Hey sweet friends! So today is a bit of a different spin… a question and answer day at The Handmade Home.
Things have been so crazy lately, and I guess we just wanted to hear from you. You are our favorite part about what we do, and we just really like to hear what you have to say. If you have an oh-so-burning question you’ve been meaning to ask… like how on earth you pronounce Jamin’s name, why my child still isn’t potty trained (Really, I have no idea) where you can find a post, or just want to say hi… We want to hear from YOU!
Side note: We strive to answer emails and comments and sometimes we miss some. (See: Ashley. She’s working on it. Trying. Like, really hard + coping with lost email guilt.) So if you have a question, bring it! We promise to answer to the very best of our ability. ;}
So pull up a comfy seat, drop by whilst working, or bust out some coffee and stay a while… and let’s hear it!
Other side note: This post was unabashedly brought to you via inspiration through our sweet friend Emily at Jones Design Company. {Read: we didn’t come up with this + isn’t she fun?}
Alexis says
Haha! You’ve got me! How DO you pronounce Jamin’s name? Because it’s one way in my head, and now I must ask. What a fun idea- I love this. Can’t wait to see what everyone else wants to know!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Alexis! It’s Jay-men. Are you surprised? Think southern pronunciations. đ Lots of people think HAMIN or JAMMIN but it’s Jay-men. ;} Jamin. Like the last part of Benjamin. (Benjamin literally means son of Jamin.) Which is our third son’s first name. He thought he was being poetic, and I remind him this was my grandfather’s name. I hope that clears the air with my super long answer. what were you thinking in your head? I love that people want to know how to say it!
Jamin martineau says
Hi Ashley was wondering if you mind filling me in on a question I always ask people ivome across in the world with the same name as myself ..how did you come to learn or find the name Jamin. And did you say you named your third son Jamin..that’s awesome if I so.
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hi! So funny you have the same name! It’s a good solid name, but people are usually confused with the whole pronunciation and origin thing. We actually named our third son Benjamin – it literally means son of Jamin {as a side joke} but it’s also after my grandfather. So it won. We actually call him Malone, which is my maiden name. {Benjamin Malone Mills.} Thanks so much for stopping by!
Jamin martineau says
Hello there I was just reminiscing my name.i was google searching if they made a garbage pale kids card jammin Jamin flammin Jamin.. my name is spelled Jamin when I’m have a via text conversation with a person that I’ve never conversed words by mouth that could be heard by ear over the pronunciation of my name ..I always would give them Jamin pronounced (jaymin). I would understand if I spelled my name like jamen then I would hyphen as jaymen. My names come from the Bible and it comes from the book of numbers written once as Jamin he was the first father of the tribe cslled jaminites.not sure if one of thex12 tribes of the Israelite.i should look deeper to know the correct and fully knowledge.but now I wonder if the name Alexis is the name of my real first girlfriend iPad my heart was broken in high-school from.its all good life’ experience as far as how I see it now..but I have to wonder is your last name Long most likely a maiden name to a father named David.im sure if you ever se this extremely late response from a post 10 years ago you would have to respond ..
Eliz says
As a fellow Auburn grad, have you taken all three kids to a game at the same time, and if so what ages were they? War eagle!
ashley @ the handmade home says
War Eagle! We have only taken all three kids to the A-Day game this past spring and that was for poetic reasons. ;} (3,5,&7) They did not last past the first half. We’ve taken Aiden a few times, and when he first went, he was about 5 or 6. We still leave early. We don’t like to spend money on tickets and stand in the heat until they’re ready… they’re still not ready, but it’s fun to tailgate! How old are yours? So fun!
Jennifer B says
Hi! I have been looking everywhere for your Mills Fab 5 sign. Did you make that? Can you show me where to go for the tutorial? Thank you so much!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hi Jennifer! You can find the step by step here! I hope that helps!
Hayley says
I thought about asking something, but anything I have to say would be totally inappropriate! đ So, I’ll just leave it for girls night! Haha. Hope you guys had fun on your trip!
ashley @ the handmade home says
HAHA Yeah… thanks for saving that one. ;} We did – I sound like a total ingrate because it was great, but three kids at the beach are also exhausting. We were ready to get back, too. đ Kindof. #Iwanttogobackalready #hashtagsdontworkinposts
Emily says
I’m a fairly new reader, but I am in love with your site. I’m just learning to be a DIYer. The best part is your site has helped get my hubby on board with everything, yay! I owe you big time for that.
Anyway I saw the Handmade Walls book is coming out in print form along with 3 Art print books. When do they go up for sell? Can I pre-order them anywhere? I want to get my hubby Handmade Walls and myself the other 3. (:
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Emily! You are so sweet – I am so glad we can help! It’s why we do what we do. YES! They go up for sale in October and November;} And you can pre-order (we will have much more on that as we move along) HERE. Just in time for Christmas! THANK YOU so much for your support. It means the world to us!!!
Jude says
what’s your secret to getting over 17 000 people liking your Facebook page… apart from being just fabulous of course đ
ashley @ the handmade home says
HA! First of all, thank you for the fabulous comment + back at ya!;}
Secondly, can I just say this? I feel like Facebook is the biggest BS number out there when it comes to blogs. Yep. I totally just wrote that. I know that sounds awful, but it just is. I feel like we put so much emphasis on Facebook, and while it’s some indication, it’s really no reflection at ALL of how large a blog really is. There are so many bigger bloggers out there with smaller numbers on FB and smaller bloggers with bigger numbers. It can all be so confusing, and some of it depends on what genre you’re in, as well. We started our facebook group, then changed it because we had no idea what we were doing and did it wrong… lost people… started again… we were totally fumbling our way through this one. But honestly, now that I’ve rambled? Being around long enough. When we FIRST started out, we were a little etsy shop. So we had a few giveaways through the Nester, and that gave us a bit of a boost. But honestly, just TIME. And exposure. So even though we were (very slow & a year behind out of the gate) I like to think of it as a domino effect. It goes through growth spurts, and when it does, it grows faster with time. TIIIIIMMMME is on your side. Yes it is! Okay. I’m a nerd and probably just over-explained everything. But that’s my take. I hope that helps! Also, I get very little referrals from Facebook. And I need to improve on that. I could write an entire post. I am finito. ;}
Jude says
Thank you!! LOVING this Q&A session, the questions and your answers. xxx
ashley @ the handmade home says
Thanks so much! I hope it helps. ;}
Jessica Atkinson says
How do you do it with three kids? I just have two and I can’t even keep our dishes and laundry done much less take on DIY projects or room makeovers. Do you ever sleep?
ashley @ the handmade home says
Completely honest answer? We’re searching for that balance, just like everyone else. I cried on Sunday. Hard. Ugly cry. It’s kind of exhausting, sometimes. It can be really hard. I struggle with guilt. But we love what we do and we love our children and that’s a lot of our driving force.
I have HELP. I am spoiled, and I know this. I know everyone’s marriage works in different ways, but this has actually strengthened ours, and it’s an entirely different post, but Jamin is my partner. We have our moments where we want to punch each other in the throat, but we are 100% on both ends. He does the grocery shopping, I volunteer at the school. It’s a give and take. I have lots of days when I chase rabbits and get absolutely nothing done, and I have lots of days when I feel like a champion. But mostly rabbit days. ;} But again, we’re still searching for that balance, and we in no way have it all together.
We tend to lean toward the workaholic side, so there’s an issue with rest and getting enough. ;} I think it’s the stage we’re in right now. My parents live nearby, so they take the kids on lots of Fridays and that’s a LOT of help, as well. The laundry piles to the ceiling. To. The. Ceiling. And we schedule EVERYTHING. I’m working on fine tuning that schedule… like mom time at night when the kids are at home and THAT’s IT. No computer. Family time at certain hours, ONLY. Etc. Etc.
I hope that helps! Sometimes I feel like such a MESS! I could write a series on reasons why I stink! ;}
TJ says
Ashley-
I had read that your kids started school this past Monday and that you cried… my son (and only child) starts kindergarten this coming Monday and I’m sooooo trying to figure out how to handle this. Any suggestions?
Thanks-
TJ
ashley @ the handmade home says
I was a BASKET case when Aiden (our oldest) started Kindergarten. We met the teacher + the principal, and those were the only people we knew in this Magnet school that he got into at the last minute… I had to wear sunglasses to make it out of the school, so he wouldn’t see me crying. I cried on and off all day long after I wrote that post, and then cried when I read the comments when I realized I was not alone. You are not alone, if you cry.
Yesterday, I didn’t let Emerson see me cry, either. When the principal (we love her) saw me yesterday (and this is two years after my first) she asked if I was okay, and then started laughing because she knows me. I cried in Preschool, too. Not every year, but sometimes. It’s what I do. I’m trying to have this perspective because honestly, that’s all I CAN do.
Tips? Make it super special for them, whatever is special to them-maybe base it on their love language. Let them pick out their lunch box/back pack, or outfit… (Emerson loves this chance to pick) write them a note in their lunchbox, (neither one of them cares, but it means a lot to me) don’t let them see you cry, and PRAY. They can sense our hesitation. They’re like emotional barometers. ;}
Everyone’s situation is different, and this is just my take on it, but school is good for our kids. It has done wonders for Aiden and getting my little introvert out of his shell. And I look forward to seeing how Emerson grows. So while it’s hard for parents, it’s usually great for your kids. You’ve made your best decision on where to put them, so as hard as it is, embrace it.
Also, I know that not everyone’s work schedule is as flexible, but I really do try to volunteer once a week. This means a lot to both of my children. They want me to be there. So maybe help out a little whenever you can. This will change and vary with time for me, but I never got away with anything because my mom volunteered, and I remembered that. You know about the kids in their class, and you learn about the teacher. I consider Aiden’s teacher from last year one of my friends… and to be honest? You can’t tell me that school and everyone in it won’t know who you are and appreciate you and your child more, because they can use all the help they can get. It’s all about healthy boundaries, so do what works for you and what you’re comfortable with. It doesn’t have to be during school hours, either. Parties or special events. Just help out where you can, and you’ll be surprised at what a great coping mechanism it is! I actually ENJOY being up there, and being a part of it. It’s exhausting, and it’s another thing to balance. But I know they will only want me for so long, so I’m doing it while I can.
I hope that helps… again, it’s different for everyone, but this has been my experience! ;} Hang in there… It will be a growth process for both you and your child. I will keep you in my prayers!
TJ says
Oh my goodness, thank you!
We’re new to the area, know very few people (and none with kids even close to our son’s age), we have no family (both sets of parents have passed and we were both only children)… it’s a little tough right now so your advice is PRICELESS. Quite honestly I would have never even though about volunteering. We have a “Meet The Teacher” night this Thursday so I think I will ask about doing that then.
We have worked so hard to prepare him for school & riding the bus but no one prepared us for it. ; )
Thank you much for your kind words & advice-
TJ
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hang in there, sweet TJ! If you can get past this first bit, it only gets better from here! ;} Thinking of you.
Katherine Hunt says
Hi! In your opinion, do you feel that a mixture of modern/abstract art connects with shabby granny chic design? I love abstract paintings but seem to be drawn to shabby furniture. I am always afraid that my home looks like a cluster fudge of mess to other people. Thanks!
ashley @ the handmade home says
This may seem like a cop out answer, but if you know our philosophy, then you know that we believe that you should do what you love. I think there’s nothing more beautiful than a striking juxtaposition of the unexpected in the home. Also, if you want to mix the two, I believe it has nothing to do with style, so much as color. If your colors all work together, then it will tie in beautifully. I love modern art, and I’m ready to create more for our home. We have a bit of an eclectic farmhouse feel, so I’m making it work. Find ways to work in that black in your painting with an accessory on top of your furniture, or subtle ways that mix it in like pillows, or the color you paint your side table. I believe that with color, anything is possible and goes. ;} GO for It! And you will love your home even more.
Heidi says
Can you tell me the exterior dimensions of the day bed you made for your daughter? I think we’re going to make one for our little girl and didn’t see them on that post. She has a little alcove in her room that the bed might tuck into, but if I recall correctly I only saw the dimensions for the mattress, not the actual outside bed dimensions.
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Heidi! I just measured. 45 D 78 W 47 H {the highest points}. Let me know if you decide to make it. We’d love to see!
Kyla F says
Hi Ashley!
First I must thank you for creating this blog. I discovered it around Christmas in 2011 and it has since become my favorite blog, even though I am 21 and do not yet have a home of my own. I am a New Hampshire girl who dreams of living in the South someday and being a mom with paint-covered clothes too, so I feel like I have been led to your blog for a reason because I felt instantly like I was doing life with a good friend once I started reading. Last year I had the blessing of speaking with you on the phone about my desire to be an interior designer, and I have since made the decision to study Graphic Design in a BFA program at a local art school. My first class is next Monday (yay!) and I would love to know what your advice and tips are for me, as I dream of someday working from home and having a blog, kind of taking my design education in my own direction after graduation. Specific questions that I have are: What would you tell your 21 year old self if you could talk to her? What is the best way to approach an assignment when you are struggling for ideas? Also, what are your general college student tips for somebody who is going to be in creative-based classes rather than sciencey-textbook classes? I think you are the perfect person to ask because you have become one of my role models and I truly appreciate how ‘real’ you are with your readers, it makes me feel like we are friends. Thank you so much for your time, seriously! đ
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Kyla! YES! I am so glad to know that is you, because I THOUGHT that was you, but wasn’t sure! ;} I love this. Congratulations and way to go! Keep me posted on everything – I can’t wait to see where you go with this! Thank you for your sweet, encouraging words. As far as questions… hmmm wow. Where to begin?
First things first, you’re starting early and that’s amazing. Sometimes, I kick myself for not starting earlier. But it took me a while to figure out what I wanted to do, and that was all a part of the journey and my own growth. (for lack of a better generic phrase ;)) At least I had my major under my belt. So if you change direction even now, you will always use that major. Always. People often argue that “art, or design degrees are useless” I use it daily. People will always need design. In one form or another. And for argument’s sake, even if I wasn’t doing this, I would still be freelancing or working at a firm in some form of fashion. So you have chosen a valuable major. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. That being said, you’re still early in the game. If you change your mind, that’s okay, too. You never know what life will bring your way, and I never saw myself doing this, in this capacity. So I hope that helps. In short, remember not to be so hard on yourself. Which brings me to…
What would you tell your 21 year old self if you could talk to her?
I’m really high strung. I always will be. So I would tell myself to chillax, take my time, and enjoy. You can never be here again. Embrace it. Have fun while you can, because this too will pass, and while I believe in embracing every era of life, You. Will. Miss. This. One. Every now and then, just a little. ;} Don’t be so anxious, and enjoy it while you can. {I’m a perfectionist, so I’m still trying to learn this one. STILL.} Not that you aren’t enjoying it and not that you are a perfectionist… this is just to me. The funny part? I still tell myself this.
What is the best way to approach an assignment when you are struggling for ideas?
My best friend is my mechanical pencil and my sketchbook. I am a perfectionist, so I have to resist the urge to push through. Still, to this day. But if you’re struggling? Step away for a bit. If you’ve tried sketching, tried looking at things for inspiration, just walk away. Bounce your ideas off your friends. Go do something with a friend. Go to lunch. Go outside and take a walk. And then come back to it after a break. Life is the ultimate inspiration, and my children, honestly, are mine. It’s just a different phase of life, but it’s still true.
Also, what are your general college student tips for somebody who is going to be in creative-based classes rather than sciencey-textbook classes? I think you are the perfect person to ask because you have become one of my role models and I truly appreciate how ârealâ you are with your readers, it makes me feel like we are friends. Thank you so much for your time, seriously!
Awe, thanks Kyla. Girl, we are friends! ;} Your major will be harder than your roomies or your closest friends in this aspect: because they will go to the library and study, and you will still be at it until the wee hours of the morning. They will go to the lake (See Jamin. See me: still bitter) and you will sit inside and work for hours. They will have finals, and You will work your butt off and pull a succession of all nighters and people will think you draw for fun. But the pay off is major. There is strength in numbers, and I still stay in touch with my graphic design friends. There is a camaraderie there that will last well into your professional years. I am in an entirely different section now, but we still touch base, and while they probably think I’m a little crazy, it’s still great to have those connections.
You will have one professor who will be your absolute favorite. You will miss her dearly. Soak up everything you can. ;}
There will always be the jerk professor. They may love you. They may hate you. You will want to die. Learn from them, realize that they have personal biased issues. Move on and don’t let it define you.
Enjoy it. If I could go back to a design class now, I would in an instant. There were moments where I hated it and loathed my choice, and now… Honestly? I wish my biggest issue was finishing up that assigned, not-real-life project. ;} Just to go back and sit in class and participate.. SO MUCH FUN! Love it while you can. You won’t regret it!
If I could give you one piece of advice? Treat your major, while you’re there, like you’re going to be using it for what it is. And nothing more. Think in that way. And you’ll be amazed at how well it will serve you later, no matter what direction you take.
I hope these help. Thank you so much for reading, and stay in touch! I can’t wait to see what you do!
Kyla F says
This means the world to me Ashley. Thank you so much for taking the time to encourage me and give me this helpful advice! I will definitely keep you updated đ
Alex says
I really liked your laundry room redo post. What color paint did you use on the walls in there?
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Alex! We used Benjamin Moore’s Wedgewood Grey, paired with Chantilly lace. And you can read all about our paint colors here, too!
Alex says
Thanks Ashley. I knew there was a reason I liked it–I have the same color in my kitchen. Now perhaps it will be in my laundry room too! I might as well use what I have on hand. Love the blog and your hilarious accounts of life/parenting/decorating.
Alicia Kahle says
Are you still planning on giving a tutorial on how to make the frame for Emerson funny girl poster
ashley @ the handmade home says
Ha! Absolutely! Check back next week. I guess we kind of left that one out, didn’t we? Thank you for the reminder.
Alicia Kahle says
Thanks! I’ve been holding onto my poster! I love your blog, it has definitely inspired me to be selective of what I bring in my home. After all, you should only put what u love in your home! Thanks for continuing to inspire me đ
ashley @ the handmade home says
Awe so glad! We’re still whittling it down! ;}
Tanya says
How do you keep a good balance between blogging and family? Always a challenge for me and I would love to know how you guys do it!
xo, Tanya
twelveOeight
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey girl! I kind of answered that in Jessica’s question above… but I guess you could say we are struggling just like everyone else! Working from home is a blessing and a curse. I’m with our kids all the time but the workload never ever ever goes away… as I know you know. People handle it differently, but I do it a bit like this: I work though out the day and play with my kids throughout the day. I take breaks like feeding a meter, so it’s good to work a little and play a little. That way they learn how to entertain themselves for a bit, and I learn not to get sucked in for hours on end. ;} Jamin and I both give 100% and we both know when it’s time to turn it off. I have a lot of help with him. We schedule, so that helps. The laundry piles. Sometimes we’re slow with things like paperwork and taxes. I wrote a little on that above, so check it out! ;} I hope this helps!
Bethany says
Hi there! First let me say that I LOVE your blog! I don’t follow many, but yours is one I read almost daily. đ I have a project question… and if you have answered it somewhere before I’d love it if you could point me to it. When covering cardboard with fabric, what is the best way to seal it so that the fabric edges don’t start to unravel? I recently made a birthday banner adhering fabric to cardboard flags using iron on adhesive and would love for it to last for years to come! Thank you so much for taking the time to read and answer all our comments! I appreciate it so much!
P.S. Thanks for clarifying your husband’s name pronunciation… I think I may have had one of the strangest pronunciations in my head – Ya-min (Ya as in fa la la… WHOOPS!) đ Thanks again!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Bethany! Well, I guess it depends on the fabric, but I would probably just hotglue it. ;} Or fabric glue. You could even seal the edges with the glue as you go. Or use hem tape, if you have enough edge to spare without being seen, and then glue. I hope that helps! I would try it on a test piece first. ;}
Mindy says
I am new on the bloggy block. (My cute little baby blog is only 1 week old!) How did you get people to actually read your blog way back when?
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey girl. Just typed out an entire answer and it went away. BOOOOO! First of all, congratulations! I am so excited for you.
When I first started, I was commenting a lot on other blogs. I think maybe that’s blogger 101 if I could write a book about it. ;} With the time constraints of what I’m juggling now, that gets a little harder, and I STILL need to do that more. I say this not because I did it so people would notice me, but to connect with others. It made them not only aware of my existence, but I learned from visiting those blogs and observing. I reached out to bloggers that were in my genre and of my size (or bloggy age) and we worked together on things. I think that collaborating with other bloggers (even if you just find them by surfing the internet and coming up with a list of people you like and think have similar goals, etc.) is an invaluable process. It can be an entirely different avenue of work in itself. Something I’m still fine-tuning. So that, collaboration with others, and the social media gamut. It’s a necessary evil but does help ;} I hope that helps some of your question! It’s a very multifaceted topic, for sure! Probably one that warrants an entire series. ;} If you build it, they WILL come. They may not ever leave a comment but they will come. ;D That being said, I can’t wait to check yours out! I hope this helps.
Mindy says
Thank you, thank you, thank you for the awesome advice! I will definitely start commenting. I am a notorious lurker. I love reading blogs, but rarely comment. I have “had lunch”with you almost every day for a year and a half, and I’ve commented like twice!
Alicia Kahle says
Have you considered doing a bathroom redo series?
ashley @ the handmade home says
HAHA Yes. When I redo our bathrooms. ;} Is that something you would like to see? Ours or others or revamps or just inspiring spaces? I always want to know what people would like to see more of!
Alicia Kahle says
Yes I would love to see your redos of your bathroom And inspiring spaces. We have extremely small bathrooms and two kids under the age of three so storage is a must. plus any DIY ideas that are unique and inspiring! đ
emily says
I love Q & A. I love asking questions and I love answering questions. Hope you have fun!
So, my questions for you:
1. how many siblings do you have?
2. favorite city you’ve been to?
3. what do you collect?
4. what is one thing you do just for you?
I heart you.
ashley @ the handmade home says
HAHA you are so good at this! I’m all, uh, I like blue and butterflies. And cupcakes and unicorns. The end. ;}
1. I have two siblings, and I am the oldest. A brother and a sister.
2. New York. Hands down. I don’t want to live there, but the electricity makes it just such a fun place to visit-You feel like you can be discovered for Broadway at any moment and live your life on the stage. Or go shopping in china Town and Macy’s. Whatever works. I feel like that’s a totally generic answer, but you can have a different experience each time you go. It’s the antithesis of where we live. And the people? Really nice! Jamin has never been, and I have been I think about four times now. I need to take him with me!
3. Children. I collect children. And shoes. Just kidding. I’m not much of a collector but have visions of vintage china, old books And old spools. Classics that would never get old. The little kind with old colorful fabric. Oh, and garbage pail kid cards. Those things are amazing. Kidding again. But totally would.
4. Reading anything fiction. It’s my escapism and I’ve always been a book worm. When I have the time – like maybe once a quarter- I will delve into a good book occasionally and no one will see me for three days because once I start, I’m Sabastian from The Never Ending Story. I have what people like to call a little bit of an OCD problem. I’m all, dont-speak-to-me-I-must-see-what-happens-next, throwing popcorn at the kids mouths while I finish it up at three in the AM. Which is why it doesn’t happen often. ;}
Anyone else want to answer these? I’d love to hear yours!
Laura J says
Ashley and Jamin –
First, thanks for introducing me to The Well. I’ve gone there a couple times on trips to Nashville and I have to say I love that place for so many reasons.
I’m a youth minister (high-five to the Mills family for your ministry) and we’re tossing around the idea of doing online registration and payments for camps/retreats. Can you tell me how you go about taking orders/receiving payment in your shop? I’m the least bit knowledgeable concerning this stuff so I’m not even really sure how to ask questions/what to ask/go about figuring this out. Also, in your youth ministry connections, do you know of any churches who do collect payments and do registrations online that I could connect with to learn more?
Thanks!
Laura
P.S. I just painted my laundry room and went with Chantilly Lace for the trim and doors…awesome suggestion…lovin’ it! Was so nice to just go with a color and not waste time looking over samples.
jamin says
Laura,
We use a combination of woo commerce and e-junkie on our site.
Paypal has a non profit option that might work best for you, it’s simple and easy. You can also google the phrase “non profit credit card processing” and list of options will pop up. I don’t use it and don’t really know anyone that is that brags on their system all that much. Sorry I can’t point you in a direction for that. I would suggest starting with paypal and testing the waters with it and then maybe switching to something else down the road.
I hope that helps some.
Laura J says
Yes, this is very helpful. Thank you so much!
Maribeth says
Who makes the red/yellow multi-colored curtain fabric in the kids’ playroom? I am redoing my staid and boring guest bedroom to be fun and lively and would love to use that fabric or something with the same punchy feel. Thanks in advance for your answer! I love your blog!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Maribeth! I am totally drawing a blank right now, and it will come to me. But for now, try Ana Maria Horner. I think that fabric may be out of print, but try searching on etsy. she may have the right vibe. ;} Let me know if you find something good!
Ash says
Hey Ash, it’s Ash! AshMasterFlash, that is… đ
I read your blog not for the DIY’s (although that’s a BIG part of it, I promise!) but because of your hilarious style of writing. You have a way of expressing yourself that is completely unique. Did you always love writing? I assume you liked to journal or had some other sort of word-print-vomit-outlet as a child. HA.
Thanks for being awesome!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Haha! Hey Ash! Thank you so much for your kind words! ;} If you come to see me because I’m a total train wreck, that’s okay too. I was always a writer, I guess. As in, all my life it’s just what I’ve done… A part of my nature. People tell you they like it, or they think you’re good at it. I’ve never considered myself supafab, it’s just who I am. That’s why I love this so much. It combines my loves (and Jamin’s love-the DIY/Business part). We’re like this marriage of craziness. ;} I guess you could say I stumbled into my dream job. We are very blessed.
Ps. You should see my junior high angst journals that I recovered recently. Practically oozing with not-so-juicy stuff.
Nikki says
Can you pretty please travel to Jacksonville and come help me figure out the accessories in my new house? (hey, you said I could ask ANYTHING!) đ I have all the big anchor pieces, I just can’t commit to the details like throw pillows for the couch and cute decorating stuff.
ashley @ the handmade home says
Awe, that’s the fun part, Nikki! How I wish I could! ;} Thinking of starting e services again soon…
Nikki says
It IS the fun part and I’m excited to tackle it…I’m just stuck with indecision and don’t know what direction to run in. Maybe you CAN help (without a trip to Jacksonville) – dark grey/charcoal sectional…..what colors throw pillows (I have some large white linen ones I plan on keeping) to brighten things up…just not sure what other colors/patterns I want to bring in…I know I don’t want it to be matchy.
Hmm..e-services would be AH-MAZING!! Sometimes you (read: I) just need a sounding board…lol.
Stacy says
I’m wondering how you pick paint colors for kids’ rooms. Do you find the textiles for the room and then do the paint? Or do you think having a basic white or neutral color on the walls works well since then anything goes as far as the bedding, etc?
And yes, I’m in the beginning of re-doing 3 bedrooms for a 14 yo girl, 11 yo girl and a 7 yo boy.
Thank you so much for any guidance!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Stacy! When it comes to kids rooms, I usually do fabrics I love first, and then work around it with the paint. That way I’m not limited the other way around. It mean, each process is a little different, but I do find working with fabrics easier if you wait and THEN do the paint. ;} I hope that helps! That’s awesome!
Donna says
I know I have said this before but I totally feel like we are best friends (you are my virtual bff!), I love your blog so much, love your style and I love how you keep it real. Thank you for that!
This q & a day is the best – so fun reading all of the questions and answers today. I have a couple of questions – First: I love “word art” for the lack of a better term, you know the wood planks with words on them, or cut out letters like you have in your kitchen. When is it too much? Is it ok to have word art in every room? Is it too much if I have more than one word art item in the same room? Is there such a thing as too much of a good thing? Does any of that make sense? đ
And a question regarding Chantilly Lace – I think I read you painted your living room with that color. I am loving that beautiful hue of white as well, but I don’t know what color to paint my trim and my ceiling if the walls are Chantilly Lace.
Thanks a bunch!
Donna
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Donna!
So good to hear from you, virtual BFF! I am so glad you like this post! We will have to do them every now and then if people enjoy it! ;}
I think it’s all about balance in your home. Maybe some signs mixed with some letters… mixed with something else… But most importantly (you know what I’m going to say) if you love it, then it doesn’t matter. Especially if your word art has messages you love that make you happy! I have a quote or something of some significance in some form or fashion in nearly every space! So I say go for it!
We did Chantilly Lace in our living room, and we went ahead and did the trim + mantel as well. You may want to wait on the ceiling… our white was close enough, and I’ve found that the way light tends to bounce off the ceiling, unless it’s beige, most whites will blend well with chantilly on the ceiling. Test out one wall and see how it makes you feel!
I hope this helps. Can’t wait to see what you do!
Kelli says
Ashley, I love your blog!! I love how real you keep things. You have no idea how much I was dying when I read your post about being terrified when your hubs leaves. SAME. I read some of it to my husband and he couldn’t stop laughing because it is SO spot on for how I am too (glad to know I’m not along in the ridic department ). I need a keep it real moment.
I really, really want to have 3 kids someday (working on #1 right now ;)) but so many people think I am crazy. How do you feel about having three? I doubt you’ll say if you wish you had less lol, but I really want to know! Is 2 way more manageable? Is the three totally worth it?? And fill me in on middle child syndrome. Do you see that?! Do you work extra hard for that middle one so they don’t feel that way? I know it’s all matter of opinion, but I usually ask when I hear people ARE in a family of 3 sibs. Never have gotten it from the parental side though. Thanks!! <3
Kelli
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Kelli! I am so glad I am not alone in the paranoia department. ;} I am actually surprised at the number of parenting/family questions today… I figured it was all DIY stuff – SO happy to see these!
Let me just say – I don’t know if you said that about the siblings thing because you saw my comment above or not, but I am from a family of 3 siblings, and we (as mentioned 5,555 times) have three children. We are the annoying people who only planned for one of our offspring. We realize what a total blessing this is, even though at the time, my initial response was total shock. You can’t do anything about God’s plan, and I honestly prefer it that way. ;} Aiden was a surprise after two years of marriage (I am reeling, and may remove this comment when he’s old enough to find it) As was Malone (Emerson was 9 months old when I found out). I slammed the test down on the kitchen counter after thinking I had the flu, and began the scary hysterical laugh/cry while Jamin proclaimed that he “didn’t want to know until after Thanksgiving” he was doing the “lalala!” move with his ears covered, singing into the air with total denial. Meanwhile, Emerson and Aiden were racing around the kitchen, eating dog food.
I can’t make this stuff up. TMI?
So everyone’s story is different. Let me also say, that our family dynamic is completely different from my childhood one. My childhood family is the opposite of my children. I was first, my brother second, my sister the youngest. Here, we have Aiden first, Emerson in the middle and Malone third. However, one similarity that stands true blue, is the middle child thing. I have limited knowledge on all of this and am just going by my own experiences but I can tell you right now, I try my very hardest to avoid stereotypes. Emerson is a middle child to a T. I don’t know if it’s emphasized because she is the only female, as was my brother, but I remember my brother being the exact same way. My mother could write a book.
We laugh now. Extra time with Emerson comes naturally though, because she is the only girl. I think in a way, she feels special because of it. And I remember growing up, my brother was the golden child. My parents had no favorites but to me (the oldest people pleaser who felt as though she never measured up) everyone was a favorite but me. And that was just me. HA!
While I was shocked with number three, I hadn’t totally made my mind up about it yet, and now I can’t picture life without him. He is worth every extra moment. All three of them are. They’re beautiful gifts and though we have our moments… OH do we have our moments… It is what it is and we adore it. Jamin still occasionally reminds me that he only wanted one. Liar.
I read an article recently that three is the hardest number. I have no idea if this is true or not. They said it was because once you have four, you have no option but to let go, and at two, you still have control so three is trying to work with it, but always feeling overwhelmed because you still haven’t learned to let go yet??? Who knows. I am a perfectionist, so I can actually relate to this. I’m sure it’s something that has been debated on baby websites everywhere for years. What I do know, is that when they were babies, two to three was no big deal because Emerson was such a nightmare child. She came out screaming. (Reflux + colic + spitting up blood = 1 year of no sleep) I rolled with it. And now that they’re older, I see a big difference between my friends with two, and well… us. We’re actually in the minority and it’s crazy. (Mothers of 4+ everywhere are rolling their eyes, but I don’t know many. I admire the heck out of them.) There’s a monetary jump, and time jump there. Definitely something to consider, but it is what it is.
My point? These are only my experiences, it’s different for everyone… but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Brookje says
Love your blog!! We have a winter home in Florida–we decorated it 9 years ago–terracotta and soft golden colors. It is becoming dated–we have an accent wall that is terracotta and I would like to keep that–but I really want to get rid of the gold. What color would you suggest? I love bold colors and I’m not afraid to try something that is “Out There”. I am thinking about a shade of blue–but would love your opinion. If you have another color, please let me know. If you agree with the blues, what shade? Thank you! Thank you!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey girl! Um, it’s almost impossible for me to pick without seeing your space, but if you want a jumping off point? Maybe Evening Sky or Summer Nights by Benjamin Moore. I think dark would be really fun for those walls. Just something to play with and consider! I hope that helps! ;}
Leah Romin says
Hi Ashley!
You are so amazing to take the time to answer everyone’s comments…but it totally fits your style to a “T”…you are always so real about your life and home and I know that I really appreciate that so much đ I just had to tell you that seriously, your blog is my favorite đ Your style is what I am always most drawn to and love the way you have fun with color and some fun pieces throughout. I have done a few of your diy’s and can’t wait to do more! Am I right in reading that Jamin is a youth pastor? If so, is that his main profession? My husband is a youth pastor at our Church and I think we have the same anniversary year too!…you guys have been married 11 years, right? đ Thank you for all your inspiration and work Ashley…you are the best!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Awe thank you so much, Leah! Yes, Jamin is a youth pastor. This is his main profession. ;} We have been at the same church now for 11 years this coming February, and we have been married 11 years! Crazy! When is your anniversary? Thank you so much for your sweet sweet comments! They mean the WORLD! ;}
Katie says
#1. Love your site! You’ve inspired me to do so many DIY projects!!
#2. Can I send you a pic of a flooring problem I have and get your thoughts? Long story short, I have parquet floors (the wood tile kind, not the pretty herringbone kind) and had a flood. Multiple tiles in my hallway had to be removed. What do I replace it with (assume: old tiles will not work and going with another type of floor).
Thanks!
Katie
(–B’ham, AL and fellow Auburn grad!)
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey girl! Thanks so much for your sweet comments. I am so glad! I would love to look at your floors, but I am unable to take on any consultations right now. Maybe send it my way and if I have a chance I can look! Thanks so much!
Katie says
Totally understand! I’ll send a pic and whenever you have a couple of minutes, you can check it out. I just need a starting place of an idea of what might work! Thanks SO MUCH!!!
Leah Romin says
Hey Ashley đ
That’s so great that you have been at the same church serving for 11 years! My husband has been a youth pastor for 13 years now (our first Church together in WI and now our current Church in ABQ, NM). He loves it and it’s been a blessing that I am able to be home taking care of our 5 little boys đ Our anniversary is October 19!…it will be 11 years for us too đ So wish we lived in the same area! đ
carolina says
Hi there!
Thanks for your blog – I love it! I found it maybe a month ago (???) and love checking it. I figured this post was perfect for my question today since I’ve been wanting to ask you but never took the time to email or anything (I have 3 kids as well… the youngest is 3… you know what I mean?).
Anyway, my question is about YOUR COUCH!! The linen tufted one. I love it and have been thinking of buying the same one (copycat!). How do you like it now that you’ve owned it for awhile? Has it held up well? We would also scotchguard ours, but I’m also concerned with how “sturdy” the linen fabric is? Does it cause the cushions to sag or does it all still seem pretty firm?
Thanks again! Love your style – writing and design! đ
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey carolina! We love love love love love love love love love love love our sofa. It’s one of my most favorite things in our house. dependable. Can’t see stains. etc. It’s been peed on, bled on, drooled on, and I have yet to have a big spill because I keep food out of the living room… and no voms (yet-fingers crossed) but the cushions look amazing, they’ve held up fabulously-you can even sleep on it. Seriously – couldn’t recommend something more! Stains come up easily and it’s in great shape! It loses a few feathers every now and then as the cushions are down-filled but that’s just par for the course. I hope that helps! We love this sofa.
carolina says
You convinced me! I’m buying it! Just as soon as we finish tiling our master shower. đ I wish we could fit the big sized one in our space (the same size you have) but I think we’re gonna have to go with the smaller one. I think it will still be beautiful and I’ll send you a picture someday! Thanks again! đ
ashley @ the handmade home says
Let me know how it goes! We love Andella Home – They are the sweetest people! ;}
Christie says
Hello! Hope this isn’t too late… I dearly love your blog, so inspiring. Two categories of questions:
I am mostly a pianist, trained classically, and love to write music. However, since being married, I’ve realized how much I love home design/decor. (and probably always have) It just wasn’t really encouraged or even recognized when growing up. There’s been so much time put into learning music, I don’t want to just throw that to the wind. But this seems so much more fun and practical as I am now a wife and mom to four little girls. But I still love music, agh! AND, while I think I’m fairly creative, I am not so gifted in making things with my hands. Seriously DIY challenged! Enter question 2,
For people who want to start DIY stuff, what would be your top five suggestions? I know, terribly vague. Start with painting? Fabric, pillows, curtains? How in the world do I know which room to tackle first?
Thank you so much!! And blessings to you, your family, and your blog! = )
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey thanks so much! I don’t see why you can’t do both! ;} I recommend checking out this post here. It will probably give you a good jumpstart. ;} Start by collecting what you love – you never know what will inspire an entire space! I hope this little post helps get your juices flowing!
Beth says
Hey Ashley, I met you at “The Great Purge Yard Sale” in May. I’m the one that helped grab and cover things, a little bit, when it started raining! It’s funny that you mentioned Jamin’s name pronunciation….. I actually had wanted to ask you that day, but felt silly, so I waited until you said it in conversation, to find out! đ I love the items I purchased, especially the pale aqua (aka “Tiffany Box Blue”) & gold striped throw pillows. They look great with my daughters paisley comforter with a similar color palette. She recently graduated from Auburn with an Art History degree! Any suggestions or ideas for gainful employment with that one?!? Not really, just kidding!
Seriously, I don’t have a question. I just wanted to encourage you to keep up the good work with spending as much time as possible with your children now, because these days will fly by and you will look back and wonder what happened to them! You should not feel guilty! They will always remember and appreciate you as a “stay-at-home Mom”, even though you worked very hard, because you valued your time with them.
I just got your e-book, but I still want the printed ones, autographed, of course! I hope I can get the nerve to try some of your art ideas for my “in progress, beachy, empty-nest, Mom-cave”!
Blessings to you and your precious, sweet family!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Awe hey Beth! Thanks so much for saying hello again and telling me who you are! It’s so hard for me to keep up with names on here but I definitely remember faces and love hearing from you. I can’t wait to see what you do with those projects. Thank you so very much for your sweet words! Have an amazing week
Ashley says
I love your blog! It is so inspiring even if I can’t find the time to do any of the projects! đ (One day…)
This might be too late but I have a quick question about your paint preferences. You use Benjamin Moore’s paint a lot. Is there a particular reason you prefer it over other brands?
Thanks!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Yep! TOO LATE. No more answers from me! ;} Just kidding. Thanks so much for stopping by! Honestly? I have a couple of swatch decks from them, and sometimes I use their paint, and sometimes I don’t. I love their colors, and sometimes I just have them mixed up at The Home Depot because it’s closer to our house. Paint enthusiast snobs everywhere are passing out on their keyboards, but that’s what we do. I’ve invested in the paint swatch books (best investment ever to have on hand if you do this a lot for yourself + others) because it makes it super easy to choose colors when I need to, from a deck in the light of my own home. They have so many more options and it’s just easier that way. BM paints are thicker, but I like to save a little cash and have it mixed at the local store, too. ;} I hope that helps!
Tashia says
We have two different sized windows in our master bedroom. One is small and the other is larger. We would really like to use curtians to dress them up. How do you suggest we decorate them with curtains. Should we use long ones on both?
ashley @ the handmade home says
Hey Tashia! I would probably use long ones on both. ;} Its a hard call without being able to see it, but long on both is always a good start!
Jessica says
I’d love to see some of your favorite questions and the answers to them!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Sure, Jessica! That sounds like a great idea! ;}