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Arts & Entertainment

The Birdcage Project

Instruction and information for a do it yourself design that everyone can handle.

Have a corner in your home that needs a little pick me up? What about a table or dresser that needs some pizzazz? Well, my birdcage project is an easy and cute way to brighten up any room. Remember, hanging things on the wall isn't the only way to take up space. A home shouldn't feel like a museum or gallery! It should reflect who you are and exude life, comfort and creativity.

I've always loved birdcages, especially ones that had vintage appeal. Maybe it was all the birds I had growing up! Not only do they fill space in a smart way, but they allow the space to still feel spacious because of their exterior. They could be a tad pricey, so finding one that's easy on the wallet, but still packs in style, may be a challenge. But there are so many different kinds and due to popularity, they are sold in many shops. Just be on the lookout and you'll find one in no time!

The set of birdcages I'm using for this project I bought at a garage sale. Reusing and recycling is the best way to shop. Just because someone is getting rid of something doesn't mean its garbage! Check out the yard sales in your neighborhood and you'll find the unexpected. I came across this set for $6 and I couldn't walk away empty-handed.

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If you decide to buy a birdcage, that's fine too. Stop by the New Leaf Garden Center on North Long Beach Road and see if they have something suits you. The fun is in the hunt, so get on your comfy clothes, gather up some money and get ready to shop! If you have a hard time, then you're best bet is the Internet.

Once you have your birdcage(s) you're ready to begin. Now, if you like it just the way it is, then fine. But if you need to make some changes, then let's start. The set I bought had an ivory color which didn't really match my living room. My palette is white, light blue and blue/gray  — very contemporary. However, I do have a blend of vintage items throughout the space that gives it sort of an eclectic feel.  So, I wanted to update the cages and give them a shabby-chic vibe. This is how I did it.

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First, I bought white spray paint and changed the color. You can purchase spray paint at Ace Hardware for under $4. I'd recommend using Rust-oleum. Make sure you do this outside and wear a mask. You don't want to breathe this stuff in! Once you've waited about 10 minutes or so, the cages should be dry and you can move on to the next step.

You can really get creative here so don't hold back. I chose to add some reindeer and sheet moss instead of real moss, but you can certainly use it if you want to. I also picked up a small bird's nest with robins' eggs to place inside. I thought it would look really cute and add a nice touch. Plus, for $.99 why not, right?  You might be able to get this stuff at garden centers or country-inspired stores, but if not, then I'd recommend an A.C. Moore or Michaels. It should run you about $8. Don't forget about using their coupons! So far this project has cost me $14!  

If you don't want to use a mosslike feature, then try flowers or even air plants. You can even buy custom-made silk flowers at The Garden Gate, LTD on Sunrise Highway. Like I said, you can get really creative here, so have fun with it. Once you have this step complete, you're pretty much done. 

If you're going to hang them up, you can either use ribbon or string. I used hemp cord because it's strong and natural looking. Plus, it's really cheap and you can hardly see it when the cages are hung. I actually bought two packs at the Dollar Tree by my house. How can you go wrong for a dollar! 

You might even find some in the stationary aisle at King Kullen or Waldbaum's. If you don't want to hang yours, then just make sure you place it with other items so it doesn't look all alone. If you have a set like I do, just keep them together.

Other cool ways to fill up a corner in your house is by using wall decals, hanging a plant or putting up some corner shelves and showcasing some of your favorite collectibles. I hope you enjoyed this project and are proud of what you created! Just because something isn't exactly how you like it, doesn't mean it can't be yours. Use your DIY powers and you can turn it into something you love. Coming soon - how to turn your bookshelf into something exciting and ways to make your home look like it came out of a magazine. Until next time...

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