Knob Snob

If you want to change the look of your old kitchen cabinets or gussy-up that basic dresser or desk you picked up at Ikea, but aren't up to a major sanding/painting/staining project, this post is for you. It's amazing what a little knob-swap can do to fancify (yeah, I made that word up- so what?) your space. Try putting some pretty hand-painted ceramic ones in your kitchen for a sweet, country feel, or some cut glass ones on your dresser to make it feel like a glamorous old Hollywood vanity. You can also try new knobs on your bathroom cabinets or closet doors, or hang them on the wall to serve as hooks for towels or robes, or as tiebacks for curtains. Think of it as pretty jewelry for your furniture or apartment.

All you need is a little imagination, a little bit of cash (but not that much), a screwdriver and about ten minutes. Save the old knobs, and you'll be able to swap them back when you move and take the new goodies with you.

All of the knobs above are from Anthropologie ($5-12 each), and I think they have the most eclectic mix, but you can find great knobs and pulls at Restoration Hardware, Olde Good Things, Home Depot, Lowe's, or even EBay.

photo credit: Boston.com