
I've been impressed by the quality and style of the Linden Street line of home goods from JCPenney (as has green guru
Danny Seo). Now, their entire line is on sale, and there are some great items I wouldn't mind adding to my casa. One piece that immediately caught my eye was the
Linden Street Rustic Bird Table Lamp (originally $100, now $49.99).

Ok, so I thought I was ready to admit that birds were for the, well,
birds. But darn it, this new
Vintage Bird Duvet Cover and Shams ($19 to $159) has me singing a different tune. I love the simple black line drawing-like print of the birds and trees on the creamy 230-thread count combed cotton fabric.

If you've never sewn before, this is a great project to start you on your way. No machine is needed, as everything is hand sewn. Hand sewing is a great skill, as you can use it to complete simple repairs on clothing, from patching jeans to sewing on buttons to hemming skirts.