Customer Reviews

Flea Market Style

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This book has several creative, clever and practical decorating ideas and projects that I have not seen in any other book. For me the decorating ideas have to have a function; it is not enough to just look nice and take up space. I hope the authors write a sequel with even more ideas!

The authors go beyond just dragging home shabby chic pieces from the flea market. They include projects to expand the usefulness of odd pieces. The end results are quite handsome and of course, unique.
One project attaches tin ceiling tiles to a plywood frame to make a stunning storage box or plant holder. Another project transforms a mirror frame with fabric and crisscrossed ribbons to create a lovely bulletin board. They show how to line an old painted cupboard or armoire with fabric without permanently altering the interior.
The large photos throughout show the pieces fitted into a room and artfully accessorized. Inspiring.
Some projects require some sewing or carpentry ability, but others require little skill.

I actually liked this book so much I ordered "Garden Style" by the same authors, only to discover almost the exact same book. I kid you not, I counted at least 12 projects/photos that are EXACTLY THE SAME in both books. Since the books are only 130 pages long to begin with, I felt cheated. When I buy 2 different titles, I expect 2 different books. My advice: buy one or the other, not both.

While the book is full of nice pictures, the actual useful projects are rather scant to my liking. I did have one item project that I am interested in pursuing, but overall, the overcrowded pictures take away from the item for the project. The instructions are a bit wanting, leaving gaps in the process, ex. the making of the teacup-based lamp where the actually steps and pictures for the fitting of the hardware is abscent.