backsplash »

Stylish Storage

May 022013

Stylish storage - game room

Ultimate Recycling
This was an ultimate recycling project using a discarded storage unit and leftover aluminum backsplash panels in art nouveau pattern to create a stylish storage unit. The basic unit is a tossed out shelving unit from a retailer consisting of two plastic cubes. By adding the backsplash panels to the outside, it’s transformed into a stylish cabinet for storage that can be used in a variety of spaces.

Making your own Stylish Storage
The metal backsplash panel is cut for the top and sides. Each piece was attached with adhesive. This easy DIY project was completed in less than an hour. Stylish Storage - Backsplash pieces cut Stylish storage - components

Stylish storage - night stand
How would you use this stylish storage?
This storage unit is very versatile. At 24″ high and 9″ deep, it is a good height for a convenitent place to hold extra items in a guestroom or can be used in a gameroom as shown above. It could also be used in a bathroom or even on the patio.

Backsplash Bang – Bookcase to Wine Rack #2

Give-A-Way, Contests, and Consumer Insights, Recipes and Crafts 2 Responses »

Jan 232013

For the Backsplash Bang project, we were provided a bookcase and one decorative metal backsplash panel to create a new item. After brainstorming ideas with my family, I decided to make a wine rack. Each of us “crafters” kept our idea for transforming the bookcase a secret from the other two. Imagine my surprise when my colleague posted her project and had the same idea I did. Hers looked great! However, my wine rack was already in the works so there was no turning back. Here’s wine rack #2.

All pieces of the bookcase except the back were primed using Zinsser 1-2-3 and painted with two coats of Rust-oleum high gloss black paint.

bookcase panels primed panels panels painted with two coats of high gloss paint

I purchased wooden knobs to use as legs and wooden legs to use for spindles to hold the wine. The knobs were primed and then two coats of black paint were applied. The legs were primed and then painted with two coats of Rust-oleum silver metallic spray paint.

knobs painted black wood legs spray painted silver

To assemble, I first drilled starting holes in the bottom for the legs and knobs. Knobs were attached to the bottom for legs; legs were attached for the spindles.

holes drilled in bottom panel knobs attached to bottom panel for legs legs attached to bottom panel

The metal backsplash panel in the diamond design was cut to size and glued to the back panel, and allowed to dry. Then the bookcase was assembled per instructions.

panel prepared to attach to bookcase back panel tacked to back of bookcase

Another piece of metal backsplash was added to protect the top. Wood molding, also painted black, prevents items from rolling off the top. The finished bookcase turned wine rack . . .

finished wine rack using bookcase and backsplash panel

I really like the way it turned out and surprised that it will hold nine bottles of wine. The project was easy but time consuming to prime and then apply two coats of paint to each side of the bookcase panels. It would be easier to assemble and then paint, adding the backsplash back panel last. Wandering around in Menards for components to make the wine rack yielded the conclusion that $25 doesn’t go as far as one might think. Total cost for the knobs ($2.54), legs ($9.52), paint ($6.35) and trim ($4.99) was $23.40. I had silver paint and adhesive on hand. A flea market find could be used for legs to save on the cost. What would you do to create a Backsplash Bang?

BackSplash Bugs!

Backsplash Designs, Miscellaneous Topic, Recipes and Crafts 4 Responses »

Aug 102012

Backsplash Bugs! I’m sure you are noticing more and more bugs around. Here at 1005 Design we are too! Not just any old bug that you see every year; these are the back splash bugs! What type of bug is this you ask? Well, this is the recreation of one of my favorites, the Dragonfly! I chose the dragonfly because of the symbolism that many cultures have incorporated with it.

A dragonfly is mature, powerful, and poise. This is true due to it being able to fly at 45 miles per hour. But in order to make this dragonfly fly, I needed wings! I needed to make sure that these wings were able to withstand the outdoor elements and still show the grace and beauty of this whimsical creature. The stainless brush backsplash was the perfect design for my weekend project! This incredible creature looks amazing perched on just about anything! Here is how I brought my project to life!

First, I used a staircase spindle for the body. I used two different colors of craft paint to create the base color, green and purple. I used a sanding block to expose areas on the body to create a deeper look. After this I used a brown glaze and covered the wood completely then wiping it off. I did not allow this to dry. By doing this it blends the colors together evenly. I repeated the sanding and gazing process three times and allowed to dry overnight.

The next morning I used a flat black spray paint to add highlights and shadowing of the body. To create a more realistic iridescent look, I applied a bronze spray paint by just slightly dusting the body to give it a shimmer. Allow to dry completely.

I removed the ends of the spindle with a miter saw and sprayed the ends with paint. I used decorative glass rocks for the eyes and a few to accent the tail.

The wings are made of the stainless steel brush backsplash. I created a stencil with cardboard and traced this onto the back splash before I cut the pieces. Make sure you wear gloves and eye protection when cutting metal!

I used a jigsaw to cut the wings. Be sure to clamp the piece of metal down first so that it doesn’t move when cutting. I sandwiched the panel in between two pieces of cardboard and clamped it down. This makes the cut more smoothly by keeping the panel from bouncing around. After the wings were cut, I brushed the edges lightly with sand paper to smooth the cut. Don’t forget to remove the protective film.

(Tip: If a piece of your panel is bent or jagged, use a rubber mallet on a flat surface to level it out.)

I attached the wings to the under part of the body. I used screws to attach the two together. This was the best option and I recommend doing this slowly so that the wood doesn’t split or splinter.

Here is the Dragonfly! Now where to put it! I placed it by the flower pit! I call it the flower pit because it was a fire pit at one time, now it’s full of flowers! I like it better as a flower pit. This allows you to visualize the scale of this creature! I also placed it here by the fish pond. I am not sure which one I like the best. What do you recommend?

Finished Dragonfly by the pond.

References

http://www.dragonfly-site.com/meaning-symbolize.html

Metal backsplash wall art

Recipes and Crafts 1 Response »

Aug 022012

Our upstairs bathroom definitely had an ’80′s feel. After painting light fixtures, papering with wainscotting wallpaper (and then painting the wallpaper), sewing a window covering, purchasing new towel holders, shower curtain, towels and rugs, the last item needed was wall art. This was a simple DIY project using 1005 Design metal backsplash in tile pattern with stainless finish.

Supplies:
aluminum backsplash panel
phrase printed on transparency film
ribbon
glue

Determining what to put on the transparency was probably the most time consuming. This bathroom is used by our college age children and guests. The phrase couldn’t be gender specific (Good morning handsome!) or too cute (Hello Sweetie). “Start each day with a smile” seemed appropriate and a good message to see each morning. I printed the phrase on transparency film.

The next step was to cut the panel by scoring several times. Then cut the film to fit the panel.

Cut metal and transparency for wall art

The glue does mar the finish so glue where you will be covering with ribbon or another decoration. Next cut your ribbon the length and width of each side and attach to the back of the panel. The final step is to attach another length of ribbon for hanging.

Back of panel showing ribbon attached

Total DIY project time for this was art was about an hour. Well worth the time to add a personal touch to any room.

Wall art using backsplash

Marvelous Makeup Tray

Miscellaneous Topic, Recipes and Crafts 2 Responses »

Jun 252012

I love this project. I love it so much I wish I could keep it, but I cannot. I made this for my sister. The interesting part of this project is how I came to create it! So, I’m tinkering in my mom’s basement and I came across this old tray. It’s worn out as you can see in the picture. However, this little tray belongs to my little sister, and I want to bring it back to life. So I took it out the door and took it home. I know that sounds horrible but it really isn’t that bad.

Worn out little tray

I decide to paint this hidden treasure in a matte black. I chose the matte finish because I don’t want any sheen…yet. My sister’s home decor is black and white so this will be perfect! I also didn’t want to salvage the corner pieces; I like a more uniformed look. I used spray paint for this little tray and let it dry overnight.

The next morning I stared at the tray for several minutes thinking, I do not really like this little tray, it needs something more. Something that will make this tray pop! And a light went on to use 1005 design backsplash! I chose my favorite, the art nouveau design in stainless steel. This design will look lovely with her Hodge pod of Greek key and Ikat assorted decorations. I actually found a panel from a previous project and it looked just the right size. Almost! I need to cut it. So I align the pattern evenly to form it into the panel I need. I marked it and scored each side several times to make a clean cut. I used a piece of sandpaper to lightly sand the edges and it is ready to be placed. It fits! And it’s gorgeous.

So I pull it back out, remove the protective film and spray a coat of poly on the tray. Replace the panel and voila! A new makeup tray for my sister’s dresser! This will assist her in organizing! There you have it. Easy peasy!

New backsplash project – desk protector

Miscellaneous Topic, Recipes and Crafts 2 Responses »

Mar 052012

We have a desk from my husband’s grandparents that will stay in our new guest room. I wouldn’t consider it an antique, it’s just old. Still, we do not want to part with it since we have some great memories of playing cards with them, cards that were retreived from the middle drawer of this old desk. Yes, I’d say we are sentimental.

Since the desk will double as a dressing table, I wanted to protect the top from any spills and thought an aluminum backsplash would be a great way to brighten the desk and provide protection. This was an easy project using a backsplash and coordinating fabric and ribbon.

1 – 18″ x 30″ Backsplash panel
12″ x 19″ Fabric
7/16″ wide grosgrain ribbon – 38″

Supplies for backsplash desk protector

1. Cut fabric into two strips 6″ x 19″. Turn under 1/4″ on each 19″ edge and sew.
2. Cut ribbon in two 19″ pieces. Sew one piece on each of the two strips of fabric along a 19″ edge.
3. Fold one strip in half lengthwise with right sides together. Sew 1/2″ seam at each short end. Repeat with the second fabric strip.
4. Trim the corners and turn rightside out. Press.

Trimmed seam

5. Slip a “sleeve” over each end of the panel.

You’re done! Less than an hour from start to finish and no metal cutting required.

While I really like the art nouveau pattern and started the project with that in mind, the diamond pattern complements the the argyle bedding. Which do you like better?

Backsplash desk protector Art Nouveau Pattern

Diamond pattern

Guestroom makeover

Recipes and Crafts 2 Responses »

Feb 092012

Guest room - before

My latest project has been to makeover a guest room. This room has evolved as our family has grown. It started as a play room complete with stenciled crayons when my children were small. It next held exercise equipment, then did double duty as an office, and now the newest twist is a guestroom.

I found a coverlet with wonderful colors but it certainly didn’t match the existing decor. That didn’t stop me from using it while deciding what to do with the room. One of the things I love about painting is the almost instant gratification in creating a new look. It’s an inexpensive DIY project to generate a dramatic change.

The first step was to prep the room and get rid of the existing border which came off easily. Then the walls were washed to remove the residual glue. After removing a mirror and the anchors, spackling compound was needed to patch the holes. A little sanding and the walls were ready.

Finally it was time to begin painting starting with the ceiling. I used Dutch Boy brand paint and really loved it. Admittedly it’s been awhile since I painted a ceiling and I was pleasantly surprised. The paint covered in one coat and went on with so few splatters that I’ve recommended it to several people since using this Dutch Boy paint.

Then on to the walls. I wanted the room to be a welcoming, relaxing space so pulled the aqua color from the coverlet.

The last painting project for this guestroom makeover was the trim. The space really brightened up after painting the woodwork with a fresh coat of white enamel.

Next post in this guest room makeover - a backsplash panel project to protect a desk or table.

Newly painted guest room

Christmas Ornaments using Backsplash Panels

Miscellaneous Topic, Recipes and Crafts No Responses »

Dec 142011

Christmas Ornaments

With Christmas just around the corner, I decided to make the most of leftover materials from a previous project that used kitchen backsplash panels. I cut the panel into various sizes and trimmed with ribbon to craft a unique ornament that reflects the Christmas lights.

Supplies:
- Backsplash panel
- Ribbon
- Glue
- Tape

1. Begin by cutting the panel into ornament sized shapes by scoring with utility knife several times. I used approximately 2″ x 2″ and 2″ x 3″ that corresponded to the design of the panel.

Ready for decorating
2. Attach ribbon to edges on one side and then flip ornament over to attach ribbon to back. Carpet tape cut into small pieces adhered well to the metal panels. It takes a little patience to remove the small strips of paper.

Adding tape for ribbon

Adding ribbon

Finishing edges with ribbon

3. Finish by adding a ribbon loop for hanging the ornament. Crazy Glue is great for the ribbon. Use whatever embellishments you have on hand to create your own unique Christmas ornaments.

Finished Christmas ornaments

That’s it. An easy addition to your Christmas decorating.

Which Metal Backsplash Design?

Backsplash Designs 6 Responses »

Dec 082011

Decisions, Decisions

Since we are running a contest on our favorite backsplash design, I decided it would be the perfect chance to get some help with a decision I have been trying to make.

I like when homes have wood moulding used for decorative touches on walls.

Example of wood moulding on stairway

This is an example of such a look on a stairway. So when we were deciding on a look for our bedroom we added these wood moulding rectangles as accents around the ceiling.

Our wall with wood mouldign accents

So lately I have been thinking that with our bedroom’s clean, minimalist design the decorative metal backsplashes would make our moulding rectangles stand out a little more. Also they would add some extra personality to the room.

My favorite backsplash design is the Art Nouveau pattern, but I am not sure I should go with my favorite.
I did a little mock-up of of how three of these backsplashes would look, and now I need some help with the final decision.

Options for the backsplash that is best to use

From left to right: Art Nouveau, Mosaic, or Weave

Which one of these designs would you use to add a little flair to the room?

Autumn Flower Planter using Backsplash Panel

Recipes and Crafts 5 Responses »

Sep 142011

: Autumn Flower Planter

We’ve had a long, hot summer and I’m ready for fall. The heat and lack of rain was hard on my summer annual flowers so when I saw the mums appear in stores, I wanted to start autumn decorating. I purchased an inexpensive green flower planter and decorated it with a copper backsplash panel left over from a previous project for a serving tray. This backsplash panel in copper goes well with the autumn colors of yellow and bronze mums, and the green planter box.

Items needed:
Planter
Backsplash panel
Adhesive
Clear silicone caulk
Mums or other flowers

: Items for planter

The first step was to determine the size of the panel. I measured and drew a template to fit the container. However, when placing it on the panel, I preferred to follow the lines in the design rather than the exact template so I enlarged it slightly.

: Template on planter

Altered template

I next marked the backsplash panel and scored it several times with a utility knife on the wrong side of the panel to create the cut, then cut through the protective coating.

Cutting panel

It’s better to leave a little extra for the end rather than cutting to a corner. The second trim piece in the picture below took many more scores and the metal curled at the tip. On the next panel I moved the cut away from the edge and this piece was easier to remove. I thought it would be helpful to count the number of times I scored a panel but found it ranged from 12 to 20 depending on how much pressure and the sharpness of the blade. One hint is to turn the backsplash panel over and when you see the indentation the panel can be bent.

Trim pieces

Position and glue the cut pieces of backsplash onto the planter. I added a bead of silicone caulk to seal the edges. It will dry clear in 24 hours.

Silicone caulk on edges

Add mums or flowers of your choice in your custom autumn planter. Doesn’t it look great in the sunshine!

Autumn Flower Planter

Are you ready for fall decorating?

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