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4 Clever Tips To Set Up A Portable Kitchen Cart For Entertaining

One of the most convenient and fun kitchen island trends is the portable kitchen cart. With this flexible piece of furniture, you get all the goodness of an island, wherever and whenever you need it. Go from an outside BBQ, to Sunday football in the living room, to a buffet-style dinner with no problem. Just roll your portable kitchen cart to where the party is, and instantly increase your countertop and storage space. To make your portable island even more functional for entertaining, here are a few clever tips for setting it up.

1. Self-Serve Bar

The portable cart is one of the most popular kitchen island trends, because it makes entertaining so much easier. When you are hosting a party, having an easily accessible self-serve bar is a great way to take stress off the host and allow guests some freedom.

When transforming your portable kitchen cart into a self-serve bar station, here is what you’ll want to include:

Use trays to create zones (one for glassware, one for liquor, one for cocktail napkins, an so on). This stops total madness from ensuing within 5 minutes of your party starting, and makes tidying up now and then a much quicker task.
Find ways to add pops of color whether with coasters or an ice bucket. It will help draw attention to your self-serve station for guests and give the cart a little style.
Take advantage of cabinet storage. You’re inevitably going to run out of glasses or mixer, so stock up the cabinets with the essentials.

2. Double Up As Decoration

Willow Lane Cabinetry has a wide variety of portable kitchen carts, and while each look is uniquely beautiful, you can amp up your cart’s style by letting it serve as a piece of décor! Does your party have a theme? Have you been dying to show off those vintage champagne glasses you scored at the flea market? Get creative and incorporate some decorations that will complement your special occasion and your cart.

Have fun with this and let your personality shine — just be mindful of clutter. You want to enhance your portable cart, not overwhelm it with too many decorations. While a book is a cute divide, it loses its appeal if its knocked over every time someone picks up the vodka.

3. Keep the Crazy Out of the Kitchen

Here’s another reason why portable carts are one the greatest kitchen island trends — they keep things calm in the kitchen! Rather than overburdening your countertops with serving ware, food, and drinks, you can delegate some of those items to your cart.

Think about your specific event when deciding how to set up your cart. Would it be most convenient to serve dinner buffet-style and keep dishes on top of the cart? Would storing plates and silverware on shelves make the day run a little smoother?

With all that extra storage and countertop space right where you need it, there are endless options for optimizing your cart for entertaining.

4. Dessert Bar

One of our favorite ways to set up a portable kitchen cart is as a dessert station. Serving as a static piece of furniture in the room, a dessert station gets people really excited about the meal. Who doesn’t love cupcakes? Dessert trays also give you those decorating capabilities we talked about in the second tip.

Tiered cake platters, colorful plates, and pretty confections help make quite an impression. Try to have a variety of desserts on hand to suit different tastes: something simple and not too sweet (like shortbread cookies or pound cake), something chocolate (like brownies), and something fruity (pies are always a good idea). Keep your dessert plates and napkins on top of the cart as well so guests will be encouraged to help themselves, and come back for seconds.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen of your dreams with our 100% free kitchen design tool. We offer all wood, semi-custom kitchen cabinets, fully assembled and delivered for free, with standard features like soft closing doors and drawers, and 6-way adjustable steel hinges. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your new kitchen. We give you more and save you money! Visit our website to see our beautiful products today!

Make 2017 A Classic Year With The New Classic Collection From Willow Lane Cabinetry

Let’s be honest. Some kitchen design trends are just more timeless than others, and cabinets are no different. To give you the clean, fresh cabinetry your remodel needs in a timeless style that will last, Willow Lane Cabinetry created the new Classic Series. When remodeling your kitchen, you want to design a room that you’ll still love years from now. Not a space that will be out of style the second your project is finished.

Read on to discover all of the breathtaking styles in this series that will surely make 2017 a classic year.

Midtown Shaker Kitchen Cabinets

Shaker cabinets are definitely one of the kitchen design trends that never go out of style. They are equally traditional and modern, which is undoubtedly why they are included in the Classic Series. These are the kind of cabinets that can truly last generations.

The Midtown Shaker style is unique, with a design that is a bit more contemporary than you typically see with Shaker cabinets. The look is still simple and modern, but can be described as being a little more cutting edge.

You can find the Midtown Shaker cabinets available in White, Cream, Walnut, and Dark finishes.

Bradford Style Kitchen Cabinets

If you’re looking for statement cabinets, the Bradford style is for you. These sophisticated kitchen cabinets feature raised door panels and recessed drawer panels. The result is a seamless, polished look that really is a dream come true.

You can also add some eye-catching elements to your design by incorporating glass doors or a gorgeous wine rack. To see what your vision will look like, take advantage of the free kitchen design service from Willow Lane Cabinetry.

You can find the Bradford cabinets available in Ivory, Spice Glaze, and Cinnamon Glaze finishes.

Union Classic Series Kitchen Cabinets

Another great style found within the Classic Series is Union. You can find the Union cabinets available in White and Grey finishes. These classic kitchen cabinets feature a full overlay design, but are made a bit more modern by their recessed door and drawer panels. We like to think of Union style cabinets as an updated version of time-honored favorites.

Like all Willow Lane Cabinetry collections, quality is as important as design. The Union features plywood box construction, and soft close drawers and doors. They’ll last as long as you love them, and we’re pretty sure you’ll want to keep these cabinets around for awhile.

Oxford Decadent Cabinets

Available in two delicious dark glazes, the Oxford style is a truly decadent set of cabinetry. For the homeowner that loves art and elegance, they will find it all with sophisticated and classic Oxford kitchen cabinets.

This set features solid wood doors, dovetailed drawers, and raised door panels for high grade quality and a high class look. These cabinets can also be enhanced to suit many kitchen design trends. With the Oxford style, you have the option of adding glass doors, decorative moldings, and other ornate accessories to embellish as you please.

You can find the Oxford cabinets available in Cinnamon and Merlot Glaze finishes.

Vision Transitional Modern Cabinetry

Vision is a fun, transitional style that adds flair in a strong but understated way. A perfect fit for modern yet classic kitchen design trends. With its applied moldings, recessed drawers and door panels, Vision brings undeniable beauty and touch of traditional elegance.

Available in the bright Almond finish, everything about this line from the Classic Series brings joy and personality to the kitchen. Whether seeking balance for a more modern design or looking to freshen up a traditional style, Vision will deliver.

Tuscan Traditional Style Cabinets

Last but certainly not least is the Tuscan style. This eye-catching set spares no detail, and will transform your kitchen into a stylish space in 2017. If you want to add a real “wow” factor to your new kitchen, this style will achieve just that.

With full overlay doors and recessed drawer and door fronts, these cabinets will 100% grab your attention. Available in two very different but equally stunning finishes, you can choose from the bright Almond Glaze or rich Walnut.

Pantone’s Color Of The Year 2017 And How To Use It In Your Kitchen

Have you heard the news? Pantone, the world’s leading authority on color, recently announced their 2017 color of the year! Greenery, a fresh yellow-green, makes us long for the coming spring. According to Pantone, green is nature’s neutral. It’s like a breath of fresh air for your home. So it seems like the perfect color choice to reinvigorate and revitalize your kitchen after a long winter. Bring a bit of nature inside with some fabulous kitchen design ideas that incorporate the color green. Well show you how!

Add a touch of green to your space with actual greenery.

A few well-placed indoor houseplants can do wonders to freshen up a room and add a pop of color. Philodendron, bird’s nest fern, dracaena, cast-iron plant, snake plant, and parlor palm are all easy to care for, and have that signature shade of yellow-green that is the color of 2017. Or plant some potted herbs for cooking like basil, oregano, parsley, and cilantro, and place them in a sunny spot in your kitchen.

Accessorize in unexpected ways in the kitchen.

According to the principles of feng shui, green is the perfect color for the kitchen since it helps to promote digestion. Paint an accent wall in Greenery, add a green valance above the kitchen sink, or accessorize with green canisters, table linens, dishtowels, oven mitts, utensils, plates, area rugs, and small appliances.

Banish boring and add a burst of color with furniture.

If you are feeling creative, add some fun and funky style by painting metal bar stools or wood kitchen chairs in an eclectic green. This easy DIY (do-it-yourself) project will make a bold statement when done sparingly.

Make your neighbors green with envy by installing new kitchen cabinets in a gorgeous green hue.

Our Society Shaker Sage cabinetry is finely crafted, with a uniquely charming finish. Not quite as bright as Greenery, this lovely hue falls a few steps down on the color swatch for a lighter touch. The soft green color compliments the clean lines of these Shaker cabinets, making them right on trend while remaining classic.

Create an island oasis by following kitchen island trends.

Society Shaker Sage gives your space a hint of neutral color, and can be used throughout the entire kitchen. But if the thought of an all-green kitchen feels like too much of a good thing, pair white or Society Shaker Canvas cabinets with a Society Shaker Sage island instead. Kitchen island trends lean towards mixing and matching finishes, and the result will be truly stunning!

In 2017, it’s easy being green! Start the New Year with a new look by incorporating the color green in your kitchen.

Create A Classy And Elegant Kitchen With Dark Cabinets

In the past, light cabinets may have been the favorite finish but today dark cabinets are just as beloved — and for good reason! While white and light wood cabinets offer bright and cheery rooms, dark cabinets create a classic and elegant kitchen. For inspiration, take a look at these kitchen design ideas that tap into the dark cabinet and kitchen island trends we love most.

Best Themes For Dark Cabinets

When browsing kitchen design ideas, it’s best to first hone in on a theme. While in theory dark cabinets work perfectly fine with any style, there are some themes that really help them shine. Those kitchen themes are modern, traditional, and Old World.

Modern kitchens are sleek, heavy on stainless steel, and tend to use neutral colors rather than vibrant hues. Dark cabinets perfectly play into this clean, streamlined theme by limiting transitions and serving as a focal point.

Traditional and Old World styles work great with dark cabinets as well because they are inspired by that classic, European style. The dark finish will beautifully emphasize a brick or tile backsplash or floor.

Willow Lane Cabinetry’s Best Dark Finishes

Once you know your theme, it will be much easier to select your cabinets. A few of our favorites at Willow Lane Cabinetry are:

Manchester Shaker in Espresso or Black: Shaker style cabinets are very versatile, and their clean lines make them ideal for a modern kitchen. Both the warm espresso and black finishes are sleek and contemporary.

Roosevelt in Teaberry: Willow Lane Cabinetry’s Roosevelt Collection offers sophistication to a traditional kitchen. The raised panel doors feature an intricate design, and with the Teaberry you get the added beauty of this rich, dark chocolate finish.

Oxford in Merlot Glaze: These cabinets are right on point for your Old World theme. The Classic Series was made to last for generations, with decorative moldings and glass doors. With the Merlot Glaze, you have a truly unique finish that melds deep berry and dark brown.

You can stick with the same finish throughout, or mix and match a bit. Lighter cabinets can serve as a border or arch around your stovetop, or you can go with a different finish for your kitchen island.

Kitchen Island Trends That Complement Dark Cabinets

White marble countertops provide a beautiful contrast to dark cabinets, but we are also seeing a lot of kitchen island trends that utilize unusual materials.

Do you love to cook? Butcher-block countertops create a great foundation for chefs, and their light color also helps dark cabinets to really stand out. Like white marble, they provide a beautiful contrast, but also add a unique element to your kitchen.

Stainless steel countertops are another one of the unusual, but very cool, kitchen island trends. They fit in perfect with a modern theme, will make your dark cabinets pop, and help to minimize transitions when paired with stainless steel appliances.

Use Our Free Design Tool to Bring Your Kitchen Design ideas to Life

Once you’ve decided on the cabinet and kitchen island trends you want in your home, utilize our free kitchen design tool to get a customized layout, photorealistic rendering, and itemized list in just 48 hours!

Start 2017 With The Bathroom Vanity Of Your Dreams

Are you starting the New Year with the same old bathroom? It’s not unusual to want a fresh start come January, and your home is no exception. So why not resolve to start 2017 with the bathroom of your dreams? A new bathroom vanity is the place to start, since it will be the focal point of your space. Willow Lane Cabinetry is here to help! Our cabinets are made to order (no mass production here)! With solid maple face and doorframes, all plywood I-beam construction, full overlay designs, dovetailed drawer boxes and soft close, full extension glides no detail is too small. Plus our selection can’t be beat! Here are just a few of our favorite bathroom vanities to start the New Year off on a beautiful note!

Society Shaker White (Semi-Custom)

With ten shades and styles of white cabinetry to choose from, it was hard to pick just one. Our Society Shaker White bathroom vanity series is semi custom, with clean, simple lines that seemed fitting for a fresh start. The face frame on these cabinets is made from 1-1/2” solid maple, with a premium MDF center for strength and durability. The soft white finish offers a sophisticated, timeless touch to any room, large or small. Plywood box construction, soft close drawer glides, and a full overlay design make these cabinets a great value. Customize your bathroom with a vanity for a stunning addition to any bathroom.

Roosevelt Dove Gray (Semi-Custom)

Dove gray is right on trend for 2017, and our Roosevelt Dove Gray bathroom vanity collection is the epitome of contemporary transitional style. These solid maple, semi custom cabinets are the perfect balance for those who want a neutral palate without being vanilla. Neither dark nor light, the stunning painted gray finish compliments the raised panel doors and highlights the beauty of these elegant cabinets. Select from customizable accessories like decorative feet, glass mullion doors, end panels, and molding.

Roosevelt Sage With Chocolate Distress And Walnut Highlights (Semi-Custom)

Trends are leaning towards shades of green for the upcoming year. In fact, Pantone recently named “Greenery” as its 2017 Color of the Year. Green is symbolic of spring and new beginnings, and can be a refreshing, neutral pop of color that brings the outdoors in. Our Roosevelt Sage with Chocolate Distress and Walnut Highlights bathroom vanity is semi-custom, and features soft close drawers, and a solid wood and plywood construction. They have a toned finish with artistically applied glazing that really make these cabinets a truly unique choice, and one that is sure to impress.

Manchester Shaker Black (Semi-Custom)

The rich, dark finish on our Manchester Shaker Black collection has a classic feel, while clean, minimalist lines give it a modern touch. The full overlay design and plywood box construction makes these Shaker cabinets exquisite. These semi-custom cabinets also feature full extension, soft close, dovetail drawers, and solid maple door and face frames. The door centers are constructed of premium MDF to help prevent cracking or warping. Customizable features include posts, brackets, corbels, valances and more. Shaker cabinets are timeless, and will offer unmatched beauty for years to come.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen or bath of your dreams with our 100% free kitchen design tool. We offer all wood, semi-custom bath and kitchen cabinets, fully assembled and delivered for free. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!

How To Deep Clean Your Kitchen In 7 Steps

From how to clean kitchen hoods to sparkling kitchen sinks, we have all the answers and all the steps you need to start off 2017 with a shiny and clean kitchen.

Step 1: Everything has to go.

Okay, not everything has to go. But everything you don’t need has to go. That means a strong sweep of your pantry, kitchen cabinets, refrigerator, and under the sink (yikes)!

You know all that food you’re not going to eat, food that you shouldn’t eat (check expiration dates on lingering items), those disposable plastic containers and lids that have multiplied to unthinkable numbers, questionable sponges, and anything else that you won’t miss? Let it go.

Step 2: Start up top and then get low.

Dust falls. Cleaning solutions drip. Don’t clean the same space twice. Start from the top and work your way down. For the ceilings and light fixtures, a microfiber duster works best.

Your next stop should probably be your kitchen hood. Not sure what to do there?

The mystery of how to clean kitchen hoods is about to be solved! Simply create a solution with warm water and dishwashing detergent. Remove the grates and use a sponge or brush to clean out dust and grease. You can use this same method for cleaning the hood. Never use a solution or sponge that could scratch the stainless steel. It’s that easy.

Step 3: Shimmy on down to the cabinets.

Your kitchen cabinets are calling out for some TLC. The best way to clean them is by diluting all-purpose kitchen cleaner, wood cleaner, or white vinegar and wiping them down with a cloth. Follow with a wet rag and clean water to remove any residue, and then dry with a separate cloth.

Step 4: Scrub that sink like it’s 1999.

But do it gently. Cleaning kitchen sinks doesn’t take a lot of force. Simply use a nylon sponge and some baking soda or Bar Keeper’s Friend. If you rinse your sink routinely, you shouldn’t have too much work to do.

Step 5: Take it back to the refrigerator.

Now that you’ve tossed all that expired and unwanted refrigerator and freezer food, here is a fun task for you. Cleaning out your favorite large appliance. Yes, that is going to require you to empty it out. Sorry, but we promise it will be quick and painless.

Put all the items to the side so you can spray the inside (and outside) with disinfectant. Some disinfectants will advise letting the product sit for a few minutes. Start on the inside, wipe everything down and then work your way out. Then get back in there and absorb any excess cleaner with a dry cloth. Put in a new box of baking soda while you’re at it to keep things smelling fresh.

The next step is organizing the refrigerator and freezer, of course! How many times have you thought things should be put in a better place? Now is your chance to make it happen. If you are feeling ambitious after tackling the refrigerator and freezer, why not clean the oven too?

Step 6: Don’t forget the pantry.

If your kitchen has a pantry cabinet, it could probably use a good once over. When was the last time you really wiped down those shelves? Grab a clean, damp cloth and get it done.

Step 7: Finish with the floors.

Now it’s time to get low, but you can actually stay standing! First vacuum to pick up any crumbs. Pay special attention to the corners.

Then whether you have tile or hardwood, you will want to use a mop and floor-cleaning product that suits that material.

At this point it’s probable wise to get out a piece of paper and pen to make a “Do not enter!” sign, since the last thing you want after deep cleaning your kitchen is dirty sneakers tracking dirt on your floors!

How To Host A Potluck Like A Pro

The holiday season is here, and there is no better way to share a great meal with family and friends than by having a potluck dinner! This casual style of dining is wonderful because everyone contributes and comes together to share. It also takes pressure off of the host, so you aren’t preparing an entire holiday feast on your own. Best of all, you get a taste of everyone’s special holiday dishes! All you need is a kitchen island with plenty of countertop space (or a large table), and a little know-how. Below are six tips for hosting an incredible holiday potluck with ease!

1.Stay Organized

Make sure you have enough supplies for all your guests. Keep your kitchen stocked with the necessities like plates, bowls, cups, napkins, and utensils. Don’t be afraid to go with festive paper plates and plastic forks. If you have a large party, clean up will be much easier with disposables. Also keep extra basic essentials on hand like condiments and serving ware in case the need arises. In the holiday shuffle, it’s easy to forget the small details.

2.Think Of A Theme

Themes are helpful when planning the menu. You want the various dishes to complement each other, so choose a theme that everyone agrees upon. For example, an Italian theme would probably include lasagna, sausages and peppers, and tiramisu, while a traditional American potluck might have macaroni and cheese, ham, and apple pie. Pick by popular cuisine, or choose by ingredients like seafood or local vegetables. Also consider the time of day (breakfast, lunch, or dinner).

3.Decide On Dishes

Start a list of who is brining what to avoid duplicate or similar dishes. This way you can cover all the major courses and party favorites. There should be appetizers, soups or salads, entrees, sides, desserts, and beverages. Keep track in case of any last minute changes or cancellations. The host should be responsible for the main course. Also allow enough time for guests to research and prepare their recipes.

4.Plot Portion Sizes

You don’t need to be exact, but it’s better to prepare too much than too little, especially if your dish is the hit of the night. People usually don’t eat full portions, so they can try almost everything on the table. Encourage guests to bring containers for leftovers to take home after the party.

5.Prepare Accordingly

Guests will prepare dishes anywhere from the night before to a few hours before serving, but some dishes may need a little last minute prep at the party. Coordinate to see who will need to use the oven or stove, and ask them to prepare as much as they possibly can at home.

6.Perfect Presentation

Kitchen island ideas for potlucks have no boundaries. The key is to display all the dishes in an organized and beautiful arrangement (buffet-style) so that it’s easy for your guests to navigate and get their food as quickly as possible. Use nice serving platters, bowls, and dessert stands for a pretty presentation, with serving spoons/forks when needed. Group like items together, in logical order, with beverages and desserts at a secondary location.

Have your kitchen flowing and glowing this holiday season when hosting a harmonious holiday potluck. These six tips and tricks will have you feeling like a potluck pro, so your party will be a stress free success. Everyone will appreciate the attention to detail, preparation, and organization you’ve put into the potluck — not to mention the fabulous food!

5 Cozy Cabin Kitchen Cabinet Ideas

How perfect does a ski trip sound right now? Imagine yourself after a long day on the slopes, settling back into your toasty cabin, cuddling up by the fireplace, and snacking on a charcuterie board while you sip wine. Today we are going to share some kitchen design ideas that will allow you to enjoy that ambiance all year long.

There’s no need to live in an actual cabin, by the way. With these kitchen design ideas, you’ll be able to bring the comfort and charm of a cozy cabin right to your home. No snowy mountains or pine trees required.

1. Warm And Welcoming Kitchen Cabinets

When choosing your cabinetry, opt for rustic kitchen cabinets like our Manchester Shaker in Brandywine. Dark finishes, like this rich shade of brown, embodies the cabin style. Also be sure to include some open shelving. Almost all cabin-inspired kitchen design ideas include a welcoming element, and an open-door cabinet policy says, “Make yourself at home.” Utilize that space wisely and display pretty ceramic plates or copper mugs that will add charm.

2. Farmhouse Sink For A Vintage Touch

Cabins tend to have an authentic feel. Even if they are remodeled, they maintain some of their original features. This way they never completely lose their vintage character and appeal. A great way to give a nod to the past is with a farmhouse kitchen sink. It will feel original and give your kitchen a vintage air, but is also really trendy and stylish.

3. Natural Elements Reminiscent Of Cabin Life

Wood tends to be a dominant material in cabin kitchens, and there are many ways for you to incorporate this natural element into your home. From wood flooring to exposed ceiling beams, focus on one or two areas where you can include natural elements to amp up your cabin-inspired theme.

4. Benches Instead Of A Traditional Table And Chairs

Swapping out a traditional kitchen table for one with bench seats is a cool way to add charm. You instantly achieve that laid-back cabin feel, while also adding more natural elements like we just covered. Look for a picnic table style made out of distressed oak. These bench kitchen tables are the ultimate rustic furniture and one of our favorite cabin-inspired kitchen design ideas.

5. Soft Lighting That Mimics Dim Firelight

A fireplace is an essential part of a cabin. In fact, when imagining a cabin, we are sure that dim firelight is one of the first things to come to mind. But you may not necessarily want one in your kitchen. Sure there are plenty of open concept kitchen design ideas that have built in fireplaces that can be seen from the kitchen. But if your floor plan is more traditional, you can still achieve that fireside glow with artificial light. Use soft lighting for your foundation or overhead light, and chose brighter bulbs for your spotlights. That way, when you need your kitchen to be bright it can be, but you can also enjoy that warm glow when you don’t. Alternatively, you can install a dimmer, which will give you the best of both worlds with the switch of a button.

How To Wash, Dry And Fold Towels Like A Pro

Overnight guests year round will appreciate a tidy linen cabinet filled with fresh and fluffy towels. Take the time to wash, dry and fold your towels so that your guests feel pampered during their stay. Here are some tips to help you become a laundry pro this winter! Care for your towels by washing them every three or four uses. By washing and drying your towels properly, and taking the time to keep them neatly folded and stored in your bathroom vanity or linen cabinet, your guests will feel more comfortable and welcome during their visit.

Washing Your Towels Properly

Wash new towels separate from clothing before their first-time use to remove any lint. If you want to set the color, add a ½ cup of vinegar to the wash.
Only use half of the recommended amount of detergent, since the thick material of towels is difficult to rinse and excess detergent left behind can promote bacterial growth.
Follow the standard rules when washing. Use warm water for colored towels, and add color-safe bleach or Borax once every few washes. Use hot water and nonchlorine bleach (as needed) for white towels.
Give towels a good shake when taking them out of the washer to help fluff the terry loops, and allow for maximum absorbency.
Store laundry detergent and other necessary items neatly tucked away behind cabinet doors in the laundry room. Keep items organized together for easy access.

Drying Fresh Towels For Your Guests

Always use your dryer for towels so that they can get their driest and fluffiest. Do not hang dry.
Dry towels on the highest setting to make sure they are fully dry before removing them from the dryer. Remember that mildew will grow on anything that is even slightly damp.
If you are in a pinch, throw a clean, dry towel in with the wet towels. This will help absorb the moisture quicker so that towels can dry faster.
Soften your towels by using one or two dryer balls in the dryer. The bouncing of the balls acts as a natural fabric softener.

Folding Towels With Ease

The key to proper use of shelf space is to fold bath and hand towels in thirds. Hold the bath towel in so that the front is facing you. Grab the towel by the two upper corners, then hold the towel at shoulder height and stretch it out sideways. Make sure that the towel is smooth and flat.
One corer should be brought toward the other to a point about two-thirds of the width of the towel. Hold it there and continue to fold the second corner of the towel toward the first. This will create three distinct layers.
Pinch the folds and gently shake to distribute. Tuck the towel under your chin. Grasp the towel midpoint down its length, lift your chin, and then allow the top part of the towel to fall over the bottom half. You can also lay the towel on a flat surface to fold it into thirds.
Bundle your neatly folded towels and store then in your linen cabinet. If you don’t have a designated linen cabinet, then proper bathroom vanity organization is necessary for extra storage.

5 Creative Home Uses For String Lights

Seeing homes covered in string lights is one of our favorite things this time of year. It’s incredible how much magic a simple string of white lights can have. You can always keep things simple but if you’re looking to amp up your holiday lighting, we’re going to show you how to turn string lights into a kitchen sink window decoration, amazing nightstand accessory, and more. Here are five of our favorite creative home uses for string lights during the holidays.

1. Let There Be Light In The Kitchen

There aren’t many kitchen island ideas that include string lights, and that’s really a shame. At weddings and special events, arching string lights over tables as a source of light is very common. So we thought, “Why can’t we do that over a kitchen island?” While swinging this look yearlong might be a struggle, we knew it was the perfect idea for the holidays. For a little extra light, go for globe string lights, which are larger than your typical mini string lights. If light isn’t a concern, icicle lights are a great option for over or around the kitchen island.

2. A Kitchen Sink Window Decoration That Makes The Season Bright

If we’re being honest, the holidays aren’t all fun and games. There’s lots of work to be done, and lots of dishes to be cleaned. That might be why we especially love the idea of using string lights as a kitchen sink window decoration. It’s a great way to dress up your kitchen sink area and brighten the mood while scrubbing baking trays.

3. Give The Bedroom A Touch Of Twinkle

If you have a poster or canopy bed, hanging lights in the bedroom is easy. Just drape a strand over the top. If you have a traditional or farmhouse bed you can still add a touch of twinkle with battery-powered dewdrop lights. Dewdrop lights, or fairy lights, are very tiny, twinkling lights so they are great when you want string lights but also want to be subtle. You can even put them in a glass jar or lantern and use them as a nightstand accent light.

4. A Cheery Card Holder Lends A Festive Touch

Tacking Christmas cards up to a cork board is cute but clipping them to string lights is even more adorable. Using a strand of lights, create a zigzag pattern on a wall and then clip your cards along the strand. Use assorted color binder clips to add to the room’s color scheme or match with your holiday décor.

5. Festive String Light Garland Gets You In The Holiday Spirit

What says season’s greetings better than mixing string lights and garland? This amazing holiday hybrid exists, and it’s an easy DIY project. All you’ll need is shimmer lights, a garland of foliage (you can find this at craft shops), floral wire, and wire cutters. Cut your garland into smaller pieces to match the distance between each of the lights on your string. Using one continuous piece of wire, wrap the garland onto the string for the entire length. Seriously, how easy is that? Hang your creation on your fireplace mantle or anywhere you want to add some sparkle this season.