Accent green decor with bold zebra-printed accessories.
When decorating with a green, white and black color scheme, go for an exotic look. Nature-inspired green shades will complement and tone down bold black-and-white pieces. Avoid using delicate pastel green shades, which will get lost among the black-and-white decor. A traditional black-and-white color scheme is classy, and pops of vibrant green will add a fresh touch to the design. The eye-catching color scheme will complement any room in your home. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Paint the walls a fresh green color as a backdrop to black and white decor. Choose a medium-toned natural green shade, such as fern or grass green. Pick lime green if you prefer a brighter shade.
2. Choose a white cotton-upholstered couch and love seat set for a breezy look. Pick a coffee and side table set featuring dark wood and wrought-iron details as a casually elegant touch. Enhance a bedroom with a lacy black wrought-iron headboard and dark wood furniture featuring wrought-iron hardware.
3. Decorate with textiles. Drape a leaf green-hued cashmere throw blanket over the back of the white couch. Place a black-and-white zebra-printed pillow at each couch end. Cover a bed with a luxurious white down comforter and enhance it with a mix of zebra-printed and solid green decorative pillows. Add a soft touch to wood or tile floors with a plush zebra-printed rug.
4. Accent the design with green decor items for a fresh look. Place a tall tropical plant in a black ceramic pot and use it to fill in an empty corner. Fill a green ceramic or glass vase with fresh white roses and yellow tulips, to incorporate another bright color into the mix. Hang silver wall sconces above a couch or bed and fill them with green candles.
Tags: color scheme, with green, dark wood, green decor, green shades, will complement
Simple Japanese sleeping mattresses called futons have progressed over the years and can now be stylish and versatile sofa beds. They are perfect for little areas where a regular bed or a conventional sofa bed won't fit. You can use them as a couch, or they can be folded out to provide a bed. Futons now come in 34 x 75 inches, making full-size beds. Folding them back up into a couch is simple once you've practiced a few times. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Identify the front of the futon bed. It will likely be the bed end pointing out into the room; the end pointing toward the wall is likely the back deck. Note that the sleeping area isn't necessarily in a classic position--the head at the wall and the toes pointing out toward the room. The sleeping position may well be parallel to the wall.
2. Grasp the front of the seat deck. That's the part of the seat deck furthest from the wall.
3. Lift the seat deck until it's a little over 45 degrees to the back deck. The back deck should remain horizontal. Push the seat deck a further 5 or 10 degrees toward the back deck. The back deck and seat deck will latch.
4. Drop the seat deck back down to the horizontal position. Because the back deck has become fixed to the seat deck at an angle, the back deck will rise into a sofa back position as you drop the seat deck.
5. Push the couch back against the wall.
Tags: seat deck, back deck, deck back, back deck back, deck back deck, deck will, Futon Into
If you're donating furniture to charity, selling it or distributing it to the heirs of an estate, you may need to determine the fair market value of the furniture. You will approach the task differently depending on whether the furniture is antique or has been purchased within the last several years. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Hire a qualified appraiser if you need to find the fair market value of antique furniture. This person can provide you with documentation estimating the furniture's value.
2. Adopt a rule of thumb whenever you need to determine the fair market value of furniture that is not antique. Most furniture has a life expectancy of about five years, although some pieces may last considerably longer. Just like a new car, furniture loses value as soon as it leaves the store. Consequently, by depreciating furniture by 20 percent per year for four years, and 5 percent for each of the next four years, you can justify a reasonable fair market value of most furniture. This method is very useful if you must determine the value of furniture to be distributed by an estate.
3. If you give your furniture to a charity, note that you cannot take a deduction on your federal income tax return unless the furniture is in good condition, because it has little value if it is worn or out of style. Per Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidelines that became effective on August 17, 2006, any deduction for household goods given to charity above $500 must be valued by a qualified appraiser. This applies to both antique and recently purchased furniture. The appraisal must address the furniture's condition and authenticity, along with an estimate of its value. Not withstanding such documentation, the IRS can question the size of your donation and require more evidence supporting its value.
4. Check listings of furniture on eBay.com. Not only can you find prices for furniture that are currently listed, you can also see what certain pieces sold for in the past month by going to "advanced search."
5. Sell used furniture on Craigslist.org. Once you have established a value for your furniture, you can go to this website, find your city and advertise items for sale. The beauty of this website is that potential buyers live near you, making delivery less of an issue. You can also sell used furniture at furnituretrader.com.
Tags: fair market, fair market value, market value, value furniture, determine fair market, four years
The Hubley Manufacturing Company began in 1894 and produced cast iron toys and household objects such as bookends and doorstops. The products were painted by hand, which has raised the value with collectors who prize the items for their uniqueness and history. Because of the popularity of Hubley doorstops with collectors, replicas are available in the market but there are a few techniques to correctly identify an authentic Hubley doorstop.
Instructions
1. Consider the age of the item. While some antique doorstops are in excellent condition, the paint should look older and appropriate for the time period, with some small chipping of paint. If the item looks brand new or repainted, it is probably not an authentic Hubley doorstop. There should be signs of wear in logical places, at the top and base of the doorstop.
2. Pick up the doorstop, if possible, and feel the metal. Authentic Hubleys will feel smooth to the touch, not rough or bumpy. The quality of the metalwork on Hubley items was high and attention was paid to detail.
3. Examine the casting seams, which should be tight, and the screws, which should be slotted screws. If Phillips-head screws are on the piece, it is probably a reproduction.
4. Look for signs that the mold marks were filed by hand instead of by power tools, which leave grind marks that are broader and coarser. If there is evidence of power tool use, the item is not an authentic Hubley doorstop.
5. Turn the doorstop over and look for a 3-digit number inscribed on the bottom. This number is indicative that the item is an authentic Hubley and is a detail that many reproductions miss.
Tags: authentic Hubley, authentic Hubley doorstop, Hubley doorstop, item authentic, item authentic Hubley, which should, with collectors
Tudor style, which originated in the late medieval period in the United Kingdom, features half-timbered stucco exteriors, steeply pitched roofs, arched doorways, wall niches and diamond-pane and leaded-glass windows. This style, named for the Tudor monarchy, was frequently recreated in 1920s suburban America. These Tudor Revival homes and cottages, which can still be found in many mature American neighborhoods, have a charming and cozy look. If you are fortunate enough to own a Tudor cottage, maintaining the home's unique architectural character is key. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Dark, rich wood such as oak, mahogany, cherry or walnut was used in paneling and detailing in many Tudor cottages. Make the wood a focal point. If it has been painted over the years, strip it and give it a dark stain to restore its original look. Highlight half-timbered beams in the ceiling by painting the walls or ceiling around them a light color. Check under carpeting for original hardwood or tile flooring. Remove the carpeting and refinish the original floors.
2. Wrought iron is another prominent element of Tudor style. If your Tudor cottage's original lighting fixtures and door hardware have been stripped away, replace them with vintage iron pieces from antique stores or architectural salvage shops. Porch lights, mailboxes, chandeliers and sconces should have a hand-forged look. Other signature Tudor features include wrought-iron stair railings and fireplace accessories.
3. Hang large colorful tapestries on the walls to add texture, depth and warmth to your rooms. Place large oriental rugs throughout your home to add an extra layer of warmth, especially on cold days.
4. Play up your cottage's natural stone elements. If your Tudor has a large, imposing stone fireplace, make it a focal point by arranging furniture around it, hanging a large tapestry above it and placing pewter or iron candlesticks on the mantle.
5. Repeat motifs common in Tudor homes, such as the Tudor rose, the fleur de lis and the thistle. Use them in fabrics such as window treatments, linens and furniture upholstery.
Tags: focal point, Tudor cottage, Tudor homes, Tudor style, your Tudor
A patio is a paved outdoor area usually located in a home's backyard.
A patio is a paved outdoor area built level to the ground, not to be confused with a deck, which is an outdoor area built above ground level. Most patios are located in the backyard for privacy purposes and consist of solid flooring, such as stone or tile. You can use your patio as an outdoor dining room, sitting area, party space or playroom. As long as it's outdoors and at ground level, the possibilities for your patio are only limited by your imagination. Does this Spark an idea?
Flagstone Patio
A flagstone patio provides a natural look and sturdy surface that can last for years. A small square patio consisting of broken flagstones has an earthy appeal with a subtle look that works well for a small backyard. A wooden picnic table and small grill on the flagstone patio turns the area into an outdoor dining room without resulting in a cluttered appearance.
Granite Patio
A large, round stone patio consisting of granite blocks provides a crisp design that pairs well with many different styles. Wrought iron chairs and tables around the inner patio and large, flower-filled granite planters along the outer patio produce a formal sitting area with a hint of old-world charm. White wicker benches around the outer patio and a large marble fountain in the middle of the patio produce a cheerful look with a classic style.
Pebble Patio
Go for a casual and earthy look in your backyard with a small, half-circle-shaped patio consisting of pebbles set in cement. The secure pebbles provide the appearance of a natural surface without the hassle of loose pebbles scattering across the yard. A rustic wood umbrella table with matching chairs preserves the earthy style and provides shaded seating for socializing or dining. Herb-filled plant pots along the straight side of the half-circle patio form a natural background decoration and infuse the air with earthy scents.
Tile Patio
Tile patios provide ample color and pattern selections, but they also need regular maintenance and repair over the years. A large, kidney-shaped patio covered with a water-themed mosaic consisting of blue/white/tan/green tiles and blue tile trim forms a welcoming area with a touch of Mediterranean style.
You can decorate the tiled patio with a single theme that encompasses the entire area, or two different themes that turn each side of the patio into a separate area. For example, scattered clay flowerpots, wooden benches, wooden chairs and stone tables turn the patio into a general entertaining area with ample seating. A deluxe grill, umbrella table and chairs on one side of the patio and herb-filled plant pots, small water fountains and iron benches on the other side turn the patio into separate dining and sitting/reading areas.
Tags: area with, outdoor area, patio consisting, patio into, area built, dining room, flagstone patio
Rout hanger slots in the back of floating shelves to conceal mounting screws.
Hanger slots in shelves allow you to hang shelves on the wall without exposing any mounting hardware. The slots are shaped like a keyhole. The large hole in the keyhole allows you to slide the head of a screw into the back and then slide down to the end of the slot. These can be cut with a plunge router and a keyhole bit or a smaller rotary tool with a plunge router attachment and bit. This technique can be applied to many other wall-mounted projects, such as plaques and key hooks.
Instructions
1. Place the wooden shelf on a work bench with the back side facing up. Clamp the shelf to the work surface with bench clamps.
2. Mark the location of the hanger slot with a tape measure and pencil. Center the slot in the width of the shelf. Mark the starting location of the slot and the slot length. The starting location is where the large hole will be located. It is at the bottom of the slot. The slot length should be approximately 1 inch. This is where you will stop the router cut.
3. Insert the keyhole bit into the router. Adjust the plunge depth to 1/2 inch.
4. Turn on the router and center it over the starting location of the slot. Plunge the router into the surface of the wood at the starting location until you have reached the full plunge depth. Hold it at that depth and move the router across the surface of the wood to cut the slot. Stop at the end of the marked slot length. Turn the router off and remove it from the slot once the blade has stopped moving.
5. Remove the clamps from the shelf. Sand the surface of the shelf around the keyhole slot lightly in the direction of the grain, using fine-grit sandpaper.
Color is a critical element of planning a distinctive flowerbed.
A flowerbed gives free range to your imagination. Choose colors, textures, scents and plot size to suit your fancy. But push the envelope a bit by planting flowerbeds in unexpected places, using props for added interest, making a statement with curated plants and building surprises right into the plots so that even the smallest garden is packed with delightful discoveries. Does this Spark an idea?
Full-Front Curb Appeal
The front entryway or a spot in the yard are ideal locations for a flowerbed. A winding paver trail leading to a small porch is an invitation to plant pansies. Back them with mid-size annuals and overhanging, climbing, sprawling rose bushes. Planters edging the porch steps and a hanging basket or two flanking the entrance pull the garden right into the house. A boring square of front lawn becomes the green velvet border of a circle of flowers set like a small sculpture in the yard. Floribunda roses provide height at the center of the circle and bloom all summer. Blue petunias, blue lobelia and yellow marigolds surround the rose bush with a primary color perimeter. Or stick with white petunias and daisies, blue lobelia and crimson roses like the Europeana for a red, white and blue patriotic summer flowerbed.
Monochromatic Palette
Borrow a leaf from a world famous British estate garden, and create a flower bed of all one color. At Sissinghurst in Kent, England, the white room is a garden set apart by border shrubs and hedges and planted all in white with silvery foliage. Keep your one-color design contemporary with geometric blocks of the same flowers and varied heights to keep things visually interesting. A low green boxwood hedge runs perpendicular to the back fence on two sides and is open in the front. Its deep green foliage encloses spring triangles of yellow tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. Those are replaced by summer carpets of buttercups and black-eyed Susans bordering beds of golden day lilies, trellises of creamy heritage roses and giant sunflowers and honeysuckle vines along the fence. By early fall, the spring beds are bright with mums and marigolds, and, if you've tucked a pumpkin vine in somewhere, you have orange globes, like fallen harvest moons, to end the season.
Country Cottage Chaos
Even the overspilling exuberance of cottage wildflowers, pots, planters and ornamental grasses needs a few defining principles. Recycle interesting and offbeat containers, like a huge metal pasta pot with drainage holes drilled in the bottom filled with geraniums or a weather worn wrought iron bistro chair as a trellis for climbing vines. Tuck your found planters into flowerbeds bisected by meandering paths of pavers overgrown by groundcover and lined with coneflowers, meadow buttercup, daisies, cowslip, dandelions, primroses, chamomile, marigolds and poppies. Cover a tiny gazebo or a doubled archway with two or three kinds of roses that bloom consecutively. A doubled arch may be just wide enough for a small bench. Make each flowerbed at least twice as wide as the tallest plant for balance. Plan early, mid-season and late bloomers to avoid bare spots. Plant some sweet scented blooms in amidst the showstoppers. Plant for crowded plots, but remember that seedlings will fill out as they grow. Install some solar lights in and around the flowerbeds so you can enjoy the garden after dark.
Flower bed design ideas allow gardeners to create pleasing patterns in their landscaping.
A beautifully arranged flower bed doesn't just come together with a handful of seeds and plenty of sunlight. In fact, creating a cohesive flower bed design is important, because different flowers grow at different sizes and heights, and clashing colors and mismatched sizes make flower beds unattractive rather than inviting. By implementing different flower beds designing ideas, you can create a themed look and organized, pleasing patterns in your outdoor areas. Does this Spark an idea?
Basic Tips
Flower bed design begins with the planting area itself. Physically walk around the area, and observe the potential flower beds throughout the day to notice when the area is in sun and when it's in shade. Make a diagram of the area and take notes of the hours of sunlight it receives. Prepare the soil by removing rocks, roots and weeds from the area. Flower beds must have well-drained, fertile soil; amend the area as necessary to prepare it for this purpose. Examine the bed's background, the surrounding trees and existing plants, and make a list of colors that will complement the space.
Perennial Garden
Plant perennial flowers that bloom every year for low-maintenance flower beds that need re-planting only infrequently. Unlike annuals, which must be re-planted once a year, perennials will bloom for several years in a row. Peony, lavender, coneflower, aster, shasta daisy, daylily, chrysanthemum, phlox and daffodil flowers are all common perennial flowers that will bloom yearly without re-planting.
Classic Themes
Design your flower beds around classic themes that have been used in gardens for centuries. For example, you can emulate an English country garden by interspersing aromatic herbs with vivid flowers. For a French-themed garden, use lush greenery to create a Mediterranean effect. Country gardens are often designed with curving pathways. To design a more formal flower garden, create flower beds with straight lines by edging them with stonework or brick borders.
Wildlife
Some flower bed design ideas focus on attracting wildlife. Plant a butterfly garden to fill outdoor areas with two kinds of life and color. Design flower beds with combinations of asters, black-eyed Susans, butterfly weeds, rosemary, daylilies, goldenrod, hibiscus, lavender, lilacs, marigolds, butterfly bushes, purple coneflowers and verbena to attract a variety of butterflies to your garden. Additionally, flowers that attract butterflies often draw other types of nectar-loving insects, including bees.
After time, especially in rough climates, rust appears on iron gates and fences. The raw metal is at the mercy of the elements when the paint chips. Thus, wind, rain and snow can create rust spots. This not only looks unappealing but also can weaken the integrity of the iron. Take action as soon as the rust begins to latch onto the iron gate. This is important so the gate does not fall apart and an expensive replacement occurs. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Add hot water to the spray bottle. Screw the sprayer on tightly.
2. Spray the rusted area of the gate with the water. Wipe down with one rag to remove any loose rust or dirt.
3. Scrub the rusted portion with the wire brush. Rub the area in an up and down motion, roughly 10 to 15 times.
4. Mist the rust with the water again. Wipe away rust particles with the first rag. Use the second rag when the first becomes too dirty to work with properly.
5. Repeat steps 2 to 4, until you remove all the rust from the iron gate.
do not have to look ordinary or as if they were chosen out of a catalog. They can be painted to create a more personal look or custom-designed as a one-of-a-kind fence. When working with local fencing contractors, ask for something different in a fence panel design. Use fence panels in ways that have nothing to do with exterior fencing for an added decorative touch. Does this Spark an idea?
Use Decoratively
Pre-made fence panels come in several different heights and can be found integrated into brick walls, stone fences and even used as railing on decks. Use an open-design fence panel as a garden trellis mounted between two posts or close to a wall or side of the house. Use lower, shorter panels to outline interior gardens or special areas of the yard containing a meditation bench, Zen garden or prize plants. Fence panels can also be used singly or in groups to guide visitors through a yard or to a patio area, as a protective screen, or to block a view or hide an air-conditioner.
Add Some Color
Fence panels come in very basic colors, usually white or beige, and materials, vinyl or unpainted wood. Paint the interior of the panel colorfully to liven up the backyard. Clean the surface with soap and water, rinse thoroughly and allow the surface to dry. Spray vinyl or plastic panels with a primer designed for use on plastics and hard vinyls before spraying the surface with color. Follow the paint manufacturer's directions for the products and add a final coat of sealer for further water resistance. Consider staining the wood fence panel instead of painting it. Try a colored stain such as a deep green or a brown-red as a backdrop to the landscaping.
Design a Panel
Wood fence panels can be designed and made by local fencing companies. Design a pattern that fits the style of your home and yard. Collect images from magazines and books. Carry a camera and begin collecting photos of what others have done. Using graph paper and pencil, design a single panel to be repeated throughout the majority of the fence. Keep the core panel (the one repeated over and over) a simple plank design and add a foot-high decorative panel that contains a pattern reflecting an Asian, arts and crafts or other decorative style. Consider designing a fence panel that is more open and not so private, one that mixes several colors of wood or that mimics the window pane pattern of your home. Work directly with a fence-building expert to perfect the fence panel design.
There are many different styles of patio furniture
Summer is a time for outdoor activities with family and friends. There are barbeques and pool parties, and the chance to just sitting outside and read a book. The right patio furniture will keep you and your guests comfortable throughout the summer. There are many different styles of patio furniture and choosing the right furniture depends on a couple of different factors, such as durability and personal style. Does this Spark an idea?
Natural Wicker
Wicker furniture is the one of the most popular varieties of outdoor furniture. There are different types of natural wicker: rattan, cane, and reed. Rattan is a fibrous material that is woven. It is extremely durable and easy to stain or paint. Cane is as durable as rattan but has a natural glossy finish that make it impossible to repaint. Reed is the innermost part of the rattan plant; it is the least durable and not really suited for continuous outdoor use.
Synthetic Wicker
Synthetic wicker comes in the same varieties as natural wicker but is manufactured and not grown. It is more durable then natural wicker however and resistant to stains, mildew, sun damage and salt water. You can also paint it to suit your style.
Bamboo
Bamboo furniture is commonly mistaken for wicker rattan furniture, but it is tougher and easier to treat against weather damage. Harder to weave then rattan, bamboo is not meant to handle as much weight. It is normally used to make foot stools and outdoor bars.
Teak
Teak wood patio furniture is extremely durable as teak is one of the most weather resistant hardwoods. It needs no artificial treatments because of its compact structural fibers. Teak wood oil can be applied if you wish to protect the wood. You can paint it but is usually left in its natural state.
Wrought Iron
Wrought Iron is an extremely durable type of patio furniture. It does require some maintenance, however. Depending on the finish, the paint might start to chip at some point. This can be easily mended with touch up paint. Wrought iron furniture is also heavy so moving it can be a difficulty. Getting cushions will also make the furniture more comfortable.
Tags: patio furniture, extremely durable, different styles, different styles patio, many different, many different styles, natural wicker
Europe is known for its historic sites, beautiful buildings, wonderful artwork and extensive gardens. The region boasts many flower gardens, some on the grounds of castles, others serving as public parks. These flower gardens are sufficient reason to plan a trip to Europe. The flowers highlighted in the gardens often represent native species; tulips are a popular component of gardens in the Netherlands, while roses are popular in England.
Luxembourg Palace and Gardens
Situated in the heart of Paris' elegant Right Bank, this formal garden has rows and rows of flowers. The Luxembourg Palace was built for Marie di Medici in the Florentine style in the 17th century. The gardens surround the palace. They are plotted around a central lake, where intellectuals from the nearby university pull up wrought iron chairs to read in the sun. On weekends, the park is popular with families whose small children float toy sailboats on the lake.
Luxembourg Gardens
75006 Paris
France
011-33-01-4234-2362
paris.org/Monuments/Luxembourg
Kew Gardens
More than just a garden, the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, informally referred to as Kew Gardens, in Surrey, England, works to conserve plant species. The 326-acre area preserves everything from lily pads to tropical flowers in its marshes, bamboo gardens and greenhouses. Located on the River Thames, Kew Gardens boasts a breathtaking array of trees. One popular feature is the Rhizotron and Xstrata Treetop Walkway, which takes visitors underground and then 59 feet in the air to walk among the trees.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Richmond
Surrey
TW9 3AB
United Kingdom
011-44-020-08332-5607
kew.org
Gardens at Giverny
The gardens at Giverny are home to the famous water lilies that inspired French painter Claude Monet. Located about 50 miles from Paris, Giverny is actually two different gardens. Most of the flowers are in the Clos Normand, located in front of the house. The most famous example of the naturally styled, unpretentious flowers is the climbing rose. Another famous scene from Monet features the wisteria that hangs over a small Japanese-style bridge. The second garden, located in the back, is home to the water lilies.
Claude Monet Gardens at Giverny
Rue Claude Monet
27620 Giverny
France
giverny.org
Tags: Claude Monet, flower gardens, Luxembourg Gardens, Luxembourg Palace, water lilies
Chandeliers that appear small from ground level can actually be large, heavy fixtures.
Installing a chandelier goes far beyond providing light for a room in your home. Chandeliers accent decor and can add an elegant, classic or modern touch to the space while also serving as a functional fixture. If you have a heavy, 400-pound chandelier to hang, the weight may limit your options or force you to take special steps to ensure that it is mounted properly. Does this Spark an idea?
Weight Issues
A chandelier can weigh as much as 400 pounds, for a number of reasons. Size is a significant factor, particularly with large chandeliers designed for tall foyers and formal living or dining rooms. Materials are another source of weight. While all chandeliers have similar electrical wiring and glass bulbs, some use solid metal construction such as wrought iron, polished brass or stainless steel. With the added weight of ornamentation, a chandelier can easily weigh several hundred pounds.
Mounting Hardware
A 400-pound chandelier requires special mounting hardware. Even a heavy-duty electrical box, which would be the first choice for mounting a lighter fixture, can only handle fixtures of just over 50 pounds. For a chandelier that weighs 400 pounds, you need to install a hickey, which is a metal fastener that mounts to a ceiling joist and supports the full weight of the chandelier. A hickey for a 400-pound chandelier will use several screws to attach to the joist and one or more bolts to attach to the chandelier's mounting stud near the top of the fixture.
Tips
Heavy chandeliers should come with special mounting instructions that provide warnings and recommendations for installation. Read these carefully before beginning, and check the weight rating of each element you use, including electrical boxes, joists and bolts. The weakest link in the mounting system is where the danger of a fall is greatest. Always perform chandelier mounting with the electricity turned off, to avoid shocks and electrocution.
Getting Help
If you're uncertain about the structure of your ceiling or your ability to mount a chandelier that weighs more than twice as much as an average person, consider hiring a professional to perform the job. A 400-pound chandelier is a major task for a homeowner, but it's far from the limit of what a professional can mount. Specialty electrical installers can make the necessary modifications to a typical residential ceiling to hang a chandelier that weighs up to 700 pounds. The cost of professional installation will be far less than the cost of repairs if your chandelier falls.
Tags: 400-pound chandelier, chandelier that, chandelier that weighs, that weighs, chandelier mounting
Toss a handmade afghan on the daybed to add country charm.
Decorating a small room with an antique daybed gives it a charming ambiance. Daybeds are versatile because they can substitute for a sofa in a room; the sides and back frame give it the look of a deep couch. Using the right paint colors and other decor makes the small space look visually larger. Antique furnishings are appropriate with country or Victorian styles, or you can mismatch the furniture and decor to create an eclectic look. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Move everything out of the room that isn't functional or particularly attractive. A cluttered area seems smaller than one that has few knickknacks or extraneous objects.
2. Paint the walls a warm color if you want to accentuate the coziness of the room. Warm gold, apricot, rustic red or hunter green are appropriate shades. If you want to brighten and visually enlarge the space, use cool, pastel colors like pale blue or pale yellow.
3. Pick bedding that coordinates with the wall color, and choose a pattern that matches with many pillows, which are essential for daybeds.
4. Hang window shades in the room as the only window treatment. Using heavy draperies tends to minimize the size of the room. Select shades that are the same color as the wall, which allows the eye to flow throughout the space without breaking it up with another color, thus making it seem larger.
5. Look at the style of the daybed frame when choosing pillows and other decor for the room. For instance, if the daybed frame is wrought-iron, Victorian- or country-style pillows work well. Or create an eclectic look with any type of frame by adding pillows with bold splashes of all the accent colors in the room or funky prints.
6. Use wall art that matches the style of the daybed frame. For instance, if the frame is a pale-colored wood with clean lines, go with contemporary or minimalistic artwork to accentuate the furniture.
The ideal mailbox should be able to withstand ravages of many kinds.
Whether you're installing a new post for your mailbox or replacing a damaged one, you want to create the most sturdy construction possible. Aluminum is much more lightweight than iron and thus easier to work with, but that's where the advantages end. Because of its lightweight properties, aluminum is much more likely to be damaged from the weather or other abuse. If you want a mailbox post that will last, iron is the better choice. Does this Spark an idea?
Iron is Sturdy
If you want your mailbox post to be able to withstand almost any catastrophe, from a tree falling on it to rowdy teenagers playing mailbox baseball, you should choose iron over aluminum. Iron is much sturdier, which means it will withstand more weight and pressure. And if you set the iron post with concrete, there is nothing short of a tornado or a head-on collision with a car that will be able to dislodge the post.
Larger Capacity
Another advantage of using an iron post is its ability to hold a bigger, heavier mailbox. An aluminum post will support much less weight than will its iron counterpart. If you receive a lot of packages and don't wish for them to be left on your doorstep or, worse yet, beside your mailbox, you might prefer to install a larger capacity mailbox. An iron post could withstand the added weight with ease.
Permanence
An iron mailbox post is much more permanent than aluminum. Even if your mailbox never suffers falling trees, bad weather or mischievous teenagers, just the act of using it every day can weaken the base. Your mailbox is opened and closed a minimum of twice on most weekdays; every time the box is accessed, it puts stress on the post. If an iron post is set properly into the ground with concrete, you need never worry about it becoming wobbly.
Weathering the Elements
Weatherproofing your iron post will protect it from rust.
The only real disadvantage to choosing an iron mailbox post over aluminum is rust. Simply put, iron rusts while aluminum doesn't. Being outside, your iron post will be at the mercy of the elements. This limitation is easily overcome by protecting the exposed iron with paint, chrome plating or a sacrificial zinc anode to coat the iron. The anode corrodes faster than iron, not only protecting it but giving clear indication (when the zinc visibly starts to rust) when the post is ready for another coat. Most anodes will last for at least a year, and there's no need to add a new coat until you notice corrosion.
Tags: iron post, mailbox post, much more, post will, your mailbox
An ornamental aluminum fence preserves the views around your pool, but provides no privacy.
For most pool owners, pool fencing is a major concern. Many states, counties and cities require homeowners to build a fence around their pools to protect children or anyone else who might fall into the water. In addition, many homeowners want a sense of privacy around their pool that fencing can provide. When it comes to choosing a fence for your pool, there are many options to consider. Because of the variety, you should be able to find a fence that meets your needs and helps create the look that you want for your pool area. Does this Spark an idea?
Vinyl Pool Fence
Vinyl pool fences are one of the more budget-friendly pool fencing options. They are also available in a wide range of styles, including solid, latticed and picketed. Vinyl pool fences require little maintenance and can easily be cleaned with a hose. A vinyl fence is an ideal option if you prefer privacy for your pool area because they are designed with no gaps between the posts.
Chain Link Pool Fence
If you simply want to fence in your pool within your own property and are not concerned with privacy, a chain link fence is an inexpensive pool fencing option. Because these fences feature open gaps, you are able to see your pool area from the other side. However, chain link fences are easier to climb over than other types of fences, which may be a safety issue for some pools.
Mesh Pool Fence
For a removable pool fencing option, consider a mesh fence. These fences are not permanently staked to the ground, so they may be taken down or moved if necessary. However, a mesh fence is still durable so it can serve as an effective safety fence for your pool. In addition, because of their structure, mesh fences are not easy to climb over, which increases their safety value.
Ornamental Aluminum Pool Fence
For a more decorative look to your pool fencing, consider an ornamental aluminum fence. The aluminum is coated with a polyester powder that helps prevent rust. As a result, it is highly durable and similar in appearance to a wrought iron fence. Ornamental aluminum pool fences require less maintenance than wrought iron fencing and are usually less expensive. Ornamental aluminum fences do not make effective privacy fences for a pool, though, because there are gaps between the aluminum rails. On the other hand, if you have a view surrounding your pool that you would like to preserve, an ornamental aluminum fence is an ideal option. In addition, ornamental aluminum fences are available in a variety of styles and colors, including black, green, bronze and white.
Wood Pool Fence
For a simple, traditional pool fence, wood fencing is an attractive option. Wood fences allow for full customization, so you can choose the style and size that fits your pool best. The wood may also be painted or stained in a variety of colors, so you can create a truly distinctive look for your pool area. In most cases, a wood fence is less expensive than ornamental aluminum or vinyl fences as well, so it is an ideal pool fence option if you are on a budget. However, wood fencing requires more maintenance than other types of fencing and may warp or rot over time.
Tags: your pool, pool fencing, pool area, your pool area, aluminum fence
During the Victorian Era, fencing was used to keep animals out.
The Victorian Era was an age of excess and exaggeration. The houses, inside and out, were loaded with ornamentation and intricate carvings, all designed to captivate the eye. Their choice in fencing was no different. Privacy was not the issue, since the Victorians wanted to show off their homes and gardens, but rather the purpose was to keep out animals. The preferred choice for fencing was wrought iron, and the more detailed, the better. Wrought iron is an expensive selection, however, so a picket fence with a scalloped or crowned top line is an option, as is a clever, inexpensive way to make "faux" wrought iron from the decorative pieces made for additional security on front doors. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Set The Posts
1. Check with local zoning authorities for any applicable codes for fences. Mark the property lines where the fence will be erected, and clear the designated area for the fence with all the utility companies to avoid any underground lines.
2. Set up a string line from the starting point of the fence to the end point. Mark off 8-foot increments for the posts.
3. Dig holes 1 foot deep, using the post hole digger.
4. Mix cement and water according to the manufacturer's directions. Place one post in each hole and fill the hole with the cement mix. Level the cement off with your shovel, and make certain the post is plumb. Continue until all posts are set.
5. Wait at least 24 hours before attaching the fence boards.
Add The Fence Boards
6. Attach the 2-by-4s to the posts, using the fence brackets and galvanized nails. Attach two boards in a parallel formation, placing the top line of the bottom board about 12 inches off the ground, and the bottom line of the top board about 12 inches from the top of the post. Check for level.
7. Attach pickets or decorative add-ons using galvanized nails. If using decorative add-ons, you will need to drill holes in each before mounting them on the 2-by-4s. Be certain to keep your pickets or add-ons evenly spaced throughout.
8. Using a pencil and string, temporarily nail the string in the center picket and draw a line from one post to the other, creating a crown or dip pattern for the scalloped border on the pickets. Use a circular saw to cut the pickets to form the edge. If using a decorative add-on, reinforce it on the back side of the fence by adding a piece of 1 1/2-inch vinyl tubing across the middle of the add-ons.
9. Allow the fence boards to season, usually three to four months. Then paint with a glossy exterior enamel.
Tags: about inches, board about, board about inches, choice fencing, decorative add-ons, fence with, from post
http://www.morguefile.com/archive/display/75282 Photo courtesy of shebaduhkitty's Morguefile page
Rendering or seasoning cast iron is a very important step in order to extend the life of the cookware. This prevents rust and creates a good cooking surface. Old, rusty cast iron cookware can be rejuvenated by scouring off the rust with steal wool before you begin the rendering process. This process must be repeated several times throughout the life of the cookware. A well rendered skillet is black and shiny. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Instructions
1. Wash your skillet in hot, soapy water to remove any food or dust from the cast iron. Rinse well with warm water. Dry it with a towel.
2. Take solid vegetable shortening or cooking oil on a paper towel. Grease your skillet on the inside and outside. All cast iron surfaces need to be covered, including the handle. It does not take much. Do not use so much that it drips.
3. Place a baking sheet or some aluminum foil on the bottom rack of the oven in order to catch any grease drips. Grease drips could cause an oven fire.
4. Place cast iron skillet on top rack. Turn it upside down so the grease will not pool inside of the pan.
5. Bake for about one hour at 350 degrees F. Turn off the oven and let the pan cool before removing it.
6. Store in an area where moisture will not condense on the skillet's surface and cause rust.
Tags: cast iron, cast iron, life cookware, your skillet
All fences will be damaged in time by the weather.
No matter how strong a fence, wind and weather will weaken it over time. Redwood, cedar, or pressure-treated pine all stand up to the elements, but panels or planks may loosen during a storm. Wood preservatives or paint will be gradually worn away by the actions of the sun, rain, snow or ice. Fence posts may rot through after prolonged exposure to damp soil. All these problems can be solved by regular maintenance and repair, using the correct tools. Does this Spark an idea?
Shovel
This tool is used to dig holes for new fence posts. Choose a shovel with a round point, as the fence posts are never particularly wide and don't require a large breadth of soil to be removed to accommodate them. A pair of shovels is often useful to act as braces for fence posts after they've been set in concrete. Dig the shovels into the ground a foot or so from either side of the fence post. Angle the handles of the shovels to brace them against the post. This keeps the post upright until the concrete has hardened, when the shovels can be removed.
Iron Bar
A long, heavy iron bar with a chisel point at one end can be used to lever out or break up rocks and concrete when digging or clearing post holes. The opposite, flat end of the bar is useful for "tamping down" or compacting, gravel, soil or fresh concrete around a newly fixed fence post.
Post-Hole Digger
This tool has twin blades that are worked by two handles with a scissor action, to bite into the soil and remove a chunk of dirt. The digger is more efficient than a shovel, as it removes only as much soil as you need to fit in the post. This tool is often recommended for situations where you have a large number of post holes to dig. However, it's less useful on very stony soils, where the leverage of a shovel may be the better option.
Tape Measure
A retractable steel tape measure is useful for spacing fence posts---normally 6 feet to 8 feet apart---and for determining the correct depth of the post holes. Typically, one third of the length of a fence post should be below ground to provide enough support, so it is vital to measure this distance accurately.
Pliers
This tool is useful for removing nails, screws and other fixings from wood that needs to be replaced. Pliers are handy for tightening nuts onto retaining bolts when building a fence using concrete posts. Pliers can also be used for bending and cutting fencing wire.
Power Drill
A power drill with a range of bits of differing sizes is used to make pilot-holes for screws, bolts and other fixings. A cordless drill is well-suited to outdoor working.
Hammers
A sledgehammer may be needed to loosen a rotten fence post and break up any concrete around its base. A large claw hammer is useful for driving in waterproof nails to fix fence rails, planks and panels. The claw is helpful for levering out bent nails. A smaller, lighter hammer may also be required for fixings in hard-to-reach parts of the fence. For example, you'd use a lighter, smaller hammer when driving retaining clips into the narrow sides of a fence panel because the head of a larger hammer wouldn't fit.
Spirit Level
This tool is useful for checking whether posts are vertical and rails or battens are horizontal. Lay the spirit level against the side of a vertical post and check that the bubble lies in the center of tube at the top or bottom of the instrument. If it does, the post is vertical. To check a horizontal batten or rail, lay the spirit level along it and check if the bubble lies in the center of the tube in the middle of the instrument. If so, the batten or rail is level.
Paint Brush
A paint brush is used to renew a fence's protective surface, ideally once a year. Whether this finish is done with paint or a wood preservative, it's vital to keep it in good order, as it prevents rot from setting in and can save you from more expensive repairs.
Saw
A saw is useful for cutting replacement posts, planks, panels and fence rails to size. A short saw blade of around 1 foot to 1 1/2 feet is well-suited to fencing jobs, which may need to be carried out in confined places where a longer blade would be awkward to use.
Screwdriver
This tool is used to fit a range of fixings to a fence and to drive in screws to attach fence panels or planks to posts and rails.
Tags: This tool, fence post, fence posts, post holes, batten rail, bubble lies, bubble lies center
Decorating with metal accents in the home adds a new design element to your decor. Stainless steel, wrought iron, copper and aluminum are metals that can be twisted, shaped and painted into decorative accents. Vintage, contemporary, traditional, rustic and transitional design styles are enhanced with metal. Decor crafted from metal is not limited to wall accents. Metal furniture, appliances and stair rails pack a substantial design punch to any room. Does this Spark an idea?
Living Room
Metal wall decorations in the living room is economical while adding an impressive design texture to the room. Wall tiles, picture frames, mirrors, sculptures and sconces are available in an assortment of styles to suit any decor. Leather sofas and chairs accented with shiny metal arms and legs enhance the modern decor. Glass and metal accent tables, coffee tables and plant stands are useful and conversational pieces. Stair railings crafted with wood handrails and sculpted metal balusters are a design-savvy touch.
Kitchen
Shiny metal bowls filled with fresh limes, oranges or lemons are a decorative kitchen accent requiring little time and money. Metal tiles incorporated into a kitchen backsplash add a glint of excitement. Small metal appliances such as toasters, coffee makers, blenders or espresso machines are useful and decorative metal accents. Stainless refrigerators, ovens, microwaves and range hoods add instant modernization to your decor. Bar stools with metal accents, metal pendant lights and cabinet hardware are quick and easy decorative touches.
Bedroom
Metal pole rods with decorative finials in black, brown, white or bronze refresh tired curtains. Headboards and footboards crafted in metal bring focus to the bed and linens. Brushed nickel or shiny silver lamps are functional and modern. Scrolled metal lamp bases enhance the traditional decor. An embossed tin ceiling creates a grand room. Metal wall shelves enhance a contemporary ambiance.
Outdoor
Wrought iron patio tables and chairs are durable and weather resistant. A brightly colored table umbrella and chair pads are functional and complementary to the metal furniture. Switch out outdoor lights with shiny copper or metal styles to suit your decor. Metal garden arches laced with blooming flowers add a spark of elevated color to the outdoors. Metal benches provide a resting spot under a favorite tree, while a front porch metal bistro set invites you to sit for morning coffee.
Tags: metal accents, with metal, your decor, enhance contemporary, Metal wall, styles suit, with metal accents
Driftwood looks sculptural while remaining suitably rustic.
The mantel on a rustic pine fireplace calls for heavier, earthier accents than a period mantel with delicate carving. Your mantle arrangement, whether symmetrical or asymmetrical, should form roughly a triangular shape. You'll need a large piece to hang or prop above the mantel, freestanding vertical objects in varying heights and one long, low, horizontally shaped piece -- all with a suitably rustic feel. Does this Spark an idea?
Artwork and Frames
A ranch scene isn't your only artwork option for a rustic fireplace mantel. You can hang a landscape, abstract, primitive portrait, black and white photography or a pencil sketch. Choose one large piece, or hang a selection of smaller pieces in a tight grid or cluster. Visually, the grouping will serve as a single large piece. Choose frames that complement the rustic look of your fireplace. Frames made from reclaimed barn wood are always appropriate. You can also opt for twig frames or those made from distressed, painted wood. Dark-stained, antique frames with carved leaves and crossed corners look suitably earthy and contrast beautifully with pine. Avoid frames with gilt, silver or glossy wood finishes, as well as anything dainty.
Natural Accents
Mantel decorations taken from nature are ideal for rustic fireplaces. For your horizontal piece, lay a piece of driftwood or unmounted antlers on the mantel. The look is both rustic and sculptural. Alternately, arrange interesting rocks in a simple row, perhaps chunks of crystal or natural turquoise. You can also heap an oblong, hand-hewn wooden bowl with pine cones or seashells. Place a large, especially fine specimen of either under a bell jar and use it as a vertical accent. Other natural options include coral, abandoned birds' nests and geodes. Use them as is, or elevate them with chunky woodblock pedestals. You can also turn a large geode into a striking base for a mantel lamp.
Handcrafted Accents
Include handcrafted accessories on your fireplace mantel to add an artistic touch to your rustic room. For an asymmetrical fireplace arrangement, add a trio of hand-forged, wrought iron candlesticks of varying heights to one end of your mantel. Flank the mantel with a matching pair for a symmetrical look. You can also flank the mantel with handmade pottery vases, perhaps filled with curly willow or dogwood branches. Carvings made from wood, bone or stone also complement rustic decor.
Antique Accents
Add the mellow luster of antiquity to your mantel display with a handful of vintage objects. Consider an A-shaped mantel clock of quarter-sewn oak from the Arts & Crafts period. Stack a few old, leather-bound books horizontally, or stand them between a split geode made into bookends. Top an old wooden box with a chunky bronze or stone sculpture.
Tags: large piece, made from, mantel with, complement rustic, fireplace mantel, frames with, large piece hang
Inhabitants of early California missions developed southwestern furniture.
Southwestern style furniture has not changed much in the past 400 years, since its introduction into the Spanish missions of California. This furniture is solid, heavy and expensive-looking while having straight lines and a clean look. It was originally built when nails were in short supply in the west so the use of mortise-and-tenon joints is essential to the craft. Today's Southwestern furniture is made from pine, oak, poplar, cedar, whole logs and willows, often paired up with marble, tile, leather and copper. Once you master the techniques of mortise and tenon joints, you can easily move on to larger projects. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Coffee Table or Writing Desk Base
1. Select four logs for each table leg, about four to six inches in circumference. If you want to build a coffee table, these logs should be approximately 14 inches in height. For a desk, they should be around 31 inches in height.
2. Select four more logs, each about three inches in circumference and about 19 inches in length. Select 10 more logs, each about 1-1/2 to 2 inches in circumference and either 10 or 25 inches in height, depending on whether you're building a table or a desk.
3. Cut the ends of the four logs that are three inches in circumference with a hatchet, to form a pencil point about 1-1/2 to 2 inches in circumference. This is a tenon. Cut each end of the smaller logs in the same fashion.
4. Drill holes in the three-inch thick logs, to match up with the tenon ends that you've created on the smaller logs. Space five small logs evenly. Placing a three-inch log at the top and bottom, place 5 smaller logs into the mortise holes and glue together. This is one side rail of the table or desk. Build a duplicate for the other side.
5. Cut holes into the large logs that are the table legs, and slip the tenon ends of the side panels through the mortise holes.
6. Create tenon ends on logs to fit the length of the table or desk. Drill holes at the top of the legs and insert these logs into the mortise holes.
Build The Top
7. Cut lengths of pine, cedar or oak to length. Hand plane the top of each plank to create interesting texture.
8. Chisel holes in the sides of each plank, about 12 inches apart. Insert the carpenter's biscuit joints, using carpenter's glue to hold them in place. Run a bead of glue along each side of the plank and fit the biscuits into their corresponding holes. Clamp the planks together until they are dry.
9. Dry-fit the top to the legs and line it up so the top is centered. Mark the position on the underneath side of the table top. Place carpenter's glue at the top of each table leg and along each of the top rails. Place the top onto the glue, position it in place and weight it down until the glue dries.
Spindles in banister railings add appeal and safety.
Railings on stairs, balconies or porches in your home help family members to be safe and steady when using stairs or leaning on banisters. Properly spaced for safety, decorative spindles help to create a more stable railing, and add beauty and appeal to the look. To add spindles, you must first determine how many will be needed. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Determine how far apart you want to space the spindles. If you decide you want to space your spindles four inches apart, for example, measure the width of your spindle at its widest point. If the spindles are 1 inch wide, the space of the 4-inch gap plus the 1-inch width spindle equals a 5-inch space.
2. Measure the banister's lineal feet inside the banister. Lineal feet are defined as straight line measurements, directly from point A to B. If you have more than one banister in which spindles are being placed, measure each one separately, always from inside the banister railing.
3. Total up the measurements. If, for example, you have measured 12 feet and 6 inches on two different stair or porch railings, convert your measurements to inches my multiplying 12.5 feet times 12 (inches per foot), which equals 150 inches, minus 4, then divide by five. The initial subtraction of 4 inches is because there is a 4-inch distance from the post before spindle placement begins. This calculation allows for 29.20 spindles, so round up for 30 spindles per railing. You will need 60 spindles for both railings. The reason for dividing by five is to allow for 4 inches between each spindle, plus the 1-inch space taken for each spindle.
Tags: each spindle, inside banister, plus 1-inch, want space
Do you have a couple of bar stools that just don't fit with the rest of your house? Don't give up on them without a fight. Furniture can be painted and redesigned in endless ways. Bar stools are particularly flexible since the frames can be painted and the cushions reupholstered. Some new fabric and fresh paint can give you updated bar stools in one afternoon. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Repaint the Bar Stools
1. Move bar stools outside and place them on a drop cloth. Spray paint tends to travel and is not recommended for use in confined areas.
2. Remove the cushions from your bar stools. If the cushions are screwed on, turn the bar stool over and unscrew the seat cushion from the frame. If your bar stool has an upholstered back as well as an upholstered seat, cover the chair completely using low-tack and plastic tape.
3. Thoroughly clean your bar stools to remove grease and grime that will interfere with primer and paint.
4. Sand lightly using fine grit sandpaper.
5. Apply spray primer appropriate for your type of bar stool. Wood and metal primers are available in spray form from both Krylon and Rustoleum. Apply two to three coats of primer until the original finish of the stools is no longer visible. Allow the primer to dry completely.
6. Apply spray paint in your chosen finish. Spray paint can mimic metal finishes as well as painted wood. Apply two to three coats of paint and allow each coat to dry completely.
7. Brush or spray on a polyurethane topcoat to protect the finish. Bar stools receive a lot of wear and tear. A topcoat will make the finish more durable.
Recondition the Seats
8. Change the fabric on the seat cushion. For removable cushions, simply replace with seat cushions you purchase, then skip steps 2 and 3.
9. Recover the seat pad you unscrewed from the stool. Place the seat pad face down on your new fabric. Cut the fabric to extend 6 inches beyond the seat pad's perimeter. Using a staple gun, pull the fabric tightly around the edge of the cushion and staple every 2 inches.
10. Cover fully upholstered seats with a new slip cover. A dining chair slipcover, available in any home goods store, will work with your bar stools. If you prefer a more tailored look, your stools must be reupholstered by a professional.
Tags: your stools, Apply spray, Apply three, Apply three coats, finish stools, seat cushion, Spray paint
Using an ultraviolet lamp Uvl-21 is a technique you can use to test antiques for authenticity. An ultraviolet lamp, or black light, produces ultraviolet (UV) light. Many items fluoresce when placed under an ultraviolet light and show colors or light that cannot be seen by the naked eye. Using an ultraviolet lamp to detect fakes and repairs should not be the only way you do antique authenticating, but it is a good place to start.
Instructions
1. Authenticate artwork using a florescent light. Turn off the lights and hold the ultraviolet lamp near the artwork. Modern paint will fluoresce under an ultraviolet light. This allows you to easily see any touch-ups or repairs that have been done to a painting. You can also see hairline cracks in oil paintings under a black light.
2. Check green Depression and Vaseline glass by placing an ultraviolet lamp under it. This type of glass will glow under the black light because of the uranium oxide content in the glass. If it does not glow, the glass is not authentic. This also allows you to see any cracks in the glass, and can tell you whether these cracks have been repaired. American colorless press glass made before 1930 is known to be florescent yellow, whereas reproductions are not. American brilliant cut glass has a yellow hue when under a black light. It is also known to glow blue or pale violet.
3. Check the authenticity of porcelain using an ultraviolet light. Take the porcelain into a dark room. If the porcelain has been repaired, the glue will fluoresce when placed under the black light. Modern paints also glow under the ultraviolet light. This allows you to see whether any repaints, touch-ups or embellishments have been done. Hard paste porcelain pieces fluoresce a deep purple or blue color, whereas soft paste fluoresces white.
4. Authenticate fabric and textiles using an ultraviolet light. Most modern fibers, such as rayon or polyester, fluoresce under a black light. This can help while dating vintage clothing, rag dolls, quilts and other items made from cloth. Additives in laundry detergents can cause older fabrics to glow under the black light.
5. Authenticate cast iron. Many items from the 1900s were made from cast iron. Genuine cast iron items with original paint are still valuable to collectors. Most modern paints fluoresce under a black light. If the cast iron has not been tampered with, repainted or repaired, it will not glow under an ultraviolet light.
Tags: black light, ultraviolet light, under black, under black light, ultraviolet lamp
Luigi glassware is manufactured in Italy, Germany, Turkey and China.
The private wholesale glassware company Luigi Bormioli's glasses, pitchers, and bowls can be found in retail stores in the United States and Canada. The majority of the company's lead-free glassware is manufactured in Parma, Italy, while other glassware is made in Germany, Turkey, and China. Luigi Bormioli produces a variety of styles to suit different glassware preferences and needs. Does this Spark an idea?
Alfieri Collection
The Alfieri collection was named after Italian playwright and poet Vittorio Alfieri. The beverage and double old fashioned glasses of this collection have thick, square-shaped bottoms that are cut to catch the light and reflect it through your drink. According to the Luigi Bormioli website, the Alfieri collection "seems the perfect choice for before-theater cocktails."
Crescendo Collection
The Crescendo collection is named after a musical term referring to the continuing swelling of volume. The collection offers a variety of such gently rounded wine glasses as flutes, chardonnay, Bordeaux, and Bourgogne glasses, as well as martini glasses, double old fashioned glasses and decanters. Formulated to guard against chipping and staining, Crescendo glassware also comes with a 25-year guarantee.
Green Collection
The name of the Green collection refers to both the green color of the glass and the fact that it's created from 100 percent recycled glassware. Within this collection, you can purchase large and small tumblers, goblets, pitchers, oval-shaped bowls for chips and dip, and three-section divided bowls, ideal for entertaining.
Magnifico Collection
The large bowls and long stems of the wine glasses in the Magnifico collection give you the look and elegance of crystal. Though identical in style, the wine glasses are available in five different sizes, beginning with a small wine glass and upgrading to an extra, extra large wine glass. You can also purchase flutes and thumb decanters from this collection.
Tuscan Collection
The Tuscan collection consists of a seven-piece shooter set, a five-piece martini piece set, and a four-piece bowls set, all accompanied by a black metal carrier. With their striking wrought-iron stands, these glassware sets serve dual purposes---serving your guests beverages and appetizers, and looking stunning on display when not in use.
Tags: Luigi Bormioli, this collection, wine glasses, Alfieri collection, collection named
If you enjoy having wine in your home but do not know the best way to store or display your wine, rest assured. Whether you have a whole home bar at your disposal or barely enough space to fit a few wine bottles, there are a variety of options to suit your needs. Wine racks come in a nearly endless array of styles and sizes that will suit your kitchen, dining room, cellar or bar. Does this Spark an idea?
Decorative Wine Racks
If you have plenty of room and counter space in your home bar or kitchen,a decorative counter wine rack can be a fun and easy way to store and display a few bottles at once. You can purchase a simple wrought iron rack that houses six bottles, three on top and three on bottom. Or for a little more flair, search for a tree-like rack in which bottles rest upside-down in spiraled wrought iron. If you are lacking counter space, a variety of hanging wine racks are available. These sport a cool modern look while being functional.
Wall Racks
If space is a problem and you need to keep several bottles easily available, use a vertical wall wine rack. Racks like these attach to the wall and often come with spaces for nine bottles or more. Bottles lay horizontally, keeping them easily accessible and well-displayed without taking up any of your precious space. If you have large quantities of wine, buy several of these racks and hang them side by side, creating a small vineyard right in your kitchen. These racks display wine beautifully and use the smallest amount of space.
Table with Wine Rack
If you do not have a separate bar, create a space in your kitchen that serves as both a bar and wine storage area. There are a variety of tables available for this purpose. Choose a table that is counter height, so the surface can be used for making drinks or even as an extension of the kitchen counter. Below you can make as many levels of wine storage as you desire. This style provides easy access to your wine while creating a space for a home bar and serving area.
Tags: your kitchen, counter space, space your, store display, suit your
Strong hinges are critical to secure heavy gates to posts or columns.
Well-planned wide gates make a bold statement about property boundaries at an entrance or exit. These gates create an official line of demarcation concerning visitors, but they can look visually appealing and inviting as well. Metal or wooden gates with an image from nature, such as outlines of horses or trees, will look appropriate for ranch gates. Strong materials that will withstand a lot of use are critical, however. Wide gates create more stress on framework and hinges. Ranch gates should last for many years with basic upkeep, if good materials are used initially. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure the gate space. Leave room for columns or posts on either side. Plan to use double gates that are each 4 to 8 feet wide with a locking system in the middle where the gates meet.
2. Sketch the ideal gate system for visual appeal. Use a symbol from the ranch or farm, if you like, on each gate. Create metal framework and add wooden images cut from cedar, for example. Ask a metal specialist to help create a special design with scroll work or family initials as another option.
3. Plan the posts or columns. Build block columns of concrete blocks or cinder blocks covered with stucco or bricks, for instance. Use heavy-duty round or square metal posts sunk into 3 feet of concrete as another option. Don't use wooden posts, because wood will not sustain gate hardware over time like metal or concrete structures.
4. Buy hardware to support the gate. Install an in-ground metal socket where the gates meet. Use this socket to receive a gate drop-down bar to keep the gates closed when desired. Add a heavy duty locking system or automatic key-less lock, if needed.
5. Add special safety features for overseeing protection. Install a camera near the gate in a tree, for example, to watch for unwelcome visitors. Add a speaker system to talk from the house or another building to those desiring entry at the gate. Use motion detector lights or alarms to enhance the security further, if desired.
Tags: another option, gates create, gates meet, locking system, posts columns, where gates
Baseballs make fun bedpost finials for a sports-themed room.
Give an old iron bed renewed life with a new set of finials. Those ornate knobs that adorn the posts of iron beds are often the first casualties of pillow fights or moving day. With a little imagination and ingenuity, you can replace finials, but think about ditching the ho-hum plain one for an ornate or whimsical one to make add to the bed's decor. If you are not particularly concerned about authenticity, consider decorative curtain rod finials, wooden toys, toy blocks, baseballs, drawer pulls or just about anything that strikes your fancy. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Spray paint your bed frame for a fresh look.
Spray paint the bed frame in the color of your choice if the finish is worn or you want a new look. Prepare it first by sanding or filing sharp-edged nicks. Measure the diameter of the bedposts and purchase four PVC end caps to fit. Test the fit by pushing the cap 1/2 inch onto the bedpost. Remove the cap.
2. Mark the exact center of the end caps. Drill a hole just large enough for the machine end of the screw to fit through. Spray paint the caps to match the bed posts. Allow caps to dry completely.
3. Prepare the finial by drilling a small pilot hole and inserting the wood screw end of the double-ended screw. Screw it in until the finial is at the edge of the machine screw threads. Pliers help here, or put a nut on the other end and use the crescent wrench as a handle.
4. Secure the finial to the end cap using washers and nuts. You may need to add more washers for a snug fit. If they will show, spray paint the washers before attaching them.
5. Skip the epoxy or glue if the caps will fit tightly without it; otherwise, mix and apply epoxy as directed on package. Slip the caps over the bedposts. Use a hammer and a small block of wood wrapped in a towel to tap it firmly into place. Immediately wipe off any excess epoxy. Step back and admire your handiwork quickly before they inevitably turn into a place to hang clothes.
Because of your budget or your floor space, a bed may have to forgo a real headboard. Use one of these decorating tricks to achieve the same effect as a headboard. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Hang a divided-light window (minus the glass) or porch gingerbread or other architectural fragment above the bed. Old millwork with peeling paint can be the most interesting.
2. Attach a section of fence or a gate to the wall behind the bed. Picket and wrought-iron fencing are top options.
3. Mount a heavy-duty cafe-curtain rod on the wall and suspend cushions or pillows in shams from cafe rings. Determine the rod height carefully so you don't bump a head or shoulder on the rod if you're a bedtime reader.
4. Paint the wall with a trompe l'oeil headboard. This doesn't have to be elaborate, just an iron-bedstead headboard or a stenciled design, perhaps a wicker or fluted-column look.
5. Mount three strips of molding (two vertical pieces at the edges of the bed plus a horizontal piece the width of the bed) on the wall above the bed in an inverted U-shape. Miter the corners picture-frame style and paint them and the enclosed wall area (which should extend down below the mattress) in a color that contrasts with the rest of the wall.
6. Paint a rectangle of wall above the bed (extended down below the mattress) in a color that contrasts with the rest of the wall and edge it with a mitered wallpaper border. You might want a second row of the border in your headboard; place it below and parallel to the top horizontal piece of the border.
7. Hang a textile on the wall. This could be a quilt, small rug, tapestry or pretty tablecloth suspended from a curtain rod.
8. Make a rod pocket in the top and bottom edges of fabric (about 2 1/2 times as wide as the bed) and shirr it onto two slender brass curtain rods that fit the width of the bed. Mount the top rod on the wall above the bed; you don't have to mount the bottom rod if you don't want to because its weight will keep the fabric against the wall.
9. Put a large pleated fan on the wall above the headboard. Asian import shops sometimes sell large decorative fans, or you can make your own by fan-folding wallpaper and holding the folds in place with a staple, brad or similar fastener.
Tags: wall above, below mattress, below mattress color, color that, color that contrasts, contrasts with
Strong chemicals can strip paint from wrought iron.
Wrought iron railings provide an air of sophistication and style to porches, decks, balconies and other areas of our home. These railings are often exposed to the elements. While the iron itself can easily withstand the test of time, the paints and finishes often used on the surface can't. If the paint or finish on your wrought iron railing is ruining your home's aesthetic, remove the surface by using chemical strippers.
Instructions
1. Hang protective plastic sheeting over all areas surrounding the wrought iron fence, including the ground. The harsh chemicals used to strip the iron can harm plants and stain other surfaces.
2. Wear protective gloves and goggles when working with strong chemical paint strippers. If you are working indoors, ventilate the area or wear a respirator.
3. Scrape the area with a wire brush to remove any loosened or peeling paint. Remove as much paint or finish as you can.
4. Apply chemical paint stripper designed for metal to the surface with a paint brush. Follow specific product instructions regarding working time. Some products may also recommend you cover the area with plastic wrap to allow the stripper to sink deeper into the metal.
5. Scrape at the stripped area with the wire brush to remove loosened paint. Reapply and scrape stripped as necessary to remove all old paint and finish.
6. Clean the entire railing with a rag dampened in mineral spirits to remove residual stripper. Don't let the stripper remain on the railing, as it can be hazardous to plants and animals.
Tags: area with, paint finish, area with wire, brush remove, brush remove loosened, chemical paint, remove loosened
Tribal masks provide elegant wall decoration for African-themed rooms.
Ethnic décor uses inspiration from a single group, or assorted groups, of people that share a common and distinctive culture. Ethnic decorating can use items from a general ethnic group, such as African, or a specific ethnic group, such as Nigerian. Stick with one ethnic theme or mix several themes to create an eclectic design. Does this Spark an idea?
African Dining Room
Bring a wild and exotic feel to a dining room with an ethnic decorating style inspired by African cultures. Sand-colored sandstone tiles on the floor and light cream-painted walls provide a warm and earthy base to the room. Dark wood chairs with zebra-print cushions and a dark wood table with a leopard-print scarf draped across the middle of the tabletop provide a wild accent.
Wood-carved tribal masks, framed mud-cloth paintings and hand-woven baskets provide traditional wall decorations. Thin woven-reed blinds hanging from dark wood curtain rods add subtle texture around windows. A hand-carved, painted wood leopard sculpture creates a centerpiece on the middle of the scarf-decorated table. A leopard print-painted wood shelf displays decorated dried gourd bowls that can store napkins and place mats.
Mixed Italian Kitchen
Combine Tuscan and Venetian styles to create a kitchen with an eclectic Italian design. Latte-colored Venetian plaster walls, which consist of a colored base coat covered with tinted plaster that is sanded and polished, add rich texture to the kitchen. Dark terra-cotta tile floors, rustic light wood cabinets and blue tile countertops provide basic bold colors. A blue tile-trimmed, food-themed, tile mural backsplash adds a distinct Tuscan accent.
Pay homage to both Tuscan and Venetian themes with kitchen appliances in warm hues, such as gold or cream. Dark blue appliances work as well, although they may look overwhelming if placed on the blue countertops. Hand-painted bowls and copper pots provide rich decorations for shelves, walls or counters. Cut-glass Venetian vases filled with wildflowers create a Venetian-based and Tuscan-topped decoration for a table or counter.
Moroccan Sitting Room
Use a rich Moroccan theme to create a colorful ethnic sitting room. Terra-cotta tiled floors, floral-patterned wood trim and amber plaster walls with blue-and-white tile wainscoting provide an intricate background for the design. A large, colorful, mosaic-patterned Persian rug creates a large carpeted area in the middle of the room. Hand-carved dark wood couch and chair frames covered with cobalt blue silk upholstery and assorted patterned pillows add a traditional Moroccan touch.
A wood-framed coffee table with mosaic tile top and twisted, round, black wrought iron end tables provide sturdy areas for old-fashioned lamps and hand-painted pottery. Large and leafy plants in round tiled, silver or bronze pots help bring the rich Morocco environment into the room. Antique mirrors in intricate, angular, tooled metal frames create classic Moroccan wall decorations.
Tags: covered with, dark wood, ethnic group, ethnic group such, group such, plaster walls, table with
Aluminum stair railings can be fabricated into many unusual designs.
Decorative aluminum stair railings give any house a look of luxury and style. Metal stair rails are attractive, durable and can be fabricated to fit into any home design style. Aluminum stair rails add both safety and beauty to your home for both the exterior and interior staircases. Kits for do-it-yourself projects are available, or you can consult with local aluminum railing fabricators for specially designed railings for your property. Does this Spark an idea?
Advantages of Aluminum Stair Railings
Aluminum offers many advantages in railing systems for the home. Aluminum is a strong material that is also light in weight which makes it easier to install. Aluminum does not rust or corrode, which makes for less time and money spent on maintenance over time. Aluminum is also very flexible and weldable, which allows it to be worked into many different designs and fabricated into any shape required. You can also give aluminum railings a wide variety of attractive finishes to match any home design or d cor. These qualities make aluminum stair railing a logical choice for today's residential staircase needs.
Disadvantages of Aluminum Stair Railings
Though aluminum stair railings will never rust, the material does oxidize in moist environments, which is a natural chemical process that creates a white film over the surface of the aluminum. This can be prevented with special finishing techniques such as powder coating which bakes on the painted coating for a long-lasting, durable color finish.
Aluminum Railing Designs
Do-it-yourself aluminum stair railing kits generally come in very simple designs that provide the substantial look of metal railings without the high cost. Custom metal fabricators can design railings specifically for your needs, however, with ornate, classical scroll work, simple mission styling or sleek, modern-style railings. Your imagination is the only limit on what you can do with aluminum stair railings. Railings can be installed along only one side of the staircase, with a wall-attached railing on the other side of the stairs or with a rail down the center of wide staircases.
Aluminum Railing Finishes
Aluminum does not hold paint as easily as steel holds paint. To apply standard paint to aluminum, you must use special processes, such as the use of an "etching" primer to allow the paint to hold onto the surface of the aluminum. Special industrial finishing techniques, such as anodizing, create an oxide coating by immersing the aluminum in an acid electrolyte bath and passing an electric current through the solution, which creates a protective, metallic finish that can also have color. It is fully integrated into the substrate of the aluminum and cannot flake or chip, according to the Anodizing website. Powder coating is frequently used to apply finishes to aluminum railings. Special powdered paints are electrostatically charged and sprayed onto the surface of the aluminum. The finish is then baked on at temperatures between 160 to 210 degrees Fahrenheit. The finish will not peel, chip or crack like ordinary paint finishes. Powder coat finishes come in a wide variety of colors and textures.