DIY Urchin Topiary + Formal Living Room Update July 10, 2014 | I love using urchins in decor, and as trendy as they may be, I think that they are sticking around for a bit. Today I’m putting a fun spin on the classic starburst stand alone and showcasing it as a topiary. I’m also showing you how to DIY one yourself sans the Styrofoam center. As part of adding some fun punches of modern decor in my “granny chic” combo formal living/dining room, I decided to add some much needed height between my beloved thrifted chintz chairs using a giant urchin. I really didn’t want to use Styrofoam, so I found these great wooden balls from Hobby Lobby (by all of the unfinished wooden crafts) and was able to use the drill to create perfect holes in which mini dowel rods fit creating the starburst silhouette. The project was VERY easy, albeit a little time consuming, but I love my little creation styled in it’s home. I think that I will eventually make one other so that I have a pair to style on the dining room sideboard. So all together (with the pot and moss that I found on clearance at Michaels) this little guy cost UNDER $10 to make, yet is a huge splash of interest in the room. See below for the how to…. Supplies: -Small wooden ball (based on what size urchin you want) -Pre-packed mini dowel rods (I bought the smallest diameter and they came in packs of 30 at Hobby Lobby) -Drill -Gold Spray Paint (I always use Design Master) Instructions: -Drill holes into ball (I followed the circumference wood rings, but also added a few sporadic holes for interest) -Break dowel rods into various lengths to add dimension -Insert dowel rods into holes (it will be a tight fit, so no need for glue) -Spray Paint -Prepare pot with floral foam and moss covering -Insert final dowel rod as the “Stand” and then insert into floral foam And finally here’s the vision as to where this room is going. I honestly do love the chintz chairs just like they are, but admittedly they are hard to work around, especially in this open space. The floor needs warming up, and the chairs need richer pillows. Also (and even though there are plantations already installed) contemplating drapes on each side…hung on 9” wide individual (preferable lucite) rods? Thoughts on drapes and plantations? If you’re reading this, I am off to Haven. Please follow along on Instagram as I hope to introduce you to lots and lots of my fav gals in the blog-o-sphere. Also, please pray that I make the through the whole thing without leaving and speeding home to be with my little one. Will be the first time leaving her for more than one night. Oh My….lots of prayers. Love you guys. Mean it. xo
Beth of designPOST Interiors says July 10, 2014 at 12:19 PM I like drapes even with plantations and your whole vision looks good to me! I want to see more of that console and trunk (nosy!). Have a blast this weekend! Don't miss out on the fun worry about that baby girl- she will be practicing working her daddy. She'll need those skills later in high school when she is trying to get his credit card 🙂
Crystal T says July 10, 2014 at 12:45 PM I love the addition of the drapes and absolutely adore the lumbar pillows! The pillows are exactly what I have been searching for to add to my two side chairs. Where did you find them? Thanks so much!
Dixie Delights says July 14, 2014 at 2:07 PM Mallory – You were a highlight of Haven for me 🙂 So happy to get home and check out your amazing house and darling family. xo