Transportation RoomSmall Potatoes 2009This sleeping and play space for my toddler evolved over the course of 2 years. My original inspiration point was the Pottery Barn Kids Transportation bedding, and as you can see from the photos, most of the mural vehicles are loosely based on the shams. I love 'changing it up' with the bedding, and at this point have a collection of sheets and shams and covers from various sources including PBK, Land of Nod and Ralph Lauren. I used thrift stores (child's chair), flea market finds (stoplight lamp, vintage kids chair, bookshelf), garage sales (free whiteboard) and Ikea (Mammut play table) as my sources for furniture. Because kids' rooms change so rapidly, I think repurposed furniture is so much more practical than investment pieces. Etsy is another great source for original and affordable decor (vintage transportation knobs on bedside table). The dresser is a decoupage project of mine...a true labor of love. The walls are Banana Cream by Sherwin Williams. It creates a wonderful, creamy glow without being too school bus. Another trick for the thrifty at heart...if you have single drapery rods but want to add sheers for a layered look, consider using a sash rod mounted to the window frame ($3 at Walmart) before you splurge for a double rod. Remember, they grow SO FAST. As I'm submitting this write-up, I'm already dreaming up the next room, planned for Summer 2009. Ask yourself before you buy, "Will this work next year?" Flat sheets are wasted on a squirmy toddler. Stick to fitted sheets and seasonal blankets. Buy individual shams and mix your own style.


