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At The Picket Fence with Vanessa Hunt

Where Ideas for your Home Meet Inspiration for your Heart

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June 30, 2011

4th of July Decor-“Bang” for your Buck!

Every year at about this time I have the same songs running through my head.
“America” by Neil Diamond
“Surfin USA” by The Beach Boys
and
“Living in America” by James Brown

If you are anywhere near me the week before the Fourth of July you will be sure to get my full rendition of each of them with the occasional dance moves thrown in to embarrass my family

for good measure.

So, it was no surprise that I was humming along to these songs while I added some super easy, super budget friendly and super festive
Fourth of July Decor to my front porch!
If only I could do the splits like James Brown. Or surf. Or sing.
But, I CAN be a big ol’ copycat, which is exactly what I knew I would be doing when I stumbled across the July 2010 issue of Good Housekeeping in one of my many piles of magazines.
I loved these ideas and wanted to see if I could try and recreate them.
This first idea from Good Housekeeping, is the epitome “No Sew” and took me all of about 5 minutes.
I dug up some old cushions which had been stored away.
Ummm…yeah…now that I look at them, I’m pretty sure they were the ones that came with that couch we got a long time ago and then subsequently gave away a few years later.  Probably should have given them these too, huh?
Oops!
Oh well!
After gathering my materials (4 bandanas and some festive ribbon), I placed each cushion between the bandanas (I did the blue on the bottom and red on the top). Next I gathered up the corners and wrapped them with a rubber band. And then it was finished off with some fun coordinating ribbon.

It doesn’t get much easier than that!
Total cost for 2 pillows-$6 (for 4 bandanas and 1 spool of ribbon)
Next up was this “flower tower” as I like to call it.
I searched through my stash of pots and planters until I came up with 2 terra cotta pots that could easily be stacked. After filling them with potting soil, I took my red flowers and placed them all along the inside rim of the bottom pot. This left an opening in the middle for the other pot to be nestled in.
White flowers on top and the addition of 2 flags finished off this easy-peasy floral arrangement!

Total Cost: $5 for the plants!

This next inspiration photo I found to be just so lovely in its simplicity and really a fun twist on “Red, White and Blue”. Now, I didn’t have a darling little ticking stripe pouch.
But I did have this vintage inspired bucket/thingy that is flat on one side  so it can be hung on the door.
That is the technical term I am told…”bucket/thingy which is flat on one side“.
I very happily clipped some roses from my rose bushes which are finally in full bloom.
Then, I placed them inside a Ziplock bag filled with water and then tucked
 the entire thing inside my flag bucket.
Total cost for this project: FREE!

So, for a little over $10, I was able to add some “spark” to my Front Porch for the Fourth of July!
How are you getting ready to celebrate Independence Day?
Will James Brown be involved?
Thanks for joining us as we continue to decorate the Fence for the Fourth!
This post is Partying at the following places:
DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesday
DIY By Design: Sizzle into Summer
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
Debbiedoos Copy Cat Challenge
House of Hepworth: Hookin’ Up with HOH
Common Ground: Vintage Patriotic Party
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
Stuff and Nonsense: Friday’s Unfolded

52 Comments Filed Under: Decorating, Fourth of July, Holidays

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Previous Post: « 4th of July No-Sew Pennant Banner
Next Post: Welcome to Inspiration Friday No. 21 »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Emma says

    June 29, 2011 at 2:13 PM

    So lovely ~ you look set to celebrate! Where can I find bandanas??

    Reply
  2. At The Picket Fence says

    June 29, 2011 at 2:31 PM

    So I know we shouldn’t comment to each other on here but I don’t care! Seriously Vanessa I ADORE this! All of it! And the photos are fabulous!! (Okay so forgive me folks…I couldn’t help myself) 😉

    Reply
  3. Debbie says

    June 29, 2011 at 2:35 PM

    Blogger ate my comment.
    Bad blogger. Bad blogger.

    Trying again but shorter. I love this and the bandana project is RIGHT up my alley. You might see me copying you. I also think the half bucket thingie is fabulous and like your arrangement even better than the hydrangeas.

    Crossing my fingers and toes…

    Reply
  4. Heather says

    June 29, 2011 at 2:41 PM

    What great ideas! Yours looks spectacular!

    Reply
  5. FABBY'S LIVING says

    June 29, 2011 at 3:00 PM

    Beautiful Patriotic arrangements all over the property…I particularly love The arrangement on the porch’s door…love it! I usually put my bow, that I have in my Patriotic post, right now…hope you visit. Happy 4th. of July. FABBY

    Reply
  6. Lois' Laughlines says

    June 29, 2011 at 3:02 PM

    I found your blog thru Sweet Bee Cottage….O LOVE your bandana cushions… Fun blog, thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  7. Sue says

    June 29, 2011 at 3:15 PM

    Great copy-catting!! LOL I like the small change-up with your bucket/thingy, too! If I don’t know the name of something or my aging brain forgets it, I call them “whatchmajiggers!” Love the re/white/blue theme. I have to run upstairs and get out my own decorations for my wreath. I’m slow this week- too much fun and partying at the wedding! hugs, Sue

    Reply
  8. ⚜ ↁℯℬℬᴵℰ⚜ says

    June 29, 2011 at 4:11 PM

    I am so very lame this year, I have done NADA to get ready! Cute cute pillow!

    Reply
  9. Janette - The2Seasons says

    June 29, 2011 at 4:13 PM

    Thanks for the great ideas. My head is spinning – in a good way!!!

    Reply
  10. Jane @ Jane's Junk and Treasures says

    June 29, 2011 at 4:27 PM

    I gotta do that bandanna thing!!

    Reply
  11. Mrs.B says

    June 29, 2011 at 4:48 PM

    CUTE ideas!!!

    Reply
  12. Honey at 2805 says

    June 29, 2011 at 4:58 PM

    Great ideas! Love to get “bang for my buck”!

    Reply
  13. Richella says

    June 29, 2011 at 5:17 PM

    These are great, Vanessa! So fun and festive and very inviting-looking. It looks as if you’re ready to play baseball, serve hot dogs and apple pie, and set off some fireworks! 🙂

    Reply
  14. Pam - diy Design Fanatic says

    June 29, 2011 at 6:44 PM

    Great ideas Vanessa! I love the flower tower!

    Reply
  15. Sherry @ No Minimalist Here says

    June 29, 2011 at 9:42 PM

    Hi Vanessa, Such cute ideas! I especially love the bandana pillow. I guess I better get busy decoratng for the 4th.
    xo,
    Sherry

    Reply
  16. NanaDiana says

    June 29, 2011 at 11:25 PM

    Really cute ideas, Vanessa! Isn’t someone hosting a copy cat series? These would all be perfect for that!!! Maybe DebbieDoo?

    Love the pillows and the front door thing is very cool…and the planter idea is very sweet. Great job! xo Diana

    Reply
  17. Babs says

    June 29, 2011 at 11:33 PM

    Great ideas! Love the bandanas as pillow covers. Too cute!
    Babs

    Reply
  18. Pamela says

    June 29, 2011 at 11:37 PM

    Loving the flower tower and the pillow!! Great inspirations girl!

    Reply
  19. Sherry @ No Minimalist Here says

    June 30, 2011 at 12:22 AM

    Hey Vanessa, I just wanted to drop by again to say thank you for joining my party.
    xo,
    Sherry

    Reply
  20. Patti says

    June 30, 2011 at 12:30 AM

    Very festive…love the idea of the flower tower!

    Reply
  21. MaryAnn says

    June 30, 2011 at 12:58 AM

    What great ideas. Thanks for copying them, and sharing. I like the stacked pots. I just love red, white and blue… means summer to me!
    MaryAnn

    Reply
  22. Kim @ Savvy Southern Style says

    June 30, 2011 at 2:00 AM

    Excellent job of copying those. Love the bandana idea.

    Reply
  23. Ceekay- Thinkin of Home says

    June 30, 2011 at 3:09 AM

    Great ideas each one! I love your flat metal thingy with the flowers. Beautiful!

    Reply
  24. Kathy says

    June 30, 2011 at 3:11 AM

    How wonderful, great job. I haven’t seen the magazine but I bet your version is as good if not better then theirs. Your porch will be wonderful, have a great 4th. Kathy

    Reply
  25. Kathy says

    June 30, 2011 at 3:11 AM

    How wonderful, great job. I haven’t seen the magazine but I bet your version is as good if not better then theirs. Your porch will be wonderful, have a great 4th. Kathy

    Reply
  26. All That Glitters says

    June 30, 2011 at 3:51 AM

    You did so good girlfriend! I have a confession to tell you! Just a few weeks ago I figured out you changed your blog name! I’m soooooo sorry for being a little on the slow side!

    Reply
  27. Miss Char says

    June 30, 2011 at 10:15 AM

    Great ideas and good pricing too! Love the look of the door art and those pillows are such a great project for those who don’t sew.

    Reply
  28. Lynn says

    June 30, 2011 at 2:02 PM

    love your bucket thingy! the flowers look so cute and great idea with the ziploc baggie. I will definitely steal that little useful tip! thanks missy 🙂

    Reply
  29. Alison @ The Polohouse says

    June 30, 2011 at 4:46 PM

    Gorgeous images!
    Happy fourth!
    Have a lovely weekend.
    Found you through Kim at SSS!
    xx
    Alison

    Reply
  30. Okio B Designs says

    June 30, 2011 at 10:48 PM

    Love those bandana cushions!

    Jeanine

    Reply
  31. Lina - Fancy Frugal Life says

    July 1, 2011 at 2:15 AM

    Really enjoying your blog and linky parties! Your bandana pillows are super cute and festive! Love cheap and simple ideas!!

    Lina
    Fancy Frugal Life

    Reply
  32. ⚜ ↁℯℬℬᴵℰ⚜ says

    July 1, 2011 at 3:35 AM

    Well this post the other day motivated me..so I did do more festive decorating around here. I love these copy cats. The bandana as I told you is my fav…I can’t get over how easy it is. Thanks for sharing, and YES, I will do this again.

    Reply
  33. Eileen @ Cottage Beach House says

    July 1, 2011 at 6:03 AM

    Venessa, I love all of your items! The pillows are great! I love that simple and unique idea! And your roses are so pretty in that bucket thingy 🙂

    Reply
  34. bj says

    July 1, 2011 at 6:37 AM

    OMYGOSH…I love those cushions..I have 4 outdoor ones that need something done to them and THIS IS IT, SISTER !!
    My thanks…
    This is such a fun party..so glad she is doing it again.
    xo bj

    Reply
  35. Jacqueline~Cabin and Cottage says

    July 1, 2011 at 1:48 PM

    The pillows are just genious! Your display is over the top fun to look at! Happy Fourth!

    Reply
  36. Maggie says

    July 1, 2011 at 2:58 PM

    3 copycat challenges in 1.
    They’re all great copys but the bandana cushions are my favourites.
    So simple and yet so stylish, I have to find some bandanas!

    Reply
  37. Debra @ Common Ground says

    July 1, 2011 at 4:28 PM

    Love all your great ideas for creating a big “bang” with your 4th decor. Such a cute idea with the bandanas!! Have a great weekend!
    xoxo Debra

    Reply
  38. Jo says

    July 1, 2011 at 1:36 PM

    O’…I’m still trying to get my mine on the keyboard and can’t stop thinking about this copy cat,WOW! you sure are ready for the 4th, and every project turned out great, love this and I know you had ton’s of fun and gosh!..so inexpensive too, now that’s fantastic.Love it all!
    Happy 4th to you and yours!
    ~Jo
    LazyonLoblolly

    Reply
  39. Courtney ~ French Country Cottage says

    July 1, 2011 at 2:23 PM

    So charming Vanessa! I love this project- it came out just fantastic- my favorite is your front door~ love it! Thanks for sharing this at FNF this week! 🙂

    Reply
  40. D says

    July 2, 2011 at 3:43 AM

    Excellent job. Those pillows are soooooo cute!

    Reply
  41. PⒿ @ $ € € ₦$ ₣®0₥... says

    July 2, 2011 at 9:51 AM

    You’re extremely clever and you keep some cool stuff around the house….which means you were born clever! Beautiful copy cats!!

    Reply
  42. Linda @ A La Carte says

    July 2, 2011 at 1:19 PM

    WOW! I mean you really made some cool items and your versions turned out great! I love the cushion and how easy it is. I think I love the stacked flower pots also. I came over from Debbiedoos and your copy cat was wonderful! hugs, Linda

    Reply
  43. Queenie says

    July 2, 2011 at 3:43 PM

    Everything looks precious! Love those bandana pillows..happy 4th 🙂
    Q~

    Reply
  44. Carol says

    July 3, 2011 at 12:43 AM

    LOVE THE PILLOWS & PORCH DECOR. SURE WISH WE COULD SIT ON THE PORCH WITH YOU!

    MOM & DAD

    Reply
  45. Paula Jo @ Home and Garden Decor says

    July 3, 2011 at 2:04 AM

    What beautiful red, white, and blue decor for the 4th. I just love the pillows. I will have to remember this for next year decorating. It’s to late to make them for this year’s celebration, with all the cooking going on. Thanks for sharing. Have a wonderful 4th!!

    Reply
  46. Fishtail Cottage says

    July 3, 2011 at 5:08 AM

    Coming over from Common Ground’s link party to see your fantastic ideas you shared…xoxo, tracie

    Reply
  47. Honey at 2805 says

    July 3, 2011 at 4:22 PM

    Eventhough I commented earlier in the wek, I’m back to say you did a great job in the Copycat challenge! After pulling my hair out, I came up with something, sort of.

    Reply
  48. Nora says

    July 3, 2011 at 6:17 PM

    Found you through a pin of your cushions on Pinterest this morning. Love the cushions, though I’d take the extra 5-10 minutes to make envelope back covers (my kids are too wiggly, the tied version would come apart in no time flat), the wall pocket floral arrangement is cute – better than a wreath, & the flower pots…I’ll have to replace my solar lights with flags – cute idea!
    Thanks for sharing
    ♥hugs♥

    Reply
  49. peter says

    July 5, 2011 at 4:44 AM

    Great site very informative I enjoyed it thank you…cheers Peter

    Reply
  50. Becca says

    May 28, 2012 at 7:19 PM

    These ideas are super!! My favorite is the tied bandanas!! Love the cushion!
    xo Becca

    Reply
  51. Lori Stevens says

    July 5, 2015 at 2:32 PM

    Absolutely loved this! Great job…I’m always looking for “cheap and easy” ideas but look beautiful! Well done and a new fan here!

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Fourth of July: Setting the Scene | Sassafras Store says:
    June 25, 2014 at 9:32 AM

    […] one is easy enough that anyone can do it! With just a few Bandanas and Colorful Ribbons, you can give those old, faded patio cushions a fresh new look just in time for your […]

    Reply

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“Those who know your name trust in you, for you, “Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.” Psalm 9:10
This is one of my most favorite projects from my b This is one of my most favorite projects from my book Life in Season! 

Because, if heaven has a fragrance, I’m fairly certain it smells like lilacs.

I think that somewhere along the way the verse in the Bible that said, ‘heaven will smell like lilacs’ just got lost in translation. But it HAD to have been in there at some point, right?

When I bury my head in the blossoms (which I absolutely MUST do every single time I walk past them), I immediately feel a stirring in my soul.

It seems like I wait forever for my lilac tree to bloom. Every year I anxiously watch as the buds begin to form on the branches and then when the blossoms finally burst forth I begin that agonizing process of deciding the absolute perfect moment to snip them and bring them inside.

And then, after all of that waiting and watching it’s just over…done. Because, unlike heaven, lilacs don’t last for an eternity. So, making my own lilac room spray seemed like the perfect way to enjoy their fragrance long after the blossoms have faded.

Here’s how to make it! Ingredients: Water, Vodka, Lilac fragrance oil. Directions: Fill spray bottle with 50/50 ratio of water to vodka. Add 12 drops of lilac oil. Give it a shake, spray and if the scent isn’t strong enough, simply add a few more drops of lilac oil.

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But, do not, I repeat do NOT, let them.

You’ve captured the fragrance of heaven in a bottle and you wouldn’t want to go and tarnish it now would you? 😉
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“The next day the large crowd that had come to t “The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, ‘Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!’ – John 12:9-19
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