When the opportunity arose to review Dena’s new book, The Painted Home, I jumped at the chance. I’m going to be posting about Dena’s two new fabric collections in the next couple of weeks. Reviewing her book couldn’t happen at a more fortuitous time. Between the small fabric stacks of Tangier Ikat and the Christmas collection, Love and Joy, and this new book, I’ve been in color heaven.

If you’re not familiar with Dena’s work, I encourage you to change that right now. She’s a creative powerhouse with licensed designs on a host of products. Her fabric designs for Free Spirit are just one small component of her business. Check out her website here.

But back to the book. Dena’s assistant kindly sent me a copy and when it arrived, I sat down and read through it immediately. Two words describe the feeling of the images, as well as the text: exuberant joy. It is clear she follows her own advice of surrounding yourself with what you love. Her home is filled with treasures–both found and made. As you flip through the pages, you’re taken on a journey through Dena’s home, a place where creativity is given free reign.

The book includes project ideas and instructions. Mod Podge features in several–something that delights me to no end. Other projects require paint. There’s a good mix of things to jump start your own painted home. I made a small paperweight from the book using Dena’s Love and Joy fabric.

I used a small glass votive holder because finding a small glass bowl was proving to be too time consuming. I also added the yo yo and button embellishments to the top because I couldn’t resist. And also because I am less likely to knock it over with that bit on top. If I had any vintage jewelry or other nostalgic bits, they would sit under glass perfectly. Perhaps I can keep an eye out for some. (If there’s a downside to the book, it’s that it makes you want to rush out to antique stores and flea markets, gathering treasure everywhere you go.)Do you feel like you need a bit of encouragement to turn yourself loose in your own home? Are you restrained in adding personal touches because you think it might take things too far? Have you ever wished you had the courage to put your stamp on your home? If so, Dena’s gentle push is just what you need. She isn’t trying to sell you on her style. She’s providing the thoughts and ideas for you to create and execute your own.

You can find The Painted Home on Amazon and other online retailers. Or check your local bookstore for a copy. Grab one and get ready to be inspired.