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Does Lavender Help you Sleep? (Yes, Here’s Why)

June 13, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Those who suffer from even the occasional bout of insomnia will know that the inability to fall and stay asleep is more than just an inconvenience, making you tired and writing off your ability to function at your best the next day.

Having insomnia is a stressful situation in itself, often causing high levels of anxiety. 

Ironic considering that if you are not too hot, or too cold, and don’t have any discomfort, then stress and anxiety are likely to be the cause of your inability to fall and stay asleep in the first place.

The problem with anxiety is that it manifests in two ways.

Firstly, your brain offers you an impressively creative array of negative thoughts and your darkest fears at 3 a.m. while simultaneously reminding you of how little time there is left to sleep before it’s time to get up again.

Your body then “helpfully” responds by giving you copious amounts of adrenaline, norepinephrine, and cortisol, which would be helpful if you found yourself confronted by a lion with an attitude problem, but not so helpful when you are trying to relax enough to drop off to sleep.

Unfortunately, these physical effects, even if you could calm your brain down into a mere, mild state of panic, can take some time to wear off.

And as someone who suffered from severe insomnia a couple of years ago, over several months, I know it feels to be in that situation.

My best advice would be not to let it get to you. If you worry about it, it’s got you. Once you let it go and stop caring whether you sleep of not your peace will return and you’ll sleep.

And if you are struggling, I highly recommend Sleepio. It isn’t free but my insomnia was bad enough for me to qualify for a free course here in the UK. I found it really helpful, and it’s definitely worth asking your health care provider about it.

So what else can you do to help yourself feel calm.

What can you do to calm yourself down?

It goes without saying that you should turn your room into a calm, relaxed, uncluttered, sleep optimized environment.

You should get yourself acquainted with, and sync, your circadian rhythm (your biological clock that every 24-hours, allocates you with a sleep time-slot, followed by a wide-awake time-slot) and your homeostatic sleep drive (natural pressure to sleep after being awake too long).

You should get f.lux for your computer.

You could try a soothing drink of chamomile tea, and you should find ways to relax and unwind well before bed.

Used for centuries to treat various ailments from wound healing to headaches, lavender is also well-known for its soothing and calming properties.

The first documented evidence comes from a Greek physician named Dioscorides, who wrote a 5-volume encyclopedia about herbal medicine in 50-70AD.

The good news is that a number of small studies have shown lavender to be clinically effective in reducing anxiety and insomnia.

A 2015 study, on the effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality and anxiety of 60 patients with coronary artery disease, showed a statistically significant difference from the control group, in favor of an intervention group treated with a 2% inhalation of lavender essential oil.

The study concluded that lavender oil was found to increase the quality of sleep and reduce levels of anxiety in patients with coronary artery disease. 

There are a number of studies suggesting lavender may be helpful in reducing pain too. 

A 2012 study into the effectiveness of lavender essential oil in the treatment of migraine headaches, found inhalation of lavender essential oil to be, again, of statistically significant benefit in the acute management of migraine headaches.

Although all the studies, so far, are small, the sedative and soothing effects of lavender are likely to be beneficial and with the exception of pregnant women, who should avoid essential oils as a precaution, and those already on medications which may be adversely affected by its use, lavender is likely to be a safe and effective natural treatment to help you relax, and relieve anxiety so that you can finally fall asleep.

So how can you use lavender for sleep and anxiety?

There are a number of ways you can use lavender to help you unwind at night. I highly recommend This Works Lavender Sleep spray if you haven’t tried it. It smells divine.

You can use a lavender filled eye pillow.

Lavender essential oil, as with all essential oils should never be applied to the skin undiluted or taken internally, but you can add 2-3 drops onto a cotton ball or muslin cloth and place it under your pillow.

Alternatively, you can use our free recipe to make your own.

Filed Under: Home Décor

A Stress-Free Guide to the Best Whole House Air Purifiers 2022

June 6, 2020 by Comfy Zen 2 Comments

As we all know, plants act as air filters, cleaning the air around them. But with so many of us living in urban environments, there’s isn’t much nature around. Pollution is on the rise, and it simply isn’t enough to open a window. So the best way to get clean air in your home is with a whole-house air purifier.

There are tons on the market to choose from, so we’ve done the hard work for you and narrowed our research down to the top 3 recommendations for the best whole-house air purifier on the market today.

The air purifiers we’ll be looking at in this guide, all cover areas greater than 1,000 Square feet.

If you live in an open plan or a single-story home, you should opt for a large capacity whole-house air purifier. For two-story (or more) homes or you may be better off choosing an air purifier to cover each floor.

If you are not sure of the size of your home it’s easy to measure the length x the width of each room and add them together.

Our Reviews of the Best Whole House Air Purifiers

Editor’s Award Brand Click Image to Read review
Best Large Capacity Air Purifier [up to 3,000 Sqft] GreenTech Environmental pureAir 3000
Best for Mold and Bacteria [1,100 Sqft] Alen BreatheSmart Classic Large Room Air Purifier
Best Ultra-Fine Particle Eliminator [1,125 Sqft] IQAir GC MultiGas Air Purifier – Medical-Grade

Best Large Capacity Air Purifier [up to 3,000 Sqft]: GreenTech Environmental pureAir 3000

GreenTech Environmental pureAir 3000

This air purifier is nothing short of fantastic. It doesn’t just freshen up all the air in your home, it filters the living daylights out of it.

Oh, and did you know, it even cleans surfaces too? It’s practically magic.

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And here’s how it does it:

Firstly, Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) technology works by producing a plasma that swiftly breaks down all those nasties from pollen, odors, mold, (including active mold spores in the air), and bacteria, to other pollutants, reducing noticeable pollution in just 15 minutes and dangerous pathogens by over 99% in 24 hours.

PureAir produces negative ions. These cause particles of dust and bacteria to stick together in clumps heavy enough to fall to the floor preventing them from recirculating back into the air.

This is much better than just having one giant filter that clogs up.

PureAir fully also uses advanced oxidation – customized ozone to break apart, and destroy VOCs or Volatile Organic Compounds to give it its full title.

VOCs are particularly nasty little compounds that at the drop of a hat can turn into vapers and gasses. They include such horrors as benzene, formaldehyde, ethylene glycol, methylene chloride, and terpenes to name but a few.

You don’t want that stuff building up. And it does build up.

You’ll find it sneakily emitting itself from paints and varnishes, carpet, vinyl flooring and composite wood, furniture, foam, upholstery and fabrics, cleaning products, laundry detergents, dishwasher detergents and disinfectants, air fresheners, cosmetics and aerosol sprays, hobby supplies, adhesives, permanent markers, smoking, dry cleaning, and cooking.

That’s a depressingly long list, isn’t it?

Short-term effects include eye nose and throat irritation, headaches, allergic skin reactions, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness but in the long term, these chemicals are toxic and may cause cancer and damage to the liver, kidney, and central nervous system. If you’ve read our ethanol fireplace guide, you’ll know why we recommend an ethanol fireplace over a wood-burning, stove any day).

Finally, any magnetized particles leftover from the ionization process are caught by a clever electrostatic filter and this keeps the pureAir 3000 clean.

So there you have it, no more pollen, mold, mildew, bacteria, viruses, odors, and dangerous pathogens in your home.

GreenTech Environmental pureAir 3000 – features

Buying Factors to Consider

If your home comes up smaller than 3,000 square feet, don’t worry the purifier has scaleable settings that allow you to select the size of your space by square feet and then set the purifier to that level. That means you won’t overdo it.

The pureAir 3000 is pretty quiet to run – similar to an ordinary desktop fan. You may notice an ozone odor if you get right up close to the unit while it’s running. This is normal but you should not smell it in your room. If you do, you have set it too high and you should simply turn the purifier settings down.

The pureAir 3000 comes with easy-to-understand instructions on set up, use, and maintenance. It isn’t cheap but for your dollar, it’s well worth the investment.

Best for Mold and Bacteria [1,100 Sqft]: Alen BreatheSmart Classic Large Room Air Purifier

Alen BreatheSmart Classic Large Room Air Purifier

Stylish isn’t really a word you’d associate with an air purifier.

But this remarkably attractive air purifier, comes in a dazzling choice of 12 different veneer finishes, to blend in beautifully with your home decor.

This one isn’t just all about the looks though – it’s smart too.

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It was designed by NASA airflow engineers!

Proven to help with allergies and asthma, it eliminates pollen, and dust, as well as odors, and fumes, including all pet and household odors.

And if that wasn’t enough to impress, its HEPA silver filter also kills airborne mold spores, bacteria, germs, fungi, and even viruses including the flu!

How does it do that?

The Alen BreatheSmart Classic features an ozone-free ionizer.

The ionizer produces negative ions that clump airborne particles together – making them easier to trap in the high capacity True HEPA layer filter – effectively removing 99.97% of all airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns.

Just imagine – that’s about 56 times smaller than human hair.

What’s more, smart sensors automatically adjust to your environment, and LED light indicators to give you real-time air quality readings of the surrounding air: Blue indicates excellent air quality, orange equals fair, and red indicates poor air quality.

Poor quality air is pulled in through the side chambers to the HEPA layer filters which offer four layers of filtration, and clean air then flows out through the top.

The sensor will adjust the speed of the fan according to the particle level, cleaning the air more quickly when the particle level is high. You’ll be able to watch the sensor lights change as your purifier gets to work.

What We Like:

  • Four Layers of Filtration | A pre-filter traps pet hair and larger particles. A silver filter, traps and kills bacteria and mold spores. A True HEPA Pure layer, filters out dust, dust mites, dirt, pollen, and other airborne allergens. And finally, a carbon layer absorbs odors.
  • LED Light Indicators |These automatically adjust to your environment and give you real-time readings of the quality of your surrounding air.
  • Smart Sensor | The sensor automatically adjusts the speed of the fan according to the air quality.
  • Soothingly Quiet | The turbofan has a frequency called pink noise which is lower in tone than white noise. It’s very soothing – and great for anyone who likes to sleep with white noise.

Best Ultra-Fine Particle Eliminator [1,125 Sqft]: IQAir GC MultiGas Air Purifier – Medical-Grade

IQAir GC MultiGas Air Purifier -Medical-Grade

This Medical-Grade Air purifier is capable of eliminating 99% of all particles up to 0.3 microns with ease.

But that’s not the most impressive part. The HyperHEPA filter will also eliminate more than 95% of ultra-fine particles down to the minutest, 0.003 microns!

Viruses, tobacco smoke, and diesel all produce ultrafine particles – and you just don’t want to breathe any of that stuff in.

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Made in Switzerland and powered with the equivalent chemical removing abilities of more than 100 gas masks, this unit features the highest standard of filtration.

Recommended for homes with higher levels of gas and odor pollution such as in-home cigarette smoke, the unit features 12 Lbs of activated carbon and alumina pellets impregnated with potassium permanganate to remove gasses and chemicals including formaldehyde from the air.

What’s more, the unit (and its filter media) are 100% sealed – so no unfiltered air will escape uncleaned, and once filtered, clean air is distributed evenly (320 degrees).

What We Like:

  • Highest Standard of Filtration | This unit features the highest standard of filtration, including alumina pellets impregnated with potassium permanganate to remove formaldehyde from the air.
  • Powerful Fan | Delivers up to 300 CFM of air.
  • Remote Controlled | With programmable options, filter-life monitoring, and a color-coded light indicator to show you when the filter needs changing.

Buying Factors to Consider:

It’s not the cheapest option. But it does have a lot to offer. The HyperHEPA filter will eliminate more than 95% of ultra-fine particles down to 0.003 microns.

And it’s worth remembering that approximately 90% of all airborne particles are ultrafine. These ultrafine have been linked to heart attacks, strokes, asthma, and even cancer.

Filed Under: Home Furnishings

Living Room Lighting Ideas for Different Tastes

June 4, 2020 by Patricia Clark Leave a Comment

Living Rooms Are for Living In

Choosing the right ways to light your living room really is important. After all, the living room is an important multi-use space.

It’s probably one of the largest rooms in your home, it’s a great gathering place for family and friends, and it’s likely also one of the most-used rooms in your home. For all these reasons (and more), I understand why you really want to get the lighting right!

It’s always good to be open to some new ideas and creative options as far as lighting goes. And lighting your living room can be a new and fun opportunity to tackle.

From my many years of experience doing interior design, there aren’t many things more exciting to me than approaching a room as a blank canvas upon which to create some art and inspiration!

Bringing Layers of Light to Your Living Room

When it comes to transforming any room – many people start by placing some large, ambient lighting in the center of the room, and then try to figure out how to add lighting accents around the perimeter.

While that may be a common approach, it isn’t necessarily the best approach. Personally, I like to start by deciding where I want to place smaller lighting accents and features, and then work my way towards inserting any central lighting fixtures – if I use them at all.

A good rule of thumb is to start by deciding how you use the room the most, or how you want to use the room. Build some lighting anchor points around those functions, and then you can add lighting layers from there, as needed or desired. What might those layers include? Well, keep reading to learn more!

Some Bright Ideas for Living Room Lighting Inspiration

The best lighting for a living room will typically include a balance of ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. What’s the difference?

Ambient lighting is designed to bring a general level of light to the whole room.

Task lighting is meant to illuminate specific task or activity areas.

And accent lighting? It’s not there to generate light for the room, per se, but rather exists to highlight specific features of the room that you want people to notice.

Now that we’ve got those concepts established and have laid down a baseline of understanding around layered lighting, let’s look at some different types of living room lighting you might consider:

Overhead Lighting

I honestly believe that overhead lighting should be one of the last layers to consider, but since it’s probably the first thing many folks think of, I’m listing it here first.

When it comes to overhead lighting, your options are almost endless.

There are any number of ceiling light fixtures, pendants, or chandeliers you might consider.

Anyone can use an overhead light to simply illuminate a room.

I encourage you to choose an overhead light that can help to illuminate your own personality and taste, too!

Ceiling Fan Lights

I’ll be honest – I haven’t always been a fan of ceiling fan lights. I remember when pretty much every ceiling fan light was mounted in an unattractive globe which dangled awkwardly below the fan.

Having said that, I like the light options I’m now seeing in modern ceiling fans. You can find fans with built-in LED lights that don’t protrude below the fan, including some “smart” light options that can be operated by remote.

Ceiling fans certainly serve some useful purposes, and now their built-in lights can, too.

Task Lighting

Task lighting provides focused light for specific tasks like reading, crafting, playing a board game, or working on a puzzle.

Table lamps, desk lamps, and floor lamps are great additions for putting some extra light right where you need it.

And when it comes to task lighting, there are many options when it comes to sticking with a particular décor style or theme, from modern to contemporary to traditional.

Track Lighting

Track lighting is nice in that it can double as both ambient lighting and accent lighting, depending on how you want to use it.

You can use it to highlight a particular piece of artwork or decoration, and you can also opt to angle some of the track lights to illuminate other parts of the room in general.

You can swivel track lights to bring light into a dark corner, or can direct more light basically anywhere you want it.

And beyond the traditional track light format, there are also lots of recessed track lighting and recessed can light options you can consider, as well.

Arc Lamps

Don’t want to place a central light on the ceiling? Well, you’re certainly not limited to that.

An arc lamp is another way to provide a central light source for your room, with a creative flair.

These types of lamps tend to work best in contemporary settings, but you can mix and match them with your motif as you see fit.

Accent Lights

There are many lighting options for accenting specific room features, including what are known as traditional accent lights – light fixtures that are installed directly above pieces of artwork or specific architectural details you want to highlight.

Accent lights of this nature can include everything from picture lights, display lights, spotlights, and table lights.

LED bulbs are a good choice for lights of this nature, as they are generally safer to use over artwork and other light-sensitive pieces.

Sconces

Sconces are a particular type of accent lighting that is typically mounted on a wall.

These lights aren’t just meant to provide illumination for specific features; they’re also meant to make a statement in themselves.

Sconces come in a variety of styles, ranging from traditional to modern. They can be mounted either vertically or horizontally, and some sconces are really works of art in their own right.

Make Your Living Room Really Shine

Living rooms and dens are meant to be used — for gathering, for socializing, for enjoying specific activities, and sometimes just for relaxing.

Don’t leave your living room in the dark!

Use these tips to help light your way for you, your family, and your guests!

Looking for some other ways to add some style and panache to your living room, den, bedrooms, or other living spaces?

Head on over to the Home Décor + Living Collection at Jennifer Adams, where you can envision some more great possibilities for your home!

In the meantime, I hope you have fun creating the right lighting environment for your living room!

Filed Under: Home Décor

Best Ethanol Fireplaces: A Definitive Buying Guide 2022

June 4, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Not all of us have a real fireplace in our homes, and if you are tired of looking at an unrealistic one that doesn’t have any flames or if you don’t have a fireplace and you would really love one, then here’s what makes them such a good option:

  • They are ridiculously eco-friendly – In fact, they’re so eco-friendly that they are carbon neutral.
  • They are non-toxic  – They produce no smoke, odors, ash, or soot. All they produce is carbon dioxide and water and that’s carbon-neutral carbon dioxide.
  • They look natural – Because they produce real flames.
  • You can put one anywhere – You don’t need a chimney, flue, or gas/electricity supply.

There are so many on the market to choose from, so we’ve done all the hard work and research for you to help you choose an ethanol fireplace according to which type you need. From an initial 20-plus brands, we’ve narrowed our recommendations down to the top 8 best ones and have picked one for each category. Ultimately, if you don’t have a fireplace, we recommend the Anywhere Fireplace by Chelsea Model.

Top Choice: Anywhere Fireplace – Chelsea Model

This wall-mounted one is perfect if you just have a flat wall and no existing fireplace.

That’s the great thing about ethanol fireplaces, they’re ventless and don’t require a chimney.

That means you can easily hang it on almost any flat wall and you’ll have an instant fireplace with real flames.

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For looks, quality and price you can’t beat this one. It will create a beautiful warm and inviting focal point in any room and the stylish curved design creates a nice 3d effect that will give your fireplace a sense of depth. So it won’t look like you just hung a boring flat picture on your wall when it’s not lit.

Now let’s have a look at its heat output:

The Anywhere Fireplace produces between 4,000 and 8,500 BTU per hr.

The manufacturers state that it will heat a room up to 375 square feet – but just bear in mind that in reality, that’s not quite enough to heat a room fully by itself in winter.

That being said with will feel warm to sit by because it does produce feel flames. You will get natural flames that reach a height of approx 7″ – as real flames do. The flames dance just like any other real flames, so they will vary in height.

You can check our table to figure out how much of a difference this fireplace will actually make to heating your room.

What We Like:

  • Hang It Anywhere | It’s light and so easy to hang with simple easy-to-follow instructions and all fixings are provided. Just be sure to avoid wood or wallpapered walls. Because, you know, it’s a fire. It gets hot.
  • Soft Open Real Flame | You get a nice natural flame the height reaches approx 7″ as real flames do.
  • Durable Brushed Stainless Steel Construction |The brushed stainless steel gives it an elegant look without compromising its durability.
  • A Choice of Color Options | There’s a black or red option though we should point out they are not stainless steel, they are steel with a satin paint finish.

Cons:

To be honest this could be a pro as much as a con and keep in mind that this isn’t specific to this fireplace.

Bio-ethanol fireplaces, in general, have a low heat output compared to traditional fireplaces. So it’s not going to be effective as your only heat source but when you cozy up next to it you’ll be lovely and warm and it’s at least not going to overheat your room making you too uncomfortable to enjoy watching the flames.

Dimensions:

At 27.5 x 5 x 19 inches it’s not going to swamp your wall but it’s plenty big enough to make an impact and create a lovely focal point in your room.

Highly Recommend: Regal Flame Elite Lenox Ventless Bio Ethanol Recessed or Wall-Mounted Fireplace

This one doesn’t need to be recessed – it’s designed so it can just be hung directly on any wall.

But for maximum impact, the recessed look is the way to go – and the only requirement would be to create a shallow recess in your wall.

You don’t need an existing chimney or vent of any kind.

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If you do choose to hang it, you can hang this fireplace on almost any wall, just remember it will stand out from the wall by 5.7″.

Compared to our previous choice, the Elite Lenox is much more powerful. It easily produces 18,000 BTUs which will comfortably warm a room of 1200 sq. ft.

It runs on three 1.5-liter adjustable burners which produce a natural dancing flame of between 12 and 14 inches. The surround is made from a high-quality 430 stainless steel that won’t rust or corrode and it’s also stain-resistant.

What We Like:

  • No Installation Option | You can install/recess this fireplace but you don’t need to. Just remember it will stand out from the wall by 5.7″. You, of course, don’t need an existing chimney or vent of any kind.
  • Good Heat Output | Bio ethanol fireplaces are not generally a realistic option to replace your central heating. They give off a gentle heat and are more suitable for creating a realistic flame, as well as an instant decorative focal point without the hassle. However, with an output of 18,000 BTUs, it will easily warm a room of 1200 sq. ft.
  • Stainless Steel Construction | So it not only looks beautiful, it’s rust-resistant corrosion-resistant, and, of course, stain-resistant.

Cons:

At maximum capacity, the fuel will last approximately 4-6 hours (depending on the room temperature and climate). 

Ethanol fireplaces cost more to run than traditional fireplaces and because this option has more than one burner will be a little on the fuel-hungry side. You can see the cost estimates in the Bioethanol Fireplaces vs Traditional Fireplaces section below.

Also Great: Regal Flame Avon Ventless Indoor Outdoor Fire Pit

If you like the idea of a free-standing fireplace, one that can be admired 360°, or have an outdoor patio/space where you’d like to create a lovely focal point, or even if you have a traditional fireplace/hole-in-the-wall and no suitable chimney, vent or energy supply, then this one might just be for you.

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Its simple elegant and ultra-modern style certainly has that wow factor. It’ll create an instant impact and because it’s a tabletop or free-standing ethanol fireplace it will give you maximum versatility for where and how you want to place it.

Place it in an existing open fireplace and it will create an instant natural fire – especially great if your fireplace doesn’t have a suitable chimney, vent, or power supply.

Alternatively, you can place it outside, where it will create a cozy indoor feel to your outdoor space, making it a warm focal point for your patio or pool area.

And that’s what this one is all about – it’s more of a decorative piece than a source of serious heat. At 3,900 BTUs it’s not going to make much difference on a cold winter’s day, but it will give off a gentle warmth. You can get a good idea of how much heat it would give off by looking at the table below.

What we love about the Avon Ventless is that it comes with a tall safety glass panel on each side.

This helps control the flames and protect them from external wind movement.

What’s more, the glass is removable which will give you a lovely natural look if you are planning on placing it in an existing fireplace.

And lastly, the Avon Ventless comes complete with a snuffer/damper to safely put out the flame immediately.

What We Like:

  • Zero Installation required | Place it on any sturdy surface and you are good to go.
  • Stainless Steel | So it will stay looking good. It’s rust-resistant corrosion-resistant and, of course, stain-resistant.
  • Color Options | Prefer a black or white one to match your decor. These are not stainless steel, however, just painted steel.
  • Indoor/Outdoors | It’ll make a lovely focal point for your yard or pool area but equally, you can create a beautiful instant fireplace indoors with or without an existing fireplace or suitable wall to hang it on.

Cons:

It’s extremely versatile, you can place it on any stable table or floor but just remember it’s a real fire with glass sides.

Another Worthy Mention: Regal Flame 18″ Ethanol Fireplace Grate Log Set with Burner Insert

If you’d like to convert an existing traditional fireplace into a bioethanol fireplace there are a few nice options that are open to you.

The first one we will look at will be this attractive birch log burning grate set that comes complete with a burner insert.

One of the things we love about this kit is that it’s completely portable, you can lift it in and out of the fireplace very easily, which makes it very convenient for cleaning. And, if you wish, you can also move between rooms.

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The log grate is made from high-quality Stainless Steel which is durable, easy to clean, rustproof corrosion-resistant, and stain-resistant.

It comes with a set of 5 lightweight birch logs – designed specifically to fit in the grate. This means they are simple to assemble and will look natural.

The burner insert holds 1.5 liters of fuel, so the fire will burn for up to 6 hrs at full capacity.

Dimensions: 18″W x 4.7″D x 13.4″H

What We Like:

  • It’s Portable | You can lift it in and out of the fireplace very easily which makes it very convenient for cleaning.
  • Stainless Steel | Made from high-quality Stainless Steel so it’s durable, easy to clean, rustproof corrosion-resistant, and stain-resistant.
  • Logs | A set of 5 lightweight birch logs is included in the kit, designed specifically to fit in the grate

Cons:

Because the logs are set quite high over the burner you may have to turn up the setting by making sure the slot is open all the way and of course, the flames will look taller when burned at maximum capacity.

Compared to other burners the heat output of this fire is not too bad at 6,000 BTUs. However, like all bio ethanol fires, it’s not super hot. Check the table if you want to learn more about how much heat you will feel from this fireplace.

Also Great: Regal Flame Ethanol Fireplace Burner Insert 

This is another good option for converting a traditional fireplace into a bio ethanol one:

If you have an open fireplace without a suitable vent or chimney, or you simply don’t want the hassle and mess of setting up a traditional fire, or if you have a pit, chimenea or grate you can sink it into, you can create a stunning hassle-free real fire with the Regal Flame Insert.

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Although it can stand on any stable surface (the bottom doesn’t get hot), to get the maximum impact from an insert you’re going to want to sink it into a recess, grate, and maybe, if you want a more traditional look, add some ceramic pebbles or ceramic fire logs.

This one has a very sleek, understated, and minimalist style. This means the flames will create a stunning focal point for you – without the design getting in the way.

Though it’s worth pointing out that although the open flame look is more natural and attractive than having a glass panel in front of it, depending on where you want to put it, for example, if wind movement is likely to be an issue, you might be better off going with the Regal Flame Avon Indoor Outdoor Tabletop Fireplace featured above.

Dimensions: The 1.5-liter ethanol fireplace burner insert is 11.8W x 4.9D x 3.2H”

What We Like:

  • Built-in Damper/Snuffer | It features a slim metal panel that can be slid over the burner to safely put out the flames. Just use the damper tool, included, to close it.
  • Stainless Steel | It’s easy to clean and will always look good because it’s rustproof corrosion-resistant and stain-resistant.
  • Perfect for a Recess Surface | You are pretty much limited only by your imagination of how you want to use an insert. Fireplaces, pits, chimeneas, or a large bowl, etc are ideal for use with the Bio Ethanol Fireplace Burner Insert.
  • Versatile | It’s portable, suitable for a tabletop, or any already listed above, and can be used indoors or out. Just keep it away from flammable surfaces.
  • Good Capacity | The burner insert holds 1.5 liters of fuel, so the fire will burn for up to 6 hrs at full capacity.

Cons:

It looks good on its own but if you’re going to use it in an existing hole-in-the-wall fireplace and you haven’t got a grate to sink it into, you might want to consider the Ignis EBG1200 Grate Insert instead.

Also Great: Ignis EBG1200 Grate Insert

If you have an existing hole-in-the-wall fireplace and you don’t have a suitable chimney, vent, or even a fire grate, then the Ignis EBG1200 Grate Insert is another excellent solution to convert a traditional fireplace into a bioethanol one.

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The insert is available either with or without a grate but for instant impact, especially if you don’t have anything to sink a standard insert into, the grate burner really comes into its own as a stand-alone complete design.

Compared with other inserts out there, the 6,000 BTUs that this one puts out is pretty good. The burner holds 1.5 liters of fuel, so the fire will burn for up to 6 hrs at full capacity.

However, you should keep in mind, it’s not going to heat your room as much as a log burner or traditional real fire would.

If you want to get an idea of how much heat you’ll get from this fire see the table below.

That being said, if you have a large fireplace, and want some serious heat, there is an alternate, larger version that puts out a whopping 21,500 BTUs of heat and holds 8 liters of fuel. This is the one shown below.

Let’s take a look at its features.

What We Like:

  • Zero Installation | Its neat stand-alone design means no need to disguise the sides. Simply place it in your hole-in-the-wall fireplace and you’ll have an instant real fire in a sleek modern grate.
  • Built-in Damper/Snuffer | It features a metal panel that slides over the burner to instantly put out the flames and it comes with a damper tool to close the lid.
  • Stainless Steel Burner Insert | It’s easy to clean, rustproof, corrosion-resistant, and stain-resistant. The grate is good quality painted steel.
  • Good Capacity | The Ignis EBG1200 version holds 1.5 liters of fuel, so the fire will burn for up to 6 hrs at full capacity.

Budget pick: Regal Flame Indoor Outdoor Eden Ventless

If you’re looking for a cozy and decorative centerpiece for your coffee, dining or outdoor table, – something a little different and certainly more healthy than burning paraffin candles, the Regal Flame Eden Fire Bowl is the perfect choice.

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There’s something especially calming about watching real flames and the Eden Fire Bowl is perfect for creating a lovely ambiance in your home or outdoor space.

As you’d expect, it’s more of a decorative piece than a heat source. Having said that 2,000 BTU’s for its size is pretty good. If you’re wondering what 2,000 BTU’s feels like, you can get an idea by looking at the table below.

Dimensions: The Regal Flame Eden Fire Bowl is 6.3″ x 6.3″ x 10.4″.

Let’s take a look at its features:

What We Like:

  • Ideal For Repelling Mosquitos | Simply add 15 percent citronella oil to the bio ethanol fuel to keep those mosquitos at bay if you are using the fire bowl outside.
  • More Color Options | Good choice of color options to complement your decor. The black and the stainless steel options are shown but this bowl also comes in a vibrant green or blue as well.
  • Pebbles Included | Unlike others out there you don’t need to make any additional purchases to complete the look. The kit comes complete with little pebbles.
  • Damper Included |To immediately put out the flames, safely. Shown above.
  • Good Flame Hight | With an 8 – 12″ flame hight, just like any real fire, it looks impressive and will create a lovely cozy atmosphere.
  • Good Burn Time | For its size that is. It’ll burn for about 1 hr when filled to the maximum level.

Cons:

The Glass isn’t thin or poor quality by any means, but be careful not to knock it or it could break.

It’s a little fiddly to set it up. It’s best to add the pebbles after the glass is in place, you just need to take your time adding the pebbles so they don’t fall into the center well.

Check the latest price and color options for the Regal Flame Indoor Outdoor Eden Ventless on Amazon.

Fuel: Regal Flame Prime Ventless Bio Ethanol Fireplace Fuel

Regal Flame ethanol fuel comes in quantities of 3, 6, 9, 12, 24, 36, or 48-liter bottles.

It gives a nice, clean, odorless burn and produces a lovely soft orange dancing flame.

Buying in bulk is not only better value but it cuts down the hassle of re-ordering.

Check Price

The great thing about choosing a bio ethanol fireplace is that the only by-products it gives off are carbon dioxide and water.

It’s completely non-toxic so it goes without saying that you should only use ethanol fuel made specifically for these fireplaces.

Burning anything else could not only be extremely dangerous but could give off toxic fumes.

To give you an idea of how much burn time you’ll get, one bottle is going to burn for about 2 to 4 hrs depending on whether you use a higher or lower flame setting. Weather/air movement conditions will also affect the burn time

Ethanol Fireplaces vs. Traditional Fireplaces

If you love the idea of a traditional fireplace, but were wondering if it would be better to go for a bio ethanol fireplace instead, then let me clear up the pros and cons of each in this handy little comparison section.

Let’s start with appearance.

Appearance

Traditional fireplaces and log-burning stoves can look amazing. They’re natural-looking and produce a lot of heat. Let’s face it, if you like the look of a traditional fireplace then any other similar type of fireplace is just trying to emulate that look.

That said, they do a really good job of that. For example, you can place a burner insert such as the Regal Flame Slim 12″ Insert into a traditional masonry fireplace [click here to scroll to the review above].

The only downside to that is that you will need to disguise the appliance with ceramic fireproof logs or pebbles.

The Ignis EBG1200 Grate Insert comes with a grate included if you don’t have a grate to place an insert into. It will look neat and stylish but with a slightly more modern twist than the rustic look of a traditional fireplace, [click here to scroll to the review above].

The flames that a bioethanol fireplace produces are real and as such they give off a lovely soft orange dancing flame that varies in height from around 3-4″ to 7-12″.

There is, it has to be said, a difference between the fire that a bio ethanol fireplace produces and a traditional real fire in that the bio ethanol fire is emitted from a fairly narrow slot or reservoir.

This does have a tendency to flatten the flames somewhat and of course, limit the surface area and so decreasing the depth of the fire.

However, they tend to have a sleek modern, minimalist design, and as such the flames look natural in their setting.

So how do other types of fireplaces compete?

There’s no doubt that the newest gas fires, depending on how high-end you want to go, can look amazing and pretty natural. The logs or coal pieces are sometimes the only giveaway that the fire is not a natural rustic traditional one.

They do, however, tend to also lack the depth of tradition one and getting a truly authentic look comes with a high price tag.

Electric fireplaces are usually just projections of simulated flames on a backdrop with artificial logs or coals that are lit up from within. They can’t really compete with a real flame. If you want to spend a lot of money, however, then you can get a pretty good simulation of a real fire like this one.

Bio ethanol fireplaces cost much less and for your money, you get a real flame.

Noise

Unlike other types of fireplaces, there is no noise distraction such as the hissing of gas, crackling wood or coal or the sound of an electric heating fan whirling away.

Safety

However pleasant wood smoke smells, it has both short and long term serious health risks. Wood smoke is known to contain toxic compounds such as benzene, formaldehyde, acrolein, and PAHs. Older log-burning stoves in particular release toxic gases and microscopic particles. Many studies have linked these particle levels to health problems such as asthma and bronchitis, and even deaths from heart attacks, strokes, heart and lung disease. Newer models of wood burners should be EPA-certified, but even then EPA say “Today’s wood-burning appliances burn cleaner and produce less smoke inside and outside your home.” Note that’s not, no smoke. There is a list of safety precautions you should follow and you’ll have to be vigilant watching out for darker smoke, or a smoldering fire which is neither safe nor efficient and that’s just to name just two.

Gas fireplaces are generally cleaner burning than traditional or wood-burning fireplaces although they do run the risk of releasing poisonous carbon monoxide. Choosing a bio ethanol fireplace means you don’t have to worry about breathing in any airborne carcinogens. That’s because it doesn’t produce any smoke, ash, soot or any other toxins. What’s more, there are no odors. All it produces is carbon dioxide and water and that’s carbon neutral carbon dioxide.

Bio ethanol fires are non-toxic can’t say that enough.

Cost of Ownership

It is a little more costly to run a bio ethanol fireplace than a gas or electric one.

However, you don’t need any gas or electrical hookups and what’s more: At the end of the month, you’re not going to be shocked by your gas and electricity bill.

Because the fuel comes in liter bottles there are no hidden costs. This means you can see just how much you are using and in fact, one bottle of ethanol fuel will last on average between 2 – 4 hours depending on the flame setting and any external conditions such as wind movement, etc.

Of course, with bio-ethanol fireplaces, no chimneys or vents are required either which cuts down on a lot of hassle.

And you’ve got to consider how much expense this will save you from not having to spend any extra money on setting up a fireplace.

With a bio-ethanol fireplace, you just have the cost of buying the fireplace and its fuel.

Environmental Impact

Fossil fuel fireplaces such as those that use oil, coal, and gas, use non-renewable energy and as such, they have a significant detrimental effect on air pollution, health and the environment in general.

Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces can use a renewable energy source, however, you need to make sure that the wood you use is specifically grown for firewood and is not a product of deforestation.

Even if you use firewood from a renewable source, however, it still will be a significant source of local air pollution, negatively impacting the health of yourself and those around you, as well as the local ecosystem – if you do go for a wood-burning stove you’ll definitely need a good air purifier.

If you’re concerned about looking after our beautiful planet, then a bio-ethanol fireplace is your best choice. They are completely carbon neutral as explained in the previous section and of course, they are non-toxic so a bio-ethanol fireplace will look after your health.

Tabletop Fireplaces vs. Wall Mount Fireplaces

If you are looking to create a cozy focal point in your living space, wall-mount ones look more traditional than tabletop ones.

They are just more natural-looking and simply look like a really good contemporary fireplace. You are also not as likely to trip over them as they’re up on the wall and out of the way so in that respect they are way safer.

You’re not going to be able to move a wall mount one to an outdoor area or between rooms.

Well, you can but only where you have fixings ready and of course, you’d still see the fixings on the wall where you left them. So if you want maximum versatility you might consider a tabletop one.

That said, if you change your living space around you can still change your mind about where you want to hang your wall-mount fireplace. Just remember that you can hang it on any wall, but just be sure to avoid wood or wallpapered walls. Because, you know, it’s a fire. It gets hot.

Tabletop ones are really out there in terms of style and versatility. They are viewable 360 degrees. Which means you, in effect have a double-sided fireplace.

Tabletop ones are suitable for patio, yard, or pool areas and can be placed on any stable surface. They make a lovely decorative focal point for outdoor dining. And they are super cozy to sit by outside on a not-so-warm evening.

Do Bio Ethanol Fireplaces Produce Heat?

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. You can think of them as “heat units”.

We will take, for example, an average 12 feet x 18 feet room with a 10 feet high ceiling and average insulation. For the desired temperature of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit with no other heating source, here is roughly what you would need in BTU for each climate zone:

CLIMATE ZONE 1 7,000 BTU per hr
CLIMATE ZONE 2 8,000 BTU per hr
CLIMATE ZONE 3 9,300 BTU per hr
CLIMATE ZONE 4 10,000 BTU per hr
CLIMATE ZONE 5 12,000 BTU per hr

Don’t expect a bio-ethanol fireplace of any kind to be super hot but it will feel cozy and warm for anyone sitting by it.

Buying factors to Consider

If you’re undecided as to which type to go for, here is a little guide to help you choose.

Type

If you have an unused traditional fireplace, you can place an insert or insert with grate into the space thereby converting your existing fireplace into a healthy and environmentally friendly fireplace.

If you prefer a more modern, minimalist look, however, and don’t have an existing masonry fireplace but still want your living space to have a natural-looking focal point then a wall-mounted or recessed bio-ethanol fireplace would be ideal.

Larger freestanding or tabletop ones, on the whole, tend to look their best in an outdoor space or conservatory area.

Bioethanol fire bowls are great for indoor and outdoor dining tables and coffee tables etc. and shouldn’t be regarded as a fireplace but as more of a centerpiece.

All the best options are reviewed in detail in the sections above.

Material

Stainless Steel – Each of the fireplaces reviewed in the above sections comes with a stainless steel option. For durability and maintenance, you can’t really go wrong with stainless steel. It’s easy to clean, with a damp cloth. It’s rustproof, corrosion-resistant, stain-resistant, and even pretty much scratch-resistant.

Paint Finished Steel – The finish is durable and tough, not likely to stain, rust, corrode or scratch. However, if it does scratch the scratch will show up more because of the silver steel underneath.

Setup Requirements

You don’t need to install a chimney, vent, or any kind of power supply for a bio ethanol fireplace.

Recess and wall-mounted fireplaces do require some set-up. Recess ones, in particular, may require preparing a hole in the wall to sink the fireplace into. The wall mount ones don’t require much set-up they just need to be mounted onto fixings in the wall.

Tabletop fireplaces require no setup because they don’t need to be attached to anything. You just set them on a stable surface like a table or something. All you have to do is refill them now and then, just like the other bioethanol fireplaces, but with the tabletop ones it’s the only thing you could consider to be a kind of “setup.”

Heat Output

The heat output is generally low and they can rarely be relied on as your sole source of heat.

That said the Bio Flame Grate Kit which gives off 21,500 BTUs is pretty impressive heat-wise.

Alternatively, at 6,000 BTUs per Burner giving you a total of 24,000 BTUs the Xbeauty 66″ Ventless Built-in Recessed Fireplace will easily warm up your living space.

Most others, however, should be considered more as a decorative focal point.

Burn Time

Generally speaking the larger the burner capacity the longer and the hotter the fire will burn. For example, a 1.5 Liter burner will last up to 6 hours, whereas a smaller capacity one such as a 0.5 Liter burner will only last for up to 3 hrs.

Size

The tabletop ones don’t vary in size as much as the wall mount or recessed ones. That is because they tend to have a similar design, consisting of a rectangular burner encased in a base with glass on both the front and back. They often vary in size usually by only a few inches.

The recessed ones reviewed above have more variation in size. The larger the fireplace the more burners you get with it. They come in different shapes too. Some are long and narrow while some are more square-shaped, so there’s a good chance you find the right size to fit your wall.

Wall Mount ones also vary depending on their design. The one reviewed above is 27.5 x 5 x 19″ which doesn’t look too big or too small for its design.

Price

The tabletop, inserts, and fire bowls are inexpensive, coming in at well under the $100 mark. The Ethanol Fireplace Grate Log Set with Burner Insert costs around $200. The wall mount ones are in the next price bracket averaging around $400 and the recessed ones cost anywhere between $100 and $600. The most expensive one mentioned in this article is the Bio Flame Grate Kit. However, at 29.7” long, it is particularly big for its type and may be the best option to place in a larger traditional fireplace to gain maximum heat.

Accessories

You can dress your burners and inserts using decorative ceramic pebbles or logs which are specifically designed to withstand the heat of an ethanol fire. Either choice will give you a softer more natural look than the bare stainless steel top.

Let’s take a look at a few examples.

Pebbles

If you want a decorative clean modern look then pebbles are the way to go. The Regal Flame 24 Piece Set of Light Weight Ceramic Fiber Pebbles comes in 3 different shades. The black (shown) grey and white (shown).

They are easy to arrange and adding more or fewer will change the overall look. They are completely safe and do not produce any ash, fibers or residue into the air.

These pebbles measure 2.3 inches. But you can get larger or smaller sizes. The great thing about them is that they cool quickly.

Logs

If you prefer a more rustic look, there are a variety of realistic-looking ceramic logs.

The Moda Flame 9 PC Petite Ceramic Wood Fireplace Log Set below left includes 6 logs and 3 pine cones. They range in size from 4 inches to 9 inches. Alternatively, for a more burnt look, the Regal Flame 8 Piece Set below right includes 8 life-size logs ranging in size from 5.7 inches to 12.8 inches.

Care and Maintenance

They are pretty easy to set up and maintain and they come with clear easy-to-follow instructions.

They all have a fuel reservoir. Just make sure you never fill it to more than ¾ full and that the fire is off and the fuel reservoir has cooled down for 15 minutes before trying to add more fuel. And of course, thoroughly clean up anything you spill.

When you light the fuel use only an extended lighter.

It goes without saying that you should NOT allow children or pets near the fireplace when it’s burning and the fireplace and fuel should only be handled by adults.

Use only ethanol fuel made specifically for these fireplaces. Don’t try burning anything else it could be extremely dangerous not to mention highly toxic.

You can get it here on Amazon.

Filed Under: Home Furnishings

Easy Pom Pom Garland

May 23, 2020 by Comfy Zen 2 Comments

Let’s face it, no one wants to see a limp, straggly, uneven pom pom. That’s just gonna bring everyone down. Pom poms should be adorable, round, fluffy balls of fun that’ll brighten up the dullest of days – and there’s a little secret to getting them to fluff up perfectly…

The secret is all in the trimming.

Not convinced? Why not have a go – following the steps below.

It’s actually so easy and super cheap to make perfect, fully fluffed pom poms every time. And it’s super fast too.

No doubt you’ll have already had a go at wrapping yarn around two donut-shaped pieces of card, at some point.

And if you do have the patience to thread your yarn through the hole every time, the donut method (the one without the slit) will give you a nice round fluffy pom pom every time. It’s pretty time consuming though, and you do have to cut the yarn first so it’ll fit through the hole, and that means you can easily get yourself into a tangle.

Cutting a slot in the card makes things much easier and quicker, but it’s tricky to keep your yarn from slipping off the card when it gets too near the opening – and you kinda get a lopsided pom pom.

By far the quickest and easiest method is to use a flat, rectangular-shaped, piece of card. Any card will do, but a simple toilet roll, folded in half, turns out to be absolutely perfect for a 2″ pom pom – and that’s just right size for a pom pom garland.

I used DK yarn for my pom poms. It’s just what I had leftover from another project, but you can pretty much use any yarn you like.

Just remember – if you use a thicker yarn you won’t need to wrap it quite as many times as mentioned below. Just as long as it looks similar to the photo shown in step 3, your pom pom should be plump, round, fluffy, and totally adorable.

Ok so let’s get started.

Materials List

For a Pom Pom:

  • Yarn – DK, crochet, or any craft yarn
  • Empty toilet roll
  • 2 x 2″ card circles
  • Scissors

For the Garland:

  • Garden or craft string for threading your garland
  • A yarn needle to thread your string through your pom poms
  • Craft glue

How to Make an Easy Pom Pom Garland

Step 1

Gather your materials as listed above.

Step 2

Fold the toilet tissue roll in half and begin to wrap your yarn.

Step 3

Wrap your yarn 110 times around the card.

Step 4

Gently slide the yarn off the card.

Step 5

Place your bundle on a (approx) 10″ length of yarn.

Step 6

Tie a tight double knot. (you may need to borrow a friend’s finger)

Step 7

Cut through all your loops.

Step 8

Your pom pom will look pretty uneven, but don’t panic – all is well…

Step 9

Place your pom pom centrally, between your card templates to make a pom pom burger. And trim around the edge.

Now turn your pom pom 90 degrees and repeat this process.

Step 10

Give your pom pom a haircut. Trimming by eye until you a you are happy there are no more sticky out bits.

Step 11

Admire your perfectly fluffy, round pom pom.

For the Garland:

If you are threading your pom poms to make a garland. You can use any kind of craft string as long as it can be threaded through a yarn needle.

Tips:

Make sure you thread your string through the center of your pom pom. You should be able to feel the hole with your fingers.

Grip your pom pom tightly as you thread, to keep any yarn strands from coming loose.

Trim any extra sticky out bits and add a spot of craft glue to your string (near the center of your pom poms) to keep your pom poms in place.

Filed Under: Crafts

Elevate Your Living Space with the Best Womb Chair Replica

May 8, 2020 by Comfy Zen 4 Comments

Best Womb Chair Replica
Womb Chair and Ottoman from Eternity Modern

The womb chair is a timeless design that has been a popular choice for modern interiors since its inception in the 1940s. Designed by Eero Saarinen, this iconic chair is known for its comfortable, womb-like shape and its ability to adapt to the body’s natural curves.

The inspiration behind the design was architect, furniture, and interior designer, Florence Knoll. She asked Saarinen to design her a chair that would feel, “like a basket full of pillows . . . something I can curl up in.”

The result, after two years and many failed attempts to design a chair “that would work” – one that would feel as comfortable whichever way one sat in it, was the elegantly curved, (originally titled), Model No.70.

Minimalist, and organic in form, it was described by Saarinen as “a cup-like shell into which you can curl up and pull up your legs.” It was so comforting to sit in and relax, both physically and psychologically, it soon became affectionately known as the womb chair.

But with its high price tag, the original womb chair is not always within reach for everyone. That’s where womb chair replicas come in.

In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best womb chair replicas on the market, so you can get the iconic look without breaking the bank.

Our Top Pick
Kardiel Womb Chair and Ottoman

Kardiel.com
Read More
Also Fabulous
Womb Chair and Ottoman
*Custom Made

Eternity Modern
Read More
Best Budget Buy
Danish Cashmere Wool Womb Chair

Interior Icons
Read More

Also in this guide.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

Top Pick

Kardiel Womb Chair & Ottoman

This one wins our top pick by a long way, here’s why…

Kardiel’s womb chair and ottoman are a testament to the high quality of workmanship that goes into their reproduction of Eero Saarinen’s iconic design.

They are a US-based company owned and run by four, Modernism-obsessed family members who have a passion for good design, (Debbie, Jason, Brando, and John).

Collaborating with leading furniture designers from around the globe, they hand-source manufacturers to produce small-scale original designs, and they occasionally, remanufacture iconic, mid-century modern pieces of furniture.

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One reason we recommend choosing an iconic piece such as this, from an independent company, rather than from Amazon, is that you will inevitably have more fabric choices and color options. And you do want choice if you are investing in a statement piece that will take pride of place in your living space for years to come.

Womb chairs, even reproduction womb chairs, are admittedly not cheap, but that’s because they are not cheap to reproduce.

They are, however, still several thousand dollars cheaper than the official chair! Offering those of us who love and appreciate the cool, classic, mid-century modern design of this chair, a much more affordable option to cater to a smaller budget than the official version would ever accommodate.

With the Kardiel chair and ottoman, you get a good choice of fabrics as well as several color options. You can choose between indigenous boucle, cashmere tweed, or luxurious matte velvet.

We’ll now take a quick look at each of the fabric choices:

Kardiel Womb Chair & Ottoman shown in Blanc Boucle

Indigenous Boucle – With a weight of 590 grams per square meter, and scoring a very high Martindale rub count of 100,000, this stunning textured fabric is very on-trend and it’s just as durable as it is beautiful. The boucle fabric is made from 95% Polyester and 5% Acrylic.

Kardiel Womb Chair & Ottoman shown in Blanc Boucle

Cashmere Tweed – Upholstered in 50% cashmere wool and blended with 50% polyester Dacron synthetic fiber, the cashmere tweed option (below) combines all the quality and luxury of boucle fabric with the softness, durability – and indeed the practicality that Dracon provides. Just so you know, Dracon is actually synthetic silk.

Kardiel Womb Chair & Ottoman shown in Caribbean Cashmere Tweed

Matte Velvet– Additionally, the chair is available in fern, petrol, or merigold matte velvet. This is a heavy velvet made from polyester and cotton yarns which results in a high Martindale rub count of 100,000. This means it’s certified for heavy usage and it’s also fade and stain-resistant.

Whichever fabric you go for, each chair and ottoman is stunningly handmade including the neatly, cross edge-stitched, finish which gives the chair its distinctive handcrafted appearance.

The fiberglass shell is true to the original design and supports sturdy, well-made steel legs with adjustable feet, the chair comes with chromed steel legs or a black steel finish.

The modular multi-density foam cushions are detachable and adhere to all safety and fire regulations. Without, (we’d like to emphasize) any added chemicals.

And that’s the thing, Kadiel is a reputable company, their customer service is friendly and most importantly they are contactable.

They offer a lifetime warranty on bases, legs, and hardware, and a 3-year warranty on all fabrics, cushioning, and seams.

What We Like:

  • More fabric choices and color options – Because this one is from an independent company you get a much wider selection of fabric choices and colors.
  • High Quality – It’s a very well-made replica, nearly identical to the original design.

Chair Dimensions: 37.8″ (W) x 38.6″ x Height 35″

Ottoman Dimensions:  24.8″ (W) x 21.7″ x Height 18.9″

Also Fabulous

Plum Velvet

Custom Made Womb Chair and Ottoman by Eternity Modern

The thing we absolutely love about this chair – and that’s that it’s completely customizable.

This is a stunning new addition to our top-pick list. To sum it up it’s an exceptionally high-quality, faithful reproduction of the original Saarinen design.

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If you are choosing an accent chair, especially one that’s as iconic as the womb chair, you want it to be the perfect color in the perfect fabric choice -something that takes you to your happy place every time you look at it.

Eternity Modern custom makes each chair, especially for you. You can choose between the impressively wide range of fabric choices listed below, or you can choose to have a chair made, using your own fabric.

Here are your fabric choices:

Boucle wool, velvet, chenille, helios linen, Sunbrella fabric, aniline leather, and vintage.

Velvet-Ash Brown Option

The wide choice of fabric options makes the Eternity Modern chair our most practical option too.

For example, if your chair is likely to be exposed to sunlight for much of the day, you can opt for Sunbrella fabric.

If you’ve read our outdoor chaise lounges, guide, you’ll know how amazing this fabric is. But in brief, it’s highly UV-resistant so it’s not going to fade. It’s also water-repellent, breathable, and it’s super easy to clean.

Perfect for sunrooms or for homes with children and pets.

Cashmere wheat-Grey

And whereas most womb replicas only come in bouclé wool, this chair also comes in a rare, full aniline leather option too – aniline leather being the highest quality leather you can get. If you what to learn more about aniline leather, just check out our Barcelona replica guide.

So let’s take a look at the details.

The cushions are filled with highly-resilient, baby-friendly, urethane foam, and, of course, all materials on this chair are fire-retardant and non-toxic.

Aniline Black

And the shell is molded fiberglass just like the original, and it’s supported by black powder-coated steel legs.

What We Like:

  • Completely Customizable | You can have one made in your own fabric or choose from a wide choice of fabric and color options. Most notably Sunbrella fabric is perfect if your chair will be situated in a sunny location. Or even (a rare find) – a leather option.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Eternity Modern is a highly respected company, established in 2005, and specializing in high-quality mid-century modern furniture, and their womb chair is a testament to the exceptionally high standard of workmanship that goes into their pieces.

As we’ve already mentioned, these chairs are custom-made, so each one is made to order – that means there will inevitably be a few weeks’ wait. That said, this chair is, in our opinion, totally worth it.

Best Budget Buy

Danish Cashmere Wool Womb Chair and Ottoman

This is a very well-made option that is faithful to the original design.

…And it’s as affordable as you will find anywhere for one that remains true to the original design.

Check the Latest Price

Womb chairs are not cheap to reproduce, simply because they are replicating a chair that is, by nature, costly and labor-intensive to make. But the same is also true for other iconic chairs. So all things considered it’s a very affordable option for those who love the style but can’t justify the high price tag that usually comes with it.

What we love about this chair is that it’s still made with 100% Cashmere wool. You can see a close-up of the stitch above. It’s not going to be quite as thick and soft as the original, or even as thick and soft as the higher-quality reproductions.

But then the original doesn’t have super thick cushioning to start with. All the comfort of an original Saarinen is in the ergonomic shape of the chair rather than in the cushioning itself and it’s the design of the shell that cocoons and envelops the sitter to create the perfect place to relax.

Hand Stitched and upholstered in premium Cashmere wool over custom-formed foam cushions, the shell is fabricated from reinforced fiberglass – just as Saarinen designed all those years ago.

You can see the quality of stitching in this chair in the photo above.

Stainless-Steel legs with a polished chrome finish give strength and stability to the shell and they are constructed with the same materials as the original design.

Matching Womb Style Setee

What We Like:

  • Matching Womb Style Setee Available | Why not complete your look with this rare find?
  • Cashmere Fabric | The seat and ottoman are also piped in the same fabric.
  • Stainless-Steel Legs with Polished Chrome Finish | As per the original design.

Drawbacks:

  • It’s worth noting that you just get the chair with this option. Not the ottoman too, but then, that may be your preference anyway.

Frequently Asked Questions

How comfortable is a womb chair?

The womb chair is very comfortable to sit in. It was designed by Eero Saarinen at the request of architect, furniture, and interior designer, Florence Knoll who wanted a chair in which she could “sit in sideways or any other way I want” – a chair that would feel, “like a basket full of pillows . . . something I can curl up in.”

The organically curved, minimalist chair originally titled, Model No.70 was the result of many failed attempts to produce the perfect design.

When it finally made its debut, the chair was so comfortable and comforting to sit in, it became affectionately known as the womb chair.

What is the womb chair made of?

The main components of the womb chair are an underlying molded fiberglass shell covered with latex foam, supported by chrome-plated steel legs, and a u-shaped section that supports the underside of the chair and forms the back legs.

Foam-filled cushions are upholstered in hand-sewn tweed or bouclé wool/cashmere fabric.

What is Eero Saarinen famous for?

Eero Saarinen was a Finnish-American architect. He is most famous for designing Washington Dulles International Airport, the TWA Flight Center in New York, and the Gateway Arch, Washington.

He was also a furniture designer, famous for his tulip chairs and tables as well as the iconic womb chair.

When was the womb chair designed?

Although the womb chair looks very modern, it was in fact designed by Eero Saarinen in 1946 and officially launched in May 1948 at Knoll Associates’ New York showroom.

In conclusion, womb chair replicas are a great way to get the iconic look of the original at a more affordable price. When shopping for a replica, be sure to consider factors like materials, construction, and dimensions to ensure you get a high-quality product.

Lastly, if you’d like a free mid-century modern print, hop over to our free printable page.

Filed Under: Home Furnishings

The Best Candle Making Kit 2022

May 4, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Luxury Candle Making Kit by Scandinavian Candle Co. from Amazon

This is a simple guide to the best candle-making kit. It’s super fun and much easier than you’d think to make your own handmade scented candles when you use a kit. And the best thing about them is that they are all made from soy (or beeswax) – so not only will they give you a much cleaner, healthier burn than paraffin but you’ll also get a cleaner, purer scent throw.

To help you choose which kit is right for you, we’ve put together comprehensive reviews for the best candle-making kits on the market today. Our research showed that there were four clear winners.

Reviews for the Candle Making Kits We Picked

Editor’s Award Brand
Our Top Pick/ Best Over All Candle Making Kit
Soy Candle Making Kit for Adults by DIY Gift Kits
Alternative Top pick
Luxury Candle Making Kit by Scandinavian Candle Co.
Best Beeswax Candle Making Kit

Scented Candle Making Kit DIY Gift Set by YINUO LIGHT
Best for Colored Candles
Candle Making Kit by StorageMaid
Soy Candle Making Kit for Adults by DIY Gift Kits

Our Top Pick for the Best Candle Making Kit: Soy Candle Making Kit for Adults by DIY Gift Kits

This comprehensive 49-piece kit allows you to practice with a variety of different candle sizes.

The kit comes with two 8-oz tins, two 4-oz tins, as well as 10 tea light tins.

Check Price

This kit comes with three 100% therapeutic grade luxury oils: lavender, lemongrass, and cedarwood essential oil, which you can either use to make single-note scented candles or combine to make your own scent blends. And there are helpful recipes in the instruction booklet to get you started.

The kit is nicely packaged, having been designed to give to someone as a DIY gift. If you go for this kit for yourself, you can also bear it in mind as a future gift for someone else.

You get all the essentials to make your candles, including an 8-oz pack of soy wax, a melting pot, braided paper wicks, mounting stickers (to stick the wicks in place), clothespin wick holders, and well-designed labels for your tins.

You also get 2 color blocks in orange and burgundy so you can add color to your candles.

What We Like:

  • Three Therapeutic Grade Oils | Lavender, lemongrass, and cedarwood essential oil. The kit includes a recipe booklet so you can try different blends.
  • Includes Tea Light Tins | The kit comes with two 8-oz tins, two 4-oz tins a well as 10 tea light tins.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Unlike our alternative pick coming up next, this kit doesn’t come with a thermometer. But they’re very cheap to buy and aren’t strictly necessary.

Alternative Top pick: Luxury Candle Making Kit by Scandinavian Candle Co.

This Luxury Candle Making Kit by Scandinavian Candle Co. is another beautifully designed kit that would make a lovely DIY gift for someone.

That said, you will definitely want to keep one of these kits for yourself.

Check Price

The kit contains a generous three, 8 oz bags of natural soy wax, (our first choice only has one). However, you only get two fragrance oils. But they are the ever-popular basil & mandarin, and wood sage & sea salt – reminiscent of the gorgeous Jo Malone scent range.

This kit also comes with a thermometer, so you can check your wax is heated to 180 to 185 degrees recommended before adding your fragrance. You can, as you become more familiar with the process, also use your thermometer to experiment, for example, with the low temp method.

Also included are a 2 lb wax melting pitcher, 6 gold candle tins, cotton candle wicks, centering devices, glue dots, stirring sticks, and an instruction booklet.

Additionally, you get 2 high-end-looking fabric gift bags, and 12 designer labels. The kit also includes 6 warning labels, handy if you are selling or giving away your candles as gifts.

What We Like:

  • Kit Includes 24 oz of Soy Wax | In comparison, the DIY Gift Kits one only comes with one, 8 oz bag.
  • Two Blended Fragrances | Basil & mandarin, and wood sage & sea salt.
  • Two Fabric Gift Bags | And 12 high-end-looking labels.
  • Includes a Thermometer | A thermometer takes the guesswork out of the melting and cooling process.

Best Beeswax Candle Making Kit: Scented Candle Making Kit DIY Gift Set by YINUO LIGHT

If you’d like to try your hand at making beeswax candles, this is the kit you should choose.

For a start the kit comes with six adorable individually designed tins that you can reuse or repurpose when your candle has burnt down.

Check Price

You also get four 7 oz packs of pure organic beeswax, six fragrances, and six candle dye colors to complement each scent.

If you are wondering how beeswax candles compare to soy. They do have some advantages.

While both soy and beeswax are healthier, more clean-burning, and naturally last much longer than regular candles, beeswax candles last even longer than soy and are the least likely of any candle to cause allergies.

They also have a very faint (almost undetectable) honey scent of their own, making them the best choice if you don’t want to burn a scented candle.

As far as this kit goes, cotton wicks, glue dots, centering device droppers, a melting pitcher, as well as a thermometer, are all included in the kit so you have everything you need.

What We Like:

  • Four 7 oz Packs of Pure Organic Beeswax | Beeswax candles last even longer than soy and are the least likely of any candle to cause allergies.
  • Six Candle Dye Colors | The colors compliment the scents that come with the kit.
  • Six Pure Fragrances | The kit comes with rose, lemon, lavender, eucalyptus spearmint, and ocean.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Beeswax candles are very easy to make. They require a lower temperature (just above the melting point (66ºC – 70ºC) and you should let the candle cool slowly.

Best for Colored Candles: Candle Making Kit by StorageMaid

If you’d like to make some colorful soy candles, this is the kit for you.

It comes with 16 color blocks so you can experiment to get the perfect color blend.

And the kit comes with four 8 oz bags of soy so there’s plenty of wax to get you started.

Check Price

The four fragrances that come with the kit are clean cotton, coconut lime, cinnamon, and lavender.

You also get a melting pitcher, a thermometer, 2 round, and 2 square 8 oz candle tins, cotton candle wicks, centering devices, glue dots, stirring sticks, and an instruction booklet.

The kit comes complete with warning labels and even includes silicone finger protectors.

What We Like:

  • The Kit Includes 16 Color Blocks | So you can experiment to get the perfect color blend.
  • Includes Four fragrances | Clean cotton, coconut lime, cinnamon, and lavender.
  • Comes with a Thermometer | Not all kits include one.

Buying Factors to Consider:

It’s a good starter kit and a great option if you are making candles with children, they will love the strong colors you can get.

Unlike the other kits, this one doesn’t come with labels. But it’s a starter kit, as are all the kits we have featured here. Once you get into candle making you’ll want to design or make your own brand labels.

Nature’s Blossom Candle Making Supplies Kit

This is a lovely kit for making double wick candles.

Key Features:

  • Three scents: lavender, lemon, and chamomile.
  • 1.5 Lbs of soy wax.
  • Three wide 8 oz tins.
Check Price

3 Jar Kit

Blue Aurra DIY Candle Making Kit

This classy-looking kit will make three jar candles with lids.

Key Features:

  • 3 x 8 oz bags of soy wax
  • 3 dye blocks – blue, purple, and cinnamon.
  • 4 fragrances – lavender, ocean, and cinnamon.
Check Price

Soy Melts/Tarts Making Kit

This is a great little soy melts kit. It has everything you need to make soy melt snaps.

Key Features:

  • The kit comes with two scents but you can choose which combination of scents you prefer. Orange bliss & vanilla dreams are just one of the choices.
  • Scent refills are available.
  • Makes 36 wax melt snaps.
Check Price

Candle Making Accessories

12 Pcs Candle Tin Jars

The Scented Candle Making Kit DIY Gift Set by YINUO LIGHT featured above comes with similar tins. I think they are adorable so it’s good to know you can buy a 12-piece set separately.

Key Features:

  • 2.5 oz tins to make mini candles.
  • The tins are reusable so you can use them to store other things after use such like beads for example.
  • 12 unique designs.
Check Price

Cotton Wicks

EricX Light 100 Piece Cotton Candle Wick 6″ Pre-Waxed

Made from 100% cotton, these 6 inch wicks come ready waxed and tabbed.

Key Features:

  • Pre-waxed and pre-tabbed.
  • 100, 40 thread cotton cords.
  • Wick length of 6 inches.
Check Price

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Soap Making Kit 2022

April 26, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

As an enthusiastic soap-maker myself, I would highly recommend that the best way to get started is to choose a good soap-making kit. These kits use the melt-and-pour method which makes the process easy, fun, and above all safe. That’s because the saponification process has already been done for you. So there’s no need to use the harsh chemicals that are required in the lye process when making soap from scratch.

And don’t worry, it’s super easy to make beautiful artisan soap. I regularly make my own soap, you can check out my favorite homemade honey oatmeal soap recipe if you like. Let me tell you, it doesn’t take too much time out of your day, – preparation is about 30 minutes or less. It’s also practically foolproof and a fun activity for kids too.

There are tons of soap-making kits on the market to choose from, so we’ve done the hard work and chosen our top 5 recommendations for the best soap-making kit on the market.

Choosing a Soap-Making Kit

One thing to note about soap-making kits is that they don’t all contain the same basic items. In other words, some kits are more complete than others. The DilaBee kit, for example, includes a bowl and pitcher for melting the soap base whereas the Chelseas kit doesn’t. I have mentioned any additional items you might need at the end of each review.

Melt and Pour Soap Bases

The most important factor to consider is the quality of the soap base – as well as the quality of any fragrances included.

High-grade kits are made with vegetarian or vegan-based SLS, SLES, and paraben-free oils. The fat content of the base has two purposes:

  • Saturated fats increase a soap’s lathe.
  • Unsaturated fats moisturize and nourish the skin.

As you probably already know, each type of fat has its own unique properties and therefore provides its own benefits. Bases include:

  • Shea Butter
  • Aloe
  • Olive Oil
  • Charcoal
  • Coconut Milk
  • Avocado Butter
  • Hemp Seed Oil
  • Glycerin

Molds

Some kits it has to be said, contain cheap plastic molds. They are not my favorite as they can make releasing the soap from the mold more difficult. Silicone molds in comparison are much more resilient and because they are more flexible it makes it easier to remove the soap. Fortunately, they are easy to find separately and you may want to experiment or diversify your soap shapes anyway. So you can always buy additional molds for future soap-making ventures.

Price

Soap-making kits are inexpensive and are pretty good value for money average prices are between $30 – $50. They make great gifts for like-minded crafty friends or as a treat for yourself if you fancy trying something new.

Our Top Pick
DilaBee Soap Making Kit
ZenseMe Soap Making Kit for Adults

Custom Melt and Pour Glycerin Soap Gift Kit by Glory Creek

Complete DIY Soap Making Kit by Nicole

Saponify Melt and Pour Soap Base Sampler Kit

Pifito Melt and Pour Soap Base Sampler Kit 2

Our Top Pick

DilaBee Soap Making Kit

The DilaBee has got everything you need to get your soap-making game on point:

2 lbs of Shea Butter Soap Base, 4 essential oils, 4 liquid dyes, 2 plastic molds (choose between standard shapes or flower designs), a pouring pitcher, 2 stirring sticks, a mixing bowl, and 4 soap boxes for gift-giving or re-selling. Plus, the instructions are clear and easy to follow.

Check Price on Amazon

But the best part about this soap-making kit? It’s for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned soap-making pro or just starting out, this kit has everything you need to create your own luxurious soap bars. And if you’re not thrilled with the process, no worries – your purchase is covered by a 100% Money-Back Guarantee.

So if you’re looking to get creative with soap making, this kit is the way to go.

Pros:

  • Comes with 2 lbs of Shea Butter Soap Base, 4 essential oils, 4 liquid dyes, 2 plastic molds, a pouring pitcher, 2 stirring sticks, a mixing bowl, and 4 soap boxes
  • Clear and easy-to-follow instructions included
  • Suitable for both beginners and experienced soap makers
  • 100% Money-Back Guarantee

Cons:

  • Comes with plastic molds which are less practical than silicone.

Also Great

ZenseMe Soap Making Kit for Adults

This kit has everything you need to get started on your soap-making journey.

Introducing the only luxury melt-and-pour soap making kit you’ll ever need.

Check Price on Amazon

With all-natural ingredients and 6 therapeutic essential oils, you can create about 8 colorful and luxurious homemade soap bars that are organic, vegan, and great quality. Plus, the included silicone mold allows you to turn out beautiful and unique soaps (with ease) in endless scent combinations. And if you run out of the included 2lbs of Shea Butter soap base, you can buy goat’s milk, glycerin, and Shea Butter soap bases to try with this kit.

Pros:

  • Comes with everything you need to get started on your soap-making journey
  • All-natural ingredients and 6 therapeutic essential oils included
  • Can create about 8 colorful and luxurious homemade soap bars that are organic, vegan, and of great quality
  • Silicone mold allows for easy creation of beautiful and unique soaps in endless scent combinations
  • Includes Shea Butter soap base, but other soap bases such as goat’s milk, glycerin, and Shea Butter can be purchased to use with the kit

Cons:

  • Additional items may be needed, such as a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol, measuring cup, and wooden spoon

Best Kids Kit

Custom Melt and Pour Glycerin Soap Gift Kit by Glory Creek

It’s so easy to get into making embeds with this super-cute fun kit.

The Glory Creek is a step up from children’s soap kits but your kids will definitely want to join in.

Check Price on Amazon

The kit comes with 4 stars, 4 hearts, and 4 seashells. You also get squigglies and ribbons, so you can really get creative with your designs.

You get a generous 2 lbs of white and clear soap base. The kit also comes with 2 craft sticks for stirring, a silicone mini loaf pan, 8 gift bags, with jute ties, and gift cards.

Pros:

  • Fun kit with lots of embeds to get creative with
  • Comes with 2 lbs of quality glycerin soap base
  • Includes gift bags and tags for handmade soap gifts
  • Easy to use and great for practicing soap-making techniques

Cons:

  • Additional items may be needed, such as a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol, measuring cup, and wooden spoon
  • May not be suitable for advanced soap makers looking for more complex techniques

Also Consider

DIY Melt & Pour Shea Butter Soap Making Kit

Create soaps that are more fun and visually appealing than the typical bar

This kit contains the same molds that I use when making my favorite recipes.

Check Price on Amazon

This package includes everything you need to create your own homemade soap. You’ll get 2 lbs of shea butter soap base, 2 silicone square containers, 6 fragrance oils, 6 liquid dyes, a glass measuring cup, a silicone stirring stick, 2 dry flowers, and 12 homemade wrap labels. Plus, there’s a detailed introduction to guide you through the soap-making process.

But what sets this kit apart from the rest is the ability to get creative with your soaps. You can mix and match scents and colors to create your own unique soaps. Plus, with the included dry flowers and other fun embeds, you can create soaps that are more fun and visually appealing than the typical bar.

And don’t worry if you’re a beginner – this kit comes with step-by-step instructions to ensure your soap-making experience is a successful one. So don’t be afraid to dive in and try your hand at soap making.

Pros:

  • The kit includes a variety of fragrance oils and liquid dyes, allowing you to mix and match scents and colors to create your own unique soaps.
  • The kit includes dry flowers and other fun embeds, giving you the opportunity to create visually appealing soaps.
  • The kit includes step-by-step instructions, making it suitable for beginners.
  • Contains silicone Molds (preferable to plastic).

Cons:

  • Additional items may be needed, such as a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol.

Other Worthy Mentions:

Pick No 1

Complete DIY Soap Making Kit by Nicole

This kit even goes one step further. If you want to make soap from scratch you can use the lye method with this kit too (it includes safety glasses, gloves, a ph test kit and thermometer, and glass rod for stirring, etc).

Check Price on Amazon

What we love about this kit is that it comes with a food-grade loaf soap mold, a wave knife, a soap knife (for a straight edge), and a wooden beveler for chamfering your edges, so you can make artisan soap slices. Also included are 4 sizes of measuring cups, two pipettes, a silicone scraper, and a stainless steel whisk for blending your essential oils, botanicals, and minerals. If you intend to make soap using the lye process you will need to invest in a stick blender, and of course, you will need lye, distilled water, and a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol (to remove bubbles from the surface of your trace).

The kit also contains a 500g soap base to get you started with the melt-and-pour method. The soap base provided isn’t the best quality in our opinion. So If you go for this kit we recommend buying a good quality soap base.

Pick No 2

Saponify Melt and Pour Soap Base Sampler Kit

If you’d like to make soaps to sell, this sampler kit is the ideal way to get started.

I know from the photo you might think the kit only gives you a small sample of each soap base but this is a big kit.

Check Price on Amazon

The kit consists of 8 different, 1lb soap bases allowing you to sample and try out different the different varieties including shea butter, avocado butter, coconut milk, olive oil, charcoal, and aloe.

The kit includes a leaf-shaped mold that will give you up to 12 guest-sized bars from each 1 lb block of soap base – that’s a total of 96 bars.

We love the scope this kit gives you to experiment and develop your soap-making skills. You can keep things simple or create multi-layered combinations. You can add your own botanicals, like flowers and herbs, or add skin-safe fragrances, and colors up to 3%.

You will still need a small spray bottle containing rubbing alcohol if you want a bubble-free surface on your trace. You’ll also need a microwave-safe measuring cup, a wooden spoon, and of course, any botanicals or scents you want to add.

Pick No 3

Pifito DIY Hand Soap Making Supplies Kit

This is a great little starter kit if you want to experiment with different bases.

The best part about this kit is that it takes all the guesswork out of soap making. You don’t have to go around trying to figure out which base is the best one for you.

Check Price on Amazon

You can just try them all and see which one works best for you. And the best part is, you get a whole bunch of each base, so you can make a ton of soap and really get a feel for which one you like best.

Filed Under: Crafts

Mid Century Modern Decor on a Budget

April 18, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Few interior design trends have been as iconic or as long-lasting as the mid-century modern look – and for good reason.

The movement, pioneered by talented and influential post-war architects and designers such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Florence Knoll, and Charles and Ray Eames went on to define 1950s America.

Organic shapes and natural wood were an
important feature of mid century modern design

Inspired by the idea of creating open and tranquil living spaces, the architecture of the day took the form of airy living spaces with full length windows that sort to bring the outside in.

Most notably, the movement believed in good design, not just for the wealthy – but for everyone.

Combining natural materials like wood, with man-made or manufactured materials like plywood, glass, metal, plastic, and plexiglass, they created organic forms that were as aesthetically beautiful as they were comfortable and practical – but most importantly, they were affordable too.

With such sound design principles as these, the mid century modern style is not a trend that will outdate in the way that other minor trends have come and gone.

What’s more, it’s easy to create the timeless elegance of the mid-century modern style without going all out and spending a fortune on high-end furniture and accessories.

Eames Shell Chair

If you know what to look for, you can easily pick out elements of mid-century design in so-called modern pieces that are more competitively priced.

Shell chair replicas, (often referred to as the Eiffel chair) are a case in point. They are the latest trend and easily affordable.

In fact, they’re so à la mode, they look like they are the latest thing in thing in furniture design – all be it with a nod to the 1950s.

But the chair is, in fact, more than 70 years old – a true mid century modern piece, designed by Charles Eames in 1948.

Similarly, modern sofas are often based on original mid century pieces. The one shown below isn’t just inspired by mid century modern style in general – it’s specifically based on Florence Knoll’s iconic design. 

You don’t have to go for replicas, any piece that has a mid century vibe to it will work, but if you want a truly authentic look, a good tip is to do a little research and choose furniture inspired by the most iconic designers of the period.

Here are just a few of the top mid century modern designers to check out: Florence Knoll, Eero Saarinen, Arne Jacobsen, Edward Wormley, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Hans Wegner, Hans Wegner, and Charles, and Ray Eames.

So now we’ll take a look at how to get the look.

Simple tips to get the mid-century look.

1: Back to Basics

Many mid century modern interior and furniture designers were also architects. We can see this influence in the clean lines and organic forms of their furniture. The most iconic chairs of the period are undeniably architectural in style.

Interiors were simple – almost minimalist in style.

You will no doubt heard the saying “less is more.” It was in fact a prominent mid century modern architect and furniture designer of the time, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe who first coined the phrase.

Decluttering costs nothing and it’s always a good look – regardless of the style of decor you choose.

The idea is to create a feeling of openness and space and you can’t do that with a room that’s full of clutter.

Too many items of furniture or too many ornaments, pictures, books, or throw pillows and the room starts to feel small.

Simplicity is the key. And if you or donate those nonessential items you’ll love the feeling of tranquility that only space can provide.

2: Choosing Mid-Century Furniture on a Budget

Often the whole tone of a room can be set by one key item of furniture. If your budget will allow, investing in just one iconic piece, like an accent chair, sideboard, or dining table will give you a good foundation to build your style on.

You can go down the second-hand route or you could choose a good quality reproduction of one of the iconic pieces from the era.

Barcelona (left) Womb (middle) and the Eames chair (right)

You will no doubt instantly recognize the soft organic contours of the womb chair, the plywood shell of the famous 1950s Eames chair or the simple architectural elegance of the Barcelona chair. Each, a classic example of the style.

Although all three chairs are still in production today authentic ones will set you back upwards of $5,000, but you can buy an exceptionally well made Barcelona, womb, or Eames chair replica based on the original design at a much more affordable price.

If you can stretch to it, you may wish to add to the look by adding other pieces such as a coffee or side table.

3: Set the Mood with Color

One of the most distinctive features of mid-century design is its color palette of bold, earthy shades – a selection of which you can see below:

Ideally these colors should be added as an accent to a neutral shade such as gray, or cream or as a contrast color to black or dark brown.

Generally speaking the number of colors you add from the palette should be proportional to the amount of the color that you use.

For example, if you have a gray sofa you could add a big block of color by choosing a mustard yellow, dark teal or burnt orange accent chair.

Any additional colors you then add should then be kept to a minimum.

George Nelson Wall Clock Replica from Amazon

Alternatively you may prefer to keep your furniture neutral. In this case, you could add a couple of throw pillows in one or two of the bolder colors listed above..

If you like, you can add more colors but keep them limited to smaller items such as a small group of vases or even an iconic accent piece such as the famous George Nelson wall clock which has the full pallet range incorporated into its design.

Just remember to keep things simple and you can’t go wrong.

4: Bring the Outside In

One of the main principles of the movement was to bring the outside inside.

The architecture of the period took the form of open living areas with large full-length windows while interiors were designed to create a relaxed and informal living space.

Architectural plants with big arching leaves were all the vogue and a great way to add color to brighten up a plain corner or wall.

Choose one or two statement plants but do check that they will thrive where you intend to place them.

For a dark corner you may want to consider choosing an artificial plant.

Artificial plants have come a long way in recent years and there are some good quality, and quite realistic ones, available on the market these days.

If you’d like a live one here’s a quick rundown of MCM house plants

  • Monstera
  • Snake plant or mother in law’s tongue (below)
  • Fiddle Fig Leaf (above right)
  • ZZ Plant ( Above – being potted)
  • Umbrella plant

5. Add Lighting

It’s easy to overlook the importance of good lighting. While a pendant ceiling light is a great way to add another accent of the mid-century style to your decor, a room that’s just a blanket lit from above can look less than warm and inviting.

Why not light up a dark corner with a simple floor lamp or add a table lamp to draw the eye to a statement piece like a sideboard or cabinet and, of course, add a lamp to a side-table to light up a sofa or accent chair.

Look for lamps that are minimalist in design or those that use natural materials such as wood or plywood. 

Lastly, you are welcome to download some free mid century modern wall art to complete your look. And for further reading hop over to the reading room for some great mid century modern book recommendations.

Above all, have fun.

Filed Under: Home Décor

The Best Craft Organizer for 2022

April 13, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Whether you’re an occasional crafter or you are lucky enough to have your own craft room, having the best craft organizer for all your materials is essential.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to be well organized either, most craft storage solutions are very affordable.

There are tons of different craft organizers on the market to choose from, so we’ve done the hard work for you and narrowed our research down to our best recommendations for each category.

Editor’s Award Brand
Best Craft Storage Cart
Giantex 15 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart
Best Craft Bag
Everything Mary Craft Bag Organizer Tote
Best Storage Drawers
ArtBin Art Bin 0365498 Store-in-Drawer Cabinet
Best Bead Storage
Elizabeth Ward Bead Storage Solutions
Best Knitting Bag
Teamoy Knitting Bag, Yarn Tote Organizer
Best Yarn and Fabric Storage
ClosetMaid 4167 Cubeicals Organizer
Best Craft Organizer Cabinet

Craft and Hobby Cabinet with Drawers by Best Craft Organizer
Best Small Craft Organizer Cabinet
Winsome Halifax Storage

Reviews of the Craft Organizers We Recommend

If you need a craft table or sewing cabinet to complete your craft room we have in-depth guides for those too. You can also find a good craft light here.

Best Craft Storage Cart: Giantex 15 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

Best Craft Storage Cart

This colorful rolling storage cart is the perfect way to keep all your craft supplies and tools close to hand, whether you’re working at a craft table or just in a comfortable chair.

Check Price

The cart comes in a range of different draw configurations and sizes, that will comfortably accommodate virtually any number of crafting materials.

The fifteen drawer cart version, shown above, has five deep drawers, for yarns, fabrics, (A4) paper or card supplies, craft books, magazines, and more. As well as ten standard-sized drawers – great for craft tools including plyers, scissors, pencils, paints, knitting, crochet needles, etc.

Giantex 20 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

And if you prefer a more understated look – this Giatex rolling cart also comes in plain black or white as shown below.

Giantex 10 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

Whichever size or configuration is the most suitable for the craft you specialize in, they all share the same structural features. Namely a sturdy metal frame with a chrome finish, four 360-degree swivel wheels – two of which are lockable, and an integral handle design – making the cart easily portable, so it’s handy for moving the cart to just where you need it.

What We Like:

  • Portable Storage | This cart design means you craft anywhere – your tools and supplies can move to wherever you want them.
  • Different Drawer Sizes and Configurations Available | It has sturdy plastic trays and also comes in a choice of rainbow colors, black or white to match or contrast your craft room decor.
Giantex 12 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

For other sizes just click on the images in this section.

Best Craft Bag: Everything Mary Craft Bag Organizer Tote

This cute tote is ideal for crafters on the go.

If like me, you work on your craft projects whenever you get the chance, you can simply pack your craft essentials in this adorable bag and take them with you – wherever you go.

…So handy – even if you’re just working on something creative in your backyard on a warm sunny day at home.

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Made from high-quality 300 denier polyester fabric, this super roomy craft bag, has a total of seventeen different compartments, and it comes in a choice of colors to suit any taste – each as stunning as the two gorgeous color options shown above and below.

What we really love about this bag is the compartmented interior which organizes your crafting tools and materials into sections. The design makes it so easy to see everything at once and prevents a big jumble from forming at the bottom of your bag.

And there’s more than meets the eye too, the interior compartments are collapsible, two of them fold flat to make more space, and two form corner pockets – how clever is that?

There is one big zippered pocket to the rear of the bag and two pockets have flaps to safely store small items.

Dimensions: 11.75″ by 9.5″ by 7.25″

What We Like:

  • Collapsible Interior Sections | The collapsable design gives this bag a fully customizable interior.
  • Lots of Storage Pockets | The bag has seventeen different storage pockets.
  • Attractive Design | This back is stylish and chic. It comes in a range of lovely colors or fabric options.

Best Craft Storage Drawers: ArtBin Art Bin 0365498 Store-in-Drawer Cabinet

These stackable drawer units with transparent drawer fronts make organizing small craft items a dream.

There’s nothing more frustrating than wasting your time, looking for a particular button or color bobbin you know you have, but just can’t find.

With these drawer cabinets, you can see everything at a glance.

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Available in either a 9-drawer or a 30-drawer unit, the cabinet is ideal for beads, cabochons, jewelry findings, threads, bobbins, scrapbooking stamps, stamp pads, inks, or other small craft supplies.

The 30-drawer cabinet has drawer dimensions of 1.5 x 2.25 x 5.5 inches and the larger drawer unit has 9 drawers measuring 4.75 x 5.5 x 2.5 inches each.

What’s great about the design of this cabinet is that you can customize the drawer size with optional dividers, perfect if you want to add more than one type of craft item per drawer.

The cabinet itself is stackable in whichever drawer configuration you choose, and the cabinet is wall-mountable to save on space

What We Like:

  • Wall Mountable and Stackable | For neat storage and saving space.
  • Customizable Drawers | There is an option to add separately available dividers – ideal for adding more than one type of item to a drawer.

Best Bead Storage: Elizabeth Ward Bead Storage Solutions

I have to confess, I have become a bit obsessed with beading recently, you can see my just completed projects below and I’ll will post more soon.

I’m just waiting on a whole bunch of new beads, for a beaded bezel ring I want to make.

My bead list currently includes a beautiful 12mm square chaton in light turquoise, chrysolite opal shimmer bicones, and about a ton of 11/0 and 15/0 Miyuki seed beads.

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But then, as long as you have everything well organized, you can never really have too many beads, can you?

The Elizabeth Ward stackable 45, or 82-piece – bead storage tray is the perfect way to organize and store your beads.

What I particularly love about this bead tray is that each drawer is an individually removable storage container that you can take out and use for whatever beads you are working with.

With the 45 – piece bead tray you get 3 large, 10 medium, 16 small, and 13 tiny bead storage containers.

The 82-piece has 78 tiny containers. The trays are stackable and come with a clear lid and a sheet of labels – handy for noting down color shades or bead types and sizes. and if you need more they are easy and cheap to buy.

The containers themselves have a secure closure but aren’t awkward to open (they open by lifting a flap on the side).

I love how easy it is to color coordinate beads for new projects. Just by placing a few containers next to each other, you can get a good idea of how well your colors will work together.

Dimensions:

  • Tray 13.75 x 10.5 x 2 inches
  • Large Container 0.75 x2 x 1.125 inches
  • Medium 1.75 x 2 x 1.125 inches
  • Small 1.0667 x 2 x 1.125 inches
  • Tiny 0.75 x 2 x 1.125 inches

Best Knitting Bag: Teamoy Knitting Bag, Yarn Tote Organizer

If you are a knitter or a crocheter, you will love this cleverly designed knitting bag.

Just over half of the interior is divided into 6 compartments to separate your yarns and each compartment has a matching hole on the transparent lid.

The holes allow you to feed your yarn through (for straight from the bag use) and you can secure the ends via tiny velcro strips.

Your knitting or crochet project can then be safely stored in the adjoining interior section, so there’s no chance of tangling, and your project won’t end up pilling before it’s even completed.

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There’s plenty of pocket storage including a zipped pocket containing two strips of MOLLE webbing, (one for 9 larger hooks and one for 6 smaller hooks,) you also get side pockets and a zippered top pocket for different-sized needles too.

For your knitting or crochet patterns, there’s a back pocket that’s perfectly designed for the purpose.

The bag is made from strong nylon and has carry handles as well as a shoulder strap.

This adorable bag is perfect for keeping everything you need for your project in one place.

And the best thing about it is you can take everything you need wherever you go – handy even if that’s just to another room.

What We Like:

  • Separate Yarn Compartments with Feed Holes | This is great for knitting straight from the bag. Your yarns will never get tangled.
  • Knitting Needle and Crochet Hook Storage | The back has multiple pockets for different-sized needles and MOLLE webbing strips for your crochet hooks.

Best Yarn and Fabric Storage: ClosetMaid 4167 Cubeicals Organizer

A storage cube is the best way to store and organize your yarns and folded fabrics.

Why? Because you can see all your materials at a glance. You can group them by batch, organize them by weight, fiber, color, or simply by the project.

And of course, you’ll be able to admire your growing collection of fabrics or yarns (especially if you spin your own) that you’ve lined up for forthcoming projects for knitting, crocheting, weaving or quiltmaking, etc.

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There are a number of cube options out there, including the customizable KOUSI Portable Storage Cube Organizer, which is featured in our main image at the top of this page.

The KOUSI (top main image) is made up of blocks that be assembled/stacked however you like. It’s not as sturdy as our top pick for this section, but once it’s put together it’s a good choice.

The ClosetMaid 4167 however, is a solid piece of furniture. You can choose any number of cubes to make up the finished cabinet, from a 3-2-1, combination to a 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 or 12 cube design, like the one shown below.

Back pieces come with all cabinets (except the 1-2-3 combination) and are a nice touch to the overall look of the design, as you can see in to photo above. They also help to add extra stability to the structure.

What’s great about the design of this cubed cabinet is that you can customize it with fabric bins to match or contrast your craft room decor.

The fabric bins are sold separately but any bin that measures 10.5 x 10.5 x 11″ will fit – so you can shop around for the best deals and get just the right color to match your craft room decor.

Royexe Storage Bins

What We Like:

  • Can be Used Vertically or Horizontally | This cubical storage cabinet has several configurations to choose from.
  • Compatible with Fabric Storage Bins | Any 10.5 x 10.5 x 11″ Fabric storage bin will fit so you can shop around for just the right shade.

Best Craft Organizer Cabinet: Craft and Hobby Cabinet with Drawers by Best Craft Organizer

Designed specifically for crafters, this cabinet would make the perfect addition to any craft room.

Whatever your craft, it’s ideal for organizing and storing all your craft supplies in one place.

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The drawers included are twelve, 1-inch drawers, six, 2-inch drawers, and four, 3.5 -inch drawers.

You can easily arrange them in any way you like, by adjusting the drawer rails closer or further apart. There are pre-drilled holes, positioned at 1-inch increments, designed specifically for the purpose.

The cabinet’s frame is made from 3/4″ thermofused melamine and it is available in either a maple or white finish. The drawers are made from high-impact polypropylene.

Though not the cheapest option we have looked at, the cabinet will last for years and give any craft room a stylish, contemporary look.

Dimensions: 14″ deep x 27″ wide x 24.5″ high.

Best Small Craft Organizer Cabinet: Winsome Halifax Storage

If you’re an occasional crafter and don’t have a designated craft room this 26.3″ high, 5-drawer cabinet has plenty of drawer space, it’s portable, and would look good in any room.

If you do have a craft room, it would make the perfect accompaniment to your craft table – when it’s not needed, you can just roll it away.

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The cabinet is well made from composite wood and features cut-out handles and lockable castor feet.

We love the design of this cabinet (which is also available in black). Add one more unit and you could easily make your own craft desk by simply placing a tabletop above.

However, you use it, it’s one of the most stylish and convenient ways to organize your craft items.

Dimensions: Inside drawers 15.9″ wide x 11.8″ deep x 2.6″ high.

Other Craft Storage Solutions We’ve Reviewed:

These are more specialized storage solutions:

For Storing Vinyl

ArtBin 6864XL Storage Tower

Such a simple design and it’s stackable too.

Key Features:

  • Holds 36 Vinyl Rolls.
  • Stack two together to hold 72 Rolls.
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Scrapbooking or Quiter’s Storage

ArtBin Semi Satchel Box

Store stamps, punches, dies, card or fat quarters and co-ordinating threads, etc.

Key Features:

  • Removable compartments to customize your space.
  • 15.25 x 14 x 6.25 inches.
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Craft Paint Storage

ArtBin 6828AG Paint Storage Tray

A great way to store your craft paints, and it just looks so pretty.

Key Features:

  • Wall mountable or stand in a tabletop.
  • One tray fits into 6925AB and two trays fit into 6990AB Super Satchel.
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Stained Glass Storage

Studio Pro Organizer

Safely store your stained glass sheets with this Studio Pro Organizer.

Key Features:

  • 15 slot organizer.
  • 1/2-inch openings with rubber tips.
  • Perfect for 12″ x 12″ sheets.
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Wooden Yarn Bowl


Wooden Yarn Bowl

We couldn’t resist this cleverly designed yarn bowl. It’s beautiful even if you don’t knit.

Key Features:

  • Real wood with smooth edges.
  • Preventing tangles.
  • Two holes for your needles to stop them from falling out.
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Ink and Paint Rack

OPHIR Wooden Paint Rack Stand

Perfect for your airbrush inks and tools.

Key Features:

  • 16 large, 42 small and 22 mini holes (0.28, 0.98, and 1.46 inches).
  • Two drawers for airbrushes and other tools.
  • Fits Tamiya paints, AV Vallejo paints and more.
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Ink Pad Storage Holder

Ink Pad Storage Holder and Stamp Pad Storage

You can see all your colors easily with this ink pad display stand.

Key Features:

  • Holds 36 pads.
  • Elevated for easy access and view.
  • Can be positioned two ways.
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Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Smart Mirror for 2022

April 6, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Are you tired of your old, boring mirror that just sits there and reflects your face back at you? Well then, it’s time to upgrade to the ultimate in mirror technology: the smart mirror.

Depending on what features you want, a smart mirror can give you up-to-date information on the weather, the time, the indoor temperature, and more, or, you can choose to listen to your favorite music via Bluetooth – whether you are getting ready to start your morning or relaxing in the tub at the end of a long day.

In fact, installing a smart mirror is exactly what we chose to do recently when renovating what looked more like a prison cell than a luxury bathroom before we moved in (as you can see in the estate agent photo below left). Below right is the same bathroom as it is now with our new smart mirror installed.

Before
After

We love how the lighting from the smart mirror softens and enhances the overall look of our bathroom. I am personally very impressed with the anti-mist feature which keeps the surface of the mirror clear and steam-free so I can now use the bathroom mirror to do my makeup.

The back of the mirror showing the anti-mist pad in the center.

Smart mirrors don’t all have the same features, so it can be a little confusing to work out what each model does and doesn’t have. Below is a list of the main features that smart mirrors will allow you to do:

Different Features of Smart Mirrors:

  • Real-time weather updates with recognizable weather icons
  • Indoor temperature and humidity readings
  • Alarm settings to help keep you on schedule
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Dimmable or color-changing lighting options
  • Anti-mist pad for a clear center of the mirror
  • Magnifying area for makeup or shaving, with some models featuring a lighted magnifying area.

Now, not just any smart mirror will do. You want the best, and that’s where we come in. We’ve scoured the internet, tested the products, and ranked them from good to great to absolute perfection. And the winner, drumroll please… is the BYECOLD Vanity Touch Switch Bathroom Mirror.

The BYECOLD Vanity Touch Switch Bathroom Mirror is a cut above the rest, with its impressive array of features. The connection to the WiseMirror app gives you real-time weather updates, while the touch button lets you adjust the color temperature on the fly. And if you’re worried about fogging up the mirror, fear not – the anti-fog function kicks in immediately, clearing up the mirror in just 5-10 minutes. This mirror is built to last, too, with its durable, armored glass and IP54 waterproof rating. Plus, it comes in a range of sizes and configurations to suit any wall space and has a 1-year warranty for peace of mind. All in all, it’s a versatile and functional choice that blows the competition out of the water.

Features Brand Click Image to Read Review
WiFi /Weather BYECOLD Vertical Vanity Touch Switch Bathroom Mirror
Bluetooth M LTMIRROR
Bluetooth Gesipor Smart Bathroom Mirror with Touch Switch
Best Budget Option /with Bluetooth Homecart Bathroom LED Mirror Bluetooth Speaker
Free Standing Smart Vanity Mirror Hansong Makeup Mirror with Lights and Bluetooth

Our Top Pick

BYECOLD Vanity Touch Switch Bathroom Mirror

The ultimate smart mirror with WiFi and weather updates!

Simple and elegant with a clear display, the BYECOLD smart mirror has an impressive range of features, above and beyond the lights and anti-fog that standard touch switch mirrors have. It’s even possible to customize it if you contact the seller beforehand.

View on Amazon

Priced at under $400 for the largest size option, the BYECOLD smart mirror is not only beautiful but it’s affordable too.

The mirror is controlled by a sensitive smart touch button that allows you to adjust the color temperature to your liking. Simply switch the button on the black box at the back of the mirror and you can freely switch between 3000k and 6000k colors.

But that’s not all. This mirror connects to the WiseMirror app. This allows you to get real-time weather forecasts with eleven different recognizable icons. So it’s all right there for you to see.

And if you’re worried about your mirror fogging up, don’t! The anti-fog function on this vanity mirror kicks in immediately when you turn on the anti-fog button, clearing up the mirror in just 5-10 minutes. It’s safe, energy-efficient, and can even be turned on in advance before you use the mirror.

What about durability I hear you say? Well, this mirror is made of strong, armored glass that won’t easily break. Even if it does, it won’t shatter into pieces like regular glass would. The LED strips also come with a silvered reflection layer and are copper-free and environmentally friendly. Plus, the mirror has an IP54 waterproof rating, ensuring safe lighting in even the wettest of bathroom environments.

Installation is a breeze too, with four pairs of dowels and screws included in the package. And with the smart touch switch, you can easily access the mirror’s three major functions — light, defogging, and weather forecast.

In short, this backlit, smart, anti-fog vanity mirror is the ultimate addition to any bathroom. It’s stylish, functional, and easy to use, giving you a quick and intelligent experience every time you use it.

The BYECOLD touch switch mirror comes in a good range of sizes and configurations to suit any wall space — there are both horizontal and vertical options.

The mirror also comes with a 1-year warranty.

Pros:

  • Sensitive smart touch button on the screen for easy color temperature adjustment
  • Switch between 3000k and 6000k colors on the black box at the back of the mirror
  • Connected to WiseMirror app for real-time weather forecasts on the mirror’s screen
  • Anti-fog function clears the mirror in 5-10 minutes
  • Made of strong, armored glass that won’t shatter if broken
  • LED strips are copper-free and environmentally friendly
  • IP54 waterproof rating for safe use in wet bathroom environments
  • Easy to install with included dowels and screws
  • One-button access to light, defogging, and weather forecast functions for a quick and intelligent experience.

Cons:

  • If you were hoping this mirror would be able to play music too, unfortunately, it doesn’t – but our next option does.
  • The Smart mirror will only work on your 2.4Ghz WiFi network, if you are using a dual-band router, you will need to split up the 2.4G and 5G networks, or turn off the 5G signal until you complete your WiFi connection.

Runner Up

M LTMIRROR

Sleek, budget-friendly, ultrathin, and packed with features!

It’s got a sleek, ultrathin design thanks to the integrated ABS sheet on the back, which also makes it sturdy and safe to use in wet bathroom environments. It’s even waterproof up to IP54 rate.

View on Amazon

This budget-friendly smart mirror won’t break the bank. Packed with features, it has a sleek, ultrathin design thanks to the integrated ABS sheet on the back, which also makes it sturdy and safe to use in wet bathroom environments. It’s even waterproof up to IP54 rate.

But the real kicker? It’s got a built-in Bluetooth speaker that lets you listen to your favorite tunes while getting ready in the morning or relaxing in the shower after a long day. And the best part? No more fogging up the mirror after a steamy shower. The defogger kicks in automatically, so it’s always clear.

The lighted vanity mirror also has a memory sensor that allows you to control the light and defogger with a wall switch. It remembers the last state of the light, so when you turn it back on, it’s just as you left it. Plus, the light is dimmable and has three color temperature settings: white, warm, and daylight.

But what really sets this mirror apart is its front LED light. It’s brighter, clearer, and more realistic than the typical backlit vanity mirror, so you can see yourself in the truest light possible. Perfect for makeup application, grooming, and skincare.

In short, the M LTMIRROR 24×32 lighted bathroom mirror is a game-changer and it comes with a 2 years warranty for peace of mind.

Pros:

  • Integrated ABS sheet on the back makes the mirror sturdy and ultrathin
  • Safe to use in wet bathroom environments and waterproof up to IP54 rate
  • Built-in Bluetooth speaker for listening to music while getting ready or relaxing in the shower
  • Defogger automatically kicks in to prevent fogging after a steamy shower
  • Wall switch control and memory sensor remember the last state of the light
  • Dimmable light with three color temperature settings: white, warm, and daylight
  • Front LED light is brighter, clearer, and more realistic for makeup application, grooming, and skincare

Cons:

  • Does not support Alexa or voice control (only Bluetooth for music)
  • May be too large or too small for some bathroom spaces as it only comes in one size (24×32 inches)

Also Consider

Gesipor Smart Bathroom Mirror with Touch Switch

And as we all know bathroom acoustics are perfect – so go ahead and sing along.

A Bluetooth connection lets you play your favorite music with 360-degree surround sound through this stylish, touch-switch smart mirror.

View on Amazon

And if your phone rings – you can quickly answer it by pressing the touch switch button on the mirror.

You’ll notice straight away that this mirror (unlike our previous pick) has the light-strip built into the mirror’s design. Although the one we have featured is framed by a mirrored edge, there’s also an option to choose one that has the light strip framing the edge of the mirror.

They are both equally stunning, and whichever design you choose, the light is dimmable and easily adjustable from a 6000K daylight white to a 3000K warm white – with a simple 3-second press of the switch.

Additionally, the mirror features an anti-fogging function that is accessed through a designated button on the display panel and although this mirror doesn’t give you a weather forecast, it does display the temperature as well as the time.

The mirror comes in a range of size options and orientations to suit any bathroom wall space.

The mirror has a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.

Pros:

  • Touch switch design allows for easy answering of phone calls
  • Built-in light strip is sleek and modern
  • Light is dimmable and easily adjustable between two color temperature settings
  • Anti-fogging function for steamy showers
  • Temperature and time display
  • Comes in a range of sizes and orientations to fit any bathroom wall space
  • 3-year warranty for peace of mind

Cons:

  • Does not have a weather forecast function

Best Budget Option

Homecart Bathroom LED Mirror Sensor Touch

A fab Budget Option with Bluetooth!

The Homecart smart mirror is our budget choice and although it has fewer features than our other two picks, it does have Bluetooth.

At well under $200 it’s suitable for those on a tight budget and is excellent value for money.

View on Amazon

Simply connect it to your phone and with a touch of the button, you can play your favorite tunes through the hidden speakers on the back of the mirror. It’s like having your own personal concert while you get ready in the morning.

But this mirror is more than just a speaker. It’s backlit by 4000K LEDs, which provide a cool, neutral light that’s perfect for makeup application, grooming, and skincare. And if you’re worried about fogging up the mirror after a steamy shower, fear not – it has an anti-fog function that’s activated with a touch of a button.

The mirror measures 23.6 x 31.5 x 1.2 inches and is only available in this size. So if you’re looking for a smaller or larger option, this may not be the right choice for you. Also, it’s worth noting that the anti-fog strip covers a large square in the central area of the mirror. While this shouldn’t be a problem for most people, it’s something to keep in mind.

Overall, this Bluetooth smart mirror is a stylish and functional addition to any bathroom. It’s got everything you need – and maybe a little bit more.

Pros:

  • Bluetooth connectivity allows for playing music through hidden speakers on the back of the mirror
  • Backlit by 4000K LEDs for a cool, neutral light
  • Anti-fog function to prevent fogging after steamy showers
  • Large size (23.6 x 31.5 x 1.2 inches) provides ample space for makeup application, grooming, and skincare

Cons:

  • Only available in one size, may not be suitable for all bathroom wall spaces
  • Anti-fog function only covers the central area of the mirror, outer edges may still fog up (but then again that’s true for all of them).

Worthy of a Mention

Hansong Makeup Mirror with Lights and Bluetooth

For a fraction of the price of a full-sized smart mirror, the Hansong Make up mirror is a small, free-standing version of the smart mirror – and an absolute must-have for doing your hair and make-up.

View on Amazon

Simply connect the mirror to your phone through Bluetooth and you can listen to your favorite music while you are getting ready. And if your phone rings – you can even take calls.

What we love about the mirror is the way it can so easily be swiveled 360 degrees – so you can choose whether to position it in the horizontal or vertical position.

The addition of the included 3.5-inch detachable magnifying mirror with a magnification of 10X is great for make-up details or zooming in on those pores. Simply stick it to the mirror’s surface with the suction cups when needed.

Press and hold the touch button for 2-3 seconds and you can adjust the brightness of the light.

And what we particularly like is the flip power switch on the back to prevent the mirror lights from accidentally being turned on during travel or when in storage.

Pros:

  • Affordable option compared to full-sized smart mirrors
  • Connects to phone through Bluetooth for music and phone calls
  • 360-degree swivel allows for horizontal or vertical positioning
  • Includes 3.5-inch detachable magnifying mirror with 10X magnification
  • Adjustable brightness with touch button
  • Flip power switch to prevent accidental activation during travel or storage

Cons:

  • Only available in a small, free-standing size
  • May not be as functional as full-sized smart mirrors
  • Does not have an anti-fogging function
  • Does not display temperature or time
  • May not be as durable as full-sized smart mirrors

Filed Under: Home Furnishings

Best Soft Top Gazebo for 2022

April 1, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

It’s so easy to add a touch of luxury to your backyard, patio, or deck area just by adding the best soft top gazebo. Best of all, you’ll transform a baking hot outdoor space that would otherwise drive you inside to get out of the sun, into a cool oasis of shade and relaxation.

With so many on the market to choose from, we’ve done all the research for you and have provided in-depth reviews to help you choose the best one for your outdoor space. From an initial 20 plus brands, we’ve narrowed our recommendations down to the 5 best soft top gazebos on the market today.

And don’t worry if bugs are a problem. Choose a gazebo that comes with a mosquito net and you can enjoy eating alfresco or relaxing outside in the evenings too – completely bug-free.

So let’s dive straight in.

Editors Award Brand
Our Top Pick – Best Soft Top Gazebo with Privacy Curtains and Mosquito Net (10×10′)
Christopher Knight Home Sonoma Canopy Gazebo
Best Alternative Soft Top Gazebo with Privacy Curtains and Mosquito Net (10×13′)
Grand Patio Gazebo
Best Soft Top Gazebo with Mosquito Net (10 x 12′)
Sunjoy Regency II Patio Gazebo
Best Wind, Weather, and Fade – Resistant Soft Top Gazebo – Sunbrella* (10 x 13′ or 12 x12′)
EliteShade Sunbrella Titan Patio Gazebo
Best Pop Up / Portable Soft Top Gazebo (11 x 11′)

COOL Spot Pop-Up Gazebo Tent

Grand patio 10×13 Feet Patio Gazebo from Amazo

Our Top Pick – Best Soft Top Gazebo with Privacy Curtains and Mosquito Net: Christopher Knight Home Sonoma Canopy Gazebo (10 x10′)

The Sonoma is perfectly designed to make relaxing or entertaining outdoors comfortable and enjoyable.

The canvas wall panels can be attached & zipped closed to give you a cool shady place to relax on a baking hot sunny day.

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And in the evenings – it doesn’t matter how much of a bug battleground your backyard or patio area becomes – simply zip-close the mosquito screen and no bugs can get in to spoil your fun.

What we love about this gazebo, is that both the screen and the outside canvas cover are detachable and have independent zippers for each section. You can basically customize your soft top gazebo any way you like depending on temperature, weather conditions, bug population, or simply for privacy.

So let’s get down to the details:

The soft top and solid fabric panels are made from UV-resistant polyester.

To be clear, UV-resistant means just that – it’s resistant to fading so your gazebo is designed to stand up to long hot sunny days without fading.

That said, if you live in an extremely sunny location, you should consider a gazebo that is made with Sunbrella fabric as that is the only fabric that’s completely UV proof – but as you’d expect, it comes at a higher price.

If you think this is an essential feature for your location, you can skip straight to that section here.

For most locations, however, UV-resistant polyester will stay true to its original color season after season.

The soft-top roof has an air vent to prevent hot air from accumulating inside. And don’t worry, the opening is netted so no bugs or mosquitos can find their way in.

Now, you’ll no doubt be wondering if this gazebo will stand up to windy weather?

The answer is, yes, absolutely! The high-grade, powder-coated steel frame is very sturdy. Two holes in the square base of each leg, allow you to bolt or anchor the gazebo to secure it. Once secured, either by fixings or weighted with sandbags, it will stand up to strong winds with ease.

Our only small criticism of this soft top gazebo is that the mosquito net isn’t tied down at the bottom corners so you may want to secure it yourself – just so it doesn’t blow about in the wind.

That said, for a 10 by 10 feet living space for entertaining or simply to relax in the shade on a hot sunny day, the Sonoma is amazing value for money and affordable enough to suit any budget.

This was a no-brainer for our top pick.

What We Like:

  • Includes a Mosquito Screen and an Outside Cover | They have independent zippers and they’re detachable too. You can basically customize your soft top gazebo any way you like.
  • Sturdy, Wind Resistant Construction | The high-grade, powder-coated steel frame is very sturdy. Two holes in the square base of each leg, allow you to bolt or anchor the gazebo to secure it.

Buying Factors to Consider:

While the canvas fabric isn’t completely waterproof, a simple scotch guard spray will completely waterproof the fabric for you.

It should go without saying, though, that you shouldn’t allow any water to build upon the roof or it may distort your fabric.

Best Alternative Soft Top Gazebo with Privacy Curtains and Mosquito Net: Grand Patio Gazebo (10×13′)

The Grand Patio Gazebo is our alternative top pick.

It’s similar to the Sonoma we’ve just looked at, but there are a few differences that may appeal to you more.

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Firstly, you’ll notice it’s rectangular in shape. At 10 by 13 feet, it’s a little larger than our previous choice. Though there is also a 10 by 10 feet version to choose from.

The 10 by 13 feet version we fave featured above, is a beautiful cool gray, which may, or may not, match your outdoor decor more.

The gazebo comes with zippered bug and mosquito protection as well as a zippered privacy curtain.

The fabric itself is heavy-duty, PA-coated polyester, which is water-resistant, UV protected, and fade-resistant, offering you 99% UV protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

Like our top choice, it has a sturdy construction. The columns and frame are made from rust and corrosion-resistant aluminum, and powder-coated steel.

Once properly secured, either with screws or anchors, this gazebo will hold up well in windy conditions.

The canopy has a netted wind vent which prevents heat from building up inside.

What We Like:

  • Includes a Mosquito Screen and an Outside Cover | Like our top choice, they have independent zippers and they’re detachable so you can customize your soft top gazebo as needed.
  • Heavy-Duty Fabric | The fabric is PA-coated polyester, which is water-resistant, UV protected, and fade-resistant, offering you 99% UV protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
  • Sturdy Construction | The columns and frame are made from rust and corrosion-resistant aluminum, and powder-coated steel.

Best Soft Top Gazebo with Mosquito Net: Sunjoy Regency II Patio Gazebo (10 x 12′)

This soft-top gazebo with its decorative black steel frame is already the most elegant and pretty gazebo we have seen.

But it gets better. It comes in three gorgeous colors, hunter green, maroon, and chocolate brown. And if that’s not enough to sway you, it also has built-in features such as 4 corner shelves, 4 plant rings on the outside corners, and a center ring to hook up a light or fan.

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So you can add your own personal touches to make it a truly stunning feature of your outdoor space.

The 100% polyester fabric roof is water-and-fire-resistant and the canopied roof has a built-in netted vent.

What we love about this gazebo is the way that the zippered mosquito netting is designed to go around the outside of the corner posts.

It may seem like the most logical way to design the curtain, but the Sonoma gazebo above has netting on the inside that unless you do a bit of DIY to tie the net to the posts at the bottom, the net tends to blow about in the wind.

Like our previous picks, this gazebo will need to be secured – either with screws, bolts or anchors and once secured, it will stand up well to windy weather.

What We Like:

  • Decorative Black Steel Frame | The frame is functional, sturdy, and pretty too. It even has corner shelves built-in to the design.
  • Zippered Mosquito Netting | Designed to go around the outside of the corner posts so it won’t blow about in the wind.
  • Good Color Choice | The color options will brighten up any outdoor space.
  • Additional Features | The 4 corner shelves, 4 plant rings on the outside corners, and a center ring to hook up a light or fan extra are all extra features that will make it easy to dress your gazebo beautifully.

Best Wind, Weather, and Fade – Resistant Soft Top Gazebo – Sunbrella*: EliteShade Sunbrella Titan Patio Gazebo

If you live in an extremely sunny location, chances are, even the most UV-resistant fabric will fade on your gazebo, if that is, it’s not made of Sunbrella fabric

We’ve talked about, or rather raved about, Sunbrella fabric here at Comfy Zen before.

It’s a recurring feature of the highest quality outdoor furniture you can get, including lounge chairs, outdoor bean bags, throw pillows, and more – and for good reason.

Sunbrella is more than a fabric – it basically a technology.

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So here’s the big deal:

If you’ve heard of Sunbrella you’ll have also heard of its outstanding reputation for quality and durability.

You see, Sunbrella isn’t just a fabric that’s dyed on the surface like all the rest. It’s made from acrylic fibers that are actually dyed all the way through.

Now, these dye pigments are highly UV-resistant, mold-resistant, and mildew-resistant.

That means, the fabric won’t fade, and any mold won’t stick. It will just wipe clean away – you can even clean Sunbrella with bleach, and and it’s machine washable too.

Sunbrella fabric is also breathable, which means it will feel much cooler to sit under, on hot sunny days.

…And on not so sunny days? Sunbrella is water repellant so a sudden down poor isn’t going to leave you with a soggy leaking canopy.

To be frank, Sunbrella products do cost more than those made with regular UV-resistant fabrics, but the beautiful orange of this EliteShade Sunbrella gazebo, shown below, won’t fade to a non-descript sickly pink after just a few seasons in the sun. Sunbrella fabric will easily last 10 to 15 years.

And this soft top gazebo is strong too. Anchor it down, and this one isn’t going anywhere in strong winds.

The frame is constructed of powder-coated, heavy-gauge extruded aluminum

…And we love that it’s wrapped in a coffee bean-colored rattan. The perfect match for your rattan furniture.

What We Like:

  • Sunbrella Fabric | This fabric is highly UV-resistant, mold-resistant, and mildew-resistant. It’s also water repellant and should last around 10 -15 years.
  • Rattan Frame Design | It’s very high-end looking and sturdy too. It’s made from powder-coated, heavy-gauge, extruded aluminum, wrapped in a coffee bean-colored rattan.  

Buying Factors to Consider:

While the EliteShade Titan Gazebo is a more considered purchase, it will last and look new for years to come. It’s well worth the investment.

Best Pop Up / Portable Soft Top Gazebo: COOL Spot Pop-Up Gazebo Tent (11 x11′)

The Cool Spot pop-up gazebo is completely portable.

It’s lightweight and even comes with its own carry bag, so it’s ideal for camping, day trips, or if you’re not feeling adventurous, simply for hot sunny days relaxing at home.

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What we love about the Cool Spot is that it’s so easy and convenient to store away for the winter months or on windy wet days.

That means, unlike others that are intended to be left in place and would, therefore, take some take serious dismantling, this gazebo is likely to give you years of good use and you don’t have to worry about whether it will survive a storm.

So let’s look at the details.

The canopy is made from water-resistant and CPAI-84 flame-resistant 150D Oxford fabric which offers UPF 50+ UV protection against the sun’s harmful rays.

It also comes with a mosquito net that’s zippable on all four sides.

The frame is high-grade engineered steel and it’s powder-coated for rust resistance and durability.

It comes with ropes and stakes to secure the tent. But we recommend extra measures to secure it against sudden gusts of wind.

It’s easy to assemble, though we recommend more than one person to help assemble it.

What We Like:

  • Portable | It’s lightweight and even comes with its own carry bag, so it’s ideal for camping, and day trips, etc. It even comes with its own carry bag.
  • Affordable | It’s a great low-budget option, and if you don’t leave it up during very windy weather or over the winter months, it should last you for years.

Buying Factors to Consider:

You definitely need to secure it, but with non-permanent fixings as it’s not intended to be left up permanently. And you do need more than one person to put it together. But look after this gazebo and it should last you for years.

Other Soft Top Gazebos We’ve Reviewed:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Pop-Up Gazebo

Quick Set 9281 Escape Shelter Popup Tent

This one is great for camping trips and days out.

Key Features:

  • Sets up in 45 seconds and is ready to use right out of the box.
  • Built-in mosquito net.
  • Includes tent stakes, tie-down ropes, and an oversized carry bag
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Pavillion Style

This has a very stylish, high-end look and it comes with a built-in serving shelf.

Key Features:

  • Stylish railing with built-in shelf.
  • Steel and aluminum construction is rust and chip-resistant, with a powder-coated finish.
  • Take a closer look below.
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Sunjoy

Sunjoy 10′ x 12′ Monterey Gazebo

Similar to the Sunjoy Regency from our top pick list. It does have a slightly different look to it.

Key Features:

  • The curved metal pattern on each of the corner panels.
  • Easy to clean, 100% polyester canopy.
  • Zippered Mosquito Netting is designed to go around the outside of the corner posts so it won’t blow about in the wind.
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Portable with Wheeled Carry Bag

PHI VILLA 13’x13′ UV Block Sun Shade Canopy

Ideal for shade on the go.

Key Features:

  • Easy to put up.
  • 100% waterproof material with reinforced rust-proof frame.
  • Great Budget option
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Pop-Up Gazebo


Suntime Outdoor Pop Up Gazebo

This one also comes with a wheeled carry bag and it has a bug screen and even comes with solar-powered lights.

Key Features:

  • 150D polyester fabric that is water and UV-resistant, UPF 80+, blocks 95% of UV rays. It is also CPAI84 certified, fire-retardant.
  • It features 4 LED solar-powered lights.
  • 4 zippered mesh sidewalls
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Filed Under: Home Furnishings

The Best Stained Glass Grinder for 2022

March 30, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

This is a quick guide to the best stained glass grinder. Maybe you want to use the copper foil method for your stained glass projects and you need the edges of your glass to be super smooth without any burrs. Or maybe you want to make perfectly shaped pattern pieces for mosaics etc. Either way, we’ve selected the best ones on the market today.

Stained glass grinders are simple in design and while they do all look pretty similar, some grinders, do have features that make them much easier to work with, as well as more efficient than others.

Before we take a look at the best ones out there, you should know that just like tile saws, lapidary saws, and cabbing machines, etc they do all require water to operate. This is to cool the glass and protect and cool the grinding bit, as well as prevent glass dust from becoming airborne.

So to get started, we’ll take a look at the most popular stained glass grinders on the market and take you through what exactly makes the best stand out from the rest.

Editor’s award Brand
Best All-round Stained Glass Grinder Gryphon Convertible Professional Stained Glass Grinder
Runner Up for the Best Stained Glass Grinder Glastar All Star G8 Grinder
Best Budget Stained Glass Ginder Gryphon Studio Stained Glass Grinder
Best Mini Stained Glass Grinder Gryphon Gryphette Diamond Glass Grinder

Click below to jump to each topic in this guide.

  • Best All-round Stained Glass Grinder
  • Runner Up for the Best Stained Glass Grinder
  • Best Budget Stained Glass Ginder
  • Best Mini Stained Glass Grinder
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Other Stained Glass Grinders We’ve Reviewed
  • Accessories and Essential Equipment

Best All-Round Stained Glass Grinder: Gryphon Convertible Professional Stained Glass Grinder

The Gryphon Convertible is our well-deserved top pick not least because it has a simple but ingenious two-position design so that you can work either in the flat position or at a comfortable 30 ° angle – ideal for those who feel more comfortable working while sitting down.

This can be achieved simply by rotating the base 180 degrees.

But what truly sets it apart from more basic models, however, is its highly efficient water cooling system whereby, regardless of the angle you work at, a hose drips a constant supply of water directly over the grinding bit to keep it cool.

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This eliminates the need for the wet sponge method of cooling the grinding bit that the majority of power grinders use.

The Gryphon Convertible does give you the option to use a sponge if you wish, and when used, it’s held in position against the grinding bit via the winged brackets behind the bit.

So what’s the deal?

While grinders that use sponges work perfectly well and many glass artists are happy using this method, this is no longer necessary with a grinder that has a built-in water pump, and to be frank, it just makes life so much easier than having to deal with a sponge that so easily clogs up with sludge (glass dust) reducing the life of your bit.

Several YouTube tutorials on how to rig up a homemade device (usually involving a plastic bottle) to drip water onto the bit are a testament to the inefficiency of the sponge.

The sponge method also requires you to make sure the sponge is kept consistently wet, or in the case of cheaper basic stained glass grinders, (which we don’t recommend even for beginners,) physically hold the sponge against the grinder bit while holding your pattern piece in your other hand.

After all, for any skill level – but especially if you are new to the craft – the last thing you want is to be wrestling with a wet sponge when you need to concentrate on smoothing and shaping your pattern pieces.

The grinder has a 0.67 amp DC motor capable of 3000 rpm and it delivers 67 oz. per inch torque. That is slightly less RPM than the All Star’s 3,560 RPM’s that we’ll be will be looking at next, but it has an impressively higher torque – thanks to its 1/5 HP DC motor.

Simply put, it’s a powerful stained glass grinder – capable of heavy and prolonged use and even with denser glass or larger pattern pieces, you will get a smooth, clean edge every time.

Other features we love about this power grinder are the large 13.5″ by 10.5″ platform for working with larger pattern pieces and the included addition of a second-story platform.

This comes in handy when working on small scale projects when a second (smaller) grinding bit is installed above the primary grinding bit.

The second story platform takes seconds to install. It clips onto the lower platform when required and the water hose can easily be adjusted accordingly.

The Convertible comes with two diamond bits. One 1″ grinding bit for general use and one 1/4″ grinding bit for finer detailed work, – the grinder is also compatible with other bit sizes too.

What We Like:

  • Unique Adjustable Angle | Not everyone feels comfortable (or is able) to work standing up so having the option to adjust the angle of the grinder so that you can work sitting down is a great feature – and clearly shows the grinder was designed with thought for the user.
  • Two Grinder Bits Included | It’s worth pointing out that cheaper models only come with one grinding bit.
  • Highly Efficient Water Cooling System | It has a built-in water pump that drips a constant supply of water directly over the grinding bit to keep it cool. This is a feature that cheaper and more basic models don’t have.
  • Second-Story Platform Included | This comes in handy when working on small scale projects – when a second (smaller) grinding bit is installed above the primary grinding bit.
  • High-Torque Motor | It won’t slow down under pressure or prolonged use. The grinder has a powerful 1/5 HP DC motor which is capable of 3000 RPM and delivers 67 oz. per inch torque.

Buying Factors to Consider:

While not the cheapest stained glass grinder on the market, it’s excellent value for money (and cheaper) than our runner-up. And to be frank, it’s well worth the investment. Grinders are not a piece of equipment that get more complicated to use the higher your skill level.

The better features, most notably the built-in water pump, make these higher-spec power grinders much more user friendly especially for those new to the craft, who just want to concentrate on shaping edges and smoothing out burrs.

And don’t forget you do get 2 (most commonly used) grinder bits included with the kit which adds to the overall value of this option.

The Gryphon has a five-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.

Runner Up for the Best Stained Glass Grinder: Glastar All Star G8 Grinder

The Glastar All Star G8 Grinder has all the features you’d expect from a quality stained glass grinder.

It supplies an impressive running speed of 3,650 RPM and a 42 in-oz maximum torque thanks to its 1/9 HP motor.

So it’s more than capable of holding up to heavy duty grinding and can handle frequent and prolonged use with ease.

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It does cost a little more than our top choice which is why it missed our top spot but it’s an exceptionally well-made machine and does have a couple of features along with a higher RPM that may appeal to some stained glass artists.

This model has a built-in accessory drawer to keep everything tidy and in one place. It has an adjustable straight edge guide for precise grinding of straight edge pattern pieces and it also has a flexible rubber splash guard – handy when working with irregular or awkwardly- shaped pattern pieces.

Additionally, it features a large 8″ x 9″ scratch-resistant eye shield (though this isn’t a replacement for your safety glasses).

Like our top pick, it has superior bit cooling by means of a built-in water pump which eliminates the need for a sponge. Though again you can, if you like, use a sponge and there is a built-in holder specifically for the purpose.

The G8 doesn’t skimp on features. It has a large working surface of 11″ x 13″, a second story mini table for small and delicate pattern pieces and it comes with two grinding bits, a 1″ and a 1/4″ bit.

What We Like:

  • Built-in Water Pump | It has a highly efficient water cooling system using a built-in water pump to keep the grinding bit cool. Again, this is a feature that cheaper, more basic models don’t have.
  • Second-Story Platform Included | This comes in handy when working with small and delicate pattern pieces. A second (smaller) grinding bit can be installed above the primary grinding bit. The mini table can then be quickly and conveniently clipped onto the main platform when you want to use the smaller bit higher up.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is an excellent choice and we have nothing negative to say about it. It does cost more than our top pick but is a well made sturdy machine. You may just want to consider whether the few extra features are worth the extra cost.

The Glastar All Star G8 Grinder comes with a full 5-year warranty

Best Budget Stained Glass Ginder: Gryphon Studio Stained Glass Grinder

The Gryphon Studio is ideal for any skill level but comes with a more affordable – entry-level price tag.

While there’s no water pump with this model, it does have its own gravity-fed water cooling tower that meters water directly onto the sponge to keep the grinding bit cool – most grinders rely on the sponge to draw water up for the reservoir below.

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This is a much more efficient method. And if you choose to mount a second grinding bit over the first? Both heads will be kept wet – even if the heads are different diameters.

Despite the lower price point, you get the same powerful 1/5 HP DC motor as the Gryphon Convertable which is capable of 3000 RPM and delivers 67 oz. per inch torque.

That means the motor won’t stall as soon as you put more pressure on the bit.

The Studio only comes with one (1″) grinding bit and the platform surface area is a little smaller at 9.75” by 9” but that’s only likely to be a limiting factor if you consistently work with large pattern pieces.

What We Like:

  • Affordable Option for a Stained Glass Grinder | There’s quite a big jump up in price to the Gryphon Convertable, making this a great option for beginners or those on a budget.
  • High-Torque Motor | Despite the lower price point, you get the same powerful 1/5 HP DC motor as the Gryphon Convertable which is capable of 3000 RPM and delivers 67 oz. per inch torque.
  • Gravity-fed Water Cooling Tower | This allows water to drip directly onto the sponge to keep the grinding bit cool.

Buying Factors to Consider:

To sum up, you’re getting a great little grinder with this option. You’ll have the same amount of power behind this glass grinder as our top choice.

You are compromising on some accessories like the second story platform, an extra grinding bit, table size, and you don’t get a water pump but the essentials are there and it’s a great machine for a low price.

Best Mini Stained Glass Grinder: Gryphon Gryphette Diamond Glass Grinder

This is the ideal stained glass grinder for those who work on small-scale stained glass projects, are limited on space, or for those who would like to have an additional power grinder – perfect if you want to have a second grinder set up with your favorite specialist bit.

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For its small size, the Gryphon Gryphette has a powerful 0.67 amp motor delivering 3000 RPM. So you don’t need to worry about a step down in performance.

The 6.75” by 6.75” platform has an integrated space to hold the sponge which keeps the bit cool by drawing water from the reservoir below.

The Gryphette comes with one 3/4″ bit but is also compatible with other sizes too.

What We Like:

  • Compact Size | Its size makes it perfect for occasional glass artists, students, or for the classroom. It’s also great for those who want a second machine.
  • Powerful Motor | You’d expect a mini grinder to have a much less powerful motor but the Gryphon Gryphette has a powerful 0.67 amp motor delivering 3000 RPM.

Alternative Stained Glass Grinders:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Inland

Inland Wiz CG Stained Glass Grinder

Not to be confused with the WizlingCG, this one is a little more powerful.

Key Features:

  • 30 oz.-in. torque motor.
  • Lift off reservoir – easy to remove for quick cleaning.
  • Includes ¾” and ¼” diamond grinding bits.
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Diamond Tech

Diamond Tech Studio Pro Grinder

You get a whopping 6-year warranty with this power grinder. It has a Super Sponge water cooling system.

Key Features:

  • 1/4″ and 1″ silver bullet bits included.
  • Powerful 1/8 HP, 2300 RPM Motor. Torque: .42 N.m Watts.
  • Includes a light.
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GLASTAR Superstar II

GLASTAR Superstar II Glass Grinder

It’s a step down from the All Star but it’s a decent machine and much more affordable.

Key Features:

  • The work surface is 8″ x 9″.
  • 1/12 HP motor.
  • Roller-type adjustable straight edge guide.
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Accessories and Essential Equipment:

Professional Seven Piece Stained Glass Tool Kit

Great for getting started with stained glass cutting.

It includes everything you need for stained glass, glass fusing, and mosaic glasswork.

Key Features:

  • Includes a 50 min instructional video.
  • Spring-loaded handles on the Breaking and Grozer Pliers
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You will need to add a stained glass coolant to the water:

Stained Glass Coolant

Coolant for grinder water reservoir

You will need to add a stained glass coolant to the water in your grinder’s reservoir.

Key Features:

  • Increases coolness.
  • Increases the life of the diamond bits.
  • Faster cleaner cutting.

Size: 8 Oz. bottle.

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Premium Glass Cutting Oil

Premium Glass Cutting Oil

This is not just regular mineral oil, it’s custom-formulated for glass cutting. It prolongs cutter blade/bit/wheel life, makes cleaner cuts.

Key Features:

  • Suitable for virtually any glass cutting project.
  • A twist top provides maximum ease of use.
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Copper Foil Tape 

Copper Foil Tape 

72 Yard Pack with Conductive Adhesive.

Key Features:

  • Suitable for indoors or outdoors.
  • Two roll pack.
  • Its 1/4” width is the perfect amount of overlap for standard stained glass (1/8”).
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Stained Glass Sheets

Blue Variety Stained Glass Pack

This variety pack has some gorgeous shades of blue.

And if you need a nifty and safe way to store your glass sheets, hop over to our craft organizer guide and head down to the bottom of the page.

Key Features:

  • 6″ x 8″ sheets.
  • Pack contains eight different pieces.
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Lastly, if you like some inspiration, hop over to our reading room, we have some good book recommendations.

Filed Under: Crafts

A Guide to the Coolest Mid Century Modern Furniture for All Budgets

March 23, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

1 Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Upholstered Fabric Loveseat 2 Batmerry Geometric Pillow Covers 3 Summitland 9 inch Wood Look Pendant Light 4 Rimdoc Triangle Glass Coffee Table 5 Telechron Atomic Ball Wall Clock 6 The Mid Century House Bird 7 Nearly Natural Fiddle Leaf Tree 8 Urban Furnishing Eames Chair Replica 9 Filled Orla Kiely Small Linear Leaf Stem cushion sham 10 Omysa Mid Century Plant Stand with Pot – All of the above are our top mid-century modern picks from Amazon or Urban Furnishing

I have to confess, I’m a little bit obsessed with mid century modern design. But then, I know I’m in good company.

The distinctive style which emerged just after the first world war grew in popularity to such a degree, it went on to define 1950s America.

Design principles pioneered by architects, interior designers, product, and graphic designers produced a collective style that has subsequently been acknowledged as a “significant design movement” by museums and design critics.

While other trends have become resigned to the past, mid century modern, (a term coined by Cara Greenberg in her book Mid-Century Modern: Furniture of the 1950s), has seen an ever-growing resurgence in popularity that isn’t going away any time soon.

And that’s simply because it’s good design.

In architecture, mid-century modern (MCM) denotes open and informal living spaces with large full-length windows that bring nature in.

Interiors are simple if not minimalist in style. Natural textures such as wood, mix and contrast with modern materials like plywood, glass, metal, plastic, and plexiglass.

One of the most distinguishing aspects of the movement is its bold palette of rich, earthy tones that both complement and contrast plain areas of gray, black, or taupe.


Sputnik Chandelier by BONLICHT form Amazon

Space-age inspired geometric patterns lighten the tone but are confined to accessories, drapes, rugs or throw pillows.

MCM is the perfect way to design a room. You don’t need to go all out, just choose your furniture well and add one or two elements to enhance the look if you wish.

Amazon has a wonderful selection of mid-century furniture and accessories, including the famous Vitra Eames House Bird (if you want to keep things authentic) but more affordable replicas are also available or you could always make your own.

Note:

If you’d like free printable mid century modern wall art, to complete your look, you are welcome to download some from my printable page – all my printables are free, and no sign-up is required.

Ok so let’s get started, we’ll now take a look at a selection of the best affordable mid-century modern furniture out there.

Our Guide to Best Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Click below to jump to each topic in this guide.

  • The Best Mid-Century Modern Sofas
  • The Best Mid-Century Modern Chairs
  • The Best Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables
  • Frequently Asked Questions

The Best Mid-Century Modern Sofas

There’s nothing bean bag chair slouchy about a mid-century modern sofa – they’re not designed for you to sink in to. They are, firm – but that doesn’t mean they’re not comfortable.

They’re also very supportive for your back as they encourage you to sit with a good posture.

Here are top picks.

Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Upholstered Fabric Sofa or Loveseat

Azure

The Engage is the perfect blend of mid century modern style with contemporary design. You can see elements of Edward Wormley’s curved sofas, though this isn’t a direct copy of any of them.

This sofa will suit all tastes. With twelve fabric color options to choose from, you can go bold with atomic red, citrus, teal or wheatgrass or choose one of the more grounded foundation colors like gray, beige or oatmeal to contrast and complement the accessories you add.

We particularly love the chunky cherrywood-finished legs and frame which provide a sturdy base for the 6-inch-high polyester upholstered cushions.

The sofa is available as a love seat, full-size sofa, or armchair ( which we’ve featured below) and ottoman.

Key Features:

  • Wide Choice of Color Options and Sizes | Twelve fabric color options to choose from. There’s basically a color to suit every taste.
  • Sturdy wooden frame | The frame and legs are particularly sturdy with a nice cherrywood-finish – in keeping with the MCM style.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Modway Engage range on Amazon.

Modway Remark Mid-Century Modern Sofa

How gorgeous is this? We are completely in love with the colored buttons on this curvy tufted sofa. It’s the perfect way to inject some color into a living room without the need for accessories.

There’s a matching armchair for this sofa or if space is limited, you could go for the smaller loveseat.

Key Features:

  • Tufted Back with Colored Button | A great way to add color without the need for throw pillows, etc.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Modway Remark Mid-Century Modern Sofa on Amazon.

Rivet Aiden Mid-Century Sofa

This sofa has that authentic first edition vibe going on – it certainly looks like a mint condition vintage piece from the 1950s MCM era.

It’s sophisticated and arty and either the fabric version, shown above, or the beautiful velvet option would nicely complement a Barcelona chair replica.

Though the seat cushions are attached, the back seat cushions are removable for easy cleaning and they’re reversible too.

The low-profile sofa comes in a range of sizes right up to 86.6 inches long.

Key Features:

  • Removable Back Seat Cushions | For easy cleaning. They’re reversible too.
  • Large Sofa Size | There are a few options to choose from, the largest is over 7-feet long.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Rivet Aiden Mid-Century Sofa on Amazon.

Rivet Cove Mid-Century Modern Tufted Sofa

We couldn’t show you a selection of MCM sofas without a Florence Knoll inspired couch. Florence Knoll was an important American architect, interior designer, and furniture designer of the mid-century modern movement.

This, very recognizable, sofa style is a copy of or inspired by, the Knoll sofa.

The back is a little higher than our last choice which may suit some people better. It’s also a little less firm to sit on too.

It’s well-made with a sturdy hardwood frame and solid beech wood legs. It comes either as a full-size sofa, or a love-seat and there is also a matching armchair.

Key Features:

  • Higher Back | Many MCM sofas tend to have low profiles. This style has a back that is a little higher than most in the style.
  • Sturdy Hardwood Frame | With solid beech wood legs.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Rivet Cove Mid-Century Modern Tufted Sofa on Amazon.

Stone & Beam Hillman Mid-Century Sofa

MCM sofas tend to be structured in form. The curvy appearance being part of the frame’s design, rather than anything to do with the cushioning itself.

If you want a sofa that has softer cushions but is still in keeping with the midcentury modern look, this is the sofa you should choose.

Key Features:

  • Solid Hardwood Frame | With the on-trend tapered wood legs.
  • Removable and Reversible Back Cushions | Made from 85% polyester and 15% acrylic.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Stone & Beam Hillman Mid-Century Sounds fa on Amazon.

The Best Mid-Century Modern Chairs

A great interior design trick is to add an accent chair – but one that isn’t just the armchair that matches the couch. There are a few exceptions. The Modway Remark with its colored buttons is one – a contrasting style with this sofa could risk giving you a jumbled look.

Generally speaking, however, to really make a statement, you should change things up a bit. This is your opportunity to give your room its personality, and if you’re brave enough, to add a bright splash of color too.

Another good reason to mix things up is that you can easily overemphasize a design. For example, imagine a perfectly lovely but, quite boxily designed, sofa. Add in a matching chair and the whole room would start to look a little …well, boxy.

By adding a contrasting accent chair you can soften the look and you’ll be taking a leaf out of the best interior designers’ handbook.


Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Accent Arm

This is the armchair that matches our top sofa pick. Though generally speaking, you should choose a different accent chair to your sofa, this one would work well as a set.

The reason being it’s has a simple, soft curvy design that isn’t boxy or out there in any way. That means the overall look isn’t something that will overpower your room.

And for a different style of sofa, this would make a great accent chair.

Key Features:

  • Wide Choice of Color Options and Sizes | Again, this chair comes in a choice of twelve different fabric color options. There’s basically a color to suit every taste and it’s the perfect way to contrast a gray sofa with a splash of color.
  • Sturdy wooden frame | The frame and legs are particularly sturdy with a nice cherrywood-finish – in keeping with the MCM style.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Accent Arm on Amazon.

Zenvida Mid Century Modern Accent Armchair

You might be forgiven for thinking this a just modern-day take on the MCM style. It has a Scandinavian vibe mixed with mid-century modern design.

Although not an exact replica of the classic 1956 Hans J Wegner Lounge chair for Getama (GE-270), it is very close to the original design.

Scandinavian mid-century modern was an important and parallel design movement that overlapped MCM in many ways. While some designs of the period were definitely one style and not the other, vintage Scandinavian MCM collectibles command a much higher price tag than non-MCM Scandinavian pieces alone.

This chair is most definitely Scandinavian Mid Century Modern.

It’s available in either the soft velvety green you see here or a gorgeous shade of velvet pale blue. It has a rubberwood frame with a dark brown finish.

Key Features:

  • Based on a 1950s Design | Though the chair is not original, it is based on an actual 1950s design.
  • Sturdy Wooden Frame | It has a well-made rubberwood frame with a dark brown finish.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Zenvida Mid Century Modern Accent Armchair on Amazon.


Rocket – Mid Century Modern Accent Lounge Arm Chair

This replica of the famous 1950s Z chair is another prime example of Scandinavian MCM design. The Z chair is attributed to the somewhat mysterious designer, Poul Jensen (there is virtually no information about him). The chair, however, remains as iconic as it ever was.

The Rocket’s Z-style frame is crafted from solid rubberwood and the fabric is a vibrant mix of texture and color that, in the version above, gives the chair an overall orangy hew.

Though there is a matching sofa, I think this one is all the better for being showcased alone.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Rocket – Mid Century Modern Accent Lounge Arm Chair on Amazon.

Amazon Brand – Rivet Farr Lotus Accent Chair

This soft curvy accent chair is a great way to complement a boxy sofa. It’s both arty and informal in style, and it’s one of the few MCM chairs that doesn’t have arms.

If like me, you’re into crafting, you could sit with your feet up, beading loom on your knee, or weave, knit or just chill.

Click to check the current price for the Amazon Brand – Rivet Farr Lotus Accent Chair on Amazon.

Fat June Tristan Accent Chair

This channel-tufted high-quality Pu leather lounge chair is reminiscent of the 1956 Hans J Wegner Lounge chair for Getama (GE-270).

It ticks all the right boxes combining a structured solid (walnut-stained) wood frame with the soft contours of the overstuffed, natural leather (look) cushioning.

It’s the perfect combination of form and function.

Click to check the current price for the Fat June Tristan Accent Chair on Amazon.

Mid Century Plywood Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Urban Furnishing

Along with the Barcelona chair, we’ll be looking at next, perhaps the most famous and recognizable mid-century modern chair is the Eames chair and ottoman. This is an exceptionally high-quality replica of the Eames chair which was officially titled Eames Lounge (670) and Ottoman (671).

Designed in 1956, the original chair and ottoman now reside in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

If you like this style of chair you should hop over to my replica Eames chair guide for a more detailed look at the design.

Or click to check the current price and other color options for the Mid Century Plywood Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Urban Furnishing.


eMod – Modern Pavilion Barcelona Chair Replica

Another great icon of MCM furniture design is the Barcelona chair.

Designed in 1929, it’s one of the earliest pieces of the MCM era and its designer, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, was one of the pioneering architects who helped define the movement.

I have this chair or rather this replica chair. I love the cool contemporary look, and being a bit of a geek, I love the heritage behind a chair that was originally designed in 1929.

The Barcelona replica chair featured above was our top pick in our Barcelona chair replica review. If you like the design of this chair, hop over to our review of the best replicas.

Or click to check the current price and other color options for the eMod – Modern Pavilion Barcelona Chair Replica on Amazon.

The Best Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables

Adding a mid-century modern coffee, or side table is an easy way to accentuate the theme. Let’s take a look at some designs which are typical of the mid-century modern style.

Rimdoc Triangle Glass Coffee Table

Designed in 1944 by the Japanese designer Isamu Noguchi, the iconic Noguchi coffee table, of which this is an excellent replica, consists of just three parts: a curved triangular glass top and two interlocking wood pieces for the base.

This mid-century modern replica is made from tempered glass and has a solid wood frame.

You can choose from a range of stained finishes to match with your MCM splayed wooden, sofa or accent chair legs. Color options include dark walnut, walnut, cherry, wood (light) or black.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Rimdoc Triangle Glass Coffee Table on Amazon.

Christopher Knight Home Caspar Walnut Wood Coffee Table

This curvy egg-shaped coffee table is typical of the organic shapes that are so prominent in MCM design.

It’s simple, elegant and minimalist, and there are no sharp corners to take your shins out when you walk past.

It’s made from rubberwood, which is a medium-density tropical hardwood with a walnut stain.

Click to check the current price for the Christopher Knight Home Caspar Walnut Wood Coffee Table on Amazon.


Safavieh Home Collection Olida

A much more à la mode version of a nest of tables is this set of two occasional tables. They work, well grouped together to make a coffee table and the great thing about them is that they can be separated and moved easily if you have company.

The smaller of the two nestles neatly under the larger one, and if you need more table surface you can easily pull it out a little – a bit like a draw.

The rounded corners are great for softening a boxy couch and the light color will lighten a darker room.

Click to check the current price for the Safavieh Home Collection Olida on Amazon.

WE Furniture Mid Century Modern Hairpin Coffee Table Set

And lastly, how about this simple, elegant mid-century modern hairpin legged coffee table set?

Today hairpin legs are bang-on-trend, but they actually date back to 1941.

They were commonly used in mid-century design. The mix of natural wood with modern industrial materials was one of the founding principles behind the movement.

These tables are not fully nestable, but that said, they would look aesthetically less pleasing if they were.

Click to check the current price for the WE Furniture Mid Century Modern Hairpin Coffee Table Set on Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What period does mid century modern cover?

Mid-century modern was an important design movement, pioneered by architects, product and graphic designers, as well as interior designers.

The style evolved during the first half of the 1930s and it continued into the early 1960s. It reached its height of popularity during the 1950s.

Why do people love mid-century modern style so much?

Mid-century modern (MCM) design is based on good design principles.

In architecture, it creates open living spaces with large full-length windows that bring the outside in.

Mid-century modern interiors blend and contrast natural materials and textures, such as wood, with industrial materials like glass, plywood, metal, plastic, and plexiglass.

Blocks of foundation colors like gray, black, or neutral, complement and contrasted a bold palette of earthy tones.

Accents of space-age inspired geometric patterns lighten the tone and add creativity – giving the overall look a cool, chic appeal.

What is the color palette of mid-century modern design?

Mid-century modern design has a bold but earthy color palette with some bright colors here and there.

Dark gray is a typical foundation color, which mixes with, and contrasts, bold colors like chartreuse, teal, burnt orange, brick red, terracotta or cream.

Other combinations including light teal and brown, or mustard and blue also work well together.

Is Scandinavian furniture mid-century modern?

Scandinavian mid-century modern design ran concurrently with the mid-century modern design movement.

The two movements overlapped considerably. Some, although not all, Scandinavian designers of the period designed furniture that would most definitely be considered mid-century modern furniture.

The two styles are very similar, though the Scandinavian color palette is lighter with more white, pale pink, pale blue, and black to a lesser degree.

For more inspiration and mid century modern interior design ideas, hop over to our reading room.

Meow

Filed Under: Home Décor

The Best Spinning Wheel for 2022

March 17, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

This is a straight-to-the-point guide to choosing the best spinning wheel. If you are a fiber artist – a knitter, crocheter, or weaver, for example, and you want to take your craft to the next level, the single best way to do this is by spinning your very own yarn.

The joy of blending your own colors and textures, of two or more ply and then handmaking something unique and beautiful with yarn you’ve handspun, can never be matched by using a store-bought yarn.

While it must be said, that spinning is an art that does take a little practice to learn the various techniques – it is technically easier to set up and use a spinning wheel than it might first appear.

And one of the best things about it is that there is a real charm in the slightly uneven or slubby homespun yarns you produce.

Get yourself a good tapestry loom and you can make some stunning projects with it. After all, if you wanted perfectly uniform yarn you might as well have just bought it from a store.

And if you’d like a free printable yarn label, please do hop over to our free printable page.

So if you like the idea of spinning your own yarn but you’re a little bewildered by the many different makes and styles of spinning wheels out there, don’t worry, we are here to guide you through them. We’ll take a look at the best ones out there, and help you choose the right one for you.

To get started, let’s get familiar with the most common types of spinning wheels out there and that we have compared in this guide:

The Kromski Prelude

The Saxony Spinning Wheel

The Saxony spinning wheel is easily recognizable by the placement of the wheel which is positioned at one end of a sloping frame. This gives the Saxony its horizontal appearance.

The Ashford Traveller

It has the largest footprint of all the commonly used styles so it does take up a little room.

The Castle Spinning Wheel

Castle Spinning Wheels are distinguishable by their compact, vertical appearance. As you can see to the right, the flyer is positioned above the wheel.

The Schacht Matchless

Modern Spinning Wheels

Designed to improve on traditional spinning wheels, modern spinning wheels come in a variety of non-traditional styles.

Electric Spinners

The
Ashford E-Spinner 3

Since electric spinning wheels don’t require a flywheel or foot peddle to work, their compact size makes them great for traveling and easy to store away.

They are super fast and are easy to learn – since they don’t require the simultaneous hand and foot coordination required by traditional spinning wheels.

Charkha Wheels

The eTradeIndia
Spinning Wheel Book for Amazon

Charkhas are the oldest known type of spinning wheel. Worked on a tabletop or often on the floor, they have a hand-turned wheel and the yarn is spun off the tip of the spindle. They are more of a specialized niche and most suitable for spinning cotton and other fine fibers.

Editor’s award Brand
Our Top Pick – Best Affordable Option / Best for Beginners
Ashford Kiwi Spinning Wheel 3
Best Saxony Spinning Wheel for Beginners to Advanced Spinners
The Ashford Traditional
Best Affordable/Alternative Saxony Style Spinning Wheel
Kromski Prelude
Best Castle Spinning Wheel
Ashford Traveller Spinning Wheel
Best Electric Spinning Wheel
Ashford E-Spinner 3

Click below to jump to each section in this guide.

  • Our Top Pick – Best Affordable Option / Best for Beginners
  • Best Saxony Spinning Wheel for Beginners to Advanced Spinners
  • Best Affordable/Alternative Saxony Style Spinning Wheel
  • Best Castle Spinning Wheel
  • Best Electric Spinning Wheel
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Other Spinning Wheels We’ve Reviewed

Our Top Pick – Best Affordable Option / Best for Beginners: Ashford Kiwi Spinning Wheel 3

Ideal for all skill levels including complete beginners, the new Kiwi 3 is a nice step up from the ever-popular Kiwi 2. It can now be adjusted to 3 (instead of 2) different single drive ratios, (I’ll talk more about that in a second). It’s also now foldable, having folding treadles for portability and easy storage.

Check Price

As far as affordability goes, the Kiwi spinning wheel costs quite a lot less in comparison with many spinning wheels on the market. But that doesn’t mean there’s a compromise on features or quality. In fact, the new Kiwi 3 has a veneered wood finish on the flywheel, and that’s again, another step up from the Kiwi 2.

It’s super easy to use, having easy-learning ratios. This means the take-up won’t be too fast while you’re getting used to the spinning process. The 5.5, 7.5, and 9.5 to 1 flyer ratios are a measurement of how many times the flyer or bobbin spins per single revolution of the wheel. The higher the ratio the faster the yarn twists.

Generally speaking, you need a higher ratio for finer yarns, which require more twists, and a lower ratio for chunky yarns. So you see going fast isn’t always an advantage and this spinning wheel is great for spinners who want to spin chunky yarns or those just starting out in the craft. And if you get creative and want to spin either finer or super chunky yarns later on? There’s an inexpensive adapter kit to give you ratios of 7.5, 10, and 15 to 1 – suitable for finer yarns or you can add a super flyer kit with a huge 1⅛ inch orifice for spinning jumbo-sized yarns.

The double treadles are a nice feature too as they are easier on the legs and hips than a single treadle would be.

This single-drive, (Scotch tension) spinning wheel comes with 3 large 4-5ozs bobbins and a built-in Lazy Kate. 

And lastly, the central flyer is great for either right and left-handed spinners.

What We Like:

  • Great for Beginners or for Thicker Yarns | The 5.5, 7.5 and 9.5 to 1 flyer ratios mean the wheel doesn’t spin too quickly for beginners. It’s also great for medium to thicker weight yarns. And remember if you want to spin finer yarns you can always add an adapter kit.
  • Foldable and Portable | This is a great option for travel or simply for folding away at the end of the day. A big improvement on the Kiwi 2, are the foldable treadles.
  • Affordable Option | Spinning wheels do tend to be quite pricey, which is understandable given the workmanship involved. This option, however, is very affordable in comparison.
  • Double Treadles | Two treadles are much better for your legs than one. After all, spinning is a fairly lengthy process it can take several hours to spin enough yarn for a sweater.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Like virtually all spinning wheels, this one will require assembly. It will also require a finish to condition and protect the wood. That said, Ashford have very comprehensive instructions and so it’s not difficult to put it together.

Dimensions: 17½” wide, 28¾” tall, 19¾” deep.

Best Saxony Spinning Wheel for Beginners to Advanced Spinners: The Ashford Traditional Single Drive

If you’d like to learn to spin on a traditional Saxony-style spinning wheel, this is a great one to go for. Though Ashford sells a double drive option, we’ve specifically chosen the single drive.

That’s because with a single drive (one that has 1 drive band) you always have the option to convert it to a double drive if you wish. And the single drive is cheaper too.

Check Price

As a single-drive spinning wheel, the Ashford Traditional is easier for beginners to master. The Scotch tension system is just easier to get to grips with. Having a separately adjustable brake and drive band makes the control of the yarn twist and take-up much easier to handle.

The single drive ratios for this 4-speed flyer are 7, 9, 12, 17 to 1 which means this model can spin a wider variety of yarn thicknesses (including finer yarns) than the Kiwi featured above.

When used as a double drive, the ratios are 7.5, 10, and 14 to 1. Double drive spinning wheels increase yarn consistency and uniformity so it’s a nice option to have. And if you want to spin very chunky yarns, ply thick yarns or spin large quantities of yarn, you can always add a Jumbo Flyer.

We should warn you it’s not small, the wheel dimension is 22″ but it’s a beautiful piece so it’s not something you’d ever want put away. The Traditional comes with 4 large 4-5ozs bobbins and has a built-in Lazy Kate for plying. 

What We Like:

  • Single Drive Scotch Tension | With an option to use it as a double drive. Broadly speaking, single drives are great for beginners and double drives offer greater yarn consistency.
  • Good for a Wide Variety of Yarn Thicknessess | Ratio of 7, 9, 12, 17 to 1 means this model can spin a wider variety of yarn thicknesses including much finer yarns than the Kiwi.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This spinning wheel does cost more than our first option so it is a more considered purchase but it’s a beautiful spinning wheel and not something you’ll ever outgrow. If, however, you are on a budget, you might want to consider the Kromski Prelude, next.

The Traditional will require assembly, but it’s pretty straightforward forward and this option (which is cheaper), does require finishing. There is, however, a finished version of this spinning wheel though as you’d expect, it does cost more.

Check the latest price for The Ashford Traditional Single Drive on Amazon.

Best Affordable/Alternative Saxony Style Spinning Wheel: Kromski Prelude

Saxony spinning wheels tend to have a larger footprint than other styles. The Kromski Prelude, however, is more compact than most with a wheel diameter of just 18 inches.

What’s more, the mother-of-all even folds/swivels in line with the bench for storage or travel.

This makes the Prelude much easier to take to events or classes …And for those on a budget, it’s also more affordable too.

Check Price

This single-drive, Scotch tension spinning wheel combines all the traditionality of a Saxony style wheel with the features and optional extras, such as a jumbo flyer kit and fast flyer, to take it from a slower to mid-speed spinning wheel with whorl ratios of 6, 10.5 and 13 to 1 (great for beginners who are developing their skills), to a versatile spinning wheel with additional whorl ratios of 5.5, 7.9, 11, 14.5 & 16.5 to 1 – a spinning wheel capable of spinning most thicknesses of yarn.

The frame is made from unfinished European alder and birch wood and the Prelude comes with three 4 oz bobbins and a built-in Lazy Kate.

What We Like:

  • Affordable | The Kromski Prelude is a great option for those who would like a traditional Saxony-style spinning wheel without the high price tag that usually comes with one.
  • Good for a Wide Range of Yarn Thicknesses | It’s great for beginners but you won’t outgrow its capabilities and you can increase them even more with additional flyer options.
  • Compact Size | It’s one of the smallest Saxony Spinning wheels you can get and the mother-of-all can be folded in line with the bench. This makes the Prelude great for taking to events or classes.

Best Castle Spinning Wheel: The Ashford Traveller

The Ashford Traveller is cute as a button. A perfect blend of traditional design with modern style. It’s similar to the Traditional but the compact arrangement of the mother of all, positioned over the 18″ wheel makes it ideal for those who are limited on space.

Check Price

Available as either a single or double drive, this single drive Scotch tension wheel with whorl ratios of  6, 7.5, 10, 14 to 1 is ideal for spinning medium or finer yarns. And if you want to spin chunky yarns – you can just add a Jumbo Flyer. Other options include a lace flyer and a turbo kit so you’ll never feel limited by choosing this model.

One of the advantages this style has over the Traditional spinning wheel is that this one has double treadles. These are easier on the legs and hips than a the single treadle – especially over a prolonged period of time.

What We Like:

  • Compact Design | Ideal for those with more limited space.
  • Ideal For Medium to Finer Yarns | It’s ideal for spinning medium or finer yarns but with the addition of a Jumbo Flyer, you can spin chunky or thick yarns too.

Best Electric Spinning Wheel: Ashford E-Spinner 3

If you’d like an amazing little spinning machine that practically does all the hard work for you, this electric spinning wheel is the one for you.

And it’s great for anyone who would find treadling impractical or uncomfortable.

Check Price

Its compact size and light weight (only 4.4 lbs) make it ideal for travel. It even has its own padded carry bag with shoulder straps.

The E-Spinner comes complete with a tensioned lazy kate for plying and the machine is very easy to operate having just three control buttons – an on/off switch, a forward or reverse switch for plying and a fully adjustable speed dial so you can go as fast or as slow as you like – anywhere from 0 up to 1800 rpm.

The knob above the control buttons that you can see in the photo above opens the front gate so you can easily change your bobbin.

Included in the kit are three jumbo (8oz) bobbins, a tensioned lazy kate, one bottle of oil, and a handy on/off foot controller which you can use optionally.

Dimensions: 10¼ by 5½ by 8½ inches.

What We Like:

  • Motor for slow to Superfast Spinning Speeds | It has a quiet 12 volt DC 2.0 amp 70-watt motor that can give you a spinning speed of up to 1800 rpm – which is super fast for spinning.
  • Portable | It’s the smallest spinning wheel on the market – ideal for RV, caravan, or car, with an available adapter kit or power pack.
  • No Treadles | Great for those for whom treadling would be uncomfortable or impractical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best spinning wheel for a beginner?

Modern-day spinning wheels are generally well designed and built for easy use. So as a beginner, you can technically, learn to spin on any style of spinning wheel you like the look of or feel most comfortable with.

That said, you will need to take it slowly until you become more confident with the technique so you don’t want the take-up to be too fast.

Choosing one that has lower ratios of up to 10 to 1 (a measurement of how many times the flyer or bobbin spins per single revolution of the wheel) denotes a slower spinning wheel.

On a slower spinning wheel, you will be able to spin thicker yarns. Often there are adapter kits or flyer kits that you can easily add to enhance the capabilities and (for thinner yarns), increase the speed of your spinning wheel.

Alternative Spinning Wheels

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look.

And if you need somewhere to store and display your homespun yarn, hop over to our craft organizer guide.

The Flatiron Can Be Set up to All Three Tension Systems

Schacht Flatiron Spinning Wheel

This super modern Saxony-style wheel is fully customizable.

Key Features:

  • Set it up for Scotch tension, double drive, or Irish tension.
  • It can be adjusted to either have the flyer on the left or the right.
  • Super-versatile spinning ratios of 4.6:1 to 26:1
Check Price

Portable and Great for Beginners

Schacht Ladybug Double Treadle

It comes with medium and fast flyer whorls so it can be used for a wide range of ratios.

Key Features:

  • An optional attached tensioned Lazy Kate.
  • Ratios: 7, 9, 10.5 & 12.5 to 1.
  • Built-in carrying handles in the legs for portability.
Check Price

Foldable

Schacht Sidekick Spinning Wheel

This is a popular and portable spinning wheel.

Key Features:

  • It comes with fast and medium whorls for ratios of 4:1 to 13:1.
  • Scotch tension with a control knob.
  • Foldable treadles for portability.
Check Price

Comes with a Carry Bag – Great for Classes

Kromski Sonata Spinning Wheel Walnut

Though intended to be portable it’s a good, substantial spinning wheel.

Key Features:

  • It comes ready assembled with a padded travel backpack bag.
  • Walnut lacquered finish European alder and birch woods.
  • Single drive with Scotch tension.
Check Price

Traditional look in a compact upright design

Kromski Minstrel Mahogany

The Minstrel has a traditional look with a space-saving upright design.

Key Features:

  • It’s fully finished in mahogany.
  • It comes with 2 whorls for ratios of 6.5, 8.5, 12, and 16 to 1.
  • It comes with double drive and scotch tension.
Check Price

Filed Under: Crafts

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