Monthly Archives: March 2014

Social media ramp up

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With less than three weeks to go until we move into the house, we’re in marketing overdrive. Le Manoir’s Facebook and Pinterest accounts are now live and I’m adding material to them every day.

Pinterest is an excellent source of inspiration… from practical interior design insights to practical ‘how to’ craft ideas. For example, if you need a reminder on how to under stitch a neckline, simply search that term and you will find helpful photos linking back to original blog posts containing step-by-step instructions. If you love a cushion or headboard featured on a Pinterest board, odds are you will be able to click through and find out where to buy it (or the fabric to make your own).

Below are snapshots of Le Manoir’s Pinterest account which has boards on sewing, interiors, crafty spaces, gardens, etc.:

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Which social media platforms do you use to gather home ideas and inspiration? Are there bloggers you follow regularly? I know I couldn’t live without my daily fix of Pinterest and Houzz. SCH

Latest auction buys and flea market finds

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We’re nearing the end of our auction buying spree in the UK; next month we will be in France setting up the house (although no doubt on the look out for quirky furniture at one of the local brocantes). The other more practical reason is that the garage is close to capacity! Still, there have been a few great buys recently…

Take these cast iron tables (and chair) which have been on the hit list for months. We found one lonely table at our weekly auction (£3) and another table with one chair at the less frequent village auction (£25). So now I need to find a job lot of chairs without tables… (that’s half the fun).

Other finds include a box of tools for re-upholstery (see below), a glass table with unusual brass bamboo legs from a local charity that reconditions furniture for sale to the public, as well as a pair of old prints in wooden frames. Unfortunately, I missed out on a box of vintage sewing patterns and ‘how to sew’ books that would have looked great in the Craft Room at Le Manoir. Never mind – there’s always next week! SCH

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