DIY: A Sea Catcher

While camping in Mendocino over the past weekend (more on that adventure later), we collected driftwood and dried seaweed to add to our seaside mementos.  The foraged shore finds found themselves in box where I recently threw in some vintage buttons, chandelier crystals and a mix of feathers.  Together they all looked so pretty that the kids and I decided to make something with them, and voila, the "Sea Catcher" was born.  Using twine, leather cording, a little glue and my drill we simply arranged the collection and attached a few of our other favorites.  Take a look:

This Sea Catcher was made of Maine driftwood, dried Mendocino seaweed, vintage buttons and glass crystals from a chandelier we used to own.  All remind us of beautiful places and happy times.  Can't wait to see how our next one comes together...

So Pinteresting: Branches In Interior Spaces

Using branches to decorate your home is suitable at any time of year, but springtime is by far the best season for it.  Dogwood, cherry, quince and forsythia branches can be found at your local florist,  in flower markets or in your own backyard.  Their dramatic silhouettes and delicate sprouting buds make them a visual delight indoors.  Be sure to cut and pound the bottoms of the stems before placing them in your containers, so that the woody stems absorb water better.   If you opt for dry branches, such as manzanita or driftwood, simply put them in a favorite vase or hang them on a wall or from the ceiling.   Take a look at some of my favorite 'branching' images:

My favorite image is the last one.  I love how dramatic the red maple tree looks in the entryway.

Which is your favorite?

images:

1./2./3./4./5./6./7.