This built in couch on your porch would be great for conversation or even taking a nap. If you can sew these cushions, it would be easy for you to make yourself. There are also several places on the internet that will make the cusions any size you would need. If you are brave enough to tackle the cushions make sure you ony use Sunbrella fabric. I ordered Sunbrella cushions for my deck before Ike for several chairs, I did have the cushions inside when Ike hit but because of the way the doors were blown out and the waves came in everything was washed into the far corner of the living area. The cushions were there but very muddy and well, the only way to say it is yucky. I power washed all of them and they came out great. Since the storm I have ordered others out of the same fabric and have had them for three years. They look exacatly the same as the others and have not faded. I am not trying to be an advertisement here, but it pays to use the right fabric or it will fade and look terrible even after a year. These cushions because they are an easy rectangle, the covers could be made like a lare pillowcase with velcro on the end to close them. Washed in cool water they will look new for many years. One of the added bonuses of having these built-in benches is that there is storage for the cushions under the benches. Not only your cushions but it will be so easy for other winter storage and roomy enough for other things on your porch. I love this idea and if my deck was not so full of things right now I would have this done! If you have these built, then let me know so I can be jealous!

When I saw this I thought immediately of storage for a smaller guest bath. These baskets can be purchased at any hobby or gift store. It is very simple to mount them on the wall with the bottom of the basket against the wall. When attaching the baskets to the wall use screws with washers. If you are unable to mount on studs, then make sure you use molly bolts so the baskets can support the weight of whatever you will be storing in them. Great looking and so useful! Another use of these baskets would be a large sized as end table in a small room where there is very little space next to the bed. They would give you a table top and a shelf. Have a piece of glass cut for the top of the basket or a piece of wood. That would give you a sturdy surface. Enjoy making your home yours!

Several have asked about the wedding cakes in a previous column, it was Netti Cakes on FB.

Thank you for your comments. I have enjoyed your emails and appreciate you reading this article. Don’t forget to send me your decorating dilemmas. I will include your questions and answers in the column. Remember I am here to help.

Contact Cindy Clay Srader:
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