Sunday, April 5, 2009

What’s your favorite Vignette?

Vignette? No, I haven’t started writing in a different language. Although, the origin of the word, as best as I can determine, is French. I also found several different meanings. One of which has to do with wine. (Probably why I like the word). The context that I have heard this word used in and try to use it myself, is in reference to decorating. (I work this word into a conversation, more often than you might think possible). Yes, I watch way too much HGTV. In decorating terms, the word vignette refers to a small space with a distinct focal point or a small group of decorative elements. I think I like the word because it makes me sound like I know what I’m doing when it comes to decorating. I try new ideas anytime I can get one past my husband. (He cringes every time I say the word paint).

I may not love all the decorating I have done in my house but there are a few vignettes that I really enjoy. One of my favorites is my kitchen window. I like this window in general because I am able to look outside and see my gang riding down the hill in the snow or watch them play in the sand box. I really like when I’m washing dishes and I can see the cows grazing off in the distance. The best part of this window is the way the light comes through the colored glass I have collected. I started several years ago, when I held onto a wine bottle that was a deep royal blue. Shortly thereafter the collection grew. Friends found blue glass and saved it for me. I started picking up a few items here and there at flea markets and discount home stores. Once I put it all together on this window seal, I started expanding my collection to include different colors.



I display red glass from Christmas until Valentine’s Day and then I change it out for green. After Saint Patrick’s Day I put my favorite blue glass back up for the rest of the year. It was one of the easiest areas to decorate. I even incorporate my dish soap into the action. I have a clear glass bottle that I fill with soap and top off with an oil dispenser. I got this idea from Martha herself years ago. I thought the glass bottle looked much better sitting on the sink instead of the original soap container. I have even been known to add a few drops of food coloring to get just the right shade to match the current color of glass. (Yeah, I know what you’re thinking and you’re not the first).

So what is your favorite vignette? What strange thing have you done to make something fit into your décor? What area do you want to decorate next?

Happy decorating!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

I don't think I've ever done anything like this. I love that idea!

Carol said...

I am an artist and paint is on everything I do. I love how you change your palette with the seasons with colored glass. Awesome!

Debbie said...

I need to decorate all of my areas!
And does it mean I am fixated on food if I read your post as "vinaigrette" at first?

Leslie said...

What a great idea! They look beautiful.

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