When the Geesamans retired an aboveground pool, a barren circle of sand remained. Carolynn visualized a firepit ringed with cobblestones, but their modest budget halted that idea. However, her husband saw an opportunity at his workplace to turn trash

The popularity of vintage collectibles follows fashions like almost everything else, but you can hone your search through the thousands of items up for grabs at even the biggest sale by zeroing in on knockout pieces that will stand the test of time.

1 Choose a bamboo area rug that is large enough to serve as a backdrop for a bed and two nightstands. The Kassebaums found a design that features old-world lettering reminiscent of a sampler pattern. 2 Gather wide rough-hewn boards and assemble a fra

1. Maintain a low profile. Begin by centering a personality-packed furnishing that acts as a showpiece. Laura favors an antique dry sink she bought at an auction. 2. Go with the grain. Emphasize an aged wood theme by arranging treenware throughout th

Yadira La Brada is infatuated with design. A vintage enthusiast who loves treasure hunting at local thrift stores, flea markets and estate sales, Yadira takes delight in decorating—and redecorating—her home. “I change my decor out every two to three

Cresson and Beverly Wiker have nothing against open floor plans. When the couple decided to relocate from Iowa to Bella Vista, Arkansas, in 2002, however, they knew the popular house layout wasn't the right fit for them. They had just retired and had

The Ozarks hold a mystique. Picturesque peaks and luminous lakes attract visitors to this popular destination, and Missouri natives Laura and David Kassebaum are no exception. More than 20 years ago, they first explored the region as tourists and soo

Suspend antique kitchen tools from twine over floraledged plates. The ebb and flow of the changing seasons brings forth a different rhythm in summer, as rigid schedules go by the wayside. The sun-filled days are long, and decorators have an urge to c

Follow Carolynn Geesaman's lead and overhaul a side yard into an eye-catching spot that calls to be explored. Replace a fence gate with an arbor and train vines into a passageway. Extend decorating space with wide flower beds edged in stone, well sui

Learn more about Country Sampler's history and remember the 2000s in the Autumn 2024 issue—a series that will continue throughout the year. How better to celebrate a milestone than to reflect on the journey? As Country Sampler commemorates its 40th a

Did you know you can find inventive country decorating ideas and tips on our website? Visit CountrySampler.com and click on Decorating in the top bar, then select Downloads & Projects in the menu to browse current and past projects. Or, type CountryS

Country has always drawn inspiration from rural life, and farm animals like roosters and sheep are traditions. With the surge in exterior decorating in the 1990s, the goose took on new life. Erika Gross of Plymouth, Ohio, remembers this well. “My gra

The fall and winter holiday festivities are now behind us, and it's time to shift our creative energies to outdoor parties. Spring and summer celebrations-from Mother's Day and Father's Day to Memorial Day and Fourth of July-bring welcome opportuniti

Develop a presidential theme by repeating motifs throughout an arrangement. Stack a petite stepback cupboard atop a dresser, and drape linens on open cabinet doors. Fill shelves with books, pantry boxes, framed images and other items in varied shapes

When Lisa Lucas studied education, she pictured herself teaching grade-schoolers to sketch, paint and sculpt. But a change of heart redirected her toward instructing math, which was a natural fit for her spatial reasoning skills and focus on pattern.

ONE MOMENT, you're casually browsing a shop or sale with your attention divided between conversing with your companion and glancing across the products, but then you stop in your tracks as your favorite collectible comes into view. The joy that follo

Keeping garden tools and supplies organized and handy can be a challenge if you don't have a dedicated outbuilding such as a shed or greenhouse on your property. The good news is that, an out-of-the-way corner or a small area in a garage or on a cove

A primitive dry sink acts as the foundation of an expressive scene with metalsmith touches in the dining room. To recreate this classic look in your home, reflect on Laura's ideas. Anchor your grouping with a sturdy low cabinet such as a dry sink, ch

As wildlife leaps into activity, the sun's rays brighten and the earth prompts flowers to awaken, bring some of that boisterous outdoor energy into your decorating. Country Sampler stylist Carolynn Geesaman refreshes her home with thrifted treasures