Nest

Happy Weekend!

2012-01-28T10:41:00.002-05:00

Have a cozy weekend! Mine was made by Refinery 29 posting my latest Geometric necklace video. Feel free/please give their link some love (RIGHT HERE).

Truly Outrageous

2012-01-26T15:20:00.004-05:00

I turned on the television and in an instant was back in my best friend Petra's sun room watching episodes of Jem before school being blown over by the killer make-up donning the faces of the Holograms and Misfits.

Pizazz, of The Misfits, rocks an electric/tribal moment that I am totally digging. Not to even mention (ahem) THE OUTFITS.

I think there's lot to learn here, ladies. A lot to learn indeed.

Bowling Lane Coffee Table

2012-01-26T15:02:00.004-05:00

This bowling lane coffee table on MAKE could actually get my husband as excited about design as I am. Bowling League season 9 starts on Monday at Brooklyn Bowl!

The dishes are done, man.

2012-01-25T14:05:00.005-05:00

I am obsessed with my own fiestaware. Being able to change up the vibrant variety of lush colors daily keeps the collection fresh. It also makes it way easy to incorporate new fiestaware with the vintage I have collected through the years. It even made a cameo in my NEW FAVORITE SHOW.

My husband and I are in a race-through-the-day-to-get-home-to-watch-Breaking-Bad-until-we-pass-out kind of mind frame right now. Thank you, Netflix, for enabling us.

Paper Cut Art Valentine's

2012-01-25T11:25:00.002-05:00

I used to be THE BEST CARD GIVER and I fully admit to slipping into allowing the computer to correspond for me (not cool, Meg, not cool). Valentine's Day is a great excuse to hand make some sweet notes for your best friends, your mom (same thing), gay husband, or boo.

It's amazing what a little card stock and paper glue will do. I created some animal friends and some paper cut layered flowers that were really easy and simple to make, please feel free to use them as inspiration, or even print out the images to trace the animals yourself.

Who is your Valentine? Do you celebrate, hate, or not care at all?

Rumors

2012-01-23T15:42:00.005-05:00

I heard a rumor that made my heart POUND IN ANTICIPATION, but I can't find anything to back it up. A girlfriend told me that she HEARD Domino Magazine was returning (!!!!!!!/I KNOW). It might not be true. I must tell this right away. Just the thought of this got me so excited I gasped so loud I woke the dogs. I still have every single issue (to my knowledge) and read them religiously.

A couple of years ago my girlfriend Casey was hanging out at my house and asked if she could borrow a few of my Domino magazines. I said yes, clearly demonstrating my undying love and loyalty to my girlfriend. Casey pulled them off the shelf and saw how many tabs, doggy-ears and wrinkled pages there were due to my reading and re-reading them over the years. She looked at my archives (with judgement?) and said "Nevermind, you clearly need these more than me." And I do. I really, really do.

Read my other Domino posts here and check out the Domino Flickr set.

TGIF

2012-01-20T17:19:00.000-05:00

Have a lovely weekend!

Geometric Necklace How-To

2012-01-19T18:14:00.002-05:00

In my latest MACC video I show you how to make the gometric necklace that I wore in my upholstered headboard video. Check it out and be sure to SUBSCRIBE!

TODAY!

2012-01-19T10:50:00.001-05:00

...what would Tess McGill do?

2012-01-17T15:27:00.006-05:00

When life knocks me down a peg (I am 0 for 3 this week and FEELING THE BURN), I often think to myself...what would Tess McGill do?

She would pick herself up (steal someone's identity/accidentally drug herself/vacuum in undies/sleep with Harrison Ford in the 80's) and work her way back up to the top, THAT'S WHAT!!

But maybe not before she let herself feel the burn for a hot sec. Am I right, ladies? With three bigger-than-I'd-like-to-admit professional set-backs this week I am having a dollop of what Holly Golightly would call the mean reds. Only dogs, ice cream and watching all of my favorite movies will help this day out. After a few hours of feeling it whilst working (duh) I will do just that. Hopefully with glasses as large as Miss McGills.

Caftan Research

2012-01-17T12:14:00.004-05:00

Remember reading about this one in my April post? Well I found it marked down from almost $300 (downright insulting) to $40 in December and haven't taken it off yet! This is real hand-dyed silk and hot damn this caftan looks good. See it live action in my headboard video. My sweet and crafty Corinne and I have something really special in store for you!

I have been dreaming of caftans a) because the are beautiful b) I now have THREE c) in preparation for my DIY Caftan video.

It does not get better than Miss Cleopatra/Elizabeth Taylor in a Caftan with an ornate spiky headpiece (pour some out).

The 3rd image is model Marisa Berenson in California circa 1967, shot by Henry Clarke, bottom image is in the Rajasthan region of India, shot by Ken Scott, also in '67.

Beginners

2012-01-15T11:55:00.002-05:00

This is what an exquisite film looks like.

Wrong!

2012-01-14T13:10:00.005-05:00

I would have picked Ducky.

A die-hard best friend who loves you through your angst, bad-boy-faze, thrifted fashions and rocks snake skin loafers of his own? All valid reasons but the clencher is a four-letter word that rhymes with Potis Pedding.

My DIY Upholstered Headboard

2012-01-13T14:46:00.007-05:00

My husband, Will, and I have completely re-done our bedroom and have been filming it for my CRAFT bedroom series. In part I we painted the room, removed the carpet and installed Ikea click-together floors and added trim. In today's video, Part II, we show you how to make an upholstered illuminated headboard. Here is the video!

I added pillows, one of which was just a small fabric panel of a bird. It looks handmade in Mexico or Guatemala and it's gorgeous. For more info read the accompanying blog post.

Moonrise Kingdom

2012-01-12T17:50:00.001-05:00

THIS IS HAPPENING.

DATA

2012-01-11T12:13:00.005-05:00

I THOUGHT I would marry Mikey (when I was 5-10ish), even based a first-grade friendship with Marissa O'Grady on our mutual love for Mr. Walsh. Alas, he grew into a hobbit and I married a rock star who bought me this. I win!

Geometric Redux

2012-01-09T13:36:00.003-05:00

The geometric wreath I made for winter can be made into any shape for any occasion. I created a heart-filled Valentine's Day wreath to show you.

Here is the how-to from my channel,MACC. I LOVE a project that you can use for several purposes.

Horse Drawn Wagon

2012-01-09T13:10:00.003-05:00

The same amazing girlfriend of mine who started Tipico when she moved to Guatamala just opened another beautiful Etsy shop, Horse Drawn Wagon.

Both shops are 100% fair trade, give back and support the locals, and provide a bold and delicious taste of the the textiles and baskets in Guatamala. What I wouldn't give to pop on a plane and visit Alison, only to bring back a horse drawn wagon full o' textiles. Aren't these to die for?!

Word

2012-01-08T13:23:00.004-05:00

I found a sweet spin on wall quote art on SF Girl by Bay. I dig their version.

This is my Warhol quote with a video how-to and back story.

Mod Pod Balm

2012-01-07T11:01:00.007-05:00

I am INTO this new (USDA certified, my favorite words) organic lip balm, eos. I am digging/oddly obsessed with the all-too-lovely mod design. The balm is stellar too, particularly the mint and lemon flavors.

Why have lip balm that doesn't double as a mini design piece?

Headboard Sneak Peek

2012-01-06T11:10:00.002-05:00

The biggest snuggleface and the teeny, tiniest sneak peek of the headboard.

Macrame Neck Piece

2012-01-06T09:57:00.004-05:00

Woah. This is macrame neck piece is SICK. Ridiculous. In the best possible way.

I guess I am learning macrame now. Bring it.

Book Hou

2012-01-05T13:54:00.005-05:00

I love everything black and white and geometric so am all about Bookhou at Home. Soon there will be two of these in our kitchen...

and one of these round m'neck.

Finish Stuff

2012-01-04T10:45:00.006-05:00

New Year's Resolution #1- FINISH THIS. Which I started a year ago.

Progress? I unearthed it a couple of days ago whilst cleaning our office and it is a wrinkled mess, but so ready to be completed.

Spoiled

2012-01-04T10:25:00.007-05:00

Thank you santa, moms, husband, brother-in-laws, dads who know me very well/shop my Amazon wishlist. There were so many sweet gifts that I absolutely LOVE including:

-The above and below bunny lamp from the sweetest husband in the world.

-The Year of Magical Thinking that I already ate up in three beautifully painful sittings and can now basically barely leave the house. I am reeling from this raw, exquisite book and now I must read Blue Nights.

-My FAVORITE films of the year Blue Valentine and Somewhere. UGH. Obsessssed.

-My label maker! Expect labels on everything immediately. OCD much?

-2 Glass orbs that I coveted to hang and put succulents or air plants in to add to our new bedroom.

What are some of your favorite gifts? Any beautiful additions to your home?

French and Scandinavian Invasion

2012-01-04T10:22:00.002-05:00

It's a Le Creuset, french press, cathrineholm kinda morning.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T18:24:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I hope yours was perfect. I spent mine snuggled up in pjs with my husband & dogs, right where I belong. How did you spend yours?

This Photograph is my Proof

2011-12-30T17:33:00.005-05:00

I have had this post card since I was a teenager. It now is worn and has a red wine mark on it. It has hung in every home I have had and I love it.

Duane Michals, 1974 • This photograph is my proof. There was that afternoon, when things were still good between us, and she embraced me, and we were so happy. It did happen. She did love me. Look for yourself.

New Upholstered Addition to the Family

2011-12-30T11:52:00.008-05:00

My husband and I have been on the hunt for a new couch for the past couple of years. We love our currect couch, the "black hole of cozy", but it has several problems. It is awful for our backs, impossible to keep clean, and is HUGE. It is half of a 2-piece circle couch in a bright yellow that everyone thinks is green. It is aesthetically stellar but incredibly cumbersome, a quality New York City residents can't afford in their furniture choices. Here it is basking in the glory of it's press from Time Out New York and Apartment Therapy.

For a design enthusiast with Bo Concept taste and an Ikea budget needs time to locate the perfect piece to fill their very specific needs. After hunting for some time I found the perfect couch! It is the Baxter sectional from West Elm in a high-performance velvet (it totally doesn't look like velvet, I swear) in the shade Lagoon!

We went to the store and sat, lounged, relaxed on the couch. We asked copious questions about fabric durability, dog hair clean-up (our lives are sad) and when we felt that this couch sufficiently fills all of our needs, we ordered it! We left convinced it is the couch for us. A financial commitment ensued, and our couch is being custom made for us as I type. It will arrive in a couple of weeks and I am beside myself with glee. I can't wait to do a photoshoot when it arrives and sits gorgeously in our home ready for it's new SNUG LYF. Will I have a hoarder-like melt-down when I have to say goodbye to the old couch? Probably. I am a grown-up child of divorce who avoids separation and endings at all costs, but this one will be worth it!

We will miss you yellow (yes, it really is yellow) couch.

Goal: 10,000 Subscribers

2011-12-29T13:53:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year's sweet Nesters,

I hope you all had a lovely, happy and healthy holiday with your family and that 2012 brings nothing but joy your way!

I have worked really hard this year and have seen a lot of exciting successes. Once being Meg Allan Cole Crafts, my channel that I partnered with YouTube. In just a few short months I have almost 9,000 subscribers and am doing a BIG PUSH to try for 10,000!

Here is how you can support me.

-If you have a Gmail account, all you have to do is click the "subscribe" button on the top of Meg Allan Cole Crafts.

-If you need a Gmail account, it is super easy to sign up and is all right here for you in this link.

-You can also share the MACC link on Facebook, Twitter or tumblr, or e-mail people who you think would enjoy my channel.

In the Do-It-Yourself vain, I have created this channel from the ground up and must continue to do so. I truly couldn't do any of this without your continued support!

Happy New Year and lots of love!

XOX, Meg

9 Years

2011-12-28T11:08:00.007-05:00

I have been with Will Cole for 9 years today. A lot of love has been shared in these 9 years. A lot of back-having, hand-holding, side-splitting laughter, head-over-heels love, pushed-to-the-brink-patience, deep acceptance and forever forgiveness.

We work hard on being the best individuals we can possibly be so as a couple we have more to share and give one another. It doesn't happen over-night and it isn't easy. The part I never understood, was why love had to be so much work. It isn't work to be with Will. It certainly isn't hard to love him. What is challenging is always pushing myself to be better, kinder, more deserving. The challenge is communicating my needs, trying to identify his, and doing my best to meet both. The hard part is dealing with my own anxieties and fears and stresses (ohmygodtherearesomany) in a way that affects Will in the least negative way. We are all incredibly imperfect, but we try to be better for each other. That is the work. Being with and loving my dear, sweet, hilarious husband...that is the easiest thing in the world.

No one can comfort me the way this man can, no one understands and accepts me as deeply. With one look he eases the pain and lightens the load. With one smile I know I'll never be alone, and his hand on the small of my back is more romantic than any film. He is my dearest friend, closest comrade, and wherever he is will always be my home.

Dallas & Thirtysomething

2011-12-27T13:53:00.006-05:00

I am OBSESSED with the aesthetics, style, wardrobes and sets of both Dallas and Thirtysomething. Dead serious. Get on board.

I grew up watching Dallas and re-fell in love circa 2006, only to have my love of everything Southfork grow exponentially through the years. You've read of my love of all things Ewing here before, and will again.

Thirtysomething I discovered as a mere 20-something in college. I watched wide-eyed envying the Steadman's and heart-breaking for the Westons. And visually I die for the chunky knit sweaters, shoulder-padded blazers and pretty much everything else worn in this 1987-91' television show. I am collecting images of each through the seasons to share some of their aesthetic inspiration with you. I EAT UP late-70's-early-90's style and love television shows during this time even more because of it. What shows do this for you?

Merry Christmas & Mulled Cider Recipe

2011-12-27T13:14:00.004-05:00

Here's hoping you had the happiest of holidays with the ones you love!

My husband and I shared our holiday with two of our three families this year. For those of you who have divorced parents, thus 3-4 families, you understand. It tore out my heart to not be with my dad and step mom and family this year, but it was less hectic/crazed/sleep-deprived than our past rushed trips fitting in 3 families in a few days. We went to Alexandria, Va, and the Northern Neck in Virginia where my in-laws have a home. What a wonderful, cozy, loving time we had at both places. We for serious have the best families ever.

DIY Garlands

2011-12-16T17:26:00.007-05:00

We always have fresh garlands adorn our home in time for our annual holiday cocktail party, and this year my heart was set on keeping up the tradition. We went to several tree places all over Brooklyn and Manhattan this last week and everyone was out of garlands! Blasphemy! Yesterday, with mere hours in between guest arrival time I decided to whip something up myself. I got some freshly cut branches from the Christmas tree stand and some wire. When you can't find it, DIY it! Here is how to do it yourself.

You need:

Branches from a Christmas tree
Small pruner
Galvanized wire in a dark shade
Nails
Hammer

Lay your branches out over-lapping the ends. Prune and cut them to the shape you want. Wrap galvanized wire around the two joining ends to connect them together. Hang with nails over windows and doorways and your home will look and smell like Christmas!

Time: Under 1 hour Cost: Under $5!

They really made our home feel cozy and warm for the party. everyone loved the garlands and were way impressed I had made them myself. What are YOU making to cozy-up your home this holiday season?

Best of DIY Holiday Gifts & Decor

2011-12-16T12:34:00.003-05:00

The holiday season is in full swing and we all need winter decor and holiday gifts for those we love. I curated 33 of my favorite DIY gifts, ornaments, and holiday decor ideas and have them all for you in one video. Be sure to also check out my holiday play-list and SUBSCRIBE!

DIY Bedroom Make-Over

2011-12-03T11:51:00.005-05:00

Holy-DIY, Batman! My kick-ass husband and I totally re-did our bedroom on our own! Painting, flooring, adding trim and plenty of do-it-yourself tips for renovating your own room. A little TMI, plenty of dog shots and special edits done by Erik Beck. This is a good one, guys.

Here are some of the design elements involved.

For more, you can read the accompanying blog.

DIY Headbands & Holiday Decor

2011-12-01T10:53:00.004-05:00

Here I show you how to spin the DIY decor and accessories I made for Rob and Corinne's wedding into fabulous pieces for you and your home.

With the holidays come cocktail parties, and you and your home need something a little extra fabulous to make you the bell of the ball. Put your own touch on these and personalize to your taste.

Subscribe to my channel!

This is beautiful.

2011-12-01T10:45:00.000-05:00

Faux Fur Wrap

2011-11-12T15:21:00.004-05:00

I am really excited and proud of the subject matter of my most recent video. Real fur is unacceptable, so I offer an alternative with a faux fur wrap. Never a fan of either in the past, I wanted to offer a solution instead of just "being against" something, so here is my response to still seeing dead animals on models in magazines.

If you concur, please spread the video far and wide. I would love it to reach as many as possible. To read more and see the pattern I created check out my CRAFT blog.

Craft blogs

2011-11-10T11:45:00.012-05:00

I am now blogging 4 times a week on Craft, so be sure to subscribe and check back often to the main, kick-ass blog or my personal archive. These posts are exclusive to Craft and include an amazing woodland home, inspiring design, luxurious DIY beauty how-to's, cutting edge crafts and more. Here is a taste of my favorites, click on the links to read the full blogs.

Chevron Cookies, Cat Eyeliner How-To,
Black Swan Make-Up, Chalkboard Cloud, Half Moon Nails, Atomic Age Clock, Spike Hair Comb

Eggs and Bacon and Breakfast of Champions Halloween Costumes

2011-10-23T09:51:00.003-04:00

With Halloween fast-approaching, here are two adorable and funny costumes you can easily spin out of one project, Eggs and Bacon and Breakfast of Champions. This is for sewers AND non-sewers, and is easy enough to throw together at the last minute.

Want to include your small-fry? I show you how to scale down the measurements for your dog or kiddo.

For more, check out the accompanying blog post.

DIY 80's Halloween Costumes

2011-10-23T09:47:00.002-04:00

With our favorite holiday approaching, here are 5 rad 80's costumes to DIY in time for Halloween!

I worked with Savers again to combine thrifted pieces with Halloween accessories and my DIY creations to bring you back to the bodacious 80's.

The Goonies map is coming soon! There will be a link right here in a day or two for you to print out your very own treasure map.

3 DIY Halloween Costumes: Bridesmaids, Zombie Bride & Carrie

2011-10-07T12:21:00.004-04:00

Halloween is just around the corner and we want to look amazing without breaking the bank, so I teamed up with Savers to bring you 3 different looks with one trip to the store. Here is my spin on the movie Bridemaids, Zombie Bride with a full make-up tutorial, and the classic horror film Carrie.

Peter Pan Collar Pattern

2011-09-15T11:37:00.005-04:00

Peter Pan collars are a classic look worn by women since the early 20th century, but they scream Twiggy and Rosemary Woodhouse due to their mod come-back in the 60's.

I have always loved this classic look, and wanted to put my own spin on it including sequin plaid and faux leather.

Here are 3 modern DIY ways to create your own timeless, classic Peter Pan collar inspired by the Spring 2012 Fashion Week runways.

Here is the paper pattern I used to create my Peter Pan collars in the video. The marked spots measure 8 1/8" on my pattern, so print your out at that size, or adjust according to your neck measurements.

You can play with the size of the lapels and make them as large or small as you want. Add a scalloped edge to make a scalloped collar! How would you spin it?

Atomic Age Clock

2011-09-14T10:18:00.003-04:00

Mid-century modern is such a gorgeous era and is permeating the design scene. In this CRAFT video I make a midcentury atomic age clock and another, alternate starburst wall piece to add to my statement wall.

Here is the accompanying blog with more photos and info on the paint and design.

Neon Colorblock Heel

2011-08-30T17:26:00.004-04:00

In today's video from Meg Allan Cole Crafts I take Spring 2012 Fashion Week runway trends neon, nude & colorblock, and bring into an easy DIY heel.

This is just the first of a series of DIY fashion week videos, be sure to subscribe to my channel to catch them all.

80's Punk Fringe Glove Video

2011-08-23T13:38:00.016-04:00

In today's video for Meg Allan Cole Crafts I show you how to make a sweet 80's punk vegan leather fringe glove as an homage to one of my all-time favorite John Hughes movies, Some Kind of Wonderful.

Be sure to subscribe to my channel, leave a comment on MACC, and please feel free to share the video!

I have been dreaming of the gloves Watts wears in this film forever and design a simpler version to suit the vegan leather I picked up at my local fabric shop.

Here is a template to use for your pattern piece. Make sure it yours is twice the width of your hand plus two inches.

Do yourself a favor and listen to the soundtrack. It is timeless, epic, and incredibly atmospheric.

Meg Allan Cole Crafts

2011-08-22T09:59:00.002-04:00

I am so stoked about Meg Allan Cole Crafts! Here, I personally welcome you to my new channel, and give a call to action about what content I will provide. Please subscribe and share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr.

xox, Meg

Flashdance Welding Video

2011-08-15T11:02:00.003-04:00

In this epic video, I show you how to transform a vintage typecase into an industrial table. You can weld, as I show how, or add sweet mid-century hairpin legs. Uh, be sure to relish the epic Flashdance dream sequence. Yeah, you read that right.

I worked super hard on this puppy, so please support it by spreading it around vie Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, Stumbl Upon, etc. Thanks so much!!

Full blog post.

Meg Allan Cole Crafts

2011-08-09T11:30:00.004-04:00

I am very excited to announce that I now have my own YouTube channel Meg Allan Cole Crafts with all of my videos in one special place. There are playlists with every single episode of my series with Craft, Decor It Yourself, Etsy, Curbly and even my guest appearances on Threadbanger. I will be creating new content for it soon, so please subscribe and join the Facebook page. Starting from scratch is always tough, so any and all support and spreading of the word is really appreciated. Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, bring on the social media sharing!

Just my dog

2011-08-02T10:13:00.004-04:00

"He is my other eyes that can see above the clouds; my other ears that hear above the winds. He is the part of me that can reach out into the sea. He has told me a thousand times over that I am his reason for being; by the way he rests against my leg; by the way he thumps his tail at my smallest smile; by the way he shows his hurt when I leave without taking him. (I think it makes him sick with worry when he is not along to care for me.) When I am wrong, he is delighted to forgive. When I am angry, he clowns to make me smile. When I am happy, he is joy unbounded. When I am a fool, he ignores it. When I succeed, he brags. Without him, I am only another man. With him, I am all-powerful. He is loyalty itself. He has taught me the meaning of devotion. With him, I know a secret comfort and a private peace. He has brought me understanding where before I was ignorant. His head on my knee can heal my human hurts. His presence by my side is protection against my fears of dark and unknown things. He has promised to wait for me... whenever... wherever - in case I need him. And I expect I will - as I always have. He is just my dog."
- Gene Hill

May everyone feel the love I have with my dearest dogs.

Silhouette Dog Portrait Using Illustrator

2011-07-18T15:55:00.006-04:00

In July's video for Craft I find another way to capture the precious perfection this is my dogs. Whomever you adore can be documented in this unique and lovely way as well. Check out the video to see how!

You can put these on pretty much anything, plates, plaques, or sew them onto fabric.

This was the FIRST time I have ever used Adobe Illustrator or the cutter, and I made out like a bandit. Let me be an example to anyone intimidated that you can totally learn this. If you need any additional help, you can google any question about Adobe or any other program, and answers will come. This is how I have gotten myself out of a few pickles in Final Cut Pro.

How would you fashion yours?

Nautical Lamp Re-Vamp & Beachy Bathroom Decor

2011-07-18T15:06:00.008-04:00

Hello nesters and HAPPY SUMMER! My apologies for my absence, June was a month filled with friends and family in need, landmark moments, all rewarded with a week-long vacation. I have been working hard and playing hard, with lots of exciting projects in the works. There is a very exciting new step coming very soon, that I will share here on Nest first. In the meantime, I have bee blogging twice a week and making monthly videos for Craft. You can find my archives here!

In June's video I take my I-wish-I-lived-by-the-ocean bathroom to the next level with a few fun projects. I first took an old lamp and transformed it into a sweet new nautical accessory with rustic rope paired with the sharp white and navy stripes. Enjoy the video!

In addition to making the lamp, I reupholstered my vintage chair with a great Finnish fabric, made the sea urchin at the top of the post, and made a belt using sailor knots.

I actually feel more relaxed and calm when I shower or bathe in the lovely loo now. It is amazing what creating a little escape in your home will do for you. Do you have one?

Animal Rack Video

2011-06-14T17:22:00.004-04:00

My latest video for Craft is a sweet take on a mini animal rack. Here is the full blog post on Craft .

Here are close-ups of the sweet animal heads. What combination would you use? I love the cats,and especially dig the dinosaur head.

How-To: Mushroom Stools

2011-05-13T15:50:00.005-04:00

I am super excited to be blogging regularly on Craft:, so be sure to check my regular Wednesday and Friday posts, along with the incredibly innovative and rad content that floods the blog daily. I will also be doing a Make:Project once a month, and today I posted the very first installment, How-To: Mushroom Stools. Will and I had these stools that we use all the time, but have gotten really gross over the years. I cleaned them off and transformed them into adorable mushrooms to match their fungi friends. I show you how to right here!

My Video: Wall Monograms with Plaster Letters

2011-05-10T10:54:00.004-04:00

Here is the latest installment of my videos with Craft:zine, Wall Monograms with Plaster Letters. This is a fun project for a wedding, graduation gift to take to college, kid's room, or just a nice way to represent the ones you love in your home. Check out the video, and leave a comment over on our YouTube page. Share, like, tweet, go crazy!

Caftan Covet

2011-04-28T14:23:00.003-04:00

Ugh, I am seriously coveting this caftan from Anthro. It's making my heart hurt just a little bit.

Amnh Photography Series

2011-04-26T17:31:00.003-04:00

I am swooning over this sweet boy taking it all in at the Museum of Natural History in Joseph O. Holmes amnh #30. The silhouette of the lone little man against the vastness of the land is so stunning. Holmes's style and approach create a really incredible portrait that is intriguing in aesthetic and also precious in the moment that they capture.

Also available at the amazing 20x200.

Swimming

2011-04-25T14:12:00.007-04:00

Water has always had such a calming effect on me, and as someone who often is in desperate need of calm, I have taken up swimming. I swim laps at the rec center near my apartment and have found such peace and solace in the water. I usually swim 2/3-1 mile, but even just a few slow laps of the breast stroke brings a comfort I can't find anywhere else. Swimming has become my zen and therapy and touch stone.

I used to struggle with creating time to do anything that was just "for me". Unfortunately that meant that exercise and meditation of any kind would fall by the wayside for days to weeks at a time. I always felt like there was something else I should be doing. Some work to finish up, someone to do something for. Turning thirty changed that for me somehow. There is still always something or someone I could or should be giving to, but now I include myself in that pool of people. When three decades come and go, you realize the days will keep spilling into weeks and months, and that if you don't make some changes in your life to be better to yourself and others now, it might never happen. So, as a thirty one year old woman, I take time for myself. I create quiet moments for myself to sit and breath and take in the moment. I swim and take long walks with the dogs and go to the gym more often and take baths. I am more focused in my work and have a more grounded self to give those I love. Doing this for myself has resulted in me being able to give and be better for everyone. Before I know it I'll wake up and have kids and I'll be exhausted and won't have time or energy to give to anyone but my little ones. That will be lovely. But I am glad I have this moment right now, where I can connect with myself.

Do you ever struggle with this balance? It's hard for everyone, but women especially seem to struggle with this. How do you find moments of peace and calm in your lives?

(Chateau by Jeremy Kohm, Orb 3 by Carlo Van de Roer from
Available at the amazing 20x200.)

Diane Birch's Apt in Refinery 29

2011-04-08T11:46:00.006-04:00

I love the tribal, bohemian, ethnic feel of Diane Birch's apartment featured in Refinery 29.

The Mexican and South American textiles are so lush and rich (minus the dead animals/fur). But really, what I couldn't give for that caftan. Ugh.

MS Walk for my Sister

2011-04-05T10:26:00.007-04:00

My sister, Lauren, is amazing and hilarious and a loyal, dear friend whom I adore. Every day my sister lives with and fights MS. One day each year the rest of us can stand with her, and everyone living with MS, to show our support and love. The MS Walk is coming up again in 2 weeks, and again, it is the one time of year I ask for a little donation. Anything you can give helps raise money for research, and shows people like Lauren they are not alone. Donate here!

Thank you for all of your help in the years before, and for any and all help, love, or energy you can send this year. So far I have collected $600 in checks, and raised over $200 on-line. My goal is to raise more than the $1,000 we did last year. Raise the bar!! See our previous walks here and here.

Much love, Meg

Color Block Mountain Painting

2011-03-25T16:13:00.003-04:00

In this Craft video I tie my mountain lodge office together with a color block mountain painting inspired by the Blue Ridge Mountains in my home state, Virginia.

I only had to buy one can of paint and a canvas, making this not only an easy project, but a really cheap one as well. Be sure to read my accompanying blog post to see the other sweet color block ideas out there.

Tipico Market Totes

2011-03-24T18:31:00.005-04:00

Look at these vibrant and beautiful market baskets from tipico. They just scream Summer to me and make me feel like I am sitting on a beach in Mexico sipping a pina colada. Why am I NOT doing that?

Ugh. My problem is I want them all!!

Buy them HERE.

Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-23T14:12:00.000-04:00

Rest in peace, Elizabeth Taylor.

This is your space...

2011-03-15T18:25:00.004-04:00

I LOVE this 'This is your space...' print by The Resesenner Holt Shop. There are some really clean, crisp and modern prints like this in the shop to choose from.

Organizing the Bookcase

2011-03-15T12:20:00.000-04:00

The secret life of a bookcase.

Blacksmith Video

2011-03-14T12:21:00.003-04:00

Here is the new Craft video where my friend Alex Himmelbaum teaches me how to blacksmith. As a complete novice, I was so excited to see how this new technique is done.

The forge (the fire) is so super-hot that when I went to take a piece of metal out of it, while wearing gloves, it began to melt the tag on my gloves! A seriously dangerous technique such as blacksmithing requires having an expert like Alex on hand. Just sayin'. Ejoy the video, and feel free to go over and comment on it on the Craft page or on YouTube.

Dreamcatcher

2011-02-24T18:52:00.007-05:00

In this video for Craft, I made a dreamcatcher for our sweet Corinne Leigh's birthday. My darling friend moved to L.A. and I miss her terribly, so went to visit her for her birthday and brought the dreamcatcher with me.

I wrapped hemp twine around an embroidery hoop for mine, but you can use an old leather cord, twine, whatever you have.

They are surprisingly easy to make and I just love the finished piece. You can add charms, shells, beads, anything that has significance and good energy to you.

Look how cute my little side-kick is.

Amy Sedaris is MAKING CRAFT VIDEOS

2011-01-21T11:37:00.003-05:00

I can rest easy now. I can die now. I can be so over-the-moon thrilled because our little Amy Sedaris is MAKING CRAFT VIDEOOOOOOS!

I say our as if she were my child, but I have loved this genius since having "Strangers With Candy" nights at my apartment circa 1999. Yeah, I'm that old.

The Kids Are Alright

2011-01-10T14:59:00.002-05:00

Best film of the year.

In my humble opinion.

Patrick Hruby

2011-01-07T14:41:00.006-05:00

Have a cozy, snowy winter weekend!

I leave you with the work of artist Patrick Hruby that I am really into.

Hruby has even delved into dishware, which I also dig.

Vintage Swiss Air

2011-01-06T12:30:00.004-05:00

Oh how I swoon over these vintage Swiss Air posters. So clean, crisp and lovely. Just like Switzerland.

One would look so nice framed and hung in my home, so I can look at it and dream of future trips to Zurich.

Trapeze

2011-01-05T16:06:00.002-05:00

I love the trapeze swing in the living room. In case you missed this post by Cup of Joe.

Bowling for Coach

2011-01-05T14:12:00.005-05:00

In case you were wondering my dad is a Coach. A high school football Coach. Much like a doctor it is a title he holds dear to his heart and like a soldier wears proudly like a badge of honor you get in NAM. I, on the other hand, am a theater geek/nerd-o-rama/big klutz. So at the tender age of right now, when I finally got a higher score bowling than my dad/Coach, it was a full-circle kind of moment for me. I might just be a little proud.

*Note the misspelling of Wednesday.

Apartment Therapy + Jonathan Adler

2011-01-04T12:48:00.009-05:00

One of the many benefits and joys of living in New York is the close proximity to some of your favorite artists, musicians, and designers. My dear friend, Shivonna, and I decided to take advantage of this opportunity and attend the Apartment Therapy holiday design meet-up at Knoll Studio with special guest Jonathan Adler.

Knoll is the mecca for those of us in love with the mid-century designs of Charles and Ray Eames, Henry Miller, and are obsessed with Barcelona chairs, the Bertoia chaise, the Platner Lounge collection, and (below) the Wassily chair (sigh).

And then there were all of the fabric swatches you can get those dreamy pieces in.

Jonathan Adler did a slide show of some of his favorite rooms that he's done. I had to snap a few of these to share with you, as they are really next-level. The first is a collection of Adler accessories that have such fun colors, bright, bold design, and a great sense of humor. He pairs this whimsical aesthetic with a practical, edited functional space to create a fleshed-out, killer room.

This is my fav. The perfect teenager room for Max with the 70's built-in's and sweet M-A-X chrome tables. I dig the black and orange.

A little hard to see, but that is a lucite bed set and silhouette couch.

Nothing says mid-century Southern California chic that floating furniture on a circular rug.

Nerd alert photo. Me with Maxwell from AT.

Retro Christmas Video

2010-12-13T11:24:00.005-05:00

Happy Holidays, Nesters.

From our family to yours!

I love everything about the Christmas season, especially retro modern holiday decor, so in my Craft Christmas video I bring you a retro orb ornament or tree topper, and an easy mulled cider recipe.

You can make this sputnik orb the top of your tinsel tree, display is in a vintage glass bowl, or give it as a gift to a loved one. Either way it should add a retro, Mad Men style to your holiday season.

Other ways to bring that great 50-60's look into your holiday season are using vintage Christmas linens, adding plaid where you can, or making this tinsel tree, as I showed you how last year.

All You Need Is Love

2010-12-08T10:09:00.003-05:00

War is over if you want it.

A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.

Imagine all the people living life in peace. You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. I hope someday you'll join us, and the world will be as one.

Remembering a beautiful soul today who made the world a better place for evermore.
John Lennon was killed 30 years ago today, but we remember and celebrate his life and legacy always.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-03T18:13:00.003-05:00

This is just the start of another holiday season and I am already so excited about the twinkling lights, tinsel trees, music and tasty treats.

We are getting our home all cozy and Christmasy. Getting out the ornaments and Santas bring back so many nostalgic, loving Christmas memories. I'll share pictures of that soon, but until then here is my mom with her brothers on a Christmas many moons ago. I love the tinsel, the Swedish carolers on the mantel, the tiger stuffed animal and all of the kids faces. Have a lovely weekend, a happy Hanukkah and a warm start to the holiday season!

Style Made Simple

2010-11-24T11:01:00.005-05:00

I love all of the cozy and gorgeous rooms featured on Style Made Simple. Bohemian chic, modern mixed with aged antiques, each room has a layered and cozy, lived in feel, yet feels fresh and polished.

Above photos:
Photos by Mikkel Vang for Vogue Living, Laid back living room source unknown, Handcrafted modern by Leslie Williamsson, The Marion House Book, Vogue Living.

Table Decor for Thanskgiving, Dinners, or Wedding

2010-11-22T12:48:00.004-05:00

Our friends Justin and Marissa got married this weekend, and I helped them create seasonal decor to bring some of the outdoor elements in for their special day. These tablescapes would be a really lovely way to go for a Fall or Winter dinner, a holiday party, or a wedding as we did.

Be sure to check out the blog post that has several other table decor ideas as well, along with the perfect touch to any table...placecards.

His & Hers

2010-11-19T12:22:00.003-05:00

I love this His & Hers decanter set and got it for my dear Rob & Corinne as an engagement gift. Now that they are moved into their new home, I can ship it so they can toast to their impending nuptials. (tears)

Happy Weekend!

2010-11-12T13:57:00.001-05:00

Let's sleep here.

(via F Yeah Beds)

Color Block Cabinets

2010-11-12T12:14:00.001-05:00

The coolest cabinets via Home Sweet Home.

Reclaimed Wood Wall

2010-11-09T12:18:00.004-05:00

This is probably the coolest thing we've ever made.

For my most recent Curbly post my husband and I created a Reclaimed Wood Wall with recycled materials from Build It Green NYC. It was so fun and completely transformed the kitchen. Click here to see the video and please share with friends!

Bonsai!

2010-11-04T16:51:00.002-04:00

One of my favorite birthday gifts was this bonsai tree form my brother-in-law. I love it and clearly Milo does too. This is a great gift idea, so keep it in mind for birthdays and holidays.

Create a Chevron Bar

2010-11-01T17:17:00.003-04:00

In my latest Curbly post, I show you how to take a piece of vintage furniture like this....

and transform it into a Chevron Bar that looks like this.

Read the post to see how!

Building a Mad Men Bar

2010-10-27T16:01:00.002-04:00

If all of this talk of fall entertaining drives you to drink, never fear, that's all you really need to be a great host. In this Curbly post or my series Get Nested I show you the elements of creating a Mad Men style bar. Stay tuned for a how-to of my own bar re-do tomorrow!

Easy Entertaining Tips

2010-10-26T19:12:00.006-04:00

Click here to watch and read the next installment of Get Nested! I offer some easy entertaining tips to make the fall hosting season as seamless as possible. Enjoy and see more of our Get Nested series on Curbly.

Get Nested, Tasty Fall Recipes

2010-10-26T18:50:00.004-04:00

My Get Nested series with Curbly kicked off with this mouth-watering post. In it you’ll find the winners of the ebook giveaway (5 of you! thanks for entering!) and my mom’s pumpkin bread recipe that is to-die-for. Click here to read and watch.

Be sure to join the Facebook page to get the latest posts and links and you can follow Curbly on Twitter.

Ghostbusters Ghoul Armchair

2010-10-24T11:04:00.003-04:00

With only 1 week until Halloween, check out my creepy Halloween decor and costume ideas in this scary addition of my CRAFT:zine video and the accompanying blog post. This is a great last minute idea that will be a really rad piece, plus a cool photo booth idea for your party. Are you attending or hosting? What costumes and decor are you going for this year?

Get Nested Trailer

2010-10-14T15:34:00.002-04:00

We're getting closer to the fun new series I am doing with Curbly starting next week. Above is the trailer, and you an check out the official web page here Next week I'll announce the 5 winners of the Make It! Hardware Store Decor e-book in the first video so be sure to subscribe to our videos to make sure you tune in!

Get Nested with me at Curbly

2010-10-01T12:20:00.007-04:00

Starting on October 18th, throughout the month of October and November, I will be coming to Curbly to do a Fall series Get Nested.

Since Fall marks the start of many months spending time indoors, we are going to get your home ready for it....starting with the kitchen. Head on over to the Get Nested FB page to stay posted on when and where.

As a friendly gesture for your loyal support, you can enter for a chance to win a FREE downloadable e-book, Make It! Hardware Store Decor. Simply "like' the Facebook fanpage of 'Get Nested' and leave a comment below to enter. 5 lucky people will receive a free down-loadable copy of this rad book with gorgeous photos of awesome DIY projects like this light up letter G for Gracie:)

Industrial Pendant Light

2010-09-08T10:50:00.005-04:00

I have some really exciting news to share, for the rest of 2010, I will be making a video a month with Craft! Be sure to subscribe to their YouTube page and follow Nest to stay up-dated. For this first installment, I was asked to tackle dorm room decor, so I made this industrial pendant lamp and gave some dorm decor tips in this blog post.

These lamps from Anthropologie and Brooklyn Bowl were my inspiration. Please watch the YouTube version (for views) and leave a comment on what you think of it over there. Thanks so much for your continued support!

Eco Jewelry Giveaway

2010-09-07T12:24:00.007-04:00

The winner of this give-away is ajh1985! Congratulations! We will ship out your earrings when we get your address via e-mail.

This week starts off with great news for YOU. GCB Designs, the lovely eco jewelry line designed by the very sweet Gayle Baker, is offering a pair of her double-knot earrings to one very lucky reader of Nest. To enter, make sure you are "following" Nest, and leave a comment on this post between now and next Monday, September 13th. I will announce the winner the morning of September 14th. It's that easy! In addition, all nest readers receive free shipping during the week of the contest.

GCB Design's Mission Statement:

To create wearable art while doing as little damage to the Earth as possible and giving back to the global community so that others might succeed.

By using only antique diamonds and reclaimed gold & silver, we make recycling into an art with each piece hand-crafted in the USA by artists in Southern California. We have achieved the balance of combining designs born of dreams, living organic forms, and vintage design with the desire to produce environmentally responsible jewelry and to contribute to the conservation of the planet.

It's artists like Gayle, who put this much thought and love into their work, that made me start this blog in the first place. Thank you to those of you who take the time to create art and fashion that align with a green, kind ethos.

Be sure to check out the website for more beautiful pieces like this Palm bracelet.

*This contest is for US residents only. My apologies to my over-seas friends, we will make sure the next one includes you.

Please Vote for Our Brooklyn Nest!

2010-08-31T13:50:00.006-04:00

I have a quick favor to ask of you sweet nesters, and it just requires a little click.

I submitted Our Brooklyn Nest for The Selby CB2 contest, and I would really appreciate it if you would CLICK HERE AND VOTE FOR IT! You can then tweet, Facebook it, or scream it from the rooftops! You have seen, firsthand, how hard we work on our place, this would mean a lot. Thank you, thank you!

MOMA

2010-08-30T13:40:00.007-04:00

Here is just a taste of my afternoon spent at MOMA. A magical, evocative place that I could just eat up. Here are two iconic design chairs in their perfect mid-centry display to get you started.

Saarinen Womb Chair by Knoll Studio

Eames La Chaise

More to come!

Deer

2010-08-18T14:55:00.001-04:00

LOVE this. Originally from this.

PULP

2010-08-18T12:27:00.008-04:00

Tied with The Pixies as my favorite band of all-time, PULP is as stylish as it is delicious to listen to. Atmospheric, epic, sassy, moody, sexy, PULP is Brit-rock at it's best.

A pre-teen me saw the Different Class album in a record store in State College, PA, and without even listening to it, HAD to have it. Bought on site with just the aesthetic sealing the deal, I have never been so satisfied with a discovery.

As if their music wasn't enough, their tangible aesthetic slays me as well. Capturing the raw, sexy atmosphere of their sound, each album has killer art, and a lot of it. Different Class even let you choose your own album cover(!!!). Someday I will own all, framed, in my basement lounge with shag carpet and wood paneled walls.

I could devour it all.

I've been working on this entry for a minute, so I died a little seeing Apartment Therapy's post this morning on Jarvis Cocker, the lead singer as a style icon.

Even his offspring is equally as stylish.

Twitter Trailer

2010-08-13T13:02:00.003-04:00

Friend, Erik Beck, of Indy Mogul fame, made this about-to-go-viral Twitter trailer for his show Rated Awesome. A hilarious parody of the Facebook trailer, star-studded with the internet's favorites. And me.

Wire Design

2010-08-10T14:21:00.003-04:00

House Beautiful recently tweeted a trio of wire decor, including this red wire bowl and Cargo Chair.

The bowl is from Ikea and the chair was created by Stephan Schultz. This incredibly unique and crazy cool wire sculpted piece intrigues me. Stark, linear and modern, or fill it yourself with whatever you choose!

Would you fill it or would you leave it empty?

I am loving this genre and may just have to DIY some wire pieces myself.