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35+ Weekend DIYs!

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Charming Spaces
FOR EASY SUMMER LIVING

Grain-Bin Gazebos
Why They’re All the Rage!

MasterChef Finalist
JENNIFER MAUNE
SHARES HER JOURNEY AS
A COOK AND BLOGGER

SUMMER
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BUYING
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Farmhouse Style SUMMER 2024 VOL. 7, NO. 2 EDITOR Susan Wagner MANAGING EDITOR Lisa Sloan COPY EDITOR Jessica Moorman STYLIST/DESIGNER Nancy Borsodi ART DIRECTOR Brad Snow PUBLISHING SERVICES MANAGER Michelle Harger SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Nick Pierce SENIOR PRODUCTION ARTIST Edith Teegarden PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Brianna Moore DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL IMAGING Scott Campbell PHOTOGRAPHY SUPERVISOR Tammy Christian PHOTOGRAPHY Scott Campbell, Luke Myers ADVERTISING DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS & PUBLIC RELATIONS Michelle Thorpe michelle_thorpe@annies-publishing.com ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Courtney Shoda courtney_shoda@annies-publishing.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Molly Beals, molly_beals@annies-publishing.com Kim Gard, kim_gard@annies-publishing.com Responsibility for quality and fulfillment of advertised products lies with the advertisers. Though Country Sampler Farmhouse Style will not knowingly publish fraudulent information, we are not liable for any damages arising from the purchase or use of any products. Should there be any consumer complaints regarding goods purchased from our advertisers, we would appreciate written notification to that effect to aid our screening. Contact us at Country Sampler Farmhouse Style, Customer Service, PO Box 8561, Big Sandy, TX 75755-8561. EDITORIAL OFFICES 306 East Parr Rd., Berne, IN 46711 260-589-4000; FAX: 260-589-8093 GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Tyler Kitt CHIEF TRANSFORMATION OFFICER Melissa Kelly CHIEF DESIGN OFFICER Laura Scott EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Susan Wagner PUBLISHING SERVICES DIRECTOR Brenda Gallmeyer FINANCE DIRECTOR / TREASURER Jack Sloan DESIGNER SUBMISSIONS If you have a project you’d like for us to consider in a future issue, please send a description of the project and photos to DesignerSubmissions@CountrySampler.com. NEED HELP WITH YOUR SUBSCRIPTION? SUBSCRIPTION CUSTOMER SERVICE 800-829-0425 ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION CUSTOMER SERVICE go to FarmhouseStyleMag.com To order more copies of this magazine or any other Country Sampler publications, go to SamplerMagazines.com or call 800-829-0425. RETAIL STORES: If you are not presently being provided copies of this magazine by your area newsstand wholesaler, visit us at AnniesWSL.com. Editor’s Note When Your Summers Are Filled With Fun and Creativity One of my favorite songs that puts me in a lazy-days-of-summer mood is the classic from Porgy and Bess sung by Ella Fitzgerald, which begins: “Summertime, and the livin’ is easy. Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high.” I realize it represents a bygone time, but the slow drawl of it just reminds me of relaxing on a front porch swing, slowly rocking back and forth and enjoying a faint breeze. Birds are chirping and kids are laughing down the street. I smile and wave at the neighbor as she works in her garden. I can smell summer’s perfume and feel its warmth. Summer days like this are beyond compare. In this issue of Farmhouse Style, we showcase three homes that exude that simple summer atmosphere. Two of the three even feature delightfully inviting porch swings! You’ll see how the homeowners mingle rustic natural surfaces with found objects that tell an enticing story and sun-filled rooms that will inspire your own spaces. Summer is also a great time to get a little dirty, whether that means digging in a flower bed, exploring a shady creek, or picking up a paintbrush. Our DIY section has several fun projects that you can complete by yourself or with kids, such as arranging a wildflower bouquet in an old straw hat or building a bee hotel to help our pollinator friends. There are even some ideas on how to turn typical travel souvenirs into memorable decorative accents. We have other features that will have you paging through this issue on your front porch, including the story of how a mom of six took her home-cooking skills to a new level and landed as a finalist on Fox’s “MasterChef.” And what would the season be without blue-ribbon dishes from the county fair? The recipes in this issue are all winners that you’ll want to try out on your family. Revel in these long days, taking inspiration from another one of my favorite lines, which truly expresses how I aim to spend my summer days: “Live in the sunshine, Swim the sea, Drink the wild air.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson Susan Wagner Drop me a line and tell me your favorite thing in this issue! Susan_Wagner@Annies-Publishing.com On the Cover PHOTOGR APHY BY GRIDLE Y + GR AVES. NOW GET MORE FARMHOUSE STYLE! We’re bringing you more tips and ideas between each issue with our social media sites and online blog. VISIT US AT: FarmhouseStyleMag.com
80 LIVING THE LIFE 6 Milk Glass Magic This opaque glassware, commonly found in shades of white, is an abundant, affordable and versatile collectible. 12 Coastal Vibes Seaside color schemes, organic elements and rustic accents infuse farmhouse style with a laid-back, beachy appeal. 22 The Evolution of a Cook ... and Her Kitchen Blogger Jennifer Maune went from a home cook to a professional chef and finalist on “MasterChef,” and her kitchen has undergone several transformations as well. 28 Grain Bin Gazebos Upgrade your outdoor living space by installing a backyard getaway that recalls traditional agrarian architecture. 34 Sharing a Heritage of Homesteading Teach kids the value of being self-sufficient by providing hands-on experiences in gardening, raising livestock, cooking from scratch and more. 12 68 2 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
34 42 FRESH FARM-STYLE HOMES 42 Layering on the Charm A neutral palette and collected finds define this lake-community retreat in South Carolina all year round. 56 Poetry of Place Years after falling in love with a North Carolina cottage, a creative couple make it their own, crafting a home that tells their story one room at a time. 68 Understated Elegance See how a couple built the Lowcountryinfluenced home of their dreams in coastal Florida, with decor that reflects the style’s gracious, casual feel. ALSO 4 Just a Click Away DO-IT-YOURSELF FARMHOUSE Check out these farmhouse finds from around the web. 80 Bright & Breezy Centerpieces Colorful flowers, garden produce and vintage finds help make ordinary table settings into seasonal highlights. 86 Summer Souvenirs Hold on to vacation memories by crafting personalized travel keepsakes that will instantly transport you to that special place and time. 90 Furniture Flips 18 Summer Days Buying Guide Preview new products for your home and garden. 108 Blue Ribbon Recipes Whether you’re headed to the fair, a potluck or your dining room, these dishes will earn you plenty of praise and maybe even a prize. Try these easy designer techniques to give fresh style and personality to old furnishings. 98 Projects for a PollinatorFriendly Garden Incorporate features that attract beneficial creatures and create a thriving outdoor habitat that’s good for you and the planet. 102 6 Clever Container Makeovers Think outside the box, bottle or basket to refashion everyday containers as novel home accessories. 102 108 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style (ISSN 2641-0125, USPS 22210) is published four times a year (January, April, July and October) by Annie’s, LLC, 306 East Parr Road, Berne, IN 46711. Periodicals postage paid at Berne, IN and additional mailing offices. Subscriptions: In the U.S. and its possessions, $37.99 for four issues, $65.99 for eight issues; Canada add $10 per year in U.S. funds (includes GST—IPM #40014183). Single issues $12.99, in Canada $14.99. For subscription inquiries, address changes, and adjustments, write to: Country Sampler Farmhouse Style, PO Box 8561, Big Sandy, TX 75755-8561, visit our customer service site at FarmhouseStyleMag.com/customercare, or call 800-829-0425. When writing about subscriptions, please enclose your mailing label. For address changes, please send us your old address with ZIP code and your new address. Allow six weeks for change to become effective. If the Postal Service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within two years. All photography in this issue is copyrighted and is the property of Country Sampler Farmhouse Style and Annie’s. No reproductions may be made under any circumstances. This copyright is actively protected. Copyright © 2024 Annie’s. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. We make portions of our customer list available to carefully screened companies that offer products and services we believe you may enjoy. If you do not want to receive those offers and/or information, please let us know by contacting us at PO Box 8561, Big Sandy, TX 75755-8561. Distributed internationally by Comag Marketing Group. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Country Sampler Farmhouse Style, PO Box 8561, Big Sandy, TX 75755-8561. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. Summer 2024 3
JUST A AWAY Farmhouse Finds from the Web SWECKER FARM NATIONAL FARMERS MARKET DIRECTORY Tammy Swecker shares her insights on the beauty of the country lifestyle through her Instagram page @sweckerfarm. Her posts and reels convey the joy of farm living through glimpses inside her cozy farmhouse; the antics of the farm’s cattle, sheep and chickens; and the ever-changing rural landscape outside her home. If you’re looking for a place to shop for farmfresh fruits and veggies, flowers and other locally produced items, either near your home or in areas you’re visiting, check out the National Farmers Market Directory. Simply enter a ZIP code or city and state to generate information on farmers markets in the area, including the location, schedule, and types of products for sale. www.instagram.com/sweckerfarm https://nfmd.org MY CREATIVE DAYS Featured Farmhouse Style blogger Lindsay Eidahl of My Creative Days not only has a blog and YouTube channel full of great content but also a podcast! On the My Creative Days podcast, Lindsay offers advice on home decor, DIY projects and furniture flipping for both fun and profit. Tune in for episodes on “Choosing the Perfect Paint Finish,” “How to Shop a Yard Sale Like a Pro” and other helpful topics. https://learn.mycreativedays.com/ podcasts/my-creative-days DIY SUBSCRIPTION BOX Want the fun of creating handmade home goods without the stress of coming up with an idea and gathering materials? Treat yourself to a subscription to Annie’s Farmhouse Style Kit Club. About every four weeks, you’ll receive a package with all the components and easy-to-follow instructions to make a new project. Past projects have included garlands, wreaths and wall decor like this 3D sign. Find unique, uncommon and heirloom flower varieties for your garden at Floret. You may recognize the name from the documentary series “Growing Floret,” which is available to watch on streaming services. The family-run flower farm based in Washington state offers a curated assortment of seeds, tools and supplies to help you grow beautiful flowers. Founder Erin Benzakein has written several books, and the company also offers online instructional workshops. www.annieskitclubs.com/products/ farmhouse-style https://shop.floretflowers.com THE FIRST POPSICLE WAS INVENTED BY 11-YEAR-OLD FRANK EPPERSON IN THE WINTER OF 1905. FRANK ACCIDENTALLY LEFT A CUP OF FRUIT-FLAVORED SODA, WITH THE STIRRING STICK STILL IN IT, ON HIS PORCH OVERNIGHT. HE INITIALLY CALLED THE FROZEN TREAT THE “EPSICLE.” 4 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style (www.popsicle.com)
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This compact vignette demonstrates the decorative versatility of milk glass. A bud vase, pedestal bowl and candleholder—all bearing different patterns—are used as originally intended, while a serving dish is mounted on the wall to show off its pretty underside.
This opaque glassware, commonly found in shades of white, is an abundant, affordable and versatile collectible. Written by JESSICA MOORMAN. I t’s hard to avoid falling in love with milk glass. Named for its milky appearance, this opaque glassware looks at home almost anywhere. Its neutral hue and simple yet elegant patterns allow it to coordinate with nearly any decor style, season or holiday. It was produced in myriad functional forms that can still be used today. Its best feature, though, might be its accessibility. Milk glass is easy to find and inexpensive to acquire. With origins in 16th-century Venetian opal glass, the milk glass we are familiar with today became popular during the Victorian era as an affordable alternative to porcelain. It was most often white but was sometimes rendered in pink, blue, green, yellow, brown and black. To produce these durable yet decorative pieces, molten glass containing additives for opaque coloring was blown into shape or pressed into molds before firing. Much of the milk glass that now fills shelves and tables at antiques stores, flea markets and thrift shops was produced when U.S. demand skyrocketed after World War II. From the 1950s until the 1970s, American manufacturers such as Westmoreland, Fenton and Anchor Hocking mass-produced a multitude of forms and patterns. Today, only a few American companies produce this type of glassware. One current standout, Mosser Glass in Cambridge, Ohio (www.mosserglass. com), manufactures hand-pressed glass products in several colors, including a familiar milky white. When gathering milk glass for your home, choose the period, forms and patterns that appeal to you. Victorian pieces will be harder to find, and thus more expensive. Designs from the 1950s onward are readily available and often cost less than $15. If authenticity is important to you, look for smooth surface texture, even coloring and distinct patterns. Otherwise, simply look for glass in good condition, with no chips, cracks or permanent stains. Enjoy your milk glass collection as functional wares or versatile display pieces. Many common forms, such as vases and tableware, can be used as intended and are replaceable if broken. Show off milk glass in groupings that highlight differences in size, shape or pattern. Natural light and dark backgrounds will let these nostalgic pieces truly shine. Summer 2024 7
Shauna Oberg of Satori Design for Living has more than 50 pieces of milk glass in her collection, most of which she picked up for less than $5 at thrift shops and garage sales. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY SHAUNA OBERG OF SATORIDESIGNFORLIVING.COM. Groupings of milk glass offer the most interest when you combine pieces in different sizes, textures and subtle variations in color, says collector Shauna Oberg. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY SHAUNA OBERG OF SATORIDESIGNFORLIVING.COM.
A dark background allows the elegant details of white milk glass to pop. Dawn Smith of Revel and Glitter painted this wall niche in her living room Sherwin-Williams’ Tricorn Black, making it a dramatic display spot for her collection. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY DAWN SMITH OF RE VEL ANDGLIT TER.COM. Milk glass lamps old or new can add timeless beauty to a living area or bedroom. Vintage examples can be rewired and outfitted with a new shade to make them more suitable for everyday use. Summer 2024 9
Bud vases are one of the easiest to find and least expensive milk glass forms. These floral trade pieces can hold cut flowers or taper candles, but they also look lovely piled casually in a wood bowl, as Rachel Harper from The Ponds Farmhouse shows here. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY R ACHEL HARPER OF THEPONDSFARMHOUSE.COM. Fenton Art Glass debuted the hobnail pattern in 1939, and by 1952, milk glass hobnail was its flagship pattern. Fresh summer blooms and fruits appear even more vibrant when gathered in white hobnail pattern vessels for a quick table centerpiece. Fabiana of Ciao Newport Beach heightens her display with two lemon cypress topiaries planted in large milk glass goblets, perfect for a sunny dining spot. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY FABIANA OF CIAONE WPORTBE ACH. BLOGSPOT.COM. 10 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
The Essential Knit Dress WAS $64.99 NOW 19.99 $ USE CODE WWC4I4 Raspberry Polka Dot + ++++ EASY-CARE SOFT KNIT Raspberry Pretty Blossom Raspberry Paradise Blue Polka Dot “Pretty and very comfortable. A lot of room for movement. I love this dress.” Convenient Paradise Blue Pretty Blossom -Mary, Online Customer SIDE POCKETS Paradise Blue Deep Teal Graphic Bloom Save Up To 45 ESSENTIAL KNIT DRESS. Easy, relaxed fit with wide scoopneck and empire waist. Full button front. Front pleating. Side pockets. Cotton/poly. Machine wash. Average: 5-30335-1156 48" length. Sizes S-7X Petite: 5-30337-1156 46" length. Sizes S-6X WAS 59.99 64.99 Waterfall Polka Dot Waterfall Pretty Blossom Black Multi Garden Radiant Purple Polka Dot Radiant Purple Blossom White Multi Garden Navy Polka Dot NOW 19.99 Navy Pretty Blossom $ Petite Navy Pretty Blossom Navy Sizing Equivalents: S(12), M(14-16), L(18-20), 1X(22-24), 2X(26-28), 3X(30-32), 4X(34-36), 5X(38-40), 6X(42-44), 7X(46-48). Petite Navy Polka Dot Navy Multi Garden Black Polka Dot FREE SHIPPING Black Pretty Blossom Black USE CODE WWC4I4 SEE DETAILS BELOW The TRUSTED EXPERTS in SIZES 12W TO 44W Item # 5-30335-1156 Color Essential Knit Dress Item name Size Qty Price Total Charge my (circle one): Card# ______________________________________ Use code WWC4I4 to get items 5-30335-1156, 5-30337-1156 for $19.99 and get free shipping on your order. Free shipping applies to standard shipping only, not including any additional shipping surcharges. Shipping upgrades additional. Does not apply to clearance. Discount is priced as marked in checkout. Not applicable to gift cards or prior purchases. May not be redeemed for cash or combined with other offers. Returns credited at discounted price. Only applies to instock merchandise. Expires 6/15/2024. Order by mail: Woman Within, 500 S. Mesa Hills Drive, El Paso, TX 79912 Merchandise total Shipping & handling FREE For express delivery add $11.99 Sales Tax: We collect sales tax where legally required. These states include: CA, FL, IN, KY, NY, RI, TX, and WA, but are subject to change at any time. Total Your satisfaction is guaranteed! Signature ____________________________________ Card expires (month/year) _______________________ Name _______________________________________ Address _____________________________________ City/State/Zip ________________________________ Phone ______________________________________ Email _______________________________________ READY TO SAVE? HERE’S HOW TO SHOP ONLINE! 1 Go to: WOMANWITHIN.COM 2 Find at the top of the page 3 Type in your item number CLICK CATALOG TO ORDER FROM CATALOG Call 1.800.248.2000 Now... or go to WOMANWITHIN.COM 4 Hit SEARCH ACT FAST! SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER PLUS FREE SHIPPING! 1 IN COMFORT & VALUE #
Coastal Seaside color schemes, organic elements and rustic accents infuse farmhouse style with a laid-back, beachy appeal. Written by LISA SLOAN. This room shows off several staples of coastal style, including watery hues on both the upholstery fabric and painted drop-leaf coffee table, a natural woven jute rug, and artwork depicting fishing knots. PHOTOGR APH COURTESY OF MAINECOT TAGE.COM.





Delicate Daisy Napkins Cotton gingham napkins with a delightful daisy edge add a floral flourish to any summer party. Set of four, $65. Ceramic Berry Colander W W W.MERIMERI.COM With a vibrant floral print inside and out, this pint-size ceramic colander is both functional and pretty. $19. W W W.NATUR ALLIFE.COM Preview new products for your home and garden. Floral Salad Servers Carved from durable sapele wood, these flower-shaped servers are perfect for dishing up summer salads. $55. W W W.FOOD52.COM Rustic Bread Box Store bread in style with this punched-tin style metal bread box, available in three colors, including this Weathered Zinc finish. $105.95. W W W.ALLYSONSPL ACE.COM 18 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Paint at Home Kit Have some “Cotton Pickin’ Fun” with an Art to Go paint kit. Canvas, paints, brushes and step by step instructions are included. $39. W W W.THEPAINTEDPETAL.COM Mixed Berries Tea Towel Adorned with a colorful array of summer berries, this tea towel adds seasonal flair to the kitchen. $8.50. W W W.STONEWALLKITCHEN.COM Handwoven Market Bag Ideal for trips to the farmers market, these sturdy baskets handwoven from pallet banding are made by artisans in Myanmar. Multiple sizes and colors, starting at $42. W W W.YGNCOLLECTIVE.COM All-American Tins What would you stow in this trio of handled tin boxes adorned with vintage-style patterns in red, white and blue? Set of three, $96. W W W.ANTIQUEFARMHOUSE.COM in America... Summer 2024 19
Lavender Pot Handcrafted in Virginia, this hand-painted stoneware flower pot features a delicate lavender design. $42. HT TPS://EMERSONCREEKPOT TERY.COM Garden Gloves These pretty garden gloves made from environmentally friendly materials blend function, sustainability and style. $23.99. W W W.WATSONGLOVES.COM From Land... Butterfly Buckets A set of lightly distressed metal buckets feature a whimsical cutout butterfly design and could be filled with florals or serve as lanterns with the addition of flameless candles. Set of two, $15.89. HT TPS://RETAIL.COLHOUSEDESIGNS.COM Haute Hose Garden hoses can be both beautiful and functional, as proven by this one, available in a range of stylish colors, including Rusty Rosé. Coordinating nozzles and spray guns are sold separately. $129. W W W.G ARDENGLORY.COM/US 20 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Coastal Candles Scalloped Shade Stackable Aegean Candlescape sets are inspired by natural shapes from the ocean floor. Available in multiple colors and scents. Set of two, $65. This scalloped raffia shade comes in multiple sizes and different trim colors, including soft pink and navy blue. Starting at $85. W W W.THESHADESHOP.COM W W W.SKEEMSHOP.COM Buoy Pillows Shaped like anchored floats but fashioned from cotton, these pillows exude nautical charm. Set of three, $59.99. W W W.VINTAGECROSSROADS.COM Starfish Utensil Holder With its stamped starfish design and distressed finish, this utensil holder fits right into a coastal farmhouse kitchen. $14.99. W W W.DJFARMHOUSE COLLECTIONS.COM to Sea... Summer 2024 21
Jennifer Maune says she learned a lot from her time on “MasterChef,” calling it “exhilarating and fun” despite the pressure of cooking within a tight timeline and being away from her family for eight weeks. Being mentored by renowned chefs and restaurateurs was a highlight, she says, as was forging relationships with the other contestants. PHOTOGR APH COURTESY OF FOX. The Evolution of a Blogger and ‘MasterChef’ finalist Jennifer Maune has grown her passion for home cooking and hospitality into a career, transforming her kitchen along the way. Photographed by JENNIFER MAUNE. Written by LISA SLOAN. 22 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
and Her
Through the years, Jennifer has remodeled her kitchen twice. Find all the details of her remodeling projects at https://jennifermaune.com/ kitchen-remodel-ideas. ABOVE: When Jennifer first moved into her home, the kitchen featured cream-colored cabinets with a brown glaze, beige tiles and brown granite countertops. The color scheme and L-shaped layout made the room feel closed off and dark. ABOVE RIGHT: The first remodel eliminated the L-shaped peninsula and opened up the room, while fresh paint on the walls and existing cabinetry, along with white polished quartz countertops and porcelain backsplash tile, brightened the space even further. A custom hood replaced the awkward bookcase above the range, and a larger island gave Jennifer the extra cooking space she needed. RIGHT: Added in 2022, the new red oak island features a mix of whitewash and coffee stain to match the kitchen floors. Coordinating trim on the range hood brings that wood tone higher on the wall for a unified look. In addition to replacing the island in this phase of the kitchen remodel, a small wall was removed to make way for a larger refrigerator. 24 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
RIGHT: For the second kitchen update, Jennifer went with a slightly sleeker look, replacing the tiled backsplash with slabs of quartz for a more seamless design. She also swapped the glass-door display cabinet for white oak open shelving and added custom-made feet to the base cabinets. BELOW: For the first remodel, Jennifer chose a white porcelain backsplash tile with a curvy arabesque lantern shape to introduce pattern while maintaining the neutral palette. W hile Jennifer Maune was expecting her sixth child, the Arkansas mom and avid home cook decided to chase her culinary dreams and enroll in cooking school. She never imagined that just three years later, she’d be a contestant on the 13th season of “MasterChef,” Fox’s popular competitive cooking show featuring Gordon Ramsay. Representing her home region, the South, she made it all the way to the final round. Jennifer’s earliest kitchen memories are of helping her grandma make Thanksgiving dressing and macaroni and cheese. “My maternal grandmother was an amazing Southern cook, and my love for cooking came from her,” she says. As an adult, Jennifer relished preparing traditional Southern favorites for her family and friends and began sharing some of her recipes on the eponymous home decor, recipe and lifestyle blog she started in 2017. But it wasn’t until 2020, when she was 40 years old, that she enrolled in a culinary program through a local college, taking classes at night or when her kids, whose ages now range from 3 to 14, were in school. She earned degrees in pastry arts and culinary arts and later completed advanced certificates at Le Cordon Bleu Paris. As Jennifer has expanded her cooking skills, the kitchen in her Little Rock home has also undergone its own transformation—with most of the changes highlighted in posts on her blog. The first and most extensive remodel was in 2018, and Jennifer was involved with every aspect of the project, overseeing changes to everything but two walls of existing cabinets and the appliances. Summer 2024 25
A 2022 plumbing leak necessitated further modifications, including rebuilding the island, which allowed for the addition of chef-approved elements such as a larger farmhouse sink, warming drawer and built-in spice storage. “We’ve completely remodeled it from top to bottom—every piece of trim, every door. I think there’s one light fixture left that we haven’t changed,” Jennifer says. For now, she is content with the way the room looks and functions. “If we were to build and I got to design my dream kitchen, I would go a step further with column refrigerators on either side of the range, but for our current house and floor plan, it’s great. A busy family can always use a bigger kitchen, but I love how ours has evolved over time.” Fortunately, the kitchen has plenty of space for the family to gather and cook together. Jennifer invites her children to participate in food preparation, just as her grandma did. “We might be a little messy, but messy is fun,” she observes. While she didn’t take top prize on “MasterChef,” Jennifer still considers herself a winner. In the months since the show’s finale, she has been busy planning her future in the food industry and has recently released a line of seasonings, with a cookbook, licensed kitchenware and a farm-to-table restaurant also in the works. In addition, she has been cooking for private dinners and special culinary events. “I’m super-proud of my run on the show and to represent female chefs,” she says. “It shows you can be a mom and still chase your dreams, and that it’s never too late to start.” Follow Jennifer on her blog at https://jennifermaune.com or on Instagram at www.instagram.com/jennifermaune. Catch her season of “MasterChef,” which originally aired on FOX, streaming on Hulu. ABOVE: Jennifer, seen here with her two daughters, enjoys sharing her love of cooking with her children. Her eldest daughter also aspires to compete on a cooking show. RIGHT: Jennifer has developed a line of seasonings to naturally enhance the flavor of your favorite dishes, based on her own recipes. Sold as a set of three, they include All-Purpose, Lemon Pepper and Garlic Pepper varieties. Learn more at www.instagram. com/heritageseasoning. Want to win a set of your own? Jennifer and Heritage Seasoning are partnering with Farmhouse Style to give away three sets. Enter for your chance to win at FarmhouseStyleMag.com/ HeritageSeasoningGiveaway. 26 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
SHRIMP AND GRITS Serves 6 Jennifer’s fresh spin on a Southern classic combines Gouda cheese grits, seasoned shrimp and fresh vegetables. INGREDIENTS For Grits 3 cups chicken stock ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup white corn grits 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup shredded Gouda cheese For Shrimp 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined Salt Pepper 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 ears fresh corn, kernels cut from the cob 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2" pieces 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 yellow onion, diced 1 cup chicken stock 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Heritage Seasoning 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 red bell pepper, diced INSTRUCTIONS 1. Bring 3 cups chicken stock and salt to a boil in a medium pot. Whisk in corn grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid is absorbed. 2. Remove pot from heat and cover to keep warm. 3. Stir in 2 tablespoons butter and shredded Gouda cheese before serving. 4. Rinse peeled and deveined shrimp and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside. 5. Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Melt 2 tablespoons butter and cook corn for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Add asparagus and sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside. 6. Add olive oil and onion to the sauté pan and cook until softened and translucent. 7. Stir in chicken stock and All-Purpose Heritage Seasoning. 8. Add garlic and red bell pepper and sauté for 2 minutes. 9. Add shrimp, turning until they are pink, about 3 to 4 minutes. 10. Stir in corn and asparagus and remove pan from heat. 11. Portion grits and top with the shrimp and vegetable mixture. PHOTOGR APH AND RECIPE BY JENNIFER MAUNE, W W W.JENNIFERMAUNE.COM. Summer 2024 27
Upgrade your outdoor living space by installing a backyard getaway that recalls agrarian architecture and provides a stylish spot for relaxing and socializing. Written by CHERYL HACKETT. W hen traveling your favorite country roads, you’ll likely encounter a landscape dotted with farmhouses, barns, silos and grain bins. These iconic structures have long inspired elements in farmhouse decorating, but in recent years, the galvanized-metal grain bin has found new purpose—as a backyard gazebo! Whether newly manufactured by specialists or repurposed by architectural salvage artisans, grain bin gazebos offer endless forms and functions. Today, the corrugated steel structures house sitting areas, kitchens, dining areas, bars, firepits and spas. Some grain bin enthusiasts are even taking this trend a step further and venturing to create she sheds and cozy cottages. Authentically Aged Some examples of these backyard structures are constructed from salvaged grain bins, giving them new life. “Grain bin gazebos are popular because they epitomize upcycling,” observes Mary Adam of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, who bought hers on Facebook Marketplace. “Our grain bin was built on a local farm for use in a wedding. The owner sourced the materials to build the gazebo directly from his family farm.” Mary likes to host small parties in her gazebo as well as use it as a quiet afternoon reading spot. “It adds a rustic element to our summer landscape, and it is functional and beautiful,” she says. 28 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Randy and Denise Doshier of Loomis, California, worked with Josh Bell of Georgia-based Orchard Hill Bins to construct this grain bin gazebo on their property. The gazebo complements the barn where they host events through their business, R&D Love Barn. The design has two side wings and a roomy interior, making it perfect for dinner parties and other small gatherings. A large dining table provides ample seating inside, while pub tables crafted from repurposed whiskey barrels are ideal for enjoying cocktails. PHOTOGR APHED BY WANDER LOVE PHOTOGR APHY, WANDERLOVECAPTURES.COM, COURTESY OF R ANDY AND DENISE DOSHIER OF INSTAGR AM.COM/ RDLOVEBARN.
DIY Flair If you’d like to see more of Mary’s home, check out the Spring 2024 issue of Country Sampler. You can also follow her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ upperbucksfarmhouse. Mary Adam’s gazebo was crafted by a local farmer and features seating made from vintage milk cans fitted with tractor seats. It was designed for entertaining but also serves as Mary’s reading retreat. “It’s shady inside and always catches a nice breeze,” she says. PHOTOGR APHED AND ST YLED BY GRIDLE Y + GR AVES. If you’re an adventurous DIYer, you might construct your own grain bin gazebo from salvaged pieces. Blogger Rhonda Kaiser of Southern Home and Farm in Katy, Texas, bought an antique grain silo in Illinois and reassembled it on her family’s property. Finding new uses for agricultural mainstays represents nostalgia for Rhonda. “I love the look of farm buildings as well as their purpose and history,” she says. “I knew one would be the perfect addition flanking our garden, greenhouse and vintage farmhouse table. I wanted a space for entertaining and lounging throughout the seasons.” Because she primarily uses her gazebo for entertaining, Rhonda removed side panels for ventilation and installed fans inside for cooling. She appointed the interior with vintage treasures, including a chandelier she had made from a hog feeder she found at the Round Top Antiques Fair. Artistic Renderings If you can’t tackle such a project yourself, there are many skilled artisans who have a passion for the past. One such individual is Zack King, owner of Hinged Bins, based in Hartford, Kentucky. Zack transforms decommissioned grain bins into one-of-a-kind gazebos, studios, kennels and cottages. Zack connects with farmhouse style aficionados mainly through Etsy. “Grain bin gazebos hold tremendous appeal for those passionate about recycling structures,” he says. “The round geometries are eye-catching, and when they are modified as new structures, they have their own character. The potential for reuse is limitless.” One of Zack King’s designs built from salvaged bin parts and new lumber, this grain bin gazebo has low walls and a raised wood floor. PHOTOGR APHED BY Z ACK KING OF HINGEDBINS.COM. 30 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Alfresco Decor Furnishing an open-air gazebo that encounters sunlight, wind, rain and dust calls for careful orchestration. Whether your gazebo will be used as a peaceful retreat, a culinary hub or multipurpose venue, function should always follow form. Blogger Rhonda Kaiser shows off her grain bin gazebo on her popular blog, Southern Home and Farm. Her gazebo is decorated with metal gliders and chairs that withstand weather, and she incorporates pillows and throw blankets to make it cozier. “Entertaining is a big part of our time spent on the farm. Our gazebo is the perfect outdoor entertaining area,” she says. “We installed a big-screen TV just under the entryway. This is our favorite place to watch football and movies.” Here are more of Rhonda’s tips for decorating a grain bin gazebo: ❖ Find Flexible Furniture. Sunlight fades surfaces. Wind topples furniture, resulting in chips. Source vintage metal and wicker outdoor furniture that require little maintenance. Look for versatile items, such as expandable tables, benches for seating and dining areas, and stools that double as accent tables. Durable metal furniture with a chippy finish matches the rustic vibe of Rhonda Kaiser’s grain bin gazebo. PHOTOGR APHED BY RHONDA K AISER OF SOUTHERNHOME ANDFARM.COM. ❖ Think Tough Textiles. Rainwater wreaks havoc on upholstery, pillows, tablecloths and area rugs. Invest in quality outdoor fabrics that resist moisture and mildew. Pick colorfast materials that you can spot clean or machine wash. ❖ Light the Way. Gazebos are a delightful gathering space on a summer evening. Consider safety and use solar lights to illuminate paths leading to the structure. Amplify ambience inside with battery-operated chandeliers, sconces, lanterns and string lights designed for outdoor use. ❖ Pick Portable Props. Shop for trays, baskets and buckets to easily transport food, beverages and dinnerware from the house to the gazebo. ❖ Go for Greenery. To create a seamless connection between the gazebo and your garden or landscaping, liven the space with easy-care container plantings, potted trees and freshly cut flower bouquets. The chandelier in Rhonda’s gazebo includes part of a metal hog feeder—an apt choice for the agrarian structure. PHOTOGR APHED BY RHONDA K AISER OF SOUTHERNHOME ANDFARM.COM. Summer 2024 31
Creative Kits If you favor sleek new steel, invest in a grain bin gazebo kit. Some advantages of these kits over a salvaged grain bin are that they are designed specifically to be gazebos and are built to be long-lasting and easy care. Available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 12 feet to 36 feet or more in diameter, the kits are made to be installed on a concrete foundation. Grain Bin Gazebos, based in Durango, Iowa, sells kits to homeowners across the United States. Several years ago, Grain Bin Gazebos cofounder Robin Pfotenhauer collaborated with a grain bin manufacturer to design the assemblyfriendly kits. Robin’s enthusiasm for the structures is contagious. “My favorite thing is that they are maintenance free. I like to call them an adult erector set. If you can handle a nut and bolt, you can install these gazebos,” Robin says. “Grain bin gazebos have a flexible aesthetic and blend in with farmhouse, industrial and modern designs.” With so many options, you might find this summer’s plans include enhancing your backyard with a feature that captures the essence of farming heritage. Resources GRAIN BIN GAZEBOS www.grainbingazebos.com When childhood sweethearts Amber and Brad Kober purchased their dream farm in Sparta, Michigan, in 2015, Amber envisioned someday having a wedding venue there. In 2020, they did just that. While their son works alongside Brad, a fifth-generation farmer, Amber and her daughters run the Whippoorwill Farm Venue. Local tradespeople helped them add this charming grain bin gazebo, and it has been a popular spot for gatherings, including the weddings of the two oldest of the Kobers’ four daughters. PHOTOGR APHED BY AMBER KOBER OF WHIPPOORWILLFARMVENUE.COM. 32 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style HINGED BINS www.hingedbins.com ORCHARD HILL BINS www.facebook.com/ bellgrainbingazebo

Friendly chickens are ideal for teaching children about livestock. Kids can learn to handle the animals, provide food and water, clean their living area and keep them safe from predators. FROM THE CHILDREN’S HERITAGE SOURCEBOOK , PHOTOGR APHED BY SAR A PRINCE, COURTESY OF RIZ ZOLIUSA .COM.
Sharing a Heritage of Teach kids the value of being self-sufficient by providing hands-on experiences in gardening, raising livestock, cooking from scratch and more. Written by JESSICA MOORMAN. I n this age of screens, social media and sameday delivery, it’s more important than ever for kids to learn basic skills that will put them on the path to a confident, productive life. Homesteaders past and present have provided children with a real-life education in self-sufficiency, often through daily hands-on tasks. While much of this old-fashioned knowhow isn’t necessary today, practicing homesteading-related skills like gardening, cooking, or animal care can provide untold benefits to the youngsters in your life. Getting kids interested in learning practical skills shouldn’t be very hard. Teri Page, author of the book Family Homesteading and blogger at Homestead Honey (https:// homestead-honey.com), notes that homesteading pursuits are particularly appealing to young people. “Homesteading is an inherently creative process that cultivates a sense of wonder, a connection to nature, and sense of place and seasonality,” she says. “Children both embody and crave these qualities and thrive when given the opportunity to participate in meaningful work.” You can provide kids with skill-building opportunities no matter where you live or your current level of knowledge. Teri notes that homesteading encompasses so many activities that you’re sure to find an entry point that meets your family’s lifestyle and budget. “My advice is to pick something that is appealing to all of you to take baby steps toward growing your skill set,” she says. Gaining experience with gardening can be as simple as a basil plant and a watering can for a young child. Most kids thrive when they are allowed to test their physical abilities. PHOTOGR APHED BY WHITNE Y BINGHAM OF INSTAGR AM.COM / BINGHAMFARM. Summer 2024 35
When starting out, allow kids to observe or participate in whatever way suits their age and interest, advises Colleen Hinds, a previous child and adolescent therapist who offers immersive farm-based experiences at Frenchie Farm in Illinois (www.thefrenchiefarm.com). “The key is giving them the exposure while also providing the space and time for children to choose their passions for themselves,” she says. You can plan hands-on activities at home or join an established program at a local farm, park or museum. Read on for easy ideas that can be personalized for your family. their food and instill responsibility and sustainability in our future generation,” she says. Bring kids along as you start a garden from scratch or designate a special growing spot for kids in an established garden. Help them find engaging tasks that match their personalities. For example, teach a young butterfly enthusiast how to plant pollinator-friendly flowers among the vegetables, or show a boisterous child which plants are weeds and hand over the hoe. Let kids see, touch and taste as they make a personal investment in their food system. Grow a Garden Care for Animals From starting seeds to harvesting vegetables, gardening will allow kids to learn where their food comes from—and get their hands dirty. Whitney Bingham of Bingham Farm in North Carolina (www.instagram.com/binghamfarm) runs a homeschool farm co-op that includes hands-on, naturebased activities for children. “Gardening is a wonderful way to teach science, promote healthy eating, connect kids with Find a way for kids to interact with animals, whether it’s farm livestock or a family pet. “Getting kids involved in animal husbandry is a great way to promote responsibility, help foster empathy for other living things, and teach time management and self-sufficiency—not to mention it’s great physical activity!” says Whitney of Bingham Farm. Consider smaller livestock such as chickens or rabbits, which are manageable even in a small backyard and can provide both food for your table and fertilizer for your garden. Depending on their age, kids can handle feeding and watering, cleaning up, grooming, training and bonding with the animals. Even very young children can toss treats or collect eggs. BELOW: Livestock (and pets!) depend on their caretakers, and youngsters can learn to scoop and distribute rations on a schedule. PHOTOGR APHED BY WHITNE Y BINGHAM OF INSTAGR AM.COM / BINGHAMFARM. ABOVE: A garden offers so many learning and growth opportunities. “Little ones experience the sensory benefits of exploring in the dirt, older kiddos continue to gain expertise in gardening skills, and picky eaters expand their palates simply due to their personal investment in the garden process,” says Colleen Hinds of Frenchie Farm. PHOTOGR APHED BY COLLEEN HINDS OF THEFRENCHIEFARM.COM. 36 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style ABOVE: Gathering chicken eggs is a fun activity that almost any child will enjoy. PHOTOGR APHED BY WHITNE Y BINGHAM OF INSTAGR AM.COM / BINGHAMFARM.
Back-to-Roots SKILL STARTERS Ready to teach the young people in your life some old-fashioned skills? A great place to start is The Children’s Heritage Sourcebook: 100+ Back-to-Roots Activities for Kids & Teens (Welcome Books, 2023). Written by Ashley Moore, Lauren Malloy and Emma Rollin Moore, this book is a year-round resource packed with ideas and inspiration to engage kids in the art of self-sufficiency. Try one of these kid-friendly projects, which are described in step-by-step detail in the book. ❑ Grow microgreens. Sprout edible seedlings in your kitchen no matter the season. In a bowl filled with moist potting soil, kids can plant seeds for kale, clover, pea, radish or sunflower and then watch them grow. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, carefully cut across the stems with scissors and let kids taste their harvest. ❑ Raise a few chicks. Gather supplies to set up a brooder box that will be a cozy home for chicks for their first weeks of life. Show kids how to add bedding, food, water and a heat source to the box. Help them learn how to handle the fragile babies and keep their temporary home clean and dry. Once the chicks are old enough to move outside, you can continue raising them for eggs or meat or transfer ownership to a ready farmer friend. Creative kids will love making rolled candles using dyed beeswax sheets and cotton wicks. FROM THE CHILDREN’S HERITAGE SOURCEBOOK , PHOTOGR APHED BY SAR A PRINCE, COURTESY OF RIZ ZOLIUSA.COM. COURTESY OF RIZ ZOLIUSA.COM ❑ Bake sourdough biscuits. Prepare delicious, flaky biscuits that can be topped with jam, honey or butter. You’ll need to make a sourdough starter first or borrow a bit from a sourdough-loving friend. Kids can stir the dough, roll it flat and cut out circles with a drinking glass before you bake the biscuits in a cast-iron pan. ❑ Sew a washcloth. Use new material or pieces of old textiles to create a handmade washcloth. Kids can pair up squares cut from terry cloth material and cotton or flannel fabric and then sew around the perimeter using a needle and thread or a sewing machine. Simple stitches such as the running stitch, whipstitch and blanket stitch are ideal for beginning sewers. ❑ Roll beeswax candles. Rolled candles are a fun introduction to candle making. You’ll need beeswax sheets, candle wicks and scissors. Kids can measure and cut the sheets and wicks to size and then roll the beeswax around the wick to form a candle. Discuss the importance of caution and supervision before you light the candle and enjoy the glow. Summer 2024 37
RIGHT: Helping adults complete building and maintenance tasks will pave the way for children to take the lead on future projects. Young kids can hold materials for an adult, while older kids can gain hands-on experience. PHOTOGR APHED BY WHITNE Y BINGHAM OF INSTAGR AM.COM / BINGHAMFARM. BELOW: Let children stand on chairs or sit on the counter to help prepare dishes that showcase whole, fresh ingredients. A tasty option like deviled eggs allows kids to practice multiple skills as they make a connection with their food. PHOTOGR APHED BY WHITNE Y BINGHAM OF INSTAGR AM.COM / BINGHAMFARM. Sew, Craft or Build Cook a Meal As with gardening, learning to cook from scratch lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating. “Teaching children that real food does not come in a package or box from a young age is a beautiful gift,” notes Colleen of Frenchie Farm. “Cooking from scratch while utilizing whole food ingredients not only teaches children the importance and value of nutrient-dense foods for our health and wellbeing, but it also teaches them long-forgotten skills that can be passed down through generations to come.” Kids will love all the sensory experiences—and mess—of the kitchen. Start with simple recipes for baked goods such as bread or biscuits. Try seasonal dishes that feature fresh produce that kids have harvested from the garden or selected at a farmers market. Allow them to measure, stir, scoop, pour and taste. As older kids grow into competent cooks, let them choose and prepare a meal all on their own. 38 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style Look for other activities that kids can tackle, both indoors and out. Teach a bit of hand-sewing and kids will be able to repair their own clothing and home textiles. The ability to knit or crochet can result in useful goods like warm blankets and winter apparel. Pick up a set of small hand tools so kids can work alongside adults on basic construction or maintenance projects. “Building can provide unique opportunities for children to learn math by incorporating numbers, measurements and angles while building,” explains Whitney of Bingham Farm. Have Fun! As you embark on this adventure, remember that every kid is different and will have varying levels of interest and attention span. Don’t be afraid to change course when necessary. Practicing new skills will be challenging at times, but it should be rewarding overall. “Make learning fun and hands-on, and you will cultivate a true love for learning that will last them a lifetime,” Whitney says.
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Fresh Farm-Style Homes The allure of the casual, comfortable nature of farmhouse style is conveyed by many homes, whether they are on farms or not. The three houses in this issue are far from Midwestern rural fields, taking root instead near a lake in South Carolina, nestled among nature in North Carolina and amidst ancient oaks and marshland in northeast Florida. But one thing they all have in common is that familiar blend of weathered furnishings, carefully curated found objects, and relaxing open spaces. Summer 2024 41

LAYERING on the A neutral palette and collected finds make this lake-community cabin in South Carolina a year-round retreat. Photographed by GRIDLEY + GRAVES. Written by ELYSE MAJOR. The original stone fireplace in Sandra Boylan’s living room ties in with natural wood tones and woven goods but is balanced by the white walls, beams and furniture. A cowhide rug bought at the famed Round Top Antiques Fair in Texas anchors the seating area with a layer of pattern and down-home style. Summer 2024 43
The Boylans suspended leadedglass windows from chains over the living room windows to provide architectural interest and a bit of privacy while keeping the space flooded with light.
W hen it comes to creative pursuits, there’s not much Sandra Boylan won’t try. She’s worked as an interior designer, a cosmetologist and a seller of vintage goods. Along the way, she’s painted pet portraits, refurbished furniture, stitched Halloween costumes and built a backyard koi pond. So, when she and her husband, Travis, considered purchasing a 1980s cabin on Lake Keowee in Salem, South Carolina, the fact that it needed a major update didn’t give her pause. “I’ve got to be doing something every day,” says Sandra of her drive to create. When the couple took ownership of the property in 2017, they were living in Georgia and had to travel to work on the cabin. “We spent that whole first summer entertaining friends every weekend, then in the fall we started renovating and doing a lot of the work ourselves. I would come up mid-week while my hubby held down the fort at home, and I’d work,” Sandra recalls. She picked up a nail gun and never looked back, installing shiplap-style wall and ceiling treatments in several rooms as part of the renovation. “Mind you, I’d never done this before; I learned as I went,” she says. Other updates included removing carpet and linoleum flooring, installing wide window and door trim, painting cherry ceiling beams and cabinets, and reconfiguring the kitchen. Though she’s comfortable with tools, designing interiors is where Sandra truly shines. The cabin’s refurbished rooms are balanced and flow seamlessly thanks to her cohesive use of warm natural materials, such as wood flooring, architectural salvage pieces and woven baskets, paired with blocks of creamy white. Layering is also key, whether it’s mounting decorative windows over standard ones, placing an accent rug over an area rug, or hanging a boxwood wreath atop a shutter. Sandra describes her decorating style as a blend of curated collections acquired over time and a casual, welcoming vibe. “I like to decorate with items that have history and tell a story,” she says. While that style perfectly suits the lake-community retreat where the couple now live year-round, Sandra insists that it is more a reflection of her personality than the space. “I would decorate the same way if I was in a high-rise,” she says. Antlers hung on the living room wall offer an organic flourish that connects with nearby shapes in this asymmetrical composition. Follow Sandra on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ vintagewhisperer. Summer 2024 45
TOP: Techniques like varying heights, grouping items and mixing textures—all within a limited color range—make for vignettes that look collected, not cluttered. This is the case with this dining room display, which features ironstone plates mounted on the wall, various sizes of topiaries, collections of glass bottles and books, and more. ABOVE: A dining room cabinet upcycled with distressed chalky-finish paint becomes a neutral base for a collection of fallen bird’s nests perched on carved wood candlesticks. Two demijohn bottles—one old, one new—add shine among dull surfaces. The chalkboard tags are sentimental reminders of family birthdays. 46 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Thin plywood underlayment cut into shiplap-style strips is a budget-friendly way to add natural warmth to ceilings. Though they hail from different sources, the dining table and chairs are united by their wood tones. Woven wood shades and wicker baskets contribute to the room’s warm vibes, while the blue-gray hutch offers cool contrast. Summer 2024 47
STYLED Not Staged An interior designer and avid DIYer, Sandra is a literal pro when it comes to creating living spaces that are as inviting as they are interesting; a large part of achieving that is an effective use of layering, maintaining a limited color scheme, and giving each grouping space to breathe and shine. Here are some tips and takeaways to try at home: EXPLORE. Take time when building collections and investigate various retailers, from small sellers and thrift shops to larger stores and venues. If aiming for a storied look, avoid buying themed decor sets and opt for single items. ASSEMBLE. Many of Sandra’s vignettes begin with something tall surrounded by items in odd-numbered groupings, and she’s sure to employ different shapes and finishes as well. Take photos during the process to guide you as you play and style. LIMIT. Sandra keeps her colorway restrained, starting with a neutral base and adding beige, taupe and natural browns in different textures. This directive can be applied to any color for tone-ontone impact. 48 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Sandra put her interior design knowledge to use in the kitchen by reconfiguring the floor plan, replacing upper cabinets with open shelves, installing a larger window over the sink, and covering ceiling space between beams with unpainted shiplap-style wood. Summer 2024 49
Sandra cleverly uses swing-arm sconces for task lighting in the kitchen. The custom range hood gets an industrial look via affixed straps and dowel caps spray-painted in layered iron and brass finishes. BELOW LEFT: While topping cabinets with faux greenery may be out of fashion, arranging a few cascading houseplants, herbs and topiaries on open shelving is a great way to bring a bit of nature indoors. BELOW RIGHT: A tray centerpiece is finished with silver-plate vessels filled with mother-of-pearl buttons. “They always come out on display in the summer,” says Sandra of the collection. 50 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Adhering to a taupe-and-white palette in the primary bedroom, Sandra assembles layers of coordinating bedding that provide texture and mesh well with the upholstered headboard and accent pieces.
To put their own touch on the house, the Boylans repainted the exterior, removed the porch railing, added board-and-batten shutters and replaced the front door. Ways to Prime 1. Incorporate seating. Nothing makes even a postage stamp–sized porch into a gathering place like a chair or two. Look for all-weather pieces and durable fabrics. YOUR PORCH 2. for Entertaining A large front porch is one of the features that attracted the Boylans to their home. Over the years, they’ve made some modifications to ensure it’s a charming spot for morning coffee and evening wine. Whether you have a porch, deck or front stoop, consider these five ideas for making the most of it. 52 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style Keep it clean. Whether this means a regular power-wash or a quick sweep, a tidy area promotes serenity. 3. Add extra lighting. Plug-in string lights, solarpowered Edison bulbs, candles, and batteryoperated lanterns will all keep the party going long after the sun goes down. 4. Include leafy greens. Potted plants, herbs and flowers provide instant seasonal appeal. No time to water? Check your nearby crafts or discount store for realistic faux versions. 5. Be ready to serve. Keep the kitchen fridge stocked with favorite summer drinks so you can offer refreshments outdoors at a moment’s notice.
Nothing says summer like white wicker softened up with checked cushions. Sandra started collecting the wicker pieces before the couple moved into the home. Soft sculptured Grandma Broom® Vacuum Covers, Grandma Broom® Covers, and Small Free Standing Grandmas. Available in country, Victorian and farmhouse fabrics, lace, muslin. www.butterflymornings.com ❖ 706-878-1262 www.appletreewoodcrafts.com Summer 2024 53
Decorative birdhouses on the porch are a nod to the winged creatures that frequent the woodsy locale; the wicker chaise lounge, a Facebook Marketplace purchase, is a coveted spot for bird-watching. Sandra and Travis enjoy spending time on the porch of their home in upstate South Carolina. “ I like to decorate with items that have history and tell a story.” 54 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
The porch overlooks a landscaped backyard and brick path and is a favorite place for relaxing on the comfortable daybed. A fan mounted beneath the overhang not only keeps the area cool but also deters insects. Summer 2024 55
of Place Years after falling in love with a North Carolina cottage, a creative couple make it their own, crafting a home that tells their story one room at a time. Photographed by GRIDLEY + GRAVES. Written by KHRISTI ZIMMETH. 56 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Designed by an architect from Louisiana, Daune and Keith Pitman’s cottage has an authentic Acadian design, including a steep sloped gable roof and covered porch. Through the years, the couple have planted a garden, updated the interiors and made the home suitable for their growing family. “L Daune looks forward to time outdoors. “We start each day with an early morning walk and end each day with a nightly bike ride,” she explains. ove at first sight” is how Daune Pitman describes her first encounter with Oak Cottage, the authentic Acadian cottage that she and her husband, Keith, now call home. It was the early 1990s and the 2,500-square-foot house was empty, but the newly engaged couple stopped for a peek and could see it was filled with potential. However, as professional ballet dancers with a busy travel schedule and aspirations to live in New England, they weren’t planning on settling down in Greenville, North Carolina. A few years later, while awaiting the birth of their first child, they started thinking about putting down roots. “I realized we had a lot of family in eastern North Carolina and remembered that house,” Daune recalls. She “pulled out her best Nancy Drew skills” and discovered that the house in Greenville was being used as a rental, but the lease was up and the homeowner wanted to sell. “After that,” she says, “everything fell into place.” Built in 1985, the five-bedroom, three-bath cottage features a high foundation, an open layout and an expansive front porch. Brick from a Civil War–era structure in Virginia and heart-pine floors from an antebellum house in Alabama provide charm and character. However, in 1995, the home’s unique architecture, uncoordinated wallpapers and dark knotty pine cabinets probably deterred other potential buyers. Luckily, the Pitmans could look past those undesirable elements to envision the light-filled sanctuary it would become. And as a bonus, the house didn’t need structural work, only cosmetic changes. Daune’s distinctive decorating style, rooted in nature and favorite locales, helped guide the home’s transformation. She arranges a meaningful mix of new items, antiques and art, which is a reflection of the couple’s diverse interests. Daune describes the result as an “eclectic European cottage … a curated home that tells our story without words.” Her blog, Cottage in the Oaks, offers a window into her life and style and links people to the workshops she leads, both close to home and around the world. Her classes are designed to help others explore and harness their creativity and shape their homes to reflect it. “Our homes should be a life-giving, soul-refreshing soft place to land—a beautiful place to recharge and rejuvenate,” she says. “Your home should mirror who you are and the stories you carry.” Visit Daune’s blog at www.cottageintheoaks.com, or follow her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/cottageintheoaks. Summer 2024 57
Natural Selection “I love the colors and textures that nature adds to a space,” says Daune, who leads online and in-person workshops that include advice on finding and using foraged beauty. “Luckily for me, I have a big garden,” she says, explaining that many of the dried plants and greens in her home come from her own backyard, an oasis she and Keith have created in the 28 years since they bought the house. She offers a few tips for integrating natural materials into your own interiors. n Cut and Dried. Search your yard and neighborhood for pods, stems, flowers and vines with interesting lines and shapes. Dried shelf fungi from trees are another eye-catching option. Watch out for materials when you go for walks or bike rides. “Many flowers and greens will keep their color beautifully when dried,” Daune says. “They can be used for all kinds of projects, including art, gift wrapping, arrangements or table settings.” n Herbal Harvest. Your garden or local garden center is ripe for the picking. Dry herbs and display them indoors for long-lasting texture and scent. To dry, bundle the stems with twine, fabric or wire and hang upside down in an area that gets good air circulation. “Our gathering and inspiration board is ever evolving with reminders and ideas for life, home and business,” Daune says of the large piece mounted on a kitchen wall. “It reminds us of what we hold as important, what we envision for the future, where we’ve been, and where we’re going.” n Green Scene. Mix dried and textural elements with seasonal fare, such as fruits or evergreens, which are readily accessible and retain their color. Find out more about Daune’s workshops and mini courses on everything from planning picnics to seasonal decorating to creating an inspiration board at www.thecottagetableexperience.com. 58 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
White cabinetry and subway tile allow the stained-glass window over the kitchen sink to take center stage in the compact space. As in several other areas of the home, a curtain stylishly conceals a storage spot.
Give a soaring fireplace wall even more prominence with a pair of built-in shelving units and vintage book pages upcycled as wallpaper.
OPPOSITE: Daune and Keith recently swapped the locations of the living room and dining room. Known for their large dinner parties and their gracious entertaining skills, the couple wanted space for a long trestle table. “Gathering and spending time at the table is treasured time for us,” Daune says. RIGHT: A knotted tassel garland is the perfect textural counterpoint to the outdoorsy accents arranged on the dining room mantel. BELOW: Evidence of the couple’s varied interests can be found throughout the home. “Keith has a big rock collection,” Daune says, adding that she collects art, natural items, vintage European linens and other things of beauty. Curtains Up! Take a cue from European cottages, and introduce softness, color and pattern by replacing select doors and cabinet fronts with curtains. “When we bought Oak Cottage, every closet sported louvered doors,” Daune says of one of her least favorite elements. Whether you do it on a hall closet, dining room bookshelf or kitchen sink cabinet, hanging curtains is a wonderful way to add character and charm—and hide stuff, according to Daune. Follow these basic instructions for any application. MATERIALS & TOOLS Spring tension curtain rod to fit opening Metallic spray paint (optional) Curtain clip rings in desired finish Fabric for curtain (1½ times the opening width) INSTRUCTIONS STEP 1 Spray-paint a spring tension rod if you can’t find one in the finish you desire. Let dry. STEP 2 Slide curtain clip rings onto the rod, and then position it in the opening and twist to tighten. STEP 3 Cut fabric and sew to create a curtain with simple hems on each edge. Matching thread Sewing machine STEP 4 Hang the curtain using the clip rings. Summer 2024 61
ABOVE: The Pitmans’ children are grown, but their presence is felt in the dining room, where a favorite family photo hangs above a buffet. Many of Daune’s signature decor elements are also on display, including ferns and dried natural materials. RIGHT: Speckled eggs, variegated feathers and other collected natural treasures find a home alongside wood mushrooms on the mantel in the dining room. 62 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
This bedroom was covered in primary-hued heart wallpaper when the couple purchased the house. Today, it features the same fresh look seen in other rooms. The solid-wood door resembles a European antique thanks to extra trim added by Keith and a paint treatment applied by Daune. Above the headboard, dried palm leaves become a work of art. Summer 2024 63
Would you like to make a garland similar to this with yarn? Scan code to find an assortment of beautiful farmhouse-style colors. ABOVE: The family philosophy is displayed on a banner above the welcoming front door. Windows are dressed simply or left unadorned to let in as much natural light as possible. RIGHT: Layered breadboards on a living room cabinet provide a rustic backdrop for smaller art pieces. 64 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Garlands spanning the space between curtain panels are a casual alternative to a valance. Once the dining room, the cozy living room has the same white and wood palette found throughout the home. “A lot of the base colors in the house are neutral,” Daune explains, adding that simple backgrounds “open the door to whatever season it is.” Summer 2024 65
Installing open shelving at the bottom of the stairs is among the couple’s recent projects and transforms a seldom-used space into a dynamic display area. 66 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
LEFT: The long front porch caught the couple’s eye when they first looked at the house. Today, they often eat breakfast at a small dining table and spend evenings unwinding on the cushioned bench swing. BELOW: Keith and Daune often use their front porch to relax or visit with friends and family. House Lamp (with linen or gray check shade) available in Rustic White or Weathered Zinc finish Warmly Welcome Guests W I T H I M A G I N AT I V E D E S I G N Milk Jug Lamp (with linen or gray check shade) www.allysonsplace.com  816-569-3911 Summer 2024 67

The patio dining room in Ellen and Gregg Winter’s home is a breezy indoor/outdoor entertaining spot that sits between the main kitchen and the outdoor kitchen.
This supersize kitchen island with butcher-block top can seat up to seven people. That’s because, as Gregg says, “the kitchen ends up being the center of the universe when you have good friends over, and we wanted to facilitate that.” 70 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
The Winters gravitated to soft colors rather than an allwhite look for their new coastal farmhouse home. This beachy blue was the perfect compromise. Ellen says the dining room is probably their home’s most formal space—and it’s still quite casual, with a nautical rope chandelier and cool blue hues adding coastal flair. Making the Walls Sing Inside the Winter home, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a plain wall (or plain ceiling). The couple opted for visual interest and millwork over standard white drywall throughout the house. Here are some of their choices: ❖ Grasscloth. A textured wallpaper woven from natural plant fibers, as seen in the dining room. ❖ Wainscoting. Decorative wood paneling, usually installed on the lower part of a wall. ❖ Board-and-batten. Thin wood strips that are arranged into geometric shapes or patterns, as seen in the dining room. ❖ Nickel gap. Named for the spacing between boards (nickel width), versus shiplap’s typically flush look, as seen in the bunk room and other spaces in the home. ❖ Deconstructed walls. Unfinished two-byfours and beams that were whitewashed but not painted, as seen in the guest room. Summer 2024 71
This mudroom doubles as a “dog room” for the couple’s labradoodle, with a dog bathing area and subtle storage for bowls, food and leashes. The herringbone floor looks like brick, but it’s an easy-to-clean ceramic tile. Pretty Patterns The Winter home is packed with pattern, from unique wallpapers, including a petite puppy-print in the mudroom, to painted wood floors. In fact, Gregg says the painted floor on the landing and in the hall is his favorite part of the whole house. The Winters hired a professional to paint the eye-catching design on their white-oak floor, but it can also be a DIY project. If you choose to tackle it yourself, seek out online tutorials that address your specific surface and design goals, since each requires a different method and materials. 72 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
With a tiled backsplash, floating shelves holding glasses and barware, and a beverage fridge, the built-in alongside the fireplace serves as a wine and cocktail center. Plucked from a farmhouse in Georgia that had been torn down, the bulky, hand-hewn wood beams on the family room ceiling and around the Winters’ front doorway offer top-to-bottom visual interest and an authentically rustic feel.
A white cane bed adds to the timeless feel in the Winters’ primary bedroom. The same room “could have had a bed like that a hundred years ago,” Ellen says.
Ellen wanted the primary suite to be a refuge, so the couple aimed to make the bathroom feel spa-like and relaxing, with his-andhers sinks flanking a white soaking tub. ABOVE: A bunk room was on the Winters’ wish list for the new home, but most they’d seen before were tucked in dark corners. For theirs, they requested large windows—and a very long window seat— to be the dominant feature, with the bunks occupying the sides. White woodwork keeps the space bright. LEFT: The deconstructed walls in this guest bedroom are made from unfinished two-by-fours and beams that were whitewashed but not fully painted. The goal was for it to look like “an old-school addition to the house, tacked on at some point,” Gregg says. Summer 2024 75
ABOVE: Brick, siding and wood work in harmony while bringing texture to this screened-in side porch. ABOVE LEFT: This upstairs porch off the primary bedroom is the perfect spot to sit with a cup of tea in the morning and look out at the local park. LEFT: Every home in the Crane Island community is different, but all are inspired by Lowcountry design and the idea of porch living. 76 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
What Is Lowcountry Style? The term Lowcountry refers to the geographical and cultural region along the southeastern coast of the United States. Most closely identified with South Carolina, it also extends to Georgia and northeastern Florida. The architecture reflects both relaxed living and elegant, classic style. Homes typically feature spacious rooms with high ceilings and large double-hung windows to bolster air circulation. Multiple porches or verandas, often with “haint blue” ceilings to ward off evil spirits, allow for outdoor living and encourage Southern hospitality. Light-colored metal roofs that reflect the hot sun and stand up to subtropical rains are also common. Summer 2024 77

Do-It-Yourself Farmhouse The long sunny days of summer may have you spending hours hanging around outside, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up your DIY plans. Those endless days are perfect for completing a painting project on your driveway (no fumes in the house!) or crafting charming decor or wildlife habitats. We’ve got some great ideas for summer DIYs in this issue, including fresh centerpieces, personalized travel keepsakes, furniture redos and cool creations for backyard critters. Summer 2024 79
Bright Breezy Fresh flowers, garden produce and vintage finds help turn ordinary table settings into seasonal highlights. Try out other fruit-andflower combos, such as limes or small melons with zinnias or dahlias.
Curate a Bulb Exhibit Apothecary-style vases are ideal for showcasing tulips, daffodils and hyacinths any time of the year. Just fill the containers with water and add layers of moss and rocks around the bulbs for visual interest. You can find easy instructions online for coaxing each variety into bloom indoors. Arrange Delicious Layers Top rows of bright berries with a justpicked bouquet to fashion a display that looks luscious all around. Set a slender cylindrical vessel inside a wider cylindrical vase. In the space between the containers, carefully arrange layers of fresh blueberries and strawberries. Then, pour water into the center vase and add a mix of white daisies and red ranunculus. Pair Fruits With Florals Make a floral sculpture that’s perfect for the kitchen or the dining room by combining green pears, yellow roses and pretty greens. Line the bottom of a wire bowl with vibrant green moss. Place a shallow bowl on top of the moss and set a rectangle of soaked floral foam upright in the bowl. Stake pears with bamboo skewers and arrange them around the bottom and top of the foam. Cut roses and arrange them around the center of the foam. Tuck in ferns and ivy to fill gaps. Continue adding foliage until all the foam is covered. Summer 2024 81
Pack a Campy Picnic Basket Gather a collection of retro camp dishes in a painted basket to set a cheery picnic-style table. Fill the bottom of the basket with dry floral foam. Arrange a few plates at an angle and push them into the foam. Quarter-fold bandannas and drape one over each corner of the basket. Quarter-fold and loosely roll more bandannas and lay them between the plates to hide the foam. Create small flower arrangements in slim containers filled with wet floral foam. Set the containers between each plate. Place more small bouquets in mugs and position them at the front and back corners of the basket and on the table. Pen playful phrases on pennant-shaped tags tied to skewers, and tuck these into the centerpiece to greet your guests. Plant a Fancy Straw Hat A whimsical bloom-filled hat is sure to bring a smile on any summer table. Wrap a striped ribbon around your hat as a band and tie the ends into a bow in front. Cut a block of wet or dry floral foam to fit inside the hat, and push in fresh or faux flower stems and greenery. If using fresh cuttings, be sure add a waterproof liner inside the hat first.
Repurpose Vintage Bedsprings Rusty bedsprings are a hot decorating item. Put some to good use in a long table arrangement that everyone can appreciate from their own seat. This design uses two sections of bedsprings that are still connected with their original curled wires. If you can’t find springs that are still connected, attach lengths of curled wire to recreate the look. Start your centerpiece by laying down a burlap runner. Then, arrange your springs in a serpentine shape down the table, atop the runner. Place small terra-cotta pots into every other spring. Place test tubes in the center of the remaining springs, using a curled-wire stand at the base of each tube to keep it upright. To make the stands, twist annealed wire around a dowel rod and bend it into circles. Fill the tubes with fresh floral cuttings and water, and tuck votive candles into the clay pots. 19.99 $ PLUS FREE STANDARD SHIPPING* If you love jewelry, you’ll love us! TOTAL PACKAGE With this 10ctw white cubic zirconia ring and earring set, you have everything you need for an undeniably stylish outfit. Set in rhodium over sterling silver. 71% BELOW ESTIMATED RETAIL VALUE OF $70 Our new pearl-edged Kimberly adds a “little touch of color” to our popular exclusive Kimberly Ruffled Curtains. Proudly made in the USA. www.thecurtaincottage.com Support@thecurtaincottage.com 800-235-4088 and 336-434-7989 5221 Ellen Ave, Archdale, NC 27263 Item: BCB145 One coupon code per customer; one coupon code per order. Offer valid through July 9, 2024 at 11:59p ET. While supplies last. *Restrictions apply. See jtv.com for details. USE CODE: TOTAL24 800-315-9618 jtv.com/picture Summer 2024 83
Grow Real Grass Indoors Love the look of fresh green grass? Wheatgrass is super easy to grow indoors! Plant seeds in pots, or sow directly into a unique piece such as this wood sugar-cone mold. Let the grass grow for a week or two, and then use it as part of a living centerpiece. Fill a Charming Milk Crate An old wood dairy crate packed with glass milk bottles can become the host for a colorful floral arrangement. Add water and your favorite fresh-cut flowers to select bottles, leaving some empty for an airy arrangement. Open handles on the crate sides make this centerpiece easy to move when necessary. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY ELIZ ABE TH JONES OF COUNTRYPEONY.COM. 84 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Look for tiny metal bee embellishments in the scrapbooking or jewelry section of hobby or crafts stores. Wrap Candles With Honeycomb Patterns T IN AT HO ZLWKDQ E "Art To Go" Paint Kit! M PA Give a plain candle centerpiece a one-of-a-kind boost with chicken wire and metal bees. For each candle, cut a piece of chicken wire 1" to 1½" larger than the circumference of the candle. Cut away the wire on the top and bottom to create random-shaped edges. Wrap the chicken wire around each candle, cut open the closed ends where necessary, and overlap and bend the ends to secure. Glue or wire on the metal bees. “MATILDA THE COW” Everyone has an artist within them waiting to bloom. 3UHSULQWHGFDQYDVSDLQWVEUXVKHVDQGVWHSE\VWHSLQVWUXFWLRQV LQFOXGHG1RSDLQWLQJH[SHULHQFHQHFHVVDU\IXQIRUWKHZKROHIDPLO\ $29 ZZZWKHSDLQWHGSHWDOFRP  Summer 2024 85
Summer Souvenirs Hold on to vacation memories by crafting personalized travel keepsakes that will instantly transport you to that special place and time. 86 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
Family Gathering Cushy Destination Have a beloved souvenir T-shirt or sweatshirt that is damaged or doesn’t fit? Use it to cover a pillow! STEP 1 Choose a pillow form appropriate for the shirt size and design. This one is 12" x 18". STEP 2 Cut around the shirt design in a rectangle, adding 1" to the top and side (13" x 19"). Repurpose materials to create a shadow box that can showcase sweet reminders of time spent with loved ones. This project by Fabiana of Ciao Newport Beach was inspired by “a visit to Grandma’s farm” and includes vintage postcards, a handwritten recipe, spools of thread and more. To make a shadow box like Fabiana’s, match up an antique frame with a shallow wood crate and then attach with a strong adhesive. Cut a length of chicken wire and secure it inside the crate to help hold items in place and provide texture and farmhouse charm. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY FABIANA OF CIAONE WPORTBE ACH. BLOGSPOT.COM. STEP 3 Cut two solid-colored shirt pieces, one longer than the other, for the back (7" x 19" and 11" x 19"). STEP 4 Pin and then sew the top edge of the front piece to the long edge of the larger back piece, right sides in. Fold the remaining end of the larger back piece over ½" and sew across the width to create a finished edge. STEP 5 Pin and then sew the bottom edge of the front piece to the long edge of the smaller back piece, right sides in. Fold the remaining end of the smaller back piece over ½" and sew across the width to create a finished edge. STEP 6 With all right sides facing in, pin the open sides together with the larger back piece overlapping the smaller piece. Sew along each side (½" seam allowance) to close the pillow. STEP 7 Turn the cover right side out and insert the pillow form. Add loose batting to fill the corners if desired. Heartwarming Coastal Art Arrange a group of collected beach finds as a new work of art. This project from Jasmine Dhillon at Feeling Nifty is a beautiful addition to summer decor. Start with a black shadow-box frame with a linen-style backing. Use a pencil to trace a heart shape onto the frame backing or a piece of card stock cut to fit the frame. Starting with larger seashells, evenly distribute them inside the shape and secure with tacky glue. Adhere medium-size shells next. Fill in gaps and edge the shape with small shells. Finish with decorative pearls for a little shine. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY JASMINE DHILLON OF FEELINGNIF T Y.COM. Summer 2024 87
Sand Samples Display natural souvenirs with a set of test tubes filled with sand, beach glass or earth gathered at your favorite spots. Secure several 20 x 150 mm test tubes on a whitewashed wood plaque using a ¾" galvanized-steel hanger strap. Use the strap’s first hole to screw the strap to the wood base. Then, bend the strap with pliers around a ¾" dowel to match the curve of the first test tube and secure with another screw. (Do not bend the strap around the fragile glass tubes.) Repeat for all your test tubes, allowing about 1" between tubes. When the entire strap is shaped and secured, gently slide the tubes into place. If one won’t slide in easily, slightly loosen the screws on either side. Label your collection with industrial-style tags printed with the location where the contents were gathered. Spell out “Memories” or another word with letter stamps below the tubes. Serving of Nostalgia LEARN MORE TRANSFER METHODS ONLINE Get instructions from The Graphics Fairy at http://thegraphicsfairy.com/ 12-easy-image-transfermethods-for-diy-projects. 88 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style Preserve a vacation snapshot from the past by transferring it to a wood tray that you can enjoy every day. This tray was created from a photocopied image and fun sentiment that were transferred using an image transfer medium. Enlarge and copy your photo and text in reverse with a toner or laser copier. Apply transfer medium to the front of the image and the area on an unfinished wood tray where it will be placed. Press the image onto the tray and smooth out bubbles. Let dry completely. Lightly wet the paper with a sponge. Gently rub to remove the paper, leaving the image on the tray. Let dry, and then tape off the image with painter’s tape. Paint the tray a coordinating color and let dry. Lightly sand the corners and edges to give it an aged look. Coat the entire tray with waterproof sealer for protection.
Memorable Journey Stitch the path of a summer adventure on a canvas map to hang on your wall. STEP 1 Print your desired map area in black and white on an 8½" x 11" natural canvas photo fabric sheet. STEP 2 Thread a needle with two to three strands of embroidery floss, securing the far end with a knot. Stitch along the path with short, straight lines, keeping the stitch lengths as even as possible. Finish with the floss on the underside of the canvas and secure with a knot. Stitch additional paths from your trip in other colors if desired. STEP 3 Measure and cut 1½"w x ¼"d unfinished craft wood strips into four 11½" lengths. Brush with a brown paint wash or stain and let dry. STEP 4 Using hot glue, adhere one strip across the top of the map, covering approximately ½" of the canvas. Glue a second strip to the back, aligning it with the first. Clamp or weight the strips until the glue sets. STEP 5 Attach the remaining two wood strips to the bottom of the canvas in the same fashion. STEP 6 Insert two small eye screws through the top wood strips. Reinforce with hot glue if necessary. STEP 7 Thread a ribbon through the eye hooks and secure each end with a knot. Treasure Chest Turn an unfinished wood box into a themed container to hold vacation mementos. Camilla Fabbri at Family Chic used an eye-catching London tourist map to create her memory box. Choose a box like hers and remove the hinges and front clasp. Trace all sides of the box onto map paper or scrapbook paper. Cut out the pieces and adhere them to the box with decoupage medium, following the manufacturer’s directions. Once dry, reinstall the hinges. Fill the box with photos and small souvenirs from your trip. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY CAMILL A FABBRI OF FAMILYCHIC.COM. Summer 2024 89
Try these easy designer techniques to give fresh style and personality to old furnishings. Textured Wallpaper Treatment Make over a wood nightstand with a roll of paintable anaglypta wallpaper and cool gray and white hues. STEP 1 Remove hardware and lightly sand all wood surfaces. Use an air compressor or bristle brush to remove all surface dust, especially in corners. STEP 2 Measure the areas where you will apply wallpaper and mark on the back of the paper. Cut pieces using a metal-edge ruler and sharp craft knife. STEP 3 Working with one wallpaper piece at a time, apply a generous coat of spray adhesive to the back. Carefully place it on the nightstand, starting at the top edge. Press the paper outward, smoothing out any wrinkles or air pockets. As the adhesive dries, smooth any additional wrinkles. Once all the pieces are attached, allow to dry overnight. STEP 4 Paint the nightstand with a medium-gray matte-finish paint, including the wallpapered sections. Let dry. STEP 5 Using a bristle brush, dry brush white paint over the gray paint on only the wood portions. Let dry. STEP 6 Add a small amount of white paint to a sponge brush and lightly swipe across the wallpaper, highlighting the raised areas. Let dry. STEP 7 Paint and reinstall the original hardware or replace with new knobs or pulls. 90 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
DESIGNER HINT Cut and orient the wallpaper pieces to focus on a specific portion of the pattern or direction of the design.
Planted Purpose Turn a slim wood table into a stylish stand for your favorite plants. Camilla Fabbri at Family Chic offers the details. Start by roughly sanding the table with sandpaper. Remove dust and wipe down all the wood. Brush on paint in your desired hue and finish, letting dry between coats. Attach 1" round wood knobs evenly around the table’s top edge with wood glue. Adhere wood appliqués to the table’s front apron. Allow to dry. Paint the applied wood details to match the rest of the table. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY CAMILL A FABBRI OF FAMILY-CHIC.COM.
Farmhouse Swap S HORT OR TALL? Pine table legs like these are avai lable in different he ights to suit your pr oject. Hate the legs on a table? Change them out for a style that’s a better fit! Christina Muscari from Pretty Distressed replaced the dated scrolled-metal base on a coffee table with turned-wood legs that have a farmhouse look. On your table, remove the old base or legs and then strip and sand the tabletop and apron. Attach four unfinished-wood legs, which you can find at most home improvement stores. Replace any hardware necessary to ensure the legs fit securely. Apply a water-based gel stain in light coats to the tabletop, apron and legs. The goal is to create a uniform finish across all the pieces. Finish with a topcoat for extra protection. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY CHRISTINA MUSCARI OF PRE T T YDISTRESSED.COM. Tile Topper Tabletops with frame-like edging are a ready canvas for creative embellishment. Do Dodson purchased this curvy pie-crust table for just $5 and gave it a one-of-a-kind look with white penny tiles and paint. To complete a project like hers, clean and prep your table and paint as desired, avoiding the area you plan to tile. Measure the area and purchase ceramic tile in a size and shape that will fit well without requiring any cutting. To attach, use a soft rubber scraper or spatula to spread ceramic tile adhesive across the tabletop and then press the tiles into place. Allow the adhesive to dry for 24 hours. Apply premixed grout with sealer between the tiles and around the outer edges using the same tool. Fill in all the gaps. Let dry for 30 minutes and then carefully wipe across the tiles with a damp sponge to remove excess grout. Wash out the sponge frequently. After another 30 minutes, wipe again with a damp sponge. Repeat until the tiles are clean and no film is visible. Allow to dry for 24 hours. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY DO DODSON OF DODODSONDESIGNS.COM. Summer 2024 93
DIXIE BELLE PAINT COMPANY: Anchor Contemporary Stenciling Get the look of a boneinlay design without the actual bones! Do Dodson made this statement piece using stencils instead. For best results, choose a wood dresser with flat surfaces and no raised details. Paint the base in the dark matte-finish color of your choice. Let dry at least 24 hours. Do stripped and stained the wood top of her dresser for contrast. Trim or combine bone-inlay stencils as needed for your project and secure in place with delicatesurface painter’s tape. Load a stencil brush with a small amount of cream-colored paint, offload onto a paper plate and then tap over the stencil. Add paint in light layers to cover the stencil without paint bleeding underneath. If you make a mistake, simply paint over it and try again. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY DO DODSON OF DODODSONDESIGNS. COM. Two-Tone Design Highlight the classic lines of an Eastlake dresser with a black-and-wood color scheme. Lindsay Eidahl of My Creative Days found her dresser at a thrift store and gave the distressed piece an updated look. Choose a similar furnishing and make any necessary repairs first. Then scuff-sand the entire piece and remove all dust. Apply a neutral wood-restoring product to the drawer fronts, following the manufacturer’s directions. Paint the rest of the dresser with a black all-in-one paint using a synthetic brush. Once dry, reassemble the dresser and install new hardware. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY LINDSAY EIDAHL OF MYCRE ATIVEDAYS.COM. 94 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
DIXIE BELLE PAINT COMPANY: Coffee Bean DIXIE BELLE PAINT COMPANY: Buttercream WHAT IS BONE INLAYING? A centuries-old decora tive art that involves cuttin g bone fragments and app lying them in intricate patter ns on a contrasting backgrou nd.
BENJAMIN MOORE: Garden Oasis Lightened Up Sometimes a furniture piece has a distinctive feature that doesn’t shine like it could. A case in point is this carvedwood chair that Jen Crider from Girl in the Garage had stowed in her garage for several years. Jen decided on a layered paint technique to accentuate the carving and hide imperfections. When working with a similar chair, start by removing the seat and tightening the frame. Apply brown-gray chalky-finish paint over the wood, leaving some areas of the original finish showing through. Next, apply dark cream paint to select areas to highlight details and add dimension. Finally, add one more layer of brown-gray paint, allowing previous layers to peek through in spots. Lightly sand with 320-grit sandpaper to blend paint lines and highlight details. Reinstall the seat, or follow Jen’s lead and reupholster it with foam padding and fabric before installing. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY JEN CRIDER OF GIRLINTHEG AR AGE.COM. ANNIE SLOAN CHALK PAINT: Coco ANNIE SLOAN CHALK PAINT: Old Ochre Modern Styling Keep an unwanted furniture piece out of the landfill by updating it to fit your preferred look. Colleen Pausley at Life on Kaydeross Creek salvaged a damaged Duncan Phyfe–style hutch and revived it with a more modern top line and chic green paint. For your project, fix or remove any damaged or undesirable elements first. Colleen pried off the decorative scrolled piece on her hutch to produce a cleaner look. Rough up the finish with sandpaper and wipe down with a tack cloth. Apply coats of primer to cover the original finish and let dry. Paint the entire piece a green shade like Colleen did or choose another color that suits your decor. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY COLLEEN PAUSLE Y OF MYLIFEONK AYDEROSSCREEK.COM. 96 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style

PROJEC TS FOR A Pollinator-Friendly Incorporate features that attract beneficial creatures and create a thriving outdoor habitat that’s good for you and the planet.
Install a Repurposed Birdhouse Many birds are avid insect eaters and can help control garden pests as well as disperse seeds and assist with pollination. Provide a nesting spot for feathered friends by turning a vintage cathedral-style radio cabinet into a birdhouse. Detach the back panel of a nonfunctioning radio and remove the internal components so that only the wood case remains. Create an opening for birds to enter, perhaps by removing a dial from the front of the cabinet and enlarging the hole slightly. Replace the backing, making sure it can be removed for an annual cleanout. Mount the birdhouse on a post that is at least 5 feet off the ground to deter predators. Situate it in a shady area facing the opposite direction from prevailing winds. Since nesting birds prefer privacy, locate the birdhouse away from feeding and watering stations. Leave out safe, natural nesting material, such as twigs, dry leaves and moss, but don’t place it in areas that call attention to a bird’s potential nest. Build a Bee Hotel Honeybees tend to be the celebrities of the garden, but many species of solitary bees and wasps are wonderful pollinators as well. These species nest in natural nooks, such as hollow plant stems, which you can replicate with a bee hotel. STEP 1 Start with a hexagon-shaped wood box that is at least 4" deep. The closed bottom of the box will become the back of your bee hotel. STEP 2 Measure two of the sides for the peaked roof, adding extra to have at least a 1" overhang on the sides and front. The back should remain flush. Cut a thin board to size and then cut in half. Sand one piece along the center edge at an angle so it will rest somewhat flat against the second at the pitch. Attach the roof to the box with waterproof adhesive or short nails or screws that do not protrude inside the box. STEP 3 Paint the outside of the box a light color if desired. Use a water-based paint to avoid deterring or harming the bees. STEP 4 Using the wood roof measurement, cut a single piece of vinyl faux-tin backsplash material. Orient the tile design so a seam aligns with the peak of the roof. Carefully bend the piece so it will fit over the roof. Attach with a waterproof adhesive, holding in place until the glue is set. Drive in short metal tacks across the top and bottom of the roof. STEP 5 Cut a 2- to 2½"-diameter natural branch into a length that matches the depth of the box. Drill ¼" or smaller holes in one of the cut ends. Place the branch in the center of the box. STEP 6 Cut phragmite reed or cardboard bee tubes, which can be ordered online, into lengths that match the depth of the box. Arrange the tubes around the branch to fit snugly with no movement. Do not apply any glue. This allows you to clean the box and replace the tubes as necessary. STEP 7 Attach a D-ring hanger to the back of the box. Mount your completed bee hotel in a sunny spot near flowers or trees, 3'–15' off the ground. Summer 2024 99
MAKE YOUR YA R D A Wildlife Habitat No matter its size, your yard can become a haven for local wildlife and help combat habitat loss and species decline. Bees, butterflies, birds, amphibians and other beneficial creatures require basic resources to survive, and you can ensure those resources are readily available. Follow guidance from the National Wildlife Federation and take steps to provide the four essential elements of a wildlife habitat on your property. Craft a Toad House A garden isn’t complete without a friendly toad or two, and these beneficial amphibians are an indicator of a healthy ecosystem. Most are nocturnal and avoid the sun, preferring to shelter in cool, shady spots. With a terra-cotta pot and a few other supplies, you can build an inviting home for Mr. (or Mrs.) Toad. STEP 1 Gather a short terra-cotta pot and two saucers, one for the floor and one for the roof. STEP 2 Soak the pot overnight to soften the clay. Mark a half-circle at the edge and drill a series of closely placed holes along the line using a small masonry bit. Connect the dots using a rotary cutting tool and a carbide tile-cutting bit. Dampen the pot with a sponge as you drill, letting the bit cool about every 15 seconds. File the edge smooth. STEP 3 Dry brush the surface of the pot and the saucers with off-white paint. Stamp “Mr. Toad” over the opening using permanent ink. STEP 4 Turn one saucer upside down. Apply masonry epoxy to the inside edge of the pot. Center the overturned pot over the upside-down saucer so it rests against the edge. Adhere the other saucer in place as the roof. STEP 5 Nestle the completed toad house among lush plants in a cool area of your garden. FOOD: Your space should have native plants, foliage, nectar, berries, seeds, pollen and sap to nourish wildlife. Supplement with seed, suet or nectar feeders. WATER: Sources of water should be available year-round for wildlife to get a drink, bathe or breed. This can include natural water sources, such as a lake or stream, as well as birdbaths, butterfly puddlers, and garden ponds. COVER: To escape harsh weather and predators, wildlife needs shelter in the form of wooded areas, brambles, groundcover, log piles and evergreen shrubs. PLACES TO RAISE YOUNG: Special areas are required for wildlife to successfully reproduce. Make sure there are mature trees, dense shrubs, caterpillar host plants, fallen leaves and branches, and nesting boxes in your yard. 100 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style Toads and frogs feed on common garden pests like caterpillars, grasshoppers and slugs.
Add a Water Feature Some wildlife will stop by your pond for a drink, while others will make it their home. All living things need water to survive, so a small pond is a surefire way to bring more pollinators and other wildlife to your garden. Galvanized-metal stock tanks make excellent container ponds, according to Melissa Will at Empress of Dirt. She recommends situating your garden pond in a location with access to a GFCI electrical outlet for powering a recirculating pond pump and near an outdoor water spigot for topping up the pond. Choose a pump sized appropriately for the volume of water your stock tank holds and with any attachments you may want, such as a bubbler or fountain spray. Add hardy aquatic plants in the pond, using bricks, rocks or other materials to hold them at their preferred depths in the water. Plant layers of greenery around the tank to help it blend into your garden. Just be sure to arrange elements thoughtfully to ensure any creatures can get in and out of the pond safely. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY MELISSA WILL OF EMPRESSOFDIRT.NE T. Assemble Butterfly Waterers Invite a variety of butterflies to your garden by providing them with a safe sipping spot. These colorful pollinators enjoy “puddling” in wet areas to take in liquid and dissolved minerals, but they cannot land on water. Shallow vessels filled with a small amount of water, plus optional sand and rocks, allow butterflies to perch while visiting—and they make a pretty garden focal point. STEP 1 Choose ceramic dipping bowls in flower and leaf shapes and then gather appropriate-size hardware. For each waterer, you’ll need a flat metal washer that fits inside the recessed area on the underside of the bowl, a length of ¼" copper pipe that is hollow and a long flat-head screw that is slightly smaller than the pipe interior for a snug fit. STEP 2 Feed each screw through a washer and apply a waterproof adhesive around the opening. Let dry. STEP 3 Place the bowls facedown on a flat surface. Lightly sand the recessed area with sandpaper and then cover it with silicone or waterproof glue. Press the screw head and washer into the glue. Apply additional adhesive over the washer. As the adhesive dries, make sure the screws remain vertically straight. STEP 4 Insert the screw secured to the base of each bowl into the top of a copper pipe. Add adhesive around the screw before inserting it to stabilize the pieces or to permanently attach them. STEP 5 Choose a sunny, protected area in your garden for the watering station. To avoid bending the lightweight copper, use a screwdriver to create pilot holes in the ground before inserting the pipes. Add water to the bowls as well as sand and rocks if desired. Summer 2024 101
Clever Container Makeovers Think outside the box, bottle or basket to refashion inexpensive everyday containers as novel home accessories. 1 Berry Basket Planter The classic shape of a berry basket makes for a cute hanging planter. Using a paper punch, make a hole on each side of all four corners of a molded fiber berry basket. Put on gloves and spread adhesive grout mix evenly over the entire basket, inside and out. Clear open areas and holes and let dry. Apply additional layers of grout mix if necessary; the container should feel stronger and firm to the touch when dry. Thread a length of twine through the holes in the top rim and tie the ends in a tidy knot. Cut four even lengths of twine and knot one end of each to the twine on the inside corners of the container. Gather the other ends together and tie in a single knot. Use hot glue or silicone to attach the bottom of a short plastic cup to the bottom of the basket as a waterproof liner. Add soil and a low-growing plant. Fill in around the cup with moss or excelsior. Hang your planter on a protected patio or covered porch.
2 Woven Basket Mirror Reinvent a retired basket as a farmhouse wall mirror. Start by applying a gray paint wash over the basket if desired. When dry, add small areas of a lighter gray paint wash to highlight the woven texture. If your basket is recessed in the center, attach a beveled round wood plaque, facedown, with silicone or hot glue to even out the depth and provide a larger area for securing the mirror. Apply hot glue or silicone to the underside of an appropriatesize mirror or mirrored candle plate and press into place. Add a weighted item to the center until set. Create a hanger by attaching a loop of sturdy wire through the top back of the woven frame. Summer 2024 103
4 3 Cloche Basket Pendant Light Reassign a wicker cloche basket from protecting plants in the garden to illuminating an outdoor dining area. Fabiana of Ciao Newport Beach suspended hers from an olive tree in her backyard. To power the fixture, an extension cord runs discreetly from the light, down the tree trunk and to an outdoor outlet. Choose a cloche basket for your project and install a plug-in pendant light kit through the small opening at the top. Secure the kit’s cord from a branch or other overhead feature to hold the fixture in place. Spice Jar Mini Vase Turn an empty spice bottle into a charming bud vase for fresh-cut blooms. Create holes in the metal lid to accommodate flower stems using a drill or a metal punch. Hammer down any jagged edges. Use a sponge brush to apply matte metallic silver paint to the lid. When dry, dab small amounts of lighter gray paint over the silver. Apply painter’s tape around the bottle about 1" from the bottom and then paint the area below the tape as you did the lid. Remove the tape and allow the paint to dry. Embellish the neck of the bottle by wrapping with thin wire and attaching a metal dragonfly. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY FABIANA OF CIAONE WPORTBE ACH.BLOGSPOT.COM. DESIGNER HINT Before painting, be sure the bottle is completely free of labels and adhesive. Acetone works well to remove glue.
6 Rustic Crate Cooler Put summer party beverages on ice in a patriotic DIY cooler like this one from Camilla Fabbri of Family Chic. Lightly sand a large wood crate and then apply white chalky-finish paint to the exterior and interior. Once dry, lightly sand the painted finish for a distressed look. Paint a vintage cast-aluminum eagle wall mount and attach it to the front of the crate with screws. To hold a waterproof liner, secure an adhesive plastic trash bag cinch at each interior top corner of the crate. Fold or roll down the top of a 50-gallon clear plastic trash bag to fit the depth. Tuck the top edges into the cinches. Fill the crate with ice and beverages. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY CAMILL A FABBRI OF FAMILY-CHIC.COM. 5 Cloth-Wrapped Storage Boxes Start collecting cardboard shipping boxes now to make these crafty storage boxes from Kati Farrer at Crafting my Home. STEP 1 For each cardboard box, cut two pieces of canvas drop-cloth material that will cover the right and left sides, adding 2" to the width and height of both. Also cut one long piece that will cover the front, bottom and back of the box, adding 2" to the length and 1" to the width. Iron a crisp ½" seam on each side of the front/bottom/back piece. STEP 2 Apply a heavy coat of spray adhesive to the wrong side of one canvas side piece. Center it on the side of the box and fold over the extra 1" all around. Cut notches at the bottom to allow the corners to lay flat. Repeat to attach the other side. STEP 3 Apply spray adhesive to the wrong side of the front/ bottom/back piece. Line up the piece so there is a 1" overhang on the top and it is centered on the front of the box. Press into place and then rotate the box to attach the canvas to the bottom and then the back. Fold over the overhang inside the box. STEP 4 Secure any loose areas with hot glue. Cover the raw edge of the canvas inside the box with a glued-on ribbon. Add cotton rope handles and a custom iron-on label if desired. CLOSET HELPERS Kati applied script labels to help keep clothes organized in her bedroom closet. DESIGNED AND PHOTOGR APHED BY K ATI FARRER OF CR AF TINGMYHOME.COM. Summer 2024 105
ts en es r p Q U I LT | C R O C H E T | C R A F T S | N OTI O N S Honeybloom Layer Cake 42/pkg. 100% Cotton. 10" squares. 42/pkg. Honeybloom Designed by 3 Sisters for Moda. 281053 $47.99 Home Sweet USA Cross Stitch Pattern Create a piece of farmhouse-style decor with this stylish design, complete with a full alphabet for easy personalization. AX00646 $5.99 Good Old Days Table Runner Pattern Here’s a fun new twist to the traditional Log Cabin pattern. Use cheerful 1930s reproduction fabrics to make a joyful look for your table. YQ02250 Print $8.99 AQ02250 Download $6.99 Ombre Wall Hanging Crochet Pattern Stitch this modern farmhouse-style wall hanging using worsted-weight yarn and a size H/5mm crochet hook. RAC3232 $4.99 Farmhouse Chicken Trivet Crochet Pattern This crochet chicken trivet potholder makes the perfect farmhousestyle accent for the kitchen counter, dining room table, or part of a themed centerpiece. RAC3528 $5.00 ANNIE’S SIGNATURE DESIGNS Farmhouse Granny Afghan & Pillow Crochet Pattern A new take on the classic granny square afghan! Y886471 Print $8.00 A886471 Download $6.00 Sweet ‘N Sharp Macaron Sharpen your needles on this pretty pastel macaron! 1/pkg. 148079 $11.99
Hanging Garden Shelf Kit Monogram Barn Quilt Kit Patriotic Signs Kit Assemble classic all-American signs with a modern farmhouse twist! KFHS023 $19.99 Special $6.99 Annie’s Tiger Cat Meow Mug A cute tiger cat mug to use for your morning coffee mug or as a gift for a friend! 411610 $9.99 Make a farmhouse-fresh piece of decor, customized for your home! KCWC177 $19.99 Special $6.99 Build a rustic hanging shelf for your favorite succulents or herbs! KFHS021 $19.99 Special $6.99 Annie’s Wild About Crafting Reusable Tote Take your craft supplies with you wherever you go with this market tote! T20049 $6.99 Annie’s Zipper Pouches 2/Pkg. Handy bags for a handy crafter! T20042 $7.99 Scan code to purchase any of these products at Annie’s Craft Store. Bee’s Wax Polish Made with natural beeswax, this spray keeps wood from drying out and is used to clean, protect, preserve and restore furniture. 6531 $12.99 A N N I E S C R A F T S TO R E .CO M Summer 2024 107
Blue Ribbon Whether you’re headed to the fair, a potluck or your dining room, these dishes will earn you plenty of praise and maybe even a prize. S’MORES CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES Makes 24 cookies Reminiscent of a favorite campfire treat, these soft and chewy cookies earned Heather Alemu of My Sweet Precision first prize in a baking competition. INGREDIENTS For Dough 2¼ cups all-purpose flour For Topping ½ cup chocolate chips 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup miniature marshmallows 1 cup butter, softened 2 sheets graham crackers, broken into pieces ¾ cup brown sugar, packed ¼ cup granulated sugar 1 box vanilla instant pudding mix (3.4 ounces) 2 eggs, room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups chocolate chips INSTRUCTIONS 1. Sift together flour and baking soda in a medium bowl and then set aside. 2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat in instant pudding mix until blended. Stir in eggs and vanilla. Blend in the flour mixture. Finally, stir in chocolate chips. 108 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style 3. Cover the dough and chill for 2 to 3 hours or overnight. Before baking, remove dough from the refrigerator and allow to warm at room temperature for 20 minutes. 4. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. 5. Roll 1½ tablespoons of dough into balls and place on baking sheets. Bake for 10 minutes and remove. Press some marshmallows, chocolate chips and graham cracker pieces into each cookie and return to the oven for 2 minutes. 6. Remove cookies from the oven and immediately use a kitchen torch to brown the marshmallows and graham crackers. 7. Allow cookies to cool on the sheets for 10 minutes and then remove to a wire rack to cool completely. PHOTOGR APH AND RECIPE BY HE ATHER ALEMU OF MYSWEE TPRECISION.COM.
EASY AND FAST CINNAMON TWIST LOAF Serves 12 You’ll score big points if you make this delicious treat from Emily Barlow at Handmade Farmhouse. The glaze melts onto the twist beautifully and creates a sweet topping to complement the filling. INGREDIENTS For Dough 1½ cups warm water 1 tablespoon dry active yeast 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 3½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt For Filling 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted 2 teaspoons cinnamon ⅓ cup packed brown sugar For Glaze 1 cup powdered sugar 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream INSTRUCTIONS 1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water with yeast and sugar. Stir together and allow to proof for about 5 minutes or until foamy. 2. Add flour and salt to yeast mixture. Mix on medium speed until well combined. Dough should be smooth and elastic. Turn dough onto a floured counter. Allow to rise covered with a tea towel for about 10 minutes. 3. Sprinkle flour on top if the dough is sticky. Roll dough into a 10" x 12" rectangle. Brush with melted butter. Sprinkle and spread cinnamon and brown sugar to cover the dough. 4. Roll dough lengthwise as if you were preparing cinnamon rolls. Place roll on a baking sheet lined with parchment for easy cleanup. 5. With a sharp knife, make a long slice down the center of the roll, leaving about ½" uncut at one end. With the cut side up, twist the dough ropes together and then tuck the ends under. 6. Cover with a tea towel and allow to rise for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F. 7. Bake for 23 to 25 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow twist to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before adding buttery glaze. 8. Mix glaze ingredients together and pour over the slightly cooled twist. The tighter you roll your dough, the more layers your twist will have once cut. PHOTOGR APH AND RECIPE BY EMILY BARLOW OF HANDMADEFARMHOUSE.COM. Summer 2024 109
DOUBLE CHOCOLATE PECAN PIE Serves 6–8 This decadent pie from Fabiana of Ciao Newport Beach always gets top marks! It requires no corn syrup and uses chocolate chips twice—melted and whole—for rich, chocolatey flavor. INGREDIENTS 1 pie crust (9"), unbaked 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, divided 2 eggs ⅛ teaspoon salt ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar 1 cup chopped pecans 12 pecan halves INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 2. Par-bake pie crust for 8 minutes. 3. Melt 1 cup chocolate chips over double boiler filled with hot water (not boiling) on bottom. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, about 5 minutes. 4. In a small bowl, combine eggs and salt. Beat until very thick and lemon colored, about 5 minutes. Gradually beat in brown sugar, a little at a time. Slowly blend in cooled melted chocolate. 5. Stir in chopped pecans and the remaining 1 cup chocolate chips. Pour into par-baked pie crust. Decorate the top with pecan halves. 6. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes. 7. Serve hot or cold, with whipped cream or ice cream. PHOTOGR APH AND RECIPE BY FABIANA OF CIAONE WPORTBE ACH. BLOGSPOT.COM. 110 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
PRIZE-WINNING RHUBARB CRUMBLE Serves 8 With its mix of fresh berries, tangy rhubarb and crisp topping, it’s no wonder a version of this dessert once won a $5,000 prize. Amanda Davis of Amanda’s Cookin’ got the original recipe from Pat Harmon, a “recipe contester” who is a member of the recipe Facebook group connected with Amanda’s blog. INGREDIENTS For Filling 2 cups rhubarb, cut into 1" pieces For Topping 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup fresh blueberries 1½ cups granulated sugar 2 tablespoons cornstarch ½ cup granulated sugar ⅓ cup sliced almonds 1 large egg 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9" x 13" baking pan with butter or cooking spray. 2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, strawberries and blueberries. 3. Add sugar, cornstarch and balsamic vinegar. Toss and stir until fruit is well coated. 4. Place sugared fruit mixture into prepared pan and set aside. 5. Mix together flour, sugar, salt and sliced almonds. Stir in egg until crumbly. Toss with your fingers to make sure the topping mixture is completely combined. 6. Crumble topping over the sugared fruit in the pan. Drizzle with melted butter. 7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until topping is golden brown and fruit mixture is bubbly. 8. Let cool until slightly warm. Serve topped with vanilla ice cream. PHOTOGR APH AND RECIPE BY AMANDA DAVIS OF AMANDASCOOKIN.COM. Taste of the County Fair Want a blue ribbon of your own? Enter your best recipe in the county fair! Since the early 1800s, local agricultural fairs have been a venue for people of all ages to come together to socialize, share information, and engage in friendly competition. There is usually a division for adults as well as one for children. Follow the tips below to join in the fun! Start at your county fair board. Most will have a physical office or a website. Look for a “fair book,” published annually to provide current entry rules, categories, instructions, awards and more. Pick an entry category. Using the fair book as a guide, choose your best recipe that fits one of the categories to be judged. Food competitions are often grouped into departments such as Bakery Goods, Main Dishes, and Preserved Foods. Those are broken down further as needed; for example: Bakery Goods-Cakes-Layer Cakes-Carrot Cake. Review the fine print. The book will give instructions for how your entry must be prepared and when, where and how it must be presented. Follow the rules exactly. Also review any explanation of judging; for example, Bakery Goods might be judged on shape, size, flavor, texture and lightness. Prepare your entry and cross your fingers. Test your recipe multiple times so it will come out perfect for fair day. Once it’s safely delivered, browse the other entries and talk to the other exhibitors. Even if your entry doesn’t win, you’re sure to pick up helpful tips and make some new foodie friends. Summer 2024 111
SHOWSTOPPING CARROT CAKE Serves 15–18 Karri Perry from Blue Ribbon Favorites says this recipe is a two-time Best of Show fair winner! It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert because the flavor and texture are even better the next day. INGREDIENTS For Cake 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 tiny pinch ground cloves ½ teaspoon salt 3 large eggs, room temperature For Frosting 2 sticks (16 tablespoons) butter, softened 16 ounces cream cheese, softened 2 pinches salt 4 teaspoons vanilla extract 6 cups powdered sugar 1 cup chopped toasted walnuts 2 cups granulated sugar ¾ cup vegetable oil ¾ cup buttermilk, room temperature 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 cups finely grated carrot 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained very well ½ cup flaked sweetened coconut 1 cup chopped toasted walnuts (optional) INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line three 9" round cake pans with parchment paper and lightly grease/spray. Set aside. 2. Stir together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and salt. Set aside. 7. Let cakes rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes and then remove from pans and discard parchment paper. Let cool to room temperature. 3. In a large bowl with an electric mixer, combine eggs, sugar, oil, buttermilk and vanilla, mixing until combined and smooth with no oily puddles. 8. To prepare frosting, whip softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add salt and vanilla. Slowly mix in powdered sugar until you reach a spreadable consistency. If frosting is too thick, add 1 teaspoon milk or cream at a time until desired consistency is reached. 4. Slowly add the flour mixture, stopping to scrape down the bowl. Mix cake batter just until flour mixture is incorporated. 9. Spread frosting between the cake layers and a light crumb coat on the sides and top. 5. Fold in grated carrot, crushed pineapple, flaked coconut and chopped walnuts. 10. Chill cake in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes and then apply a final layer of frosting. Add walnuts to the sides for garnish. 6. Pour batter into prepared cake pans. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 11. Refrigerate overnight, up to 24 hours, and then serve. PHOTOGR APH AND RECIPE BY K ARRI PERRY OF BLUERIBBONKITCHEN.BLOGSPOT.COM. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to whole or 2% milk for a quick substitute. 112 Country Sampler Farmhouse Style
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