A New Reading Corner

Ever since I saw this tutorial on Penny Carnival I have been itching to make a book sling. It just so happened that a twist of fate made it necessary! We used to have a dark wooden bookshelf under the window in the living room, and let's just say cheapo Ikea bookshelves don't exactly hold up to my rowdy crew!

I decided a reading corner was the perfect solution! Now instead of a bookshelf we have a pretty book sling and a floor pillow. The best part? Instead of sifting through 50 books to find what they want to read, they have their favorites right there in plain view.
As you can see it's sagging a bit, and that's because I thought I would be smart and use metal tension rods instead of wooden dowels (so I didn't have to saw anything). It turns out they are pretty bendy. Looks like I'll be making another trip to Lowes!

I thought some fun pillows would make a perfect addition to the couch.And to add a little of a coastal feel I put some hydrangeas and a candle in my husband's old lantern. Part one of the living room makeover, complete! And all because of a cheap bookshelf falling apart.