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Top Projects of 2009 Party

January 6, 2010 By Rhoda 70 Comments

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Since I tend to put a lot of projects on my plate every year, it isn’t too hard for me to come up with 10 things that I accomplished in 2009.  And I bet you have a lot too, when you went back through the months and looked at everything, didn’t you?  It’s fun to look back, pat yourself on the back and feel good about the rewards of DIY.

In January, I recovered the bulletin board that I originally made from a huge old frame that I found yardsaling. I finally got around to changing out the fabric to a snazzy zebra that I had picked up and it made all the difference in my cozy office nook.

IMG_3855

BEFORE: In the red fabric from my kitchen…..

IMG_3862

AFTER: Fun and funky zebra

IMG_6689

That cute light fixture was a 2009 addition to the office nook, an $8 yardsale find. Before

BEFORE: Many of you were with me in February when I debated back and forth on whether to lighten up my dining room or not.  I went for it, along with adding picture frame molding below the chair rail and  it went from pretty in red to….

diningroom overall

AFTER: WOW and classic in Antique White!  I got a lot of comments on this change and never regretted for a minute painting over the red.  I loved red for a long time, but I really love the lighter and airier feel of the Antique White.  IMG_4203

I did a complete tutorial on how I did these picture frame moldings all by myself with my handy-dandy miter box and many of you tried it too.  If I can do it, so can you!DR 010

Look at it with me again…BEFORE in RED. And you can really see some of the other major changes in here from when I first did this room.  Got rid of some of my dried flower arrangements, as well as the brass light fixture.  And I darkened that mirror too. Antique White dining room

AFTER: Antique White.  I think you’ll all agree that this was a majorly huge improvement to the dining room.  I love this space completely  now.IMG_0715

BEFORE: Moving on, again in February, I finally tackled my guest bathroom mirrors and once and for all framed them out and painted the frames.  One bathroom got chocolate brown and the other black.  This is the downstairs guestbath with the black mirror.IMG_4041

AFTER: And see what a difference this makes, with the addition of the molding.  This tutorial post got a HUGE amount of comments too and many of you tried this one at home.  An easy project with a lot of bang for the buck.IMG_5364

This bathroom also got the addition of the shabby cabinet that was found for $25 at a yardsale and it was love at first sight.  Click that link for all the details on it and installation process. Corner Cabinet2

BEFORE: In March, I decided to go on the hunt for a corner cabinet for my kitchen, so out to the antique malls I went and it wasn’t far from home that I found this beauty.  NOT really beautiful, you say!  Well, wait til you see her after I took her home and gave her some TLC…..IMG_4585

AFTER: With a new coat of Antique White paint, some burlap with stencils on the back walls and new knobs, this ugly duckling turned into a beautiful swan and now is one of the stars in my kitchen.  I showed all of the how-to’s here.

I can’t forget to mention the fun we had with the burlap party in May and many of you joined in and shared your projects for that.  Burlap was definitely the FUN fabric of 2009!

Kitchen before2

BEFORE: After a couple of months of deciding, looking and pondering some more, I finally got new granite countertops for our kitchen in May.   Out with the tumbled marble, which was looking pretty shabby. IMG_5013

AFTER: And in with the new Napoli granite counters, which I dearly love.  New hardware completed the transformation.IMG_5017

With a new granite sink and stainless steel faucet, I’m a happy cook now. 🙂  This wasn’t a DIY project, but it was a huge project at our house last year, so it makes the list. IMG_3142

BEFORE: Lighting in the newly up updated beachy guestroom got upgraded too in May of 2009, with the addition of a new chandelier.  Click on the above link if you’d like to see the true Before pics of this room and how I transformed it last year for under $500.  IMG_3305

The chandelier that looked like this when I found it at a thriftstore for $5.  But, it didn’t stay that way long. chandy

AFTER: Here it is with a new black paint job and hanging in its new room.  This is one of my most favorite fixtures yet. IMG_5621

This wonderful beadboard wallpaper really got blogland talking back in June, when I tried it out on my kitchen and bathroom cabinets and loved it so  much.  Many of you ran out and bought it too and tried your own projects. IMG_5650

BEFORE: Just as a reminder of how great it looks, this is my plain Jane kitchen cabinet ends before I got ahold of them with the beadboard wallpaper.Bath cab

AFTER: In the master bathroom, it really improved those too.IMG_5690

AFTER: In the  kitchen.  No one who sees this in person can believe it is wallpaper.  It really looks that real. Beadboard wallpaper

And later on, I did a single accent wall in one of my guest baths, when I did a redo in there too.  Blogland was buzzing over beadboard wallpaper, so we had a Beadboard Wallpaper party to celebrate and several of you showed off your projects too.  That was SO much fun!

In fact, I have my own online shop selling this wonderful Graham Brown beadboard wallpaper.  So, please…if you’re getting ready to buy some of this wonderful product, please shop with me. (I will make a commission off each sale, but prices are comparable to the other online sources for it also.)IMG_3986

BEFORE: Speaking of that bathroom, it got a huge makeover in September, when I was blessed to get to do a shopping spree from Homegoods and chose this room to make over. IMG_6472

AFTER:  And that was a lot of fun, as I repainted with Antique White, added new rugs in olive and chocolate brown and added several new pieces of artwork and accessories.

Vanity Mirror

It got a whole new look!  You can see the whole transformation here.

IMG_5741

BEORE: In July, I found this cute old mirror at a rummage sale and brought it home for $3, but you know it didn’t stay like that.  As cute as it was, it just got better… IMG_5847

AFTER: When I painted it white and sprayed it with chalkboard paint, it became a great meal planning board for the kitchen.  Now I use it every week for our Monday – Friday meals at a glance.  It really has helped me SO much with meal planning, a simple chalkboard.IMG_3150

BEFORE: Back to the beachy guestroom, in September, Grandma Eleanor helped me with this sewing project and the chair with fabric thrown on it for almost a year, finally got a real slipcover. IMG_8064

AFTER: I couldn’t have done this without Grandma’s help and you all shared in that project by watching her sewing videos, which were complete hilarity. You’ll also notice the little aqua side table changed from the Before to After pics.  I found the new one at a yardsale for $5 and painted it the same aqua color, since it was all wood and nicer than the first one.

So, that’s a wrap up of MY Top 10 Projects of 2009.  I had many more smaller DIY projects that I completed, but considered these the cream of the crop.  I can’t wait to see what all of YOU have been up to last year too.

Share away!  Please add a link back to the party on your post and only add your party post URL, please, not just a link to your blog!

I’m heading over to Atlanta on Thursday and will be going to the Gift Mart on Friday with my friend, Renae, and my sister, Renee.  Should be a LOT of fun and we’ll we walking our little feet off trying to take it all in.  And on Saturday, Renae and I will be hanging out with Eddie Ross and my sweet friend, Layla, too at the Tea at Two and framing workshop that Eddie is presenting, so if any of you are planning to be there, I can’t wait to meet you also!  Fun, fast and furious weekend, but I’ll share it all when I return!

Meanwhile, have fun looking at all these links (go, visit and comment, everyone likes a pat on the back!) and come back on Friday for a fun giveaway!

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  1. Christi @ A SOUTHERN LIFE
  2. The Good the Bad the (Formerly) Ugly @ Songbird
  3. Back Porch Musings – Top Projects 2009
  4. Top projects at PB & J Cottage~ rue
  5. Hooked on Houses~Top 5 Before & Afters
  6. Kammy – Small Home In The Country
  7. Richella at Imparting Grace
  8. bj @SWEET NOTHINGS
  9. HoosierHomemade (Office Organization)
  10. Annie @ Birdcages & Butterflies Some makes of 2009
  11. [email protected] Pleasures of Homemaking
  12. [email protected] and Cheese Laundry Room Re – Do
  13. A BEACH COTTAGE Garage Sale Vintage Trunk Makeove
  14. melissa * 320 Sycamore
  15. [email protected] Southern Living
  16. Jamie @ Jamies Creative Corner
  17. (remodelingthisl ife) A year of DIY 2009
  18. My One And Only @ Completely Coastal
  19. [email protected] DIY Show Off
  20. Marys paint flooring beadboard crafts & MORE!
  21. [email protected] Stories of A to Z
  22. $119 Kitchen Makeover and more!
  23. End of the year review! : )
  24. Barb @ Grits and Glamour : Top 5 Projects
  25. Stephanie @ Bona Fide
  26. Ashley @ The Happy Little Home – – Lots of re – dos
  27. Debra from Bungalow
  28. Cat Tunnel to Litter Box ([email protected] )
  29. MyRepurposedLife Photo gallery (2009)
  30. Happy Nester / Top Projects 2009
  31. Angie @ Baseball and Ballet
  32. Loulous faves of 2009
  33. Heidi – HEART AND HOME
  34. Toy Box & Wall Makeover
  35. Our Creative Life
  36. Posh Pieces Top 2009 – Bench Window seat toybox
  37. Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions
  38. [email protected]
  39. Trish @TheOldPostRoad – 2009 DIY Year in Review
  40. Just a Girl 09 Review!
  1. Signs of Obsession Favorite Furniture makeovers
  2. [email protected] cottage.com Kitchen paint / lights
  3. Melissa Miller~Garage Floor Paint Treatment
  4. [email protected] Your Nest
  5. Funky Junk – top 10 2009 furniture projects
  6. [email protected] Insanity
  7. Laurel @ Ducks in a Row
  8. Centsational Girls 2009 Before and Afters
  9. Furniture Before & Afters @ Mustard Seed Creations
  10. A Look Back @ Domestically Speaking
  11. TidyMom (Top 2009 TidyMom Projects)
  12. Organize & Decorate (top 10 organizing projects)
  13. ThriftyAnnabella – 2010 Projects
  14. Kitchen Remodel @ The Yellow Front Door
  15. Puna – My kitchen makeover
  16. Becs Traditional Fireplace Transformation !!
  17. My Top 10 DIY Projects of 2009 – Room to Inspire
  18. Sisters Christina & Victoria @ As Time Goes By
  19. Carolyn @ My Backyard Eden ~Favorite posts of 2009
  20. Life at our House (Befores and Afters of 2009)
  21. Coffee table re – do at No Stinky Cheese
  22. Kate @ Twenty – Six 2 Life : Top Projects of 2009
  23. Cindy @ Applestone Cottage.
  24. DIY Staircase Makeover (The Red Chair Blog)
  25. : : cottage instincts : : 4.5 months of review
  26. Cynthia @ An Accomplished Woman
  27. Shannon @ Coopers Corner – thanks for inspiration
  28. Coastal Charm – Recap 2009
  29. Casa Haus : Best of 2009
  30. junkblossoms Favorite Project of 2009
  31. $350 Chelsea Apt RE – DO
  32. Diningroom Remodel @ childmade
  33. Mini Mitten Tutorial @ childmade
  34. Pamela @ My Cozy Cubby – China Cabinet Redo
  35. Creative Little Daisy A look back at 09
  36. Year in Review @ Creating ME Now!
  37. Destination Seaborn~2009 Projects
  38. Amongst The Oaks 2009 Projects
  39. the Redneck Junkers
  40. Karla @ Its The Little Things…Top 12 Of 2009

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Filed Under: Projects and How-To 70 Comments

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jillinda Janeway says

    January 6, 2010 at 2:28 pm

    Hi Rhoda,

    I just had to leave a comment about how much I LOVE all of your projects. I’ve been a fan of yours for about 5 months when I found your link on my cousin’s blog (The Shabby Nest). I hadn’t seen many of these projects and now can’t quit thinking about them. I just hope that I can be brave enough to try them. I am a perfectionist and not a do it yourselfer. I think I am just too worried that I won’t like it or that I will totally mess something up. But your projects are truly inspiring.

    Reply
  2. Leanne says

    January 6, 2010 at 3:06 pm

    Thanks for hosting this fun party. I can’t wait to check out everyone’s projects and get inspired for more ideas this year.

    Reply
  3. Holly says

    January 6, 2010 at 3:20 pm

    Rhoda, you’re an inspiration!

    Reply
  4. Sarah @ Thriftydecorchick says

    January 6, 2010 at 5:28 pm

    Lovely Rhoda! Hey, is that a granite sink? I’ve been eyeing one for a year now and am so close to getting one. Everyone I know says they don’t scratch. Is it true? I just love the black!

    Reply
  5. Maggie says

    January 6, 2010 at 5:43 pm

    I don’t think that I have been as industrious as you. You put me to shame. I do have a little blog award if you care to visit though.

    Reply
  6. Christina says

    January 6, 2010 at 5:45 pm

    So many fabulous projects, but still your dining room is my very favorite. It is full of goodness. Thanks for hosting this party. I’m enjoying the links and have found some wonderful things.

    I added a link to a few of our projects. Couldn’t get ten up unless I ignored my children longer than I already have. : )

    Reply
  7. Sheila says

    January 6, 2010 at 6:15 pm

    Hi Rhoda,
    As I was reading through your post today I kept hearing myself say “Oh yeah, I remember that one” again and again. If I had to pick just one favorite it would have to be the picture frame molding post because as you well know, I copied it shamelessly in my own dining room. You are such an inspiration and I love how you always accomplish everything without spending a fortune. I am so looking forward to everything your wonderful blog will unfold in 2010. TFS! Sheila

    Reply
  8. Kimberly Knoess says

    January 6, 2010 at 6:40 pm

    Just found your blog today……….I am sooooo excited. I was reading abeachcottage and Sarah mentioned your blog, so off I was to take a peek. What a find! I feel very fortunate to have found your blog on the day you posted your top 10 and I am pretty pumped about the beadboard wallpaper – I will be looking for you to sell it soon.

    Reply
  9. Treasia Stepp says

    January 6, 2010 at 6:54 pm

    I’ve only recently discovered your blog and I have to say I am in awe. All of the changes you have made are just spectacular. I can’t wait to go see what everyone else has done as well.

    Reply
  10. Treasia Stepp says

    January 6, 2010 at 6:56 pm

    I hate to but I just noticed my link to my blog is showing up. So sorry but this is a test post.

    Reply
  11. Deb says

    January 6, 2010 at 7:20 pm

    Wow- you had a busy year! You’re inspiring me to get up and get it done on all those projects I’ve been thinking about..so I’ll wait on your new store- I’ve been thinking about my kitchen and between you and Layla’s kitchen redo- I have my inspiration!
    Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  12. cynthia says

    January 6, 2010 at 8:34 pm

    Hi Rhoda,
    what great projects you had, love the beadboard paper and that cute shelf in the bathroom! So many wonderful ideas, beautiful home, thanks for the inspiration!

    Reply
  13. Becky in SC says

    January 6, 2010 at 8:44 pm

    Hey Rhoda!
    You are truly one amazing Wonder Woman!! I sift through alot of blogs, but yours is my most very all time FAVE!!!
    I purchased two rolls of the beadboard wallpaper couple of months ago…just trying to find the time to get something started with it. Think I’ll start off in our half bath (it’s smaller) to see how that goes…will send pics of before and after!!
    Keep all those awesome posts coming!!

    Reply
  14. Amy at The Red Chair Blog says

    January 6, 2010 at 8:55 pm

    Wow, you’ve been a busy lady! Your projects are terrific–that corner cabinet may be my favorite. Thank you for hosting!

    Reply
  15. Anne Robinson says

    January 6, 2010 at 9:51 pm

    Your projects are wonderful. I appreciate your sharing them! You are one talented lady. Thanks for sharing with me. I love visiting your blog.

    Reply
  16. Heidi Lambeth says

    January 6, 2010 at 10:14 pm

    What awesome projects. I plan on using several of your ideas. Thanks for sharing and I cant wait to see what you will be doing for 2010!

    Many blessings Heidi

    Reply
  17. Kat says

    January 6, 2010 at 11:59 pm

    You did good girlfriend! It was fun getting to see all your hard work pay off.

    Hope your holidays were good.

    Hugs from the beach!
    Kat

    Reply
  18. Katrina says

    January 7, 2010 at 12:51 am

    If my memory serves me correctly, I began following you the day I ran into your guest bedroom blog. I was IN LOVE! You have so many excellent finds, and have tackled some really neat projects! I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us this year! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your life!

    Reply
  19. Katrina @ http://obscuredflair.blogspot.com/ says

    January 7, 2010 at 12:53 am

    PS Olive, white and chocolate brown are perfect together!!! <3

    Reply
  20. WendyBee says

    January 7, 2010 at 9:45 am

    Your projects take my breath away. I look at “before” picture and have to double-check to see if it’s really the “after” pic, b/c to me it looks quite nice. Then I see the “after” pic and think “wow, how did she know what to do to make it even better!” Then I scroll back and forth and think “Yup, I really do like the “after” better”. You’re rocking my confidence though, since I really like red walls and just recently did red walls (but definitely the wrong shade, sigh). So now, I wonder if I should stick with the red, and re-paint a more subtle shade? Or do I re-paint with a completely different, more neutral color (I’m thinking a very subtle gold…..)? You’re someone who has the talent and confidence to look at a room and know what to do. I sooooo admire that.
    WendyBee

    Reply
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Thanks for stopping by! I’m Rhoda, from Atlanta, GA and I love decorating and DIY projects. Decorating a home doesn’t have to cost a fortune and I’ve spent years thrifting at antiques markets and yard sales, finding those treasures that make a home unique. I’m here to inspire and encourage other women to find their own inner creativity. Won’t you join me?

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