DIY Aged Vase

Materials you’ll need:

• A planter pot of your choice (here’s a similar one I used)
• Black Rust-Oleum Painters Touch Ultra Cover in flat black
• Rust-Oleum Painters Touch in clear matte
• Dirt
• A bowl
• A face mask
• Gloves

Don’t want to read? Watch the full video tutorial below or visit my YouTube channel for more helpful content!

Step 1: Prepare Your Planter

Choose a planter that you like, making sure it has a lot of texture and a shape that you are happy with. Clean the planter thoroughly, making sure there is no dirt or debris left on it.

Step 2: Base Coat

Put on your face mask and give the planter a base coat in the color of your choice. In this tutorial, we used black to add contrast to the living room. Make sure you don’t overdo it, as this can result in drips. If you do get any drips, simply wipe them off and start over.

Step 3: First Layer of Dirt

Fill a bowl with dirt, making sure it contains rocks and sand. Rub the dirt all over the planter, getting into every crevice and crack. Make sure you fill in all the texture spots, as this will give the planter more dimension. Lightly dust off any excess dirt with your glove.

Step 4: First Layer of Clear Coat

Once the dirt has been applied, give the planter a good clear matte coat. This will lock in the dirt in all the cracks and crevices.

Step 5: Repeat the Process

Repeat steps 3 and 4 several times until you are happy with the amount of texture on your planter. The more times you repeat the process, the more texture you will have.

Step 6: Purposeful Imperfections

For added character, you can use a larger rock to make purposeful scratches or dents in the planter. This will give the planter a story and make it even more unique.

Step 7: Final Touch

Once you are happy with the amount of dirt and clear coat on your planter, you are done! Fill it with plants and admire your handiwork.

Some quick tips & tricks:

1. Choose a pot with texture for a better result
2. Clean the pot before painting it with a base color
3. Apply a clear coat after every layer of dirt to lock in the texture
4. Repeat the process of alternating clear coat and dirt until you achieve the desired look
5. Dust off the excess dirt after every layer, but don’t remove too much dirt
6. Use a large rock to make purposeful scratches or dents for added character
7. Let each layer dry completely before moving on to the next.

Creating an aged planter is a simple and fun DIY project that can add a touch of rustic charm to your home. You can use any type of planter that you like, and the dirt technique is a great way to add texture and dimension. Get creative and have fun with it!

Ready to see more Restoration Hardware dupes you need to try? Keep reading below…

DIY Wooden Box

Decorative wooden boxes are a great way to add some character to your home decor. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to create a decorative box. With a few simple tools and materials, you can create a stunning box that will be the perfect addition to your living room or bedroom.

Products you may need for this project:

• Wood box (different sizes available)
• Rust-Oleum Painters Touch Ultra Cover Spray Paint in Flat Black
• Ryobi Jigsaw fitted with fine blade
• Safety glasses
• Wire brushes w/ drill attachment
• 150 grit sandpaper
• Foam roller paint set
• Washcloth
• Drill
• Marker or pencil for drawing keyhole shape

Want a step-by-step video tutorial? Watch the video below or see my YouTube channel for more tutorials just like this!

Preparing the Box

The first step is to find a wood box that you like. Look for one that is real wood and has metal hinges. This type of box is perfect for a DIY project and will give you a solid base to work with. Once you have your box, you’ll need to prepare it by spray painting the hinges with a flat black spray paint. Allow the paint to dry for a few minutes before flipping the box over to paint the other side of the hinges.

Distressing the Box

To give the box the desired distressed look, you’ll need to use a jigsaw and a fine blade. Go ahead and cut up the sides of the box, creating a rough and worn look. Keep in mind that you don’t want to go overboard, but you do want to have some fun and give the box a good distress. After distressing the box, you’ll want to smooth out any splinters or rough spots by using 150 grit sandpaper.

Adding Texture with a Wire Brush

One of the keys to achieving a great distressed look is adding texture to the box. To do this, you’ll want to use a set of wire brushes that you can attach to a drill. These brushes will help you open up the grain and bring more texture to the box. Make sure to wear safety glasses while using the wire brushes, as there will be a lot of pieces flying around.

Creating a Fake Keyhole

If you’d like to add a fake keyhole to your box, you can do so by drawing a keyhole on the box where you want it to be. Then, use a drill with a drill bit to drill holes through the box, creating the keyhole shape.

Painting the Box

To finish off your box, you’ll want to paint it with black interior paint in a satin sheen. You can use a foam roller to apply the paint, which will give you a smooth and even finish without any brush marks.

With these simple steps, you can create a beautiful decorative box with that Restoration Hardware inspired look! The box is perfect for adding a touch of character to your home and will be a great conversation piece when guests come over. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try and see how it turns out!

Next up, our last Restoration hardware look alike… keep reading because you’re going to love this one!

DIY Framed Crystal Wall Art

We all know Restoration Hardware is known for its high-end furniture and home decor. But let’s be honest, not everyone may have the budget to afford these beautiful items. That’s why in this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll show you how to create your own version of a Restoration Hardware’s framed crystal wall art!

Materials You’ll Need:

• Picture frames with a gap between the mat and glass
• Linen
• Agate stones
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Iron

In the video below, you can see me create this amazing crystal wall art piece! Feel free to head over to my YouTube channel and see all of my other videos!

Choose Your Picture Frame

The first step in this DIY project is to choose your picture frame. Make sure to choose a frame that has a gap between the mat and the glass. This will give you space to add the agate stones later on. You can find frames at a local craft store, such as Hobby Lobby or Jo-Ann’s, or on Amazon.

Purchase Linen

The next step is to purchase some linen. Look for a high-quality ivory-colored linen that has a lot of texture. You can find this at any craft store, online, or on Amazon.

Find Your Agate Stones

You will also need to purchase your agate stones. You can find these on Amazon in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes. Consider finding a size that fits perfectly in your picture frame. If you’re looking for a larger statement piece, look for coaster-sized stones. They come in all different colors and will make a beautiful statement in your art piece.

Trace and Cut Your Linen

Once you have your picture frame and materials, start by laying your canvas upside down. Trace the mat of the picture frame on the back of the canvas and make sure to trace the inside as well. Cut the canvas about 1.5 inches out from the line, leaving extra space for wrapping around the mat. Repeat this process for two pieces of canvas.

Iron Your Linen

Iron your canvas to get rid of any wrinkles. This will give your art piece a cleaner and nicer look.

Cut Out the Center of Your Linen

Fold the canvas in half and make a small incision in the center. Cut around the center, leaving a little space for wrapping around the mat. Cut diagonal angles to the corners of your line, this will allow you to wrap the canvas around the mat. Make any necessary cuts to ensure a tight wrap.

Attach Your Linen to the Mat

Using a hot glue gun, attach the flaps of the linen to the back of the mat. Be sure to use a thin layer of glue and avoid big beads of glue. Wrap the canvas around the mat as tightly as possible. Make sure that everything is on the pretty side facing downwards.

Add Your Agate Stones

Now it’s time to add your agate stones. Arrange the stones in the gap between the mat and the glass, making sure they’re spaced evenly. Use a hot glue gun to attach the stones to the linen. Make sure to apply the glue thinly and avoid making big beads of glue.

Put Your Art Piece in the Frame

Once you’ve added all of your agate stones, place the mat in the frame. Make sure everything looks good and that the linen is wrapped tightly around the mat.

Finally, hang your art piece and enjoy your beautiful new creation!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Restoration Hardware style called?

Restoration Hardware is known for its classic, timeless, and elegant designs with a touch of modernity. The style can be described as a mix of traditional and contemporary elements.

How do I get Restoration Hardware look for less?

To achieve the Restoration Hardware look for less, consider doing DIY’s, buying similar styles from budget-friendly retailers, using discount codes, shopping during sales, or purchasing pre-owned or vintage pieces.

Is Restoration Hardware the same as Pottery Barn?

No, Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn are two separate companies with distinct styles and product offerings. While they both offer home furnishings, they have different design aesthetics and target different customer groups.

And there you have it… 3 amazing Restoration Hardware look alikes you can complete and get the look for less!

I hope you found a project or two you can add to your list and, as always, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below; let me know which one of the three projects above was your absolute favorite!

~Valerie 

The post 3 Restoration Hardware Dupes You’ll Absolutely Love! appeared first on Valerie Aguiar.

This project was inspired by a girl on Instagram, Jenny from @making_highview_home, who shared a hack for using a planter as an umbrella stand. I decided to take it a step further and add a planter on top of the stand to make it even more versatile and fun! I always love fresh patio decorating ideas and this DIY did not disappointed!

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Resin planter (or any planter of your choice)
• PVC pipe (2 inches in diameter, 3 feet long) (available in-store)
• Fast-setting Quikrete
• PVC cap (2 inches in diameter)
• Saucer (18 inches in diameter)
• Rust-Oleum painters touch in flat white
• Forstner Drill Bit
• Black/White striped umbrella
• Creeping Myrtle ground cover

Don’t want to read? Watch the full video tutorial below or visit my YouTube channel for more helpful content!

Creating A Jaw-Dropping DIY Umbrella Stand Planter

Below, I’m going to share the step-by-step process I took to create the umbrella stand & planter you see above. Ready to get started? Let’s get started!

Prepare the PVC Pipe

Head to your local Home Depot and grab a pre-cut PVC pipe that is 2 inches in diameter and 3 feet long. This will fit perfectly in the resin planter. Also grab a bag of fast-setting Quikrete and a PVC cap.

Assemble the umbrella stand

Place the PVC pipe in the center of the planter and use the Quikrete to secure it in place. Mix the Quikrete according to the package instructions and pour it into the planter around the PVC pipe. Use a stick or broom handle to smooth out the Quikrete and make sure the PVC pipe is standing upright. Once the Quikrete is set, add the PVC cap to the top of the pipe to keep the concrete from coming out.

Add the planter

Once the concrete is dry, place the bucket (with the PVC pipe in it) inside the planter. This will serve as the base for your umbrella stand.

Add the saucer

Flip the saucer upside down and mark where you will need to cut a hole in the center for the PVC pipe to fit through. Use a jigsaw to cut out the hole. Once the hole is cut, give the saucer a quick coat of Rust-Oleum painters touch in flat white. The paint may not stick well to the saucer, but that’s okay as long as it’s mostly white. Place the saucer on top of the PVC pipe and fill it with soil and plants of your choice

Enjoy your new umbrella stand/planter

Your new DIY umbrella stand/planter is now ready to use! You can use it to hold an umbrella or simply enjoy the greenery it brings to your outdoor space. The saucer can easily be removed to water the plants or change them out for different seasons.

This project is a great way to add a functional and beautiful piece to your outdoor space. The PVC pipe and Quikrete make for a sturdy umbrella stand, while the planter adds a touch of greenery. The saucer also makes it easy to change out the plants or remove the umbrella stand. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!

Some additional tips for your DIY umbrella planter & stand:

• Use a patio umbrella with UV-resistant fabric/spray to help protect yourself and your guests from harmful UV rays.
• Use patio umbrella lights or string lights to add ambiance to your outdoor space and extend the use of your patio into the evening hours.
• Use an umbrella cover to protect your umbrella when not in use.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What can I use instead of an umbrella base?

Some alternatives to an umbrella base include using heavy objects such as bricks or pavers, or securing the umbrella to a table or deck with straps or ties.

What color of umbrella repels the sun?

Dark-colored umbrellas are more effective at blocking UV rays and keeping the area underneath cooler, compared to light-colored umbrellas.

Do all patio umbrellas need a base?

A base is required for most patio umbrellas to provide stability and prevent them from tipping over. However, some umbrellas are designed to be mounted to a surface or have a built-in base.

If you made it this far… thank you for taking the time to read this step by step DIY. As always, I’d love to know if you’re thinking about tackling this project or already have! Leave a comment below and let me know!

~Valerie 

The post DIY Umbrella Stand Planter: Amazing Patio Decorating Ideas appeared first on Valerie Aguiar.

You can find a variety of different Floor Pops styles and looks right here on Amazon!

Don’t want to read? Watch the full video tutorial below or visit my YouTube channel for more helpful content!

Installing Floor Pops Peel & Stick Floor Tiles, Step-by-Step

I’m going to break down step by step how we installed our peel and stick Floor Pops tiles for our bathroom makeover…

Step 1: Prepare the Floor

The first step is to remove any existing flooring that you don’t want to keep. In our case, we had linoleum that was climbing up the vanity, so we used a utility knife to cut a line and pull it all off. There was also some wood underneath that we had to chip off using a screwdriver and a hammer. Once you’ve removed the old flooring, use a broom and a cleaner (we used a mix of Lysol and water) to sweep and clean the floor thoroughly.

Step 2: Choose Your Tiles

Before you start the project, it’s a good idea to research the different peel and stick tile options available. We looked on Amazon and Lowe’s and ultimately decided to go with the Floor Pops styles from Amazon, as they were quick delivery and the price was right. However, it’s important to note that Lowe’s and Home Depot also have peel and stick tile options, so be sure to check those out as well.

Step 3: Measure and Plan

Once you have your tiles, it’s time to measure and plan the layout of your floor. The tiles we used were 12 by 12 inches, and each box contains 10 tiles. We recommend buying an extra box or two to allow for any errors or mistakes. Before sticking anything down, lay out all the tiles and make sure they align correctly and that the designs match up. This is also a good time to notch out any areas around doorways or other obstacles.

Step 4: Start Installing

We started installing the tiles in the entryway, making sure to center the first tile and align it with the existing laminate flooring in the hallway. The hardest part of this project was getting around the doorway, as it required cutting notches out of the tiles to fit around the frame. However, with a little patience and persistence, we were able to get it done.

As we continued to install the tiles, we made sure to double-check that every tile matched correctly, so that the floor would have a seamless look. Also, you should use a pen, a utility knife and angle to make the cuts on the tiles.

Step 5: Finish Up

After installing all the tiles, we went back and checked for any gaps or uneven areas. The adhesive on the back of the tiles is very forgiving, so we were able to lift and adjust any tiles that weren’t quite right. We also didn’t remove the baseboards, as they were old and we plan on replacing them anyway.

The final result is a beautiful and modern bathroom floor that cost us less than $55. The Floor Pops tiles were easy to install, and the adhesive has held up well with no issues. If you’re looking to update your bathroom floor on a budget, we highly recommend giving peel and stick tiles a try.

In conclusion, this is a great way to update your bathroom floor without breaking the bank. With a little bit of planning and patience, you can achieve the look for less!

A few additional tips:

• Make sure to clean the floor thoroughly before installing the tiles. Any dirt or debris can prevent the adhesive from sticking properly.
  
• Use a level to ensure that the tiles are being installed correctly and that they’re not uneven.
  
• If you’re installing the tiles over an uneven surface, you may need to use a leveling compound to smooth out the floor.
  
• Take your time when cutting the tiles to fit around obstacles like doorways and fixtures. Measure twice and cut once to ensure a perfect fit.
  
• Consider adding a sealant over the top of the tiles for added protection against water and stains.
  
• If you are not comfortable with the installation you can hire a professional to do the job for you.
  
• If you have any issues with the tiles not sticking, you can get a roller to press down on the adhesive and ensure a good bond.
  
• Experiment with different tile designs and patterns to create a unique look for your bathroom.
  

As always, I love hearing from you… leave a comment below and let me know if you are going to try this DIY!

~Valerie 

The post How To Install Peel and Stick Bathroom Floor Tile: Bathroom Makeover for Under $55! appeared first on Valerie Aguiar.

Don’t want to read? Watch the full video tutorial below or visit my YouTube channel for more helpful content!

How To Paint Bathroom Countertops, Your Vanity and Sink!

Today, I’m going to share the quick and easy process of how I painted my bathroom countertops with a Rustoleum epoxy spray. Ready to do it? Let’s go!

Step 1: Clean and Sand the Countertops

The first step in the process is to thoroughly clean your countertops. Use a cleaner that is not too abrasive and a clean towel to remove any dirt and grime. Once the countertops are clean, use a 100 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface. This will give the epoxy something to stick to and ensure a smooth finish. After sanding, use a damp towel to wipe off the dust and clear the surface completely.

Step 2: Mask Off the Countertops

The next step is to mask off the countertops to protect them from overspray. Use masking tape, such as green frog tape, to cover the drain spout, faucet, and any other areas you don’t want to be sprayed. Go over everything again with a clean microfiber towel to ensure that the surface is completely clean and free of dust.

Step 3: Apply the Epoxy Spray

Now that the countertops are clean and masked off, it’s time to apply the epoxy spray. We recommend using Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy, as it is washable, moisture-resistant, and gives a smooth, factory-like finish. Before you begin spraying, make sure to wear a mask, as the spray and smell can be intense. Open a window for ventilation if possible. Start by spraying the countertops and be careful not to overspray or let the product puddle up. If you notice a hair or any other imperfections, simply grab them out and spray over them. The first coat will not cover everything, but don’t worry, the second coat will.

Step 4: Wait for the Epoxy to Dry

After the first coat is applied, wait 15-20 minutes for it to dry. Then, apply a second coat. The difference after the second coat is amazing and you’ll be able to see the stark white, crisp, clean countertops.

Step 5: Remove the Masking Tape

After the epoxy has dried for about an hour, it’s time to remove the masking tape. Doing this before the epoxy is completely dry will make it easier to remove the tape and leave a cleaner edge.

Step 6: Enjoy Your New Countertops

Congratulations, you have successfully redone your bathroom countertops using an epoxy spray! Take a look at the before and after photos, and you’ll be amazed at the difference. This project is a quick and easy fix that can give you an extra year or two before having to redo your whole bathroom.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use a mask when spraying the epoxy, as the spray and smell can be intense.
• Open a window for ventilation if possible.
• Be careful not to overspray or let the product puddle up.
• If you notice any imperfections, simply grab them out and spray over them.
• Wait for the epoxy to dry before removing the masking tape, but not completely dry.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is it safe to paint bathroom countertops?

Yes, it is safe to paint bathroom countertops as long as the surface is properly cleaned and prepped and the paint used is suitable for the surface.

How long does it take for Rustoleum countertop paint to cure?

Rustoleum countertop paint typically takes 24 hours to dry and 28 days to fully cure.

Do painted countertops chip?

Painted countertops can chip if they are not properly sealed or if they are subjected to heavy use or impact.

Do you have to prime before using Rustoleum paint?

It is recommended to prime the surface before using Rustoleum paint to ensure proper adhesion and durability.

What do you seal painted countertops with?

Painted countertops can be sealed with a polyurethane sealer or an epoxy sealer. This will help protect the surface from scratches and stains, and prolong the life of the paint.

Overall, using an epoxy spray to redo your bathroom countertops is a simple and cost-effective way to update your bathroom. This project can be completed in a weekend, and the difference is truly amazing. If you’re looking for a quick and easy fix to update your bathroom, then doing this Rustoleum countertop transformation is your solution! Thanks to Rust-Oleum for creating such an amazing product!

Have any questions or comments? I’d love to hear from you… so leave them below!

~Valerie

The post How To Paint Bathroom Countertops: DIY Bathroom Makeover! appeared first on Valerie Aguiar.