- Some Americana folk art focuses on handmade wooden pieces and antiques or family heirlooms. This approach to decorating costs more, but results in a unique look. Other people prefer a more affordable approach, such as painting a country kitchen a cheerful yellow, adding gingham curtains and adorning the walls with wrought iron cutouts of roosters and other barnyard animals. Creative decorators integrate their do-it-yourself projects, such as patchwork quilts or cloth dolls.
- The core features of an Americana country theme involve natural materials. Weathered gray wood is a favorite for yard art, wall signs, a porch rocker or a door that has been repurposed as a headboard or the top of a coffee table. Light cotton, poplin or muslin may adorn windows, cover round wooden tables, decorate throw pillows or top an antique hope chest. Distressed, oxidized, rusted and painted metals often show up on furniture hardware, storage containers, curtain rods, wall art, bathroom fixtures and architectural elements. Try battered wrought iron scrolls as supports for a wooden shelf display of folk art collectibles.
- An Americana country decor integrating folk art celebrates home and country. Outdoor art and traditional crafts such as wooden yard sculptures, hardware assemblages, handmade dolls and garden wall mosaics add visual pop and creativity to the home. Fill a rusty pail with miniature flags for a patriotic tableau, or hang a painted map of the United States that you fill with collectible spoons from each state.
- An Americana country look extends beyond the basics of red, white and blue. Earth tones provide a pleasing neutral backdrop to folk art decor. A country bathroom looks inviting in antique cream accented with nautical dark blue. Move quilts from beds or racks to the walls for an eye-catching patchwork of colors and patterns that adds dimension to the room. Unfinished wood on architectural elements and floors adds rustic charm.
- Some rustic pieces can pose danger in homes where young children live and play. Unfinished wood may create a splintery surface. Folk art and antiques often feature old, chipped paint or small accessories that can have chemicals, lead or choking hazards. Keep one-of-a-kind artworks on high shelves or atop cabinets if children are present in your home.
