I’ve always been one to enjoy a new craft or recipe. I especially love it when I can replicate something for a much smaller price tag. Thanks to the Pottery Barn catalog, BHG (Better Homes & Garden) magazine & Roberts craftstore, I have enjoyed completeing a few little new projects…

First, the example from the  catalog:

 Please notice the price tag (I understand it’s just for the letters, but you can guesstimate what Pottery Barn would charge for the whole thing):

My replication (the lighting from the lamps make it look yellow…sorry) made for UNDER $4.00 TOTAL:

I am not the biggest fan of faux floral arrangements. I sometimes see those gaudy wreaths in crafts stores that have just way too much going on; what really amazes me is the price tag they think they can stick on some of those “creations.” *DISCLAIMER: this is not intended for all silk and faux floral arrangements, some can be quite tasteful. Anyway, I saw this fall wreath in the November BHG and wanted to try it out:

My attempt made for a TOTAL cost of $8.49:

Last, but not least, it’s not technically a “craft” project. I’ve always wanted individual soup tourines; I just love the personal touch they give to a dinner. I had to run into Roberts to grab something when I spotted these fall tourines on sale for 60% off. I “bridaled my passions” and didn’t give in. Later that night, I told Steven about them and with his permission called the store and had two pumpkin tourines put on hold for me. We then had to run across town to complete the set, which makes 4 pumpkins and 4 acorns. We just used the tourines at our last dinner party and they were a hit (probably the most with me). What confirmed my purchase (although I am not one to usually experience “Buyers’ Remorse”) was that Steven and I saw the SAME tourines at Gardner Village for $1.00 MORE than the ORIGINAL price!

Acorn with lid on:

Pumpkin with lid off:

The almost finished table: