… and on my back porch …
… and I toyed with numbering the stairs in my newly redecorated entryway* like these adventurous homeowners …
… but was worried it would look too busy.
I scoured multiple craft stores in search of a stencil, but couldn’t find a font I liked in the size I wanted. That may have turned out for the best because I’m not a “stenciler” and there was a good chance it would have turned out sloppy.
Then it dawned on me that vinyl house numbers could work. They’re made to withstand the outdoor elements, right? And if the harsh Chicago winter gets the best of one (or more) of them, they’re cheap and easy to replace. The package of 3” Hillman vinyl letters & numbers — I picked mine up at Menard’s — contained multiples of each letter/number for just under $5.00.
The best part: this project is quick and easy. All I did was find the center point of each step, peeled off the number, affixed lightly at first so I could re-adjust as needed, and then firmly pressed into place. Five dollars and fifteen minutes later: Voila!
They make me smile like a crazy terracotta pumpkin every time I come home.

*P.S. The thrilling post(s) about the redecorated entryway – and the multiple projects we took on – will be coming soon as part of a home tour series.



































Hi there! My name is Linda and I’m a Jersey-born-and-bred Midwestern transplant who lives in Chicago with my husband and two children. We've lived in our home since 1995 and over the years our style has changed and evolved. I wouldn't call my home a work-in-progress -- more like a rework-in-progress as I refresh and remodel things around here ... one room at a time.


























Love it:)
I’ve seen these around but never thought to get the sticky numbers. Good idea!
I love your porch.
That turned out GREAT!! Thanks for linking up to Sunday’s Best =)
I love the numbers all over your house! Great porch addition as well!
-caroline @ c.w.frosting
Adorable. Stop by and check out my anniversary giveaway.
I LOVE this! I would love if you would share this at the Crazy Cute link party happening at Between U & Me right now! I’ve got a totally awesome giveaway this week, too!
OOH! AND, I’m your newest follower!
http://www.betweenuandme.com/2011/11/crazy-cute-link-party-26-and-homestudio.html
Cute, clever and quick. Love it!
Such a sweet idea! Wonder if my husband would go for me doing that on our porch steps? Of course we only have four steps. =) Coming over from Met Monday and your newest follower!
Jeanine
Your steps look fantastic! Numbers add just a touch of whimsy, don’t they?
So cute! I love it!! I would be like you…hesitant to do it inside the home, but would have jumped at the opportunity to do it outside! You did a great job, they look lovely!
So pretty! Would love it if you would link this up at my turquoise lovin’ party! http://www.sweetlittlegals.com/2011/11/turquoise-lovin-12.html
I like all your “numbered” items. I love the outside stairs, and I will be doing this next year. I know he won’t let me inside. They really do look good. thanks so much for sharing at Sunday’s Best!
Gosh I didn’t’ know you are a Chicago girl, I live just outside Chicago. It’s great knowing someone is near!
What a fun way to brighten up a front porch. You had a great Halloween display, BTW. I am a new follower from Today’s Creative Blog. Vicky from Mess For Less
Wow….love the colors you chose!! Nicely done!
Smart!!
Love this!! Great idea!! I’m a new follower, hope you will check out my blog if you get a chance.
I am a fan of numbers and letters…great idea. I’m your newest follower. Please follow me back and get a chance to win a driftwood sailboat. Looking forward to hearing from you. Sherron
http://smallholdings.blogspot.com
I love it! I numbered a few glass jars in my kitchen and I get so many compliments.
These are so awesome! I’ve seen numbers on indoor stairs, but this is the first time I’ve seen any outdoors! Love them!
adore. so cool! featuring you tonight, thanks for linking up!
xoxo,
kelli + kristi
This is an awesome idea. Thanks for sharing. Oh…and I am your newest follower and fellow Chicagoan.
Hi Linda, smart way to do this the quick and easy way, looks wondereful!! thanks for linking up with VIF, xo
those are adorable! love the colors, too!
NEw follower!
I love your numbered stairs…and hey, if they make you smile then they are soooo worth it! Come by for some puddin n pie….
http://georgie-hornpuddinnpie.blogspot.com/2011/11/slow-down-sunday-i-aint-ready-for.html
Love it! Smart solution.
I’m just in love with your stairs!
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high on a X-mas list!
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