Stars and Stripes

Though you may not have the advantage of Oceanside property and the crystal-clear blue skies of Maine, it's easy to add nautically inspired and patriotic themes to your home.

For a summery feel, slipcover upholstery with medium-weight, washable cotton duck or ticking. When working with a red, white, and blue palette, don't be afraid to mix bold stripes and colorful florals.

If nowhere else, the dining table -- inside or out -- offers one of the best spots to show off patriotic themes. Search fabric stores for inexpensive, dress-weight cottons to make napkins to pair with woven place mats. Solid white dishes or white tableware with blue trim can be found at department stores or home stores.

Though vintage wicker in good condition is hard to find and generally pricey, consider the newly made wicker offered by a number of major manufacturers. If you're handy with a paintbrush, paint a nautical or patriotic scene on a not-too-precious chest of drawers. Or opt for a stenciled border of stars, seashells, or sailor's knots.

Inexpensive shutters from a home improvement store are always a good accessory item. Again, a little paint and a lot of imagination can turn them into displays of patriotism.