 Adding art into your decor is a great way to bring personality to your space. Did you know that you can easily create art using Dixie Belle Paint? Creating your own art doesn’t have to be intimidating. I will show you how you can make your own contemporary abstract art that your family and friends will swoon over. Here is what you need and the steps to create your own art. Materials
Step 1 Paint five canvases in Dixie Belle’s Cotton and 1 canvas in Caviar.   Step 2 Once the paint has dried, it’s time to plan the design. Place two of the canvases side by side.  Using your pencil, draw half a circle on one of the canvases. You can also use a can to draw an outline if needed. Keep in mind, the great thing about art is that it doesn't need to be perfect.  Draw the other half of the circle on the other canvas. This will create a full circle when you place both canvases together. Paint each half circle in Caviar.    Using a dry brush, gently brush the wet paint around the outline of your half circles. This will hide any imperfections. Step 3 On the next canvas, tape a slightly diagonal line from the bottom to the top of the canvas.  Tape another two lines in a X pattern over the center line.   Add a horizontal line where the other lines meet.  Paint the canvas in Cotton and remove the tape while the paint is still wet.    Step 4 On the fourth canvas, tape a vertical line slightly more than half of your canvas.  Paint the smaller side in Caviar.  On the fifth canvas, tape a horizontal line slightly more than half of your canvas.  Paint the smaller section of each canvas in Caviar and remove the tape while it’s wet. Using a dry brush, gently brush the wet paint. This will give it a faded effect.  Step 5 On the final canvas, dab a good amount of Caviar on a small artist brush. Starting at the top left, make small brush strokes in a line moving toward the right side of the canvas. Keep about an inch to an inch and a half between each stroke.  Create another line of brushstrokes moving from left to right approximately 2 inches below your first line. Continue this step until you have filled your canvas. Remember this doesn’t need to be perfect.   Step 6 Once your artwork has dried, paint the sides of each canvas to give it a polished look.  That’s it! You have created gorgeous, contemporary, abstract art. Find the perfect spot to hang them in your home to showcase your artwork. Happy painting!  
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One of my favourite thrifted finds from my local Salvation Army Thrift store is this demijohn glass vase.  I didn’t pick it up initially but after I left I could not stop thinking about this vase. After doing a little research, I found a very similar vase from Pottery Barn that was worth up to $249! I immediately went back to pick it up. Luckily it was still there and was only $8.99!  Photo credit Pottery Barn This was such a great find and I had the perfect spot for it. Check out the 3 different ways I styled it. Happy thrifting!    I found this ceramic column in my local thrift store, it was the perfect piece to display one of my plants from my growing collection. Since the colour did not work I decided to use Dixie Belle Paint to create an aged patina effect. Here are the materials I used and steps on how you can easily replicate this look. here to edit.  Materials
Step 1 I started by giving this column a good cleaning with Dixie Belle’s White Lightning to remove any dirt and residue. Step 2 Once it was completely dry, I used Gravel Road and painted it as my base colour.   Step 3 Using my wax paper as a paint palette, I added my colours Hurricane Grey, Caviar, Putty, Driftwood and Hampton Olive. This is a great way to have all of your colours on hand and mix colours if needed.  Step 4 Once my base coat was completely dry, I used driftwood to create a colour wash. I dipped my brush into the paint, then into a small container of water and began applying it in small sections. I gently wiped back the colour wash with a damp shop rag, pushing it into the crevices. I continued this step layering on each colour and blending it into the finish with a clean brush to get an aged patina.    Step 5 Using a clean brush, I added a light dry brushing of Caviar and Driftwood. To dry brush, dip your brush into a small amount of paint and then wipe off excess (until it’s almost dry) and then gently wipe the side of your brush along the ridges of the column, along the base and in the crevices at the top to add some depth.   Step 6 Once my column was completely dry, I used my Best Dang wax brush to apply a thin layer of Best Dang wax in clear. I waited 15 minutes and then buffed with a shop rag.  Step 7 To add more depth, I used Gilding wax in Zinc and Black. I used a shop rag to apply it to the base and ridges of the column. After 12 hours I lightly buffed it.  And that’s it! You have created a gorgeous aged patina effect. This is a great technique to have some fun with and try experimenting with different colour combinations. Happy painting!     Adding pillows into your decor is a great way to add texture, tie in accent colours and creates a comfy vibe in your space. Did you know that you can inexpensively make your own pillows using Dixie Belle Paint that look like you purchased them out of a designer store? Here is how you can easily create your own blended stenciled pillow. Materials
Step 1 Iron your pillow cover to remove any wrinkles. Step 2 Unzip your pillow cover and place a piece of wax paper inside to avoid any paint seeping through to the other side of your cover. Step 3 Center your stencil on top of your pillow cover and tape it into place to avoid any movement while you are stenciling.   Step 4 Add a small amount of your darkest colour (Cape Current) on your stencil brush. To get the best results, dab off most of your paint onto your shop rag. This will ensure that you have a crisp, clean outline and avoid the paint bleeding underneath the stencil.  Step 5 Place one hand on your stencil to keep it steady. Starting at the top section, begin dabbing around the outline of your stencil. Continue gently dabbing around the outline and blend it in a downward motion. Continue this step until you have completed the edging of your whole stencil.    Step 6 Using a clean stencil brush, dab your brush in your next colour (Sea Glass). Dab off most of your paint onto your shop rag. Starting where you finished your last colour, gently dabbing your paint and blend it in a downward motion filling out the remaining area. Continue this step until you have completely covered your stencil.   Step 7 Using a clean stencil brush, dab it into your next paint colour (Gold Digger). Remove excess paint onto your shop rag and gently dab your metallic paint on various small areas on your stencil. I added most of my metallic paint on the bottom outline of my stencil and blended it in an upward motion. Continue until you have added your metallic paint evenly over your pillow cover.  Step 8 Carefully remove your stencil from your pillow. Within 15 to 20 minutes your pillow should be dry.  Step 9 Remove the wax paper and put a pillow cushion into your cover. That’s it! You have created a beautiful designer pillow! Find the perfect spot to showcase your pillow. Happy painting!  With many of us spending more time at home, it is important to keep our spaces feeling fresh as well as giving ourselves time to be creative. One easy way to do this is to refresh your tired furniture by painting it. There are many excellent quality paints on the market that make it so easy to do. The creative aspect of it is what I really love, it’s very therapeutic.  I found this vintage french provincial dresser on one of my trips to my local Salvation Army Thrift Store. If you grew up in the 60’s, 70’s or even the 80’s, you may have had one of these dressers in your bedroom. It’s a very sturdy and well made piece but it has yellowed over the years. It really needs an update. My first step in the transformation is to give it a quick prep. Just clean with TSP or warm water and vinegar to remove any residue. I used 220 sandpaper to give it a scuff, giving the surface a bit of "tooth" and then wipe off any residue with a damp cloth. Click here to watch a video on how to properly prep. I used Fusion Mineral paint Ultra Grip to help the paint adhere, since the dresser was laminate. You can also use any high quality furniture paint primer for your project. Click here to learn how to apply Ultra Grip. After 12 hours I was ready to start painting. I used Fusion Mineral paint Little Lamb and metallic pearl on the edging and details to really make it stand out. After two coats it was done! Click here to learn more about Fusion Mineral Paint.  I love how easy it was to transform this outdated yellowed dresser into a gorgeous statement piece. Have a tired piece of furniture that needs some love? Consider painting it, and have some fun while getting creative. Happy thrifting!
 Having artwork in your home is a great way to show your personality. It is also a simple way to tie in colours that you want to accentuate in a room. Creating your own artwork gives you control over the colours you want to bring into your space. Did you know you can use Dixie Belle Paint to create beautiful paint pour art? Here are the materials and steps to make your own artwork. Materials
 Step 1 Set up your drop cloth- this DIY is a little messy! Paint your canvas in Cotton or whatever white you have on hand. This will give you a smooth surface to start on. Step 2 Once it’s dry, pour resin into all of your cups. I am using smaller cups since I am working with a smaller canvas, for larger canvases use larger cups.  Step 3 Using your spoon add a small amount of paint into your resin (approximately ¼ tsp or so). If too much paint is added your mixture will not flow. Gently mix with dried spaghetti or the end of your spoon avoiding creating bubbles. Mix until your mixture is opaque. Complete this step with each colour mixture.    Step 4 Add one or two drops of silicone oil into each cup. This will (create a circular pattern) add circular holes in your paint surface and reveal layers of colour.  Step 5 Place a few empty cups under your canvas to elevate it so it does not sit directly on your table.  Use 4 or 5 clean cups (amount of cups depends on the size of your canvas, the goal is to make sure you have enough paint to cover your canvas). Slowly pour and layer different colours into each cup. Complete this step until all of your cups are filled.   Step 6 Take one of your filled cups and quickly flip upside down on the canvas. Leaving the cups upside down will help all of the paint to pool on the canvas. Flip your remaining cups upside down in various spots on your canvas and let them sit for about 3 or 4 minutes. Gently tap the top of each cup to help the paint move down to the canvas.   Step 7 Now the fun begins! Gently lift your cup, holding it over your canvas for a minute to allow all of the paint to drip out. Continue this step until each of your cups have been emptied onto your canvas.   Step 8 Carefully place your hands on either side of your canvas and slowly move it in a back and forth motion, and from side to side until your paint covers your entire canvas. Take your time with this step. You will notice how the paint will change and the colours will merge. If there are some spots around the edges that are not covered you can add more paint with remnants from your layered paint cups. Once you are happy with your paint pour, set it back down on your cups and let it dry.   After letting my canvas dry overnight it was ready to hang the next day. I love how it turned out! This was so easy to do and looks fantastic in my space. Need to refresh your space with some unique artwork? Then try out this DIY! Happy painting!  Adding a centerpiece to a table or console is a great way to create a focal point and cheerful element into your space. I had some leftover wood from previous projects and made a box, but you can buy a premade box at most craft stores.  I love the warm and vintage feel of Modern Farmhouse decor, so I will transform this new wood box into a worn, salvaged centerpiece. Here is how I did it and the materials needed to create your own Modern Farmhouse style centerpiece. Materials
Step 1 Pour a small amount of Gravel Road paint into a container. Dip your brush into your paint, then into your container of water and start painting. This process of dipping your brush in water will help the paint absorb into the wood and stain it. Once you have completely covered the first side, take a shop rag or a damp lint free cloth to wipe off the paint, allowing the wood grain to come through. Repeat this process on all sides of your box.    Step 2 Once dry, use your spatula or palette knife to layer on your Dixie Mud to the ends and edges on each side of the box. This will add character and texture to your surface. Dry time can be between 4 to 24 hours depending upon how much mud is applied.   Step 3 Paint your box in Cotton, making sure to add lots of heavy brushstrokes. Once the first coat has dried, apply a second coat.   First coat  Second coat with lots of texture Step 4 Using the sandpaper, distress the box, with particular attention to the edges. To give it an authentic distressed look, sand in a circular motion. The wood stain that we did in step 1 will begin to peak through.   Step 5 Mist Easy Peasy Wax on one side of the box and wait 30 seconds before wiping off. Repeat this process on all sides of your box. After adding the wax the finish was so smooth!  Step 6 Using your fine artist brush, gently wipe your Dixie Dirt into the texture on the sides of your box, a little around the edging and anywhere else you would like to add some depth and patina.   Step 7 That’s it! Your centerpiece is done. Add flowers, greenery or seasonal decor and place it on a mantel, dining room or console table. To add more detail, you can also add a stencil. I used Dixie Belle new mosaic Silk Screen stencil and distressed it for more character.    This was such a fun and easy transformation! Click here to order your Dixie Belle products to complete this DIY. Happy Painting!
Grandmillennial style has been a big design trend throughout 2020 and continues to be on the rise. It is a throwback to more of a classic, nostalgic, traditional style adding a modern twist. Moving away from the current minimalist to a maximalism aesthetic. A few of the elements found in this style are needle point pillows, fine china, florals, wicker, embroidered linens, classic wallpaper, ruffles, pleated lampshades, antiques, vintage collections and textiles with lots of pattern and bold colour.  photo credit Anni Schlechter  photo credit Sarah Dorio  An inexpensive way to try this design style is to hit your local thrift store for lots of vintage finds. Here are a few items I found at my local Salvation Army Thrift store that work with this design aesthetic.         Thrifting for Grandmillenial elements is a fabulous way to try out this nostalgic trend. Make sure to hit your local thrift store. Happy thrifting!
I love adding candles into my holiday decor, it’s festive and adds warmth into your space. I found these candle holders at my local Salvation Army, perfect for a fun snowy candle holder DIY. Here is how you can easily create this DIY just in time for the holidays. Materials
 Step One After cleaning your candle holders, use your paint brush to apply a thick layer of Modge Podge. Work in small areas as the Modge Podge dries quickly.  Step Two Pour some Epsom salts on your wax paper. Gently roll your candle holder with the wet Modge Podge into your Epsom salt.  Step Three Repeat step one and two until your candle holder is covered with epsom salts. Make sure to add more to spots that were missed.  Step Four Wrap the jute rope around the mouth of your candle holder and tie it off. Add glue if you need to keep it in place. Add glue to the knot to place your clippings of spruce or cedar and your holiday berries.    To add more of a dramatic impact create a set to make a dramatic display on your mantel or dining room table. Happy thrifting!
  Photo credit Pottery Barn Do you love the cool muted tones of Seaglass? Seaglass decor replicates the look of worn glass found on the beach. It can be expensive to purchase at decor stores but you can easily imitate the look using Dixie Belle Paint. Here is how you can easily complete this gorgeous effect. Materials
Step 1 Choose glassware that has a slightly rounded shape. Here are a few examples that would work.  Your local thrift store is a great source to find vases if you don’t have any on hand. Give it a good clean with White Lightening to remove any dirt.  Step 2 Using wax paper as your paint palette, pour a small amount of your blue or green and white paint. For this DIY, I am using the colour Mermaid Tail and Cotton. Use either your finger or a brush, mix the colours together. To create a soft coastal colour, you will need a ratio of about 3:1 of your white paint or higher.   Step 3 Once you have mixed the perfect shade for your seaglass, take your shop rag and hold the four sides of your rag leaving it bunched up in the middle. Your shop rag is the key to achieving your Seaglass look.   Dab a small amount of paint on your shop rag and then dab off the excess until there is only a minimal amount of paint left.  Step 4 Start by dabbing the bottom of your vase with your shop rag, moving towards the top of the glass. Make sure you are applying a very light amount of paint. If too much paint is applied you will get more of a rustic look and it will take more time to dry. Continue moving up and down your vase until you have completed your first layer of paint.   Once it’s dry to the touch, you can apply your second coat.  First Coat  Second coat Step 5 Crumple up a new shop rag, dab it into your Dixie Belle White paint and wipe off excess. Start by lightly dabbing the white around the bottom rim of the glass. Slowly moving, and blending as you go. Do the same step around the top of the vase.   Step 6 (optional) To give it an authentic sea crusted look, brush some Modge Podge to the top rim and bottom of your vase. Place a small amount of Epsom salts on some wax paper. Gently roll the Epsom salts in the areas with the Modge Podge. Let dry for about 30 minutes.  Step 7 Wrap some jute rope around the top.     That’s it, you have created Seaglass decor! You just need to find the perfect spot to showcase it. Head over to Dixie Belle Paint Company to find the perfect paint colour for your Seaglass. Happy painting!
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