Skip to Content

Vintage Traveler

Description

Liam's Nursery is an eclectic mix of found objects, antiques, and handmade items. I personally challenged myself to design and create many of the arts and crafts projects that would decorate the room. I crafted the "Liam" letters using paper mache letters, maps, and hodgepodge. I highlighted areas on the map that my husband and I had traveled to. I used the same collage technique on a handmade cardboard deer head that I cut out and handcrafted. I then challenged my Photoshop skills to make two graphic posters. The first incorporates the lyrics to our wedding first dance song "I Cross my Heart" by George Straight. The lyrics were very fitting for this occasion.  The second image is of Zoey, Liam's furry big sister.Lastly, I dusted off my sewing machine and put my amateur sewing skills to work to create the large, overstuffed, teal seahorse puff.  All other items were either gifted to us, found, or purchased at antique stores. One of my favorite finds were the two silk screen prints of a plane and ship, printed over vintage maps. These were found in a small nautical antique shop in Ohio.

Design Inspiration

I wanted the nursery to have a sense of adventure and whimsy. I want the room to grow with Liam so that he can add new items as he conquers new adventures and travels.

Decorating Style

Anything goes, new or old.

Project Details

Liam "Map Letters" How To:

  • 8" Paper Mache Letters
  • Maps (whole or cut pieces)
  • Hodgepodge Glue
  • 1 1/2" Ribbon
  • Hot Glue

Using a hodgepodge glue medium, adhere the maps tp the front side of your letters. Hot glue the ribbon along the edges to make a finished look. Add plastic hangers on the back.

Paper Mache Mapped Deer Head How To:

  • Cardboard
  • Exacto Knife/ Box Cutter
  • Scrap Paper (newspaper)
  • Tape
  • Maps
  • Hodgepodge Glue

Follow the direction from this blog: http://imperfectlyimaginable.blogspot.com/2013/08/diy-paper-mache-deer-head-for-around-20.html

Then cover with maps.

Seahorse Puff How To:

http://www.bhg.com/decorating/do-it-yourself/accents/make-a-pretty-pouf/#page=11

Favorite Items

I love it all!!!

Advice

Do not get stuck on a "Theme" or trying to match every item. Trust that it will all come together. Pick a few key colors and look for items (new or old) that fall in that scheme. Also don't get stuck on the fact that this is a baby nursery, you want the room to grow with him. Lastly, add in handmade items that are unique to only your room!