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Round 1: Knock Off -Creating with the Stars 2014

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hey there! I'm monica 

I pride myself on making amazing style and design accessible for everyone, regardless of location, budget, or ability! My design philosophy is rooted in authenticity + attainability - If I can do it, you can too! My work has been featured in countless publications, but I take the most pride in homeowners that have been personally inspired by my DIY ideas and have tried something in their own homes!

learn more about ME + MY BIZ

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 Game on friends!!  It’s time for Round 1 of Creating with the Stars 2014 and oh, so appropriately the first round is a Knock Off.  If you’re new to our blog, you might not know that Jess and I are the hosts of ABC’s DIY show “Knock It Off” on The LiveWell Network.  Every episode we help homeowners makeover a room using mad DIY skills (and some crazy ideas) to Knock Off high end looks.  Our budgets are tiny, but the results are epic!  If you haven’t watched it before, you can watch full episodes HERE– warning, don’t blame us if you end up having a “Knock It Off” marathon and forget to feed your family and/or shower for days!

Here’s a little peek at our show:

A few reminders on how things work around here…
1- Projects are Anonymous:

Our bloggers have done their best to keep things legit and not reveal which project is theirs.  This keeps the playing field level.

2- One Vote Per Round:

You can only vote once, this isn’t a popularity thaang… we want to know which DIY project is the very best!

3- Winner Announced Wednesday:

Wednesday we will announce the winner of Round 1 and also say goodbye to 3 talented bloggers.  It’s kinda like a rose ceremony, but far less painful because we don’t have to deal with Juan Pablo!!

4- Full Tutorials

We’re hooking you up with more amazing DIY tutorials than you’ll know what to do with!  Tomorrow, Sarah Dorsey (last year’s CWTS Champ) will be sharing her knock off, and then each day following the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will share their complete tutorials for their winning projects!

We proudly present to you Creating with the Stars Round 1: Knock Off

1. Black Rooster X Bench Knockoff

I saw knock-off week and it had my name written all over it. I’ve been eyeing the x-bench stool available from online décor shop Black Rooster for a while, but at $720 it’s a far cry from my budget and the perfect piece to knock-off! Style meets practicality with this piece and I decided it made sense to knock off something that I actually need in my home, which lead me to this little beauty.

IMAGE ONE KNOCK OFF

 If you’re in need of extra seating in your living area but are limited by space the x-bench stools are the answer. They can be stored under a console when they are not needed, looking pretty lovely as a feature and pulled out for those occasions when they are needed. I do love an item that is both functional and doubles as décor!

IMAGE 2 KNOCK OFF

 The most fabulous thing about this project? The fact that I transformed a high-end piece of furniture for a third of the price of the original without skimping on style or quality! I used wood, foam, charcoal linen fabric, nail heads as studded detail and voila, the knock-off delivers on grandeur and elegance in this DIY.

IMAGE 3 KNOCK OFF

2. Society Social Melrose Cocktail Table Knockoff

When I saw the Melrose Console table online I thought it was such a beautiful, high end look especially with the all that fretwork. Oh, the fretwork!
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 The original was made of welded metal and the price was a bit steep so this was a wonderful piece to mimic. Their price is $800. The cost of my knock-off was $85.
melrose console knock off final 2
Almost everything was made from standard 1″x4″ pine trim. With some creative cutting and piecing together, I came up with something that looks exactly like the original at a fraction of the cost.
melrose console knock off final 1
3. Anthro-inspired Lamp and Pillow + Rothko Art
I have been on the hunt for a floor lamp for my living room for some time now, but they all have seemed to come up short or were rather pricey.  I had pinned the Novara Floor Lamp a while ago on Pinterest and thought this would be the perfect opportunity to make something similar.  While I love the brass of the original, copper piping was the economical and readily available choice.  The shades are made from 2 funnels I found at a local farm store.

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Pillows are a wonderful and fairly inexpensive way to update a space if you make them yourself.  I loved the version from Anthropologie, but spent about half as much money to make my own.  This also allowed me to choose any colorway I wanted.  The black and white feels modern but the tassels keep it fun. It kind of reminds me of music notes on a staff.

CWTS-Round One-Knock Off-Mid Century-Anthropologie-Lamp-Rothko Art-Fringe Pillow-Details

I used some white butcher paper on a roll and craft paints to whip up the art.  Layering on different reds, pinks, white, and some coral gives a great pop to the space.

CWTS-Round One-Knock Off-Mid Century-Anthropologie-Lamp-Rothko Art-Fringe Pillow
4.  Worlds Away Anna Bar Cabinet Knockoff
Unique furniture can be expensive and it’s great to find ways to recreate high end looks on a budget. This is a knock off version of the Worlds Away Anna Bar Cabinet with materials you can get at any home improvement store.
CWTS - Knockoff Overall
I built this piece with white birch and oak for a tiny fraction of what it would cost for me to buy it. I got creative with the details and used the bamboo from old tiki torches to add the door detail. I made a  template and cut out the Greek key handles from leftover wood from this project.
CWTS - Knockoff Open
The interior got a unique look with animal print fabric and I added it to a panel insert so I can change it out in the future. I applied gold leaf to the wooden legs to give it a richer look. The cabinet got painted in a beautiful emerald green semi-gloss to give it a lacquered appearance.
CWTS - Knockoff Shelves
5.  Sliding Door Console Table
IMG_4364 copy
I built this sliding door console from scratch using Purebond birch plywood for the carcass and pine boards for the top, trim, doors and moulding, then painted and stained.   The barn door hardware is actually the interior wheel of an awning pulley combined with aluminum bars cut to size, I might have even surprised myself in creating this totally functional hardware from basic pieces.
IMG_4375 copy
  In total this diy knock off cost me $300 versus the $2900 retail price tag – ouch!
IMG_4367 copy 2
6.  Urban Outfitters Macrame Hanging Chair Knockoff
knockoff1
Time to get cozy with with your favorite book and snuggle up in this handmade macramé chair. The Urban Outfitters version will cost you a pretty penny but with only four different supplies, you can create your own by mastering three simple macramé knots. You can totally do this!
Close ups
Macramé designs are becoming one of hottest trends in Home Decor, so you definitely need to make your own hanging chair as soon as possible!
Marrakech Chair 2
7.  Nelson Platform Bench Knockoff
I love the midcentury modern aesthetic, so I chose to recreate the infamous Nelson Platform Bench by iconic furniture company Herman Miller. This is a classic midcentury modern piece that has been in production since 1946! I constructed the bench from 100% Canadian maple, with a total out of pocket cost of $136.52 (only had to purchase the lumber). Not a bad savings when compared to the original price of $899 plus shipping!
Img 1
Dado joints were created on a table saw with a dado blade and custom-made jig (picture below) to ensure even slat spacing. The base/legs were mitred to match the angles of the original trapezoidal base and were then (as the Herman Miller site says) “ebonized” using black stain. The bench top was left natural and the whole project was finished with a clear satin Varathane.
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I also made a DIY knock off of this tree stump side table, saving me an additional $234.57 plus shipping. The stump was from a tree that fell during a hurricane.
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8. Anthro-inspired Astra Chandelier
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When it comes to lighting or anything shiny, I can become quite smitten. But with a high price tag of $1928.00 this little Astra beauty had me singing the budget busting blues.
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I was determined to create the look for less and after two days worth of work, and the use of some unexpected items (like matchsticks and a globe) this golden gal now hangs gorgeously in the entryway. And with a final price tag of only $65 it didn’t crush the design budget which is my kind of savings!
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9.  Anthro-inspired Green Leather Armchair
Anthropologie is kinda the bomb. I have an unnatural obsession with browsing through their furniture. When I came across this particular chair, I fell in love! The green leather and the midcentury modern lines made my heart sing. I knew it was the perfect project to knock off.

Chairpic1

I took the chair from dumpster worthy, to living room ready with the help of a jigsaw, drill, and electric sander.  After that, it was ready to be upholstered. I matched the green leather with green vinyl, and found black and white chevron fabric for the cushions.
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With the price of fabric and foam coming out to $82, the total was $98! That total includes $2 for the chair, $12 for upholstery tacks, and a $2 board that was used on the arms! A far cry from the original, which rings in at nearly $1,500!
00ChairPic3
10.  Restoration Hardware Brickmaker’s Table Knockoff
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I’ve been wanting a more industrial-urban farmhouse-looking coffee table for awhile. So for #CWTS Knock Off Round, copying one of my favorites – the Restoration Hardware Brickmaker’s Table – was a pretty simple decision. BUT I put my own twist on it. Not by changing how it looks (because I ADORE that!), but the materials its made of.
RH BRICKMAKERS TABLE COLLAGE (1)
Since I was super strapped for time, welding the metal base just wasn’t going to happen, so I used wood 2×2’s and RustOleum’s new metallics paint to mimic the look of square metal tubing. The result surprised even me!
RH BRICKMAKERS TABLE COLLAGE 2
11. Marble Waterfall Island Inspired Desk, Crate and Barrel Inspired Tie Dye Curtains
Image 1
Knock-offs have long been one of my favorite things because it lets you get a designer look for less, but it also lets you put your own creative spin on it!  When I first saw Marble Waterfall Islands, I was so obsessed!  First of all, who wouldn’t love extra marble?  But I really love the look of the marble carrying all the way to the floor on both sides.  I had this inspiration image saved for a future kitchen renovation, but thought, why can’t I have it now?  I decided to create a similar feel with a new desk for my office.  I built the frame out of wood and then I faux painted marble onto it.  It definitely gives me that marble waterfall island feel that I so loved.
image 2
With my brand new desk in my office, it felt so bland and needed some cheery curtains!  Tie Dye has become so trendy and I really love the fresh, modern takes that you’re seeing now.  It isn’t your mama’s 1970’s stuff!  I found the Crate and Barrel Tie Dye Shower Curtain and immediately loved the idea of tie dye curtains!  I love the organic, not predictable pattern.  I was picturing a larger-scale geometric pattern in blue and white.  After some googling, I discovered the Itajime Shibori method, which is also known as fold and clamp.  I took some old, plain white IKEA curtains and went to work!  An hour later, my white curtains had a serious upgrade!
image 3
These two DIY knock-offs make such a bold statement and really brighten up my blah office!
12. Restoration Hardware Timber Slat Coffee Table
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When I saw this gorgeous modern slat coffee table at Restoration Hardware, I knew I could make it myself.  Even though it’s on sale for $1270. What a deal! Hehe.
Restoration Hardware Knock Off-001
I made mine for under $80, and was able to customize the size to fit my space.
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Amazing Right?? Now it’s time to VOTE!
A big thanks to Survey Monkey for sponsoring the voting for CWTS! They’re a great company for bloggers to work with!
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Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey , the world’s leading questionnaire tool.

Let’s review what they’re playing for in Round 1, shall we?

$150 Royal Design Studios Gift Card

$150 of Worthwhile Wear Product

Blog Refresh from Sweet Theory Design ($100 value)

Week 1 Prizes

We have the best sponsors for CWTS and the prize packages just get bigger and bigger each round!

CWTS LOGO 2014 Sponsors Final

As you’re reading this post, I’m actually sitting on the beach at The Occidental Grand Nuevo Vallarta on an All-Inclusive vacation from Apple Vacations®.  Follow along on IG @EastCoastCreative to see how amazing this trip is, and to have a daily reminder that YOU can enter to win your own Dream Vacation!  Trust me- it’s amazing!

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The comments +

  1. These are absolutely stunning! Seriously ALL OF THEM are so amazing. Great job!

  2. […] Secondly…the competition has officially begun and you can go vote!  Every contestant sent in their first anonymous ‘knock-off’ project and we all get to choose what is our favorite project.  There are some mean prizes at stake y’all…and I know that all the contestants worked really REALLY hard to do their best.  I would love for Bower Power readers to unload on EC2 and show them that you guys are a force to be reckoned with.  Go!  Vote!    And wish Shannon the best of luck! […]

  3. Oh my word. I’m speechless. These are all amazing. Over the top, boundless creativity. Way to go, all of you contestants!

  4. What a talented bunch of bloggers! It was hard choosing just one project! Great work! xo

  5. They are all of a high standard.Some not just there.I like the Rooster tables.Classic, smart and functional.This lady has a certain flair.a great Knock off.

  6. Candice Webster says:

    Fantastic work done by all but I think that Rooster tables are my favourite.

  7. Oh my goodness how in the world are we supposed to choose?!!! Crazy talent up there!!! ^^^^^^^^

  8. […] Oh wait, I am NOT done!  Round 1 for Creating with the Stars is live and team #ClassyRevivals is in it to win it!  So head on over and vote for your favorite project.  Voting is anonymous so I cant tell you which one is Mallory and Savannah’s, but I can tell you that I am so beyond obsessed with it I almost dont even know myself.  When I saw their final pictures I almost started to cry.  It is just so good!!  So go and vote for your fave! […]

  9. Summer says:

    Amazing round 1! I can’t imagine what the next three rounds hold!

  10. […] for those of you following the Creating with the Stars contest, hop on over to see all the amazing knock offs in Round One! My partner is Tracy from Right Up My Alley, I’m not allowed to say which project is hers but she […]

  11. Shannon says:

    These are ALL amazing!!

  12. Breanna says:

    Wow! These entries are amazing! All so impressive, I don’t know how I’m going to decided who to vote for!

  13. SO exciting to see everyone’s projects!!! So much fun to be a contestant!
    xo,
    S.

  14. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor! The talent up there is amazing!!!! So hard to pick just one. Great job everyone!!!!!

  15. Alex says:

    Vote for only one??? HOW?? These are unbelievable!

  16. THESE. ARE. UNBELIEVABLE!

    I NEED this contest to be over so I can get the full tutorials on ALL of these knock offs! Well done everyone!

    Christine

  17. Mindy says:

    It’s impossible to vote for one- they are all SO good. Honestly. I voted for one that I thought took the most crafting ability. But really, these are all fantastic. I need to hire these people to make stuff for my home. Awesome.

  18. Seriously amazing knockoffs!! It was so hard to choose just one!!

  19. WOW. These are ALL incredible!! I’m so inspired by the talent!

  20. Jasmine says:

    OMG!!! These are great shots! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Green Bar Cart 🙂 The end product looks just like the Knock off! This is inspiring and I have got to make that Green Bar Cart for myself!!

  21. Jessica Hill says:

    Those are stunning projects. Seriously. Wish I could have voted for more than one!

  22. Dominque says:

    The last one is beautiful, and would go in any household. I cant believ how much money they saved…Well done

  23. Stephanie says:

    Fantastic projects! Some of these in particular are in a whole ‘nother league!
    Really wish the Brickmaker’s Table had less stuff in front of it so I could see the actual project itself.
    Jawdropping craftsmanship on the Nelson Platform Bench and lovely final presentation.
    Good luck to all!

  24. Teri Swanson says:

    Maybe I am confused but Survey Monkey is only showing 8 choices and I thought there were 12? The one I want to vote for is not showing up.

    • Monica says:

      Hi Teri,

      You should see a scroll button on the side of the survey to see the rest of the choices to number 12, please let us know if you are still having trouble seeing the rest. Thanks for checking out Creating with the Stars!

  25. […] PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE GO VOTE HERE!!!! […]

  26. Wow. Seriously impressed! It was hard to pick a favorite!

  27. Holy. Cow. I can’t even begin to process the amount of awesome projects that have been presented in the first round! I’m having such a hard time picking a favorite haha

  28. Cheryl says:

    All of these are amazing. However, the pieces of furniture are not possible to recreate. I certainly don’t own a dado blade. These projects are for people with advanced level of woodshop! When I watch your show, “Knock It Off,” I know that I could do any of the furniture that you make. I have build furniture in the past. Looking at these pieces of work are just as unrealistic to replicate as the prices for the original prices.

    • Cheryl says:

      I meat to say, ” Looking at these pieces of work are just as unrealistic to replicate as the prices for the original pieces.”

      • Steph P says:

        Cheryl, I see your point, but you’re assuming your own skill set is representative of the other readers. I’m sure there are readers who are more experienced (and less experienced!) than you are in many areas.
        And the logic you’re using can be applied to any of the non-furniture projects too: what about people who aren’t comfortable wiring electrical (me!)? That makes creating a light fixture just as unrealistic. Or those who have no upholstering or sewing experience? That would certainly rule out the remainder of the projects. Bottom line is, these are the best of the best showcasing their skills. Would you really expect anything less?
        I’m sure there are many people in the same boat as you, but I’m also sure that if even one person was inspired to learn a new skill or try to take their abilities to the next level, then the authors of the above posts would feel like they accomplished what they set out to do.

        • Stephanie says:

          I completely agree with Steph P. I would be far more comfortable making that bench with a dado blade than sewing a pillow! If DIYers limited themselves to creating things using only the skill sets and tools that every one of their readers possesses, those would be some pretty dull and uninspiring tutorials.

          • Kaitlyn says:

            I Totally agree with Cheryl. While the furniture is great (Love it all!!!) its just not feasible for most people. All the projects are great, but the ability to recreate something expensive, for a fraction of the cost is only part of the equation, for me at least. If I need a dado saw to copy something I love, I might as well just buy a piece of furniture that mimics the same look. I may not be comfortable doing wiring, but if the instructions are clear, at least I know it’s possible and doesnt need anything special.

            But All these projects turned out amazing! its so hard to pick just one!! I can’t wait to see the rest of the submissions, keep up the great work, yall!

  29. WOW! Blown away by the talent in this group. Seriously could see any of these projects winning.

  30. michelle says:

    No ways! Crazy talent here! Can’t decide on just 1! Was all the metalwork woodwork and upholstery done by the group themselves or were they allowed to use outside help? Love the show!

  31. Andrea says:

    Wow! All the projects are awesome. It’s hard to pick just one.

  32. These pictures are inspiring-I’m going to try my hand at a few!

  33. These are all amazing! What a crazy group of talented bloggers you’ve put together. Awesome! {I shared via Twitter}.

    Daniela
    http://iputabirdonit.blogspot.com

  34. […] projects for Round 1 of #CWTS2014. If you haven’t seen theprojects or cast your vote, do that right now! Go ahead, this post will wait. And if you’re new here, welcome! You can catch up on all the […]

  35. Ceci Bean says:

    WOAH! You picked some seriously talented DIYers for this!

  36. I shared on twitter (@hrl1983). Love this giveaway, and voted for my favorite 🙂 Thanks for keeping us all entertained!

  37. Donna says:

    All of these are done wonderfully! Love them all — and it’s really hard to choose a favorite to vote for, honestly. Excellent work, everyone! xoxo

  38. Oh wow, so many fabulous projects!!! Voted!

  39. Zoie white says:

    I vote for #6

  40. mary billman says:

    This is hard!!!

  41. […] to say that the Round 1 projects blew us away would be the understatement of the year.  Guys, I was seriously sitting in our hotel […]

  42. […] and changes to my house in the next few months. Lastly, PLEASE don’t forget to Vote for us at East Coast Creative Blog I can’t even wait to tell you guys which project is ours!!! And I really hope that you pick […]

  43. […] we’ve got another great tutorial for you today from Round 1 of CTWS- those gorgeous x benches made by the fabulous Jacqui of Brooke Eva. (If you missed the […]

  44. […] we jump into Week Two: Paint, let’s take a look back at Week One: Knock Off round for anyone who may have missed out and is new to Creating with the Stars! It was an amazing […]

  45. This is pretty much the best thing I have ever seen! Nothing better than finding/creating knock offs! 🙂

  46. […] Creating with the Stars 2014 hosted by East Coast Creative this contest ALWAYS amazes! […]

  47. […] I am sharing my tutorial for my Creating with the Stars Knockoff of the Worlds Away Anna Bar Cabinet. Are you ready for this MONSTER tutorial!?! I kid you not, this […]

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