Put a flock in it with monochrome design

Jun 1 2008 John Amabile

Q I am looking for a wallpaper like an old-fashioned flock style but in black on white. I've seen lots of colours but not the simple, monochrome look.

A Bailey Black wallpaper by Next could be just what you are looking for. It costs £17 per roll. Log on to www.next.co.uk or call 0845 600 7000 for details.

Q Where can I buy a wasp catcher? You could get them everywhere years ago but I have been unable to track down any in the shops now.

A Next sell this hanging glass wasp catcher. At only £7 it looks good and also does the job. Log on to www.next.co.uk to order.

Q I saw a table light in a magazine that looked just like a twisted piece of flat metal. I think it is meant to look like a piece of ribbon. Any idea where I can buy it?

A At £99, Habitat's Ribbon lamp looks great with a strong, architectural look - perfect for a modern interior and comes in a white, steel or copper finish. Order from www.habitat.net

Q I want a sofa with a dark wooden frame for my conservatory - but I don't have a lot of money. I can re-cover the cushions to suit my colour scheme but can't find a style I like.

A Check out the Lillberg sofa from IKEA which comes in a birch finish or with a black frame - all for just £165. Even in its own white cover it looks sensational. Log on to www.ikea.co.uk for details.

Q I am looking for a simple ceiling light to hang above the dining table in my new white kitchen. I want something big but simple.

A Oversize objects work well in minimalist interiors and the Stockholm pendant light from IKEA sounds exactly what you want. At just £65 it won't break the bank either. Click on www.ikea.co.uk or visit your nearest store.

Q I have seen a mushroomshaped table lamp with a chrome base and matching shade and loved it but I cannot find it anywhere. Please help.

A The Leitmotiv mushroom chrome lamp is a classic 1960s design and originals cost a small fortune. But you can pick up a reproduction of this stunning lamp for just £29 by logging on to www.contemporaryheaven.co.uk or by calling 01462 0451199.

Q Where can I buy the plastic film that you apply to plain glass to make windows look frosted?

A Check out www.frostbrite.com who have more than 130 designs of this great product. The website also has an online shop where you can browse designs - from geometric to pretty florals - sizes and lengths and they also offer a cut-to-size service.

Q I'd like to paint the shabby floorboards in our bedroom but would prefer green to the usual white.Where can I buy specialist light green floor paint?

A The Little Greene paint company - www.thelittlegreene.com. Slaked Lime floor paint sounds just the job for you - it is a gorgeous, soft white colour with just a hint of green. This paint is developed specially for floors and looks great. It costs £33 for a 2.5 litre tin. Use white for the rest of the room with lime green accessories for a peaceful, harmonious, fresh look.

Q Where can I buy lamps with a black flock pattern for my dining table? I'm on a budget so would appreciate a real bargain.

A get yourself down to Matalan who have this great flock lamp for only £10. It has a steel base with a feature glass ball. It's a real bargain. Check out the website www.matalan.co.uk or your nearest store.

Q I have inherited my aunt's old armchair and sofa. They are a nice shape but the fabric cover is old-fashioned and way past its best. I have tried covering it with throws but it looks worse. Where can I buy tailor-made fitted covers that won't break the bank?

A The Dali range from Littlewoods Direct catalogue starts from £58. It has large enough sections to cover even the biggest sofas (up to 2.3m) and has tailoring straps and ties for a perfect fit. Click on www.littlewoodsdirect.com or call 08448 222 321 for details.