My sister-in-law wanted a John Deere–inspired nursery, so I got to work. The first step was finding the perfect John Deere fabric; once we had that, the rest of the room’s design fell into place.

I began with the most time-consuming project: a rag quilt. My sewing skills are basic, so I researched rag-quilt techniques and followed a simple method. It turned out to be easier than expected and the quilt was finished quickly.

Next, I transformed a crib bumper pad we already owned by sewing a slipcover from the John Deere fabric to match the quilt.

I used the same rag-quilt technique to make valances for the windows, which tied the bedding and window treatments together beautifully.

We refreshed an old bookcase with matching paint and added a gathered curtain made from coordinating fabric on a tension rod to conceal storage on the lower shelves.

We also updated a replica milk can lamp by repainting it and recovering the lampshade with leftover fabric. An old milk can became a painted trashcan, and a few tractor decals finished both pieces.

For a touch of whimsy, I used coordinating scrapbook paper and thrifted frames to create a personalized nameplate for the wall. I also decoupaged a light-switch cover with the same paper for a cohesive detail.

Finally, a friend helped project and trace a cartoon-style John Deere tractor from a coloring page onto the wall using an overhead projector, then painted it in bright, playful colors. Thank you, Denise!

This project was a lot of fun. I enjoyed learning to make a rag quilt and adapting that look for valances and other decor. Spending time with family and friends to create a unique nursery made the whole process even more rewarding.