PAINTED FURNITURE

Refresh patio furniture with a coat of paint. Coat wicker pieces with a primer, then add a coat of exterior latex paint. When dry, mark off an argyle pattern using a paper diamond template and painter's tape. Paint the pattern in a contrasting hue, such as the pretty periwinkle blue used here. Hand-paint intersecting lines using a long straightedge for a guide.

DECORATE WITH QUILTS

Show off your favorite quilts through out the house. Here, an 1880s appliqué quilt hangs on the wall. Another adds a shot of color draped over a white sofa.

FURNITURE MAKEOVERS

 Transform old furniture with a coat of paint and a simple decorative treatment. Here, a non-descript secretary's desk becomes a classy writing desk with stenciled details. A leaf-and-berry pattern decorates the drawer panels and bronze upholstery tacks enhance the legs.