I thought …. “If I live thru this and make it thru my heart surgery I am going to do something to help someone else living a gray,dull life.” Fast forward 2 years later…I started, Use It Or Lose It. I get a tremendous amount of satisfaction from doing this. It also has helped me to Get My Feet Wet and get back into the real world. I firmly believe your home is the outer expression of what’s going on inside.
    I have always loved decorating. When I was about 4 years old my family owned a large, old victorian home on Long Island, NY. I had a closet the size of N.H. I turned it into a TEA Room and decorated with all types of scarfs, lights, and table cloths. My only customers were my dolls…lol…but it was the begining of my creative self. Any way…all this to say; I appreciate you, your art and hard work. What a great mind you have. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you do to inspire and encourage others. It’s a great gift you have and I believe very much, Holy Spirit inspired….but that’s just my opinion. Thank you, thank you, thank you for helping me to push thru another layer of my life.
    ~Lydia O’Lydia.

  18. I NEVER POST ON BLOGS BUT WHEN I SAW YOURS……..WOW!
    I TOO LIKE SHOPPING THRIFT AND ANTIQUE STORES. IM HOPING TO FIND
    AN OLD 50’S HOME SOON AND RECREATE SOME OF YOUR IDEALS INTO
    MY NEW HOME. YOU ARE AMAZING.

  19. Hi Kristi, I stumbled onto your website looking for help on how to build a banquette…OMG I have fallen in love!!!…with your blogging, your creativity, your style….YOU!!!!!! I can’t wait to begin my own banquette, your instructions are fantastic and I, like you, have a great husband but do it all myself because I love creating, painting, diy-ing. Can’t wait to share your site with my friends and family…you are my hero girl!!

  20. Thank you Kristi for being so helpful to us newbies. I just watched your video on not being intimidated by WordPress, I decided to try it, and set up a site. Your video shows that you can just click on plug ins from your dashboard, and I can’t access them at all. Your blog is absolutely beautiful. God bless you girl!

    1. Hi Norma~
      You might not be able to access and use plugins because it looks like you’re on a WordPress.com site. Most of the info that I give is for self-hosted WordPress sites (i.e., the kind of blogs that are set up on website hosts like HostGator, or BlueHost, or GoDaddy). You will be able to gain general knowledge of WordPress by using the free site, but there are man things that you can’t do on a free WordPRess.com site that you can do on a self-hosted site.

  21. Hi, I’m a newbie to your blog and now I’m addicted! By the way I LOVE that green “chandelier”, it caught my eye immediately! Your whole condo is great and someone will snap that up as soon as it’s on the market!

  22. Kristi,

    You are so inspiring. 🙂 I’d like to inquire about your blog design services…
    I’ll shoot you an email. 🙂

  23. Just found your blog and LOVE it! I briefly lived in Waco, met my husband there and then we moved back to Nebraska. Planning on using your chandelier ideas for our daughters’ room. So happy I stumbled upon you.

  24. I just want to know when you move to Chicago, so that I can be your first “case”. My poorly decorated home needs your intervention! Not for the lack of trying, just lack of vision.

  25. Hi! I too, have just stumbled on your page from trying my own hand at this. It started a few months ago, when I had a little money to use for decorating… then the combination of looking for a bargain and downright DIYing, came into play. I really am only weeks into doing different things and the website is a bit embarassing compared to yours- (bowing with hands raised to you) But I ultimately wanted to try to make money doing this, while my daughters and I are all in school. I quickly realized that juggling a household, my own decoration trials, and a website was a bit too much, so I haven’t done anything with it. Also, this is our first summer in our new place and with the nicer weather, I have been spending all of my time trying to fix the yard up and making it cute. Anyway, I love your projects and am trying one out tonight. The paint chip artwork! Seemed very simple and was going to the hardware store anyway..(as I am sure most of us on here spend a lot of time there) It was funny trying to gather up a few of the samples while the men in the paint department kept asking me if I needed any help. I don’t know why, but I felt like I was doing something illegal. Anyway, I can’t wait to see more of your projects!

  26. Hi Ms. Kristi,
    I just found your blog, well I actually stumbled onto it the other night. I had a little extra time today and here I am leaving a shout out! Wow! Kristi, its not common or even the norm for me to leave comments on website or blogs etc., but girl your design style rocks! Love it, I love everything about your style! I have a very critical eye and I could not find one thing that I did not like on your blog! You are so talented and gosh, I wish like you don’t even know, that you were closer to me. Waco really! Bummer! I would love for you to choose me to design for. I love my stuff, but I just need to bring it all together, to make it go, POW, you know, like your stuff! You have a gift, its warm, its creative, it lively, its good Kristi! Have a great holiday and happy designing!

  27. Hi …..Kristi , from one addict to another…your make-over’s in your condo…how do I say
    it ….are perfect. The colors, the wood, the balance of materials, the originality..wow..very impressed. !!! Don’t stop, I want more…!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  28. I Sooooo wish you lived around the Columbus Ohio area so I could beg you to take on my home as a design project. I love DIY ideas and have pinterest boards full of them but they never quite turn out like I planned or like the photos. LOVE your blog and came across it actually while looking up information on SBI…which has my head spinning because I agree with you and feel so stuck 🙁

    Can you be my mentor for home and business?! 🙂 Keep up the great work Kristi. Seems like you’ve worked long and hard for this and hopefully you are being blessed a hundred times over for it.

    Tammi

  29. Dear Kristi,

    You are truly doing a great job, and you are so inspiring I have started blogging recently on my blog its such a pleasure to do what you love…God bless you !

  30. Kristi,
    I am new to your blog and am thrilled to find you are a Waco resident. I’m sure you have lots of people who contact you from our little old town, but I just wanted to say hello and love the idea of the weekend retreats! My dream home is still a work in progress (aren’t they always).
    I’m thinking we may even live in the same zip code. Kudos on all your wonderful work and I am eager to see your new home and what magic you will work. And no, you are not alone in wanting an older home instead of a newly constructed one. They are by far the most wonderful to live in. So great to know others in town who think like me! Pop some tags!

    1. Well, hello neighbor! 🙂 I’m always so excited when someone local finds my blog! And yep, I’ll take an old house any day over a new one. When we move into our “new” house, the first thing I’m going to do is rip up all of the yucky carpet and reveal the original hardwood flooring hidden underneath. I can’t wait!! 🙂

  31. You are exactly where I would love to be. Fortunately I have and Unfortunately, I must work a regular 8-5 job. I love your creative use of materials for your designs. I too use anything and everything I find in Home Depot, junk shops, trashed furniture, and hand me down “stuff”.
    I usually don’t use these materials as the manufacturer intended or suggested their use.
    I can’t tell you the number of times the sales person has asked “well, what are you going to do with _________? (fill in the blank) At first I tried to explain my current project, only to hear,….. “Lady, you can’t do that and it won’t work if you do!” I then would explain I knew that was not the proper use for the material in question. Also the person telling me my idea wouldn’t work usually had never heard of the said material. After awhile I told them what they want to hear…. I’m buying the ______ for my _________ project. (fill in with the proper use) Finally I realized I didn’t owe anyone an explanation. Now, I just ask where “it” can be found and don’t tell them what I am doing.
    I love the bathroom counter top made from cedar planks. One question, why use the planks over the plywood? Why not a solid piece of plywood & a piece of furniture grade plywood? I’m thinking the cedar planks are cheaper and it resists the water damage. OR Does it just look better than a solid sheet?
    Please keep the projects, pictures and great work coming. I can’t wait to see each and every post.
    Any ideas for wood floors? Not finishing existing floors. Installing wood floor that don’t cost $$$$.$$.

  32. Hi Kristi – funny we have the same name and spell it the same way too. Unusual! I stumbled across your blog while recuperating from surgery and I have never seen a site with more DIY- creativity than yours! You really are an insipration and I now have about 4 projects that I am going to tackle on my own! Thanks so much for sharing all of your great ideas!

  33. Hi Kristi, Wow! I have to say this is the very 1st time I have commented on a blog site. I love your house. I read your Bio; love it. You have really lived your dream/your passion and I commend you. That’s courageous! I too love designing – building – painting – restoring – creating. It’s my passion also. I always say I missed my calling. Even before I was 2o years, I worked in construction -building about 20 houses from the ground up. But that was extremely hard work for this then barely 100 lb(er). I thought I wanted to be a contractor! Imagine that? Or a building inspector. I raised my children in an 100 yr. Victorian house and just recently bought a mid-century house to restore – somewhat like yours. I got one room done and tore out a lot of things & painted but love came calling. I let it go eventually, but have some regrets about what it could of been. I have loved every house that I lived in because I make it a home & I make it who I am. I have lived in large houses & small houses & currently live in a very large 3400 sq. ft. English Tudor. I continue to restore – build – paint – CREATE! My ideas are like a rocket soaring in my head, I’ve had this affliction for years! Kidding aside, truly not many people would understand. But I know you do! Sometimes in the morning when my husband & I arise being up about 15 minutes or so. He’ll say do you have plans for today? I usually say, you will not believe of all the things I have thought of in just 15 minutes! Then I explain & tell all the details of my 100 decorating crazybrain ideas & he just smiles his big wide mouthy smile at me! I can’t help myself!
    I think you are great. Keep doing what you love, you have truly found your PASSION & that is a wonderful thing. Your new house, new to you, has a lot of work to be done, let me say that again -it has a lot of work to be done. And you asked if this house appeared too big a project, I say go for it! I know you can do it & you will love the process. You just cannot help yourself -it’s your Passion!
    Take care – happy remodeling!
    Cindy

  34. Hi Kristi,
    My name is Riham, i’m from Cairo, EGYPT. I found ur blog few months ago and since then i’ve been hooked like an ADDICT :), Every single day i have to open ur blog first thing in the morning, it helps me start my day with a smile :).
    i learned from ur bio that you have visited and worked in Egypt !!, Maybe someday when you have the time (which i’m pretty sure u don’t have with ur successful blog and ur new home and all) you can share ur experience in EGYPT and what u did there.
    I LOVE LOVE ur condo, if i were living in the states, i’d probably traveled across states to see it in REAL 🙂 Also i LOVE pretty much all ur DIY projects and would really like to try and do all of them, my main problem is i don’t have the experience to substitute the materials and the tools u use in the states with the things we have locally. I certainly would hope that we could communicate so maybe you could help me figure out things related to materials.
    Finally, i felt obliged to write to you as i thought u probably would like to know that you inspire women across the GLOBE and that you have fans in other continents not just the United States of America 🙂 GOD BLESS YOU .. LOOKING FORWARD TO KNOW ALL ABOUT YOUR PLANS FOR YOUR NEW HOME 🙂

  35. I just love you ideas to decor home, I like to decor my home, I get some cute and brilliant ideas from your site. I am a working women thats why can not spend time in all this thing but I am surely try to use this ideas…. Thanks Kristi

  36. You have done a lot in a short period of time. You really “busted a gut” doing those floors yourself but I can appreciate how satisfying that job has become. I have lived in several homes that I had No choice on where the bed goes and three of them were in front of a window. I got used to it after a while.

  37. Step out the front of your new home…look to your left…there behind the huge magnolia tree…I’m waving to you!!!
    Welcome to the neighborhood. It is a great place to live!

    1. Well hello, neighbor!! 😀 Hopefully I can meet you in person someday soon. We hope to move in sometime next week (before October 18th) but if you see my silver car in the drive before then, feel free to come on over and introduce yourself! I discovered that our house doesn’t have a doorbell, though. So depending on where I am in the house, you might have to knock quite loudly for me to hear you. 😉

  38. hi Kristi,
    I stumbled on to your site looking for DIY info on placing an oval decorative mirror in the center of my big square mirror in my small bathroom. I can not figure out how to make it stay up in the center of the mirror-yes mirror on mirror- any suggestions. I noticed on your blog the bathroom looks like it has one of those puddle type mirrors in the center of your big one -is that so- or am I just trying so hard to find one I think it is there??
    If you could help in any way I would appreciate it, I am not giving up on this idea I saw on one of the do it yourself shows , can’t remember if it was DIY or TLC or HGTV but it was gorgeous!!
    thanks
    Linda Webb

  39. just wanted to comment on what your plans were for the living room with the trim inbetween i am not a professonal but i always thought the dark color looked better on the bottom & light color on the top.

      1. Even if 1 wall is an accent color, other walls a different color, should I keep wainscoating white on all walls? Stumped!

        1. Kirsti,
          I also had a business-painting, DIY,supplies, flowers,-& grew to hate it!”The store chores” took away frm my love-DIY. I enjoy teaching others also-love people. GREAT SITE, stumbled on frm Pintrest. Eager to see more. Now retired my newest projects are my brothers new 3000 sq foot home, currently all 1970-80’s, & an…

          antique (love them!) bedroom suite for my granddaughter.Dbl bed, vanity/triple mirror/stool, linen press,&2 nite tables currently painted all black. Would so APPRECIATE IDEAS EVERYONE! She is 13 w/ great, classy taste.

          I am very blessed; my brother does estate sales & besides buying much older sis all kinds of fabulous things he also gives me 1st pick….well, AFTER HIM! He knows all things antique, glassware, jewelry etc.
          Thanks sooo much for your generous sharing!(would love any IDEAS, any skill level in your spare time (ha!).
          suzi/ TX

  40. Stumbled upon your website and blog by accident while looking for pictures of how to hang curtains/drapes with window clips! Great site. Thank you for sharing. May God Bless!!

  41. I recently came across some of your designs. I was wondering if you could tell me how you keep the screw eyes in the corks without the weight of keys pulling them out? I would like to make some as gifts. Your designs are wonderful. thank you ever so much.

  42. I just found your blog recently. I love what you do. I too enjoy finding those diamonds in the rough and turning them into something that makes me proud.

  43. I love your blog. I dabble in the same type of thing but only for myself or my family at this time. I was wondering if you give advise- ie if I were to send a pic of a piece I want to redo but not sure what it needs. Thanks!

  44. I just recently discovered “addicted2decorating” and I love it! I also like to do things myself and it is so therapeutic!! I have pounded out many a frustration on a project and love the feeling of accomplishment when I complete one. It is nice to have someone (especially a “pro”) compliment something I have done and seem truly impressed. Thanks for sharing your projects, ideas, thoughts, frustrations…. Your blog today mirrored exactly how I feel when I work on something and how much I enjoy and love doing things to my home. I look forward to more stories and ideas!

  45. I am absolutely in LOVE with the roman shades. I have looked all over for some that will fit all 5 of my odd sized windows and have failed at every attempt that doesn’t cost a fortune. I am planning on making my own but I am completely in love with the cloth you used. I was just wondering if you could tell me where you ordered or possibly what company or brand it is?? I have been looking for days and just can NOT find anything even similar. Thank you for your help and tutorial!!!

  46. Hi Kirsti, have just seen your 5 tips for painting. I am a novice at the moment and just embarking on my painting career !!!!!!!so don’t really have anything to share yet but will do soon hopefully. Thanks again. Kathy x

  47. Unable to access instructions and products I go on the bath fixture painting.
    Could you please share?
    Am at wits end with 40 yr old condo in Mililani Hawaii where plumbers (multiple) advise unable to change out fixtures without tearing into tiled walls at huge expense. Was all set to attempt using oild rubbed. Ronde rustoleum spray but unsure of prep. Many thanks.

  48. Kristi, I need some advice. I want to build shelves to go around my son’s room and I am not sure how to hang them. I don’t want to use metal brackets. I want to use wood blocks or something like that. The shelves need to be sturdy. I was thinking screws and liquid nail. What is your opinion?

    1. If you’re talking about using Liquid Nails to attach the bracket to the wall, I would try to avoid that. If you change your mind later, you won’t be able to remove them without some serious damage to your walls.

      However, if you’re talking about adhering the brackets to the shelves using Liquid Nails, then yes, go for it!

      There are all kinds of wood brackets you can make using either lumber and a miter saw, or lumber and a jigsaw. Just depends on the style you want. Or you can buy very inexpensive wood brackets at Home Depot. I used some very cheap ones in my hallway bathroom makeover at the condo on the shelves above the toilet. I mean, they were super cheap, but once they were sanded and painted, they looked great! They could be stained, too.

  49. Hey Kristy..after four years of being down..one thing was a bad surgery..then momma stroked and it paralyzed and can’t speak..and kids grew up and out..I got so depressed..stayed in bed mostly..I did that so long I forgot who I was..saw you on fb..follow your blog..and yes..I’m up..headed to lowes..to do what I remember is and always was my nitch..my Passion ..Decorating! You helped me! Thank you for bringing my passiin for decorating alive again..much love

  50. Hi Kristi, I love your website. I found it about 8 months ago looking on ideas on remodeling my master bathroom. You helped me see the potential of decorating “outside the box”. What I need help on now is how do you paint all of the wood oak cabinets. Do you do it ALL by brush or do you spray the doors? Thanks for your beautiful ideas!

  51. Kristi, this is from a older post that you had but I found it in my “old” mail. I’m not getting any of my bloggers post. Not sure what’s going on…. but I want to still follow yours.

  52. How much material do you need to do the coffee table tufting? My table is 3 x 3.
    Thank you for your help.

  53. Hi Kristi, I just discovered your blog. Very cool. I need advice on planking some walls and especially trim! My brain can’t look at that much stuff at once. I’d like to send you a couple pics with 2 or 3 questions. How do I do that? Thanks!

  54. Consider this a fan letter. I have probably 15 decorating blogs bookmarked. Yours is the only one that I cannot wait to see every day if you have posted something new.

    I believe it’s because you are so open to share your plans, your thought process, the problems you encounter and your solutions. Even your mistakes! How can I go forward with my DIY before I learn from you the issues at hand?

    I find that other blogs just smooth over many of the steps to a remodeled kitchen, bedroom etc. I mean, how can we learn from a single posting “here’s my remodeled kitchen”? I can see this on Houzz. Your issue with paint shine in the kitchen had me entranced.

    Just saying, thanks and look forward to each stage of your remodeling.

  55. I just discovered your blog when searching about counters and waterlox. …. so glad I found you and i love that you have a Waco connection, we went to grad school there and got married at baylor and i grew up near waco..i went to a small bapist school like DBU too (called Howard Payne in brownwood) so i feel like we would have a lot in common.

    I would love to ask you a few questions about waterloo..i put one coat on THEN found your blog..i wish i had not done it..my counters are just so rough and i want them smoother..i wish i had done more mineral oil to get there..should i sand the one layer of water lox off of just continue on with mineral oil???

    i know you get a ton of emails and may not be able to respond but thanks if you can!

  56. Hi Kristi! Love checking your blog everyday!! So much new and exciting things happening. Love the idea of the rolling doors but, not a fan of either way with the glass – have you considered doing some stained glass in the large cutout? Nothing dark -so that light would still come through and still give you privacy. A free flowing design that would encompass both doors. Just a thought.

  57. Hi Kristi. I love your blog. I love how you share the highs and lows and how practical you seem to be. There are other blogs that are fantastic in their own right, but do not seem to realize that not everyone can change their room every other month with a new $1000 rug. I digress. I have a specific question for you and could not locate a “contact” option anywhere on your site. I just got a critter sprayer to spray on furniture. I would like advice on what paint to use in it and if that paint needs to be diluted.

    1. Ha! I just came inside to take a break from spraying my doors outside with my Critter sprayer. 🙂 So far, I’ve used latex paint (Benjamin Moore Advance, Behr, and Kelly Moore), oil-based primer (Zinsser oil-based Cover Stain), and water-based polyurethane. So far, I haven’t watered down any of the latex paint, and it sprays beautifully. And of course, I don’t water down the polyurethane. The only thing that I thin is the oil-based primer. Zinsser is kind of thick, so I do add just a bit (maybe a few tablespoons per pint jar) of mineral spirits to the primer and mix it well before spraying it. It really helps to keep it moving through the sprayer.

  58. Hi Kristi – I have ivory tile around my fireplace in my family room. My fireplace is oak & takes up one whole wall because it has storage and shelves around it in a special walnut stain. (I have never cared for white tile-I feel ivory is a softer color). I really love the black, gray, white and red color scheme and would love to paint my family room walls a medium gray but I don’t think that would go well with the ivory tile ( I don’t want to paint the tile either.) What do you think? Also, my sunroom is painted “nutmeg” which is a taupey brown. Depending on where you are standing in my family room you can see into the sunroom. Is it wrong to paint the family room gray since it isn’t in the same color palate and you can see into that room?

  59. Hmm. If your chairs are skirted, perhaps you wouldn’t notice the base of your table? In any event, it’s nice to hear your enthusiasm!

  60. Kristi could you please let me know what colors you used to paint the dresser turned into TV stand? I really love them and want to use similar colors. Thank you 🙂

  61. Hi Kristi

    I would love to discuss your passion further as I’m very interested in interior design/decorating and would like to start something similar to where you started in my home town within Australia. I would love to find out more regarding how u started , whether you did courses and where did u begin etc. Thanks Kristy -ur blog is amazing

  62. Wow! So glad I stumbled in.
    You are my diy-hero!
    I was looking for answers on how to make my ugly sliding glass doors look more like traditional swinging patio doors. With what you did to wind up with those amazing Palazzo doors … you’ve inspired me!
    Can’t wait to browse around and see your other ideas.
    Thank you so very much for your amazing info.

  63. Hi Kristi! I am curious about the HCG Diet you began earlier. I haven’t seen any updates ( or did I miss them?) recently and I am also struggling with weight loss. Despite watching what I eat, sticking to weight watcher points and exercising… I am having no success this time around at 55 and am wondering about this option. Please let us know if you are still on the plan and any updates/ insights you can share. Thanks so much

  64. I’m liking your site! You have very good ideas. I’m going back to the age-old question of mixing metals. I have a unique dilemma. One of our builder grade brass knobs broke, so I’ve decided to go ahead and switch out. I’ve chosen a venetian bronze (similar to ORB, they look black in the darker hallway) knob. Our front door knob is a gorgeous solid brass Baldwin that I love and will keep as it matches the brass trim around the glass panels in the door. The problem is the interior door hinges. They are brass but not shiny anymore. They are sentimental because my dad wrote the name of each room the doors would go in on the hinges when we built the house. He is no longer with us, so it’s very special to my kids and I to see his writing. Is it wrong to keep the hinges and use the new bronze knobs? I’d appreciate any help you can offer.

  65. Kristi,
    First off I would like to compliment you on your beautiful work and style. I’ve been doing Interior Decorating for several years. I decided I wanted to learn more about the all the professional aspects of design so I went back to College (35 years after I graduated from college the 1s time). Let me just say, WOW, it’s the most amazing experience and fun thing I’ve done in a long time.. I was reading one of your posts and well, I was a bit disappointed by your comments about Interior Designers having high priced budgets and painters, etc. I am the most frugal designer you’ll probably find. I love to take something I see and make it my own. So off to the thrift stores I go. It’s not a glamorous job like everyone thinks, but I love it. We don’t walk around in high heals pointing out items we want our clients to have. We have budgets to stick to and a TON of work, which is sometimes done in sweats and sneakers. As for school, it’s not easy, with having to know what period furniture is from, the history of each piece, several computer programs, etc. I just felt bad that you made it sound like Interior Designers doesn’t work, ha. Their is a big difference between designer and decorator. You have a beautiful eye and talent, and i love to look at your creations. But its a big miss conception that you imply about an Interior Designer. It’s hard work. Please don’t take this wrong, it is just a message that as much as i love my job, I don’t run around in beautiful shops all day and boss around high priced painters. That would be fun though. Keep up the great work.
    Much Respect,
    Dianne

  66. How do you do so much without physical help? Cement board/drywall for example. I’ve tried to hang it alone and I’m either not strong enough or coordinated enough (or a combination if both) to do it alone. I wish I could “train” under you! That would be amazing!!

    1. Well, I can tell you it’s not always pretty. 🙂 Putting up the second (middle) full piece of cement board on the long wall of the tub just about did me in. It was heavy, and I had a heck of a time lifting it up high enough to clear the bottom piece. I almost dropped it a couple of times, and I was making all kinds of noises (like weight lifters make), yelling at the board telling it what to do, and making all kinds of noises. Matt didn’t know exactly what to do — whether to leave me alone or call someone to come help me! Anyway, I manage to get most of it done by myself just from sheer determination and stubbornness. 😀

  67. Kristi, do you remember where you purchased that 7″ round framed mirror you used for the multi-colored wood sunburst mirror made from wood shims? I can’t find anything comparable.

  68. Hello Miss Kristi! I discovered your site while searching ‘how to hang lined curtains/drapes’. Your techniques helped me immensely…. I LOVE decorating and creating items for my friends’ homes, families’ homes and my own home. BUT, I must say…YOU ARE AN ABSOLUTE GENIUS!!! Your ideas are amazing…and I love the way you take so many risks! Thank you for creating this blog and sharing all of your ideas and projects. I hope to learn from you and put to use some of your ideas, maybe even with my own twist! THANK YOU, KRISTI! ♥

  69. Hi Kristi! I found your site while looking for some decorating blogs, and I absolutely love it! I started my own interior decorating and event planning business last year, and your story definitely hit home. I love your ideas and would someday love to be where you’re at. Thanks for sharing your ideas and know you have a new reader!

  70. Hi Kristi I am redoing my whole house from painting kitchen and bathroom cabinets to painting lover laminate counters. I am using a rustolium oil paint for laminate counters. I recently found out about penetrol for oil paint. I have used it and it does eliminate some of the brush strokes. I read about the foam roller.
    What I thought might work is if I used very little paint and maybe 1 1/2 times penetrol. To really get that smooth look evenly distributed. Can you give me your thoughts on this or maybe other suggestions.
    Thank you so much Candy

    1. I wouldn’t recommend using more Penetrol than is recommended on the label. On the occasions that I’ve used more Penetrol or Floetrol than the label calls for, I’ve found that the paint flows smoothly for a while, but then gets sticky and the paint brush drags. It almost has the opposite effect than what it’s supposed to.

  71. Hi Kristi I am using a rustolium oil paint for laminate counters. I recently found out about penetrol for oil paint. I have used it and it does eliminate some of the brush strokes. I read that you have used a foam roller. should I use less paint that penetrol in order to get a smooth even look or does it make a difference. Thank you Candy

  72. What a beautiful kitchen you have! I was in Hancock fabrics this morning buying felt; you were looking at fabric swatches and you mentioned blogging and having a green kitchen. I was curious about your kitchen and googled ‘Waco decor blog’ and here you are! Love the green and gold. I’m excited to look through all your other projects – it’s fun to read a local blogger!

  73. How do you ask a design question. the Q&A seems to not go anywhere. How do you access the archives for mor Q&A dilemmas. Do people ever send pics when they take you advice and if they do how do you find those?
    Love your blog!

  74. I am so excited I found your site. I recently purchased an old oak clawfoot table and had an idea in my mind of how I wanted to efinish it. Your blog gave me the exact info needed.

    Thanks so much!!!!!

  75. Wow, Kristi! I am blown away with your creativity, DIY skills, and thriftiness. And then you find time to share. Many thanks!

  76. My living room/dining room ceiling has many imperfectins and so due to costs I have decided to re-do with texturized paint. What are your thoughts? Would this lessen my chances of selling?

    1. A little bit of texture on a ceiling is just fine, like an orange peel texture or subtle knockdown texture. You just want to avoid anything heavily textured like the acoustic texture (i.e., popcorn ceiling). Homeowners look at acoustic/popcorn ceilings as a negative, for sure.

  77. Kristi, you are such an inspiration to us DIYers. Happy Thanksgiving to you, Matt and your beautiful cat!!! Hope all is well.

  78. So happy to find this site. Re-doing the gold bathroom and replacing most fixtures…. BUT, the old jet tub faucet cannot be replaced… Just read your great step by step instructions for PAINTING it! Thank you!

  79. Hi I’m Jamie and I really like your ides I recently started blog. It started of with us buying a handyman special house in hopes of giving our family a home. The work that needed to be done was more than we thought and since we didn’t really have the kind of money needed to have it renovated we started fixing it up on our own. We are new to both blogging and home improvement so any tips you might have would be really helpful and if your could share my website that would be great!

  80. I love your blog! It’s so great to see another woman building quality furniture, and altering other objects to purpose. Yay for doing things with our hands!

    I have just gotten married and moved into n apartment in Paris. It’s my first ‘serious’ long-term home, so I’m finally decorating everything to perfection. There is such satisfaction in looking around and knowing that I built so many of the things we need. My nature-loving husband likes that I repurpose and upcycle old things, saving them from the landfill.

    There’s so much about your blog that I relate to. Thank you so much for the inspiration – and information.

  81. Oh my goodness, I am so completely impressed with all of your work! I am a decorating blog fanatic, and I just found your blog today. I think it is my favorite ever! I just can’t get over your vision and skill! And, I love your use of color, I use a ton of color in my house. I can’t wait to see what else you come up with!

  82. You are a lady after my own heart. At age 63, my husband was away at work, and the house we moved into had an old fireplace with cracked and broken mortar and bricks falling out in the L.R. My husband had left a bag of mortar and tools. I was so nervous, but I went online to YouTube, DIY, etc. and learned the process of re-mortaring the brick. Wow, I was so proud – scared to death, but proud, at how it turned out. Love your blog site!
    QUESTION if I can – I have an old pink tile bathroom. Instead of taking all the tile off the walls, can I paint them with a high-gloss paint?

    1. I would advise using a paint that’s specifically made for use on tiles and in bathrooms. Rust-Oleum makes a tub and tile paint that is very good. I used it to paint my fiberglass tub in our last home, and it held up great for the eight months that we were there after I painted it. It stinks to high heaven, though, so be prepared to use one of those heavy duty masks to protect yourself from the fumes.

      Here’s the tub I painted: https://www.addicted2decorating.com/bathroom-makeover-day-11-how-to-paint-a-bathtub.html

  83. I LOVE the painted glass backsplash. Someone else asked this question, I know, but how do you deal with the electric socket openings? Would one be able to use mirror instead of glass? Thanks.

    1. I would personally use one of those new glass ones where you can create your own backing for it, and then I’d paint the back just like the backsplash.

  84. I love your decorating and would like if you can help me with my own decorating our one bed luxury apartment. I am having problems finding the right long curtains for all the windows in the bedroom
    and living room and would like your help. I love white and I have a big white leather sofa and an
    ottoman and would like to find an accent chair to go with it so I can put by the window and also an
    end table and also the big long window and would like your suggestions what would look so modern
    and luxury. I read your blog and would like also to do my own windows with your help. Thanks again
    and good luck with you.

    1. Hi Maria~
      Unfortunately, I’m not actually able to help people with decorating their homes, but I do have some tutorials on my blog (click DIY Projects at the top and scroll through) for making your own draperies. Extra long draperies generally have to be custom made, and you can save a ton of money by making them yourself. I walk you through the process in those tutorials.

  85. Beautiful French doors

    Can you tell me what kind of door you used? Was it an interior hollow core door? That is what I have and wondering if I can do this and how.

  86. Kristi, you did a project of a small buffet that you painted mystical forest with Behr paint. I went and looked up mystical forest and there is no listing for that in the Behr Paint registry. By chance do you still happen to have the can paint with the recipe on the top? Thank you kindly

    1. Hi Jennifer~
      I’ve used a color called Mythic Forest several times. It’s a dark teal. But I don’t remember one called Mystical Forest. Do you have the link to the project where I used the color you want?

  87. Kristi,

    I love the interaction that you have with so many DIYers! I’ve learned a lot from you blog on various projects that I will use in my own home.

    Dale Allaire | for Adhesive Technologies, ProTouch

  88. Kristi,

    I stumbled across your website today. I thoroughly enjoyed how your organized both of your homes into before and after and then each room had specific DIY posts – very organized. I love before and afters, so that part was great. I am blown away by your ability to build, nail, saw, etc! I then turned to your bio and that was neat to read. I love that you followed your call to blog and work on your own home and that you are so happy doing it. I had a design business and now I am a realtor. I love being creative and decorating too. I have been slowly working on my blog and website, but to do it full time must be thrilling! I too love the thrill of the hunt for good deals and decorating on that infamous shoe string! Keep creating and inspiring!

  89. Your wainscoting is all I needed to see to know that you are a woman after my “decorating” heart LOL…love your site and while I’ll be more toward Corpus Christi way in a couple of years, your inspiration is helping me put in all those design details into the house we will be building.

    Looking forward to reading more about your decorating journey!

    Kind regards,
    Stacy
    California (for the moment)

  90. Ran across your blog after searching redoing butcher blocks. Very helpful. Like your bio.
    After a divorce from a marriage of 40 years I moved back to Ohio from New Orleans. From my settlement(which he didn’t give me much) I purchased a home for $14,000 dollars and am using the rest to fix it up, and I do mean a lot of fixing up. It is now livable but still needs tender touches.. I’m sure I’ll be visiting your site a lot in the future.
    Thanks for the tip on the butcher block.
    Teri

  91. Hi Kristi,
    Can you tell me how you finished the tops of the tufted “buttons” in this blog https://www.addicted2decorating.com/diy-ottoman-coffee-table-part-1-how-to-do-diamond-tufting.html
    i see that you say “the finishing touch with this method of tufting is to cover your buttons with fabric (be sure to remove any metal loop from the backs so that they’re flat on back), and use an adhesive to glue the buttons to the screws.” How exactly is this done? Are there button tops i’m missing? How do you glue the fabric cleanly without fraying to the screw tops?
    Alison

  92. Hi Kristi,

    So happy to find your blog! Now that I have, I’m so excited to get focused on really decorating my house. There are times I feel like I am going in circles trying to decorate my house, so many ideas jumping around in my head, and I can’t seem to pull it all together, like a lot of people I am budget minded always looking to get a great deal when shopping. I moved into my current house a few years ago, the price was right and I like the house but I am dealing with some decorating issues. I am struggling to figure out ways to make my house look well put together yet comfortable. I am so happy to find your blog, hopefully I can get some great ideas to use on my house.

  93. I was looking for a way to lighten up some furniture that was given to me and TaDa when you look for distressing a piece of furniture yours is number 1 on Google. I am glad it was because the dresser you did is exactly what I was looking for.

    Thank you for being a blogger !!!

  94. Hi. I left you a comment/question on your post about concrete counters but then read your “about” page. I just had to comment because i feel we are kindred spirits on the level of being satisfied more so with doing things yourself. Building, sewing, creating it all with your own hands and getting complete satisfaction from it. I’m the type if I don’t do something creative I start to go insane. I feel like I’m losing myself if I don’t have a project.
    Anywho. Love your blog and will visit frequently, I’m sure.

  95. HI Krsity,

    I am about to sand adn paint an old dresser. I read your “how-to” ubt I was wondering about the handles. I do not liek the brass drawer ahndle and would liek to know how to change the color. Is it the same as when you painted the faucet fixtures?

    1. Yes, that method should work well. Sand, prime, and paint. You might not need to use a clear coat, though. I rarely use a clear coat on dresser hardware.

      1. I was just looking online for the Rust-Oleum Automobile Primer and it has been discontinued and no longer sold in our area. What other kind of primer can I use on the brass handles?

          1. Ok, thank you. I also need to ask, how do I tell if a dresser is real wood or veneer? Do I have to sand then primer and sand again before painting no matter if its real wood or veneer?

  96. Hi Kristi,

    My current partner recently asked me what it is I would really like to be spending my time doing and I said something artistic … but then I came upon your blog last night and WOW you are inspiring. In the past I was married to an interior designer and together re-worked and flipped 5 houses in 15 years. (I wish I had kept pictures).

    I have since moved to CA and have been renting. After staying up to 1am last night reading your blog – I know I have to have my own house again and start decorating. I can’t believe how much I miss all the painting, ripping up of old carpet, tearing out of kitchens – all of it!!! Thank you for opening up my eyes to my true passion. I will keep you posted 🙂

  97. Hello Kristi,

    I really want to make a mural on my wall – I currently use permanent markers on canvas for my art as it is extremely detailed. I would like to do the same on the wall but I’m not sure whether permanent markers would last. I’ve been doing a lot of research and also came across water-based paint markers & oil-based paint markers but I am very confused.

    Could you please advise me on whether permanent markers/paint markers are ok to use on my indoor wall?

    1. I’m so sorry, but I somehow missed your comment! If you haven’t done the project yet, I can tell you that I had success with permanent markers from Office Depot (their store brand). Sharpies didn’t work on my wall. I also had a professional muralist tell me that Marks-a-Lot brand markers were the best for walls because it won’t fade over time, but I couldn’t find that brand locally. I wouldn’t use water-based markers.

  98. Hi Kristi – I just googled, “are plantation shutters ‘out’?” and found your blog and was great to read your thoughts on plantation shutters. Thanks for adding visuals to illustrate what should and should not be done. The thing that struck me the most, and perhaps the thing I needed to see/read, is that “you felt alive” when doing your decorating. I desperately need to feel alive again. You have helped inspire me to work on some artwork. Thanks.

  99. Hi Kristi!

    I just moved into a ranch style home built in the late 40’s. The kitchen is very dated and I love your condo kitchen makeover. I’m inspired by it but don’t know where to start as far as painting the cabinets. Did you use a sprayer or paint them by hand?

  100. Hello
    I have a question about the table and chairs
    You said you used AS Olive Chalk Paint
    Did you use Dark wax or Black wax or both when you did them?

    Thank you so much for your time

    Chyree

    1. I don’t know what table and chairs you’re talking about, but I’ve never used AS Olive Chalk Paint. I’ve only tried Chalk Paint twice, hated it, and never used it again.

  101. Hi Kristi,
    I love the built-in bookcase and daybed with trundle that you previously made for your niece. Would you happen to have a template of the headboard design and sides of the bed or “bookshelf extensions” that were also the sides of the bed? I would like to attempt something like this for my 3 yr old granddaughter with storage drawers instead of the trundle (space is limited so this is more practical for her) but the curved sides have proven to be a bit tricky for me.
    Thanks!

  102. Hello Kristi,

    I am delighted to find your Blog. I’d like to paint a couple of pieces of furniture and read your ‘words of wisdom’…may you share your favourite brand of paint (painting chairs/ wooden candle holder).

    Thanks!

    Moira

    1. I like two different options for painting furniture. The first option is to use Benjamin Moore Advance paint. It’s amazing quality and dries very hard and durable. The drawback to Advance is that the lowest sheen it comes in is Satin, and in darker colors, it looks semi-gloss to me. I don’t like high sheen finishes. So the other option I really like, and which does allow me to get a matte or true satin finish, is to use a paint like Behr (from Home Depot) to paint the furniture, and then topcoat with General Finishes High Performance Topcoat in a matte or satin finish. (I prefer the matte.) It’s a very high quality topcoat and works beautifully whether it’s sprayed or brushed on. I buy mine on Amazon.

  103. I would like to know if Cornices are out dated. Someone told me they are a rage right now, but I haven’t personally seen them in any homes.
    I was thinking about putting 2 in my new home.
    What do you think?

    Thank you,

    1. I think cornices can be very pretty as long as they’re used right. Whether or not they look outdated depends on several things, like the shape, the height, the fabric you cover them with, etc. If you use an outdated fabric, or make your cornice 4 inches high, or use shirred fabric on them, then yes, they will look like Goodwill finds from the 80s. But if you use current fabric, perhaps make the cornice in a more modern shape, make them a substantial height (I would suggest no less than 12 inches), and possibly even use them with drapery panels, they can be very current.

  104. Thank you Kristi I appreciate your help.
    I was planning on using them without panels and they would be about 18 to 19 inches.
    I have remote control roll shades on the triple wide sliders that I want to put them on and I am going to paint a color on the wall around the sliders that is why I thought of not using panels. What do you think?

  105. Hi Kristi,

    I just ran across your blog as I was searching for pony wall ideas on Pinterest. Immediately, I was drawn to your simplicity, yet finesse! Thank you for sharing your work, I’ll begin replicating the pony wall this Saturday- Wish me luck!

  106. Kristi I am wondering if I got unsubscribed as I no longer get your updates. When I tried to subscribe again, I got a note saying mailing list not active. Can you add me back?
    Many thanks!

    1. Looks like there was a technical issue with my newsletter service. I’m so glad you commented about it, or I may not have ever noticed! Looks like it’s fixed now, so you should get the updates again.

  107. Just love your blog! I was just wondering if you knew of any online design sites where I can upload a photo and play with different ideas, both interior and exterior? Hopefully free but would consider sites where you have to pay to join. Just would love being able to try out different ideas before taking the leap and going forward and then not being happy with the result!

    1. I really don’t. I just use a photo editing program to do mock ups when I want to try out ideas. But if you find one, I’d love to know about it!

  108. Hi Kristi,

    I came across your blog site 2 days ago and looked some of your work. Blew my mind. I just don’t know how you did it, but they are all amazing. Thank you for sharing the journey with the rest of us. There is one thing, if you don’t mind, that I’m super interested in. The color of your interior doors. You mentioned it’s custom color. I’m in love with that and appreciate your pointer. Thanks and all the very best!

  109. Came across your video by accident….to me there is great style and love those doors you have chosen for entry and within your home leading you from room to room. I see lots of annabelles, snowballs, lavender and lilacs and yews to frame your home and stepping stones leading up to your home. Think of a stone patio in lieu of concrete. Concrete is flat and you are not a visually “flat” person. This home is a great find with great bones.

  110. Just found your Kristi! Wow! You are me (only Younger,Prettier, and Much More Talented!).
    You are the First person/blogger/even family member, that has NOT made me feel like I have a problem-lol. I am Constantly moving furniture-Repainting (for the 21st time like someone I know) a room which all think is just “fine”–Thank you hon for that…and your grace to Share your knowledge is truly a blessing to me and so many others.. Thank you Kristi.
    I found you by searching “Teal Velvet Sofa”! I just bought a used custom made Dark Teal French Chesterfield that I am soon picking up. SOOOO excited!! My ‘style” is victorian gothic. I’m redoing my all my paint colors-again-lol- and that piece will be the jewel in the room!
    Thank you again. will study all your ideas for encouragement that this 60 year old broad can do even more DIY’s! God Bless!!

  111. Oh my goodness what a talented and creative person you are!!! Love, love, love all your DIYs!!

    I have been searching online for at least 6 years to find solution to update the covering of my bathroom shower curtain ceiling track, and the distinctive 80’s style brass light fixture in the 12′ ceiling height entry way.

    Then I came upon your blog and just love the classy style in your finish projects. I love the hanging basket light and I am going to see how to use this on my light fixture. I also like how you dressed up your fireplace too, which was something in the back of my mind that I might do. Then your hallway cabinet is soooooo great to have a place for your kitty litter box. This may just the be the solution for me to have a dog!!

    Thank you for having this blog and looking forward to more fabulous ideas from you.

  112. Hi Kristi,

    Your response came up when I googled “difference between particle board and MDF”. I realize it’s somewhat atypical for a male to be responding on this blog, but I did it anyway to let you know there are probably more men out there than care to admit it who read your blog. In my case, I learned that your journey in life was similar to mine in that you spent many years being less than completely fulfilled with your life’s work and found more happiness getting your hands dirty with DIY projects. My dad was in the business of refinishing and upholstering furniture; and selling and installing drapes and carpeting; he worked as a consultant to his clients on all of these projects; and later in life he opened an antique store. I don’t know if you could call him a bona fide interior designer, but his work did exist in that orbit, and both my sister and I inherited his interest in and passion for decorative arts and took it a step further, although I now realize what a talented upholsterer he really was after trying to upholster furniture of my own!

    I, too, have been a writer all my life and I enjoy your style of writing. It’s fun to read. Conversational. iNow that I know you’re out there, I will certainly consult your blog again about other projects I undertake. Thank you!

    1. I’m so glad you commented, Ron! I do have a handful of men who follow my blog and comment regularly, and I imagine there are a few more who follow and read regularly but don’t comment. Glad you found me!

  113. I have think about painting my kitchen cabinets. They are a very orange color stain, which I hate. My question is how do I go about it and has your painted cabinets stood up well? Chipping?

  114. Hi Kristy. I agree with you. I do not like chalk paint. I can’t stand the feel of it. UGH! I do not like the farm house look at all. In addition, it breaks my heart to see all the antiques that people are painting instead of restoring. I would rather have an antique in it’s natural state,( good or bad), than to see it covered in chalk paint. I will be glad when people get over the chalk paint fad. When it is over, they will be sad they painted their antiques.

  115. Hi Kristi, I just now found your amazing blog and I am a FAN! I was researching board & batten shutters and your gorgeous shutters came up. I started reading about your DIY projects and I am hooked! You have a wonderful vision and talent. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us. You are an inspiration!!

  116. Kristi,

    Glad to meet you (on line). Your passion is remarkable. But, your gift of artistic sense is divine.

  117. omg, i just found your blog & love it. At this moment, they are staining my hardwood floors (1/2 of it was put down in 1990, the other 2 sections about 15 years ago) the 50/50 combination. 🙂 Thanks for all of your awesome DIY projects. So fun to read!

  118. My wife does resin and alcohol ink tiles. I was wondering when you used yours as a back splash what kind of grout did you use? I am afraid grout would scratch the resin.
    thanks for the info.

  119. Hello Darling Kristi,
    I recently discovered your blog. I think you are amazing! I live in Montreal, Quebec, but after parsing through your lovely blog I wanna move onto your block so that we can become friends! I am your biggest fan (after Matt, of course!). I love your blog and your design ideas. Thank you for blogging and sharing your photos and design concepts with us!
    Best,
    Laura

  120. Hello Kristi,

    Mahalo Nui Loa for your advice and showing your journey in remodeling. We are in the middle of a full house remodel of our 25 year old home. Right now we are working on a kitchen remodel with pour in place (140sqft total countertop area) white concrete countertops. We would like to use the polyurea type of finish that you profiled. After reading your post and followups, I’m still a bit confused.

    If you were doing over it now, would you prime the bare concrete surface with a regular oil based primer (none of the plastic like primer), then follow that with the white base coat and the three sponged colour coats? We are looking to make the same effect that you did, which looks very elegant. 🙂 After lots of searching, I have found a supplier of polyurea that will sell to the public. Woo hoo!!! So I will be applying it myself. Mahalo again for your efforts!!!

    Cheers,
    Steve

    1. I would stick with the primer that the Garage Force guy put on there. If I remember correctly, I ended up using my white oil-based primer on the ogee edges of my countertop, and the area in front of the sink (i.e., the area that I lean against when I wash dishes) has formed bubbles underneath. That hasn’t happened anywhere else, only the ogee edge in front of the sink.

  121. I just have to write and say, like some of those listed above, I just came across your site today and the sliding French barn doors …. OMG to DIE for!! I just started my first DIY reno project … the kitchen. I have a doorway that I needed to cover but didn’t want a solid door so I was searching for options and WOW, what you did is AMAZING!
    I am so grateful to you for posting your projects, I will be attempting this door. And I will definitely be checking out your other projects.
    Thank you again for this blog!!!!

  122. Hi Kristi! I just read your post about your Butler Room. Good grief you’re inspiring! Love the tiles. No seriously, LOVE the tiles. I’m curious about the grout. Did you use a special kind so it did scratch the tiles? I have a backsplash behind my stove that seriously needs some attention. After all the work on the tiles, I’m a bit nervous to grout them.

  123. Hello! Quiet reader here but I’m always so impressed by your artistry and skill. Your tutorials, esp the kitchen cabinet painting has been so helpful. I am also almost done with cerused table!! Thank you so much! Such great tutorials! I had a quick question/suggestion for you. Have you heard of epoxy countertops? It’s all over YouTube. I’m not skilled at all and someone who does epoxy garage floors suggested against it but it doesn’t look hard at all so I was wondering if you have heard of using epoxy countertops (to mimic marble) on countertops since you do the art with epoxy. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. Thank you!

  124. Hi Kristy. There are so many comments on your blog. I hope this isn’t a repeat question. It has been several years since you posted about the floral couch you painted. I’m wondering if it stood the test of time. Do you still have it and did the paint continue to adhere? Thanks much, Connie Barillas (recently retired and looking for projects)

    1. I don’t have it anymore, but I had it for quite a while. And on the last day I had it, it looked exactly like it did the first day I painted it. I was so shocked at how well it held up. It’s not a sofa I’d want to keep long term, but certainly as a temporary solution while saving up for a nicer sofa, or as a sofa to put in a play room or something like that, it’s a great solution.

  125. Kristi – I just bought the Critter sprayer that you use and I can’t believe how easy it is to use and what an outstanding job it does! I am painting the interior side of a steel exterior door. My paint color is similar to your color also on your front door. I originally did 2 coats with a high quality brush and roller but wasn’t completely happy with it. I ordered the Critter and just finished 2 light coats with it. I love it! Thanks for all the advice you give. Now I am to look at some of your projects to see if I can build a bench for a my room area! TY and I love your blog and your advice!

  126. Hi Kristi! Just came across your site – love it! I read your post about using the General Finishes topcoat over Benjamin Moore Advance paint. Curious how that’s held up and if that’s something you’d still recommend. I’m refinishing my kitchen table and used Advance, but want to add a topcoat for extra durability – especially with three young kids at home! Thanks!

    1. My kitchen cabinets have held up perfectly. The General Finishes High Performance Topcoat is still my go-to product any time I need a water-based, non-yellowing topcoat. I have read that it’s not great to use over white acrylic paint, but I’ve never once had a problem with it over colors. It’s a far superior product to any other water-based clear coat I’ve ever used.

  127. I’ve been scrolling through your product source page to see if there are any websites I’ve missed while ISO a new bathroom lighting fixture. I feel like at one point you had a post about where you like to shop online, maybe organized by category? Or maybe I just wish you did? If it exists, can you point me to it? Or if it doesn’t, would you consider adding a tab in your source page that includes your favorite websites for lighting, furniture, hardware, etc.? You always find such unique pieces and while I know what I want exists (I’ve seen it in my mom’s house!) I’m having trouble finding more than one source.

  128. Kristi,
    I follow your blog through email and on Facebook and am always impressed with your work. I am 74 and especially impressed with your photos of finished rooms and how neat and clean everything is! I know you probably just cleaned before your took the picture, but would love to see a blog on how you keep those wood floors so clean and how you avoid the clutter of living (newspaper, magazines, junk mail, etc.). I live in rural Tennessee so dust abounds! Thanks!

  129. Thank you so much for your recommendation of using mineral oil for butcher block countertops. I am building a new house and have read so much about the various products that I couldn’t decide what to do. Your post made it clear to me that mineral oil was the way I should go. The color of the countertops is absolutely gorgeous! How does it hold up to standing water? My husband doesn’t realize how many puddles he leaves around the sink which is the only reason I would consider a film finish like polyurethane. What are your thoughts?

    1. As long as the countertops stayed oiled regularly, I never had a problem with water. Since I’d clean my kitchen and wipe down the countertops at least once a day, nothing stood on the countertops for more than 24 hours. It was never a problem for me.

  130. Hello Kristy,

    I am Janice; I am writing to you from Venezuela. I identify with you because I love everything DIY, and I’m trying to build the house of my dreams (by myself too).

    I love your blog and your work; there is nothing that you have designed that I do not like. You have exquisite taste.

    A few weeks ago, I came to your blog for a post about a table that you said you had bought for the dining room. The fact is that I have purchased a Chippendale table and chairs (for just 50$), and I have sanded and repaired it. They are ready to paint, but it has been weeks since I have been able to decide.

    The living room and dining room are in the same space. The floor is beige marble, the window frames are brown, and I have white leather sofas. Everything is very neutral. Hope you can guide me. I always see if you have already put the photos of your dining room, LOL.

    Thank you for sharing and for inspiring us,

    Cheers,

    Jani

  131. Fellow Texan here, so happy to have found you (based on the fireplace wall redo). Your skills & attitude are incredible! I am definitely a new fan, keep up the good work!

  132. Hi! I do Alcohol ink tiles and apply resin to them for coasters. Friends of mine own a reno company and he is an award winning tiler. They asked if I would be willing to make some tiles to use as backsplash or as accents in the tile walls (around top edges etc.). my question is how did you grout and did it make scratches in the resin? That’s my only worry. THANK YOU!

  133. Love love 💕 the vibe you have created in your home! Thanks for sharing…so inspiring!

    Really interested in your grasscloth paint technique

    I have struggled with the same issues…want the look , but not the bill

    Your result is great….thinking about doing your technique on a stairwell wall in our contemporary 1990 built Florida home

    Would love feedback on that idea.

    Will send or post a picture…but where??

  134. Hi Kristi,
    I have always loved following your prodjects.
    I have a narrow converted garage/family room, I’m looking to update into sitting area / playroom for my 3 grands.
    Could use your advise on how to go about the organization and use of this space.
    You can cantact me through my email. Would love to pay for your services.
    Best
    Eileen

  135. Hey Kristi
    I loved your teak shower niche shelf, I am inspired to do one
    Previously I was considering doing it with composite decking but much prefer teak to match my vanity
    What did you finish it with? little worried that it will stain or need high maintenance
    Look forward to your advice
    Simone

  136. You did an amazing job on the remodeling of your home. I love your colors and everything is just so beautiful. I’m looking forward to watching all of your projects.

  137. I stumbled upon your website when I was looking for a fabric that cats could not scratch up on my furniture. In your article you said that leather was a good choice. I just wanted to let you know that my cat has ruined my $3500 leather sectional which I bought at least 15 or 20 years ago so I’d probably cost $7500 today! I just wiped it down with olive oil and sometimes I use pledge and it covers the scratches for a minute or two and then I get out a quilted cover, I am the queen of cleanliness and organization, and at age 78 my friends cannot believe that I have a cat! But she is great company and helps lower my blood pressure so I guess I’ll keep her! I do need some new recliners and I was thinking about getting velvet as I have had velvet fabrics before and my stepdaughter has two chairs of mine that I bought in the 90s and the fabric still looks brand new. So I may consider velvet for new recliners I love your decorating and wish you the best of luck in your business.

  138. Hi Kristi

    I enjoy art and like to dabble in making objects into art, either as functional objects or something to hang on the wall or put out as a center piece. I love all the pieces you have created, that I’ve seen. I am here to ask for your advice. I would like to immortalize a pair of canvas tennis shoes, as they are, for sentimental reasons? I would like to preserve them and put them in perhaps a tasteful relief frame for hanging on the wall. I’ve been to enough abstract art museums, to have gotten the idea, having seen so many objects set to art but don’t know how they went about turning them into solid art/objects. I have done some research and seen ideas for polyurethaning, if that’s the trick, but do not want there to be the chance of discoloring. I like the idea of hardening the shoes or just sealing them in some way or doing nothing to them, if that be the case, before “framing” them. I’m not sure about the best way to go about this. Ideally, I would like the vantage to be looking at them from above, set next to each other, soles down (i.e. soles against the wall so the vantage is looking at them top down). Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

    1. If I had something like that with sentimental value, I wouldn’t do anything to them directly. By that, I mean that I wouldn’t apply any product to them. I would simply arrange them in a deep shadow box frame and make sure they’re fully covered to preserve them. Anything you add to them to harden them will potentially yellow over time.

  139. Omg Christi I think we were separated at birth. So many of your stories ring true as if I were reading about myself, my life, my decorating failures and even some successes. I am so glad I stumbled upon your blog. It’s easy to feel like you’re alone in the DIY chaos especially when you do most of the work yourself. We moved from CA to Texas and our new house is like a blank canvas to create DIY projects. It’s fun but overwhelming. The depression when you get stuck is real but if it goes as planned the satisfaction of a completed DIY that you actually like makes it worth it… not so much if you hate it though.

  140. I love how you built your steps. I have been trying for many months to figure out how to cover my concrete steps that are eighty five years old and in bad shape and also too steep for my short legs. The step stringers at the big box stores will not work with my existing steps. You’re idea is ingenious. I have been remodeling on my house for years and I have done most of it myself.