Design Sponge is a wildly popular design blog that was created in 2004 by Brooklyn based Grace Bonney. Fans of the site will be glad to know that she has finally published a book showcasing some of the best homes and tips seen in her blog over the past 7 years.

The book’s contents are divided up into 3 categories. The first section is made up of what Grace calls “Sneak Peaks” into the homes of regular people who didn’t use a decorator and are able to express themselves through their objects, furniture and spaces.

The middle section of the book is made up of close to 50 DIY projects and includes a “How To” section on the basics of using a sewing machine, tools, paint, etc. My favorites are the fabric covered hangers on page 244 and the butterfly dome on page 270.

 The third section of the book shows us some fun “Before and After” projects that involve paint, fabric, stencils and found objects (including 2 uses for wooden skids!).

This book has good value in it’s close to 400 pages for $52. It provides great inspiration for younger people who are on a tight budget and are willing to do a bit of manual labour. So roll up your sleeves and get to work!!

Visit the Design Sponge Blog – www.designsponge.com