We’ve mentioned our book a few times recently, so we wanted to share an update on how the process is going. A couple months ago we wrote about landing the book deal and the early stages of writing, but now we’re deep into the work and there’s a lot more to report.
When we last checked in, we had finished a roughly 160-page outline and begun coordinating the book’s design with our publisher. The concept remains the same: a collection of about 250 ideas for “showing your home some love,” ranging from small art projects and quick updates to larger makeovers involving paint and furniture. Our publisher, Artisan, debated whether to keep a Fall release or move to spring; we requested the earlier date and agreed to accelerate the schedule. That meant an intense push from then on.
- Over two weeks—coincidentally covering Christmas and New Year’s—we turned our completed outline into a full manuscript. It was a rush, but we finished it on time.
- Our publisher took a week to read our manuscript. We expected revisions, but were relieved when there were no major rewrites requested.
- Next it went to a copy editor for line edits, grammar checks, and punctuation, and then it returned to us for review.
- Last Saturday we received a hard copy of the manuscript with all of the publisher’s and copy editor’s notes marked in different colored pencils. Our job was to use the blue pencil they sent to answer queries, accept or reject edits, and make final revisions. Seeing the 375-page single-sided document in print felt surprisingly official—and also made it easier to catch things than reading on a screen.
- We dove in and worked steadily. The polished manuscript had to be returned to the publisher quickly, so we shipped it back overnight on Saturday. Sherry handled the lion’s share of the detailed work—two full days of focused editing—while I took care of Clara and household tasks between naps.
- After about 16 hours spread over two days spent reading and responding, we filled in a few gaps and rewrote some sections to clarify project steps. Then it was off to the publisher again.
The manuscript is only part of the book journey. A major chunk of our time has been preparing for the photo shoots that began yesterday morning. Here’s how that side of the process is unfolding:
- Of the roughly 250 ideas in the book, about 100 will be photographed, another 100 will be illustrated, and the remainder are straightforward tips that don’t require images. That means around 100 projects needed to be completed and staged for photography—no small feat.
- We didn’t go full speed on every project until after the manuscript was first submitted after New Year’s—we avoided investing time in items that might be cut. That left about 30 days to finish the remaining projects, which meant many late nights of painting, sewing, cutting, and shopping. Thankfully some projects were completed in advance and were ready for the shoots.
- We’re not doing all this solo. The publisher brought on a producer to keep the schedule organized—many projects need before, process, and after shots, which multiplies the workload. We also have help sourcing supplies: sometimes we pick things up ourselves, and other times our assistant secures items so we can meet shoot deadlines.
- A professional photographer is on board, which makes a huge difference in translating our projects into beautiful images. We still select and make every item, stage each shot, and style the scenes, so we’re very involved in every step.
- Our modest book budget means we rely on thrift stores, Craigslist, and borrowed pieces from friendly retailers. That constraint keeps the projects realistic and inspires plenty of budget-friendly ideas (you’ll see projects under $50, $25, and even under $5).
- Our house has become a staging area. Completed projects are stacked in the guestroom, works in progress occupy the dining room, and the sunroom is full of items we can’t touch until their “before” photos are taken. Fabric, frames, and paint cans are everywhere—creative chaos, but purposeful.
- We’d love to share every detail immediately, but we’re holding back to preserve surprises for the book. Still, here are a few sneak-peek images so you can get a sense of the work (as much as we can show at this stage):
- Most of the next three weeks will be devoted to book photography—roughly 8:30am to 6pm, four days a week. Our home will essentially function as a photo studio. We wrap up just before traveling for the Portland Home & Garden Show, so February (and the month ahead) will be packed.
- We’re hosting a small crew in our house for most of the month, which has been great so far. Yesterday we completed many “before” photos and then got straight to painting and upholstering once the crew left. It feels good to see tangible progress.
- Many readers have asked what will happen to the finished projects after the shoot. We hope to donate or auction some, return borrowed items as agreed, and possibly keep a very small number of sentimental pieces. None of the book projects were designed specifically to fit into our home, which made them more playful and colorful than our usual decor.
Update: We’re considering a charity auction or giveaway for some of the finished items, but logistics like shipping are still being worked out. A few pieces will be returned to lenders as planned.
Sorry if responses to comments have been slower than usual—we’re juggling the blog, the book, and life at home. Despite the hectic pace, we’re grateful for the opportunity and excited to share the finished book and behind-the-scenes photos when the time comes. Anyone else keeping long-term secrets or hosting a mini production in their home? Tell us how your house looks right now—we won’t judge.
P.S. Thank goodness our little one sleeps through the night so we can get things done (more on her routine over on Young House Life).