Decorate The Outside Of Your Home

Give your home an attractive entryway.

Your home can be your castle, a place that you can be proud to call your own. Pulling up to a home that is attractively decorated will give you an even bigger sense of pride, and an an eye-catching outward appearance will welcome guests and draw the attention of passersby. When decorating the exterior of your home, give attention to the big areas, as well as the lesser ones, as even the small details can transform the look of your home. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Paint the front door. Choose a color that stands out from the rest of your home. For instance, if you have a white house, paint the front door red or paint the front door of a blue house white. Guests' eyes will automatically be drawn to a color that stands out from the rest of the house, leading them directly to the entrance.

2. Hang exterior lighting. For a dramatic look, suspend a chandelier over your front door; for a more understated, yet attractive look, hang sconces on either side of the door.

3. Frame the windows with shutters. There are a variety of types of shutters -- board and batten, plantation, raised panel and Bahama, for instance -- and these shutters come in a variety of colors, so you can find something to suit your style needs.

4. Plant flower beds along the outside of your home. If you have a walkway, frame it with a flower bed on either side; plant free-formed beds along the front of your home. Fill the flower beds with ornamental shrubs and colorful annuals and perennials. These beds will add color and interest to the outside of your home.

5. Add accessories to the exterior of your home. Hang decorative house numbers on or next to your front door. Place potted plants on a stoop or porch. Set an attractive welcome mat at your front door. Hang wind chimes or place a rustic wrought iron star on your home.

Tags: front door, your home, your front, your front door, your home

Strap A Kayak Onto A Thule Jstyle Rack

Thule Hull-a-port J-style racks offer a secure way of transporting whitewater, recreational and touring kayaks. The J-style rack not only holds the kayak securely, but protects the hull from distortion, which can be a problem when strapping a kayak to the cross bars of a factory or aftermarket roof rack. By cradling the hull in place the J-style rack more evenly distributes the tension of the tie-down straps. Thule J-style racks also have cushions to protect the kayak from scratches.

Instructions

1. Position the top pad on the J-style rack so the centerline of the kayak will rest in the middle of the pad.

2. Feed the strap assembly through the top of the carrier above the top pad. Do this for both cradles.

3. Place the kayak on the rack with the cockpit facing out toward you and centered between the two rack cradles.

4. Bring the strap assemblies over the kayak and feed them through the bottom of the carrier or around the roof rack cross bar. This will depend on the model of J-style rack being used.

5. Push the buckle bumper out of the way and thread the end of the strap through the buckle, pulling tight. Pull the bumper back in place.

6. Tie one hook to the end of each length of rope.

7. Attach one hook to the bow and one to the stern. Use the attachment straps included with the rack if needed to prevent damaging your kayak.

8. Feed the free end of each rope up through the bottom of the rachets while rotating the spool in a clockwise direction until the rope comes out the top.

9. Attach the ratchet hooks to the bottom of the bumpers or to tow hooks and draw the ropes tight.

Tags: J-style rack, J-style racks, roof rack, through bottom

Cast Iron Tig Welding Techniques

Welding cast iron using a tungsten inert gas (TIG) welder is possible, but will challenge even the most seasoned welder. Cast iron contains a lot of carbon; anywhere from 3 percent to as much as 8 percent. This carbon content makes cast iron very brittle and extremely difficult to weld. Welding cast iron requires a precise process and careful temperature monitoring to ensure a quality weld and prevent cracking in the cast iron itself.

Preparation

Remove rust and oxides from the surfaces to be joined using a grinder. A smooth surface will help with weld formation. Before welding, preheat the parts to at least 500 degrees F, and higher if possible. If the parts are too cool when welding begins, the thermal shock at the weld location will cause the cast iron to crack. If extensive welding is required, the part will need to be continually heated to compensate for cooling occurring on the edges of the part. Cast iron is extremely sensitive to temperature changes, so maintaining a constant temperature across the part during the welding process is important.

Welding

Select a filler rod material based on the final application. For pieces that will not undergo significant thermal cycling, aluminum bronze makes an excellent filler material. For pieces that will require post-welding machining, or will experience extended thermal cycling, such as engines, use a nickel filler rod. Use a low current to weld, to prevent residual stresses from building up. Create several short welds instead of one continuous weld to prevent excess heating by the arc. Striking the weld with a ball peen hammer while the weld is still red can help to relieve the stresses in the weld caused by material shrinkage.

Cooling

It is critical that the cast iron parts are allowed to cool slowly after the welding is completed. If cast iron cools too quickly, it will become hardened. Hardened steel becomes even more brittle and difficult to work with, so it is important that the part is cooled slowly over 12 to 24 hours.This may require the part to be held at temperature in an oven and have the temperature step down over time, or hold the hot part in an insulating material, such as sand, until it comes to ambient temperature.

Tags: cast iron, cast iron, weld prevent, filler material, pieces that, pieces that will, that will

Wrought Iron Fence Information

Wrought iron gate

Wrought iron fences offer advantages and disadvantages over other fence styles. This type of fencing is some of the most expensive types of fencing on the market. Perhaps the largest advantage that wrought iron fences have over most other types of fences is their durability. Wrought iron fences can last for several generations if they receive the proper care, which is not much, throughout the years.

Installation

Wrought iron fencing is easy to install into the ground like most other types of fencing. Holes are dug a few feet into the ground where iron posts are inserted and surrounded with a collar of usually concrete. Wrought iron fencing is also commonly installed onto walls. This process requires much more effort, which is clearly reflected in the overall cost of a wrought iron fencing installation project. Many consumers opt to have wrought iron fencing installed atop 2-foot walls.

Cost

According to Service Magic, wrought iron fencing is one of the most expensive types of fencing on the market. Consumers can expect to pay anywhere between $15 and $20 per linear foot to have wrought iron fencing installed by professionals, according to the LA Times. Having wrought iron fencing installed on a wall greatly increases the cost per foot. The LA Times claims that wrought iron fencing can cost between $30 and $40 per linear foot if it needs to be installed on the top of a wall.

Design

Wrought iron fencing is available in many styles. Some of the styles offered by manufacturers like Cassidy Brothers are the Arlington, Clarendon, Lancaster, Tremont, Montvale and the Glendale. Arlington, Clarendon and Lancaster-style fences feature pickets that are spaced 6 inches apart. Tremont, Montvale and Glendale-style wrought iron fences feature pickets that are 4.5 inches apart.

Finials

Finials are the ornaments on top of wrought iron fencing posts and pickets. Cassidy Brothers offers several post finial style options including the pyramid, pineapple and spade. Pyramid finials resemble a four-sided pyramid. Pineapple finials are constructed to resemble a pineapple. Spade finials are formed to represent a three-dimensional spade. Some picket finial styles include the square, pyramid, trident and spade. Trident finials resemble a miniature trident, while spade finials resemble a flat, pointed spade. Pyramid finials are available in various grades of steepness.

Facts

Unlike many other types of fencing, wrought iron fencing requires only a moderate level of regular maintenance, according to the LA Times. According to This Old House, early wrought iron fencing can be identified by its ribbonlike designs, pattern irregularities, hammer marks and variations in thickness. To prevent corrosion, finials and posts should be finished separately before getting joined with a stainless steel screw. This type of fencing is commonly found around homes that are on slopes or terraces, according to the LA Times.

Tags: iron fencing, wrought iron, wrought iron fencing, iron fences, types fencing

Honeymoon Ideas In California

Napa Valley

With access to beaches, mountains and deserts, California has many possibilities for romantic honeymoon destinations. Newlyweds can relax in the peaceful wine country in Napa Valley, gawk at the celebrities in Los Angeles and Hollywood, or enjoy the cultural attractions in San Francisco.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is located north of the Bay Area in California and is known for its wine industry. It is a popular honeymoon destination because there are picturesque views at every turn, delicious wines and world class dining. Stay at a cozy bed and breakfast such as the Old World Inn, which is an award-winning B&B that was featured in Oprah Magazine. Wake up to a delicious breakfast in bed, and spend the day touring wineries in the valley. Buy tickets to the Napa Valley Wine Train, which takes you on a beautiful tour of the wine country in vintage rail cars. Make an appointment at the Greenhaus Day Spa for steams and massages. Go to Yountville and tour its many art galleries. Reserve a day for a hot air balloon ride above Napa Valley.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a perfect destination for newlyweds looking for variety on their honeymoon. Rent a car and take a ride down Pacific Coast Highway with your fiancé. Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and Southern California sun rays while viewing the beaches along the highway. In the early evening, park at a secluded beach for a romantic spot and enjoy the sunset. Visit Venice Beach for an eclectic Los Angeles experience. Tour the boardwalk to watch the street performers, and impressive weightlifters pumping iron on Muscle Beach. Buy tickets to a Los Angeles Philharmonic concert at the Hollywood Bowl. The Hollywood Bowl is a beautiful outdoor amphitheater that hosts world-class performers. Do as the locals do, and bring a picnic basket of gourmet food and wine to share with your fiancé during the concert. At night, dine at one of Los Angeles' hottest restaurants, such as Spago, The Ivy or Koi, where you might chance upon celebrities.

San Francisco

San Francisco is home of the famous Golden Gate Bridge, rolling hills and summer fog. It is a honeymoon destination that offers culture, art and world class shopping. Book a room at Hotel Bohème on Columbus Avenue for a Beat Generation inspired experience. It is a romantic place for newlyweds; poets and artists stay at Hotel Bohème to be inspired by the décor and surrounding environment. Take a tour of Chinatown and stay for a meal of authentic dim sum. Take a cable ride from Powell Street to the Fisherman's Warf for a beautiful view of the bay. Spend a day at Union Square, the epicenter of San Francisco's shopping district that includes department stores and high-end boutiques.

Tags: Napa Valley, Hollywood Bowl, honeymoon destination, wine country, with your, with your fianc, world class

Privacy Screen Ideas

Privacy screens form a visual barrier.

You can find examples of outdoor and indoor privacy screens in different cultures all over the world, from the paper room dividers of ancient Japan to the plastic decorative screens of modern America. Outdoor privacy screens are tall, weatherproof panes that block the view into your yard. Indoor privacy screens are freestanding, paneled screens consisting of a solid material, such as wood, or a solid frame around a fabric/paper panel. Does this Spark an idea?

Carved Indoor Screen

Rectangular wood planks can go from drab to dramatic when they're carved with intricate designs, stained a rich color and constructed into an indoor privacy screen. Intricate natural carvings, such as birds flying from tree to tree, can cover each plank in the four-panel screen. A mahogany stain and glossy varnish add an antique touch to the privacy screen. A gold stain and glossy varnish add a formal feel to the decoration.

Floral Indoor Screen

Floral fabric and white wood combine for an indoor privacy screen with a sweet and feminine style. The screen consists of three, tall, rectangular, white wood frames hinged into standing screen shape. Pleated, floral fabric panels fill the inside of each wood frame. The privacy screen works as a bedroom, bathroom or living room accent piece.

Japanese Indoor Screen

Traditional Japanese privacy screens, known as shoji screens, consist of decorative frames filled with a sheet of rice paper. Decorative accents can include thin pieces of wood set horizontally and vertically across the screen body create a geometric pattern. You can also paint a custom design on the paper part of the screen. The screens work best in relatively dry environments, such as a bedroom or living room.

Lattice Outdoor Screen

A natural finish on lattice creates an earthy feel.

A thin, wooden, lattice privacy screen not only looks good among outdoor surroundings, you can grow vines up the latticing for extra privacy. Thin strips of natural wood create a tall lattice screen with an earthy feel. Thin strips of white wood create a screen with a crisp feel. Place the lattice screen on the edge of a patio/deck to create a small private area or surround the sitting area with the screen to create a large private area.

Modern Outdoor Screen

Give your yard a modern edge with a wrought iron privacy screen around your patio. The screen consists of several decorative panels positioned in a line. Panels comprised of horizontal and vertical iron bars surrounded by thick, twisted, wrought iron frames form a dramatic modern screen. Panels comprised of vertical, zigzag-shaped iron bars with iron dot decorations form an amusing modern screen.

Picture Frame Indoor Screen

Add a personal touch to your decor with a privacy screen that also displays photographs and drawings. A picture frame screen consists of three, tall, rectangular wooden panels. Each panel contains several small picture frames inset with clear glass or plastic. You can slide a photo or drawing into each frame on the front and back of the screen.

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Corrugated Iron Specifications

Corrugated iron is cost-effective and long-lasting.

The term corrugated iron refers to a family of metallic construction materials unified by their rippled appearance. Henry Palmer, who supervised warehouse construction for the London Dock Company, received a patent for indented or corrugated iron sheets in 1829. Initially made of wrought iron, the material proved lightweight yet strong, fire and corrosion resistant and easy to use and reuse. Iron's reactivity caused it to rust quickly, so today corrugated iron is galvanized, galvalumed or stainless steel.

Material

Corrugated metal panels or sheets are used in siding, roofing, decking and flooring applications. Choose the product based on the composition and manufacturing process of the base steel and its coating. The coating process, called galvanizing, is a hot-dip process of applying zinc or zinc-aluminum alloys. Specify the panel lengths you need and the gauge or thickness, remembering that the smaller the gauge, the thicker the metal regardless of its composition. Other important specifications, with standards set by ASTM International, formed in 1898 as the American Section of the International Association for Testing and Materials, include the material's mechanical properties, such as its load-bearing capacity and ductibility, which indicates the material's ability to bend without rupturing. Other standards for structural performance rating include tests using uniform static air pressure difference performed on both sheets and the anchors used to attach them together and to framing elements.

Profile

The ripple pattern or corrugation profile gives the steel sheet its strength to support other building parts or its own weight without buckling. Corrugation profiles are measured by depth and pitch. Depth means the height from the top of the crest to the bottom of the trough of the profile. Pitch measures the distance between two crests. ASTM standards call for sheets made with each profile to be interchangeable in terms of dimensions, curvature, and the number and size of holes punched for bolts per foot of seam. Newer corrugation patterns feature tangents and flat crests with varying widths of flat area between crests, rather than the continuous smooth and regular curves of the traditional corrugation profile created by rollers.

Color and Finish

Address aesthetic considerations by specifying corrugated panels to which color has been added through the application of a special plastic paint made with a resin of the fluoropolymer-family that resists peeling and fading. This coating comes in more than 30 colors, in high or low gloss finish and in a smooth texture or stucco-embossed pattern. Colored panels are also popular for roofs on residential buildings because their color can aid or hinder heat gain. Order panels without color in a milled, brushed or mirror finish. The composition of the alloy used in galvanized coatings matters because the elements, and the percentage of each, that form the alloy affect panel weight and certain other properties like magnetization.

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Decorate Outdoors In A Mexican Style

Mexican decor is bright and colorful, incorporating natural elements into design.

Mexican-inspired decorating is a festive and stylish way to decorate your outdoor space. With bold, saturated colors, natural elements and casual prints, it works well for a garden, patio or screened porch. Durable, weather-resistant fabric choices are easy to find in a design scheme that will allow you to get long time use out of your outdoor decor. If you are looking for a way to create a warm, colorful environment, look no further than Mexican-themed design. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Match colorful prints with solid colors in fabrics and paint treatments. Popular colors in Mexican-inspired design are warm and saturated, such as yellow, orange, green and blue. Try combining colorful repeating prints in these colors with solid colored elements to complement the look.

2. Furnish the space with wrought iron. Mexican design and architecture commonly features wrought iron; it is a durable material that functions well in outdoor spaces. It does have the tendency to rust, so if your outdoor space is not covered, you may want to cover during heavy rain or snow.

3. Incorporate natural elements, such as wood, stone and terra cotta into the design. For example, terra cotta floor tiles are rustic and authentic to Mexican design. Incorporate wood into the space with unstained furniture and pergola coverings. Use stone to line pathways or frame outdoor seating areas.

4. Use tropical plants to add life and colors to the space. Common plants found in Mexican-inspired design are succulents and cacti, as well as colorful flowering plants such as bougainvillea, orchids and dahlias. Wide-leaved tropical plants are also useful for defining the space.

5. Integrate tile mosaics into the outdoor space. This is another way to bring color and texture into the space. Tile mosaics with bright and interesting patterns are used in wall treatments, water features, furniture and flooring.

6. Hang a hammock for an authentic Mexican addition. This not only adds seating for guests and a stylish way to relax, it dates back to Mayan traditions of weaving thick thread to create hammocks for lounging.

Tags: natural elements, outdoor space, your outdoor, your outdoor space, authentic Mexican, into design

Decorate On Bedroom Walls With Scarves

Make sure your scarf has a pattern that complements your bedroom's decor.

Decorating your bedroom walls with scarves offers you a simple way to add a color, pattern and texture to your decor. Scarves are as versatile as a decorating textile as they are in your wardrobe. The colorful silk or cotton squares or oblongs may be used in pieces based on traditional wall art while others employ more dimensional materials. If you don't have any scarves on hand, troll local thrift shops and estate sales to pick up materials for your project for pennies. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Tapestry

1. Cut one or more craft dowels with a handsaw to match the upper edge of the scarf or scarves you plan to use. Dowel that are 1/2 inch around are lightweight enough to hang, but stiff enough to support a scarf.

2. Press enough scarves on an ironing board with an iron at the appropriate heat level to make the number of tapestries you'd like to hang on your wall. Large scarves work best. Make sure that they're the right size for the dowels you've purchased. Use any kind of scarf that appeals to you, ranging from the cowboy's bandana to a long sarong. Look for colors and designs that go with the decorating motif you've chosen for your bedroom.

3. Tack the scarf onto the dowel with the upholstery tacks. Place the tacks about an inch apart along the whole length of the scarf.

4. Cut a length of ribbon with scissors. Measure it so each piece stretches from one end of the dowel to the other with about 3 extra inches. For example, if you've chosen a 36-inch dowel, cut the ribbon so that it's at least 41 inches.

5. Attach the ribbon to the ends of the dowel with an upholstery tack. Do the same to the other side of the dowel. The ribbon creates a hanger for you to hang the scarf on the wall.

Dimensional Wall Plaques

6. Lay 1-inch thick square or rectangular slabs of Styrofoam out on a work surface.

7. Cover the Styrofoam block with the scarf. The scarf should extend over the sides of the block by at least 3 inches on all sides.

8. Wrap one end of the scarf over the side of the Styrofoam block. Pin this side of the scarf down using straight pins. Tuck the corners of the fabric in and tack them down as well. This will look a little like the end of a wrapped present. The scarf should completely cover the slab. Repeat with as many scarves and slabs as you have available.

9. Pound 1-inch nails into the wall; place two parallel to each other about 2 inches apart.

10. Push the scarf-covered Styrofoam block onto the nail. There should be plenty of Styrofoam on the back of the wall hanging that's not covered with fabric. Push the nails into the Styrofoam in a spot that's not covered so that it hangs on your bedroom wall. Repeat for each plaque you made.

Shadowboxes

11. Take shadowbox frames apart.

12. Glue pieces of your scarves onto the back of the shadowboxes. This provides a visual backdrop that will look a little like contact paper on the back wall of the shadowbox.

13. Cut up the scarves into pieces that will fit into the compartments of the shadowboxes and glue the pieces onto the back of the shadowboxes. This should cover the back of the shadowbox entirely.

14. Fill the compartments with items such as buttons, skeleton keys, shells, old postcards or other small keepsakes.

15. Replace the glass on the shadowboxes and hang up.

Tags: your bedroom, Styrofoam block, back shadowboxes, back shadowboxes This, back wall, dowel ribbon, dowel with

Purchase Wrought Iron Railings

Using wrought iron railings can add a stylish flair to any home. Finding and purchasing the right railing for your needs and budget can be difficult especially if this is your first time using wrought iron railing.

Instructions

1. Take measurements of the area you will be surrounding with wrought iron railing. These measurements will ensure that you do not purchase too little of the railing. Doing so will require an additional trip to the hardware store.

2. Visit several local hardware stores where you will be able to determine the height and style of wrought iron railing you will want to purchase. Visiting several stores will allow you to compare pricing so that you get the best deal.

3. Inspect the product carefully for any imperfections. Scratches, dings, and faulty craftsmanship can not only make your finished product unsightly it can also make it unsafe.

4. Gather the items you will need to complete the project such as screws, nails, and brackets.

5. Arrange for delivery of your wrought iron railing. This is especially important if you are going to be completing a large project and won't be able to haul the wrought iron railing home in your vehicle.

Tags: wrought iron, iron railing, wrought iron railing

Outdoor Paint Ideas

Painting outdoor spaces can update the look of your home and create an inviting space for family and friends to enjoy. Large spaces like porches and decks, with a few coats of fresh paint, will jazz up you space while creating a relaxing space to enjoy throughout the year. Small surfaces, such as flower pots, can be painted and scattered in your garden for a bright and cheery space. Does this Spark an idea?

Wrought-Iron

Painted furniture will jazz up any outdoor space and create a beautiful area for relaxing and enjoying with your friends and family. Wrought-iron patio chairs are perfect for painting. Before you begin painting, clean the surfaces thoroughly with soap and water and allow to dry. Wrought-iron chairs typically come in black, so try painting the chairs something bold and dramatic. Deep oranges, golds and chocolate browns blend in nicely outside, while providing a bit of color. Rust-proof spray paint applied to wrought-iron is mess-free and simple to apply. Apply 2 coats or more and allow to dry for 24 hours. For a beautiful accent and accessory, use black and white outdoor pillows for the seats.

Patio

Painting your patio a fresh coat of paint will update your home while bringing in color and design. Patios require special outdoor paint and will need some prepping but are easy to paint and can be completed over a weekend. Clear your patio of furniture, plants and any other items. Wipe down the surface with soap, water and let it dry. Next, prime the patio and allow to dry. Wood and brick patios require more coverage so be sure to buy an extra can of primer. Paint the patio a color that will blend in with the rest of the exterior of your home, as well as harmonize with the rest of your existing furniture and accessories. Deep grays are attractive outside and blend in nicely with most home exteriors. Try painting a small area before you begin your project.

Adirondack Chairs

Adirondack chairs are a fun way to bring color to your outside patio and deck. For a set of chairs, paint each one in a different color. Bright colors like red and orange look cheery and inviting to any outdoor space. Apply one coat of primer and allow to dry before you begin to paint. Next, apply two or more coats, depending upon the colors. Darker colors like purples and deep blues might require another coat. Place the Adirondack chairs around your fire pit outside for an evening under the stars.

Flower Pots

Painting clay flower pots is an affordable and simple way to bring in color to your outside landscape. The smooth and porous outside of clay pots are the ideal surface for paint. Buy small cans of water-based acrylic paint, which are water soluble and easy to clean. Paint the pots using bright and fun colors. Add pictures and designs for a personal touch.

Plant Boxes

If your home has flower boxes or freestanding planters, paint will spruce them up in no time. For flower boxes attached to your windows, paint them a contrasting color to your home. If your home is white, consider a bright red or yellow color for the flower boxes. Plant flowers inside that pop against the color, while creating a visually stimulating focal point to your home.

Tags: your home, paint will, color your, flower boxes, Adirondack chairs, blend nicely, bring color

How Long Does It Take To Cook A Roast

Cooking a roast takes time and preparation, regardless of what meat you are using or cooking method. The most common roast is beef, and the most common method of cooking it is in the oven. This comfort food can feed quite a few people, and also will keep for about a week. All you need are the right ingredients and enough time to cook it before serving. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Types of Roasts

The best types of meat for pot roasts are brisket, rump, or pork shoulder or top round. These types of meat are very tough, so cooking them for long periods of time makes them more tender and easier to eat. Of course, you can use much nicer pieces of meat, but they will cook in a very short amount of time, making the preparation almost unnecessary. Make sure the meat you use has a low fat content and trim off the majority of the fat before roasting.

Cooking Methods

You can cook a roast most easily in the oven. It is difficult to cook large cuts of meat on the grill, especially when they are very thick. The ideal temperature for a roast in the oven is 250 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. This low temperature ensures that the roast cooks thoroughly, evenly and very slowly, giving the heat a chance to break down the tough fibers of the meat and make them tender and juicy.

Preparing the Roast

Make sure you season the roast. This will add depth of flavor and help the meat retain its juices. In a bowl, combine generous amounts of salt and pepper, then add a couple cups of olive oil (this is for larger pieces of roast, like rump). Add several pats of melted butter (to even up with the oil), any desired spices like parsley or minced onion, and some flour to make a slight paste. You should have enough seasoning that you can slather it all over the roast with your hands or a baster, and the roasting pan should be almost half full of the mixture. You can also add chopped potatoes, carrots and peppers---any vegetables you want to eat with the roast later on.

Time Frame

On average, you will need to keep your roast in the oven for three to four hours. Check on it every 45 minutes or so, re-baste it and turn it on its side to make sure all parts of it are cooking evenly. You can leave the roast in the oven for up to five hours at 250 degrees; once it is brown, it will just keep getting more tender in the oven. Regularly basting the meat is important to retain flavor and moisture.

When the Roast is Done

Once you remove the roast from the oven, let it sit for about 20 minutes to cool down and let the juices distribute evenly throughout the meat. This will also make it easier to carve. Baste it a couple more times with the juices in the pan, and season one more time with salt and pepper.

Tags: roast oven, more tender, most common, salt pepper, This will

Repair Longaberger Baskets

Longaberger baskets were started by Dave Longaberger, based in Newark, Ohio. Today, the handcrafted Longaberger baskets can be purchased through the Longaberger website or a Longaberger consultant. If your basket breaks, Longaberger does not suggest that you attempt to repair the basket yourself, as you may damage it further. Instead, you should contact your Longaberger consultant if you have one. If you don't have one, you can easily send your Longaberger basket directly to the company to have it professionally repaired. Longaberger will quickly restore baskets to look like new.

Instructions

1. Visit the Longaberger website.

2. Click "Our Company," located at the top of the page.

3. Click "Contact Us" on the left side of the page.

4. Look below the title "Technical Assistance For Using This Site." Click "Click Here" following the Basket Repair sentence.

5. Print off a "Basket Restoration Form" located on the Repair page. Fill out the form, being sure to include your name, email, address and phone number.

6. Place up to two baskets in a shipping box, and send the baskets to:

The Longaberger Company

Attn: Repair Department

5563 Raiders Road

Frazeysburg, OH 43822

Tags: Longaberger baskets, Longaberger consultant, Longaberger website, your Longaberger

Make Recycled Pallet Shelving

Create a shabby-chic shelf from a recycled shipping pallet.

Pallets are used worldwide for the easy transportation and shipping of goods. Traditionally they are of wood, and many see years of hard use. Wooden pallets will have character, and make for interesting furniture when recycled. Wooden pallets' constructions lend themselves particularly well to becoming recycled shelves that will bring personality to any room. One pallet can make two shelves. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Orient the pallet so that the slats are running vertically. Cut each end off the pallet around 4 inches in from the second slat. Most pallets have three braces which the slats are nailed onto, so you will have to cut through the three braces to sever the ends of the pallet.

2. Measure the open edge of the pallet ends (which will be the shelf bottom) and take off one of the unused pallet slats and cut it to size to fit the bottom of the pallet end. Repeat so you have two slats sized for the bottom of the pallet ends.

3. Secure the slats to the bottom of the pallet ends with 1 5/8-inch nails hammered in around the perimeter every 4 to 5 inches. Stand the pallet ends upright on the bottom. The two slats that are attached to the braces should be at the back, with the braces, with the under support plank of the pallet and the bottom forming a box to store items in.

4. Sit the pallet shelf on a bench, or an existing shelf to hold books, magazine or other items, or use 2-inch screws driven through the back slats of the pallet shelf into wall studs to secure the shelf to the wall.

Tags: pallet ends, bottom pallet, bottom pallet ends, pallet shelf, three braces, will have

Landscape & Patio Ideas

A well-landscaped backyard adds natural ambiance to an outdoor patio or deck.

Landscaping adds more to your home than value and curb appeal; a well-landscaped yard can create a personal oasis right outside your door. Create an outdoor living space that is both functional and stylish by seamlessly incorporating natural elements into your outdoor deck or patio design. A landscape organized around a style theme establishes a cohesive space that offers distinct aesthetic appeal. Does this Spark an idea?

Country Garden

Country gardens are romantic and playful options for outdoor landscaping.

Country gardens are warm, romantic and welcoming spaces that borrow from the English-style cottage gardens. Create a livable outdoor space by laying a natural cobblestone patio in a variety of cream and light gray rocks. Irregular-shaped pieces that evoke a sense of natural carving are best suited for a country patio. Provide shade by installing a simple white trellis beside the patio. A variety of climbing vines including English ivy, climbing roses and morning glory can be planted to cover the trellis in romantic, colorful foliage. Frame the patio with beds of both garden flowers and wildflowers; lavender, heather and iris are elegant garden additions, while buttercups, bluebells and daisies are playful wild varieties. Complete the country garden look with a simple spread of white wicker chairs and simple wooden side tables.

Contemporary Outdoor Spaces

Lay large gray tiles in a symmetrical pattern to create a contemporary patio.

Contemporary style is often characterized by clean lines, neutral color palates and unexpected uses of accent colors or materials. Carry the contemporary style outdoors into a contemporary patio and landscape. Designate the patio area by laying symmetrical slate tiles in a uniform color, size and shape. Create unexpected visual interest by reserving small patches within the patio for grass; either skip a tile or cut out an asymmetrical shape from the tile and plant thick grass such as wheat grass or bluegrass. Surround the patio with elegant broad-leaf shade trees like gingko or maple trees. Space the trees so that monochromatic flower beds can be planted between them. Choose a modern color palate such as yellow or orange and plant like-colored flowers within each bed; for example, one bed may be comprised of yellow daisies and marigolds while another bed may be a mix of orange poppies and pansies. Choose simple furniture with black iron framing and square or rectangular cushions to continue the clean lines of the patio.

Mediterranean Oasis

Add herbs to a Mediterrean garden.

Mediterranean landscapes are sunny, warm spaces that are designed as livable outdoor spaces. Create a Mediterranean feel by laying a patio in natural stones with red, orange and brown undertones. Avoid strict uniformity of size and shape; lay the stones so that the edges of the patio are curved or irregular. Surround the edges of the patio with low trellises that support olive vines and grapevines. Many Mediterranean gardens host whimsical wildflower beds filled with tall grasses and a variety of flowers plants including poppies, lavender and oleander. Herbs are also a common plant in Mediterranean garden; sage, rosemary and thyme add foliage and fragrance. Accessorize a Mediterranean garden with simple stone water fountains, wrought iron chairs and tile top tables.

Low-Maintenance Options

A containter garden is low cost and low maintenance.

Not all landscapes and patios require an expert green thumb. Create a colorful outdoor space that is also low maintenance by accessorizing a wooden or brick patio with a variety of potted plants. A container garden is a versatile and cost-effective way to add greenery to your landscape. Creeping Jenny, cannas and million bells are all suitable and adaptable container plants to accent your container garden. Select a wide variety of pots for an eclectic look, or stick to a theme like terracotta for a more unified appearance. For a simple yet effective landscaping update, install an arbor over the patio to provide both shade and a location for climbing plants.

Tags: patio with, space that, clean lines, container garden, contemporary patio, Country gardens, edges patio

Uses For Bar Chairs

Bar chairs were traditionally seen only in commercial settings, but have become popular residential home pieces.

Chairs are necessary for sitting comfort. Used not merely as tools for sitting, bar chairs and bar stools (used interchangeably) complement the interior of an office or a home. Designs of bar chairs vary -- with or without backs, different heights, swivel or non-swivel, with or without armrests. Frames are made of metal, wrought iron, wood, or plastic with upholstered seats or made from wood, metal or plastic. Bar chairs provide many advantages over other pieces of furniture. Their size and versatility provide aesthetic value and character to offices and homes. Does this Spark an idea?

Commercial Furniture

Traditionally used in bars, restaurants, clubs and other commercial establishments, bar chairs come in handy with limited space. Bar chairs provide not only excellent solutions to limited space, but also give an office a modern yet classy look. Bar chairs may be used as seating in workshops, reception areas or just about any area where a chair is needed.

Living and Recreation Room Furniture

These small and convenient bar chairs have become an integral part of our homes. With insufficient space, we turn to bar chairs as alternative furniture. Two bar chairs in the living room will add ambiance and an uncluttered atmosphere. The billiard room will look grand with bar chairs in the corner for a nice view without interrupting the players. Sit in a cozy bar chair while catching up with a family member or waiting in line for your barbeque when grilling with friends.

Kitchen and Dining Room Furniture

Kitchen counter tops, islands or breakfast bars must come with bar chairs. Sit on a bar chair as you slice onions, meat or vegetables to prepare your meal. It would be more comfortable sitting on a bar chair rather than standing up while you grab a quick breakfast or meal. When finished, just push the stool under the counter until you need it again. Bar chairs lined up against a kitchen wall or arranged in corners can add to the aesthetic atmosphere of your kitchen or dining area, while providing extra seating if needed.

Garage

A bar chair adds convenience in your garage or the workshop area of your home. Sit in a bar chair that suits the height of the workbench counter, while trying to fix something at your workshop.

These lightweight bar chairs can be moved from one area of your home to another, whichever room requires additional seating. Use your garage as a stockroom for your bar chairs.

Tags: area your, area your home, chairs provide, have become, limited space, Room Furniture, room will

Paint An Iron Bed Antique Gold

Iron can be painted for an ornate effect.

It is commonly believed that iron and other metals can’t be painted with good results. The truth is that iron, like all metals can be painted any color that strikes you, even gold. Iron is less receptive to paint and will peel more easily than wood, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t be painted. Taking extra care to do the job well will give you more durable and better looking results. Turning an iron bed into an antique gold masterpiece is just a matter of finding the right paint and properly prepping the iron surface. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Scrub the rusted portions of the bed with a steel bristled brush. Remove as much rust from the bed as possible.

2. Fill a spray bottle with phosphoric acid. Spray the wrought iron with the acid. Allow the chemicals to penetrate overnight. The acid will turn any remaining rust into a crust of iron phosphate. Scrub away the crust with the steel-bristled brush.

3. Dip a sponge into a mixture of dishwashing soap and warm water. Clean the chemicals from the iron. Wipe away the soap with clean water.

4. Sand the surface of the iron with medium grit sandpaper. Lightly scuff the iron to create texture. The primer will sink into the grooves and better adhere to the iron surface. Wipe away any sanding dust with a damp rag.

5. Prime the iron bed with a bonding primer. Choose a primer formulated for metal surfaces. Apply the primer in a thin, even coat. Primer will help create a smooth base for the paint and will also prevent the color from bleeding through the paint.

6. Dip a medium sized paintbrush into the gold paint and apply a thin layer to the iron bed. Use an acrylic paint for the best adhesion. Allow the first coat to dry. Apply two to three additional coats.

7. Apply one to two coats of polyurethane to the bed with a clean paintbrush. Allow each coat to dry to the touch before applying the next. Let the final coat dry overnight.

Tags: iron with, can’t painted, iron surface, paint will, that iron, Wipe away

Decorate With A Group Of Wall Clocks

You can group clocks in a variety of ways.

Clocks can be distinctive room accents, especially when arranged together on a wall. When you're grouping clocks on a wall, consider the space they're in and coordinate them with the style of the room. There are a number of imaginative ways to group wall clocks, but a geometric pattern is a simple and modern look that can be worked into nearly any room design. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Determine where in the room you want to hang your clocks. Choose a wall that is unadorned so your clocks will take center stage. The decor in the room should feel balanced, so try to pick a wall that's opposite one with large furniture or prominent wall decorations.

2. Choose clocks that are made of different materials, but try to stay within the general color palette of the room so they don't look out of place. Clocks that are the same shape but different colors can look stylish in a modern-looking arrangement.

3. Hang the clocks in a geometric pattern. Try to re-create shapes that are present in the room; for instance, if you have a diamond-patterned rug you could build a diamond-shaped clock arrangement.

4. Set the clocks at different times and remove the batteries. In a travel-themed room, you could set them to different time zones and leave them running, but multiple ticking clocks can quickly become irritating in a quiet room.

5. Hang a plain, empty picture frame around the clocks to create the look of cutting-edge art.

Tags: clocks geometric, clocks geometric pattern, geometric pattern, wall that, your clocks

Make A Chic Table

Turn warehouse pallets into one-of-a-kind chic tables.

The word chic has many definitions: sophisticated, fashionable -- even shabby. A chic table in the eye of a beholder can be pretty much anything short of a table that lacks imagination. You can make a chic table that grabs attention while eliciting praise and compliments - as long as you stay true to your personal definition of chic. That means putting your unique spin on the project and taking all the credit once the table is finished. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Make repairs to the wood pallet if there are blemishes in the slat tops or the wood framework surrounding it. Mix a small amount of epoxy compound made for wood fill projects, consisting of resin and hardener. Use a putty knife to combine equal amounts of both, and then work the compound into gashes and holes that are too deep to be fixed with sandpaper. Work fast. Epoxy compound is like quick-drying modeling clay; mix and use small amounts so you don't feel rushed.

2. Use a chisel to shave off bumps and protrusions on the pallet and then allow the epoxy medium to dry thoroughly. Sand the entire pallet-cum-tabletop with a low-grade sandpaper to smooth the surface and integrate the putty. Wipe down the pallet with a cloth to get rid of remaining dust and soil, as there's nothing chic about remnants of sandpaper dust that wind up clinging to paint, lacquer and other finishing applications.

3. Measure the area on the reverse side of the pallet. Cut a section of plywood to fit snugly into the underside. Use more epoxy medium to bond the plywood to the underside of the palette so there are no perceptible gaps in the two layers of wood. You should be able to hold up the palette to a window and no light should shine through.

4. Mount table legs to the underside of the pallet using screws to hide the tops of the legs, or you can mount the four legs to the corners of the pallet tabletop if you have purchased appendages that are pre-cut for side mounting. You can also tear apart a second pallet and use the wood braces that hold the pallet slats together as legs, or re-purpose four pieces of identically sized wrought iron scrap into legs. Once all of these elements are attached, give the wood a final sanding and stain the piece, or use a topcoat to seal all of the wood.

5. Choose the finish you envision for the surface of your chic table. Use the putty knife to lay down a thick layer of mortar that sinks between the slats of the pallet to create a smooth and earthy free-form surface, try your hand at tiling the tabletop using small mosaic tiles, or turn larger floor tiles - slate, marble or another material -- into a sleek tabletop. There are no rules for embellishing the table.

Tags: chic table, epoxy medium, putty knife, surface your, table that

Tuscan Country Kitchen Decorating

Use earthenware dishes and decorative bowls that areTuscan-inspired.

A Tuscan country style is reminiscent of Old World households. Utilizing warm tones and natural materials, it creates a simple, rustic ambiance. Decorating in the Tuscan style results in a kitchen that serves as the central core of the home, where family and friends gather to dine and share in each others' lives. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Paint your walls with earth tones or warm, rich colors, such as mustard yellow, rustic reds, taupe, sage green or eggplant. These hues give kitchens a warm, rustic ambiance.

2. Use a faux finishing kit on your kitchen cabinets to give them an antique look or install vintage-looking cabinets. If you have a wooden kitchen table and chairs, you can also refinish them with a distressed look.

3. Add touches of wrought-iron throughout the kitchen--artwork or cooking implements or handles and knobs on cabinets--to give it the look of Tuscan kitchens. If you have an eat-in kitchen or breakfast nook, use a small wrought-iron dining set.

4. Choose earthenware dishes and pottery with colorful borders to reflect Tuscan style.

5. Place pillar candles with faux stone or wood candle holders on your table or kitchen island as centerpieces. Light the candles when you are enjoying coffee or a meal with friends or family.

6. Consider stone or decorative tile flooring. Install decorative tile with bold artwork as a back splash. A design of grapevines or flowers gives the kitchen a homey, Tuscan charm.

7. Decorate the kitchen areas with grapes and grapevines, wine bottles or vegetables like artichokes or pomegranates. Or purchase artwork portraying these subjects to create a rustic appeal.

Tags: decorative tile, earthenware dishes, rustic ambiance, Tuscan style

Decorate An Atrium

Consider the climate of your atrium before placing plants and animals.

Whether it is a glass-enclosed space in your home or an encircled outdoor space outside your window, an atrium should be your oasis. When you enhance the natural lighting and open-air feel of the space with live plants, animals and a water element, you transform a blank canvas into valuable real estate in your home. Suited to quiet meditation as well as friendly gatherings, an atrium should reflect your personal style and passions with organic fundamentals. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Green up the space by placing potted or planted vegetation around the margins of the space. Take the edges off the room by grouping plants in corners and mixing tall and short plants.

2. Create a relaxation space in the middle of the room. Place a small table and chairs or lounge chairs in the atrium to make it more comfortable for guests.

3. Add a water element to make the space feel refreshing and alive. Atrium spaces can tend to feel dry and hot if they receive direct sunlight, so a bubbling fountain or small koi pond will enhance the comfort of the room.

4. Create drama in an outdoor atrium by investing in high-quality wind chimes. Long cylindrical brass tubes create deep, beautiful sounds and look great when lined up along the edge of the atrium.

5. Bring the outdoors into an enclosed atrium when you place live finches in the room. Either place an extra-large vintage birdcage in the room or allow the birds to fly free for a more natural environment.

6. Accessorize the space by placing some sculptural artwork amongst the plants or on a table. Add vintage architectural elements like old wrought iron fence pieces or an antique birdbath for more interest.

Tags: atrium should, plants animals, space placing, water element, your home

Metal Fence Repair

Water exposure eventually causes metal fences to rust or corrode.

Metal fences come in different styles and materials. The method used to repair these fences does not change significantly. The repair methods differ noticeably from wood fences due to different material properties and repair concerns. The process of realigning fencing and creating a new concrete base is the only aspect that is nearly identical between the two. Significant physical damage, such as cracks, is rarely repairable in metal fences. The entire section of fence usually needs to be replaced. This is usually not a concern because most styles of metal fence are more capable of resisting damage than wood fences. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Post Realignment

1. Dig around the concrete base of the post that needs to be realigned with a shovel.

2. Smash the old concrete base with a sledgehammer and chisel or a mining pick. You do not need to completely remove the concrete base, but you want to remove as much as possible.

3. Remove and discard the broken pieces of concrete.

4. Adjust the fence section attached to the post so it is aligned with the rest of the metal fence. Prop it in this position using bricks or any similar heavy object that can hold the fence still.

5. Mix the concrete mix with water. You need to follow the instructions that came with the concrete for the correct proportions. Different concrete mixes can require different quantities of water. This is important because adding too much or too little water causes the concrete to not set correctly.

6. Pour the concrete mix in the hole around the fence post. Wait 48 hours for the concrete to set completely before removing the bricks.

Removing Rust, Paint and Dirt

7. Wash the fence with a mixture of water and dishwashing soap to remove dirt. Dry the fence thoroughly before proceeding.

8. Scrape away rust using a wire brush. You should be able to remove all of the rust in this manner. If you are unable to scrape away all of the rust, it is usually an indication that section of the fence is not repairable and needs to be replaced. Most metal fencing is made of thin pieces of metal, with larger pieces being made of hollow tubes rather than solid pieces of metal. Anything beyond surface rust could compromise the structural integrity of the fence.

9. Scrape away all of the paint if you plan to repaint the entire fence. This step is optional. It is difficult to get the color of new and old paint to match, so it is often required to repaint the entire fence to get an even color.

10. Wash and dry the fence again to remove any remaining loose particles of rust still on the fence.

11. Repaint the fence as desired.

Tags: concrete base, away rust, entire fence, metal fence, metal fences, needs replaced

Care For A Gazebo

Apply sealant over paint to prevent chipping later.

A gazebo can last for decades as a comfortably shaded outdoor gathering place -- unless it has not been properly cared for. Gazebo care is not extremely labor-intensive if routine maintenance has taken place. Gazebos should be cleaned at the beginning of each season and maintained throughout the year. Small maintenance projects, such as wood repair or replacing rusting nails, must be handled immediately upon discovery. Cover your gazebo when it will be unused for more than one month. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Ensure piles of mulch or firewood are not leaning against the gazebo. Mulch and firewood can be sources of moisture and can cause significant damage to your gazebo.

2. Trim bushes or trees so they do not touch any part of the gazebo. Bushes and trees can trap moisture on the gazebo or scratch it with sharp branches.

3. Sweep the gazebo thoroughly when a buildup of leaves, dirt or other debris accumulates. Sweep any benches or chairs that are affixed to the gazebo. Reach into corners with the broom to remove any bugs' nests or webs that may have been built since the last cleaning. If benches and chairs are not attached to the gazebo, remove them before sweeping. Clean them by following the manufacturer's directions before placing them back inside the gazebo.

4. Climb atop a ladder to inspect the top of the gazebo at least twice per year. Look for damaged or missing shingles or roofing material. Check thoroughly for bugs' nests or webs. Replace damaged or missing roofing material immediately, and remove any pests you discover.

5. Spray the gazebo with pressurized water when it becomes dirty. At minimum, a gazebo must be thoroughly sprayed with water at the beginning of each season. Do not neglect the roof or ceiling of the gazebo.

6. For a gazebo that is not made of wood pour two quarter-sized dollops of liquid detergent into a bucket and add water. Dip the sponge into the bucket and wash all exposed areas, rinsing periodically.

Do not use soap, water and a sponge on an unfinished wooden gazebo; unfinished wooden gazebos must be kept as dry as possible with the exception of a periodic rinsing.

7. Apply water-repellent sealant to wooden gazebos every two to three years. Spray polyurethane on wrought-iron gazebos to maintain a "new" look.

Tags: beginning each, beginning each season, benches chairs, bugs nests, bugs nests webs, damaged missing

Repair A Loose Iron Railing

Repair a Loose Iron Railing

Iron railings are a classic way to provide safety for porch steps and edges. Keeping up with the maintenance on them is the best way to prolong the life of your railings. Once joints begin to move it is a downhill slide to the point of "beyond repair". Making repairs as soon as you notice them will save time and money in the long run. A few simple tools and some common sense are all that you need to keep your railings in good order. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Tighten the Railing Hardware

1. Tighten the hardware on the rail brackets. The top railing is typically held to the post with small screws or bolts. Use pliers and a wrench or screwdriver to snug up the hardware. Start at either end of the railing. The ends provide most of the strength for the railing and tightening them frequently solves the whole problem.

2. Replace any bolts or screws with stripped threads or damaged heads. Take the old hardware with you to easily identify the correct replacement hardware.

3. Repair damaged brackets with JB weld or similar metal epoxy. Remove the part, if possible, before making the repair. Mix the parts of the epoxy according to manufacturer's instructions. Clean the parts of loose rust, paint and dust with a wire brush. Apply epoxy to both pieces, allow the recommended time before attaching the parts to each other. Give the epoxy adequate time to harden before reattaching.

4. Replace broken parts. Most common railings are commercially produced and replacement parts may be available for special order from your local lumber yard. Take the broken part with you for easy identification.

Tighten Floor Brackets

5. Tighten concrete anchors mounting the post brackets to the floor. Use a screwdriver or wrench to tighten loosened concrete anchors. Tighten by hand to avoid stripping.

6. Replace severely stripped anchors with 1/4-inch tapcon style concrete screws. Purchase screws a little longer than the originals, to make sure they bite into the concrete.

7. Use a masonry bit to drill the hole to the appropriate depth 1/4-inch deeper than the length of the screw. Use a 3/16-inch masonry bit. Wrap a piece of masking tape around the bit to mark the needed depth (the length of the screw plus 1/4-inch from the tip of the bit.

8. Drive the screw snugly into the hole. Use the manufacturer's recommended screw bit and make sure not to overtighten.

Tighten Floor Brackets on Wood Floor

9. Tighten screws in wood porch floors with a screwdriver, rather than a drill, to avoid stripping the screw hole further.

10. Break a match stick or small wood dowel off in holes that are severely wallowed out before replacing and tightening the screws. This can help to provide extra tension in the hole and allow the screw to tighten down fully.

11. Use a slightly longer or thicker screw to replace those in severely wallowed holes. If the railing does not tighten after replacing the screws, you may have to remove and replace the damaged floor board to give the railing proper support.

Tags: avoid stripping, concrete anchors, Floor Brackets, Iron Railing, length screw

Window Box Flower Ideas

Many homes feature window boxes that accentuate the look of the home and add a personal touch. The planters are attached below windows so the plants are visible outdoors and indoors. Window boxes are available in several styles and materials, including wood and wrought iron. Does this Spark an idea?

Visually Pleasing

Personal taste is the motivator in window boxes. No matter what you like, there are plants to match your taste. There is no right or wrong way. Consider how you want the window box to look.

Flowering plants and vines are excellent choices for window boxes. Mix and match various plants or just plant one type in several boxes.

Plants

Remove the plants from hanging baskets and plant them in a window box. Geraniums, ivy, airplane plants or other full foliage fills a window box nicely and cascades down the wall. Alternatively, train the ivy vines to grow up the wall as well.

Perennials are good choices for window boxes. Petunias, foxglove and many others create a vivid array of colors and need to be replanted just every two to four years.

Trailing vines in a window box create a woody look to the outside of the home. Train vining plants to grow up and down over the window box. Specific plants available are Virginia creeper, lantana or wisteria. All varieties will need pruning often to keep them contained in a window box, however.

Consider such tall plants as irises or lilies in the center of each window box, surrounded by smaller flowering plants, such as pansies, Shasta daisies and moss roses.

Additional Ideas

Window boxes feature cactus and herb gardens as well. Aloe vera, pencil cactus, Elkhorn cactus and Christmas cactus make excellent gardens in window boxes filled with potting soil and a thick layer of small pebbles.

Plant an herb garden window box under the kitchen window. Herbs include basil, parsley, rosemary and thyme. When you need a fresh herb, simply open the window and pick as much as needed. The aroma of a freshly picked herb garden is not to be outdone.

Tags: window boxes, choices window, choices window boxes, herb garden, window boxes

Season Cast Iron Grill Grates

Properly seasoned cast iron grill grates cook like a non-stick pan.

Long before modern kitchen appliances were invented, people cooked with cast-iron cookware over a fire pit or fireplace. A cast iron grill grate provides you with a sturdy, simple-to-use cooking surface. Maintaining your cast iron grill grates will keep them in good condition for many years. Poorly maintained cast iron grill grates end up with food stuck on them, and become rusty. A well-maintained cast iron surface cooks easily, with little mess, similar to non-stick cookware. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the grill grate from the grill.

2. Scoop a quarter-sized amount of vegetable shortening onto a clean paper towel.

3. Wipe the vegetable shortening over the surface of the cast iron grill grate, changing paper towels as needed. Cover the entire cooking surface, including any grooves, corners and crevices.

4. Place the grill grate back into the grill and close the lid.

5. Preheat the grill on the "High" setting for 10 minutes, then turn the burner heat down to the "Medium" setting. Let the grill grate bake in the grill for 30 minutes to season the grates. Turn the heat off in the grill, and let the grate cool before you use it.

Tags: cast iron, grill grate, iron grill, cast iron grill, grill grates

Different Types Of Vanity Tables

Vanity tables are defined by their features, the type of mirror or extra features. These types of vanity tables come in all furniture styles and in a wide assortment of woods or wrought iron. Does this Spark an idea?

Bathroom Vanity Tables

Vanity tables are not confined to the bedroom any more. Bathrooms are more like spas, and vanity tables are combined with the basin and a wall-hung mirror.

Triple Mirror

A triple-mirror vanity has one large stationary mirror and two smaller mirrors attached by brackets to each side. The side mirrors can be moved back and forth.

Rotating Mirror

A rotating mirror vanity has a single mirror, square or oval, mounted in the center of the back. The mirror can be rotated from front to back, giving different viewing angles.

Jewelry Armoire Vanity

A jewelry armoire vanity is two pieces of furniture in one. The vanity has a rotating mirror, and there is a set of jewelry drawers on one side.

Corner Vanity Tables

Corner vanity tables are made for small rooms. The tables themselves are smaller than other models but fit into a corner when space is limited.

Tags: vanity tables, rotating mirror, Vanity Tables

French Country Decorating Tips

It's time to abandon those four white walls and embrace a style that has soul. French country decor, with its preference for the antique and the well-loved, fits the bill. The design trend brings a whiff of Provencal lavender fields to the home, but is less homespun and slightly more regal that its American country counterpart. Does this Spark an idea?

Palette

A French country palette features faded antique shades as well as dashes of bolder hues. Creamy and distressed whites are the ideal accents for cornflower blue, Mediterranean blues and greens, saffron yellow, woodsy browns, faded gray, deep red and persimmon orange. Try an accent wall in a golden hue, and add a trim of jaunty blue fleur-de-lis. Create an eye-catching faux finish by painting a wall deep blue or green and letting it dry before adding a coat of thin whitewash. Use fine-grain sandpaper to rub away at the whitewash and allow bits of the blue or green to show through.

Furniture

Think rustic, farmhouse, cottage and shabby chic style and you have the French country look. Bistro-style metal patio furniture looks perfect in a breakfast nook, while the bedroom might feature a wrought iron bed frame painted antique white or palest lavender. In the bathroom and kitchen, use natural materials such as wood, stone, marble, clay and paper. Add regal touches for a little French formalism, such as chairs with turned-out legs, cabinets with painted trim, hand-painted tiles and metal scroll work on bins and shelf supports.

Accessories

Decorate with the quintessential French country symbols such as the red rooster and the fleur-de-lis design. Use chandeliers or ornate table lamps for lighting, and accent it with wrought iron candle holders and simple white candles. Create a focal point for a room with a bold accessory such as a large wall clock, a mirror framed in ornate scrolls or hammered tin, or a lavish Oriental rug. Dress windows in French cafe curtains set halfway down the window frame. Use vintage fabrics or old pillowcases or dishtowels in translucent cotton fabrics, which allow the maximum amount of natural light to come inside.

Tags: blue green, French country, French country, wrought iron

Replace An Exterior Metal Stair Railing

Replacing metal rails requires a good deal of work.

Many exterior stairs consist of poured concrete, making them both functional and sturdy. The railing for these stairs is often wrought iron, which attaches securely to the stairs using special masonry hardware. If your metal railing has deteriorated or rusted, replacing it is the best option. Replacing a metal railing requires that you remove the old railing before installing the new one. Removing the old hardware is often a challenge, since the anchors are usually buried deep in the concrete. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Examine the bottom of the metal railing where it attaches to the concrete, and locate the screws that hold it down. Remove the screws, using a power drill. If you meet extreme resistance, the screws may have rusted to the railing. Spray them with a lubricating spray and let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes before trying to remove them again.

2. Examine the wall of the home where the rear portion of the metal stairs mounts. Locate the mounting brackets in this location and remove the screws for them in the same manner. Lift the metal railing out of the way.

3. Remove any remaining metal support posts on the concrete stairs by cutting them off flush with the concrete. Put on protective eye wear, and insert a metal cutting blade into a reciprocating saw. Hold the blade firmly on top of the stairs and cut parallel to it until the support posts detach.

4. Look at the top of the concrete stairs to determine whether rust stains are present. If rust exists, brush the concrete vigorously with a wire brush until they disappear.

5. Place the new railing on top of the concrete stairs 2 inches from the side edge. Position the railing over the previous holes to hide them, if possible. However, make sure that the screw holes on the railing are over solid concrete.

6. Mark each screw hole, using a pencil, and set the railing aside. Insert a 1/4-inch-diameter masonry bit into a drill and create a 1-5/8-inch-deep hole in each marked location.

7. Place the new metal railing back in place, and insert a corrosion-resistant masonry screw into each screw hole on the railing, using a power drill. Attach the wall mounts to the home with more corrosion-resistant masonry screws, or wood screws if it is not brick or stone.

8. Open a tub of concrete patching compound if any old holes remain. Scoop out some of the patching compound with a putty knife and spread it over the holes to fill them.

Tags: metal railing, concrete stairs, corrosion-resistant masonry, each screw, each screw hole, patching compound

Attach A Stone Table Top To A Base

Granite table tops make beautiful accent pieces.

Stone is a porous material used to manufacture countertops, flooring and tabletops. The material is extremely heavy and offers an unmatched level of durability. Common types of stone used for tabletops are granite, marble and quartz. Manufacturers cut the stone to various shapes and sizes. Installing a custom edge, such as a bull nose, around the top completes the fabrication. Attaching or repairing a stone table top to a table base is an easy home improvement project that you can complete in less than an hour. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Spread out a drop cloth or other protective material such as cardboard on the floor. Position the stone table top face down on the drop cloth.

2. Cut off the tip of the silicone tube to allow for a 1/4-inch opening in the tip and load it into the caulk gun.

3. Wipe the top of the table base and the area of the stone table top that you will attach to the base with a rag and acetone to remove any dirt, debris or film. This helps to ensure a tight bond when joining the two materials together.

4. Sit the table base on the stone tabletop and use a tape measure to center the base in the correct position. Draw an outline of the table base on the bottom of the tabletop with a pencil.

5. Apply a generous amount of silicone inside the outline on the table top. Firmly press the table base into the silicone. Use the outline as a guide to position the table base in its correct position. Remove any excess silicone that might squeeze out of the joints with a rag. Inspect the joint between the two pieces for any voids and apply more silicone if necessary. Allow the silicone to cure for 24 hours before moving the table.

Tags: table base, base correct, base correct position, correct position, drop cloth, outline table

About Japanese Cooking With Cast Iron Pots

Japanese use cast iron pots because of their durability and how long they can hold heat. The pots are used primarily in nabemono dishes and tea ceremonies. When eating nabemono, the large pots are filled with broth or vegetables, and guests add their own ingredients as they desire, eating in a communal gathering. In tea ceremonies, the pots are used to heat the water that is poured into cups for the tea. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Uses

Japanese cast iron is used in a variety of cooking, especially group meals and large dishes in which several ingredients are combined. Japanese cast iron cookware focuses primarily on utility, and it is used instead of the stainless steel or Teflon alternatives available in the United States. Proponents of cast iron cooking say that the iron enhances the flavor of such communal Japanese dishes and adds important nutrients to the meals.

History

The art of creating the simple pots used in Japanese cast iron cooking is called Nambu-tekki. It was born in the 17th century and refined in the later centuries to the basic kettle and skillet designs used today. Japanese cooks found that cast iron retained heat longer, heated more evenly and lasted much longer than alternatives, thus suitable for frequent family meals and tea ceremonies.

Nabemono

Nabemono is a term used to refer to both the one-pot meals served in cast iron pots and the communal tradition of meeting at homes and restaurants to partake in such meals. The word nabemono lmeans "things in a pot," and it is the most popular use of cast iron cooking in Japan. In nabemono gatherings, people bring their own ingredients in pots and platters and make them available to all guests. Diners choose from the ingredients that interest them and place them in the pots filled with heated broth or soup of some kind. Once cooked, the diners draw food from the pots that interest them.

Chagama

The other popular use of cast iron pots in Japanese cuisine is as water pots for tea ceremonies. These lavish and highly formal ceremonies are held for a variety of reasons, but they center around the chagama, or the cast iron pot used to heat the water that is poured for tea.

Sukiyaki

Sukiyaki is the name for the most popular dish eaten in the nabemono style. It has migrated to the dishes of other cultures and is one of the most well-known Japanese dishes. The primary ingredient is usually some type of meat, cut into pieces small enough to fit in and be shared from the pot, along with vegetables and raw egg.

Tags: cast iron, cast iron, Japanese cast, Japanese cast iron, cast iron cooking

Define Ansi 75 Steel Toe

Steel and composite safety toe footwear is regulated by a strict standards and compliance system. The components of the shoe must meet testing specifications to be designated as safety footwear. Steel toe footwear is classified with an ANSI or ASTM rating that confirms the footwear meets these safety standards. Whether the shoe is steel toe or composite toe, it will be required to meet the same safety standards.

Significance

ANSI is an abbreviation for the American National Standards Institute. This organization coordinates voluntary national standards in the private and public sector. These standards relate to products, services, processes, systems and personnel. The classification of ANSI 75 in relation to steel toe footwear refers to the impact and compression forces the safety toe is rated to protect against. Steel and safety toe footwear are rated between the level of ANSI 41 and ANSI 75.

Features

The ANSI rating of 75 is separated into two distinct safety measurements. The rating of I/75 means the steel toe is tested to withstand an impact rating of 75 lb. If the steel toe withstands the force of a 75-pound weight dropped from 3 feet in height, it will achieve this classification. The rating of C/75 means the steel toe is tested to withstand a compression rating of 75, which is equal to 2,500 lb. of pressure.

History

The ANSI rating system in the safety toe industry has been replaced with the ASTM standards classification. ASTM, previously known as the American Society for Testing and Materials, is now the premiere standards organization internationally. As of 2005, manufacturers have been phasing out the ANSI rating in their inventory in deference to the new standard system of the ASTM. As the actual testing methods for these standards have not changed, the ANSI rated steel toe should not be considered inferior in safety qualifications to the newer ASTM rating system.

Identification

The ASTM has allowed for manufacturers to continue to produce footwear using existing inventory tags with the ANSI rating system. The ANSI rating of 75 falls under the ANSI Z75, Standard for Personal Protection Protective Footwear, which has been replaced by the new ASTM International standards entitled F2412-05 Standard Test Methods for Foot Protection and F2413-05 Standard Requirements for Protective Footwear. Any of these ratings can be found inside the tongue or interior sides of standards compliant safety footwear. Common phrasing you will find on compliant footwear is "engineered to meet or exceed ASTM standards for safety toe footwear." Many manufacturers still include the ANSI standard specifications in addition to the ASTM ratings.

Misconceptions

Testing has proven that a compliant steel toe is much safer than the alternative. The misconception that extreme weights will cause the steel toe to crush and amputate the wearers toes is categorically false. The weight required to crush a steel toe would also easily crush an unprotected foot, effectively amputating the toes. In most cases, the engineering of the steel toe causes the impact force to be redirected.

Tags: ANSI rating, safety footwear, rating system, ANSI rating system, ASTM rating

About Aluminum Fences

Aluminum and iron fences look almost identical.

Aluminum is one of the most abundant and durable metals on earth, and it is used for a number of building and construction materials. Aluminum fences provide a lightweight, low-maintenance alternative to traditional iron fences, which can be difficult for the average homeowner to install and maintain. Does this Spark an idea?

Aluminum Fence Styles

Aluminum fences are generally available in the same styles as wrought-iron fences, and since their function is so similar, the two types of fences are often compared with one another. Aluminum fences are usually between 3 and 6 feet tall, although taller options are sometimes available, with numerous thin aluminum pickets and two to four horizontal rails. The top of the aluminum fence is usually the only decorative area, with the tops of the pickets forming a spire, point or loop. Generally, any iron fence style can be duplicated in aluminum.

Aluminum Fence Installation and Use

While aluminum fences may be light, they still need to have their posts set into concrete for stability. Once the posts are in place, the panels that make up the aluminum fence are installed between the posts. Most aluminum fences can also attach to brackets that you can hang from your own wood or stone posts. Aluminum fences help you define and beautify a space, and, due to some of the advantages of the aluminum material, are often found around pools or in wet climates.

Aluminum Fence Advantages

The biggest advantage of aluminum fencing is the fact that it cannot rust since it contains no iron. Aluminum is also resistant to all types of corrosion, which makes it a very attractive fencing option for wet environments. Aluminum has very good paint adhesion through a process called powder coating, which means that it can go many years without having to be repainted. Aluminum fencing is fairly light, especially compared to iron fencing, so the average homeowner will have a much easier time installing it.

Aluminum Fence Disadvantages

While aluminum fencing can come in many styles, all those styles are variations on the slim picket theme, which provides a physical barrier but not a visual barrier. If you need a privacy fence, aluminum fencing is not for you. Aluminum fencing also isn't considered as desirable as wood or iron fences, so it won't add to your property value as much as the other types of fences, even though the installation costs may be similar. Finally, aluminum isn't as strong as wood or iron, so it can bend and dent from blows that wouldn't faze an iron fence.

Tags: Aluminum fences, aluminum fencing, iron fences, Aluminum Fence, aluminum fences, average homeowner

Attach A Wroughtiron Spindle To A Handrail

Handrails and balusters play important safety roles on any staircase or elevated structure, but they have more than functional value; they also have aesthetic worth. Railings assist in getting up and down a staircase, and they can prevent people from falling when they lose their footing; balusters or railing spindles will keep a child from falling through -- but that doesn't mean they can't be decorative as well. Spindles or balusters are the supports that connect the handrail to the staircase. Wrought-iron spindles make a secure barrier at the side of the stairs while also providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Drill holes in the bottom of the rail or staircase treads with a 5/8-inch bit and into the floor rail underneath it. The bottom holes require a maximum depth of 11/16 inch, while the upper holes should be at least an inch and a half into the rail for maximum support. Adjacent holes should usually be only 4 inches apart from each other, both on the top and the bottom . Stair treads usually have three iron spindles each, and balconies use three per foot of railing.

2. Measure the height of the rail with a tape measure and cut the spindle as needed so it fits. Use a metal-cutting band saw and cut from the bottom of the spindle. Wear safety goggles and gloves to help prevent risk of injury.

3. Test the spindle length by sliding the top of the spindle into the top hole and then dropping the bottom into the bottom hole to ensure the iron spindle fits appropriately. Adjust the holes or the spindle length as needed with your drill and band saw.

4. Slide a baluster shoe on the bottom of the spindle for a more professional look prior to attaching it to the rail. The spindle goes right through the hole in the shoe and then the shoe sits on the floor or the bottom rail until it gets glued.

5. Wrap masking tape around the top section of the spindle below the section attaching to the top rail to protect it from epoxy glue exposure.

6. Glue the top of the spindle with epoxy and slide it into the top hole of the rail. Drop the bottom of the spindle into its hole and add epoxy into the hole to secure the iron. Wipe away any excess glue with a rag before it dries, and remove the tape.

7. Lift up the baluster shoe and apply epoxy to the underside of it. Press it down into the floor or bottom rail and wipe away any excess with the rag. Insert the securing screw into the side of the shoe to attach it to the spindle itself once the glue dries.

Tags: into hole, bottom rail, bottom spindle, attaching rail, away excess, baluster shoe

Iron Anniversary Gifts For Women

Iron is one of the traditional gifts for a sixth wedding anniversary. A steam iron probably isn't the best choice as an anniversary gift for your wife. But, if she likes antiques she might appreciate an antique iron. With a little imagination, you can find other gift ideas and still keep in theme with the traditional iron.

Wrought Iron

Wrought iron provides an endless array of gift possibilities. When selecting something for your wife's garden, consider an ornamental iron birdbath, gazebo, sundial, park bench or decorative iron gate or fencing. Choose wrought-iron furniture for the patio, an outdoor iron wall clock or wind chimes. For the wine connoisseur choose a wine rack. Give her gourmet kitchen a boost with a wrought-iron baker's rack or pot rack. When shopping for home decor items consider wrought-iron framed mirrors, sculptures, coat racks, vanities, candle holders, sconces, wall hangings, end tables, headboards, fruit bowls, bookshelves, plant holders, chandeliers, end irons and birdcages.

Sporting

For the golfer, head to the golf shop and look into new golfing equipment, specifically a new set of irons. If she isn't a golfer, there are other athletic options, such as a membership to a gym, body-building weights, exercise equipment. This will give her the opportunity to pump "iron." Before giving this gift, use a bit of sensitivity and ask yourself if she will appreciate the gift, or view it as a subtle criticism of her physique. If she enjoys bicycling, give her a bike--an Iron Horse Mountain bike.

Jewelry

Some jewelry makers handcraft distinct pieces from iron. If celebrating your sixth wedding anniversary, look for a piece of iron jewelry to commemorate the occasion. This might be an iron pendant, iron clasp bracelet or other piece of jewelry. Another jewelry related item is a jewelry display rack made from iron. This is a place for your wife to hold her earrings and necklaces.

Books

Shop for her gift at the bookstore and look for titles which include "iron." These type of books range from classics to cookbooks, including such titles as "The Man in the Iron Mask" by Alexandre Dumas and David Coward, "The Iron Duke" by Meljean Brook, "Invincible Iron Man" by Matt Fraction and Salvador Larroca, "Iron Kissed" by Patricia Briggs, "Iron Lake" by William Kent Krueger or "The Cast Iron Skillet Cookbook: Recipes for the Best Pan in Your Kitchen" by Sharon Kramis and Julie Kramis Hearne.

Cooking

Look into cast iron cookware, if you wife loves to cook. See what pieces she currently owns. While some avid cooks love cooking with cast iron, some dislike it due to its weight. If your wife hates to cook, skip the cookware.

Tags: your wife, cast iron, from iron, sixth wedding, sixth wedding anniversary, wedding anniversary