Thursday, May 24, 2012

DIY: Cabinet Makeover

While I LOVE being a home-owner, it seems that there is never a shortage of projects to complete!  I am always looking for new ways to update this or re-purpose that, and our kitchen is no exception.  Not exactly user-friendly and with slightly lopsided builders' cabinets, I decided to jazz them up a bit with some decoupage and a fun mod kitchen themed paper.  It brightened up the whole space and makes me actually want to use it- now I just need to learn how to cook!  We have family coming this weekend and I wanted to make it more cozy. 
Supplies:
Scrapbook Paper
Paper Cutter
Ruler/Pencil
Mod Podge
Sponge Brush
1. Choose your paper- make it fun!  2. Measure the area where your paper is going to go and use a paper cutter for straight edges.  3. Once you have the size you need, apply the Mod Podge to the back of the paper and position it where you want it on the surface (I chose matte-medium because I didn't want super-glossy cabinets, but you can use whichever suits your project).  When you have the paper placed, give it a little time to dry underneath and then apply a coat on top of the paper, let dry, and repeat.  You can put as many layers of decoupage medium as desired.
Tip: If you get some air bubbles in your paper while the Mod Podge is drying, take a small pin or thumbtack and lightly poke the bubble and pat to get the air out. 
4. Enjoy your new cabinets!  Remember that Mod Podge IS water-soluble so you may want to apply a sealant to the top once everything is completely dry.  But if not, this means that you can change the themes when you get tired of the pattern or if it gets icky.  Now I am on the hunt for the perfect knobs to go with my new funky kitchen!
As always, Mr. Jasper is on hand to help...
I hope you will try this technique on something in your home!  It's so easy and the results make for a personalized touch to your space- and a great conversation starter.  Have a great day!

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Food Truck Fridays!

One of my most favorite summer activities is the annual Food Truck Friday event that happens in Tower Grove park.  I love to see how each trucks' individuality, with their whirring generator and precisely placed mini-kitchen, brings flocks of us to enjoy their goodies!  My first adventure in food trucking was last year, and I was totally unprepared for the feast that lay ahead.  This time, with camp chairs slung over one shoulder, plenty of cash to spare, and a map of which food truck was where (pre-highlighted, I might add- hey, a girl has to be prepared), Stuart and I managed to try three different trucks.  Good thing this event happens more than once because we made note of which one to try next time...everything was so delish!
So clever!  The banana/nutella crepes are sensational.
Guerrilla Street Food...Asian Limeade is a MUST
Always save room for dessert-
especially peach cheesecake cupcakes (mmmm)

We are already planning for next time.  Maybe go in a group and divide and conquer...?