Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic: Shabby Chic Treasures

Designer Rachel Ashwell hosts this two-episode program—from her Style Network-aired series Shabby Chic—that will inspire viewers who enjoy thrift store finds, interior decorating, furniture restoration, or all of the above. In “Flea Market Antiques,” Ashwell pores over “pieces with a past,” offering tips on assessing vendors' knowledge of their wares and keeping a lookout for disguised details of botched refurbishment. “Affordable Elegance” finds Ashwell walking through a friend's house, pointing out stylish-looking salvage gear (including a chalkboard in the hallway, and a lampshade that cost a dollar). The poor man's-Martha Stewart ideas and suggestions presented here are sure to appeal to budget-minded folk looking to spruce up their homes. Recommended. [Note: also newly available in the Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic series is Flowers, Petals & Gardens.] Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)