When I moved into our house 7 years ago, I knew it needed some TLC. Wallpaper and paint from 1992 were only going to cut it for so long with me but I had that pesky day job that kept getting in the way plus I had no clue what I wanted (still don’t). My fantasy would be for an Extreme Decorating Makeover but that’s not gonna happen.
Then I got a new sewing machine and knew I needed a female version of Burl’s “Man Cave” workshop in our basement – except I wanted a place with natural light and didn’t want to be relegated to the lower level. So – I sold off the ugly bedroom suite, stripped wallpaper, painted walls, ceiling and woodwork – then Burl did his magic with cabinets, counter tops and shelving and I finished the final piece – Roman shades – at 12:05 this morning.
I had vowed I would not go to bed until the project was done!
Here’s how the room looked 5 weeks ago. 
If you’re thinking “wow that room is really ugly” then you are being kinder than I was! Trust me, you should have seen the furniture – it was cheap stuff used to furnish a corporate apartment when Burl spent time in K.C. years ago.
Fast forward to today and here are the results. 
I have a whole wall of counter top with part of it the right height for sewing and the other just perfect for laying out patterns and cutting – and I have drawers and cabinets too. And shelves – soon to house baskets full of my yarn stash – for knitting and needlepoint.
And here are the shades! 
I bought the material at FM Stores (that place rocks for any decorating material you may need) and one of the employees told me to go to a website to learn how to make professional shades. She said it would take twice as long as following a Simplicity pattern but the results would be worth it – and she was right! Now that I know the drill, if/when I make another one I’ll have conquered the learning curve.
Now I just have to organize all my “stuff” and start planning Burl’s next project which I hope will be the main bathroom.
Let’s see – it took 7 years to do one room. At this rate, I doubt I’m alive – or even care – if the entire house gets redecorated but I’m gonna try.
With some time off to read, bike, travel………
your room rocks Ms. Anne. I love the yellow walls! The cabinets look great as well.
Looks great! Glad CBS Cabinets worked for you. We love that place!
Anne, this looks great–what a difference. See you Saturday.
It looks terrific. And the pictures don’t show just how bright the old aqua paint was – ugh! A great improvement and I love the work area. Nice job on the shades, too.