Happy Hour : Painted Baskets

Every been in a restaurant when it turns "Happy Hour?" You notice the mood instantly changes as everyone is ready for fun. Whenever I'm having a Bad Hair Day, my cure is always a personal Happy Hour. Of course, I'm hopeless addicted to interiors; so for me, this hour is all about decorating. In this series, we'll look at some quick and happy mood changers for our very own Happy Hour. Each should take about an hour - a mere 60 minutes - to perk up our minds and our rooms. Let's get the party started.

Do these silvery baskets photographed by Martha Stewart take your breath away? This shape seems to be in every store this spring but it's never looked this glorious. Here's my Happy Hour suggestion - why not buy a can of metallic paint and work your magic? I'm headed to the basement to see what baskets I've got around. In the meantime, let's check out some basket painting inspiration.

thedecoratedhouse.com

Donna Courtney uses Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in French Linen to age a storage basket.

pier1imports.com

Any basket could be "limed" with a thin coat of paint.

betterlifebags.blogspot.com

Great colors elevate a thrift store collection of baskets.

mdhposhinteriorsanddesign.com

Perfect warm weather colors on an IKEA basket.

confessionsofaserialdyier.com

Picnic baskets all dolled up for a summer cottage.

landofnod.com

Land of Nod's ombre basket - great inspiration.

dyicandy.com

Fun color and pattern.

flowers.org.uk

Line Dollar Store baskets with garbage bags to prevent water damage.

llk.c.com

Use leftover paint for a coordinated look in your rooms. Whoa, my head is spinning with ideas. If you get inspired, email me (kathleen@decorbook.com) your painted basket photo for me to post next week. Here's to a colorful Happy Hour!

top photo : MarthaStewart.com