A FRIEND who lives overseas told me she had been re-spraying some of her tired old furniture with a product called Rustoleum. What is it, can we get it in South Africa and how does it differ from a normal can of spray paint?
Elaine Brady, senior decor consultant and paint technique specialist at Shave Paint & Décor says: "Rustoleum is a manufacturer of spray paints, with products available for almost every application, creating different 'faux' effects.
"It is available from many local hardware stores in South Africa but is considered a bit expensive.
"Spray painting with regular spray paint is a quick and easy method of refinishing furniture and other small items at a reasonable price but you will not achieve a 'faux' or technique look with it. These paint effects are better achieved by more traditional painting methods, be it on your walls or furniture."
My collection of artifacts and small skulls from my travels is slowly gathering dust and getting knocked around. Can you suggest a clever and stylish way to display odd items like these? I don't have a display cabinet.
Andrea Kleinloog of Anatomy Design says: "Try displaying objects in a museum dome. Museum domes are similar to bell jars but their shape is more cylindrical. The glass dome will protect your precious finds from dust, as well as create a curated setting for the object on display.
"It highlights what's inside the dome, which is why this has become a far more popular way of displaying collectables than putting them in a display cabinet.
"Museum domes are available from Anatomy Design (www.anatomy design.co.za).
"One can then contrast the collection of artifacts with photos and other collectables, rather than keeping them in a drawer.
"I would recommend clustering a few of the domes together on a table for maximum effect."
I have a new home with a number of large rooms that need curtains. I am worried about the cost. What factors should I consider to have them made up at a fair price? The Home Stylist's Marguerite Doig Gander says: "There are a couple of pointers to follow when selecting curtaining on a budget."
1. Choice of fabric: it is a good idea to choose a fabric that is neutral and classic. A patterned fabric may date whereas a plain fabric will enable you to change scatter cushions and other accessories over time.
2. Cost of fabric: the number of metres you require per window is what drives the cost up, so ensure that the fabric you choose is within your budget.
3. Curtain making: in addition to your fabric cost, there is the charge for the curtain-making, rods and installation. Source: Home Weekly
LifeStyle
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