This post isn't my typical style; however, I had to share since my crafty husband just completed a fantastic project for our place. We've been collecting bottle caps for what seems like forever (um, about 8 years to be exact). What started as a fun way to chronicle our love of microbrews grew into a massive collection of caps from all over the world (although I admit there's quite a number of PBR's in there!).

This mosaic-style bottle cap table has a hard, poured resin surface-- very pub-like.


Bottle Cap Table with Poured Resin Surface - More DIY How To Projects

I've been thinking. I don't like my Northface luggage anymore.

Sure, she's rugged, tough and red. She managed herself ok on the hostel circuit. I didn't worry about her and the grimey-fingered airport baggage handlers. Yep, that was me dragging her up the escalators with a force that belies my 5'1 frame. And when we finally got home, she wasn't hurt when I irreverently tossed her in the basement paying no heed to our past travels together.


But isn't it time for a long-term relationship? Yes...I'm ready to invest in the real thing. I want to coo at my luggage and find a permanent spot for her in my life. She could just hang out in the living room with me while I watch True Blood.

Ok, considering my budget will always be more gypsy backpacker and less haute traveler, I need to manage my expectations. I seriously don't think I could roll through the typical Asian bus station with Louis in tow.


But if it was good enough for the Wes Anderson boys....then just maybe....

When I finally get my act together, I'm marching straight up Broadway and buying one of these...







Bokja Design is the collaboration between Hoda Baroud and Mari Hibri who use gorgeous vintage suzanis and textiles to create one of a kind furniture from their Beirut workshop. I believe their only showroom in the USA is at ABC Carpet & Home in NYC. Trust me, the trip to Manhattan is worth it just for these pieces!

Goodbye Scarf, Hello Bolster!

As you may (or may not) know, I love LOVE global-flavored patterns. So when I found a faux-silk scarf from H&M with a pink, lime green and black ikat-inspired pattern for $12....well...well...I'm just mad I didn't clear the place out. Then I could be showing you a sexy window treatment to go along with this fab bolster pillow.

My inspiration is the above image from Domino Magazine.

But I also like this one from Madeline Weinrib.



I started with a long, skinny bolster from Pillowflex. And got some strange looks on the subway ride home.

I measured twice.

Ok, maybe thrice.

Finished one edge by hand thanks to my sewing bible.

And viola!

Yes, now I remember. When I was young I dreamed about this....



...and this.

What girl (or full grown woman) couldn't imagine spending a summer day relaxing in this gypsy wagon?

The Parasol is the Umbrella’s Daughter
Emily Dickinson

At last year's New York Gift Fair I came across a few vendors selling Balinese parasols. Although my instinct is to buy, buy, buy; I'm wondering if many people feel like me: Parasols are adorable, but what do I **do** with it? Pack it in sand at Coney Island? While I test the parasol market, here's another round-up of inspired decor.....