Personally Andrea: Pottery Barn Inspired Rope Hurricane

There’s always a place for some coastal or beach-y decor during the summer, don’t you think? Either at home or cottage or cabin, or for your summer special events. These are inspired by a Pottery Barn hurricane, but you can make them for a fraction of the cost. Come and see how.

* pin me *

Most of the materials come from the dollar store or hardware store, and you can put them together to look super-upscale.

I used glass hurricanes from the dollar store, sisal twisted rope from the hardware store and a glue gun. To be honest I’m not a big fan of glue guns. I burn myself every time and the stringy stuff is a mess to clean up afterwards. I tried a few other ways to attach the rope, though, and nothing else worked, so glue gunning it is. If the stringy glue stuff drives you crazy too, here’s an awesome and easy tutorial from Craftaholics Anonymous on how to make them disappear. #stillburntmyfingers

* watch your fingers *

Start at the bottom of the hurricane and work your way around till the rope covers about a third of the vase. I glued it about every quarter turn, making sure to attach both ends securely. (I cut the rope to the desired length first, before gluing it, and it was easier to manage.)

I filled the bottom of two of the hurricanes with sand (which I buy at the garden center in bulk, about $2 for a ten pound bag). Having sand at the bottom of a hurricane makes it great for outdoor events or decor, since the sand weighs it down really well. Make sure not to fill it past the top of the rope detail. Also you should wipe down the inside of the glass after pouring the sand in because it will leave a layer of dust. #notpretty

* just beachy *

In one of the hurricanes I set a few shells. From the dollar store. If you’re lucky enough to live near the beach then here’s an excuse to collect some more shells. Beach glass or small pieces of driftwood would look great too! #beachenvy

* looking lovely in the bath *

In another I added a white pillar candle, or a tea light. (Make sure to get the pretty ones in a clear or glass holder, not the cheap aluminum ones.)

In a third hurricane I planted a small succulent. Instead of the sand, make a layer of small stones at the bottom of the vase for drainage, then set in the plant. Add a little extra potting soil if you need to. Again, try not to go past the top of the rope detail, and wipe down the inside of the glass when you’re done.

* this one’s my favourite *

I think these would be beautiful as wedding centerpieces. But also, imagine them on your mantel, on a coffee table or in a bookcase. Wouldn't they make a great gift, too?