Glue Cast Iron Together

Epoxy resin glues are useful in repairing cast iron

Repairing cast iron can be challenging because there are several different types of cast iron, each with different chemical make-up. The most effective method of repairing cast iron is through a welding process that heats the metal slowly to a temperature between 600 and 1,200 degrees F, then welds the pieces together with the form of welding appropriate for the type of cast iron, and then slowly cools it. This can be expensive and time consuming. Although some have had success with "super glue," the most effective glue repairs that do not need to withstand very high heat or stress are epoxies that are made for bonding metal to metal. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Steps to Gluing Cast Iron

1. Put on protective glasses and gloves.

2. Remove all rust, paint, dirt and grease. These will prevent a solid bond with the metal of each piece. Begin with wire brushing and hand scraping. Sand blasting and flame cleaning can be used for difficult areas. Acetone or lacquer thinner is best to use as a surface cleaner. Soap and water is acceptable if acetone or lacquer thinner are not available, however; make sure they are completely dry before continuing.

3. Mix equal amounts of resin and hardener on a piece of cardboard with a spreading tool to suit the project. Spread the mixture onto the ends of the pieces that are to be joined or fill in the crack needing repairing.

4. Apply slight pressure to hold the joint together for the curing time. Rubber bands, clamps or a fixture of your own making will be needed to hold the pieces in place and providing constant pressure.

5. Let the project stand for a period of 24 hours to cure. After the epoxy has cured, it can be drilled, tapped and machined like metal. It is resistant to petroleum, chemicals and acids and is waterproof. It can also withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees F.

Tags: cast iron, cast iron, lacquer thinner, most effective, repairing cast iron

Make Flower Arches

Add flowers to dress up wedding arches.

Add life and color to a simple wrought-iron or wooden arch by adding flowers, greenery and lights. Make the arch the focal point of your ceremony as a cascading backdrop to use when saying your vows. Use the same flowers as your bridal bouquet or stick to classic white. Add flowing tulle fabric for a more romantic look. Use fresh flowers for short ceremonies or silk flowers if they need to last more than a few hours.

Instructions

1. Attach long pieces of greenery, such as ivy or springeri fern, to the arch by twisting florist wire or green pipe cleaners around the stems and the arch supports. Cover the front edge of the arch.

2. Cut your flower stems to 3 to 4 inches. Weave the stems in with your greenery, securing them with florist wire or pipe cleaners as necessary. For flowers that wilt easily, such as roses, push water picks onto the ends to extend their life.

3. Lay clear holiday lights over the top of the arch, behind the flowers and greenery, and drape them down the sides. Add several rows of lights. Secure them with florist wire or pipe cleaners.

4. Lay tulle fabric over the lights, gathering it and attaching the gathers to the arch using pipe cleaners that match the fabric. Allow the ends to flow freely in the breeze or secure them to the bottom of the arch, as desired.

Tags: pipe cleaners, florist wire, florist wire pipe, flowers greenery, them with, them with florist, tulle fabric

Remove The Rollers From A Metal Bed Frame

Rollers on beds can be replaced with posts.

If you want to install risers or posts on your bed you will need to first remove the existing rollers from the metal bed frame. The rollers on a metal bed frame are a type of caster, with a pin that is inserted into a socket on the bottom of the frame. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the comforter, including any blankets, and take the sheets off the bed.

2. Take the mattress off the box spring and set it up against a wall.

3. Lift the box spring out of the metal bed frame and lay it against a wall. Pull the metal bed frame out from against the wall.

4. Remove the screws that are used to secure the headboard to the frame with the screwdriver. Pull the metal bed frame away from the headboard; set the frame on its side.

5. Strike the back side of the roller with a hammer to force the socket out of the frame.

6. Pry the socket off the roller with a screwdriver and pull off the socket. Place the socket back in the metal frame.

7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for the roller on the other end of the frame.

8. Turn the metal bed frame over and repeat this process to remove the rollers on the other side of the frame.

Tags: metal frame, against wall, headboard frame, Pull metal, Pull metal frame, roller with

Cruise Parking In New Orleans Hotels

New Orleans, Louisiana is home to the famous annual Mardi Gras.

New Orleans, Louisiana is best known for its French Quarter, authentic Cajun cuisine and the annual Mardi Gras festival. New Orleans is also home to a cruise port, making vacationing to exotic places more convenient. Many hotels in the city offer cruise parking when an overnight accommodation is made before or after the cruise.

New Orleans Marriott at the Convention Center

The New Orleans Marriott at the Convention Center offers 320 smoke-free guestrooms as well as 11 suites. Room amenities include luxury bedding, flat-screen TVs and wired and wireless Internet. The hotel offers a free daily newspaper in the lobby, as well as over 24,000 square feet of meeting space spread across 19 rooms. The on-site restaurant offers authentic local cuisine and can be called for room service during select hours. The hotel is located in the Arts District near numerous day spas, and is within walking distance of the French Quarter. The New Orleans Marriott at the Convention Center offers pre-cruise packages with long-term parking options available.

New Orleans Marriott at the Convention Center

859 Convention Center Blvd.

New Orleans, LA 70130

504-613-2888

marriott.com

Ambassador Hotel

The historic Ambassador Hotel, located four blocks from the French Quarter in New Orleans, offers 165 guestrooms that feature wrought iron four-poster beds. Many rooms provide a view of the downtown Arts District, and come equipped with an in-room safe, oversized writing desk and wireless high-speed Internet access. A free continental breakfast is served daily, and the hotel is home to an on-site restaurant and lounge, which offers room service. The hotel provides in-room spa services and offers a fitness center for guest use. Meeting space is available, as well as a fully equipped business center. The Ambassador Hotel offers complimentary valet parking to accommodate cruise guests.

Ambassador Hotel

535 Tchoupitoulas St.

New Orleans, LA 70130

800-455-3417

ambassadorhotelneworleans.com

Drury Inn

The Drury Inn in downtown New Orleans offers guestrooms equipped with wireless Internet access, a microwave and refrigerator and cable TV. Families will enjoy the rooftop swimming pool as well as the 5:30 Kickback, which offers complimentary food and beverages. In the afternoon hours, popcorn and soda is served continuously. The hotel offers a same-day dry cleaning option, and meeting rooms are available for business travelers. An exercise room is available for guest use on-site. In the morning, guests can enjoy a hot breakfast that features waffles, biscuits and gravy and eggs and sausage. The Drury Inn offers long-term cruise parking for a nominal fee.

Drury Inn

820 Poydras St.

New Orleans, LA 70112

504-529-7800

druryhotels.com

Tags: Convention Center, Ambassador Hotel, Marriott Convention, Marriott Convention Center, Orleans Marriott, Orleans Marriott Convention, French Quarter

Mediterranean Wall Decor

Mediterranean wall elements make for stylish decor.

Mediterranean-style homes are often inviting due to their warm color palette, rich fabrics and rustic accessories. Highlighting the cultures of France, Greece, Spain and Italy, it's a style that creates a feeling of casual elegance. One way to amplify the Mediterranean decor in a space is to add appropriate wall accents, ranging from wrought-iron pieces to earthy tapestries. The result is a home with relaxed, Old World charm and stylish Mediterranean flair. Does this Spark an idea?

Mediterranean-Style Paintings

Accent the walls in a Mediterranean-inspired room by hanging a large painting that depicts the countryside of Spain, France, Greece or Italy. Choose paintings in rustic, wooden frames, and include a picture light over the art for optimal viewing during the day and night. Place the artwork at a focal point, such as above a couch, fireplace or sideboard, to not only amplify the Mediterranean design but add texture and color to the entire decorating scheme.

Rustic Mirrors

Create a space that's full of Old World charm by including a wall mirror. Rustic wood frames with a combination of curly and heavy wrought-iron accents give the mirror an authentic Mediterranean appearance. Mirrors make interiors appear larger than their square footage indicates, and they reflect light in dim spaces, making them a must-have decorating tool for any design.

Elegant Tapestries

Adding an elegant tapestry accentuates the Mediterranean theme and creates an area of visual interest. Tapestries that depict colorful flowers or traditional countryside scenes are appropriate for this style. Hanging the tapestry from a wrought-iron rod adds an additional element of rustic charm.

Wrought-Iron Grills

To further the earthy look and feel of a Mediterranean space, add a wrought-iron grill over a doorway to accentuate the height of the entrance. Hang a wall grill on either side of a mirror to enlarge its visual impact. Highlight the entire room with a large wrought-iron grill on the wall above the fireplace as a focal point with optimal visual appeal, and to serve as a perfect crowning touch to a Mediterranean-style space.

Tags: amplify Mediterranean, focal point, France Greece, from wrought-iron, World charm, wrought-iron grill

Make An Easy Padded Headboard

Add personality to your bed by creating an easy padded headboard that hangs on the wall from a curtain rod. This project is easy to make and can easily be changed out for holidays or the seasons. There is no woodworking involved and the closest you'll come to carpentry tools is the tools used to install the brackets for the curtain rod. Choose from a range of decorator fabrics or pick a flat bed sheet that matches your bed linens. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the width of your bed for the length of your headboard. Trace the length of the headboard by 24 inches for the height, on the foam, using the permanent marker.

2. Cut the foam using the electric carving knife.

3. Add 2 inches to the length and width measurement of the headboard. Cut two pieces of fabric using these measurements.

4. Cut six pieces of the ribbon into 18-inch lengths.

5. Place one piece of headboard fabric right side up on your work surface. Fold the ribbons in half. Pin the fold of the ribbons along one long length of the headboard fabric. Space the ribbons evenly and 4 inches from the end.

6. Place the other piece of headboard fabric face down on the first. Pin the layers together. Sew a half inch seam allowance on both short ends and the long side containing the pinned ribbon. Leave the other long side open.

7. Press the seams open. Match the top seam to one side seam to form a point and pin. Measure a 3 inch width across the point and sew. Repeat for the opposite point. Cut off the excess from the points. This will make a boxed corner.

8. Turn the headboard case right side out. Insert the foam piece into the case. Position the corners of the foam neatly into the corners of the headboard case.

9. Turn the raw edges of the headboard case under and pin. Fold the corners like a present and pin. Sew the bottom seam closed.

10. Measure the placement on the wall for the easy padded headboard. Center the headboard on the wall at the head of the bed. Place the headboard 2 inches above the bed. Measure above the top edge of the headboard 4 inches. Attach the curtain rod brackets at this measurement.

11. Tie each ribbon into a bow with a 4-inch hanging loop. Insert the curtain rod through the loops and hang the rod on the brackets.

Tags: headboard case, headboard fabric, headboard inches, easy padded, foam using, length headboard

Apply Rustoleum Hammered Paint

Want to add a sophisticated hammered metal finish to light fixtures, porch railings, outdoor tables and home decor items with the push of a button? Pick up a can of Rust-Oleum brand hammered spray paint. With Rust-Oleum, there is little need to prepare the surface for paint (though a primer may be helpful in some situations). The paint itself will hide any surface imperfections because of its textured finish. While the name implies it should be used on metal, the paint gives equally good results on wood, fiberglass, concrete and masonry.

Instructions

1. Remove loose paint and oxidation with sandpaper or a wire brush. If the surface already has a glossy finish, rough it up with sandpaper.

2. Prime the surface with Stops Rust spray primer by Rust-Oleum if needed. The primer coat will help resist rust even more and will help bond the paint to the surface even better.

3. Shake the can forcefully for at least one minute after the mixing ball begins to move around. Hold the can 12 inches from the surface for the greatest coverage and finish quality. Move the can from side to side. Overlap each stroke 1 to 2 inches to blend the strokes. The surface must be sufficiently covered to provide the highest amount of protection. Apply multiple coats for the best coverage.

4. Allow the first paint coat to dry for at last one hour between coats. Subsequent coats should be applied within 48 hours of the previous coat.

5. Turn the can upside down and spray to clear the nozzle if the can was not emptied completely. Clean-up can be performed with Xylol or mineral spirits and a cloth rag.

Tags: will help, with sandpaper

Garden Sculpture Yard Art Ideas

If you're looking for ideas for garden art and yard sculptures then you're in luck. There are so many things you can do to make yard art with reused items, like bed frames and bicycles. You can also make yard art, if you learned paper mache in kindergarten, then you can sculpt some giant eggs to display in a whimsical nest. Finally, you can decide whether or not you want your art to be a focal point, for gazing in contemplative thought, or if you want it hidden, nestled amongst the foliage. Does this Spark an idea?

Recycled Garden Art

You can reuse and recycle a number of items for yard art. Sure, we've all seen the toilet being used as a planter, the bed frame being used as a flower bed, but have you seed the window frame suspended from a tree, framing the beautiful view? You can reuse an old wrought-iron gate as a freestanding trellis, an old bicycle can be leaned upon a tree and used as art, especially when you let the sweet peas climb up the spokes. Finally, scrap items can be used to create yard art sculptures, like glass teacups and saucers mounted on a rod for light-catching flower stakes, or a pair of old boots with flower growing out of the top.

Lay a Giant Nest of Eggs

Using a paper mache technique, you can craft a giant nest with eggs in it. Create a few eggs first. Use giant balloons or sacrifice a few beach balls. For a perfect oval-egg shape, create a sphere first, then create the smaller, rounded end in addition by using a smaller ball. Wrap them in plaster-cast strips and allow them to dry. Use drywall mud to smooth out the exterior, going over it with water when it's almost dry. Sand to smooth, and then paint with exterior paint for sturdy, lightweight, giant eggs in a nest of branches and yard clippings.

Make your Sculpture a Focal Point

If you're looking for ideas about use your garden sculpture, consider using it as a focal point. Place a bench or porch swing on one side of the garden and your yard art sculpture on the other. Decide if you want it partially hidden by the foliage or standing alone. You can use paving stones to prevent heavier pieces from sinking into the soil.

Tags: being used, focal point, giant eggs, looking ideas, make yard, paper mache

Recycle Ground Iron Slag

Iron is a byproduct of the steel industry, and is created by a fusion of ash, limestone and other fluxes which are added to iron. By recycling ground iron slag, you ensure that less waste arrives at the local landfills, and this benefits the environment.

Instructions

1. Use ground iron slag to supplement Portland cement. By recycling ground iron slag in this manner, the quality of the Portland cement is enhanced.

2. Substitute the ground iron ore for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) when producing concrete. Recycling ground iron ore by using it as a binder system proves to work as well as OPC.

3. Raise the pH of ground iron slag to 14 by treating it with alkali which will allow more silica to solubilize. Recycle the iron ground slag by mixing it with materials and also silica gels and reacting it with alkaline silicic compounds. Allow this mixture to cure, and turn into hard, rock-like materials, which can by recycled by burning it in a steel furnace. This process produces non-polluting slag and iron.

4. Recycle ground iron slag by using it for road surfacing, conditioning the soil, draining sports fields, sandblasting as grit and in the treatment of water as a media for filtering.

Tags: ground iron, iron slag, ground iron slag, ground iron slag, Portland cement

Use Folding Bistro Tables Indoors

Evoke the look of Paris bistros or Italian street side cafes by using folding bistro tables in your interior decor. Folding bistro tables provide an ideal small-space solution that simply flatten to a few inches when not in use. You can also use them year-round as permanent fixtures in your home. Decorating with bistro tables can invigorate a forgotten corner with a signature style. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select a style of folding bistro table that suits your needs. Classic French bistro tables feature solid steel construction, round tops and skinny legs. Many designers have modified the traditional look, so you can choose from rectangular, square or oval tables. Pedestal-style supports, teak surfaces and wrought iron frames are other options.

2. Study your floor plan to determine which spaces benefit most from folding French bistro tables. Space is required for the table and for people to comfortably sit around it and slide their chairs in and out. A nearby window or other source of light makes the space more charming for sitting, eating and drinking, but avoid placing the table in strong, direct sunlight.

3. Protect your floor. Metal bistro supports are unkind to soft wood floors, hand-painted tile and plush rugs. Protect the area where you set your bistro table and chairs by covering it with floor finishes like a bamboo mat, modular carpet tile or sturdy tile flooring. You can also place rubber tips directly on the metal feet of tables and chairs.

4. Create atmospheric surroundings for your French bistro decor. Simple wooden or metal cafe-style chairs keep the look casual. You can add cushions with fleur de lis symbols, stripes, faded florals or toile for a charming French country look. Hang a large chalkboard nearby for posting specials of the day or grocery lists. Paint a wall in a bistro-inspired shade such as stone gray or jaunty royal blue. Decorate your table or a nearby cart with espresso cups, a French press, bags of coffee beans, wine glasses and wine bottles. Keep a stack of French linens nearby, rolled in baskets or buckets.

5. Illuminate the area around your folding bistro table. A chandelier or a pendant light adds sculptural style overhead, while wrought iron holders with pillar candles provide mood lighting.

Tags: bistro table, bistro tables, folding bistro, French bistro, bistro tables

Design A Tuscan Garden

Tree placement is important when designing a Tuscan garden.

Whether you've been to Italy and want to bring some of your vacation home, or you've always enjoyed the look of Tuscan gardens, you can design such a garden and incorporate all the aspects that make the gardens of Tuscany unique. Tuscan gardens reflect the past with a look and feel of gardens that have been around for centuries. Take your time when you're planning the design and when you're researching which plants, trees and structural elements to use. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the size of the yard or garden space you want to work with. An entire yard will obviously be more labor intensive and costly than creating a simple Mediterranean patio area. Once you have your measurements, chart the outline of the garden on the graph paper using each square to represent either 1 foot or 6 inches of space.

2. Focus on existing structures. Measure and add in any walls, fences, trellises or arbors that may already exist in the garden. Grapes or wisteria may grow nicely on an unused trellis, while a climbing rose may be suitable to run along a fence. If necessary, and depending on color, you may want to repaint any exterior surfaces a smooth terra cotta, grey or beige before planting anything around them.

3. Plan hard landscaping items first, such as fountains, trees and walkways. The gardens of Tuscany are known for flagstone pathways, often forming symmetrical patterns framed by hedges. A fountain placed in the center of a walkway can add visual interest and, being a vessel for water, represents life in the garden. Large urns can take the place of fountains, if you choose.

4. Keep the planning of trees to scale, using smaller trees for a smaller garden and larger trees for vast garden space. Evergreens give the feel of a Tuscan garden year-round. Position trees to allow some open areas as well as to create a few shaded retreats within the garden. Citrus and olive trees might be considered, depending on your locality and growing zone.

5. Insert hedges, large or small, to follow the paths or to line the boundaries of the garden space. Often lavender, boxwoods or rosemary are used to create natural, soft edges to a garden where no barriers exist. These types of plants can be used to create knot gardens and mazes in large open areas.

6. Add in areas for herb and vegetable gardens if space permits. Fresh herbs and vegetables not only transform the garden's look and fragrance, but they also add to the kitchen in a functional way, cutting food costs and enhancing flavors.

7. Fill in any remaining sparse areas with plants in terra cotta pots. A large potted citrus tree surrounded by smaller herbs in pots can fill corners, while pots of the same size arranged in a line can create formal spacing in the garden. Consider adding potted varieties of mint, oregano or sweet basil to fill in spaces. Use large urns over pots where something of a medium height is needed.

8. Trace out the locations for a few benches in secluded or shaded areas. For a well executed Tuscan garden, leave areas of interest to sit and rest in, as well as statuary to create interest. Statues can hide behind areas of foliage or stand out and be featured by the foliage, depending on how you arrange them.

Tags: garden space, areas well, gardens Tuscany, open areas, terra cotta

Iron Gate Styles

A heavily ornamented iron gate adds style and provides security.

Iron gates are mass produced in many styles, sizes and finishes. If you are looking for something unique, metal workers can create custom gates for interior and exterior use. Iron gates are formed from bars of heated iron. Install a gate to make a design statement, to separate and define living spaces and to enhance security. Does this Spark an idea?

Double Door

A double iron gate makes a bold statement in a garden or landscape. Double iron gates are often installed in driveways as they are generally much larger than a single door and they distribute the weight of the iron more evenly, putting less pressure on the hinges. Larger gardens with distinct spaces may also benefit from a double iron gate. Separate a patio or dining space from a more casual seating area or contemplative garden with a double iron gate. Double door iron gates can be installed with automatic openers which is particularly useful for a driveway gate.

Ornamental Single Door

For an artistic addition to a garden fence an ornamental iron gate makes a great choice. The single iron gate defines an entry point into your yard and garden and, while substantial and heavy, it is also welcoming as it allows light to pass through and one can see the garden within. Iron gates come in nearly any size or style from a simple row of bars to elaborate whirls, botanical motifs, and medieval designs. When choosing a door be certain it does not compete with existing fencing, walls or plantings. Elaborate doors often look best when paired with a simple stone or brick wall.

Solid Iron Gate

Solid iron gates resemble doors more than a traditional garden gate. Solid iron forms at minimum the edges of the gate. In some styles the gate will be solid iron with decorative details worked into the iron while others will have a hollow center adorned with decorative iron bars. Solid gates provide more security than barred gates as they can accommodate a more substantial knob and lock system and are generally larger than a standard garden gate. For gardens or entryways directly off of the road, a solid gate provides privacy and security and simultaneously makes an attractive aesthetic statement.

Tags: iron gate, double iron, double iron gate, garden gate, gate makes, iron gate

Make A Clay Pipe

Pipe collectors the world over enjoy both the aesthetic and functionality of clay pipes. Clay is ideal for pipe making because it so easily shaped and carved, and once fired, can last for generations. Clay pipe sculpting is an art form that goes back to the earliest pipes. Various cultures from around the world, including Native Americans, have made use of natural clays to fashion impressive smoking pipes from clay. Some of these pipes can be found in museums today, as an example of the durability of the clay pipe.

Instructions

1. Design your pipe on paper before you begin. Having your design in front of you can make it easier to sculpt your pipe. For beginners, start with a simple design. As you progress, you may want to sculpt faces or other design elements into you pipe bowl and experiment with various shapes.

2. Roll up a ball of polymer clay and begin shaping it with your fingers, pressing your thumb down in the center to create the tobacco depression. Use your fingers to shape the rim of the bowl. You can keep this simple or work the clay into a wavy design. There's really no limit to the shape you can apply to your pipe bowl. Stick with something you can manage easily. The depth of the bowl depends upon how much tobacco you want to be able to pack into your pipe.

3. Add a few ornamental designs to the bowl with a sculpting tool. You don't need to be an artist. Try carving a few basic geometric shapes into the bowl, or maybe a simple picture. Add the stem opening at the base of the bowl with your sculpting tool.

4. Roll the stem of your pipe from polymer clay. Decide whether you want a curved or straight stem and fashion the general shape, then use a thin metal wire (a coat hanger will do) to route the hole. When the stem has been shape appropriately and you've formed the mouthpiece to your liking, attach the stem to the bowl where you created the stem opening. With your fingers, mold the stem to the bowl until you've created a smooth juncture.

5. Place the pipe on a flat metal pan lined with baking parchment paper (regular paper will work) and place it in an oven heated to between 210 and 220 degrees. Bake for between 45 minutes to an hour to ensure the clay fuses and sets properly.

6. Apply a coat of clear clay varnish, which you can pick up at art supply or ceramic shops. Let the coat dry, then paint your pipe whatever color you like using acrylic paints. Let the paint dry and apply another coat of clear varnish for a shiny finish.

Tags: your pipe, your fingers, bowl with, coat clear, pipe bowl, polymer clay, sculpting tool

Bend Wrought Iron

Bend Wrought Iron

Bending and shaping wrought iron is the specialty of a blacksmith. Unless you are repeatedly forging the same size bend in a piece of metal--in which case you would want some kind of jig to ensure consistency--the only tools required for bending wrought iron are a metal forge (a very, very hot fire), a hammer and an anvil. With some basic knowledge and plenty of safety equipment, you can make your own wrought iron utensils.

Instructions

1. Wear all protective equipment, including shaded eye protection, a leather blacksmith's apron or cape, and welding gloves.

2. Grip the steel with the wolf-jaw tongs and hold it in the coals of the fire. Let it sit in the coals until it has reached the desired temperature.

3. Heat the steel until it becomes soft enough to shape with tools. You will know it has reached its desired malleability when the metal glows a bright yellow-orange color. This is its "forging heat."

4. Remove the hot steel with the tongs.

5. Lay the hot metal on the anvil with part of the metal stock extending over the edge.

6. Strike the unsupported stock with the hammer a few times to force it downward. You have just bent wrought iron at a 90-degree angle.

7. Make a rounded bend by wrapping the hot metal around the anvil's horn, tapping it with the hammer so it conforms to the shape of the horn.

8. Continue to shape the bend, by laying the metal on the anvil's surface, turned-end up. If you strike it on the inside of the bend, you will open it up, while striking it on the outside tightens the bend.

9. Refine the bend by bracing it against the horn or the face and side of the anvil (depending on which type of bend you have made).

Tags: Bend Wrought, Bend Wrought Iron, metal anvil, reached desired, steel with, with hammer

Attach A Metal Trellis To A Wood Fence

Liven up a wood fence by attaching a metal trellis.

Metal trellises are both decorative and practical items to have in your garden. A metal trellis can be made from wrought iron for an old-world appeal, stainless steel for a contemporary vibe or come in a wide range of other styles. While some trellis types are free standing, attaching one to a wood fence gives it a solid background. Attaching it does not take a lot of time. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Position the metal trellis at the point on the wooden fence where you want it to sit. Have someone hold it in place if it won't be touching the ground in any way.

2. Position a staple nail large enough to fit securely over the metal trellis over the center-left side of the trellis. Hammer it into place.

3. Place another staple nail over the center-right side of the metal trellis and secure it. Repeat the nailing process throughout the trellis until it's securely attached to the wooden fence. This will vary depending on the size and weight of your trellis. Use more staple nails for heavier trellises.

Tags: metal trellis, staple nail, wood fence, wooden fence

Cast Plaques

Create a plaster plaque for a one-of-a-kind gift.

Cast plaques are used when making decoupage projects, school and birth mementos. They can be given as unfinished gifts if you have a fellow crafter in the family or among your friends. They can also be bronzed, or have gold or silver leaf applied around the edges. Plaques can be cast from most rubber, latex, vacuum-formed plastic, plaster or sand molds. Some molds require a release agent, while others are flexible enough without one.

Instructions

1. Add plaster to water in a large mixing bowl, according to package directions. Mix slowly for thirty seconds until all water is absorbed, using a rubber scraper to reduce the number of air bubbles mixed into the plaster.

2. Apply appropriate release agent to your mold. According to plaster artist Michael Delahunt of ArtLex.com, "A release agent for plaster can be a thin clay slip, or several applications of a soft liquid soap or a thin oil. When doing life casting, petroleum jelly works well as a release agent, and it protects the skin too."

3. Level your mold. Australian mold-makers, of Aldax.com, recommend, "...half fill a large open plastic container with sand and level the molds on the surface of the sand for pouring."

4. Place the plaque mold on a vibrating surface, such as a dryer on the air fluff cycle, to force any air bubbles out of the mixture.

5. Allow the plaster in the mold to cure according to package directions.

6. Turn the mold over and gently bend or twist it to pop the plaque onto a towel or other padded surface.

7. Remove any rough spots or crests formed by a over pour using fine sandpaper. Use a steel scraper ground to the desired angle to "...taper the edges of the plaque on an angle. This is called putting a draft on the model," according to plaster artist Dan Kijak. He continues, "Scrape the edge of the plaque with your steel scraper all the way around to give it the proper draft. You need at least 1/16 inch draft. That makes the plaque 1/8 inch wider on the backside than the front."

Tags: release agent, according package, according package directions, package directions, plaster artist, steel scraper

Build Farm Metal Gates

Every enclosure needs a gate. Here's a simple metal farm gate.

Regardless of the size of a fenced area, somewhere a gate will be needed. Farm gates made of metal have a proven history of durability and ease of operation. Commercially available gates come in lengths 6 to 20 feet. If an even wider gate is needed you can buy two gates to span the space and hinge them on posts on either side of the opening. As handy as purchasing might be, gates can be constructed in a shop equipped with metal working tools. Let's build a 12-footer. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Build Frame

1. Use a hacksaw to cut one of the 12 foot pieces of 1 ½ inch square steel tubes into three equal lengths, each four feet long.

2. Lay the other two pieces of 11/2 inch square steel tubes parallel to one another, spread four feet apart on a flat surface such as a concrete shop floor.

3. Position one of the 4 foot pieces of 1 ½ inch tubes at each end of and between each of the 12 foot pieces laying on the floor to form a rectangle of 1 ½ inch tubes measuring 144 inches by 51 inches, outside measurements.

4. Position the remaining 4-foot piece of 1 ½ inch tube between the 12 foot pieces, centered exactly six feet from each end of the 12 footers. The resulting framework will be a gate frame, 12 feet long, 51 inches high divided into two equal sized rectangles.

5. Weld the top and bottom horizontal framework of the gate to the end pieces and mid-point support piece.

Build the Rungs

6. Use a hacksaw to cut the three pieces of 1-inch square tube into six lengths, each 70 3/4 inches long which should fit perfectly between the short sides of the two rectangles making up the gate framework.

7. Mark each of the 4-foot pieces of 1 ½-inch tubing at 12 inches, 24 inches and 36 inches from the ends.

8. Center one of the 70 3/4-inch pieces on these marks, parallel with the top and bottom gate-frame tubes and weld each end into place.

Hinges

9. Cut the 2-inch piece of round tubing into two equal lengths of tubing--each slightly less than one inch long.

10. Mark one of the ends of the completed gate at eight inches from the top and bottom.

11. Weld one of the 1-inch pieces of tubing to the end frame at each of these marks to become the pintle of the hinge.

12. Screw hinge screw hooks into the gate post to fit the spacing of the pintles and hang the gate in the opening.

Tags: foot pieces, inches inches, pieces inch, equal lengths, feet long, foot pieces inch

Instructions On Build A Pallet Daybed

Old wood pallets become a simplistic frame for a daybed.

A daybed is the perfect place to sleep, lounge or do a little of both. Whether you are tight on cash or are simply going 'green', this pallet daybed is easy on the environment, even easier to make and is the easiest on your pocketbook. Add some comfy touches like a plush pad, soft bedding and a few pillows and your daybed is complete. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. For your safety, wear goggles and a mask to prevent injury.

Sand your pallets so that they are smooth and free of rough edges. The Ashley Ann Photography website (see Reference) suggests using 80 grit sandpaper first and then follow with a 200 grit sandpaper to smooth the surface of the pallets.

2. Bolt the two pallets together. Be sure to bolt both the top and bottom edges of the pallets. This provides extra security and sturdiness.

3. There are many paint colors to choose from for your daybed.

Paint your pallet daybed. Choose a color that fits your style. You may choose a paint color that blends in with your room or you may want it to "pop". For example, if there is white bead board in the room where the pallet day bed will be located, paint the daybed white to blend in.

4. Add wheels. Using a hand held drill, screw on caster wheels to each of the four corners of your pallet daybed.

5. Purchase a thick foam mattress for the top of the pallet daybed. Be sure to measure the size of mattress needed before purchasing. A mattress or fabric store will carry this.

Tags: pallet daybed, color that, grit sandpaper, your daybed, your pallet, your pallet daybed

Build A Metal Art Decoration Facade

Metal decorations bring elegance to a room's decor.

Working with metal isn't as difficult as you may think. It does require some special tools, though. You'll need tools that can cut through and bend metals like copper, steel, brass, aluminum and silver. Gold isn't used very much because of its cost.

For steel, you will need an acetylene torch to make your cuts. For the other softer metals, a regular saw can be utilized, but it will need a special blade specifically for cutting through brass, copper and the like. If you use sheets of soft metal, metal shears will work.

Instructions

1. This silver rose would take a great deal of expertise to create.

Design your metal art decoration. Some popular themes for metal art are a starburst design, the sun or planets and birds or trees. Abstract designs are also quite popular and make a good choice for the beginner.

Draw your design on a large sheet of paper. If this is your first metal art project, do not make the design too complex. Save the intricate details for a later project when you are more experienced.

2. Soft metals are easier to work with.

Draw patterns, if necessary, of the main objects in your design. Paper patterns can be helpful for guiding you during the cutting process. Lay a pattern down on the metal and draw the shape onto the metal surface.

For example, if you are creating a sun with six rays shooting out from it out of brass, then draw the round shape and the rays and try to cut the entire piece with the rays included. The rays could also be cut separately and attached later with screws.

3. Intricate details can be applied to metal.

Carefully cut the design out of the piece of metal. Special caution is required if you use an acetylene torch. Be sure to wear protective eye wear and gloves. Small bits of metal fragments can cause injuries.

Once the piece has been completely cut out, check the edges for unevenness. Use a metal file to remove snags and rough areas that have been cut poorly.

4. Metal has been used for centuries to decorate building exteriors.

Bend and emboss the metal. Using your design as a template, bend the metal in the appropriate places. If your design calls for artistic indentations in the metal, then these can be accomplished with a hammer or rubber mallet.

If you are working with a soft metal, use ordinary things you might find around the house for embossing. Lay the metal on a soft surface, such as a stack of newspapers, then place a large marble onto the metal. Holding the marble firmly with two fingers, hit it with a rubber mallet. This will make a round, convex indentation on the front of the metal.

5. With the right tools, designing metallic art can be fun and rewarding.

Stamp the metal. Stamping, piercing and punching are techniques that involve striking a tool against metal with a mallet. Leaves can be stamped by placing the end of a spoon on the inside of the metal and striking it with a rubber mallet. Use nails to pierce through the metal and makes holes. A large round metal washer can help you create circular designs on the metal.

6. Experienced metal workers can create whimsical pieces of art.

Attach your metal art decoration to the outside of a building or room. Metal art decorations can work as more than simple decor. When used as a facade for the outside of a building, a metal art decoration can indicate a sheet metal shop or metal working class for students.

Your metal art decoration can be attached to the wall of a building or room using regular screws or nails.

Tags: your design, metal decoration, rubber mallet, acetylene torch, building room

Assemble A Metal Bed Frame

Assemble a Metal Bed Frame

Metal bed frames vary by size and specific design, but assembling them is usually fairly straightforward. If you don't have specific instructions for your metal bed frame, use this as a basic guide. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Set the two bed rails down on the part of the floor where you want the bed to go.

2. If your metal frame has headboard brackets, connect them to the top end of each bed rail using bolts or screws.

3. Lock the cross arms together or attach the cross rails using bolts or screws. There should usually be at least three cross rails: one at either end (forming the frame) and a third in the center (to stabilize the assembly). If your metal bed frame involves cross wires, pull them diagonally across the space between the two bed rails and affix them to their appropriate slots. Test the bed's sturdiness by stressing the points where the cross rails meet the bed rails. Lock in place, and check for bending or wriggling.

4. Measure the frame with a tape measure to make sure the mattress will fit comfortably inside the rails. If the measurements are off, this is the time to make corrections.

5. Snap the casters, wheels or glides into their appropriate brackets. The specifics will vary depending on the particular type of bed you have, but they all should be securely locked to the brackets.

6. Secure the brackets to the four ends of the bed rails using bolts or screws. Test them by placing stress on the contact points, to ensure they will support the weight of the mattress.

7. Attach the headboard to the headboard brackets, if appropriate.

8. Place the end caps on the ends of the bed rails. They will keep the sheets from snagging on the metal.

9. Place the mattress on top of the assembled frame.

Tags: your metal frame, bolts screws, cross rails, metal frame, using bolts, using bolts screws

The Uses Of Longaberger

Use a Longaberger basket to organize and store items around the home.

Many people enjoy collecting Longaberger baskets, which are handmade in Ohio by trained craftsmen. Longaberger baskets are made to last, and can withstand use that some other types of baskets cannot. Consider using Longaberger baskets for sorting and displaying household and office goods, serving foods and treats, or even as a way to hide the dirty laundry in a pretty way. Does this Spark an idea?

Sorting and Organizing

Quality made baskets such as Longaberger are an attractive way to sort and organize objects in any room. Use them in the office to organize small office supplies such as tacks, rubber bands, paper clips and pens without the visual clutter of having these things spread around the desk surface or floating around in a drawer. Larger baskets might function well in a baby's room to hold diapers, wipes and creams for diaper changes. A basket in a guest bedroom or bathroom might organize travel-sized products such as soaps, bath salts or body washes for guests' use.

Decorations

People who enjoy decorating for various holidays might consider using their Longaberger baskets as part of a holiday display. Longaberger makes seasonal baskets such as Easter baskets, as well as nest-shaped baskets for springtime display. In the fall, put Halloween treats into a seasonal basket or swap out a plain liner for a autumn-themed one. During the winter months, freshen up the air with holiday-scented potpourri in a Longaberger potpourri basket.

Serving Pieces

Rather than reserving Longaberger baskets for a spot up on a high shelf, put them to daily use as serving pieces at meal and snack times. The Real Simple website suggests using a basket to serve snacks to children, as baskets do not break like plates can, and baskets with handles are easy for little hands to carry. Arrange baked goods such as muffins or biscuits into a basket for a family-style dinner with style.

Packaging Alternatives

The sturdiness of Longaberger baskets allows them to function well as an alternative to paper or plastic packaging and bags. Pack a lunch for work or a picnic lunch for the family in a medium or large Longaberger basket. Library books, magazines or even a coloring book and crayons stashed into a basket and brought along for waits in the doctor's office and elsewhere can keep boredom at bay, without the weight of the books and papers busting through a paper bag. A large Longaberger basket with a fabric liner might function as a laundry basket rather than buying a large plastic basket.

Tags: Longaberger baskets, Longaberger basket, baskets such, function well, into basket, large Longaberger

Outdoor Planter Plants

Many plants can be kept outdoors in planters.

Although planters can be valuable assets to gardening, separating otherwise invasive species and housing plants that require different amounts of soil from the rest of the garden, planters are not ideal growing environments for all plants. In fact, many plants require too much root space to grow in a confined area. Fortunately, several plants perform admirably in planters---while some even thrive. Does this Spark an idea?

Evergreens

Evergreens are plants that do not lose their leaves when winter comes or during a cold spell. These plants range in size from squat bushes to the tallest trees, but many species are ideal for containers if pruned regularly. While dwarf pines and firs feature needles, others such as the spruce have scaly leaves. These plants often thrive under the full sunlight of the outdoors and, while they retain their leaves year-round, respond to seasonal cold temperatures by reducing their growth rate significantly. Evergreens in planters are also used for outdoor topiary sculpture.

Green Plants

Not all green plants are evergreens, but many others also perform well outdoors in a planter. Cast iron plants, yucca plants and even cacti all perform well in containers, grow slowly and tolerate the full light of the sun. Although more of a specialty plant, cactus plants love the sun, require little water and need to be repotted only every three to four years. Plants such as the cast iron plant and the yucca are used in landscaping, as well as in containers and stand up to both cold and drought well. Yucca can also be used to fill out planters where flowering plants leave large gaps and little cover for the soil. This service provides not only a fuller look for the container but covers the soil from excess heat.

Flowers

Flowers for outdoor planters come in all sizes from the low-growing violet to the large and succulent aloe vera plant, which is a member of the lily family. Most flowers require more attention than green plants or evergreens, growing quickly to bloom for a season during the year and then dying, sometimes down to the roots, sometimes altogether. Flowering shrubs, such as the shrub rose and the red twig dogwood are hardier plants and tolerate dry spells and heat more than violets or petunias.

Vegetables

Outdoor container plants are often selected for their beauty and fragrance, but many can also provide a valuable product to their owner. Tomatoes, basil, cilantro and mint grow especially well in containers while requiring the conditions of full sunlight and warm weather often found outdoors. These plants must be well watered, but will provide edible vegetables after their flowering period.

Tags: These plants, well containers, also used, full sunlight, green plants evergreens, perform well, plants evergreens

Flat Iron Work

How Does a Flat Iron Work?

Background

The concept of using heat to straighten hair has been around since the 1800s. Women used irons designed to iron clothes on their own hair. Frequent damage from the intense heat was common, but over time, the idea of hinging two flat plates together came to be. The modern hair straightener was invented in 1912 by Lady Jennifer Bell Schofield.

How Does a Flat Iron Work?

The intense heat of a flat iron is key to its effectiveness. Hydrogen bonds in each strand of hair cause it to curl. When enough heat is applied, the hydrogen bonds are broken and the hair lies straight. The curlier the hair, the more heat is required to break up these bonds so the hair can lie flat.

The kind of flat iron used also determines how easily the hair will lie down. Low quality flat irons are made of aluminum and sprayed with a ceramic coating. These require longer to straighten the hair. More expensive flat irons are often completely ceramic and created so that the daily wear and tear won't wear off the ceramic coating.

Drawbacks

Flat irons can create problems if they are used on a daily basis. The intense heat can cause split ends, dull or frizzy hair, and occasionally the hair can become brittle and break off. If a flat iron that is meant only for dry hair is used on wet hair, it can cause intense damage because the heat and steam are trapped against the hair. Cheap flat irons increase the risk of mechanical damage to your hair. Mechanical damage occurs when the ceramic coating wears off and the underlying layers of aluminum hurt the hair. Most companies now manufacture heat protection sprays and conditioners that are meant to protect your hair against constant use of a flat iron.

Tags: ceramic coating, Flat Iron Work, flat irons, intense heat, Iron Work, Does Flat, Does Flat Iron

Make A Grave Fence

A grave fence adds atmosphere to a Halloween graveyard or haunted house.

In the 19th century, individual graves sometimes had fences, known as a grave fence. These were sometimes wooden, such as a picket fence, or wrought iron fences. Old wrought iron grave fences often have decorations along the top, including spikes, flowers and designs. Grave fence also applies to a fence surrounding a graveyard or cemetery. A grave fence can be simple or ornate, and adds realism as a Halloween prop for a graveyard or haunted house. Build a grave fence with common tools and garden materials to add a chilling atmosphere to a party, event or theater production. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Spread newspaper on a worktable or the ground outside. Lay the trellises on the newspaper. Spray-paint or hand paint the trellises and allow them to dry for at least an hour. The drying time can vary, depending on the humidity and how heavily you painted the wood.

2. A grave fence adds atmosphere.

Turn the trellises over and paint the other side. Allow the paint to dry until the trellises feel dry to the touch.

3. Prop a trellis up on its side to create a low fence. Have someone hold it for you or lean it against anything that's handy at the location you want to erect it. Use metal garden stakes to anchor the grave fence in place every 2 to 3 feet on each side to hold it up securely. Place the next piece of trellis at a 90-degree angle to create a corner, or place them end-to-end for a longer grave fence. Secure the second piece of trellis the same way. Wire the trellis ends together with twist ties or wire 8 to 12 inches apart. Continue adding trellis pieces for the desired size and shape of the grave fence.

4. Add finials to one edge of the trellises to decorate the tops of the grave fence, if desired. Apply extra-strength adhesive to the base of a finial and press it against the trellis at the top of a vertical slat. Hold the finial in place for a slow count of 30 to allow the adhesive to take effect. Space the finials along the part of the fence that will show the most when guest's arrive. It's fine if the finials don't match.

Tags: grave fence, grave fence, adds atmosphere, fence adds, fence adds atmosphere, grave fence adds, graveyard haunted

Diy Painting A Metal Pipe Fence

A metal pipe fence is usually used on farms and ranches for animals like horses and cattle because it is very durable. However, a metal pipe fence is also prone to rusting. It must always be protected from rust by keeping its paint in good condition. You do not need to hire a professional to do the paint job; you can do it yourself.

Strip and Prime Metal

A metal pipe fence must be stripped down to its bare metal before you start painting. You can use a #50 sandpaper to remove all the rust. While sanding, you can apply a rust remover to the metal pipes. Repeat the sanding and the application of rust remover until all the rust is gone. After all the rust is gone, wipe the pipes with a clean rag.

Next you can apply the primer. Use a metal primer, such as an oil-based iron oxide metal primer, to avoid rust and corrosion from seeping through the top coat. It effectively eliminates corrosion in metals. Apply thick coats of metal primer.

Apply Paint

The best tool to use in painting a metal pipe fence would be the paint mitt. The paint mitt is just a rubber glove that has a coating similar to that of a paint roller. Using a sprayer to paint metal pipe fences will not do; you will just be wasting a lot of paint. A paint roller will not be able to fit into the gaps. A paint mitt will also make the work faster. You just wrap your hands around the pipe and start rubbing in the paint.

Aluminum paint is a good choice of paint to use on metal pipe fences. It will last a long time, and rust does not easily show through it. Aluminum paint pigments tend to settle at the bottom of the can, so stir the paint can every once in a while. If you want to have color in your metal pipe fence, then you can also use any oil-based paint for metals. They come in a wide variety of colors that you can choose from. Apply two coats of the finishing paint for added protection against the elements.

Tags: metal pipe, pipe fence, metal pipe fence, metal primer, paint mitt, Aluminum paint, fences will

Styles Of Brass Beds

Many styles of brass beds exist.

Brass beds were first introduced in the 1820s and became popular toward the latter half of the 19th century. The brass used is a gold-colored metal made from a zinc and copper alloy. Brass beds are either 100-percent metal or plated on other metals, such as steel. The beds have a brass headboard and typically a footboard, with steel frame rails stabilizing the bed. Brass-bed styles range from highly ornamented to simple, unadorned beds. Does this Spark an idea?

Victorian

Brass beds were first made during the Victorian era with testers and half-testers, or tall corner posts extending above the headboard and footboard. Many of these beds had a canopy for a drapery to hang from to enclose the bed and hold warmth in during the night. Victorian brass beds were very ornate and decorated with filigree, finials, knobs and turnings. Their romantic styling often had lots of curved details, Gothic arches and hand-painted porcelain finials.

Oxford

Oxford brass beds originated during the Civil War. They can be identified by the matching curved tops on the headboard and footboard. The scale of Oxford beds was modest; this bed has simple, unadorned lines and fits into both contemporary and traditional rooms. The Oxford style is one of the most popular brass bed styles, available in both antique and reproduction models.

Art Nouveau

Brass beds from the Art Nouveau era during the late 1800s and early 1900s featured whimsical curves and floral scrolls in keeping with the artistic designs of the time. Many art nouveau brass beds combined porcelain accents, brass rosettes, white paint and wrought iron with brass in these artistically influenced beds.

Art Deco

Art deco brass beds are characterized by straight lines and angles influenced by the art and architecture during the 1930s and 40s. Vertical slat-style designs were very popular, and many beds featured zigzag and geometric designs. Many beds of this era were elongated to look tall and thin, a common style of both art deco and art nouveau.

Modern

Modern brass beds are reproductions of antiques or new designs. Antique brass beds are very expensive, and it can be hard to find a quality bed. They were originally only made in single or double sizes, rather than today's common king and queen sizes, so using an antique is not feasible for larger mattresses. Newly designed brass beds have a wide range of styling; some with a simple metal tube headboard and footboard, others with vines and flowers, decorative scrolls, or plain vertical rods and knob finials.

Tags: beds were, brass beds, brass beds, headboard footboard, beds have, beds were first, Brass beds

Paint Ideas For Living Room Pictures

Paint ideas for living room pictures

Do it yourself paintings have many functions in living rooms. Large scale paintings can change the look of a room entirely and, by extension, make otherwise simple furniture or decorations appear more luxurious, while smaller paintings can subtly compliment larger scale furniture or decorations. All living room pictures, however, should accomplish a similar goal: attract attention in the space while coordinating with the other items in the living room to richly polish off a decorating theme or motif. Whether you are a beginning, skilled or advanced artist, there are a variety of paint ideas you can apply to living rooms. Does this Spark an idea?

For Beginning Artists

For the beginning artist, silhouette painting is an easy introduction into the craft. Silhouette painting is art created by using positive and negative space to create a work that is visually appealing, and often abstract. To create the positive and negative space you will need an object of which to create a silhouette. Consider items that are both easily recognizable and easy to trace, such as: clothes pins, flatware, keys and even body parts such as hands or feet. Start with a blank painting surface. This can be made from canvas, plywood or even posterboard. Trace your item onto the surface lightly using a pencil. Trace multiple silhouettes onto the surface depending on your preference and be consistent in painting either the inside or outside of the tracing, being sure to hide/remove any stray pencil marks. Use textured paint to increase the visual appeal and profile of the artwork.

Stamping or stencil painting is another easy technique for paint ideas for living rooms. Use pre-existing stamps or stencils to create paintings or create your own stamps and stencils. Leaves, fabric and hands are great natural stamps because they each create textured impressions when lightly applied with paint and pressed into a surface. Create more customized stamps by cutting raw potatoes in half and whittling the stamp design into the core of the potato. Create customized stencils using a sturdy cardboard, pencil and craft knife.

For Skilled Artists

For a more skilled artist, consider painting things such as found items in nature, cartoons, or caricatures of items, animals or people. Increase the visual appeal of a simple work by using multiple canvases to create one cohesive picture. For example, when painting a flower, arrange and temporarily attach four separate canvases and paint the image of the flower so it overlaps onto each canvas. Once dry, separate the canvases and arrange as one art display with 1 inch of space between each canvas.

Try combining or collaging different painting techniques, such as silhouette painting, stamping and stencils with images of found items, cartoons or caricatures for dynamic living room paintings.

For Advanced Artists

A more advanced artist may consider painting large scaled portraits of family members or people they admire for living room pictures. Before painting, consider whether you want the picture painted traditionally with natural paint colors or in abstract color palettes such as black and white, sepia, or colors that coordinate with the decor of your room. Consider using smaller-scaled, equally sized canvases to repeat the same portrait on each in different color palettes, and display the pieces together in the manner of Andy Warhol.

Paintings of landscapes and nature can be done in a similar manner, displayed in different color palettes, but consider the purpose for each landscape before adjusting the color palette. For example, painting of a beach is considered calming not only because of the blues of the water, but also the emotional connotation of relaxation that is often associated with the beach. A painting showing running bulls done in a blue color palette may not elicit the same calming effect, given the subject matter.

Tags: living room, color palettes, living room pictures, living rooms, room pictures, advanced artist

Antique Cast Iron

Cast Iron is a dark metal mostly known for its use in the making of cooking skillets and kitchen appliances. Some cast iron is also used to make rustic furniture; especially outdoor pieces of decorative furniture for patio and lawns. Sometimes cast iron is used to make decorative works of art, and can be used outside as well. To antique cast iron is to give it an aged appearance. Cast iron is an extremely durable metal, but with a few steps, it can be made to look antique.

Instructions

1. Use the claw end of a sharp tool, like a hammer, to distress the surface of the cast iron. Place the cast iron on top of a tarp, or on a durable and strong flat surface. Hold one end of the cast iron, and with the other hand, bang the hammer along various surface sections of the piece being distressed. Pound the cast iron in random spots to make an uneven pattern and to give the cast iron a pock-marked appearance.

2. Put on plastic gloves and a chemical fumes mask, and over old newspaper, coat the cast iron using an old rag, with a generous amount of chemical antiquing solution. Follow the directions on bottle, and repeat until the desired antique finish is achieved.

3. Use 320-grit sandpaper--or for big pieces of cast iron furniture use an electric sander--to scratch at the surface of the cast iron and dull the finish in places. Wear a dust mask while sanding, and remove any metal dust accrued with a clean paintbrush or tack cloth.

4. Paint the surface of cast iron with any type of paint made for cast iron. Sand the piece in spots with 150-grit sandpaper once the paint is dry. Apply two coats of paint before sanding, if needed. Remove excess bits of paint with tack cloth. Use a clear varnish coating to seal in the distressed look, or simply leave the distressed piece outside to become further distressed by the elements.

5. Paint with a crackle finish directly onto the surface where you want cast iron to look antiqued. Crackle finish gives cast iron an aged appearance when dry. Lightly sand the surface with sandpaper, apply primer and let it dry. Use acrylic crackle paint made for metal, and follow the instructions on the bottle. Let it dry before applying a second coat. Use a clean paint brush to apply the crackle paint, and choose a light color that will show up on the dark surface of the cast iron.

Tags: cast iron, cast iron, surface cast, surface cast iron, cast iron

Diy Iron Plant Stand

Iron stands can be highly decorative or use more subtle embellishments.

Building your own plant stand allows you to display your favorite plants and elevate them to receive more light. You can make a plant stand from almost any material, depending on the weight of the plant and your own skills working with materials. An iron plant stand holds up well outdoors and combines decorative touches with functionality. Does this Spark an idea?

Types

Before you build your own iron plant stand, you need to select a design and plan your project. Iron plant stands are sturdy enough to support multiple potted plants, which means you can build one with two or more platforms. A more traditional stand holds a single potted plant. While most iron plant stands are several feet high, the size should depend on where you expect to use the stand and what types of plants it will hold. For example, a tall potted tree looks best in a low stand, while a small potted shrub needs a taller stand to bring it up to eye level.

Process

Working with iron ranges from simple assembly to very complex processes. The most difficult option is making a cast iron plant stand. For this you need access to a foundry, which produces molten iron that you can pour into molds. Working with wrought iron is somewhat simpler and involves hammering prefabricated iron rods into the shape of your stand and welding them together at their joints. In either case, make sure you have the right tools and proper training before working with iron.

Considerations

Cast iron has a very different look than wrought iron, with thicker, more irregular elements and a more industrial look. An iron plant stand doesn't need to be made entirely of iron. A metal frame with wooden platforms for plants provides the strength of iron without the weight or difficult fabrication process. If you're not happy with the finish of your iron plant stand, you can always sand, prime and paint it to give it a new look. Distressed and brushed finishes allow you to make your new stand match existing weathered iron details in your home or yard.

Styling and Decor

An iron plant stand can complement several interior and outdoor design schemes, depending on the type of construction and the finish you use. In the home, an iron plant stand can be part of an ornate, antique style of decor. It may also suggest a rustic look, especially if it has natural wood elements or holds succulents instead of flowers. In your yard, an iron plant stand can suggest a European garden, complementing stone pathways and iron and wood benches.

Tags: plant stand, iron plant, iron plant stand, iron plant stand, iron plant, iron plant

Painting Metal Outdoor Furniture Techniques

Outdoor Metal Furniture

Transform your old metal outdoor furniture with a fresh coat of paint. Painting metal outdoor furniture is simply a process of proper cleaning techniques, followed by an application of primer and then finishing with one or two coats of paint and polyurethane. Whether you spray, roll or brush on your color, painting your outdoor furniture will brighten up your patio. Does this Spark an idea?

Cleaning

Removing any rust, peeling paint or debris from your metal outdoor furniture prior to painting is the key to a smooth and durable finish. The best way to remove rust from metal is to go over the affected areas with a wire brush. This technique is a simple, but important, part of painting your metal furniture. If you leave rust on the surface, it will show through the primer and the paint, creating rough spots on the surface of the furniture. After removing all of the rust and debris, spray the furniture with water to remove the loose particles. Let the metal dry completely, and then wipe the furniture with a vinegar dampened cloth to remove grease and grime. Primer will not adhere to a wet surface, so make sure to let the furniture dry completely before you prime.

Priming

Prime the surface of your outdoor furniture with a primer specifically formulated for exterior metal applications. If your furniture has intricate designs, you may prefer a spray on primer as the application is easier than with a brush on product. You can find primers and paints for metal at your local home store. If you're spraying, apply a smooth coat with a side-to-side motion, beginning at the top and working your way down the furniture. Be careful to keep the spray can moving; leaving it focused on one spot too long will result in a paint drip or run. If you're using a paint brush to apply your primer, the best technique is to dip the brush into the primer, remove most of the paint by scraping the bristles on the side of the can and then brush on the primer with smooth even strokes. Removing most of the primer before applying it to the furniture will help prevent paint runs. You should let the primer dry completely according to the manufacturer's directions.

Painting

Painting your metal furniture is very similar to priming it, but the paint will go on more smoothly and easily than the primer. Make sure to use a paint formulated for outdoor metal applications. Select your paint applicator based on the design of your outdoor furniture. Again, spray painting is the way to go if your furniture has intricate curves, but you could also apply the paint with a small roller on a flat surface or a paint brush on curved legs or chair backs. For a mesh metal table top, rolling the paint is the simplest and fastest technique to use. Roll underneath the table first, flip it and wipe the top surface with a damp cloth to remove any of the paint that came through the mesh. Let the surface dry before rolling the paint onto the table top. After the paint dries, apply another coat if needed. Once you're finished painting your metal furniture, let it dry completely and apply an exterior grade polyurethane topcoat to protect the paint from moisture and other outdoor elements. You can spray on the polyurethane for a quick and easy finish.

Tags: your metal, furniture with, metal outdoor furniture, outdoor furniture, outdoor furniture, painting your, your metal furniture

Stick Weld Cast Iron

Stick Weld Cast Iron

Cast iron is renowned for its strength. Despite this, it occasionally breaks. If you have a leaky cast iron bathtub, or a piece of cast iron cookware with a crack in it, you can repair it using a shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) welder, also known as a stick welder. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Make sure that the area on the object where you are welding is clean. Use a wire brush to clean off any dirt or oil.

2. Use the welder to slowly preheat the area you want to weld. Hold the welder approximately half an inch away from the surface.

3. Heat the nickel rod with the welder. Hold the tip of the rod over the crack, allowing the nickel to drip into the crack until it forms into a short bead.

4. Once you've laid a bead of nickel, peen it by hitting it with the hammer. Continue peening until it is flat. This evens out the stresses.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you have filled the crack.

6. Cover the area with a flame retardant blanket so it cools slowly.

Tags: Cast Iron, Stick Weld, Stick Weld Cast, Weld Cast, Weld Cast Iron

Paint A Birdbath

Decorate a birdbath with the right kind of paint to add color to your landscape.

Paint a birdbath to add a decorative touch to your outdoor d cor. Birdbaths are often made from metal, terra cotta or concrete. Concrete and terra cotta birdbaths are porous and you should paint them with breathable paint that allows moisture to evaporate through the painted surface. Metal is non-porous; you can easily paint metal birdbaths with metal spray paint. Make sure that you properly prepare the surface of any type of birdbath before applying paint.

Instructions

1. Clean the birdbath thoroughly with full strength white distilled vinegar and a scrub brush. You can also clean the birdbath with a 50/50 blend of bleach and water. Let the birdbath dry completely.

2. Apply concrete sealer to the outside of a concrete birdbath. Seal the inside and outside of a terra cotta planter birdbath with terra cotta sealer. Many sealers can be used on either material; read the application recommendation. Most sealers are applied with a brush or a roller, similar to paint. Read and follow the sealer manufacturer's recommended application directions and dry times. Allow the sealer to dry completely.

3. Prime the outside of a sealed concrete or sealed terra cotta birdbath with exterior latex or acrylic primer. Latex and acrylic paints are breathable and will allow moisture to escape. Prime a metal birdbath with metal spray primer. Allow the primer to dry.

4. Apply the first thin coat of exterior latex or acrylic paint or metal spray paint to the primed surfaces. Let it dry. Apply a second thin coat of paint and let it dry. Continue to paint thin layers of paint until the birdbath is covered completely. Make sure to allow the paint to dry between coats.

Tags: birdbath with, terra cotta, metal spray, exterior latex, exterior latex acrylic, Make sure, metal spray paint

Improvements For A Southern Ranch Style House

A Southern ranch style house is known for a wide, single-story design. Larger ranch homes can even be sprawling, but they might seem lacking in pizazz. To improve a Southern ranch, change the front of the house so it's no longer recognizable from the curb, or make interior changes. You aren't stuck with the limitations of a simple floor plan. Does this Spark an idea?

Covered Entry

Some Southern style ranch houses are plain -- wide, flat and with simple roof lines. Change the home's exterior by adding a dramatic covered entry. Plan to build an overhang that adds to the front entry without changing the existing roof. For example, add a timber overhang supported by wooden posts that connect with half wall planters made of brick. The door is masked by extending the entry, and the rest of the home's exterior does not look plain from the curb.

Window Dressing

Dressing up the windows on a Southern ranch makes sense when these windows have no external features, such as awnings, wrought iron grilles or shutters. Add single shutters in a bright color for decoration purposes only on either side of each window, and finish the new look with wrought iron window boxes. Although these improvements might not seem as dramatic as a covered entry, they are cost effective. These improvements also update the home without changing the front elevation.

Glass Dividers

Inside the home you can also change interior walls without major renovation costs. To make the master bedroom feel totally different, even more open, remove the wall that separates the sleeping area from the master bath. Add a glass wall divider with a built-in glass door. This wall might be set further into the bathroom to make the bedroom larger or further into the bedroom to make the bathing area larger. Create privacy by hanging floor-to-ceiling curtains from a track in the ceiling.

Visual Divider

Visual dividers break up the space in a newer ranch home with a great room. If the ceilings and the walls are all white, separating the different areas of living, dining and family room visually is difficult. Adding something as simple as a cedar ceiling beam in a dark wood divides two rooms, such as the living room and the dining room. Add a faux or real fireplace and built-in shelves on either side to change a plain wall in the same room.

Tags: dramatic covered, dramatic covered entry, either side, from curb, further into, home exterior, might seem

How Does Vinyl Fencing Compare To Other Types Of Fencing

Cost

Vinyl fencing will be a bit more expensive than wood. First of all, it is made from oil, just like other plastic products. And when oil goes up, so does everything made from it. Secondly, vinyl fencing warrants a higher price because of the fact that it is maintenance free and lasts practically forever, so it while it will be expensive to start out with, you will save money overtime. Wrought iron fencing can be very expensive, depending on what decorative features you choose. If you are on a tight budget, wood may be the choice for you.

Appearance

The only way to tell a vinyl fence from a wood fence is to touch it. The only style if have not seen yet in vinyl is bamboo, but since bamboo is fast becoming one of the top woods, it will not be long before there is a vinyl version. There are styles of vinyl fencing that mimic wrought iron designs, but it is easy to see the difference. The vinyl version is white and it does look like vinyl.

Maintenance

A vinyl fence will never need to be painted. Just take out the hose and wash it off. Wood fencing will need to be painted at least every other year, depending on the weather where you live. Wrought iron fencing also needs a lot of maintenance. Not only will the paint peel off, but it will rust as well. It is quite a job to remove the old paint, then the rust. And then repaint with a special paint that help rust proof the metal.

Durability

Vinyl fences will never split, crack, or splinter. But vinyl fencing may not be the fence of choice if you live in an area where the temperatures can fluctuate greatly. This can make vinyl fences expand and contract, leaving them vulnerable to damage. Wood, on the other hand, can do all three and this can be a safety concern for young children and pets. Vinyl is lighter in weight than wood, but its chemical properties make it denser and therefor more durable.

Styles

Vinyl fencing comes in all the same styles as wood does: panel, picket and split rail. And the panel fences come in dozens of styles and patterns. Some manufacturers have style that look like wrought iron, but it is not a varied as the wood styles. The one main style of fence that does not have a vinyl counterpart is chain link.

Tags: fencing will, iron fencing, look like, made from, need painted

Hang A Tendril Wine Rack

Home wine storage is a modern necessity for many wine drinkers. Although temperature-controlled alternatives are popular, other choices are available. With all the options for storing small amounts of wine (6 to 12 bottles), artistic wine holders serve a dual purpose--wine storage and artful decor. Tendril wine holders are wrought iron wine racks, which resemble a growing grapevine with each bottle fitting into an individual tendril. They are a unique and beautiful way to display wine bottles. Here are tips on hang a tendril wine rack. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Decide if the rack will hang directly from the ceiling or hang from a wall-mounted bracket.

2. Purchase the tendril wine rack with the specific finish, rod extender or mounting bracket. Most racks of this type are priced between $35 -$150, depending on capacity and finish options.

3. Use the stud finder to locate the ceiling header or wall stud. Mounting brackets are always installed in a ceiling header joist or stud. Mark this area with a carpenter's pencil.

4. For a ceiling-mounted method of installation, use a small ladder to reach the ceiling surface. Drill a 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch hole to start the ceiling extender rod or eye hook. Hand turn the extender until it fits snugly into the header. The manufacturer may provide a molly screw to anchor the eye hook. Screws of this type should be pushed or hammered gently into the hole until the head spring activates behind the drywall. Attach the top tendril of the wine holder to the extender rod.

5. For a wall-mounted method of installation, brackets can be hung with a drill or screwdriver (with the included screws) into the marked stud areas. Attach the top tendril of the wine holder to the hook on the wall-mounting brackets.

Tags: tendril wine, Attach tendril, Attach tendril wine, ceiling header, method installation, tendril wine holder, this type

Italian Decor Ideas

Italian décor is known for its romantic splendor and relaxing overtone. When creating your own Italian-inspired home theme, be sure to incorporate lots of rich Italian colors, luxurious bedding and tapestries, and grandiose decorative accessories. Does this Spark an idea?

Color Scheme

Decorate with the predominant Italian colors of cream, gold, granite, red, brown, terracotta and blue-green.

Walls

Paint your walls in rich red, beige, cream or terracotta colors. You can also faux finish your walls to mimic suede, leather, stucco, plaster or marble.

Floors

Install handmade terracotta floor tiles, terracotta-inspired stained concrete, marble, natural stone or mosaic floors to tie in your Italian décor theme.

If new flooring options are not feasible at the moment, cover your existing flooring with Persian or tapestry rugs.

Tapestries

Place many rich wall tapestries strategically around your home. Examples of popular Italian-inspired tapestries are medieval landscapes, mythological gods and goddesses, castles and biblical-inspired scenes.

Draperies

Avoid the use of heavy window treatments. Use light, colorful and free-hanging floor-length curtains.

Bedding and Upholstery

Select luxurious brocade, velvet or silk bedspreads and matching pillows and bed cushions.

Use the same materials to upholster sofas and chairs throughout your house to tie in your Italian-inspired décor.

Lighting

Choose cast iron or distressed copper lighting fixtures for your living and entertainment areas.

Hang Old World style wrought iron candle wall sconces to outline rooms. Erect large, ornate matching chandeliers to provide the main lighting sources in those rooms.

Accentuate mirrors and paintings with nearby iron and steel candelabras.

Accessory Ideas

Purchase Renaissance-style oil paintings and Renaissance-era wooden cassoni chests.

Decorate walls or fireplace mantles with coats of arms, family crests and shields.

Embellish your garden with stone or terracotta water fountains and statues.

Secure ceiling medallions in prominent areas, such as the kitchen and living room.

Line kitchen counters with fresh or dried Italian herbs such as rosemary, parsley, basil, oregano and sage.

Tags: Italian colors, your Italian-inspired, your walls

Style To A Dining Room

Whether you have a formal dining room or an every day dining room, it is where everyone gathers for holiday meals. You can create an appealing atmosphere with just a few inexpensive changes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Add wine racks. If you don’t have a lot of floor space in your dining room, you can add wall wine racks. Wall wine racks give a bit more décor to the walls with tastefully done grapevines and clusters of grapes. If you have the space, you can put two wall wine racks on the wall. Hang them diagonally across from each other.

2. Paint the dining room. It will give it a fresh new look. Make sure you have the rest of the dining room as you want it, so you can match the paint with the current décor, new or old. Pick a color that already exists on the current décor.

3. Add crown molding. Caulk and stick crown molding makes it possible to easily install the crown molding. The ends are already cut for you, so you don’t have to worry about wasting a piece because you cut it wrong. If you are adept with cutting angles, by all means, cut your own crown molding!

4. Add wrought iron décor. If you can find your wine racks in wrought iron, this is perfect. Add other wall pieces, stands or side tables created with wrought iron. Look for pieces that are rich in the colors of your current décor.

5. Create a focal point. If you have another bare wall, put a large wall hanging, mirror, clock, or anything that suits your fancy on the wall. If you can find matching smaller pieces, you can make a very nice focal point on the wall.

6. Add plants or silk flowers to the side tables. If you have a green thumb, add some colorful plants. If not, or if you do not want to be bothered with taking care of live plants, you can add silk plants to the area to brighten it up.

Tags: wine racks, crown molding, dining room, wrought iron, focal point