Forgive us for saying so, but that abode of yours is looking a bit drab. You've got that hand-me-down sofa from goodness-knows-what time period. You have some mismatched thrift-store dishes, and those rugs — let's just say we're surprised that they haven't retired themselves. It's time you made an HGTV transformation happen, but without all of those cameras and the public humiliation that comes with the entire nation poking fun at you — you just need to fix 'er up DIY-style. For a bit of guidance, head to Plowsharing Crafts (6271 Delmar Boulevard, University City;
www.plowsharing.org). From Wednesday to Saturday (March 17 through 20), the fair-trade shop hosts the annual
Oriental Rug Event, during which many painstakingly hand-knotted rugs made by artisans in Pakistan are for sale. In addition to the positive purchasing power you gain by shopping this event, both for the fairly paid rug makers and for that place you call home, you can also learn a little something during the Introduction to Oriental Rugs seminar, happening at the shop at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 18. This educational session is free, but reservations are recommended; call Plowsharing at 314-863-3723 to save your spot.
March 17-20, 2010