monochrome
our
f r
TRY THIS
>
i f
Update your wooden floor with
r
a dark sexy finish. After sanding
and sealing, stain it using a walnut
L
and black mix, then finish with ^
\ _
satin varnish.
1-3. Complement black-and-white
decor with mirrored items, touches
of silver and metallic finishes. For
visual interest, combine cushions,
throws and seating in various
contrasting textures - smooth and
rough, shiny and matt. If you
prefer, you can include pieces
featuring glamorous beading and
sequined edging or embroidery.
4. Dress your walls with exquisite
handmade leaf prints. Simply lay
fresh or faux leaves on dark cotton
fabric. Then, wearing plastic gloves,
put a 1:1 mix of household bleach
and water in a spray bottle. Lightly
spray solution onto fabric - the
longer you leave it on, the more
dramatic the colour change. Wash
fabric in a bucket of water with
laundry detergent and a bleach
neutraliser (such as Napisan) fora
few minutes. Rinse under running
water, then hang to dry. Press,
then, allowing for turning and
gluing edges, trim fabric to suit
size of frame’s backboard. Stretch
fabric taut around backboard and
glue down edges. Arrange your
new print in the frame.
For shopping details,
see Stockists page
38
BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS, MAY 2011 bhg.com.au
