Winter is a time for introspection, for quiet. But Pinterest is always abuzz, working hard to keep us inspired day in and day out. This week, we got particularly stoked on seemingly simple DIY ideas: ways to bring the outdoors in, ways to figure out nagging organization quandries. Everything had us itching to create, make and customize. How can you glean inspiration from the out-of-this-world pretty Jil Sander floral display from last fall's runway show? Easy! Think abstract. How can you look outside and suddenly know how to fix the lighting situation in your reading nook to be useful and cozy? Abstract inspiration! The world is your oyster to bedazzle when you think of Pinterest as less a strict guide for perfect (which, as you know, runs the risk of failure from too-much-pressure!) and more of a soft focus on ways to make really awesome improvements. Read on for what's got us ready to sit down, bundle up and create!
So Pinteresting: Winter Warmth in the Form of DIY Inspo
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Haute Flowers
This is what we mean by pulling inspiration from anywhere. You may have just admired the inventive floral display at the Jil Sander Fall 2012 show, but take the look and run with it. Tall pillars with boxy vases can translate into a million looks in your own space. Heck, you can even get fake flowers if you want a more lasting reminder that spring's coming eventually.
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Cheerful Storage Solutions
It's during the colder seasons that we tend to become more introspective, even if that just means looking around your space for inventive solutions to nagging problems. Got a cluttered entry but don't want a hum-drum store-bought solution? Try this crazy-cute needlepoint hook thingy!
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Basic Bijoux
Pardon the knickers shot here, but we are loving the look of big jewels sewed on to things. Even if you have little talent in this area, you could try gluing—or even having a haphazard go at it. Make it yours!
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Sneaker Upgrade
Okay so these are clearly painfully cute sneakers for little kids, but the pretty dots had us thinking of ways to customize what's in our own closets. Grab a paint marker and go to town on your leather goods: Chelsea boots, your favorite carry-all from 2005, whatever.
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Outdoors In
We are big proponents of bringing the outdoors in, and we are particularly fond of pinecones. They're kind of like nature's Legos in that they are sturdy, pretty and endlessly versatile. They're especially great for making garlands, because strings get all tangled up within them and the hold is basically for forever! Go crazy with pinecones: nature's rad, free crafting supply.
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Simple Stitchery
Just like the bejeweled swim bottoms, simple stitch skills can go a long way: like customizing a ho-hum sweatshirt (as seen here), or pretty much anything you can think of. Go wild.
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Cool Cutlery
Your cutlery is like, so boring, right? If you agree, maybe you can spray-paint them in fluoro colors and give a little edge to your next dinner party.
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Fear No Forage
When we talk DIY, we aren't just talking about customizing your clothes and accessories. Foraging is pretty much one of the coolest skills to have ever. Mushrooms are foragable (with lots of proper guidance!) as are all sorts of greens and other cool edibles. Just study up hard before you go, and maybe even bring along a guide to make sure to get it right.
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Cutest To-Do
Branches are really elegant and well, readily available in the suburbs (and your public parks, too). Why not make the most beautiful to-do list ever with the help of a branch—or make something else like an encouraging sign or reminder.
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Lighting Designer
Just one more branch, we promise. Hang it from the ceiling and drape on some string lights—bam, you've got a super elegant chandelier. Or, put a large branch in a sturdy vase on the floor, then drape string lights for a cool floor lamp. Or... do whatever your heart desires with your awesome branch (another one of nature's free crafting supplies).
