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Selecting Throw Pillows

gathering of lines selecting throw pillows

A great strategy when designing your home is to keep the investment pieces neutral and add color in the less-expensive accent pieces (like curtains, blankets and throw pillows). Throw pillows are an inexpensive way to add color and fun to a room. Bonus- they are easy to change out as your style changes.

*This site contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase items or services through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help reduce the costs of running this site. So Thank You in advance for any clicks through!

Selecting Throw Pillows with Lines

These are fun because they add some pattern without adding chaos to your design.

selecting throw pillows
Copyright © 2019 Little Dean Link to purchase is here.
selecting throw pillows
Copyright © 2019 nileshkikuuchise. Link to purchase is here.
Copyright © 2019 olivia stjames. Link to purchase is here.
selecting throw pillows
Copyright © 2019 olivia stjames. Link to purchase is here.
Copyright © 2019 Babylon Vibes. Link to purchase is here.

Selecting Throw Pillows with Florals

Warning, it’s about to get all feminine up in here. Here are some of my favorite versatile floral prints.

selecting throw pillows
Copyright © 2019 akniramb. Link to purchase is here.
gathering of lines
Copyright © 2019 by Crystal W Design Link to purchase is here.
selecting throw pillows
Copyright © 2019 Anis Illustration Link to purchase is here.
Copyright © 2019 cafelab Link to purchase is here.

Mix your patterns with solid color pillows

The options above are great in small doses. I’d recommend buying two matching pillows from the options above and pairing them with two solid pillows. The solids will help balance the busyness of the prints.

For example, pair two of these leopard pillows with two of the solid dark blue pillow below.

gathering of lines
Copyright © 2019 Megan Galante  Link to purchase is here.
Copyright © 2019 Make it Colorful Link to purchase is here.
Copyright © 2019 Crystal W Design. Link to purchase is here.
Copyright © 2019 Make it Colorful. Link to purchase here.

Thank you for stopping by Gathering of Lines! Want to add some more interest to your room? Check out my article on curtain ideas, link here.

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Decorating Rooms with Odd Angles

Gathering of lines decorating rooms with odd angles

Bonus rooms over the garage are wonderful. They add extra square footage to your house and often make for the perfect extra bedroom. But something I’ve been avoiding for a while (umm 3 years) is adding artwork to the walls.

I tried a few different options and I’d love to get your opinion about decorating rooms with odd angles in the comments below. Which option do you think works better in this room?

The First Option

Decorating Rooms with Odd Angles
Gathering of lines
Copyright © 2019 Gathering of Lines

For the first option, I added some three-dimensional elements with the wood snowflake mirrors. I kept the pieces grounded by maintaining an overall rectangular shape. The gold hues in the Da Vinci self-portrait, mimic the gold hues in the Eiffel Tower painting. For those who are interested, the Eiffel Tower painting is for sale here.

Decorating Rooms with Odd Angles
Gathering of lines
Copyright © 2019 Gathering of Lines

I also like how the black frame ties in the with the black Eiffel Tower motif, but that there is also this silver frame, with the photo of the Venetian gondolier, that ties in with the silver-ish tones of the snowflakes (more information about the snowflakes can be found here).

Every image and piece has a special significance to me. I played around with different pieces by using thumbtacks to hang them at first (Before committing to a nail in the wall).

The Second Option

Decorating Rooms with Odd Angles
Gathering of lines
Copyright © 2019 Gathering of Lines

For this option, I added some three-dimensional interest with a small basket my grandmother made (on the top left). I tied in the black frames with the Eiffel Tower painting again but also pulled in a cream frame to match the bedding and table lamp (Side note- I just love cream and white bedding. It’s so serene and easy to keep clean with a little bleach).

Decorating Rooms with Odd Angles
Gathering of lines
Copyright © 2019 Gathering of Lines

The Third Option

Or do you think I’m better off skipping the gallery wall and just hanging a single large piece of artwork?

Thank you for stopping by Gathering of Lines – what are your home decor dilemmas? Leave them for me in the comments below!

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Creative Curtain Options: Curtain Buying Guide

*This site contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase items or services through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help reduce the costs of running this site. So Thank You in advance for any clicks through!

Curtains are a great way to add personality to any room (bonus- they are easy to update as your style changes over the years). In my post about How to Pick a Paint Color (link here), I wrote about choosing neutrals for the walls and using curtains to add color and pattern to a room. Below you’ll find some creative curtain options for standard-sized curtains.

Creative Curtain Options: Curtain Buying Guide. Gathering of Lines
Copyright © 2019 Anneke Doorenbosch Link to purchase is here.

These curtains are great for bedrooms as they are available in a blackout option. Blackout curtains are the key to a good nights sleep in my opinion!

These green and white curtains feel easy-breezy to me. Something about the colors and patterns gives such a carefree feel.

Creative Curtain Options: Curtain Buying Guide. Gathering of Lines
Copyright © 2019 Caitlin Workman.  Link to purchase is here.

Orange and pink may seem like scary colors to use when decorating. But I say, if you love ’em use ’em.

Copyright © 2019 Colour Poems. Link to purchase is here.
pink curtains
Copyright © 2019 Beautiful Homes. Link to purchase is here.
Copyright © 2019 Nancy J’s Photo Creations. Link to purchase is here.

I love blue and it’s often hard to find something that’s not navy or light blue. I had to find some mid-range blue options for this curtain buying guide.

blue curtains
Copyright © 2019 Nancy J’s Photo Creations. Link to purchase is here.
Copyright © 2019 Colour Poems. Link to purchase is here.

These curtains don’t add much color but they do add some dimmension and sophistication.

Copyright © 2019 Beautiful Homes. Link to purchase is here.

Thank you for stopping by Gathering of Lines Home Design. What are your favorite curtain options? Leave them in the comments below!

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3 Decor Websites That Support Artisans Worldwide

The Little Shop Trinket Tray

When visiting the homes of people I love and admire, the decor elements that inspire me the most are the ones that have a story. This post is a buyer’s guide for affordable home decor elements that are made by artisans from around the world. These three websites make it easy to buy home accents that will not only beautify your home or office but will also support artisans so that they can continue to create important work.

1.) The Little Market

www.thelittlemarket.com/

3 decor websites that support artisans worldwide - the little shop
Copyright © 2019 The Little Market. Link to purchase is here.

The Little Market is a fair trade stop with a big heart. Their mission creates opportunities for customers to find and buy products made by hardworking artisans from around the world. At The Little Market, you’ll find bags, totes, jewelry, dishes, towels and more. These trinket trays are stylish for any bathroom counter or bedside table and would make great gifts as well!

Copyright © 2019 The Little Market. Link to a collection of ceramic trays & boxes here.

Another favorite find from The Little Market is this woven tray. It would be great on a coffee table or hung on the wall as it is definitely a work of art.

Copyright © 2019 The Little Market. Link to purchase is here.

2.) Serrv

www.serrv.org/

3 decor websites that support artisans worldwide -serrv
Copyright © 2019 serrv.org. Link to purchase is here.

Serrv is another fair trade shop that has its heart set on keeping artisans employed and passing on their craft to future generations. Here’s a quote from their website:

“Marginalized artisans and farmers who are empowered by sustainable employment, fair wages and safe working conditions find security and dignity in their work. They create stronger and healthier communities. They send their children to school. They hand down traditions of cultural craft.”

Copyright © 2019 serrv.org. Link to purchase blue throw is here.

This blue throw would be perfect to keep at the office for when it gets chilly and would also make a great gift!

Novica

www.novica.com/

3 decor websites that support artisans worldwide - novica
Photo Copyright © 2019 Gathering of Lines. Hand-carved panel can be purchased here.

Novica has sent over $92.5 million to artisans worldwide. I ordered two items from Novica, the hand-carved wall panel (photo above), and the snowflake wall mirrors (set of 3 – photo below). The shipping was fast and affordable (only $3.95 for the mirrors). And each item came with a note about who made the product and where it came from. I’ve said it before but what a perfect gift!

Photo Copyright © 2019 Gathering of Lines. Set of 3 mirrors can be purchased here.
Gathering of Lines home Design - Novica mirrors.
Photo Copyright © 2019 Gathering of Lines. Set of 3 mirrors can be purchased here

Thank you for checking out our post on 3 decor websites that support artisans worldwide. Want more ideas on how to support artists? Check out my post on the Top Etsy Shops for Baby Room.

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10 Things to Shop for at an Antique Mall or Flea Market

Gathering of Lines Home Design Decor Ideas

I am not going to lie – I love Ikea, Target, Pottery Barn, Home Goods, and Restoration Hardware. I also love old things that had a life before I bought them. My solution is to mix and match items from both worlds. I’m all about picking my favorites from the mass produced/widely available and combining them with one of a kind items from flea markets and antique malls.  Here’s my take on the top 10 things to shop for at an antique mall or flea market.

  • Mirrors
Gathering of Lines Antique mall wood Mirror

When it comes to mirrors, flea markets can have some architectural options. Keep in mind, sanding and staining, or repainting is always an option if the color doesn’t go with your vision.

Gathering of Lines Antique mall Mirror
Gathering of Lines Antique mall white Mirror
  •  Books

Antique books are so beautiful and a stack of your favorites can be the perfect accent to a desk or bedside table. Check out this cover of an old copy of “The Jungle Book” that I found at a flea market. It’d be perfect for my child’s room and it’s only a dollar!

Gathering of lines 10 items to look for at flea markets - books
  • Old Magazines

These are great because you can frame the cover, or an interesting page inside, and it creates one of a kind artwork

  • Small Tables

These are great for guest room night stands or to put out when you have extra chairs set up around the holidays. Bonus- they are usually pretty inexpensive.

  • Wood Structures

Old windows, doors, and frames add great dimension and warmth to home decor.

Gathering of Lines home decor ideas old windows
Gathering of Lines home decor ideas from an antique mall
  • Cast Iron Beauties
Gathering of Lines home decor ideas trivets
  • Vases

I bought this vase at an antique mall. While it is definitely not an antique (it says “not dishwasher safe” on the bottom haha), I love the color and that it can be used for candles, flowers, or just on its own. In this picture, I put it on our mantle with some coral that we found on our honeymoon.

Gathering of Lines home decor ideas vases
  • Fabric

Interesting fabric is fun to find at flea markets. Use them for table runners, table clothes, or to cut up and use as journal covers. Let me know in the comments if you’d like to see some ideas for a DIY Journal cover!

  • Vessels

I use this little guy for my hair ties and keep him on my closet shelf. They are great for post-it notes on your desk, or for keys on a table by the garage door.

Gathering of Lines home decor ideas vessels to store frequently used items
  • Dishes

Dinner plates can be hung on the wall as artwork. Water pitchers make beautiful vases, or to, you know, serve water haha.

Gathering of Lines home decor ideas water pitcher
Gathering of Lines home decor ideas use antique plates as artwork

Thank you for stopping by Gathering of Lines! What did you find on your latest flea market shopping trip? What should I add to my list the next time I go shopping? Let me know your ideas in the comments below!

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Travel: Toledo Botanical Gardens

Gathering of Lines black and white rose

Home decor and travel go hand in hand. What better photographs and accessories to use in your home than ones that remind you of a great trip with your friends and family?

Black and white peony photograph Gathering of Lines travel and artwork
Black and white peony – Gathering of Lines

You don’t have to buy a plane ticket to have a travel experience or create great art.

Pink peony photograph Gathering of Lines travel and artwork
Pink Peony – Toledo Botanical Gardens. Gathering of Lines Travel and Home Design

This past weekend, my family and I took a little stroll around the Toledo Botanical Gardens.

Purple flower photograph Gathering of Lines travel and artwork
Purple flower – Gathering of Lines

Here are some of my tips for taking a great photograph that you can use as artwork in your home:

  • Zoom in. This is especially great with nature, the purple flower above looks like a watercolor painting rather than a photograph.
  • Use the black and white setting on your phone. This can add a romance to your photograph and also helps cover up some imperfections (for example a petal that may be brown/decaying or to mask a red sunburn on your face).
  • Take pictures of flowers or trees that have a double meaning. Did you carry peonies at your wedding? Did your beloved Grandma always love violets? Does your Aunt Rose always give you a laugh? These double meanings will make you smile every time you pass the picture in the hallway.
  • Make sure interesting parts of the photograph intersect with the edges of the frame. For example – if you’re taking a photograph of a tree, make sure the tree trunk and branches lead your eye around to all four sides of the photograph. This is pleasing to the eye and helps your eye to move around the composition.
Tree and sky photograph gathering of lines travel
Make sure interesting parts of the photograph intersect with 3 or 4 sides of the frame.

Thank you for stopping by Gathering of Lines! Do you want to see more tips for photography and creating your own art? Let me know in the comments below and tag me on Instagram – I’d love to see your pics!

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Custom Home Decor Ideas for Shadow Box Frames

Gathering of Lines Shadow Box Decor Ideas
Gathering of Lines Shadow Box Art

I love using sentimental items in the artwork around my house. The best news is: it couldn’t be quicker or easier to create a personalized framed art piece for yourself or someone else.

Gathering of Lines Small Bow Tie
  • Start with an item you’d like displayed. A few years ago, my little son was a “ring bearer” at a wedding (Just a cute toddler in a tux with no ring bearing responsibilities haha). All day we kept saying, “Look at that tiny, cute, bow tie!” It was so small and cute that we just couldn’t handle it! 
  • Optional – add a picture where the cute item is being used/worn.
  • Find an inexpensive shadow box frame. These frames have up to an inch of clearance so the glass won’t crush whatever you put inside. Here are some great options:
    • 11″ X 14″ White
    • 11″ X 14″ Gray with hinged front. This is cool because you can open and close the front easily to change things up.
    • 8″ X 10″ Black – this one is very similar to the one I used for the bow tie.
  • Optional: add a cute background. I love the idea of using an old shirt, onesie, wallpaper that was taken down, handwritten notes, receipt from the night he/she proposed, or hospital blankets behind a picture, that way you will always have it on display.

It’s not just for kids or babies! I use a box frame to display family heirlooms (Old silver spoons that were passed down to me. They are not valuable in a monetary sense but they are priceless to me).

The background of the one above is a typed explanation from my Grandma who owned the spoons originally and how they were passed down through the family – pretty cool.

Other ideas for items to frame:

  • Flowers are awesome pressed into frames especially from special occasions!
Gathering of Lines Shadow Box Ideas
  • Souveniers from a trip – we bought this wood heart from a craftsman on a tropical vacation. I framed it with some inexpensive remnant fabric in the background.
  • Other ideas: key chains, Christmas ornaments that look like decorations (non-christmassy stars, snowflakes, etc make beautiful accents), Have a family member handwrite their award-winning recipe and put some antique measuring spoons in with it. Jewelry. (use small pins to hold it up in the box). Maybe the necklace you wore to your wedding, or that your mom, sister, brother wore.

The possibilities are endless!

Thank you for stopping by Gathering of Lines Home Design. Did you create your own shadow box masterpiece? If so take a pic and tag me on Instagram! I’d love to see your work.

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Deciding on a Master Bathroom Vanity

Gathering of Lines Home Design marble vanity, arched mirror, decor ideas

When my husband and I decided on our master vanity, we wanted something that looked like furniture and had storage.

Gathering of Lines Master Vanity, Vanity mirrors, marble vanity, marble master vanity

We got price quotes from our builder for custom cabinets and countertops that made our jaw drop. We found this vanity, instead, at Home Depot for 1/3 the price. This vanity has authentic marble countertops with beautiful details, lines, and plenty of storage.

I couldn’t find our exact vanity but this one is very similar.

Gathering of lines home design bathroom mirror ideas

As for the mirrors, we were looking to add a little personality in this department. Mirrors can be a budget-friendly way to add some character while still maintaining the resale value of the home. Instead of the boring rectangle, we went for these arched mirrors. I wasn’t able to find our exact mirrors as we got them on sale but similar ones can be found here.

I was dreaming of a beautifully styled bathroom. Pretty towels, scented candles, orchids…and…my husband’s allergy bottle, mouth wash, nail clippers…wait..huh.

I struggled with how to mix real life with beautiful decor in the bathroom and came up with a simple solution.

Gathering of Lines Home Design marble vanity, arched mirrors, home decorating ideas

Pretty basket= less cluttered look. It’s easy to maintain as my husband and I can simply throw the items back in a basket without having to think about it.

We aren’t constantly opening drawers and cupboards to look for the items we need every morning/evening and we still get a clean, polished, look.

Easy maintenance and easy on the eyes.

A similar basket can be found here.

Thank you for stopping by Gathering of Lines! Do you want be to create a master vanity buying guide? Let me know in the comments below!

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Small Price Tag ~ Custom Art Work

Gathering of Lines Home Design

Here at Gathering of Lines, I’m all about customizing home decor. While I love mass-produced art prints (and use them in my home), sometimes it’s nice to display artwork that has a meaning or memory that is specific to our family.

gathering of lines custom art

The mantel in our living room needed a piece of artwork. I wanted something that had a sense of humor but also captured the love I feel for my family.

My husband took this photo on our family vacation in Washington, D.C. when my son was 18 months old. He was running around the Jefferson Memorial and he got this shot on his iPhone (no fancy camera’s here). Sometimes the best pictures happen in the moment and all you have handy is your iPhone. It’s ok to use what you have!

Gathering of Lines Custom Art Work
  • I ordered the print on Shutterfly, size 20″ x 30″ for $18.39 +shipping (note, check out Shutterfly’s home page as they always have promo codes).
  • The frame is from Ikea (link here) size 24″ x 35 ¾” <–This size includes the mat. Your picture size with mat will be: Width: 19 ¾” Height: 27 ½” Since I ordered the 20″ x 30″ print this means that I’ll have 1/8″ overlap on the top/bottom and 1.25″ inches on either side of the print.

All in all, this cost us $42.97. Yet, it has been one of my favorite pieces to look at every day. No expensive photographer, no expensive camera, no expensive custom framing, no posing or special outfit, just a moment from a day of exploring with my husband and my little son that warms my heart.

Gathering of Lines Custom Art Work

Thank you for stopping by Gathering of Lines! Follow along on Instagram to see more ideas for home decor and artwork!

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How I Keep My Orchids Blooming

Beautiful, affordable, white orchid. How to keep the orchid blooming
How I keep my orchids blooming! (c) 2019 Gathering of Lines

Have you ever gotten a beautiful orchid and found that within ten days, all the blooms have fallen off and you’re left with leaves and two empty sticks? Orchids are a beautiful, affordable, way to add flowers to any room without having to buy an arrangement every week. My coworker gave me an excellent tip that I thought I’d share. The orchids in the photographs here have kept their blooms for 3 months now.

Close up of white orchid
gathering of lines blog
How I keep my orchids blooming! (c) 2019 Gathering of Lines

tips for keeping that orchid blooming

  1. Only water once per week. Every other week, I use a tablespoon measuring spoon and add 5 tablespoons of plain water. (some people use an ice cube, this hasn’t worked for my orchids in the past)
  2. On the alternate weeks, I use 5 tablespoons of a Miracle Grow Orchid Food/water mixture. It’s inexpensive and can be found for sale on Amazon (link below).
Side note – don’t you love that planter? I found it on sale here:
Miracle Grow Orchid Food

As the instructions indicate above, mix 1/4 teaspoon of orchid food with a gallon of water and you’re all set! I only use 5 tablespoons every other week so that gallon will last a long time. Find the orchid food here:

Thanks for stopping by Gathering of Lines – if you have any home decor posts you’d like to see, leave it in the comments below!

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