Author: Kim Cook
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Some fun spring options for place mats
The place mat is a favorite at many dinner tables: The often-whimsical plastic version catches the slip of spaghetti from a youngster’s fork, while a nice cotton place mat elevates the dining experience just a little without having to set down a whole tablecloth. There’s something civilized about setting an individual dining place with a…
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Check out the latest new helmets for kids
Kids who balk at the idea of wearing head protection for outdoor activities might find it harder these days to argue that helmets aren’t cool. From dry-erase helmets to ones shaped like animals and bugs to others in bright colors, many of today’s helmets are designed to make kids want to wear them long after…
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Right at Home: placemats with panache
The placemat is a favorite at many dinner tables: The often-whimsical plastic version catches the slip of spaghetti from a youngster’s fork, while a nice cotton placemat elevates the dining experience just a little without having to set down a whole tablecloth. There’s something civilized about setting an individual dining place with a frame of…
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Try Scandinavian style in your home this spring
Scandinavian style is casual and easy, with playful touches and a simple yet refined vibe. If all that sounds appealing as you shake off winter’s gloom, you’ll find many pretty, Scandinavian-inspired decor options for spring. Scandinavian style is typically anchored by whites and creams, which provide a light-filled canvas on which berry red, sky blue,…
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DIY: Chic, comfy and custom bedding
There are stores full of exquisite bedding. But fancy sheets, duvets and mattresses can sometimes fall short of our wish lists — in style, price, comfort or all three. What if you could make your own? You don’t need to be a professional designer, or even much of a sewer, to create one-of-a-kind bedding that…
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DIY: Chic, comfy and custom bedding
Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save There are stores full of exquisite bedding. But fancy sheets, duvets and mattresses can sometimes fall short of our wish lists — in style, price, comfort or all three. What if you could make your…
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Right at Home: Baby shower hosts get creative
If you’re throwing a baby shower for a relative or friend, creating a suitably festive atmosphere is part of the fun. Some people go all out by hiring an event planner, while others go more simply, taking the do-it-yourself route. Whether you’re nurturing an elaborate party plan or just want a little inspiration to get started, the Internet…
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Playground design goes on a nature hike
Architect and playground builder Ron King is part of a robust movement to bring back more natural play, with environments that serve up some messiness and risk-taking along with exercise. Kids may play on equipment for a short time, he says, “but then they want to run around. They want to climb a hill, scramble over rocks,…
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New gadgets promise safer, more enjoyable ride
Anyone who’s had the “check engine” light come on suddenly knows how unnerving that can be. Maybe it’s nothing more than a loose gas cap. Or maybe it’s something that requires a mechanic, fast.So CarMD, based in Fountain Valley, Calif., has created a hand-held diagnostic gadget that plugs into a car’s computer to monitor sensors,…
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Gilding the Halloween pumpkin: creepy chic decor
If you prefer a contemporary decor style, you aren’t interested in rustic jack-o-lanterns or homespun stuffed witches when Halloween comes around. But fear not: This season you’ll find lots of ghoulish yet glamorous pieces to fete the occasion. Modern Alchemy’s Memento Mori collection includes a set of beautiful black porcelain plates etched with silver skulls.…