I Spy: Barn Stars

Today these stars are usually crafted of metal, but originally they were painted onto the barns. According to legend, they were a hex sign used by German immigrants in America, which included the Amish/Mennonite communities as well as the Pennsylvania Dutch folks. Different colors had different meanings. Green barn stars symbolize growth, fertility, success in things and ideas that grow.

This medium-sized star is a fun accent in this mostly white kitchen. Black symbolized protection, also used to blend or bind elements together.

Tip: You can use stencils or wall decals to jazz up your cabinets as well. In my last house, my cabinets were crudola, so I stenciled words like GLASSES, PLATES, SNACKS on the corresponding cabinets in a cool font. Inevitably, people would come over and say "why the heck did you write on your cabinets you dope?!" Then, two minutes later, they'd say, "Hey Becky, where do you keep the plates?" and I'd just stare at them, raise my eyebrows in a way that said "whose the dope now?" and laugh.

This larger star is the perfect fit for this nursery's commode; its points hit the molding in just the right spots.

The number of points on these stars has varied over the years. A metallic six-pointed star adds some good-luck glam to this wet bar.

Another metallic star works well in this sophisticated country living room, which balances luxury and comfort.

The star is a sweet accent on this dreamy playhouse.

A Texas barn star typically has five points and a ring around it. This one's ring looks like a cowboy's rope lasso.

A barn star inspired a relief design on this cabinet door, lending it an extra dose of country style.

A special thanks to Claudia of The Artistic Garden for all of the great information about barn stars she posted on her site.

More:
Cowboy Chic
American Pastoral: Inspiring Farmhouse Style
Get the Look: Sophisticated Country