Creating a Shabby Chic Room

To give a room an old fashioned Shabby Chic appeal start out with a blank slate. Remove everything from the room including wall hangings and light fixtures. Clean your walls, and while you're at it, you might as well clean the carpet or floor.

The first thing you should do is pick your wall color. Softer colors work best in small spaces and will give the room a cozy cottage feel. You may also want to consider adding white washed wainscotting to give the room a vintage look.

Measure windows, wall and floor space. Jot down the measurements and also make note of the types of items you wish to bring into the mix. Dress up windows with white wood mini-blinds or hang lace, cotton or sheers.

Give walls that cozy cottage feel by hanging framed needlepoint and artwork with homespun charm. Think of a French Provencal farmhouse when selecting items of artwork.

Add shabby chic furniture or furniture that has worn look. You can even take items you already have and paint them white. Make sure you sand wooden pieces to give them a distressed finish.

Don't forget the lighting. Look for lamps that are white washed and have soft colored large shades. Lamp shades with delicate patterns of roses or other flowers add an old vintage feel. Consider adding a white washed  chandelier or even white washed candle holders for that extra touch.

Finish the room by adding little details that add a vintage personality and a homey feel. Display white washed picture frames of grandma and grandpa when they were children. Add a porcelain vase with fresh or dried flowers, cross-stitched or patchwork pillows, and an old knited afghan grandma may have made. For more authenticity, consider purchasing knick-knacks from and antique market.