Beach-Mat Lined Bookcase

Yesterday I showed part 1 of the Summer Living Room Makeover.  I love the built in bookcase feature on that wall.

Here it is at the “blank slate” start of the project.  You know…the part where you get to put the room back together again after you’ve taken it all apart to paint!

I knew I wanted to add some texture and pizzazz to the back of that bookcase.  Because I wanted a summery, “beach-like” feel, I headed to the Dollar Store for some beach mats.  {They were only $1.25!}  I wasn’t sure how I was going to attach it at first, so I picked up three.  Really, I only needed one…but I ruined the first one (oops!), so it was nice to have back-up!

I first removed the back of the bookcase.  It’s in the closet in the adjoining room, so it’s really easy to do.

I then held up the beach mat to the bookcase, and cut it so that it was  about 3 inches too long on one side.  (*I learned this the hard way.  I at first cut it exactly to size.  Please note!!~  As soon as you cut the threads holding the reeds together, they fall apart!!!)

Using your staple gun, staple up the bottom half first, then the top half.

I rolled the cut edge {before the reeds start falling off!} and stapled it to the side.  Thankfully, the staples hold it all together.

Once it was all stapled and secure, I put the back back on.  Easy Peasy!

Now I’ve been fiddling with the arrangement of accessories.  I really like how white & black show up against the textured backdrop.  However, I’m finding the balance between enough things and too much is tricky!…

Linking to:  Miss Mustard Seed, My Romantic Home, Freckled Laundry, Chic on a Shoestring, My Repurposed Life, Common Ground, Remodelaholic, Lovely Crafty Home, Funky Junk, Whisperwood Cottage, I heart Naptime, DIY Showoff, At Home with K