Imagine a centerpiece as useful as it is eye-catching. Philadelphia potter Marge Margulies takes the image of an unfolding flower as the inspiration for nesting bowls that can be used alone as serving dishes or nestled together to create an eye-catching display.
The bowls are wheel-thrown and painted with colored glazes. All pieces are dishwasher- and microwave-safe.
The eight-piece Red Cabbage Rose With Bowl and Platters sells for $574. The blue 10-piece Cabbage Rose With Platter is $664 and the eight-piece Mille Feuille is $210.
For more information or to place an order, call 215-844-9603 or visit www.margemarguliespottery.com
Amenities that make you want to jump in the tub
If surround-sound stereo and wide-screen TV in the family room seem too commonplace these days, perhaps you're ready for Jacuzzi's new whirlpool bath and entertainment center.
LaScala bathing and entertainment center offers a state-of-the-art home theater surround system, a built-in 42-inch plasma screen, DVD / CD / AM / FM stereo and, for added convenience, a remote control that floats.
Just in case you need a little extra pampering, there are 10 adjustable hydrotherapy jets to offer a full-body massage. La Scala is available in white, black and platinum. Prices start at $29,000.
For more information, visit www.jacuzzi.com.
The problem with pollen
Lilies in bloom may be one of the best parts of summer, but the pesky pollen on their anthers is not -- at least when the flowers are gracing a vase in your home. Some people prefer to remove the anthers, while others think this leaves the flower looking artificial.
Either way, it's good to know what to do when lily pollen stains a fabric. The Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center in New York has these suggestions:
* Do not brush the pollen away with your hands; oils from your skin could set the stain. And do not use water or a wet cloth; this will only spread and set the stain.
* Let the pollen dry; then carefully brush it away with a dry, soft brush or facial tissue. Sticky tape also works well; gently dab pieces of tape on the fabric to lift off the pollen.
* If some pollen remains after you've tried these remedies, place the item in direct sunlight for a few hours. The stain should disappear.
* Pollen stains can often be removed from washable fabrics by pre-treating them with an enzymatic detergent.
Upping the style ante of playing cards
The folks at Umbra believe design is an attitude as well as a discipline. Their aim is to create drama, pleasure and casual sophistication in every project, from window shades to dish racks and trash cans.
Two years ago, the company introduced its Ante playing cards, featuring a unique, streamlined shape and translucent plastic traveling cases. The cards were a hit, so Umbra has expanded the line to include such colors as fuchsia, amber and polar blue -- all perfect for beach trips or an evening's entertainment at home.
Priced at $6.95, you can find them and other Umbra products at Abizak's, 208 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Del., 302-227-6595, or at Home Rule, 1897 14th St. N.W., Washington, D.C., 202-797-5544.
Event
* Learn about plants that cure common ailments and how to make some medicinal concoctions, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. July 7 at the Irvine Nature Center, 8400 Greenspring Ave. Fee is $8; $5 for donors. Register by July 3 by calling 410-484-2413.
Home Front welcomes interesting home and garden news. Please send suggestions to Liz Atwood, Home Front, The Sun, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, or fax to 410-783-2519. Information must be received at least four weeks in advance to be considered.