How To Preserve Leaves For Craft Projects

I am always so sad at the end of Fall when all of those beautiful leaves blow off the trees. It never seems to last long enough when every window I look out of is a burst of yellow, red, or orange. That’s why I decided to try and save some of that color to use in leaf craft projects. It’s really quite easy to do. In fact, there are several different techniques for preserving leaves. I’ll show you how to preserve leaves easily using Mod Podge.

How To Decorate With Vintage Metal Toolboxes

I don’t know what it is about vintage metal toolboxes but I can’t seem to get enough of them. So far I’ve collected quite a few and I’m always looking for more. When I get too many, I usually just sell them. It’s pretty much a revolving door of different toolboxes around here but there are a couple of favorites that have hung around since I acquired them. A lot of times, I use them for hidden storage. The key, for me though, is to remember what I am storing in the boxes. Out of sight, a lot of times means out of mind.

Mainly, I like to see the toolboxes displayed. Whether I use them for storage or to make a centerpiece with, I love seeing all of that distressed metal. Vintage metal toolboxes have a lot of character and you can find them in a variety of different colors. Here are some of the ways I like to decorate with the toolboxes.

how to decorate with vintage toolboxes

As a Base For Centerpieces

fall vintage toolbox centerpiece

The cool thing about metal toolboxes is that you can just lift the lid and fill it up with some of your seasonal favorites. This centerpiece is a simple example for use in the Fall. I just filled it with faux fruits, pumpkins and acorns.

vintage toolbox prop

Add a Vintage Metal Toolbox to a Side Table

end table with toolbox insert

I just happened to have a table with an opening that was the right size for one of my favorite boxes. It gives adds to the industrial feel of the table and I can keep remotes or other small items in there for storage. Toolboxes also look great on top of tables!

end table close up

Place a Toolbox on a Shelf

toolbox on tqble

I also have a table with a lower shelf that fits a toolbox nicely. There have been times that I place a toolbox on a wall shelf or in a bookcase as well.

Use a Toolbox to Hold Decorative Items

Christmas tool box

This idea is pretty much the same as making a centerpiece. I had a few homemade Christmas trees that I wanted to display together so the red toolbox made a perfect base for the grouping.

My Visit to Magnolia Market at the Silos and What You Can Expect

I’ve recently returned from a two-day visit to Waco to see the Silos with my daughter. Before going, I had a small idea of what to expect but it was so much more than what I had ever imagined. Between the whole picturesque layout of the property, quaint shops and the tantalizing food offered at the many food stations, it was such an awe-inspiring pleasure to all of the senses. While there, I learned so much about visiting the Silos and Magnolia Market and have some great tips and many photos to share with you.

The entire Magnolia shopping complex takes up two blocks and consists of Magnolia Market, Magnolia Home and a row of specialty Silos Shops that include everything from plants, books and paper, baseball paraphernalia, handbags and jewelry, bath and body, and souvenirs. Although I was shopping mainly for home goods at Magnolia Market and Magnolia Home, I did end up buying some souvenir merch. I just couldn’t resist a fun Silos cap and Magnolia Market t-shirt and tote!

The Grounds At The Silos

magnolia market

When you first walk into the shopping complex, you can sign their guest book to let them know you were there. You may even want to take a peek at who signed in before you and where they came from. All of the outdoor spaces are beautifully landscaped and inviting. Prepare to be inspired from the moment you walk through the gate.

silos baking co

A great place to start a big day of shopping is at the Silos Baking Co. You will need the extra carbs for the sport of shopping so fill up on the delicious cinnamon rolls or cupcakes! I ordered the cinnamon roll and tried a tiny piece of my daughter’s cupcake. Both were amazing! Most likely, you will need some coffee too so pop over to Magnolia Press for your favorite latte.

magnolia press coffee

Even though I stuck to a plain latte with almond milk but no flavoring (I already was on a sugar high from the cinnamon roll), my latte was extra delicious. I also ordered mine iced because it was so hot outside and it helped to cool me down nicely.

silos patio
the silos
vintage green truck
magnolia seed storefront

Unfortunately, Magnolia Seed and Supply was temporarily closed when we were visiting (as of July 2024). The grounds were beautiful and definitely worth seeing though.

magnolia seed and supply
everyone has a story worth telling
silos lawn

Although all of the bean bag chairs were very inviting, it was too hot to sit in the sun when we were there. This area is a great place to relax or take part in a little friendly competition of cornhole. I would recommend grabbing a lavender lemonade from the Magnolia Table Concessions before you head over there to sit. You won’t be disappointed!

The Magnolia Table Concessions

magnolia table

If you are fans of Chip and Joanna Gaines, you probably have heard about their restaurant, the Magnolia Table. The restaurant is about eight miles from the Silos but I wasn’t able to make it there on this trip. Instead, I ordered from their take-away concessions location at the Silos next to Katy ballpark. Even though they have a limited menu there, I ordered exactly what I wanted to try from the regular restaurant. I had heard that the biscuits with strawberry butter are to die for and they absolutely are! My mouth is watering just remembering the amazing taste.

magnoliz chapel

This beautiful little chapel sits on the property and adds to the picturesque and quaint vibe throughout the complex. You can go right in and sit on one of the pews to relax a little and escape the heat.

Inside The Magnolia Market And Magnolia Home

magnolia marketplace
magnolia home
inside magnolia home
magnolia home accessories

I love how game pieces are incorporated into decor. For some fun ideas on how to use game pieces in decorating, check out Crafting With Old Game Pieces.

magnolia bed and bath
magnolia market kitchen display

As you would expect, there is so much to see and be inspired by with Joanna’s curated goods. From new items to antique finds, there is plenty of eye candy for your home.

Shops at The Silos

Besides the Magnolia Market and Magnolia Home, there are some small specialty shops to add to your shopping experience.

Ferny’s Retro Plant Shop – plants and plant accessories in retro style decor

Chapter One – stationery, books and paper

No. 16 – this shop was named after Chip’s baseball jersey number and is stocked with caps, baseballs, books and more of Chip’s inspirations

Tried and True – handbags, jewelry and other accessories

Vie Bien Aimee – bath and body products

The Souvenir Shop – Magnolia branded apparel and accessories

Tips For Visiting The Magnolia Market At The Silos

Enjoy the Shopping Perks

Download the Magnolia app for an in-store discount of 10% off all food and merchandise with some exclusions at the specialty shops. The savings can really add up if you make a lot of purchases!

Plan for the Weather

I visited the Silos in July which was very very hot. Both days reached close to 100 degrees. The stores are all air-conditioned, which is great, but if you want to spend more time on the grounds then Spring or Fall would probably be ideal.

Consider Staying at One of the Downtown Waco Hotels

We stayed at the AC Hotel Waco which was the closest hotel to the Silos. In fact, the Silos was directly behind the hotel making it very convenient to walk right there. Since we flew right into Waco, the only time we needed an Uber was to the hotel and then back to the airport. Everywhere else that we wanted to visit was just a short walk away.

Begin Early in the Day

The earlier you get started in the day, the less busy it will be. This is especially true of the bakery. I went before 9 am and had no problem getting in. However, by noon there was a waiting line to even get into the bakery. The shops also get busier as the day goes on so if you want to get good pictures and avoid the crowds go early. The Silos is open 9 am to 6 pm each day except Sunday when they are closed.

Other Places of Interest In Waco

  • The Magnolia Table for breakfast or lunch
  • Tour the Hotel 1928 which is owned and was renovated by Chip and Joanna. Eat dinner at the hotel at the Brasserie or Bertie’s on the rooftop.
  • Visit the bookstore, Fabled, and make sure to order a Honey Pot latte while you’re there!

New Scripture Wall Art on A Farmhouse Style Canvas in Twig and Tweets Etsy Store

I’ve been busy lately designing new patterns for throw pillow covers and phone cases. On top of that, I started a line of scripture wall art in a clean farmhouse style. The Bible verses are paired with a hand-drawn simple design on a neutral cream canvas. If you like to hang inspiring messages on your wall, you may be interested in some of the verses I have chosen. I like to hang scripture that serves as a great reminder of some of the most important messages. My collection is started with four popular Bible verses and I am welcome to suggestions for other scripture to use.

20 DIY Mason Jar Christmas Gifts

When you are at a loss for a gift idea, just put something in a mason jar and call it good. It’s almost as easy as that! From sweet or savory treats to candles or small accessories, everything looks more festive in a nostalgic-looking jar. Many jars are large enough to hold the dry ingredients for cookies or soups. The layered ingredients not only look nice but the gifted ingredients make baking or cooking so much more efficient. Besides jars for ingredients, there are so many other easy to make DIY mason jar Christmas gifts.

20 Easy Thanksgiving Vegetable Side Dishes

What do you look forward to more on Thanksgiving, the turkey or all of those wonderful side dishes? It’s true that the turkey tends to take center stage at the holiday meal. However, the side dishes don’t just sit on the sideline either. At what other time do we really beef up all of our vegetables to the point of being such decadent and drool-worthy casserole dishes? Simple sweet potatoes turn into practically a dessert and a side dish of corn becomes more like a hush-puppy casserole. I think it’s safe to say that all of those Thanksgiving side dishes deserve as much of the center stage as the turkey – if not more!

Not only are the vegetable casseroles a highlight on Thanksgiving, but they are also fantastic for leftovers. If there is anything left over at least. I like to make plenty so that we are ensured of something to feast on for several days.

Because my family loves the side dishes so much, many of them are repeated at other times like Christmas or Easter. I have put together a list of recipes for our favorite Thanksgiving side dishes as well as other side dishes I have found that would be great additions to the Thanksgiving meal. Try some of these recipes this year and let me know what you think!

25 Christmas Wreath Ideas You Can Make

With the holiday season underway, most people like to put a stamp on it by hanging a wreath on their door. It’s a sure way to tell people that you are in the holiday spirit! However, before you go out and purchase a brand-new wreath, you may want to consider making one yourself. Like homemade ornaments or DIY garlands, it’s also really easy to make your own Christmas wreath. These DIY Christmas wreath ideas will have you getting your creativity on and tackling one for yourself in no time.

30 Industrial Decor Ideas For Loft Style Living

Once upon a time, home decorating was all about brand new finishes and elegant and chic decor. One would never have thought of going to the plumbing department to shop home decor pieces. Or, the ductwork that was always bulk-headed and left hidden, forget about it with industrial style decorating. Now those metal ducts are the coolest thing ever. In fact, you will be surprised at how many industrial decor ideas are a matter of going back to the basics!

The trend started with old buildings being renovated into lofts or apartments. Many are left with open ductwork and exposed brick walls. Wood floors are typically old and weathered and oh so charming. The style has really taken off and can easily be incorporated into any type of house. Once you see these unique industrial decor ideas, you just might fall in love yourself!

100 Clever Sayings For Wood Signs

saying for wood sign
Saying For Wood Fishing Sign

Have you ever been stumped for what to put on a wooden sign? You love the idea of a decorative sign. You even have all the tools to make one. The only thing lacking is inspiration on what to say. If you want your DIY sign to be fun and unique, you will definitely want to read through this list of clever sayings for wood signs. Some of the quotes and sayings, you may be already familiar with. It may have just never occurred to you that the saying would be great on a decorative sign.

What To Do With Old Sweaters

Old sweaters with snags, stains, or style issues may not be good for wearing anymore but they can still be used in new ways. Just think about all of those decor items that you see in stores with knitted accents. You can get these same looks without having to knit a stitch. Upcycled sweaters can easily be turned into pillows, vases, cup cozies, and so much more. I’ll show you 25 popular crafts, using old sweaters, that will turn your pile of misfits into beautiful decor accessories.

Creative Ideas: What To Do With Old Books

If you are a reader, you might of an excess of old books lying around. Chances are, you may end up with more titles that you want to get rid of rather than keep. These old books don’t have to be thrown out, however. They can be easily upcycled into some creative decorative decor. Although vintage books can be decorative enough to use for simple display, other books may require a little bit of crafting. Luckily, there is so much you can do with every part of a book. I’ll show you what you can creatively do with old books to give the new life. From the hard covers to just the spine and all ofthe pages in between, there is a decorative way to use all of it!