A Classic Look That Never Dies

There is no need to envy those home decorating magazine layouts that feature beautiful arrangements of dried flowers on every table. You can have them too! In fact, it’s easy and affordable to dry flowers yourself.

To begin, turn flowers upside down, secure them with a rubber band and hang them in a dry place. You can do this with almost any type of flower right after it has been cut or even a few days later. Once they are dry, arrange the flowers loosely in a clear vase. Another beautiful option is to cut a piece of oasis to the size of any flowerpot, push it down into the pot and stick the dried flowers into the oasis. You can also use this technique in a ceramic vase, deep bowl or basket.

Flowers on Table

For those of you who don’t have the creative flair or time, a variety of completed dried flower arrangements are also available.

Even if you don’t have a big backyard, you can still create a backyard retreat. These days, outdoor furniture manufacturers are producing small-scale pieces for practically any size patio. Some chairs can double as dining and reclining chairs to avoid cluttering your small space. For the finishing touches, add a small cafe table, candles and garden lanterns - your special area for relaxed summer dining and evening entertaining will be complete.

When selecting furniture, make certain that it is made of a material that will withstand years of wear and winter weather. Vinyl-coated mesh chairs can be left out year-round and are easily cleaned with a hose. Wood, iron or metal pieces may need to be treated or specially maintained.

To revamp your old outdoor furniture and give it a good-as-new look, try covering it with loose-fitting slipcovers. Mix vibrant striped fabrics with floral patterns; or, choose some brilliant island solids such as kiwi, yellow and sea blue to achieve a contemporary feel. If you don’t want to use slipcovers, drape colorful quilts over your old furniture. Add some pillows and you’ve created an outdoor patio or garden setting that is warm, casual and inviting.

For those of you who like to spend a good deal of time outdoors, especially at the beach, consider dusting off those old chairs and re-covering them with new fabrics. You can use bright colors and bold patterns to bring new life to your favorite beach chairs. Have fun and choose fabrics and colors you would not ordinarily choose for your home.

For those of you who like to spend a good deal of time outdoors, especially at the beach, consider dusting off those old chairs and re-covering them with new fabrics. You can use bright colors and bold patterns to bring new life to your favorite beach chairs. Have fun and choose fabrics and colors you would not ordinarily choose for your home.

If you don’t have sling chairs, outdoor furniture manufacturers are offering many innovative chair designs. Made of quality, durable materials, some of these pieces even recline. To perfect your purchase, you can choose from a wide variety of fabrics to cover your new chairs.