Pat Stelzer

Pat Stelzer is a writer, former columnist, reporter, and retired high school history teacher and is currently an adjunct instructor at a community college. Pat has a long running interest in home decorating and her 175 year old home is a testament to her interest in rustic, primitive and folk art decorating technique and style. Her home also is decorated with a veritable collection of rustic Americana and folk art items.

...........................................................

WHAT DOES RUSTIC REALLY MEAN?

- by Pat Stelzer - Consultant, Writer & Retired Teacher

Decorating terminology can be daunting. Everyone has a preconceived definition of terms used to describe home décor. Early American, Colonial, Victorian, Primtive, Country, Contemporary, and the list goes on. Each one designates a very different style. Probably one of the most misunderstood words in home decorating is “RUSTIC”. Visions of log cabins, rough-hewn wood beams, rural farmhouses or lakeside cottages may jump to the fore. Those are rustic, but so are many other styles and decorator choices. Using rustic pieces adds warmth and individuality to every conceivable decorative style. A touch of humor or a reminder of the important things in life can give heart to any room, any home. Rustic can be used with contemporary, country, classic, and art deco. Chances are, RUSTIC DECORATING will add charm and uniqueness to any style. People are drawn to certain styles, and there is something rustic to fit them all. Have fun with it. Incorporate those rustic touches to put an individual signature on a home.

............................................................

Be sure to click on the "Our Community" tab at the top of our front page to read about some of the experiences Pat has had while remodeling, decorating and thoroughly enjoying her home through the years.

Since retiring as a full time high school teacher, Pat has kept herself very busy. She has not only contributed articles and ideas to our site but, she has published a small series of books that you can preview right here.

Preview or order Pat's NEW book, "Dangerous Research, By George!" by clicking on the book cover below.

. . . or "Click" on one of the titles below to read Pat's articles . . .