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Buying Guides

Best Sofas for Your Vacation Rental

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Durability and comfort should be your top priorities when it comes to choosing a sofa for a vacation rental. Sofas that are made with durable, easy-to-clean fabrics such as leather, microfiber, or polyester, and those with sturdy frames that can withstand heavy use are the best way to go. After all, no one wants to deal with a saggy, stained couch in the midst of their relaxing getaway.

I’m a big fan of the open road and the thrill of discovering new places, and I know firsthand how important it is to have a comfortable and stylish place to kick back and relax after a long day of exploration. And as a host myself, I can attest to the importance of having a welcoming and well-appointed place for guests to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to test a variety of sofas, I can confidently say that I can easily spot a good candidate for an Airbnb or VRBO rental from the rest.

So first, let me introduce you to the kings and Queens of durable fabric sofas.

Velvet Sofas

Yep, velvet who knew? Now, to be clear, I’m not talking about “real” velvet, typically made from natural fibers like silk, cotton, or wool. No, I’m talking about velvet fabric made from the synthetic material polyester.

These sofas are surprisingly easier to clean compared to other types of fabric sofas, thanks to their synthetic fibers that resist spills and stains. And even if they do manage to get messed up, it’s easy to vacuum off any dirt and debris. Plus, the fibers are tightly woven, so they don’t hold onto grime like more open-weave materials do.

And if you really want to get your velvet sofa back to looking like new, you can use a little soap and water to spot-clean any particularly dirty or stained areas. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and care, because using the wrong stuff could affect the fabric.

At around (just under) the $500 mark, the JULYFOX Velvet Fabric Sofa is a good example of the type of sofa you should go for. 

Velvet Fabric

JULYFOX Blue Velvet Fabric Sofa

The thick velvet fabric is great with spills — it’s easy to clean with a little soap and water.

The internal frame is made of hardwood, making it solid and dependable, and the six glamorous gold-polished stainless steel legs provide sturdy support — capable of holding up to 700 lbs.

And for extra peace of mind, the cushions are filled with high-density foam to create structured seating that won’t sag with time.

More Details & Check Price

Velvet Loveseat

HONBAY Upholstered Loveseat Sofa Velvet 

Easy to clean, and the perfect solution for small spaces.

The manufacturer suggests using a “wet towel dipped with a small amount of detergent, and then wiping the sofa with a clean towel” in the event of any spills.

What’s more, with solid wood legs and a sturdy frame the HONBAY sofa can hold up to a maximum load-bearing capacity is 530lbs.

More Details & Check Price

Other Polyester Fabric Sofas

If velvet doesn’t appeal to you, there are other fabric textures you can go for. The ZINUS Benton Sofa Couch, for example, is made with a very on-trend “woven fabric, almost like a thick linen“.

This mid-century modern timeless classic will not only stand out in your rental property, but it will also keep your guests feeling cozy and comfortable with its sophisticated grid tufting, subtly rounded arms, and dense yet supportive foam seating.

But the great thing is that it is still made from the same fabric — polyester. That makes it super easy to clean with just a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Linen Look

ZINUS Benton Sofa Couch

When it comes to cleaning, the affixed cushions are easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Don’t let its stylish looks fool you – the Benton is not only budget-friendly but it’s also a force to be reckoned with when it comes to durability. Its naturally-strong frame is wrapped in supportive CertiPUR-US certified foam cushioning and durable polyester fabric. It can even hold up to a maximum weight capacity of 750 lbs.

More Details & Check Price

Leather Sofas

Leather has a reputation for being more delicate than it actually is — provided, that is, you don’t go for natural uncoated “aniline” leather, or, on the other end of the leather spectrum, bonded or synthetic leatherette which is more likely to crack and flake.

Top-grain and Italian leathers that have a pigment coating to protect and enhance the appearance of the natural patina, and to hide any blemishes in the hide and this makes it a proper tough cookie. I have two leather sofas in my rental, as well as an Italian leather Barcelona chair. Here’s the ottoman below.

They are zero effort to clean and maintain and I haven’t needed to use any leather conditioners or anything like that. I’m comfortable with the ones I have enough to know that I can use soap and a damp cloth to give them a really good clean. However, if you opt for a leather one, do check that you don’t have a sofa with a mix of aniline and Italian leather because the aniline bit will be left with watermarks.

The only other thing I want to say is that it’s better to choose a dark color. My black sofa looks so much newer than my cream/white one and it’s several years older. Either way, they all look good — you’d never know that I’d had them so long.

You’ll also notice there are no scratches in the photo above — and I’ve been putting my feet up on it (even with shoes) for years!

Leather Sofa

POLY & BARK Napa 88.5″ Sofa Full-Grain Semi-Aniline Italian

The semi-aniline dyed Italian tanned leather upholstery is top-notch.

…And the corner-blocked wooden frame with solid wood legs in a mahogany finish is a real showstopper. But it’s not just about looks with this sofa – it’s got comfort covered too.

More Details & Check Price

The high-density foam with polyester filling and feather-down topper on seating surfaces make for a cozy lounging on a cloud experience, while the feather-down and fiber blend seat-back cushions and bolsters add an extra layer of luxury.

And let’s not forget the Pirelli webbing – it’s the cherry on top of this comfort sundae. Plus, the loose, non-reversible seat and back cushions and lose bolsters make for easy customization to fit your guests’ preferences. And with curbside delivery included, all you’ll need to do is a quick and simple assembly (estimated at around 5 minutes) before you can kick back and relax.

In conclusion, if you want the best sofa for your vacation rental, you should invest in comfort and durability. You might want to consider spraying the fabric with a protector and when it comes to cleaning, Woolite is a lower-risk way to keep it looking its best.

Lastly, when choosing the best sofas for your vacation rental, don’t forget to invest in a good warranty or furniture protection plan for extra peace of mind. Happy hosting!

The Top Velvet Sofas for a Chic and Comfortable Living Space

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I’ve always wanted a velvet sofa and earlier this year I decided to take the plunge and buy one that I could curl up on it like a pampered cat. They’re so luxurious with their soft, plush fabrics and elegant designs — they add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any living room.

It’s been almost a year since I purchased my sofa and I’m happy to say it was a good choice. As you can see from the photograph I took, it still looks new despite daily use.

So in this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best velvet sofas that you can buy online, to help you find the perfect one for your space.

First on our list is The Carmine from Maiden Home. I so would have gone for this one if I’d seen it a year ago. Apart from anything else, this purple is absolutely gorgeous.

Our Top Pick

The Carmine

By Maiden Home

With 66 5-star customer reviews, it’s no surprise that The Carmine velvet sofa is a customer favorite!

See it at Maiden Home

The Carmine’s fan-pleated arms bring a touch of understated elegance to this updated classic. The tailored seat and back offer a supportive and comfortable sit, while the kiln-dried hardwood frame is precision-cut to ensure it never twists, warps, or cracks.

The joints are glued, double-dowelled, and corner-blocked for extra stability, and the eight-way hand-tied springs provide the ultimate in longevity and comfort. Each spring is secured in place by a skilled craftsman, (see photo bottom right) ensuring the highest quality construction.

The high-resiliency core is wrapped in a jacket of silky microfiber for a luxurious feel with minimal maintenance. The fabric seat and back cushions are fully upholstered and reversible for a comfortable sink-in seat. Hidden cushion tie-downs keep the seat cushions in place and resist sagging, making this a piece that will keep its shape and stand the test of time.

The Carmine measures 60-100 inches wide, 38 inches deep, and 34 inches tall, and it’s available in a choice of colors. I recommend ordering their complementary swatches!

The sofa ships in a very reasonable 7-9 weeks.

The Carmine would most definitely add a touch of sophistication and comfort to your living space.

Next, we have the Willoughby Two-Cushion Sofa:

Runner Up

Willoughby Two-Cushion Sofa

By Anthropology

Another top-rated velvet sofa is the Willoughby Two-Cushion Sofa, with 41 customer reviews and 78% of customers recommending it.

See it at Anthropology

This incredible furniture piece is the perfect blend of classic and modern design, with scrolled, elegant arms and a deep, plush seat that will make you never want to leave your home again. The seat cushions are removable, as are the front legs, making this piece practical to get through your front door or move to another room.

The cushion content is made with high-quality materials, including spring coils encased in high-resiliency foam and wrapped in soft fiber padding and a hypo-allergenic blend of down and feathers. This ensures a supportive and comfortable seat that will last for years to come. The frame is made of kiln-dried, laminated hardwood, providing a sturdy and long-lasting foundation. And because each piece is handcrafted in the USA, you can be sure you’re getting a work of art that will elevate the look of any room.

What’s not to love, about this stunning piece? It will transform your living space into the envy of all your friends and family.

Also worthy of a mention is the Jackie Sofa, It’s available in a choice of fabrics but only in Royal Blue Velvet. But if it’s your color choice, this is a great sofa.

Another Worthy Mention

The Jackie Sofa

By Kardiel

The Jackie Sofa from Kardiel is comfortable and stylish and comes in a choice of configurations making it a great choice for any living space

See it at Kardiel

This heavy velvet plush on this 2-seater sofa has a fabric weight of 330 Grams Per Square Meter and a Martindale Rub Count of 30,000.

The sofa is made from high-quality materials, including a sturdy kiln-dried Ash hardwood frame and removable 7″ solid Ashwood legs for added support. The cushions are filled with 32 lbs density high resiliency foam which meets CA regulations and there’s a metal coil suspension for ultimate comfort and to prevent sagging.

What’s more the removable zippered 2-piece seat cushions make this choice as practical as it is beautiful.

The US-based company that makes this sofa is 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.

The sofa is made to order in 10-14 weeks and Kardiel offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

In conclusion, choosing the right velvet sofa for your home can be daunting. But with the right information and a little bit of research (see below) you can find the perfect sofa for your space. Consider factors like size, style, materials, and color to find the right velvet sofa for your needs.

Finally, Always read the store’s returns policy and check to see if any restocking fee applies should you change your mind. Also do keep all the original packing until you are fully happy with your purchase.

The Insider’s Guide to Buying an Eames Chair Replica

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Are you looking to add a touch of mid-century modern style to your home? The Eames Lounge Chair is a classic design that has been popular for decades. But with its high price tag, it’s not always accessible to everyone. That’s where Eames lounge chair replicas come in.

In this guide, we’ll provide some tips on how to buy a high-quality Eames chair replica to help you make an informed decision.

We’ll cover factors like materials, construction, and pricing, so you can be sure to find a replica to best suit you. Understandably, not everyone has the same budget to spend but Eames replicas do vary considerably in price, so there’s a replica to suit most budgets.

How to Choose a High-Quality Eames Lounge Chair Replica

When it comes to choosing a high-quality Eames lounge chair replica, there are a few key factors to consider.

The original Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman are designed with several key elements that contribute to their iconic look and comfortable design. Some of these key features include:

  • A fixed angle of 15°: This allows for a comfortable recline while sitting in the chair, without the ability to fully recline.
  • A 360° swivel: The chair has a swivel base, allowing for easy movement and flexibility. The ottoman does not have this feature.
  • Interchangeable seats and cushions: The seat and cushion for the chair and ottoman are the same size and can be easily swapped. The cushions are 6 inches thick and filled with foam for added comfort.
  • 7-layers of molded plywood: The shell of the chair is made of 7-layers of FAS-certified hardwood plywood, kiln-dried to prevent warping and cracking. This construction method was introduced in 1974 and has become a signature feature of the Eames chair.

These design elements are the benchmark for choosing a high-quality Eames chair replica:

Materials: The Importance of Quality

The materials used in the construction of an Eames chair replica can make a big difference in terms of comfort, durability, and overall quality. High-quality replicas will typically use materials that are similar to those used in the original Eames chair, such as premium leather and high-density foam.

Construction: What to Look for in a High-Quality Replica

Another important factor to consider when choosing an Eames chair replica is the construction. High-quality replicas will be made using the same techniques as the original Eames chair, including the use of molded plywood shells.

The Eames chair is made up of 3 separate molded plywood shells. If you’re interested in how they are made, here’s a very brief summary of the process in one sentence: The sheets are layered (cross-grained), glued, and then heated to the precise temperature required to mold the wood into shape.

Replicas are made in the exact same way. However, you will find a few manufacturers of the cheaper replicas are now boasting of “new improved 8 layers“. I think you know where I’m going with this. Herman Miller and Vitra manufacture their chairs using 7 layers and so do the better-quality replicas.

That being said, some people have said they just really like the beefier look of the 8 layers of plywood.

Pricing: How to Choose the Right One for Your Budget

As with any product, the price of an Eames chair replica can vary widely. High-end replicas will typically be more expensive than cheaper options, but the added cost is often reflected in the finer details and higher-quality materials used.

In terms of the Eames chair, the difference in price between the higher and lower price points is largely determined by the attention to detail and the materials used in the construction of the chair. For example, the higher-end replicas typically feature softer, higher-quality leather and thicker, more comfortable foam filling in the seat cushions. Additionally, the seat cushions in the higher-end models are often encased in silk fabric for added comfort, while the cushions in the lower-priced models may not have this feature.

Another factor that sets the higher-end models apart is the removable cushions, which are attached using a clip system. This feature is present in both the original Eames chair as well as the higher-end replicas from theiconicchair and eMod on Amazon. In contrast, the cheaper Amazon models may not have removable cushions.

Furthermore, the higher-end theiconicchair range offers a greater variety of options in terms of color, wood veneer finish, and size. This allows customers to choose the chair that best suits their individual style and needs. In contrast, the lower-priced models may have limited color and finish options. Overall, the higher price point of the Eames chair reflects the added attention to detail and the use of higher-quality materials in its construction.

That being said, the cheaper replicas can look every bit the part so if you are looking for a replica from the cheaper range, please do head down to the section Lower Priced Eames Chair Replicas on my Best Eames Chair Replica post, where I cover those in more detail.

And speaking of the lower-priced replicas, in case you are wondering, the cheaper Amazon ones are not all the same chair under a different name. Although some actually are, and I’ll tell you which ones are and aren’t too…

They tend to sell out very quickly on Amazon and sometimes they disappear for quite a while only to pop up again when the sellers finally get a new shipment over from China (where they are manufactured).

Size: Standard or Tall?

When considering the size of your Eames chair, it is important to consider the difference between the standard and tall sizes. While the difference is only a few inches, it can make a significant impact on your level of comfort. It is worth noting that the upper shell of the chair is designed to contour to your shoulders, rather than serve as a headrest. To get a better idea of how the different sizes look on people of different heights, it is recommended to watch a YouTube video before making a decision. Not all replicas offer the option of different sizes, but some do.

Shipping and Returns: What to Expect

When it comes to shipping and returns, it is important to carefully review the company’s returns policy. Furniture, especially large items such as lounge chairs, can be costly to return if you change your mind. To avoid potential problems, it is advisable to take photos upon receipt of delivery, write “damages – subject to inspection” on the delivery note, and carefully open the boxes. Make sure to keep all original packaging and be aware that the cost of returning the chair may be your responsibility. Some furniture companies may also charge a restocking fee if you change your mind. theiconicchair does not charge a restocking fee and offers free shipping for their mid-century chair.

Assembly: Do I Need a Degree in Rocket Science?

Assembling your Eames chair may require some time and effort. The amount of assembly required may vary depending on the model and price of the chair. In general, cheaper models will require more assembly, including bolting together various parts. While the process is not complicated, it may be helpful to consult YouTube videos for guidance if needed.

Customer Reviews

One of the best ways to gauge the quality of an Eames chair replica is to read customer reviews. Look for reviews that mention the materials, construction, and overall comfort of the chair, as well as any issues that customers may have had.

Top Eames Lounge Chair Replicas

theiconicchair

Theiconicchair offers the real deal in Eames chair replicas, with a wide selection of colors, veneer options, and sizes. With over 10 years of experience in manufacturing, they know how to create a chair that looks and feels like the original Eames design at an affordable price.

1inchome

At well under $700, the 1inchome or the identical Rimdoc is the cheapest full-leather option on the market. If you want the look and don’t mind missing out on the extra details, to get a cheaper chair this is a great choice.

Best Artificial Outdoor Plants to Complement Your Outdoor Space

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Artificial plants can instantly transform a boring outdoor space into a mini oasis – if you are selective about the ones you choose.

Here, we’ve carefully compiled a selection of the best artificial outdoor plants, to complement your outdoor space.

So we will avoid any cheap plastic plants that at best bear little resemblance to an actual plant – and even worse will turn that unnatural shade of sickly blue after a few short weeks in the sun.

The ones we’ve chosen, all have that extra attention to detail. The topiary box hedge trees and cypress trees we have chosen, for example, have about a month’s worth of growth spurt – so they’re never going to look like solid round balls of green plastic leaves. They are also highly UV resistant so they’ll never turn blue on you.

What’s more, like for like, high-quality outdoor faux plants are usually cheaper than the real thing. That makes them worth every penny – especially when you consider that they won’t die, don’t require any looking after, and they won’t go leggy, outgrow their situation or ever look any less than 100% healthy.

The table below contains our selection of the best ones out there, but we also have better photos of our picks and detailed reviews including why we chose each one.

Succulent Hoop Wreath by IdahoWreathMaiden from Etsy

Top Pick: Succulent Hoop Wreath by IdahoWreathMaiden

Shop owner Molly makes beautiful custom-made hoop wreaths, like the one you can see here and in our main image above. This one measures 16″ in diameter.

Succulents naturally lend themselves well to artificial plant displays and are often nearly identical to the real thing.

We love the blend of colors Molly incorporates into her gorgeous natural-looking arrangements.

Molly will even make you a custom 18” or 24” diameter wreath with succulents if you wish.

Check Price on Etsy

What We Like

  • High-Quality Faux Leaves – There’s nothing about the leaves of the succulents that looks too uniform or like they’ve been cut with a cookie cutter.
  • A Varied Selection of Succulents – There’s a nice variety of plants giving it a high-end look.

Things to Consider

  • You might want to consider that due to the nature of the display it may not be best suited to anywhere that may be subject to adverse weather conditions.

Molly also makes other styles which you can check out here.

Also Great: Hanging metal bucket with faux succulents by AndSucculentsDesigns

This is another fabulous succulent arrangement. As you can see in the large photo below, it has a flat back so it’s ideal for hanging on a wall, or door, or for standing flat against a wall.

The faux succulent display comes in a galvanized metal bucket measuring approximately 9” by 6”.

We’ll be looking at another faux succulent arrangement from AndSucculentsDesigns next.

Check Price on Etsy
Hanging metal bucket with faux succulents by AndSucculentsDesigns from Etsy

Also Great: Extra Large faux succulent arrangement centerpiece in a black metal container by AndSucculentsDesigns

Troughs and Planted Containers

We’ve absolutely fallen in love with this magnificent statement piece.

This one comes with a black metal planter, so it would be better suited to a covered porch.

It’s 23” long by 4” wide and it’s stuffed full of beautiful and colorful, faux succulents.

See More From This Store on Etsy

There are several other designs and sizes to choose from in the AndSucculentsDesigns shop on Etsy. Below is a smaller (8.5 x 4.75 x 3.5″) wooden trough display and the photo below that shows a 12 x 6 x 3″ display.

Another beautiful succulent planter from the AndSucculentDesigns store on Etsy

What We Like

  • High-Quality Faux Leaves – Again, there’s nothing about the leaves of the succulents that looks too uniform and there’s nothing plastic about the look of the plants.
  • Wide Selection of Succulents – The trough is filled with a wide variety of colors and textures from the wide selection of succulents used.

Things to Consider

  • The pot itself may be the only drawback. The metal could rust and the wood may start to deteriorate eventually. This may not be your best choice unless it’s placed in a dry area.
All-Weather Leather Fern Bush 28″ Wide 7 Sprays of Lifelike Leaves Indoor Outdoor Use by FloralHomeOnline at Etsy

Hanging baskets filled with cascading plants are a fabulous idea – in theory. In practice, they will dry up like the desert as soon as you take your eyes off them for a minute, and they have such a disappointingly short window before they start to look past their best.

Substitute real plants for the right artificial plants, and your hanging basket will be maintenance-free and look beautiful all year round.

Also Consider: All-Weather Leather Fern Bush 28″ Wide 7 Sprays of Lifelike Leaves Indoor Outdoor Use by FloralHomeOnline

Pants for Hanging Baskets

Kathy Smith from New Jersey, United States sells an amazing selection of very high-quality faux plants and flowers for both indoors and out.

Check Price

Although made from plastic you’d never notice. This delicate and detailed fern is a stunning example of the high standard of plants Kathy sells in her shop. The fern looks like a standard-size artificial house plant from the photos, but it’s large – a full 28 inches wide! It would be perfect for a planter or would make a fantastic display as a hanging basket.

What We Like

  • Highly Detailed High-Quality Faux Plant – This is just one plant! You’d normally have to buy two or three to get the same amount of fullness that this one gives you.
  • Large Display – It looks smaller in the photo than it actually is. It’s over two feet wide.
  • Suitable for Indoor or Out – It would look fabulous in a sunroom that would otherwise be too hot to grow a real one successfully.

Things to Consider

  • This is a large display, and as with all faux plants, for a more realistic look it will look better placed at more of a distance. So you may want to consider where you intend to place it.

Artificial plant panels are both popular and useful for screening off unsightly areas of a yard or for providing privacy and shade. That being said, the market is saturated with cheaply made green plastic squares that bear zero resemblance to a natural plant and wouldn’t convince anyone!

We’ve picked one set, however, that knocks all the others out of the park!

Another Worthy Mention: Artificial Boxwood Panels by FloralHomeOnline from Etsy

These are exceptionally high-quality 20 by 20 inches square panels and they come in sets of 2, 4 6, or 12. UV and weather-resistant they won’t fade, become brittle or fall to bits.

The panels can be cut or bent to shape if required and they attach easily to any fence or wall.

Check Price on Etsy

As you can see in the close-up below, the panels have lush, dense, foliage and replicate different lengths of growth. What’s more, they provide 98% shade!

What We Like

  • Realistic Looking Dense Foliage – The uneven (non-uniform) growth really helps the overall effect to look more realistic.
  • Suitable for a Number of Different Situations – It’s easy to assemble and can even be placed on a curved surface.

Things to Consider

  • Cost – If you have a large area to screen, you’ll need a lot of panels. So, depending on how many you need, the cost may be considerable.

There’s a world of difference between the artificial topiary trees we have chosen in this section, and the ones you usually find out there.

A green mound of plastic on a stick is not going to do your outdoor space any favors nor will it convince anyone that it’s real – these artificial ornamental topiary trees are different.

Editor’s Pick: Nearly Natural 46” Boxwood Artificial Topiary UV Resistant

Nearly Natural specialize in high-quality faux plants.

If you a looking for an artificial indoor tree you’ll see they feature a few times in our top picks.

Their faux plants have that extra attention to detail.

Check Price on Amazon

This is due in no small part to the fact that they hire head designers who have years of experience and extensive knowledge of the live plant business.

If you look at the details, for a start, they are not all one solid color, they have a natural shabbiness to them and the trunk is broad, uneven, and exceptionally realistic.

What We Like

  • Dense Faux Foliage – The slight shabby look perfectly replicates how the plant would look in nature, and it’s this that sets it apart from lower-quality artificial plants.
  • Natural Looking Trunk – It even has tap roots!

Things to Consider

  • The plant doesn’t come with a pot so you will need to buy one separately.

Another Great Option: Northwood Calliger 4.6’ Artificial Topiary Triple Ball Boxwood Trees

These 3 tiered topiary box trees have multiple layers of dense variegated green leaves made from durable colorfast plastic so they are certainly made to last!

Check Price on Amazon

Infused with an advanced UV inhibitor, to protect them from fading in the sun, these Buxus trees come with a 7″ wide by 5.9″ high pot – ready for you to sink straight into a pot of your own choice.

You can see the final effect in the photo below.

What We Like

  • Dense Faux Foliage – In nature, leaves don’t all grow evenly and this is what makes this one so much better than the cheap ones you see out there.
  • Natural Looking Trunks – It even has tap roots!

Things to Consider

  • No Pot – They don’t come with a pot so you will have to buy one if you don’t already have one.

Another Great Option: Two 56-Inch Outdoor Artificial Boxwood Double Ball Topiary Trees

The product image, left, just doesn’t do this one any justice I know, but if you look at the photos of these trees in the customer reviews for these artificial trees on Amazon you’ll get the idea of just how realistic they look.

Check Price on Amazon

Below is a close-up of the weather and UV-resistant dense green foliage of the two 56 inches outdoor artificial Boxwood trees we’ve featured above.

Two 56 Inch Outdoor Artificial Boxwood Double Ball Topiary Trees Potted Plants from Amazon

What We Like

  • Natural Looking Foliage – There’s plenty of foliage on these boxwood trees and they have non-uniform leaves.

Things to Consider

  • No Pot – They come in weighted pots but you will need to replant them in pots of your own.

Another Great Option: Two 4 Foot 3 Inch Artificial Cypress Spiral Topiary Trees by Silk tree Warehouse

If you’d like something a little less formal than the tiered topiary Buxus trees we’ve just looked at, these are a fabulous alternative.

You can see just how detailed the foliage is in this pair of twisted cypress trees. The trees have a much softer and fluffier look.

You can see just how detailed the foliage is in the photo below.

Check Price
Two 4 Foot 3 Inch Artificial Cypress Spiral Topiary Trees by Silk tree Warehouse from Amazon

Best Diamond Painting Kits (Full Guide with Pro Tips and Tricks)

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In this super-easy-to-follow guide, we’ll cover absolutely everything you need to know about getting started with diamond painting. We’ll give you full instructions with tips and tricks along the way, and we’ll also take a look at some of the best diamond painting kits out there, with quick recommendations for choosing the perfect kit, whether you just want a quick project or are up for a bit more of a challenge.

So if that all sounds good to you, let’s get started.

And no problem, if you just want to choose a diamond painting kit and skip everything else – our recommendations are all right here in the table below.

Type of KitOur PicksScroll
Partial Drill Diamond Painting Kits

5D DIY Diamond Painting by Number Kits, Mandala Flower By Windale
This is a gorgeous partial kit which means you won’t be filling the entire canvas with drills, but there are still tons of drills to add to keep you busy. An excellent choice for a first diamond painting – not too much of a time commitment but very sparkly and pretty. You can see more of this one in the video above.
Size: 12 x 12 inches

5D Diamond Painting Kits for Adults – The Kiss Gustav Klimt
This is another fabulous option if you are just getting into diamond art. Lots of sparkles and what’s not to love about a Klimt.
Size: 15.75×19.68 inches		Read More
Full Round Drill Diamond Painting Kits
Eiflow 5D Diamond Painting Kits for Adults Sunflower
With this one, you will be filling the entire canvas with round drills. Round drills are a little more forgiving than square drills when it comes to lining them up straight. You will see a tiny bit of the printed canvas in the background around the drills.
Size: 12 x 12 inches		Read More
Multi Pack Kits
4 Pack 5D DIY Diamond Painting Full Drill by Nurkul
A fabulous set of animals. With good detail when completed. And get 3 more to complete the set. This is a full-round drill set.

Size: 12 x 16 in (approx each)		Read More
Full Square Drill Diamond Painting Kits

ANMUXI 5D Diamond Painting Kits Full Square Drills for Adults
This is a full square drill kit. So you will be filling the entire canvas to make up the image. It comes in a range of different sizes and you get 2 drill pens with 3 drill placer heads for placing a line of drills in one go.
Size: 12 x 12in		Read More

Let me start out by saying if you are new to diamond painting, it’s pretty new to me too. It’s only been around for a few years, so it’s definitely not something I grew up with.

It was invented by a company based in China back in 2010 and took several years to really take off. Now it’s hugely popular and this is only the beginning.

How Easy is Diamond Painting and Will I Like It?

Below is a very short video to give you an idea of what diamond painting is all about.

If you already like cross-stitch or painting by numbers, you’ll love diamond painting. The principle is basically the same. Diamond painting even uses the same DMC color system using the 489 colors that you will be familiar with if you’ve ever done cross-stitch before.

But even if you’ve never done anything like it before, it’s just about the easiest craft you could choose. While it looks super impressive when your painting is completed, it’s one of the most stress-free creative activities you could do.

It’s also very easy to just dip into it every now and then – especially when you compare it to knitting or crochet for example. You see with diamond painting, you can see at a glance where you are up to and what you need to complete next.

And you can start or carry on anywhere on the canvas that you like.

Lastly, it’s so relaxing and meditative, and you don’t need to fully concentrate on it, so you can listen to music, a podcast, an audiobook, or watch something on tv at the same time.

And what a lovely activity to do with your children or grandchildren!

So what’s not to love?

Pro Tip 1
If your canvas won’t lie flat, lift the film at each corner of your canvas and replace it. This simple trick should make your canvas lie flat.

How to do Diamond Painting

It’s super easy:

  1. Your canvas will come with a key. The key will be numbered and/or it may have symbols next to it. There will also be a corresponding DMC number. Match, and stick your diamonds (or drills as they are called) to the sticky surface of the canvas using the color key provided.
  2. Pour some drills into the tray provided in your kit and give it a gentle shake. This will turn all your diamonds the right way up.
  3. To make picking up the drills easy, a drill pen is provided with a hollow nib. Each kit also comes with a small piece of (usually pink) wax. Press the end of the nib into the wax.
  4. Pick up and place your diamond drills onto the canvas.
  5. You will notice that the canvas has a piece of film protecting its sticky surface. Uncover only the small area you are working on at any one time. This is to keep the canvas fluff-free and clean.
Pro Tip 2
If you notice any areas of the canvas have a bumpy or uneven glue surface, use a sharp craft knife to score the surface until the glue evens out. This is important as it will prevent a visible ridge of uneven drills from appearing in your finished piece.

How to Choose a Diamond Painting Kit

There are really three basic types of kit you can choose between and we’ll run through those now:

A Partial Kit

A good way to dip your toes into a diamond painting is with a partial kit.

By this, we mean one that has the high-quality inked background to which you add sparkle and detail with your diamonds.

And just so you know, these kits don’t just give you the odd diamond to add here and there. They have tons of diamonds in them for you to place. And the final effect is stunning.

Another good reason to choose a partial kit is that it’s generally much easier to see the symbols or numbers on your canvas.

Serious diamond artists tend to prefer full drill kits. The finished result of any type of kit has the potential to look stunning. But the full drill kits offer present more of a challenge.

A Full Round Drill Kit

These kits require you to fully cover the canvas with diamond drills. They are a little easier to line up because their circular shape means there is a tiny bit more space around them.

That means you will see some of the canvas in the background – but it will be printed the same color as your drill, so won’t be very noticeable.

A Full Square Drill Kit

Square drills are a little harder to line up straight. But there’s a handy tip to making it easier.

You simply place your drills in a checkerboard pattern and then go back and fill in the gaps.

If you choose a full drill kit, either round or square, you may find it a little difficult to see the symbols. Working over a lightbox or light pad can make things so much easier to see. They are surprisingly cheap too!

If you think you need a lightbox to see what you are doing, try to go for a dimmable one if you can.

Pro Tip 3
If you choose a full drill kit you may find that the edges outside of the working area are sticky too. To keep the edges fluff-free and clean, it’s a good idea to lay a strip of washi tape all the way around the edges of your canvas.

Now it has to be said that if you are filling an entire canvas with drills, your finished picture will inevitably look pixelated to some degree or another. As a rule of thumb, the larger the canvas, the more detailed and less pixelated the final image will be.

Of course, unless you are up for a challenge, that’s not necessarily what you want to hear if you are just starting out. It’s a huge time commitment for a start and you may feel a bit overwhelmed with a large canvas and tons and drills.

The best advice I can give you is not to choose a canvas that’s too big unless you already know you’re going to be hooked, but do choose kits where real people have posted a photo of their finished piece. That will make it easier to judge whether or not you’ll like the final result. …And that, of course, was an essential factor in choosing our recommendations.

Pro Tip 4
Store and label your spare diamonds when you have completed your kit. You never know when you may need a few extra ones in future kits. You can also use them to embellish birthday or Christmas cards etc. The possibilities are endless.

Partial Drill Diamond Painting Kit

5D DIY Diamond Painting by Number Kits, Mandala Flower By Windale

This is the kit I am working on now you can see it in the video above. I’m loving how it is turning out.

It comes with a mixture of different shapes and sizes of drills and the effect is super sparkly and pretty.

Although you only embellish the image, it’s kept me happily busy for about an hour each evening for the last couple of days and I’ve still not finished it as you can see (the finished project is shown above).

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Eiflow 5D Diamond Painting Kits for Adults Sunflower

If you look on Amazon you can see the photos of the completed painting posted by diamond artists.

We think it looks stunning.

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Multi Pack Kit

4 Pack 5D DIY Diamond Painting Full Drill by Nurkul

Tons of color to brighten your day. These look fantastic when done.

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Full Square Drill Diamond Painting Kit

ANMUXI 5D Diamond Painting Kits Full Square Drills for Adults

This one comes in different sizes so if you want more of a challenge, we say go for it!

For best results, a light pad may be the way to go but they are super cheap. Choose a dimmable one.

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Other Kits

Diamond Painting Bookmark by Ross Beauty

Fantastic gift. Super cute. What’s not to love?

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SUSSURRO 9 Pieces DIY Diamond Painting Keychain

Adorable. I suggest setting these so that the diamonds don’t drop off. Mod podge or similar will work.

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If there’s anything good that you think we’ve missed, or if you have any questions about anything, then let us know down in the comments below.

Fairy Gift Ideas and Keepsakes for All Ages

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This collection of Fairy Gift Ideas and Keepsakes for All Ages is a celebration of hand-crafted fairies, and all things fairy related. Let’s face it, we could all use a little sprinkling of fairy dust in our lives – something sweet and joyful to make us smile – whatever our age.

And just so you know, this fairy gift ideas guide is not just a selection of random, commercial (and usually overpriced) fairy merchandise. We’ve only selected the most thoughtful gifts created by talented craft makers and authors.

So with that in mind, we will be taking a little break from the everyday stresses that come with being a human and enter the enchanted world of fairies.

Mother Daughter figurine by Petra Vengar owner of PETRUSKAfairyworld on Etsy

Here’s what’s on our wish list, so you can scroll straight down if you want to:

Fairy Gift IdeaDetails
Needle Felt Fairies
These sweet, handmade Waldorf style fairies are suitable for special occasions or just as a stocking filler.
Fairy Books

Written in 1923, The Flower Fairies is the ultimate fairy book.
Fairy Costumes
Stunningly beautiful fairy costumes – all hand-made by talented designers and makers on Etsy.
Small Fairy Themed Gifts to Capture Children’s Imagination
Fairy doors and tooth fairy gifts.
Signs a Fairy is Nearby

Why Give a Fairy Gift?

There’s a reason why so many children love fairies. Fairies are the gateway to their creative imagination -as well as a welcome break from the everyday rules of life we all have to follow.

But I think that’s also the reason why adults love them too and the reason why fairy art prints, needle felted fairies, and other fairy themed items are so attractive to all of us.

Needle felted fairies, make especially decorative and thoughtful gifts for a best friend or for a special event such as the arrival of a new baby, baptism, or other special occasions. And honestly, they really don’t have to cost the earth!

Fairy Gift Ideas No 1 | Needle Felt Fairies

You can find beautifully handcrafted, themed needle felted fairies on Etsy, and in many cases, you can request to have one custom made especially for you or for a friend if you have one in mind.

Below are a few very affordable and beautiful new mom themed fairies on Etsy.

DIANA – Needle Felted Fairy by Sophie Streit
Mom and baby Waldorf inspired Mother fairy Fairy by Mariana Carrera Dufourg
XYLIA- Needle Felted Wool fairy with baby by Sophie Streit

Waldorf Style Fairies

You may have noticed that many needle-felted fairies all have a similar and very distinctive style? That’s because they are based on the educational philosophies of Waldorf (or Steiner).

Waldorf inspired needle-felted fairies are designed to be minimalist, allowing the imagination to fill in the extra details. They are simple, yes, but at the same time, they are incredibly expressionistic and convey so much more emotion than you would think their simplicity would allow.

Below is one I made myself. It was my first one so I’m over the moon with how well she turned out.

Our Favourite Fairy Fiber Artists

Here are some of my favourite fibre artists with a few examples of their work:

Petra Vengar is from Slovenia in Europe. She is an incredibly talented mother of two daughters, both of whom attend a Waldorf school. It was through them that she was inspired to create these stunning needle felted fairies.

They are all as exquisite as the ones you can see below. And if you ask her, she will even make you a custom fairy.

Petra says “you can choose a hair color, color of dresses, hairstyle …actually, you can decide what story you want to tell and I can help to create one…”

You can visit Petras Etsy store and see more of her work, there.

Needle Felt doll Fairy figurine by Petra Vengar owner of PETRUSKAfairyworld on Etsy
Needle Felted Fantasy doll by Petra Vengar
Needle felted Flower Fairy doll by Petra Vengar

Rebecca Varon owner of Nushkie on Etsy.

A native of New York and now living in California, the very talented Rebecca Varon, shop owner of Nushkie on Etsy was inspired by her daughter to make natural toys. She uses organic wool, merino wool fibers, silk fiber, and wire to make her wonderful creations. Rebecca will also make you a custom fairy.

Needle Felted Wool Fairy by Nushkie on Etsy

You can see examples of Rebecca’s work below and more of her work here.

Ethereal Crystal Winter Fairy by Nushkie on Etsy

Sophie Streit owner of LivelySheep on Etsy UK

Sophie started needle felting just after the birth of her first daughter and quickly became hooked. She has recently moved to Irland where she makes exquisitely detailed, Waldorf style faires, inspired by nature.

Needle felted Flower Fairy by Sophie Streit owner of LivelySheep on Etsy

Here are some more stunning examples of needle felted fairies, made by Sophie and other European fiber artists on Etsy.

Forest flower Fairy by Sophie Streit owner of LivelySheep
Moon Fairy Mobile by Tiziana Bernhard owner of Giodali on Etsy
Garden flower Fairy by Sophie Streit owner of LivelySheep

Spring Summer Fairy by Margot van de Wiel owner of FilzartShop
Waldorf Inspired Needle Felted Standing Fairy by Sarah, owner of WillowthewispUk
Needle felted fairy by Galia Borozdina owner of
DreamsLab3

Fairy Gift Ideas No 2 | Fairy Books

Books make wonderful gifts for children. I think I am not the only person who still owns a few much-loved childhood books. Richard Scarry‘s Animal Nursery Tales is one of my keepsakes. I loved the illustrations (still do) and I also have a very old, but beautiful copy of Alice in Wonderland – passed on to me by my mother, from her childhood.

So if you’d like to give a gift that a child might want to keep forever, what book could be more worth treasuring than a Flower Fairies book?

Cicely Mary Barker’s Flower Fairies books have delighted children and adults for almost 100 years.

Cicely Mary Barker

And no wonder. First written in 1923, her books were filled with botanically accurate illustrations, and her fairies were all based on the sweet faces of real children that she sketched at her sister’s nursery school.

I think she has a very sweet face too, don’t you?

Accompanying each fairy illustration is a short song or poem – admittedly they are very old fashioned, but still charming.

Flower Fairies Books on Amazon US and Amazon UK

You can meet Cicely’s fairies on the Flower Fairies website, and if you’d like a free coloring activity, you’ll also find a selection of black and white illustrations to print off.

Eight of her books are contained in The Complete Book Of The Flower Fairies that you can see below.

The Complete Book of the Flower Fairies

The Complete Book Of The Flower Fairies is available both in the US and the UK.

The Pop Up Books

When I was a child I loved pop-up books. Pop up books made me feel part of the story itself. The flower fairies series also has a selection of completely enchanting pop-up versions of the flower fairy books.

If you are in the US you can view them on Cicely Mary Barker’s author page here. If you are in the UK, you can view them here.

Fairy Gift Ideas No 3 | Fairy Costumes

We couldn’t have a fairy gift ideas guide without a few fairy costumes.

Children love to play at dressing up and rather than buying a cheaply made outfit that falls apart and looks a mess, you can find stunningly beautiful, handmade fairy dresses that are completely affordable.

Ideal for a party or special occasion, these dresses won’t go back into the closet to be outgrown before they get the chance to be worn again.

And did we mention how affordable they are?

So there’s a range of prices depending on what you go for, but if you compare some of the prices from FuzzyDucklingDesign‘s range to this one on Amazon, you’ll get the idea of what I’m talking about.

You can see more of Lisa Garcia’s wonderful creations at FuzzyDucklingDesign.

Woodland fairy costume by Lisa Garcia from FuzzyDucklingDesign on Etsy US

There are some beautifully handcrafted fairy costumes on Etsy. Above, is the Woodland fairy costume by Iowa, based designer and maker, Lisa Garcia from the United States.

And here is a stunning LILAH flower fairy tutu by British maker and designer Jade, owner of AramintaBoutique.

You can add some wings here.

Little Dreamer Fairy Wings

Small Fairy Themed Gifts to Capture Children’s Imagination

For this section of our fairy gift ideas guide, we’ve put together a selection of small fairy related items to spark a child’s imagination.

Fairy Doors

I would have loved one of these when I was little, I think every bedroom should have one, and there are some that you can place in the garden.

Fairy Door Set from the ThePurpleMooseShop (California, United States) on Etsy

And here is a selection from UK based sellers on Etsy.

The Goblin Fairy Door from a selection by Little Lodgers on Etsy UK
Personalised pink Fairy door by mapleandgrace on Etsy UK
Grey Personalised Fairy door set with accessories by Littlelandfairydoors on Etsy UK

Another idea from mapleandgrace, I love the description on this listing “perfect for writing notes to the fairy behind your fairy door”

And lastly, (until we add some more finds).

We all know that fairies have a very important job to do. So we’ve added some tooth fairy kits for girls and boys, from LittleLetterUK to our fairy gift ideas guide.

Tooth Fairy Little Letter Gift from the fairies with Magnifying Glass and Tooth Chart from LittleLetterUK
Personalised tooth fairy Kit for Boys from LittleLetterUK

The History of Fairies

Though little is known of the true origins of these sweet little spirits of nature, they have endeared themselves to us over the years and ignited the imaginations of both children and adults alike.

I just wanted to show you this painting below, I think it’s completely stunning and sadly one of way too few famous paintings by women. Sophie Gengembre Anderson entitled the painting Take the Fair Face of Woman, and Gently Suspending, With Butterflies, Flowers, and Jewels Attending, Thus Your Fairy is Made of Most Beautiful Things.

A portrait of a fairy by Sophie Gengembre Anderson (1823 – 1903) painted (1869).

If you’d like some decorative butterflies of your own, you can find some really pretty ones like the ones shown below.

Some Famous Fairies – A Fairy Timeline

  • 1595-96 | William Shakespeare writes A Midsummer Nights Dream and everyone – apart from Samuel Pepys ( I’ll put his comments below, reading them always makes me laugh)* – is mesmerized by the fairies in the play. Peaseblossom, Cobweb, Moth, Mustardseed, and Puck. Puck is technically a sprite and he serves Oberon and Titania (the Fairy King and queen).
  • 1697 | Charles Perrault writes a version of an age-old tale – Cinderella. But his version which is a lot more palatable than some of the other (gruesome) tales of the time, includes the adorable fairy godmother (and pumpkins).
  • 1911 | J. M. Barrie publishes Peter Pan, and we are delighted by Tinkerbell.
  • 1917 | The famous Cottingley fairy hoax hits the headlines of the day. Two little girls who claim to have seen and photographed real fairies caused a huge stir and convince many, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle that the photographs were proof of the existence of fairies. (Everyone knows they can’t be captured on film).
  • 1923 | Cicely Mary Barker is inspired to write a series of Flower Fairies books with more than a hundred botanically accurate illustrations. Drawing the faces of real children she sketches at her sister’s school, she brings the characters of her fairies to life.

* An extract from the Diaries of Samuel Pepys Monday 29th September:

“and then to the King’s Theatre, where we saw “Midsummer’s Night’s Dream,” which I had never seen before, nor shall ever again, for it is the most insipid ridiculous play that ever I saw in my life.”

We hope you found this Fairy Gift Ideas guide helpful. If you think there is anything fairy related that we should add to this list just let us know.