The winter Pinterest Challenge is back — a seasonal tradition dreamed up by Katie Bower to nudge us all from pinning to doing. It’s not sponsored by Pinterest or anyone else; it’s simply a friendly prompt to take one pinned idea and turn it into a real project. So grab a warm drink, pull on something comfy, and let’s make something this season.
The only rule is simple: put your own spin on something you’ve pinned and credit the original source that inspired you, whether that’s a shop like Anthropologie or a personal blog. The project can be big or small, practical or purely decorative—sewing, crafting, cooking, woodworking—anything goes as long as it was inspired by something you found online.
Over the past challenges we’ve tackled a variety of projects. John and I started with a clothespin light for the laundry room, then moved on to homemade ornaments, a beanbag pouf for Clara, some DIY art, and a giant leaning chalkboard for the living room. This time, while we were grocery shopping and brainstorming at the same time (multitasking at its finest), we decided on a larger project that will change the look of an entire area of our house. It’s a project that’s been pinned a million times — there are dozens of tutorials on Pinterest we plan to reference — so here’s a little clue: The Wayans Brothers + Scott Baio = our project.
Answer: Wainscoting.
More specifically, we’re planning a board-and-batten style installation down both sides of our long hallway — the corridor that leads to the guest room, hall bath, nursery, and playroom — to add architectural interest and break up that “bowling alley” feeling of a long, bare hall.
We’ve already purchased the materials and are excited to get started. We’ll aim to complete it within a week and give it our best college-try effort. If all goes well, the added texture and trim will make the hallway feel more finished and welcoming.
We’re also inviting a few friends to guest host this round. Joining Katie and me are:
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Megan from The Remodeled Life, who created a great kitchen chalkboard in the last challenge.
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Michelle from Decor & The Dog, who made a fantastic map pillow last time around.
Consider this your friendly invitation to join the winter Pinterest Challenge. Take something you’ve pinned, add your own interpretation, and make it happen. We’re giving everyone the weekend to work on their projects and will gather to share results next Wednesday morning (the 27th). On that day we’ll link up and showcase the projects everyone completed.
Whether you plan to tackle food, a craft, sewing, painting, furniture, or even a short video of toddler antics, we’d love to see your take. This challenge is all about turning inspiration into action and enjoying the creative process along the way.
P.S. Just to be clear: although we mention Pinterest often, this project series isn’t paid for or sponsored by Pinterest or any other company. It’s a grassroots effort by folks who are tired of collecting inspiration and ready to create.