My Design Secrets

A soft and neutral quilt that's not too country. Just click on the "Neutral Territory" section of the Pine Cone Hill website.

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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner so it’s a good time to transform your bedroom into a romantic and cozy getaway.  New Bedding is one of the simplest ways to instantly transform your bedroom.  Plus, most companies offer bedding collections that allow you to mix and match until your heart’s content so your creation will look more custom and less “out of the box”.  As you can see in many of these photos, there is usually a large dominant pattern followed by a geometric pattern (stripes or diamond for example) and then a textured pattern.  This is a good rule of thumb when mixing it up.  If you prefer to stay with solids than keep it in one color family for maximum impact but make sure the intensity of the colors vary (see the dark purple with mauve in the last photo).  Since bedding is the showpiece of the bedroom, the transformation is dramatic and you might even be inspired to try a new paint color on the walls.  Between the bedding and the paint, you will have a quick and easy new look.

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LuLu DK (short for deKwiatkowski) designs gorgeous fabrics that I have chosen for my living room. Now you can get in on her bright, uplifting designs with her bedding. Tiger Lilly in Coral shown above. Also available in Ocean blue.

An pattern in blue emits a beautiful watery look that spells relaxation and .

The pattern was inspired by an Indonesian Wedding Sarong. A great story to go along with a wonderful mix of pattern and texture. John Robshaw makes it easy for you to look like a pattern mixing pro.

Ralph Lauren is your best bet if you like classic looks. The "Poet" bedding shown above is wonderful for any leather or classic wooden beds (Sleigh bed, large scale four-poster) when you like a masculine look with a little softness sprinkled in.

inhabit living features this modern, crisp design for those of you who would ike to bring the simplicity of nature into your bedroom.

Jumping into this bedding from Bliss Living would be like slipping on a silky gown.

I started My Design Secrets more than a year ago with one goal in mind:  Help people who love home decorating by giving them professional advice and easy access to the best online interior decorating sources.  After receiving a lot of wonderful feedback and learning that close to 100,000 people visted the database last year, I realized that My Secret Database was the answer to many of your decorating prayers!  So, I  was determined to continue sharing my interior design advice and resources.

A couple of months ago, I announced that we would be making some upgrades to the website.  Now, the time has come!  We wanted to make My Design Secrets even more useful, interesting, and fun for all of you decorating enthusiasts. (And for those of you who don’t know, my husband, Tim,  is the what turns “me” into “we”.)

So, here is what’s in store…

Improvements to My Secret Database *

The new database is PHENOMENAL.  When it comes to home decorating, My Secret Database blows any search engine out of the water.  Take that Google!  Here’s why: 

• Search through hundreds of online retailers for the product(s) you need and in the specific style you want.
• View a wide assortment of photos of specific products from the vendors in My Secrets Database. 
• Check out the the handy $-$$-$$$!  These icons will help you stay within your home decorating budget.

*While we wanted to keep doing all this for free, a girl has got to make a living!   With all these great new features, we are confident that you will recognize what a great value it is.  So starting this Wednesday at noon, My Secret Database is going to become a membership only site.  We are sure you will agree that the nominal charge of $9.95 per month is a fair price for access to this incredibly valuable, time-saving database.

Hot New Topics and Inside Tips in the Blog (Free)

The blog will continue to be free of charge and will offer my professional design tips as well as introductions to some of the hottest new decorating sources on the web.  I have lots of great ideas for new topics and, as always, you are welcome to make suggestions.  Feel free to search my existing blog entries covering over 350 decorating topics!

Great New Giveaways

We know you all love a Great Giveaway, so those are definitely going to continue.  We have some great ones lined up for high quality paint, gorgeous home furnishings, and fabulous interior decorating/design books.  And remember, your paid membership will automatically enter you into the giveaways.

Thank You…Thank You…Thank You

I have appreciated your support over the last year and sincerely hope that you will find these upgrades very helpful as you continue to put your personal decorating stamp on your home.

~ Lorrie

One of my favorite prints is Ocean Breezes. A more classic take on the brown and blue combo with both colors having a gently worn feeling.

My Design Secrets is the perfect outlet for my obsessive habit of collecting decorating sources.  Even with a busy design practice, and the homes of my friends and family, I still have overflowing amounts of advice and sources that are here for the taking!  Today I stumbled onto a site that makes me giddy.  Saffron Marigold carries exotic, handmade, eco-friendly bedding and linens that are bursting with gorgeous colors and good Karma to boot! 

A versatile tablecloth that goes from everyday to festive and then just throw it in the wash.

This black and white shower curtain lends some modern flair to this traditional paisley.

The owner, Anisha, is a girl after my own heart.  She has a Masters degree in Human Resources but her love of Indian Textiles was so overwhelming  that it led her to create Saffron Marigold.   It’s a small business run out of Petaluma, California that has a large heart that extends over the Indian Ocean and into Pune, India where the magic happens.  All of their products are hand-crafted according to traditional block printing techniques and each piece is an original work of art distinguished by the work of the artisan, the particular lot of dye, and even varying weather conditions.  They work with a couple of artisan studios with whom they have a close relationship.  They visit the studios to make sure they follow Fair Trade practices that Saffron Marigold values, as well as helping the craftspeople become more economically self-sufficient.

These white lace curtain panels are perfect for a soft touch that's a bit more sophisticated than most country curtains.

A 17" x 17" pillow cover is only $19.99. This is the most stylish sofa makeover bargain you are going to get!

With a broad selection of bedding, shower curtains, table linens, pillow covers, and sheer curtains you are sure to find something to spice up your home.  Cool blue and turquoise, spicy saffron and cinnamon, and breezy white on white. You can shop by the item or by prints with names like Lavender Dreams, Paisley Au Lait or Memories of Shalimar.  You will enjoy browsing the site and the fantastic prices are a wonderful bonus.

Enjoy!

~Lorrie

This Crewel Bench would make a beautiful accent in a foyer or hallway. I love the natural colors and nailhead trim.

Crewelwork is a very odd name for a particularly beautiful fabric.  This method of embroidery dates back at least 1,000 years; where it was used on tapestries.  Ususally crafted in wool, the embroidery stitches follow a pattern or outline that has been applied to the fabric with chalk, water soluble ink or iron-on designs.  Where does the word crewel come from?  Well, the exact origin is unknown but is thought to have come from an ancient word describing the curl in the wool used.

The crisp crewel accent pillow on top pairs nicely with other cotton prints.

An example of an intricate crewelwork pattern from the 1940's. You can really see the detail in the stitching.

Linen Source always manages to give you super affordable fashion. This tropically inspired King duvet cover is on sale for $34!

This traditional style of fabric was most often seen in interiors that featured more of a Jacobean motif (think castles, kings and ladies in waiting).  Over the years, it has resurfaced in more modern applications.  Lately, I have seen a lot of crewel work in light, bright patterns that are open and airy.  The detailed nature of crewelwork makes it interesting and adds nice texture to bedding, pillows and draperies.  Because it’s wool and raised off the surface of the fabric, it can be a little scratchy and not something you’d want touching your skin.  It’s best used on benches, chairs, throw pillows and bedspreads.  But not the ones you pull up to cuddle with.    

This tone-on-tone look from Williams Sonoma is a subtle and classic way to use crewel.

Layla Grace carries these crisp and refreshing drapery panels from Pine Cone Hill. A heavy fabric always looks lighter in bright tones.

I love this graphic print from Pottery Barn. A modern take on crewel.

If you are not going to go green for yourself, at least think of your tots and pups. This sofa from Greener Lifestyles is made from FSC certified wood, natural latex cushions and is available in a variety of organic hemp, cotton and wool fabrics.

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Upholstery 

I have to admit this is a tough one right now.  As a designer, there are a number of companies from whom I can buy eco-friendly upholstery.  For retail customers, the options are few.  Plus you have to be careful because some companies are taking advantage of the “eco-friendly hype” to sell mediocre furniture.  Yes, a sustainable hardwood frame and organic fabric sound great, but how is the piece made?  What’s inside? (The answers should be a hardwood frame with wool or natural latex cushions)  What is the warranty?  Some companies do not sell directly to the public but you can find an authorized dealer in your area.

• Lee Industries - Crate and Barrel carries some of their items.
• Greener Lifestyles – A great selection of mostly modern sofas.
• Williams Sonoma Home – Offering some stylish options in their Green Collection.  Look for the little green leaf.
• Eco Terric- They offer the Inside Green line from Cisco Brothers.

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I have been admiring this Viva Terra table for quite some time. Reclaimed railroad ties-made from teak, pine, and ironwood have been crafted into a nesting coffee table with sturdy metal frames that have been given a waxed finish. It has a nice clean look but the weathered wood gives it an interesting twist.

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Casegoods

Casegoods are pretty much anything that is made out of wood.  Think coffee tables, armoires and dressers.   Here we have many options to choose from.  Antiques and used furniture are the most obvious way to go green.  You can use these items in exactly the condition you find them or refinish them to your taste using earth-friendly products.  If you are handy you can create furniture out of items or wood that had a previous life.  Lastly, there are plenty of talented artists and vendors that are making new furniture from eco-friendly and sustainable materials.

• Vivaterra – One of my favorites, a lovely selection of furniture and accessories.
• Green Culture Furniture - They offer everything from bedrooms to living rooms in traditional, transitional and modern styles.
• Design Public – Great Modern furnishings for your home.

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Pottery Barn has a wide selection of organic bedding in solids and prints. The Sanibel Collection is great for a vacation home or any room where you want that beach house feeling.

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Pillows, Bedding and Other Soft Stuff

If you like to sleep as much as I do, then you spend more than a few hours with your pillow snuggled under your head.  Since these items are close to your skin for many hours at a time, it’s a good idea to go green.

• A Happy Planet - If you are going with a simple white or ivory palette, they have got you covered with vendors such as Anna Sova and SDH Purists.
• Pottery Barn – They have a nice selection of organic bedding in lovely colors.  200 thread count is fine for shams and duvet covers but make sure your sheets are 300+.
• LAUREN SPA - Their new spa collection features the trademark Lauren style but with a softer look and feel.

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Lighting

Again, we can arrive from two directions.  Take what you have to a lighting store, make sure it’s safe and add a new twist with shades, beads or crystals.  There is also some great refurbished antique lighting on the web.  Bare in mind that compact fluorescent bulbs are available in many sizes.  You can also look for Energy Star approved fluorescent lighting that require 2/3 less energy than standard lighting, generates 70% less heat, and lasts up to 10 times longer.  Some people are concerned that they won’t get the same warm light from a compact fluorescent but if you select a fixture with that has opaque glass, you can hardly tell the difference.

•  Chameleon Fine Lighting – If you are interested in finding a period fixture or just something funky for contrast, they have a beautiful selection.
• Rejuvenation Lighting- One of the few places where you can get an perfect antique reproduction that takes a compact fluorescent bulb!
• LBC Lighting - You also have the option of selecting light fixtures that are made of recycled glass or grass clot for an interesting twist.

I hope this helps you jump into the world of eco-friendly furnishings.  Just remember: consider what you can reuse, analyze what you really need and then do your research.  There are lots of great companies offering a wonderful selection of products that will make your home beautiful and eco-friendly.  Now that’s a smart way to go!

I bet your your down comforter has been working double-duty during this long, cold winter so it’s time to give it some TLC.  There are many theories of how to care for down and some so confusing that some people opt to do nothing at all.  While it doesn’t have to be super complicated, there are some basics that will make your down comforter stay, puffy, pretty and clean.  Here’s how…

A Down Primer

Even though we group most feather comforters into the category of “down”, that is not the fill that is many of them. Down is the undercoating of duckling and geese and are the softest and fluffiest.  Just as it protects the duckling, it’s a natural insulator as the down clusters trap the air; it keeps the warm in and the cold out.  True down comforters are the most expensive, followed by those made of duck and goose feathers or any combination thereof.

Many companies sell their down comforters in lovely colors so it's tempting not to use a duvet. Bad idea. Go with white and purchase a duvet cover or two. It's much easier to clean and update your color palette.

How to Care for Down

There are 3 parts to caring for down:  Maintenance, Cleaning and Storage.  Each contributes to keeping down clean, beautiful and low in allergens.  Some people may think they are allergic to down when in reality they are allergic to the mites and dust that build up as a result of poor maintenance. 

Ongoing Maintenance

A bit part of keeping your down fresh is ongoing maintenance which is pretty simple:

• Shake the comforter out when making your bed to fluff and revitalize it.
• Air it out periodically outdoors to keep it fresh and clean.
• If air drying is not an option, then fluffing it on low heat in the dryer works too.
• Small stains can be spot cleaned and dried with a hand-held hair dryer.
• Always use a duvet cover which can easily be cleaned and will protect the comforter. 

This product from The Company Store features all natural, non-toxic, and biodegradable ingredients. This down comforter cleaner is specially formulated to gently clean and freshen down products in your washing machine.

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Cleaning

You have a few options when it comes to caring for your down.  To keep your warranty in place, make sure to follow the instructions on the tag.  But if there’s no tag, it just depends on what fits your budget and makes sense for you:

• Dry Clean - An easy option but may be costly.  I do not recommend it because I do not want the dry-cleaning chemicals on my bed.
• Home Clean – Some companies sell special washing liquids that are gentle and leave no residue behind.  Many companies warn against any cycle that agitates the comforter too much so the down does not take a beating.  Do not use fabric softener and running 2-3 rinse cycles will help make sure nothing is left behind.  Dry on the lowest heat setting.  A couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls will help fluff it up.  After it feels dry, it’s still a good idea to hang it on a line for 24 hours.  Trapped moisture can cause mildew.  Be aware that it may shrink a bit.
• Mail it Off – Blanc Plume is a fine French Laundry service.  You mail them your linens and they come back, clean folded and lovely.  They use gentle European style machinery and phosphate-free, biodegradable wash formulas.  I use them for my clients matelasse coverlets.  A full, queen or king down comforter is $51.50 plus shipping.   They can also add feathers or stainguard for an additional charge.
• No Clean- Personally, I follow the maintenance steps above and choose not to clean my comforter with chemicals or soaps.  As long as you keep the kids and pets in check, you should be okay.

Cuddledown makes a nice storage bag for $9.

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Storage

• Make sure the comforter is clean.
• Remove the duvet cover.
• Put the comforter in a breathable, cotton bag or sheet.  Do not use plastic, the odor may be transferred to the comforter or mildew could form.
• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area and try not to crush the feathers.  Forget those plastic bags where you vacuum all the air out.
• Take it out at least once every 6  months to air it out, even if you don’t use it.

With a little bit of TLC, your comforter will keep you warm and comfy for years to come!

 ~Lorrie

"Vienna" Matelasse Coverlets & Shams are on sale at Horchow. An investment at $512 for a queen, but that's half off the original price of $1025.

Today let’s talk about Matelasse Coverlets.  To start off, the French word “matelasse” means quilted, padded or cushioned.  So when referring to bedding, these are the coverlets, shams and bed-skirts, that have a lightly quilted look in a variety of woven patterns.  I love, love, love these coverlets.  Because they are offered in an assortment of styles, they work in bedrooms from classic to modern.  Most are easily washable and they go from season season.  Pair it with a sheet in the summer or add a wool blanket in the winter and you are all set.  These coverlets are a great item to work into your bedding rotation or to use year round.

Bargain alert at Linen Source - Was $79, now $45 for a queen.

Some tips before you purchase:

• Size- Check the size with your bed.  Standard measurements do not apply to thick mattresses.  Coverlets generally stop at the bed-skirt or side rail and Bedspreads are down to the floor.
• Material - I generally prefer coverlets that are 100% cotton but if you want it to wear a bit longer, then a polyester mix might be a good option.  The less expensive options are usually much lighter.
• Color – I prefer ivory or white for a classic look that is super versatile but feel free to purchase a couple of colors for variety if the price is right.
• Style - Look for a pattern that contrasts with other patterns in your room.  If your shams are floral, then choose a diamond or striped coverlet and vice-versa.
• Care - Check the washing instructions to make sure you are comfortable with them. Some more expensive matelasse coverlets needs to be sent to a French laundry to prevent shrinkage.

My Favorite Sources

Peacock Alley -Very fine 100% cotton with organic options.

Linen Source - Great prices, modern options and a rainbow of colors

Pottery Barn – Classic styles and something is usually on sale.

Horchow – They carry a variety of quality brands.

Click to Win a $250 Gift Card from Amazon!

Tree Farm Flannel Bedding from Garnet Hill. They specialize in whimsical themes.

The nights are getting colder and the electric bill keeps climbing so it’s time to get creative in your quest for coziness.  What’s number one on my list?  Flannel sheets.  They are cuddly, warm and are a wonderful addition to your decor.  For me, that’s winning the triple crown.  So, I scoured the web for some beautiful and affordable options with a few coupons thrown in for good measure.  Enjoy as you settle in for a long winters nap!

~Lorrie

Garnet Hill (above)

$10 off $50 or more ~ Use Coupon Code: G8KMENT

Expires:  December 31, 2009 11:59 PM ET

If thoughts of the tropics keep you warm, then consider the Caribbean colors of these flannel sheets from JCPenney.

JCPenney

15% Off ~ Coupon Code: TRKYJCPC

Expires: 12/01/2008

Grandma's floral flannel nightgown may not be your style but these sheets from Linen Source are wonderfully Victorian and they are on sale.

Linen Source

Luxury Flannel Sale

Linensource through Shop.com

$5 off a purchase of $50+ with coupon code BRDH5.
$10 off a purchase of $100+ with coupon code BRDH10.
Do not use Guest Checkout if you want to use a coupon!
Valid through: December 31, 2008

You can always depend on LL Bean for good solid basics. Their "Mix and Match" flannel bedding allows you to pick your favorite combination. Don't forget the guest room or Aero bed!

LLBean

Free $10 Gift Card with purchase of $50 or more.

The stylish paisley of this "No Iron Perfect Flannel Paisley Sheet Set" from Land's End is big on style and comfort.

Lands End

Land’s End Flannel Overstocks

Click to Win Great Prizes!

Ask A Free Design Question!

At the end of the day, there is nothing more inviting than a beautiful, luxurious bed.  Think soft satin sheets and a comfy mattress sitting atop a regal bed with the perfect amount of pillows and blankets enveloping your body in comfort.  What?  That’s not your bed?  Well, then I am going to give you a crash-course in boosting the sleep-appeal of your roost!

While a new bed frame, mattress and sheets would be grand, they can be a substantial investment.  I am happy to say that there are great economical alternatives to give your bed a facelift.  By considering the different features of your bed from the floor up, you can quickly transform it into an ethereal escape.

Great Legs - We reviewed some Unusual Headboard Options  last month (and another great one shown above) but how many times have you banged your toe on that horrible metal bed-frame?  Yep, it’s that sturdy, yet ugly frame that came with the mattress.  There is a way to upgrade the legs of your bed with Bed Boots.  They are small decorative, hardwood boxes that are designed to cover the legs of most metal frames.  They come in five different finishes.  This eliminates the need for a bed-skirt or at least the need for one that reaches the floor.

Lift me Up - Do you like the regal feel of being a bit higher off the ground?  There is a kid-like joy to jumping into a high bed.  Many bed and bath stores, including Linens and Things, carry adjustable bed risers that increase the height of your bed; as well as the storage space beneath.

Cover Me - If you decide to forgo the bed-skirt, then you want to make sure you cover that naked box-spring.  Just buy an additional fitted sheet and I promise that you will love the tailored look.

Mattress Revival – Hour for hour, you mattress is the hardest working furnishing in the house.  It may not be as comfy as the day you met, but that’s no reason to kick it to the curb.  An affordable visco foam mattress topper will surely put a spring in your step.

And now that you don’t have to buy a new bed and saved all that money, spoil yourself with opulent bedding in My Secret Database.  Sweet Dreams!

Searching for some sumptuous new sheets for your bed?  Hunting for the perfect housewarming gift for a friend who likes to entertain?  The Giving Tree Luxury Linens is the place to go when you want to indulge.   

The owner, Carol Teplick, stocks the store with only the best for your bedroom, bathroom and tabletop.  They carry brands such as Peacock Alley and Yves Delorme and help you find what you need with good old Southern Hospitality.  They have a shop in Mobile, Alabama; but if you are shopping online you get the same type of attention you would get in person.  You can request free fabric swatches to make sure you select the perfect item and if you need more details don’t hesitate to call them.  They go above and beyond with stellar customer service.  

I have purchased from the Giving Tree for many of my clients and they love the beauty and quality of what they have to offer.  Also, if you sign up for Carol’s Newsletter, you are in a drawing for a $250 gift certificate each month.  Then you can really indulge!  Happy Shopping!

Shop for Bedding and Table Linens in My Secret Database.