Diy

Hey there, home décor fans! Tired of guessing where to hang your favorite artwork? We’ve all been there—trying to hit that “perfect” spot. Let’s walk through simple tips to get a balanced display that really changes a room.

We’re at the fun part of our home project: decorating! We just finished a wallpaper mural in our son’s room from Photowall and loved how it turned out. When we ordered artwork, we chose Photowall again. They offer tons of prints, canvases, posters, and murals with easy customization, so it was simple to find pieces that fit our space.

Now for hanging. Here are my favorite tips for getting the best look.

The “eye-level” idea: Not everyone’s the same height
People often say to hang art at eye level, but everyone’s eye level is different. Pick a height that works for your household—a comfortable middle ground, not just a rule.

The Goldilocks rule: not too high, not too low
Think Goldilocks: you want the “just right” height. Not so high you need a ladder, and not so low your dog could admire it better than you. A good rule of thumb is to place the center of the artwork about 57–60 inches from the floor. That usually looks right for most rooms.

Grouping artworks
When you’re hanging several frames, treat the group like one big piece of art. Find the group’s center and measure from there. Mix frame sizes and styles for interest, but keep them inside a shared boundary so everything feels cohesive.

Tools and patience
Before you hammer, grab a tape measure, pencil, and level. Measure twice, mark once, and step back to check the look before making holes.

When to break the rules
Rules are helpful, but breaking them can be great, too. Try dramatic placement—like a statement piece over a doorway or an arrangement that runs floor to ceiling. Intentional rule-breaking can create a striking effect.

Wrap-up
With the Goldilocks approach, a little creativity, and a tape measure, you can hang your art with confidence and make your walls tell your story. Go on—hang those pieces and enjoy the finished look!

If you’re shopping for new pieces, Photowall gave me a coupon for 20% off plus free shipping at photowall.com. Use code: mgh20.

Whether you work from home or spend long hours at the office, sitting in front of a computer most of the day can hurt your posture and create tension that leads to aches and pains. Even as the pandemic eases, many of us still spend a lot of time at desks or screens, which often causes neck and shoulder pain.

There are many ways to ease the discomfort from sitting all day. Here are easy, desk-friendly chair yoga poses that help release tension and stretch the neck, shoulders, back and hips—areas that commonly hold stress when you’re working. Adding a few of these moves throughout your day can help prevent neck, back and shoulder pain. Even 5–10 minutes or a short lunchtime break can make a big difference. The best part is you can do these stretches while staying at your desk in a chair.

For more tips on improving your home or office workspace, check out my post on Zulily, where I share posture tips and ideas for setting up a better home workspace.

Below are several simple stretches that target the neck, shoulders and back. Adding just a few of these chair yoga moves will improve circulation, release tension and give your body some much-needed care.

Chair Yoga Stretches You Can Do at Your Desk

Neck Release (loosens tight neck and shoulder muscles)
Sit tall with your feet flat on the floor. Slowly look up, down, left and right. Bring your chin to your chest, then tilt your head to the right, bringing your ear toward your shoulder—don’t lift or scrunch your shoulder. Hold for 5–10 breaths, then switch sides.

Seated Cat/Cow (opens shoulders and chest; flexes the spine)
Sit near the edge of your chair with feet hip-width and hands on your knees or thighs. Inhale, lift your chest, broaden your collarbones and tilt your gaze up. Exhale, round your spine like a scared cat, tuck your chin and relax your neck. Repeat 5–10 times, or hold each position for a few breaths if that feels good.

Seated Forward Fold (releases tension in the neck, back and hips)
Sit on the edge of your chair with feet slightly wider than hip-width. Place hands on your thighs, inhale, then exhale and fold forward from your hips, bringing your chest down toward or between your legs. Let your upper body hang and release your shoulders and neck. Inhale to sit back up with your hands on your thighs.

Shoulder-opening option: Before folding, clasp your hands behind your back or hold a towel between your hands. When folded, lift your arms to deepen the stretch.

Shoulder Stretch
Bring one arm across your chest (for example, right arm across to the left). Pull your elbow gently toward your chest to feel a stretch across the shoulder.

Desk Downward Facing Dog (stretches shoulders, chest, hamstrings and calves)
Stand in front of a stable desk and place your hands on the desk edge. Step back until your body forms an L shape. Let your chest move toward the floor and breathe for several counts. This stretch works your shoulders, chest, hamstrings and calves.

Crescent Moon (side stretch)
Sit on the edge of your chair with feet hip-width. Inhale and raise both arms overhead. Grab your left wrist with your right hand and lean gently to the right. Exhale, return to center, then grab your right wrist with your left hand and lean to the left. Repeat with your breath for 5 cycles.

Chair Pigeon (releases tight hips)
Sit near the front of the chair. Lift your right knee toward your chest, then cross your right ankle over your left thigh just above the knee. Keep your foot flexed. You may feel a deep hip stretch. For a deeper stretch, lengthen your spine and fold forward from the hips with a straight back as far as comfortable.

Seated Twists (stretches lower back and opens shoulders and chest)
Sit near the front of the chair with feet hip-width. Place your left hand on your right knee, inhale to lengthen your spine, and exhale to twist to the right. Turn from your midsection and, if it feels okay, look over your right shoulder. Hold for 5 breaths, return to center, and repeat on the other side.

Reverse Happy Baby (hip opener)
Sit near the front of the chair and fold forward between your legs with your chin tucked to your chest. Slide your arms behind your calves and reach for the outer edges of your feet. Use your arms to gently pull your body into a deeper fold. Hold for a few breaths, then inhale to sit back up slowly.

Eagle Arms (stretches shoulders and upper back)
Sit tall and extend your arms out to the sides at shoulder height. Cross your right arm over your left with elbows bent and wrap your forearms together if you can, bringing your palms together. Keep your shoulders down and lift your elbows slightly away from your chest. Hold for several breaths and repeat on the other side.

Option to intensify: Press the bottom of the upper arm onto a desk or table while in eagle arms to deepen the stretch.

Shoulder Circles (shoulder mobility)
Extend your arms out to shoulder height and circle them a few times forward, then backward to increase blood flow and mobility.

When work gets busy, it’s easy to sit for hours without moving. Taking short stretch breaks helps relieve muscle tension, reduce fatigue and give your body a reset. Aim to stand or move once every hour, even if it’s just to refill your water, check the mail, or do a few of the simple desk stretches above. Your body will thank you.

This post is sponsored by Sivan Social. All comments and opinions are my own.

With the seasons changing, I’m shifting focus from the garden and patio to the inside of the house. We’ve been eager to redecorate for months, and now that we’ll be spending more time indoors, I can’t wait to start refreshing a few spaces. I’m especially excited to update my home office corner, which sits in the family/living room. It needs to be stylish, functional, and organized so it blends smoothly with the rest of the space.

My plan includes simple updates like wallpaper, new lighting, a desk, and a few decor and organization pieces. One of my favorite places for home decor is Home Depot. Beyond tools and DIY supplies, HomeDepot.com has a wide selection of furniture, bedding, window treatments, kitchenware, and more — everything you need to decorate your home.

I’m taking advantage of Decor Days at Home Depot to save up to 15% on trending styles (9/15 through 9/29). Use coupon code DECORDAYS15 to save.

Because my office is small, I want to use every inch well. Our living space leans modern with earthy touches: warm wood tones, gold accents, lots of greenery, and light colors like soft browns, whites, and blues. Pieces with drawers and shelving are a must for staying organized and maximizing storage.

Favorite Home Office Picks from Home Depot:

Walnut/White Marble Writing Desk
I love the simple design and the large writing surface. The finish is versatile and the white marble top brightens the area. Available in several finishes.

Fallon White Office Chair
A classic, traditional chair that works with many styles. I like the white-washed legs, tufted cushion back, and adjustable height for comfort. It also has nearly a five-star review. Read more here.

White/Gold Brass 6-Shelf Tall Ladder Bookshelf Wall Mount
This ladder shelf has a small footprint but adds vertical storage and visual height — perfect for saving space. Comes in different colors and finishes. Learn more here.

Willow Green Botanical Paper Pre-Pasted Strippable Wallpaper Roll
A statement wall is one of my main goals. This botanical print adds color and pattern without being overwhelming. It’s easy to install and remove, ideal for homes and apartments, and comes in many color options. See options here.

Mid-Century Planters
Live plants bring life and help clean the air. I’m planning to use these plant stands around my desk. Home Depot also has a great selection of houseplants at fair prices.

Water Hyacinth Decorative Baskets
Perfect for hiding odds and ends while adding texture. Use them on shelves or along the floor for a tidy, attractive look. Find here.

Gold Accent Mirror
I love the bold lines of this mirror. Placed across from a window, a mirror can reflect more light and create the illusion of extra space — ideal above a desk. Details here.

Gold Table Lamp
A tall, slim table lamp that offers good light and a bit of glam. Pairs nicely with a neutral palette. Buy here.

Knickknacks and Shelf Decor
Unique decor for shelves adds dimension and personality. I like gold and white wood boxes for hidden storage, crystal-accented bookends for interest, and a trio of small vases for layering.

If you’re thinking about updating your space, check out Decor Days to save up to 15% on trending decor. Also enter the Savings.com #ShopHomeDepotDecor giveaway for a chance to win a $250 e-gift card to spend at Home Depot.

Do you have any rooms you want to refresh or redecorate?

Spread the love

This post is sponsored by Sivan Social. All comments and opinions are my own.
Macy’s Big Home Sale just started, and I’m excited to share some of my favorite deals and picks with you. The sale is a great chance to save up to 60% on furniture, mattresses, rugs, bed & bath, kitchen and dining items, and more. With so many top brands and choices, it’s perfect for refreshing your home, restocking basics, or redecorating before fall and the holidays.
We’ve been redecorating and replacing a few outdated pieces, so I rounded up my favorite finds from the sale that I think you’ll love too.
Even better, Savings.com is giving away two $250 e-gift cards to spend at Macy’s Big Home Sale! Enter to win now through Saturday, July 31st at 11:59 PM PT* for a chance to win. To enter, click the image below or click here.

Kitchen & Dining Finds
3.7-Quart Touchscreen Electric Air Fryer
This air fryer is 50% off, comes in four fun colors, and has great reviews. It’s a larger size that’s perfect for families. I use my air fryer all the time — it makes meals easier and healthier for our family. Purchase here.

Mini Donut Baker
I spotted this and immediately added it to my cart. With fall coming, I can’t wait to make mini donuts with the kids to enjoy with warm apple cider. It’s compact for easy storage, and the non-stick plates make cleanup simple. Purchase here.

Rocket Blender 12-Piece Set
These small blenders are perfect if you have limited counter space or need quick smoothies on the go. The 12-piece set is BPA-free and includes dishwasher-safe accessories: 1 tall blending cup, 1 short blending cup, 1 drinking cup, 2 shaker tops, 2 lids, and 2 comfort lip rings. Under $22 — a great steal and ideal for busy school mornings. Purchase here.

Whiteware 42-Pc. Dinnerware Set
I love the clean look of this all-white set. It’s a large everyday dinnerware set that’s dishwasher and microwave safe, and it’s under $40 for the whole set. Purchase here.

Modern Vintage Colored Glass Collection
I’m obsessed with this vintage-inspired glass collection. The range of colors, shapes, and patterns adds a fun touch to cocktail nights or everyday use. See more here.

Hotel Black and Gold Deco Collection
This collection feels chic and sophisticated — perfect for holiday entertaining. I have a few fall-themed ideas where this set would be gorgeous. Purchase here. Use code SHOP for an extra 20% off.

Bed & Bath Refresh
Ashford Solid 1500 Thread Count Sheet Set
I’m a sucker for high-quality sheets. There’s nothing better than slipping into freshly washed sateen sheets. This set is 75% off and has 4.5-star reviews — grab it while it lasts. Purchase here.

Comforters
If you need a new comforter, now’s the time. The Big Home Sale has a huge selection marked down 60% or more. The Hannah set (pictured above) is one of my top picks. I’ve linked more here.

Ultimate Micro Cotton® Mix and Match 100% Cotton Bath Towel Collection
The end of summer is a great time to replace towels. These are my go-to pick and come in over 20 colors and styles. Use code SHOP for an extra 20% off. Purchase here.

Is there anything specific you want me to help find a deal on? What are your favorite items?
Don’t forget to enter the Savings.com giveaway for a chance to win one of two $250 e-gift cards to spend at Macy’s Big Home Sale!
*See complete Official Rules for entry instructions, full prize descriptions, restrictions and other important details.
Spread the love

This post is sponsored by Sivan Social. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Macy’s Big Home Sale just started, and I’m excited to share some of my favorite deals and picks! The Big Home Sale is a great time to save up to 60% on furniture, mattresses, rugs, bed & bath, kitchen and dining items, and more. With so many top brands and options, it’s perfect for refreshing your home, stocking up on essentials, or redecorating before fall and the holidays.

We’ve been redoing parts of our home and replacing older items, so I rounded up my favorite finds from the sale that I think you’ll love too.

Even better, Savings.com is giving away two $250 e-gift cards to use at Macy’s Big Home Sale! Enter now through Saturday, July 31st at 11:59 PM PT* for a chance to win. Click the image below or click here to enter.

Kitchen & Dining Finds

3.7-Quart Touchscreen Electric Air Fryer
This air fryer is 50% off, comes in four fun colors, and has great reviews. It’s a larger size that’s perfect for families. I use my air fryer all the time—it’s one of my favorite kitchen tools for making meals simpler and healthier. Purchase here.

Mini Donut Baker
I added this to my cart right away. With fall coming, I can’t wait to make mini donuts with my kids and enjoy them with warm apple cider. It’s compact for easy storage and has non-stick plates that make cleanup quick. Purchase here.

Rocket Blender 12-Piece Set
These small blenders are perfect if you have limited space or need quick smoothies on the go. The 12-piece set is BPA-free and dishwasher safe, and includes blending cups, shaker tops, lids, and comfort lip rings. At under $22, it’s a steal and great for busy mornings. Purchase here.

Whiteware 42-Piece Dinnerware Set
I love the clean look of this all-white set. It’s a large dining set for everyday use and is dishwasher and microwave safe. The whole set is under $40. Purchase here.

Modern Vintage Colored Glass Collection
These vintage-style glasses are so charming. I love the range of colors and patterns—perfect for casual use or adding a pop to cocktail night. See more here.

Hotel Black and Gold Deco Collection
This set feels chic and sophisticated—beautiful for holiday gatherings. I have some fun fall entertaining ideas that would pair perfectly with this collection. Purchase here. Use code SHOP for an extra 20% off.

Bed & Bath Refresh

Ashford Solid 1500 Thread Count Sheet Set
I’m a big fan of high-quality, high thread count sheets. There’s nothing like slipping into freshly washed sateen sheets. This set is 75% off and has a 4.5-star rating. Grab it while it’s available! Purchase here.

Comforters
If you need a new comforter, now’s the time. The Big Home Sale has a wide selection marked down 60% or more. The Hannah set (shown above) is one of my favorites. I’ve linked several options here.

Ultimate Micro Cotton® Mix and Match 100% Cotton Bath Towel Collection
The end of summer is a great time to replace and restock towels. These come in over 20 colors and styles and are my top pick. Use code SHOP for an extra 20% off. Purchase here.

Is there anything specific you’d like help finding a deal on? What are your favorite items?

Don’t forget to enter the Savings.com giveaway for a chance to win one of two $250 e-gift cards to spend at Macy’s Big Home Sale!

*See complete Official Rules for entry instructions, full prize descriptions, restrictions, and other important details.

Spread the love

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx on behalf of Hoover®.

One of my favorite things is waking up to a tidy house. There’s something about a clean space that makes the whole day feel better. That’s been especially true now that I work from home and we’re helping our kids with distance learning every day.

With everyone at home more often, sticking to cleaning habits has become essential. More time at home equals more messes. The last few months have tested my patience and flexibility when it comes to keeping the house in order. A messy, disorganized home really raises my anxiety, so I’ve focused on a few simple, realistic routines and tools that help keep things manageable. Our home isn’t always magazine-perfect, but these steps help us avoid spending half the weekend catching up.

9 Daily Habits for Keeping Your House Clean

Make Your Bed Every Morning
Making the bed instantly makes the room feel cleaner. That small act often motivates me to tidy up a few more things. Encourage the kids to make their beds too — they don’t have to get it perfect, but it’s a great first chore.

Clean As You Go
This sounds obvious but it’s often overlooked. Little clean-up moments throughout the day prevent big messes. Wipe counters after cooking, toss junk mail in the recycling right away, and have the kids put away backpacks and shoes as soon as they come in. Rinse dishes and load the dishwasher instead of piling them up. Hand-vacuum crumbs and craft messes immediately. We love our ONEPWR™ Dust Chaser™ Hand Vacuum for quick clean-ups — it’s so easy even the kids can use it!

Keep Supplies Handy
Having basic cleaning supplies within easy reach makes tidying up much simpler. I keep each bathroom stocked and keep the kitchen and dining area ready with what we need. It saves time and avoids the hassle of hunting for supplies.

For larger items like vacuums, we rely on Hoover. The ONEPWR™ Evolve Pet™ Cordless Vacuum is a must for everyday messes, and the ONEPWR™ Dust Chaser™ Hand Vacuum is great for quick spot cleaning.

The ONEPWR™ Evolve Pet™ is lightweight (under 9 pounds) and cordless, so it’s easy to move from room to room without dealing with cords. Its removable, rechargeable ONEPWR battery gives steady power for carpets and hard floors, and the adjustable brush roll and suction settings help tackle different messes. The extra-large dirt cup holds three times more dirt and pet hair. As a family with allergies, we appreciate the antimicrobial brush roll and pet filter that help prevent odor-causing bacteria. I was skeptical about a battery-powered vacuum at first, but it handles crumbs and confetti like a champ.

The ONEPWR™ Dust Chaser™ Hand Vacuum is under 3 pounds and super convenient for quick clean-ups. Its ONEPWR 2.0 Ah battery gives twice the suction and runs for 30+ minutes with a high-performance motor. It’s perfect for cars, couches, or catching glitter after crafts. My kids love grabbing it to help, which is a huge bonus for me.

Use code: MESSYMEMORIES for 10% off ONEPWR products on Hoover.com (not valid on sales). Valid until 10/31.

Morning/Evening Blitz Clean
Spend 10–15 minutes in the morning or evening doing a quick tidy. After dinner, we spend a few minutes putting things away and wiping counters. With everyone pitching in, the house feels much more ready for the next day.

Get Everyone Involved
Cleaning shouldn’t fall on one parent. Assign tasks to each family member and teach kids to clean up after themselves. Kids can do many chores: make their bed, set and clear the table, fold laundry, dust, wash windows, load the dishwasher, pick up toys, vacuum, sweep, and mop. They won’t be perfect, but starting young builds responsibility.

The 5-Minute Rule
If a task takes less than five minutes, do it now. Those little jobs add up, and crossing them off quickly reduces stress and helps keep the house in better shape.

One Load of Laundry a Day
Laundry piles up fast. Doing one load a day has been a game changer for us. Kids can help fold and put away their clothes too.

Progress Over Perfection
Don’t expect to finish everything in a day. Focus on the basics and work on other projects slowly. Consistency beats trying to be perfect all at once.

Everything Has a Place
I’m still organizing, but giving everything a home makes a big difference. Use bins in closets and storage areas, label them, and it becomes much easier to find things and keep surfaces clear.

What’s your favorite cleaning hack?

Hey home decor fans! Struggling to find the perfect spot for your favorite artwork? We’ve all been there. Let’s talk about how to hang wall art so it looks balanced and transforms your space.

We’re finally at the fun part of our home project—decorating the finishing touches! We just finished a wallpaper project in our son’s room using Photowall murals (you can see it here) and loved the result. When it came time to add artwork, we ordered from Photowall again. They have tons of prints and customization options—wall murals, canvases, prints, and posters—so it was easy to find pieces that fit our space.

Now it’s time to hang everything. Here are my favorite tips for getting the best look.

The “eye-level” idea: Are we all the same height?
People often say to hang art at eye level, but everyone’s eye level is different. Instead, pick a height that works for your household—a middle ground that’s not too high or too low.

The Goldilocks rule: Not too high, not too low
Think Goldilocks. You want your art at a “just right” height—high enough to see comfortably, but not so high you need a ladder. A good rule of thumb is about 57 to 60 inches from the floor to the center of the artwork. That usually feels right for most people.

Grouping art: Treat the cluster as one piece
If you’re creating a gallery wall, think of the whole group as one big artwork. Find the group’s center and measure from there. Mix frame sizes and styles for interest, but keep everything within a defined area so it still feels balanced.

Tools: Measuring tape and patience
Before you hammer a nail, grab a measuring tape, pencil, and level. Measure twice, mark your spot, and step back to see how it looks before you commit.

When to break the rules
Rules are helpful, but breaking them can be exciting. Try hanging a statement piece above a doorway or create a dramatic floor-to-ceiling arrangement. When you break the rules on purpose, you can end up with something amazing.

In short: hang loose, hang right
With the Goldilocks approach, a little creativity, and a trusty measuring tape, you’ll be ready to create a display that shows off your style. Go hang those pieces with confidence—your wall, your rules, your story. Happy decorating!

Photowall gave me a coupon code for 20% off plus free shipping at photowall.com. Use code: mgh20.

Spread the love

This post is sponsored by FAO Schwarz.

I can’t believe the holidays are already here. For some reason, Christmas sneaked up on me this year—I usually have my shopping done by mid-November, but I’m only just getting started. When I shop for my youngest (6 years old), I look for open-ended, creative toys. She has a huge imagination, and I want to keep that spark alive. Extra points for screen-free toys that encourage pretend play!

FAO Schwarz is one of the oldest and most iconic toy brands, and I love that they offer so many unique, special toys. I remember being a kid and staring in awe at their displays, and it’s wonderful to see that same look on my children’s faces. Now families can enjoy FAO Schwarz toys at Target—both in stores and online—as well as at FAO Schwarz locations. This holiday season Target carries exclusive FAO Schwarz items, with over 120 toys and a special capsule collection celebrating FAO Schwarz’s 160th anniversary. Prices range from $9.99 to $149.99, including 50 toys under $20, so there are options for every budget.

Here are a few of my favorites, all available online (I linked them below) and at your local Target.

Giant 69″ Dance-On Piano Mat
My kids love music, so this went straight into my cart. It’s a giant 69″ interactive piano that mixes music, dancing, and play. With 38 notes, 5 tunes, and easy instructions, kids can learn, play, record, and dance their energy out. It’s big enough for more than one child to play at once and has an auto-off feature to save batteries. This will get a lot of use this winter!

Make-Believe Magic Vanity Mirror Makeup Set
This pretend vanity lights up with bright LEDs and comes with lots of fun accessories. It’s perfect for kids to use on themselves or to glam up dolls and stuffed animals. The large drawer is great for storing everything when playtime is over.

Make-Believe Bakery Oven Cookie Decorating Clay Play Set
This bakery play set is adorable and great for pretend baking. The 25-piece set includes tools to roll out dough, scoop cookies on and off a baking sheet, and decorate toy cookies. It even includes 5 bright colors of clay for decorating.

Glamour Purse Set Pretend Play Makeup Kit
This purse playset gives little divas everything they need for glamorous pretend play—without the mess of real makeup. The set includes a purse and accessories like pretend nail polish, compact, eye shadow, blush, lipstick, a hairbrush, a credit card, and sunglasses. Perfect for princess-obsessed kids.

Rescue Responders Wooden Fire Station Playset
I love this multi-level wooden fire station. It transforms from a firetruck into a fire station and features working gears, multiple levels, vehicles, and play characters—a total of 21 pieces for hours of imaginative play. When you’re finished, it closes up into the firetruck for easy storage and has a handle for on-the-go play.

Spread the love

This post is sponsored by FAO Schwarz.

I can’t believe the holidays are already here — it feels like Christmas snuck up on me this year. I usually finish my shopping by mid-November, but this year I’m only just getting started. When I shop for my youngest (6 years old), I look for open-ended, creative toys that spark her imagination. Extra points if they’re screen-free and encourage pretend play!

FAO Schwarz is one of the oldest and most iconic toy brands, and I love that they offer so many unique, classic toys. I remember being amazed by their displays as a kid, and it’s a joy to watch that same wonder on my children’s faces. This season, you can find FAO Schwarz toys at Target stores, online, and at FAO locations. There are over 120 toys plus a special capsule collection celebrating FAO Schwarz’s 160th anniversary, so there’s something for every child. Prices range from $9.99 to $149.99, with 50 toys under $20—making gift giving easy and budget-friendly.

Here are a few of my favorites, available online (I’ve linked them below) and in-store at Target:

Giant 69″ Dance-On Piano Mat
My kids love music, so this went straight into my cart. It’s a huge 69″ interactive piano mat with 38 notes, 5 tunes, and easy-to-follow controls. They can learn, play, record, and dance — it’s big enough for more than one child and shuts off automatically to save batteries. Perfect for burning off winter energy!

Make-Believe Magic Vanity Mirror Makeup Set
This light-up pretend vanity comes with LED lights and lots of fun accessories. It’s great for kids to play dress-up or to glam up dolls and stuffed animals. The large drawer stores all the pieces neatly when playtime is over.

Make-Believe Bakery Oven Cookie Decorating Clay Play Set
Adorable and full of pretend-baking fun. This 25-piece set has everything kids need to roll out dough, place cookies on a baking sheet, and decorate with the included tools and five bright clay colors. Hours of imaginative play!

Glamour Purse Set Pretend Play Makeup Kit
A perfect gift for little divas who love to pretend. This set includes a cute purse filled with pretend nail polish, compact, eye shadow, blush, lipstick, hair brush, a credit card, and sunglasses — all the glam without the mess of real makeup.

Rescue Responders Wooden Fire Station Playset
I love this multi-level wooden fire station. It transforms from a firetruck into a fire station and includes working gears, multiple levels, vehicles, and 21 play pieces for long-lasting imaginative play. When they’re done, everything stores inside the firetruck, which has a handle for easy transport.

Using wallpaper is a great way to add personality and visual interest to a room. When it was time to decorate our oldest’s bedroom, I wanted a bold, fun forest mural. We’d used Photowall murals in our living room before and loved the quality and results, so I chose them again. Photowall makes installation simple with clear instructions, and you can customize the mural size and orientation to fit your room. They offer many designs, and you can even order sample pieces to try before you commit.

For our son’s room we picked Foggy Forest (available in several colorways). It’s a moody, dense forest image that creates a calm feel and will grow with him—he’s nine now and we wanted something that would still work as he moves into his pre-teen years. It’s atmospheric without being too dark and perfect for a nature-loving kid.

If you’re thinking of using wallpaper, here are steps to guide you through the process:

How to use wallpaper to transform a room:
1. Plan and visualize
Decide the overall look and mood you want. Browse designs, patterns, and colors for inspiration. Collect samples or make a mood board to see how the wallpaper will work with your furniture and colors.

2. Measure the walls
Measure the walls accurately to know how much wallpaper you’ll need. Include doors, windows, and any architectural features in your calculations.

3. Prepare the room
Remove old wallpaper, clean the walls, and repair any cracks or holes. Sand rough spots so the surface is smooth and dry before you start.

4. Gather supplies
Get the wallpaper, adhesive or paste (unless pre-pasted), a smoothing brush or squeegee, a sharp knife or scissors, a tape measure, and a plumb line or level. Use the adhesive recommended by the manufacturer. If you order from Photowall, they provide the needed supplies and adhesive.

5. Start from the left
Begin on the left side of the room. Use a plumb line or level to make sure the first strip is perfectly straight.

6. Hang the wallpaper
Align the first strip with the plumb line and smooth it from top to bottom, removing air bubbles with a brush or squeegee. Trim excess at the ceiling, baseboards, and corners.

7. Continue with the remaining strips
Match patterns and edges as you go. Apply adhesive as needed and smooth each strip carefully for a seamless finish.

8. Finishing touches
Check for bubbles or small flaws and smooth them out with a brush or a needle. Wipe away any extra adhesive with a damp sponge.

Let the wallpaper dry completely before moving furniture back or adding decor. We still have a few updates to finish in his room, but the mural already makes a big impact. It was easy to install and gave the room a real “wow” factor. Once we add new bedding, lights, and decor, it will feel complete.

Patience, attention to detail, and careful work will give you a beautiful result. Wallpaper can feel intimidating, but it’s a very doable DIY. I highly recommend Photowall—their selection is huge, the quality is excellent, and they make the process straightforward.

Spread the love