Trip to Thailand yields amazing fabric for clothing projects

At the time of this interview, professional sewer Yana Dee of Traverse City was in the midst of filling a custom order from one of her Internet sales, despite feeling a bit anxious.

Day-boat scallops add tasty twist to caprese salad

Whenever I spy the word 'caprese,' whether on a menu or in a cookbook, I snap to attention. 'Caprese,' which means 'in the style of Capri,' is best known for caprese salad and includes three of my favorites – basil, tomatoes and fresh mozzarella.

College speakers offer advice that changes lives

'Tis the season for commencement speeches. Ever since Anna Quindlen's 'Get a Life' address written for Villanova University and Steve Jobs' amazing wisdom to the graduates at Stanford, the bar has been set high for sage advice imparted to graduates.

A handy idea for personalizing the walls

A focal point doesn't have to be an obvious option, such as a fireplace. As Lanie and John Tobin demonstrate, it can be something a little more original.

Prep for party season by cleaning up the outside

Memorial Day is the traditional start to the outdoor entertaining season, but your home's exterior is probably in need of some serious cleaning before you have your first barbecue party of the year.

Right start makes sure new conifers stay ever green

Steven Courtney, manager of Michigan State University's Hidden Lake Gardens in Tipton, is my new go-to guy when I have questions about conifers.

Particulars of mystery print's creator elusive

Leslie Littell's husband is of German heritage, and his grandparents were married in that country in 1929. Approximately a decade later, the couple immigrated to the United States. '

Welcome mat: The latest and greatest for your home

See glasswork and more at Fine Art at the Village of Rochester Hills, attend Flower Day, hear music in the Boston-Edison district, tour homes and more.

How to take care of oak trees

Oaks live so long and have such appeal in the landscape that planting one becomes a good investment — one that will outlive the house itself if a few guidelines are followed.

Garden calendar

Pick up plants all over town, learn about heirloom tomatoes and herbs, get your soil tested and more.

Made in Michigan: Hand-crafted furniture

Several local furniture designers are creating their own pieces and lines with a distinct point of view. And while many of the area’s largest furniture retailers assemble their products overseas, local designers are doing it right here in Michigan.

Some divine inspiration becomes flag project

Fiber artist Shirley Bentsen, known for her incredible work as a crazy quilter, was inspired about a year ago to make her first prayer flag one day after ordering a cup of coffee.

Enjoy Sicilian salad as a side dish or a supper

Now that spring really and truly is here, my appetite has shifted gears from heavy meals to light suppers.

Roses back thanks to new, hardier varieties

There was a time when roses were the most popular flowers in the garden. But over the years they fell from favor, having gained a reputation for high ...

New paint technology makes exterior projects easier

Real estate agents will always tell you that curb appeal is important when selling a home, but it is also important for pride of ownership even if you aren't ...

A bit of cutting news on Civil War sword

The letter was intriguing. "I am curious about this Civil War sword that we have. My husband's family bought it on a trip to Gettysburg in the 1960s," wrote ...

'Love It or List It's' Hilary Farr shares decorating tips

Hilary Farr shares pointers with Homestyle that can come in handy whether you plan to stay or sell.

Newtown mom opens heart, finds her strength

Alissa Parker knows full well the irony of Mother's Day landing on what would have been her daughter Emilie's seventh birthday. Emilie was one of the 20 ...

Welcome Mat: The latest and greatest for your home

Jonathan Adler expands to handwashes and lotions, plant sales abound, Art Birmingham comes to town and more.

Top 10 bedroom design styles

Choosing a specific design style for your bedroom can transform it into your favorite space. Learn about the most popular design styles to help you pick the ...

Garden Calendar

Find flowers for sale or exchange, learn about decks, find out which plants attract butterflies and more.

Metro Detroit designers create table settings to enchant and delight

Not even the stormy April showers could take the attention away from the luminous beauty of the designer tables at Pine Lake Country Club in West Bloomfield ...

Sip a ginger julep to watch the Run for the Roses

In honor of jockey Rosie Napravnik and her unique toughness, I’m going to shake up a unique ginger mint julep to watch her ride Mylute in the Kentucky Derby.

Getting up in arms over new plastic surgery fad

In the first week of May, just as temperatures allow for short sleeves and sleeveless tops, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons is reporting an uptick of ...

Sweaters get a new life as ponchos for children

One hundred percent wool sweaters with raglan sleeves found at resale shops make the perfect garment for recycling into felted sweater ponchos. Just ask Lisa ...

Backup generator takes the worry out of storms

The summer storm season is almost upon us, and power outages will soon become a part of life. But your family doesn't need to experience them with backup ...

Symbiotic relationships can help plants thrive

If you read gardening magazines, you may be familiar with the term "mycorrhizae" that describes a symbiotic relationship between certain fungi and plants. If ...

Johnny Cash loved artist Jimmy Abeita, but does that add value?

Can a celebrity collector drive up the value of a particular artwork? That was one of the questions Ann Houston had for expert David Ghomczek at a recent Trash ...