EP118: Jump Into Home Repairs, Choosing a Designer, and Desk Refinishing Project

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Segment 1: Jumping into Repairs

We’ve probably all been there. It’s late and something in our home suddenly breaks. The washer. The dryer. The AC. You name it. And sometimes we are too timid to try and troubleshoot on our own. We’re afraid we don’t have the skills. But if we can do it, so can you. Start small and work from there!

Segments 2 & 3: Choosing a Designer

Sometimes, when it comes to decorating, we need a little help. Jennifer Butler and Andy Yates from Jennifer Butler Design walk us through the important things to look for when hiring a designer. You’ll be working very closely for a while so choose wisely.

Segment 4: Desk Refinishing Project

About a year ago we picked up a cool roll top desk at the Grand Rapids YMCA White Elephant Sale. We didn’t know anything about it other than it was smaller than a normal desk. That led to a little research project where we learned that the desk was a child’s desk from the Sears catalog in the 1930’s.

We were inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s dining room at Monticello with its chrome yellow walls. With that in mind, the paint and stain started flying!

EP117: Yankee Doodle, Multi Generational Living, and Projects Using Distressed Wood

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Segment 1: History of Yankee Doodle

Growing up, most of us learned a plethora of patriotic songs that we pulled out of our memories for the 4th of July. This year, we decided to look into the history of a childhood favorite, Yankee Doodle. Do you know what a Yankee Doodle Dandy is? The answer and story behind it may surprise you.

Segments 2 & 3: Multi-Generational Living

We’re hearing about it more and more: multi-generational living. The trick is, how do you get a home to function for all ages under one roof? Derek Anderson, owner of Amber Valley Construction, walks us through some important considerations and even offers advice on a book to read (Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud) BEFORE we make the leap.

Segment 4: Projects Using Distressed Wood

Barn wood can be expensive. It can also be tricky to find. And who wants to risk bring all kinds of bugs into their home? But it looks so cool!

Back in Episode 106, we talked about how to make your own barn wood out of new pine planks. Today we’re giving you a few ideas to put that barn wood to good use!

 

EP116: Paint Organization, WalVac Vacuum System, Replacement Windows, Color Kryptonite

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Segment 1: Paint Organization

We open the show talking about some crocheted water balloons Betsy has been working on for an upcoming golf outing. They’re very easy and quick to make. Check out the pattern and get some use out of these re-useable balloons.

This segment REALLY isn’t about water balloons, but how to organize your paint so the next time you touch-up or repaint, it doesn’t turn out to be the wrong color. All you need are some index cards and an index card file box!

 

Segments 2: WalVac Vacuum System

Who doesn’t love a clean house? But who likes lugging a vacuum around; especially on steps? Lucky for us, there’s a solution! WalVac vacuum systems are the perfect way to make cleaning a whole lot easier!

Segment 3: Replacement Windows

The term “replacement window” strikes fear in many of us. There are literally thousands of options and we often envision a salesman coming and randomly knocking on our door. But it doesn’t have to be like that. George Clark from WMGB Home Improvement walks us through some basics of replacement windows and sets our minds at ease. There are people out there who can help us make sense of it all. George is one of those people!

Segment 4: Color Is My Kryptonite!

We hear about how people struggle with color a lot in our stores. And people think that’s bad. They feel that choosing a color shouldn’t be hard. But you’re not alone! Caroline Dwan, Field Marketing Manager for Benjamin Moore, talks about her OWN struggles with choosing color. People think that because she works for a paint company, she MUST be good at it. But as Caroline explains, color is her kryptonite. Sounds like the beginning of a super hero movie…..