"Launched in 2005, Home-Dzine was created to realise a dream; to express my love of home DIY and decor and share with other South Africans. As a non-commercial website I am free to express my own opinions and pass on valuable information to readers.
I feel that more people can benefit by being able to DIY home improvement and home repairs. And we're not talking about major DIY home repairs, but those that anyone with a bit of DIY savvy can do themselves."
Soothing nursery for a new baby
With a first baby on the way, the task of decorating the nursery can be daunting. You want to create a relaxing space that is cute and functional (filled with furniture and colours that could grow with the little one) and won't cost as much as a house.
Boy or girl, you need to decide early on for the colours you want to use ijn the room. Choose a colour palette that is both soothing and bright without being overpowering. After all, both you and baby will be spending a lot of time in the room during the first few months.
Furniture to last
If you have basic woodworking knowledge you can easily get involved in making a few items for storage in the room, such as an underbed storage drawer, some shelves and - if you're an expert - even items such as a changing table.
For a pop of colour in this sunny yellow room, the cabinet knobs were painted a bright green and hung alphabet prints above. A mirror and frames hung with bright ribbon would also complete the area.
Sleepy time
If you spend a little more on quality furniture, especially if you have plans for a large family, you will be able to select a crib that will be around for years to come. Some cribs even transform into toddler beds.
To soften the area, luxurious neutral bedding keeps baby cosy, and a plush shag rug lies below for playtime after a long nap.
Keepsake corner
With the same paint used for the dresser knobs, the shelf was also spruced up to match. It serves as a special place for a young baby's keepsakes and collections - and is the perfect spot for a monitor to watch over him.
Click here for instructions on how to make a simple pine shelf.
Custom creations
The beauty of having a custom monogram is the endless options for the design. Instead of hanging artwork over the crib, you can paint elaborate initials.
First, search the Internet for a design and have it blown up in black and white and transfer the design to the wall and fill it in with acrylic craft paint.
Window treatments
You can give windows in a nursery a special treatment without spending too much.
Hang blackout shades (a nursery necessity) and top this off with a decorative valance created using an inexpensive cafe rod and rod-pocket curtains.
On the move
Besides a closet - which is essential for clothing and baby items - you will still need storage options that are easy to access. A clothes horse beside the dresser holds towels and onesies for quick changes. The lightweight hamper can easily be toted back and forth (and back again) to the laundry, and a diaper caddy will move with you and baby through the house.
Although toys are sure to be strewn all over our house soon, look out for additional storage for toys and games that can be used later on when your little one gets older.
Details up above
A quiet fan is important to keep air flowing and baby comfy. Look out for a model that matches the room. .
To finish off the space, the ceiling was painted in a soft blue to add a touch of colour above, and works well with the yellow walls.
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