If you are tired of the appearance of dark wrought-iron bed frames, you can paint them in the hue of your choice. Not just any paint will do, though. Metal paints contain additives that prevent rust. Also, not all metal primers and paints are compatible. One solution is to choose a primer and a finish-coat paint from the same manufacturer that are designed to be used together.
Instructions
1. Wipe the wrought-iron bed frames with a rag that was dipped in mineral spirits. That will help you to remove all traces of oil and grease from the frames.
2. Scrape rusty areas with a putty knife or scraping tool. Remove all loose rust scale. Rub the surface with steel wool, too.
3. Apply an oil-based primer. The primer needs to be designed for use on metal surfaces such as wrought iron. Roll on the primer with a small roller. Spread the primer with a paintbrush. Cover the whole surface with one coat of primer.
4. Paint the bed frames with a finish paint that has a rust inhibitor within 24 hours of priming them. That will help the primer and paint bond.
5. Roll on the paint in the same way you applied the primer. Use a paintbrush to make smooth, sweeping strokes to distribute the paint. Switch to a paintbrush with synthetic bristles if you decide to use a water-based paint.
Tags: frames with, primer with, surface with, That will, That will help, will help
Welcome the holidays with a primitive Thanksgiving vignette.
A home decorated in the primitive style is cozy and welcoming. Comfort is key. There is nothing formal in this type of decor. It depends largely on well-weathered furnishings and accessories crafted to reflect a time when things were utilitarian rather than decorative. But the primitive look is not limited to farm houses in the country and rustic cabins in the woods. You can achieve this distinctive style no matter where you live. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Furnish your home with primitive antiques. Look for pieces with a patina that can only come with age. Check for areas where the finish is weathered, exposing the wood underneath. These spots should appear in places such as around handles and knobs on old cupboards, chair seats on wooden chairs, the rockers on aged rocking chairs and the corners on dressers, cupboards and tables.
2. Switch out hanging cabinets in your kitchen with free-standing pieces such as pie safes, canning cupboards and Hoosier cabinets. Put a primitive hutch to work holding items such as dishes, glassware, vintage baking implements and table linens. Replace an island with a chopping block, grain bin or dry sink. Put a vintage porch post to work as a pot holder. Install a farm-style apron sink, a brick backsplash and slate or wood counters.
3. Dine at a weathered farm table or vintage round, oak pedestal table. Surround them with mismatched plank bottom chairs. Throw a burlap or natural linen cloth over it. Center the table with a bouquet of dried flowers in a crock or a handle basket filled with Granny Smith apples.
4. Hang a wrought iron chandelier over your dining room table. Choose one that burns candles or one that uses candle shaped light bulbs. Add a little romance to your bedroom by installing one above your bed. Bring another primitive touch to your kitchen with a wrought iron ceiling light above the sink or island. Provide task lighting with wrought iron floor lamps. Soften the mood with table lamps fashioned from crocks and topped with plaid or punched tin shades.
5. Dress your windows with muslin curtains hung from twine. Create a valance from a tree branch. Opt for tab curtains hung from wooden rods.
6. Warm the floors with rag throw rugs or braided area rugs. Install beadboard half way up the walls. Paint the upper half and stencil the top of the wall or just above the beadboard.
7. Furnish your front porch with hand-crafted twig furniture. Dress the front door with a twig wreath embellished with a simple twine or raffia bow. Add an old-fashioned screen door.
8. Accessorize your walls with quilts, game boards, folk art and barn stars. Display collections of vintage toys on shelves or peg boards. Create vignettes on tables and the tops of cupboards. Use things such as antique wooden bowls, crocks, dried flowers, grapevine wreaths, candles and Shaker boxes.
Turn plain camping chairs into personalized seating.
In the 1960s, people often decorated their patios with personalized director's chairs. These folding chairs had canvas seats and backs, and you ironed letters onto the back portion to indicate the name of each chair user. Today's patio sitter or camper is more apt to use a nylon folding chair that slips into a bag. While these chairs are lighter and easier to manage, you can't iron on them without melting the fabric. Use another method to decorate and personalize your family's camping chairs.
Instructions
1. Take the chair out of the bag and set it up on the grass outdoors in the shade. Push down any levers or locks to secure the chair into the open position.
2. Position letter stencils across the back of the chair to make the name of the chair's owner. Stick masking tape all around the stencil to hold it in place.
3. Fill in the spaces in the stencil with paint from a paint pen. These pens hold acrylic paint which dries quickly. They are easy to handle and very accurate, being about the size of a basic marker.
4. Tape design stencils around the name on each chair to further personalize each one. Add dinosaurs, flowers, cars or anything else your kids enjoy. Get into the fun with adult chairs by adding wine glasses, fishing designs, quilt squares or anything else to indicate your personal hobbies. Fill in each stencil design with paint pens in multiple colors.
5. Remove the stencil and tape and allow the paint to dry completely before you use the chairs. This usually takes about 3 to 4 hours.
Tags: anything else, camping chairs, each chair, name each, name each chair, with paint
Decorating a gate will give it character, color and charm.
A gate lends structure and privacy to a property's border. It provides an entrance for the homeowner and residents, and access to the home for visitors. Those are the "functional" qualities of a gate. However, you can make your gate go beyond being a mere functional structure. You can take your gate from the "usual and customary" to one that's full of personality and style. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Select a style for the gate. The style can be country, eclectic, or modern. Use a style that will coordinate with the exterior of your home and the color scheme of your garden.
2. Create a country look by using wood for the gate. Use a ready-made wooden gate from a home improvement store -- or create a gate as a DYI project, using 2-by-4 wood. The wood can be stained or painted. Painting the wooden gate white will give the gate a traditional country look. Decorate the gate with county or "carriage style" hardware for the latch and hinges. Plant iconic country flowers such as sunflowers or black-eyed Susans, or climbing vines or roses to grow around the country gate. Add vintage metal advertising signs and for a more "artsy" look.
3. Make a gate that's eclectic. You can use unconventional materials such as the bed springs, or re-purpose an old wooden door. Use fence posts to give structure for the gate. Give it an eclectic look by painting the slats and boards of a wood gate different colors. Instead of painting the wood one uniform color, use several. Pick up color schemes from your house. For example, to decorate a gate for a white house with blue shutters, you can paint the wood slats white, blue and orange. Or, you can create a floral mural as the backdrop on a white painted gate. Plant orange pansies, white alyssum and blue creeping phlox in containers. Place the containers by the gate exterior, or use the flower color scheme to plant the flowers in the ground by the gate entrance.
4. Attach and "repurpose" bed springs to a wood or metal frame and posts to attach the bed spring. The posts can then serve as a structure to decorate the gate with trailing and climbing vines and flowers. Consider bougainvillea or mandevilla for a colorful planting. Either will provide a colorful contrast between the weathered rust color of the springs and the vivid pink colors of the bougainvilleas, or the pink, white or yellow colors of mandevilla. Get small pictures or tiles from yard sales or discount stores, and give them a protective coating of a polyurethane varnish and attach them to the springs of the gate. Create an arbor over the gate for the plantings in a contrasting color.
5. Give your gate a modern look by using wrought iron. The key to creating a modern look is to take a "minimalist" approach in terms of the materials used to form the gate, staying away from ornate decorations and embellishments. Keep accents simple, such as a custom monogram of the initial for your family's last name, or add your address on the gate. Use simple planters such as enamel containers to flank the gate. Keep plantings simple and stately, such as a dwarf juniper, prune a rose bush into topiary or pot one variety of flowers such as fuchsias or petunias to drape over a container.
Tags: your gate, climbing vines, color scheme, country look, decorate gate, flowers such, gate from
Letterboxing is an exciting pastime enjoyed by both adults and children. Your kids will enjoy the hunt, and you will get some exercise too!
Instructions
1. Explain to your children what letterboxing is all about. You're going to go on an "adventure," trying to find a "secret treasure" in the woods, that somebody has hidden for you to find. You'll put on your hiking clothes and comfortable shoes or sneakers, and pack up your gear in a backpack.
2. Gather your notebooks and rubber stamps. If you are just starting out, or a casual letterboxer, purchasing a rubber stamp is acceptable. Go with your children to the craft store and let them pick out their own. This should get your children more excited about the activity.
3. Research a good spot to find a letterbox. Visit www.letterboxing.org for a comprehensive list of letterboxes all over the world. Or, do a basic Internet search. Read the information on the letterboxes carefully, to try to find one that seems simple enough for children. Avoid long, steep hikes if possible.
4. Print out your clues and pack your backpack. Be sure to pack water and snack, and maybe even a special treat for the children. When you reach the letterbox, have your children open the box and use the stamp in the box to stamp their own notebooks, and vice versa. Allow your children to flip through the letterbox notebook to check out all the interesting stamps there. Point out how long ago people visited, or if visitors came from another town or state.
5. Sit down, take a rest and eat your snack. Praise your children if they were able to find the letterbox.
A security door is designed differently from ordinary doors found in homes. You can remove a steel security door yourself should you wish to replace it with another type of door. A few tools that most homes have on hand will be needed; they're available from a hardware store at a minimal cost if necessary. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Place a stepladder against the side of the steel security door to keep it from falling over. Unlock the steel security door.
2. Remove the screws along the bottom of the door with the electric screwdriver. Pull the horizontal metal header strip off the bottom of the door. Place the header strip away for safekeeping.
3. Grip the head of the hinge pin seated in the hinge attached at the bottom right edge of the door frame with a pliers. Pull the pin out of the hinge. Repeat this procedure with the hinge pins in the other hinges attached to the door frame.
4. Pull the door away from the door frame. Unscrew the hinges from the edge of the door with the electric screwdriver. Place the door away for safekeeping.
5. Remove the screws from the vertical metal header attached to the right side of the door frame with the electric screwdriver. Place the header away for safekeeping.
Tags: door frame, security door, away safekeeping, electric screwdriver, steel security, with electric, with electric screwdriver
Sage is an herb native to areas of the Mediterranean and Asia Minor that has long been used in religious and spiritual ceremonies and as a cure for various ailments. Sage is often sold in bundles or "wands" that are bound together by string or ribbon. You can use a sage wand in the same way you would use incense. Sage smoke may be helpful in treating respiratory ailments. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Find a fire-proof container. Make sure the container is big enough to hold the entire length of the sage wand. A thick bowl will usually work, but be careful not to pick it up while the sage is burning, as the bowl may retain heat.
2. Light the end of the sage wand with a match or lighter. You can also break off a portion of the wand and light it separately if you don't want as much smoke. Allow a small flame to develop and then blow out the fire. The sage should now be smoking.
3. Set the sage wand into the fire-proof container. Make sure doors and windows are closed, as wind can cause chunks of the sage to fly out of the bowl and pose a fire hazard.
4. Allow the sage wand to smoke until it has burned out. Pick up the wand and smudge the smoking end into the bowl if you'd like to stop the smoke before it has burned out. Do not run the sage under water.
5. Inhale the sage smoke to help treat respiratory ailments such as coughs or bronchitis.
6. Break up pieces of a dry sage wand and add them to a bath or a pot of boiling water for tea to potentially help break a fever and cleanse the body of toxins. Make sure not to drink the pieces of sage.
Tags: sage wand, Make sure, container Make, container Make sure, fire-proof container
Power spraying helps remove rust and paint from wrought iron.
Power spraying is one of the most common methods of removing paint and other finishes from wrought iron surfaces. Power spraying involves applying a high-pressure stream of water to the surface of the iron. This method is useful in removing rust from unfinished wrought iron fences or for stripping the surface before applying a finish. Don't clean a painted wrought iron fence with a power washer unless you intend to refinish the structure. Using power spraying as a routine method of cleaning your painted wrought iron fence can cause the finish to chip and peel. Does this Spark an idea?
Area Protection
Power spraying distributes a large amount of water in a short amount of time. Protect nearby plants and grasses from the hard spray by placing plastic sheeting over the adjacent lawn or flowerbeds. Remove any vines that twine around the wrought iron fencing. Use the plastic sheeting to cover painted areas of adjoining wooden walls or structures to avoid damaging these other surfaces.
Avoid Weak Welds
Check the integrity of your wrought iron before power spraying it. Wrought iron fences contain forged and welded steel. Although this material is resilient and sturdy, weak joints and areas of improper welding may buckle under the pressure of a power sprayer. Avoid directing the spray toward any weak areas along your fence. Rather than spraying these delicate areas with the power sprayer, use a small bristle brush to scrub the surfaces gently.
Pre-Cleaning
Removing as much rust and chipping painting as possible before spraying will reduce the amount of water and pressure necessary to create a bare finish. Spray a mild detergent over the surface of the wrought iron and scrub the surface with a small sponge or brush. Use the power sprayer to remove only the most stubborn areas of rust and paint.
Method
Start cleaning the wrought iron with the lowest setting on the pressure sprayer. Adjust the setting to the minimum level required to remove the rust or paint from your wrought iron fencing. Using the lowest possible setting will help protect nearby areas from overspray. Use a fine spray pattern around detailed metalwork to remove the debris and rust from these narrow crevices. Apply a rust-proof product that contains phosphoric acid to any remaining areas of rust. This substance helps remove any rust left behind after power spraying.
Tags: wrought iron, power sprayer, remove rust, rust paint, wrought iron, your wrought iron, amount water
There's simply no quick fix when it comes to repairing the paint on wrought iron furniture.
When the correct type of paint is applied to wrought iron furniture, the finish should never peel or chip. If you noticed problems in the finish of your wrought iron furniture, it was likely initially primed or painted with the wrong materials, or the application process was not carried out correctly. If you need to repair the paint on wrought iron furniture, you'll have to do more than just touch it up with fresh paint, or you will see a repeat of the problem relatively soon. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Lay the wrought iron furniture on top of a heavy-duty fabric drop-cloth.
2. Remove any loose or peeling paint by scraping it with a wire brush. Do not just concentrate on the obvious areas. Run the wire brush across areas that look smooth to see if additional paint peels up.
3. Smooth any rough areas of paint using 80- to 120-grit sandpaper.
4. Apply blue painter's tape to any areas you do not want painted.
5. Spray etching primer onto the wrought iron furniture. Apply only a thin coat to prevent runs or drips. Allow the etching primer to dry and cure for four hours.
6. Apply an oil-based paint using a 2-inch oil-based paintbrush. Apply only a thin coat. Allow the surface to dry for two hours, and then apply at least one more coat.
Tags: wrought iron furniture, iron furniture, wrought iron, Apply only, Apply only thin, etching primer
While many people might think white beds are boring, there are nearly endless decor options with white beds. With a little planning, you can create an entire bedroom theme around a white bed. Whether you want a calm, subdued look or a colorful room, you can find a great style to match your white bed. Does this Spark an idea?
All-White Whimsy
An all-white bedroom is a beautiful, calming retreat for a young girl or woman. This style works best in a sunny, window-filled bedroom. You already have a white bed and white bedspread, so there are countless other white and pale yellow touches you can add to create a pure white haven. Choose sheer white or lacy white curtains for the windows, allowing lots of natural light to spill in. Add a variety of white pillows, in satin, lace and silk. Select some pillows that are small and round and others that are larger and square. When using a one-color theme, mix fabrics and sizes for variety. Choose pillows with tiny, pale-colored details on them, like pale yellow stitching or light pink ribbon. If you have wooden furniture that is darker, white-wash the furniture to make it lighter. Choose picture frames that are white-washed for a distressed, antique look, but fill them with bright pictures for a burst of color. For a luxurious touch, place a vase of creamy white roses or white and pale green hydrangeas on your desk.
Seaside Bedroom
For another calm look, but with a much more colorful twist, create a sea theme around your white bed. Utilize pale greens and various hues of blue, turquoise and cerulean for an ocean retreat in your home. Cover the bed in blue and green pillows, and buy a deep blue blanket to fold at the end of it. Buy two lamps that have an empty glass base, and fill it with sand and seashells and place them on your bedside tables. For window treatments, drape a mixture of sheer fabric in teals and turquoises over a wrought iron curtain rod. If you can paint the walls, choose a sea-foam green or a light blue that will remind you of the ocean. Buy an ocean-scented candle, and frame a few photos of your favorite ocean spots. With little effort, you have created your own ocean in your room.
Princess Party Bedroom
For a young girl, a white bed is the perfect place to start for creating a princess-like room. Use anything lacy, pink and purple to create this look. If the bed has a canopy, use pink or purple sheer curtain, or drill holes in the ceiling around the top of the bed and hang curtain from there. Buy pink, purple and white pillows to throw on the bed, and place a soft pink blanket at the end of the bed. Select a white and pink floral pattern to make window treatments, and buy a small pink-and-white rug to place in the center of the room. If you can paint the room, buy floral stencils and stencil a pink and yellow or green and pink floral border around the top of the room. For a special touch, buy a small, low white table and set it with a plastic pink tea set in the corner of the room. Finally, purchase a small tiara to hang on the bedpost or place on the dresser, and you have the perfect princess room.
Tags: pink purple, much more, pale yellow, pink floral, theme around
Promptly remove rust from a metal fence before it spreads.
Rust forms when exposed metal comes into contact with moisture and oxygen. Reddish-brown in color, rust is unsightly and corrosive. Rust on a metal fence can eventually spread and corrode the entire fence. A rusty metal fence is both unpleasant to look at and dangerous. Remove rust from a metal fence at first sight to prevent it from spreading and protect the appearance and stability of the fence. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Brush as much loose rust from the fence as possible. Use a dry scrub brush to sweep rust from larger surface areas. An old toothbrush can be used for smaller, hard-to-reach areas.
2. Sand the fence with 80-grit sandpaper. Sand lightly using a circular motion to further remove flaking rust from the fence.
3. Saturate paper towels with undiluted white vinegar. Lay the vinegar-soaked paper towels onto the rusty areas of the metal fence.
4. Allow the paper towels to sit on the fence for at least 30 minutes. Leave them on longer if the rust is extensive or if it does not appear to be dissolving.
5. Remove the paper towels from the fence. Scrub the rusted areas of the fence with a scrub brush or toothbrush dipped in vinegar.
6. Wipe down the fence with a wet rag followed by a dry rag. Reapply vinegar soaked paper towels until the rust has all been removed.
7. Use borax and lemon juice for an alternative method for removing rust from a metal fence. Combine equal parts borax and lemon juice into a large bowl. Saturate paper towels with the solution and lay them on the rusted areas of the fence. Leave them on the fence for at least 30 minutes. Wash the fence with a wet rag and dry with a clean rag.
8. Make a solution of cream of tartar, hydrogen peroxide and baking soda for yet another method for removing rust from metal. Combine 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 tsp. cream of tartar into a large bowl. Slowly add hydrogen peroxide, stirring as you are pouring it, until a thick paste forms. Use a rag to dab the mixture onto the rust spots. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes. Wipe clean with a wet rag followed by a dry towel.
Tags: rust from, metal fence, paper towels, fence with, from metal, rust from metal
Durable model trains, tracks and accessories are often made of steel.
Hobby railroading for both indoor and outdoor use requires tracks, trains and accessories made of tough materials, such as painted steel that can handle water and temperature extremes. As of 2011, Eaglewings Iron Crafts fabricates a variety of metal products for hobby railroading, in addition to their regular line of metal fences, screen doors, gates and custom wrought iron artworks created at full scale for residential and commercial use.
History
Founded by Dan Hoag in January 1983, Eaglewings Iron Craft initially sold metal fences, gates and window guards, and later expanded into fabricating weightlifting equipment for gyms in Phoenix. As his welding business grew, Dan discovered a passion for hobby railroading and began producing small metal bridges for O- and G-scale model trains to sell to railroad hobbyists. In late 2000, Eaglewings Iron Craft began producing other accessories for model train sets, such as tracks, signal bridges and water towers, and later, miniature steel buildings.
Model Train Accessories
Eaglewings Iron Craft fabricates steel, miniature model railroad bridges suitable for indoor and outdoor use in a variety of types, ranging from straight suspension bridges to truss bridges with curved decks. The company's line of model train accessories also includes steel buildings and structures, such as houses, town buildings, industrial buildings and train structures. Eaglewings Iron Craft also designs and manufactures overhead layouts for hanging model train tracks from ceilings and portable modular layouts to extend existing tracks or for temporary, special events.
Gates, Doors and Fences
In addition to model train accessories, Eaglewings Iron Craft fabricates custom decorative iron work for residential doors, windows, patios and backyards. Their portfolio of past work includes numerous wrought iron single and double entrance doors and security screens to add in front of existing solid entrance doors. The company also designs and produces unique wrought iron gates and fences for backyards, custom curved and straight balcony railings, metal window guards and decorative wrought-iron planter boxes.
Furniture and Art
Available in custom sizes and colors, Eaglewings Iron Craft produces a line of iron furniture suitable for indoor and outdoor use, including high- and low-back chairs, round end tables, coffee tables, full-height dining tables and unique table and chair sets that slide together to fit in small patios and yards. The company also produces a line of solid-steel entertainment rides for adults and children in the form of moving train rides and rotating rides, called Tumbleweeds. Eaglewings Iron Craft fabricates metal art pieces as well, including custom signs, weather vanes and decorative steel cutouts.
Tags: Eaglewings Iron, Eaglewings Iron Craft, Iron Craft, Craft fabricates, indoor outdoor, Iron Craft fabricates, model train
This is simple wrought-iron fence that should be relatively easy to paint.
The easiest way to repaint a wrought-iron fence -- and to have your paint job last as long as possible -- is to prepare the fence correctly before painting. If the fence has spots of rust (and it's hard to imagine why you would be repainting it if it did not), and you leave even a little on the fence, the metal will continue to deteriorate under the new paint and you will have more rust, and another paint job to carry out, within a very short period of time. Exactly how you prepare the fence depends to some degree on how intricate the ironwork is. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Remove the Rust
1. Put on heavy work gloves, safety goggles and a respirator. Scrub the fence with a wire brush to remove flaking paint and rust. If the paint on the fence has bubbled, there is a rust underneath. Break through the bubbles with a screwdriver and then scrub with the wire brush. Remove deep rust with a coarse file. In place of a hand-held wire brush, you could use a wire wheel brush attached to an electric drill for this step.
2. Sandblast the fence if the ironwork is too intricate to clean with a wire brush. Rent or buy a portable 10-gallon sandblaster and a compressor. Assemble and operate the device according to the manufacturer's instructions. Sandblasting will take the fence down to bare metal, so you can skip steps 3 and 4.
3. Place several sheets of old newspaper under the fence to avoid damaging plants, grass or building materials such as brick. Spray every surface of the fence with a commercial rust remover. This will get rid of any rust you have missed. You can buy rust remover in a spray can, but if your fence is more than about five feet long, you would do better to rent a paint sprayer from your hardware or home improvement store. Assemble and operate the sprayer according to the manufacturer's directions.
4. Sand all surfaces of the fence with 80-grit sandpaper. Use a sanding block that will conform to the surfaces of the fence to make this job as easy as possible.
Prime and Paint
5. Clean the fence with a solution of TSP and water applied with cloth rags. Rinse the fence thoroughly and allow it to dry. Primer and paint will stick much better to an absolutely clean, degreased fence than to one on which you have not taken this extra step.
6. Brush or spray on a coat of rust-inhibiting metal primer. Your choice of whether to use spray cans or a paint sprayer will depend on the size of the fence. If you have not placed old newspapers under the fence, do so before you apply the primer.
7. Paint or spray the fence with black rust-resistant paint for metal. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for how many coats you should apply and how long you should wait for each coat to dry.
Tags: fence with, wire brush, with wire, with wire brush, according manufacturer
A wrought-iron wine rack is aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Proper storage impacts the flavor of your wine. A wrought-iron wine rack stores your wine bottles horizontally to keep the cork moist and prevent air from entering the bottle and altering the flavor. Like any other surface, a wrought-iron wine rack exposed to smoke can become smelly, as smoke residue builds up. A smoke smell on your wine rack can easily transfer to your wine bottles. You can avoid this situation by getting the smoke smell out of your wine rack with cleaning supplies commonly found in the home. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Rubber gloves protect the skin from irritating cleansers.
Put on rubber gloves to avoid skin irritation from the ammonia solution.
2. Pour 1 gallon of hot water into a bucket. Add 1 cup of household ammonia.
3. Wet a sponge with the ammonia-and-water mixture. Wash the wrought iron to remove smoky-smelling residue. Use a nylon scrub brush to clean in the grooves and crevices.
4. Rinse the wrought iron by wiping it off with a damp cloth. Dry the wine rack thoroughly to ensure that no moisture is left on the surface.
5. Move your wine rack outdoors or open a nearby window. Allow the fresh air to further deodorize the iron for two to three hours.
Tags: wine rack, your wine, wrought-iron wine, wrought-iron wine rack, your wine rack
An Italian-themed party is a great way to celebrate the flavors and style of Italy.
An Italian-themed party can be a fun way to get together with friends and enjoy spectacular food. Along with Italian wine, play Italian music in the background to entertain your guests---and prepare your home with Italian d cor to carry the theme. Does this Spark an idea?
Table D cor
Nothing says Italian like a red-checked tablecloth. Along with the main courses for your Italian night, you should keep bottles of Italian wine on the table at all times. Use empty wine bottles in woven wine baskets to hold candles for the table. Dripping candle wax down the sides of the bottle gives the table the cozy appearance of an Italian bistro. Bowls of olives and grapes to eat and to decorate the table will give your Italian party an authentic Italian appearance. You can add wrought iron baskets to hold bread for your Italian meal, and glass bottles of red wine vinegar and oil are attractive and useful.
Grapes and Vines
Use grapes and vines to decorate with throughout your home. Hang clusters of grapes and vines in various areas of the house, such as the walls, to give the appearance of an Italian vineyard. If you have your party outside, use your garden and string grape vines throughout the garden area.
Italian Flag
Use red, white and green, the colors of the Italian flag. Tie sashes to the backs of each chair at the dinner party in each of the different colors. Weave the colors together or use them separately to create a festive appearance.
Art
If you have prints by Italian artists, bring them out for the occasion. Also, include prints of Italy for decorations in your party room.
Tags: your Italian, Along with, appearance Italian, baskets hold, grapes vines, Italian wine
Iron can be used to make decorative pieces for a household. Items, such as doors, fences, chandeliers, curtain rods, candleholders and wall hangings can all be made from iron. The decorative piece should be routinely cleaned to remove dirt, dust and residue. Never use abrasive cleaners or harsh solvents for cleaning, as it can scratch the surface or cause discoloration. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Fill a sink, basin or bucket with warm water and liquid dish soap
2. Dip a sponge or clean cloth into the soapy water. Wring to remove excess water.
3. Rub the cloth or sponge into the decorative iron to clean dirt, dust and residue.
4. Dampen a soft cloth in cool water. Wipe down the decorative iron to remove all soapy residue. Be sure all residue is removed, or it will look dull and cloudy.
5. Dry the decorative iron with a towel. Remove all water and moisture to prevent rust from forming.
Tags: decorative iron, decorative pieces, dirt dust, dirt dust residue, dust residue, Iron used
Fences add privacy and beauty, but proper etiquette must be followed.
For homeowners with outdoor dogs, fences are a way of life. But even those without pets sometimes choose to put up privacy fences as a way of defining their yard space and enjoying their property without feeling as though they are on display. Fences not only add enhancement to a backyard, they can act as safety measures, keeping others from trespassing. With all of their benefits, though, privacy fences have a code of etiquette that should be followed.
The Ugly Side
Probably the No. 1 fence etiquette no-no is giving your neighbors the ugly side of your fence. Many homeowners decide that since they are paying for the privacy fence, it should be their right to look at the finished, pretty side when enjoying their backyard. While there is a certain logic to this way of thinking, etiquette maintains that the rail side should face inward. Some housing association regulations actually insist this be the case.
Property Lines
One of the most common disputes between neighbors is where one person's property ends and the other property begins. When putting up a privacy fence, etiquette suggests placing it in a couple of feet, just to make sure every bit of the fence is on your property. This not only avoids a property dispute, but it will legally forbid the neighbor from putting any items on his side of the fence.
Joint Construction
When a neighbor already has an existing fence, it can save time and money to simply build your own privacy fence together with the side that already abuts your lawn. However, fence etiquette requires that you discuss this with the neighbor and make sure he doesn't mind.
Maintenance
Keeping a fence well maintained not only protects your property but it is an important aspect of fence etiquette. That doesn't mean you have to repaint the fence every summer, but it does mean taking care of rot or wide sections of flaking paint. The fence may belong to you, but everyone in the neighborhood has to look at it.
Neighbor Notification
Perhaps the most important aspect of fence etiquette is to simply consult with the next door neighbors before putting it up. It is not their right to tell you whether you can have a fence (unless you live in a deed restricted neighborhood that does not permit fencing), but they should be notified in advance. This is particularly true if you anticipate workers being on their property while constructing the fence.
Tuscan home design uses the rolling Italian countryside as inspiration.
Inspired by the rolling Italian countryside, Tuscan design consists of hand-painted ceramics, Italian art and rustic farmhouse style. Tuscan design adds a certain richness and natural beauty to any kitchen or living room. Italians consider the kitchen an extremely important room, used for socializing and entertaining as well as cooking. Add some Tuscan design ideas to your rooms to create a functional, cozy space for preparing food, eating and relaxing. Does this Spark an idea?
Tuscan Mural Backsplash
Add a touch of Italian rustic charm to your kitchen with a mural backsplash. Look for painted mural tiles depicting a typical Tuscan scene, such as an Italian farmhouse or a field with a castle in the background. The mural will become a focal point in your kitchen, so place it behind the stove or the sink, whichever is the most visible. If you have a mural backsplash, any remaining backsplash behind the counter tops should be plain, or it will detract attention from your masterpiece. Another option is to paint your own mural on plain tile using tile paint.
Flooring
Changing the flooring in your kitchen and living room can add to the Tuscan atmosphere. Typical Tuscan flooring choices include stone, marble, terra cotta, slate, hardwood and mosaic tile. Choose your flooring based on your everyday needs and your color scheme. A mosaic tile floor works best with neutral cabinets and counter tops. Wood floors work well with most colors and styles and are easy to maintain. Area rugs in the living room help tie in the floor with the room's decor.
Furniture
A large, wooden farmhouse-style table in a large kitchen adds a hint of Tuscany without overdoing it. For a more eye-catching kitchen table, look for a wooden table with mosaic tiling in the center or around the edges. Chairs and occasional tables in dark wood and wrought iron are typically Tuscan. For an elegant addition to the living room, find a velvet cushioned chaise lounge with a wrought-iron frame or claw feet.
Colors
Typical Tuscan color schemes are neutral with one or two splashes of color. Kitchen cabinets and living room furniture in deep brown or tan form a base for the color palette. Rusty fall colors such as burnt orange, rich gold and deep red add a touch of subtle color while staying within the color family. The occasional olive-green or deep-blue painting, frame or dish set adds a colorful accent and brightens up the room.
Tags: living room, Tuscan design, your kitchen, counter tops, Italian countryside, Italian rustic
Many people love the look of iron furniture but are stumped when it comes to choosing a wall color to go together with the furniture. An iron bed can vary from a silvery color to painted irons to black wrought iron, which can make choosing paint even more difficult. Fortunately, several color combinations blend well with iron furniture. Does this Spark an idea?
Cool Shades
Iron frames often come in shades of black, gray and silvery metallic tones. With these tones, you can choose to use cooler shades on the walls. This includes shades of blue, green and purple. With a shiny, chromelike finish on the iron, consider using a shade of light gray or smoky blue on the walls. Meanwhile, matte finishes could look fantastic when paired with a shade of lavender, though they can also work well with blues and grays.
Warm Shades
Iron bed frames can also come in warm shades of gold and bronze, so it's only natural to pair the furniture with a wall color that is equally warm. Of course, warm shades do not have to be bright or vivid. A soothing golden beige or a rusty brown are both ideal for use with golden- or bronze-colored iron bed frames. Those who are willing to be more vibrant can consider using autumn colors such as a vivid mustard yellow or bright pumpkin orange.
Neutrals
No matter what color the iron bed, neutral wall colors are always an option. They are functional, easy to work with and often light and airy. When choosing a neutral color, such as beige, be sure to pay attention to the undertones. An iron bed that has a brassy color to it can be downplayed by using a beige with cool undertones, or it can be made a focal point, drawing attention to it by using a beige that features warm, golden undertones. Black iron beds are often easier to work with, as black goes with neutral shades of any color without any hassle or stress.
Bold Colors
Those who are looking to make a statement may wish to consider pairing their iron bed with a bold color. For black iron beds, consider using an eggplant or plum purple, as these pair well and allow both the bed frame and the wall color to stand on their own in the overall design of the room. Other colors, such as brassy iron, can pair well with a bright shade of barn red, though be wary of sunshine yellow as this can create a look that is overdone. For metallic silvers, consider using a bold turquoise like that of the Mediterranean sea, or a grassy green.
Tags: consider using, well with, Iron frames, pair well, wall color
Handrails are a safety feature outdoors or indoors.
People sometimes choose handrails for their aesthetic or creative appeal. In addition to being attractive to look at, handrails are also meant as an important safety feature. Handrails are a vital safety feature on both indoor as well as outdoor stairs, decks, platforms, landings, porches and other related structures. Sometimes, falls are exacerbated when a person grips a handrail that is not safe to begin with. A handrail is a pipe or a bar on brackets that is attached to a wall. It is meant to give you a continuous hold if you are using the stairs. Does this Spark an idea?
Bending
One type of handrail design is the bending handrail. It is defined as a spliced handrail for bending. A bending handrail comes in more than 30 species of wood that are between 8 and 20 feet in length. This kind of handrail is skillfully made so it easily bends in many staircases. The profile of a bending handrail is slender and large, and its proportions allow you to install it either at your business or in your home.
Quarter Turn
A quarter-turn handrail is yet another type of handrail design. Such a handrail features quarter-turn fittings that are already fixed to the ends of the handrail. This type of handrail only needs handrail brackets to be properly attached to the wall. A quarter-turn handrail is, according to Stair Supplies, ideal for capping iron balusters or for plans that call for a handrail design of a shorter nature. A quarter-turn handrail is available in several types of wood, some of which are red oak, birch and American cherry.
Returned End
Returned-end fittings are already affixed to the ends of a returned-end handrail. This kind of handrail is easily attached to the wall through the use of handrail brackets. A returned-end handrail can be almost 3 inches at its widest point, while in excess of 2 inches at its tallest point. A returned-end handrail is known as a strong handrail that is useful for commercial applications. The length of this handrail can be anywhere from 3 to 20 feet.
Wrought-Iron Handrails
Wrought-iron handrails are yet another design of handrails. Wrought-iron handrails are known to be durable and long lasting if you take care of them. They are used to make your property look interesting and to erect barriers. Wrought-iron style handrails can also be made out of steel and are available in colors other than black.
Copper is one of the best materials to use when creating handmade garden decorations. Soft copper tubing is flexible, can be easily cut and ages beautifully in an outdoor setting. Make a fountain using copper planters accented with copper tubing, created spouts. Shape your tubing into a large spiral, hang glass beads or crystals around the frame and place it among your azaleas. Create copper flowers using copper sheeting you can find at your local hobby supply store and copper tubing shaped like stems. Cut the petals from the sheeting and attach them to the tubing with solder or waterproof adhesive. You can add solar lighting to the center of the flowers, or add them to your copper fountain, letting water flow from the tubing. Copper sheeting may be shaped into hummingbirds, butterflies, ladybugs or anything else you would naturally find in your flower beds.
Wrought Iron
Creating metal garden decorations from pre-made shepherd hooks, old wrought iron gates or a simple wrought iron frame requires wire, glass elements, plants along with a bit of imagination. Make small signs for your herb garden with small shepherd's hooks and painted clay. Larger shepherd's hooks placed on either side of an entryway or garden path is perfect for hanging plants, ceramic features and lighting. Place an old wrought iron gate as the backdrop for your vegetable garden or at the entrance to your wooded pathway. Create works of art with a square or rectangular metal frame, hanging a combination of crystals, glass beads, and vintage toys or garden tools. Your garden art can include anything that has the right scale for the frame and that works well inside of a collage.
Chandeliers
Finding chandeliers for five dollars at a yard sale is the beginning of some lovely and unique metal garden decorations. Spray paint your chandelier with black rust preventive paint and add crystals to create an elegant, timeless statement for your garden. Paint the chandelier any color at all and dangle pieces of stained glass or stainless steel forks and spoons from its arms. Creating metal garden art is subjective; your piece should reflect your style and sense of whimsy. Hang your chandeliers from a lighted tree or wrought iron trellis for effect. Replacing the light bulbs with candles for dinner parties or adding solar lights will also brighten your garden in the evening.
Tags: copper tubing, garden decorations, metal garden, shepherd hooks, wrought iron, Creating metal, Creating Metal
An iron fence post is set in concrete before fencing is attached to it. The concrete can be several inches wide on each side of the post and 24 to 36 inches deep. The weight of the concrete and post combined can make removal of the post seem impossible. When an iron fence has served its purpose or has simply rusted out, the old posts are removed before the new fence posts are installed. Cutting the old fence posts off at ground level and leaving the concrete base in the ground isn't recommended. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Dig a 6-inch-deep and 6-inch-wide trench around the concrete base of the iron post.
2. Hook a garden hose to a water source and turn it on. Fill the trench with water using the garden hose. Allow the water to soak into the soil.
3. Dig down into the wet soil until you reach dry soil again. If the digging is easy then keep digging, but if it gets hard then fill the trench with water again. Dig down until you can move the fence post back and forth in the hole. The concrete base should be able to freely move around in the hole. If you can't lift the iron post and concrete base up out of the ground with the help of an assistant, use a chain and a pickup truck to pull it out.
4. Wrap a 20-foot-long chain around the middle of the concrete base and hook the hook-end back to the chain.
5. Wrap the other end of the chain around a ball hitch on the bumper of a pickup truck and hook the hook-end back to the chain.
6. Put the truck in a low gear and drive forward until the iron post has been removed from the hole.
Tags: concrete base, iron post, back chain, base ground, chain around
Headboards can give a bed a more formal appearance, while creating a nice focal point in the room. They can also be functional, as in the case of a bookcase headboard. In some beds, the headboard is a necessary part of the bed frame, which is made up of three metal rails and two feet, or two metal rails and a foot board. In these beds, the headboard legs also serve as the two legs at the head of the bed. In other beds, the headboard is detachable and purely decorative; the metal bed frame is totally independent and the headboard is optional. The procedure for attaching the headboard to the bed varies slightly, depending on whether the headboard is part of the bed frame or detachable (also called a clip-on headboard). It's easiest to perform this task with help from a second person. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Built-in Headboards
1. Using nuts and bolts or screws, assemble the two side bed rails to the foot board or bed rail that sits across the foot of the bed. The end result should be a "U" shape.
2. Stand the headboard upright against the wall. There will be two legs that extend to the floor. The bed rails will attach to the front of the legs.
3. Place the bed rails in front of the headboard, with the open part of the "U" facing the headboard. Examine the legs of the headboard and the ends of the bed rails to locate the screw holes on each.
4. Ask a helper to hold up the end of one of the bed rails, so it's horizontal to the floor while you align the screw holes and insert the screws or nuts and bolts that will attach the headboard to the rest of the bed frame. If a second person is not available, place books under the bed rail to hold it horizontal to the floor; if it's not perfectly horizontal, the screw holes won't align at the point where the side rails meet the headboard.
5. Attach the other bed rail to the headboard as in the process explained in step 3.
6. Push the bed into its final location and replace the box spring, mattress and bedding.
Detachable/Clip-on Headboards
7. Remove the bedding and remove the mattress and box spring from the bed.
8. Locate the screw holes that will be used to attach the headboard to the frame. Every bed frame has screw holes for a headboard; often, there are several located along the length of the top bed rail, designed to accommodate different headboard styles. The screw holes will be located on either end of the bed rail at the head of the bed. If you cannot locate the screw holes, check the rail that goes across the foot of the bed--you may have the bed frame flipped.
9. Locate the screw holes on the headboard. The headboard will have 2 legs; the screw holes will be located on the legs.
10. Stand the headboard up against the wall or have a friend hold it upright. Push the bed frame up against the headboard. As you do this, align the screw holes and then insert the screws or nuts and bolts.
11. Push the bed into its final location and replace the box spring, mattress and bedding.
Tags: screw holes, beds headboard, nuts bolts, across foot, against wall, align screw
Mixing and matching is a modern home decorating trend used in interior design. Blending and harmonizing multiple color schemes of wrought iron furniture can create an eclectic and inviting decor. In order to effectively decorate with different colored pieces of wrought iron furniture, color blending and strategic placement will help unify the living space. Varying colors of wrought iron furniture and blending wrought iron accessories help to create a modern and visually appealing interior and exterior home design. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Choose neutral wrought iron colors. Select wrought iron tables, chairs and accent furnishings that have neutral color tones. Wrought iron furniture that is beige, cream, brown or white tends to mix and match with almost any other wrought iron color. Neutral color tones blend and harmonize with other shades regardless of placement or location in a room. Opt for wrought iron furniture that does not have dark or unusual colors in its design.
2. Use patterned accessories to combine the two colors. Choose fabrics and accessories that blend two or more wrought iron colors together. Incorporate all of the wrought iron colors into striped place mats, patterned glassware, pottery and multi-colored throw rugs. These linens and accessories take several wrought iron colors and unify them into a coherent design. Strategically place these harmonizing accessories on or near both pieces of wrought iron furniture.
3. Select wrought iron finishes that have varying flecks of color. Mix two or more wrought iron colors for decorating by choosing a finish that has another fleck of color in its original design. Most wrought iron pieces of furniture have a small fleck of another color in them. Brown wrought iron wall hangings, benches and tables often have a darker black or a lighter tan fleck in their coating. Complement the room by adding another decorative wrought iron furnishing that is the the same color as the fleck in the other piece. Blending these two colors of wrought iron will unify the room's design.
4. Separate the wrought iron colors to avoid clashing. Place two different colored wrought iron pieces of furniture on opposite sides of the room. This method of mixing two or more wrought iron colors allows you to decorate without having to harmonize the two pieces. Just as you might mix a tan leather sofa with a black wooden entertainment center, you are decorating with two entirely separate furnishings in the room. For example, place a black wrought iron bistro set on one side of the room and put a tan wrought iron bench against an opposing wall.
Tags: wrought iron, iron colors, wrought iron colors, iron furniture, wrought iron furniture, wrought iron, color tones
Outdoor metal furniture requires routine cleaning and maintenance to keep it in good shape. Dirt, grime and other forms of debris make the outdoor furniture grungy and unsightly. Ultraviolet waves and harsh weather conditions cause even more serious problems, such as faded and chipped paint, oxidation and rust. Restoring and refinishing outdoor metal furniture is much more economical than replacing the furniture. The important thing is to clean and repair the furniture before the damage becomes too severe. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Wash the metal furniture with a mild detergent and sponge or brush. Scrub the metal furniture to remove dirt and grime. Rinse the furniture with a garden hose. Allow the furniture to air dry.
2. Knock off loose paint chips and flakes with a wire brush and putty knife. Sand the rough areas with 60-grit sandpaper until the surfaces are smooth and even.
3. Inspect the furniture for signs of rust. Outdoor metal furniture is exposed to moisture and other natural elements and this makes them naturally prone to rust. Rust begins in chipped and nicked areas where the bare metal is exposed. Completely remove the rust to protect the furniture. Scrape off loose rust with a wire brush. Sand the removing rust with medium grit sandpaper until the bare metal is exposed.
4. Repair holes and damaged areas with metal filler patching compound. Matching compounds are available at hardware and home supply stores. Follow the instructions on the container. Patch the holes and allow the patching material to dry for the recommended length of time. Sand the repaired areas with 320-grit sandpaper until the surface is smooth and even.
5. Apply several light coats of rust-inhibiting metal primer to the furniture. Rust-inhibiting metal primer is available in aerosol spray cans at auto parts stores. Hold the nozzle 8 inches from the furniture and spray on the primer using slow back-and-forth motions. Allow the primer to dry between coats.
6. Sand the furniture lightly with 320-grit sandpaper. Sand the furniture until it feels smooth to the touch.
7. Paint the furniture with metal paint. Follow the same procedure used for applying the primer. Apply several light coats. Allow the paint to dry between coats.
Tags: metal furniture, areas with, furniture with, sandpaper until, with wire brush, 320-grit sandpaper, Apply several
Rust has a way of finding its way into a lot of pieces of metal, and stopping it before it gets too bad is really important if you want to keep that item in one piece. In the case of a metal railing, if the rust is allowed to grow the structural integrity of the railing will come into question, and may fail when you need it most. Fortunately, fixing it is easy and just takes a few steps. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Rub the red scuff pad over the portion of the railing affected by rust. This is going to loosen up the surface rust on the metal and prepare it for paint. If the damage isn't too bad, you can move on to Step 4.
2. Insert the wire brush into the drill and tighten the chuck.
3. Turn on the drill and run over the metal with the wire brush. This is going to remove all of the rust from the surface and prepare it for paint.
4. Wipe the area clean with the shop rag to remove any rust dust.
5. Spray the area with the spray paint. This is going to protect the railing from future rust.
Tags: This going, prepare paint, remove rust, wire brush
Miniature iron warriors are used in museum displays as well for historical dioramas.
Painted iron warriors are most often used in dioramas or role-playing games. They are small and require precise brushwork, but with good lighting and a bit of practice, you can learn to paint miniature iron warriors.
Instructions
1. Remove the iron warrior from its packaging. Use a hobby knife to remove any "flashing," or bits of metal left on the seams. Use sandpaper to smooth any rough surfaces.
2. Use a wet rag and a weak soapy water solution to clean the surface of the iron warrior, then dry it with a towel. Place the iron warrior on a piece of cardboard to protect the surface of your work area.
3. Apply a primer paint layer. Use pure white if the warrior will be painted a light shade, pure black if the warrior will be painted a dark shade. Let the primer layer dry for half an hour.
4. Apply a layer of paint to the larger areas first, like capes or overcoats, then move to the details, like buttons and belts. Let each layer of paint dry for half an hour.
5. Spray the warrior with a layer of paint sealant once the top layer of paint has dried. Perform this step outside or in a well-ventilated area.
Tags: layer paint, iron warrior, iron warriors, half hour, warrior will
Old-fashioned bathtubs are made of a cast-iron body with a porcelain glaze baked over it to provide the shiny white enamel surface. The porcelain can wear and discolor over time so that even though the tub may be structurally fine, it looks awful. Professional reglazing is an option but an expensive one. You can do it yourself by acid-etching the surface and applying several layers of specially formulated enamel paint. Find a good reglazing kit, and rent a paint sprayerfrom your home improvement store. Does this Spark an idea?
Clean and Prepare the Tub
No matter how well you apply the new enamel, it won't adhere properly if there's caulk, dirt or grime under it. Use a razor knife to cut out any old grout around the border of the tub. Scrub the whole tub thoroughly with an abrasive cleanser. Remove or tape off the faucet, drain rim and any other fixtures. Tape off the walls and floor around the tub. If any of the cast-iron understructure of the tub is exposed by design (i.e., a claw-foot tub in which only the well is coated in porcelain, with the outside presented in cast iron) tape off and cover all the non-porcelain areas.
Acid-Etch the Surface
Even if the enamel surface of your tub is already worn and dull, it all needs to be de-glazed before you can proceed, or the new coat of paint won't stick. Use the acidic etching agent provided in your kit, or from your home-improvement store, to eat away the gloss of the porcelain. The etching agent goes on like paint, and you leave it on for about 15 minutes, then thoroughly rinse. Wear thick rubber gloves and goggles when applying the etching agent.
Prime and Paint
Put on a respirator. Use your paint sprayer to apply the primer, which provides a bonded surface for the new enamel paint to adhere to. Spray it very lightly, starting from the top and working your way down into the tub, making sure not to let any drips form. (The primer is darkly colored so that you can see when you've got full coverage against the white porcelain.) Apply two coats, waiting 30 minutes between them.
Spray your topcoat of white paint-polyurethane mix in the same manner--very lightly, just covering the surface, then waiting 30 minutes and coating it again. Spray on at least three coats of topcoat, and as many as five, to get full, smooth coverage.
A security screen door is a type of storm door that can be installed on the exterior entrances of the home. These units are used in conjunction with traditional entrance doors to add extra security and protection. They may be built from steel or aluminum, and often feature glass panels in addition to screens. Security screen doors not only help protect the home, but are an effective way to let more light and natural air into your home. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Examine the exterior side of your entrance door. Most security screen doors are installed into an existing door frame. Rather than fit into the frame itself however, they are installed within the brick molding that surrounds the frame. This molding is often a bit wider than the frame itself, and extends a few inches past the front (exterior) portion of the frame. When measuring for your door, be careful to measure the brick molding and not the frame itself.
2. Use your tape measure to find the height of the brick molding. This measurement should include the distance from the ground to the bottom of the molding. Repeat this process so you have two separate measurements for the height, taken at either end of the opening. This way, if the opening is not square, you will be able to find a door that can accommodate the variations in the molding size.
3. Determine the width of the opening at three separate points. Measure the the top, bottom and center of the opening so you have three measurements for the width. Because walls are often not built perfectly square, the frame will likely have different measurements at various points along the height of the opening.
4. Evaluate the measurements you took in Steps 2 and 3. If the frame is not perfectly square, you will have several different sizes for height and width. When choosing your door, use the smallest measurement you found for the width and the smallest dimension you found for the height. With security doors, it is often difficult or impossible to cut the door to fit the opening. It is usually easier to adjust a smaller door to fit in a slightly over-sized opening.
5. Purchase your door. Most manufacturers provide doors that will fit a small range of frame sizes. Find the range that matches the measurements for your frame to help you choose the right unit.
6. Use a Z-bar extender to fit standard security doors into a very large opening. Most storm doors come in a standard range of sizes and may not fit into larger frames. If this is the case, find a door that is an appropriate height for your frame, then add a Z-bar extender to fill in additional space along the width. The Z-bar is installed between the molding and the door hinges. This device can be found at most hardware and home improvement stores.
Tags: brick molding, door that, frame itself, your door, door Most, find door
Everyone likes to hang with like-minded people. Straight and gay people don't always understand the issues and concerns of the transvestite community. So if you move to a new city or are just tired of your regular group of friends, there are a number of ways you can find transvestite social circles. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Ask around. If you meet another transvestite in a social or work environment, casually ask the person where you might find others who share your lifestyle. While some transvestites may be in the closet and not willing to share information with you, odds are that he will be more than happy to point you towards some fun locations.
2. Go to gay or lesbian bookstores and look at the bulletin boards. Most independent bookstores provide a place for groups to hang announcements of their meeting times and places.
3. Avoid ads or blogs that are strictly sexual. They can draw a crowd that may be dangerous or unappealing. You may find more trouble than friendships or camaraderie through those kinds of sites and classifieds.
4. Use online sites such as the few listed below that are more intellectual and socially oriented for groups that will be safer for you to attend for the first time. Once you go to a group, you can get a better idea of the members and decide, in a safe environment, if you want to stay and participate with the social circle there.
When it comes to pricing that antique Woodard patio set, you don't want to entrust a family heirloom to any Joe off the street. It's important to find someone who will give you an honest and accurate estimate, especially if you need to get rid of some antique furniture to pay bills or make the move to a smaller house.
Instructions
1. Take some pictures of your patio furniture with a digital camera, being sure to zoom in on any serial or model numbers. These numbers are usually located on the bottom of the seat and/or table when you turn the furniture over.
2. Locate a certified appraiser in your area using the International Society of Appraisers' (ISA) search engine available online.
3. Make a checklist of things you need to ask an appraiser if you find one in your area. The ISA website posts a document listing seven questions you should ask your appraiser, information that a competent appraisal should contain, as well as when to not accept an appraisal.
4. Contact Vintage Swank, an online collector and retailer of vintage clothing and furniture, if there isn't an appraiser in your area. You can reach them via email 24/7 to send pictures to them for an online appraisal.
Tags: your area, appraiser your, appraiser your area
To give an infant's nursery an antique look, antique reproduction furniture may be used in conjunction with real antique décor. Polished wrought-iron with mahogany hardwoods and authentic vintage artwork create a look that is timeless and elegant. Does this Spark an idea?
Selecting the Perfect Crib
Buying a crib that is an antique reproduction may be a good idea to eliminate the possibility of lead paint contamination.
Round cribs are an excellent choice for adding a touch of stately, old-world flair. Most commonly made out of wood which is stained dark or painted white, they may also be manufactured from wrought iron.
In choosing a round crib, a luxurious option is the Frette wrought iron round crib from Jen Klair Kids. Available in several different finishes, this crib may be an excellent choice for those who are thinking of purchasing a family heirloom that can be passed down through the generations. Warm colors pair well with a rust or antique gold finish. A white powdered sugar finish may complement traditional nursery colors such as pale blues and pinks quite well.
Storage
There are many storage options that will work well with an antique theme. An old chest can become a home to baby's first toys and blankets. Authentic antique wooden dressers may be purchased and either refinished, painted white or designed with a crackle finish.
Beautiful new antique reproductions can be purchased at The Bombay Company. The Essex Highboy is a choice that works well with both warm and cool colors. Two large, two medium and three small drawers provide an ample amount of storage space for baby's clothing and linens.
Color, Lighting and Decor
Many colors will work well with an antique nursery. Whether your colors are warm and rich or soft pastel, choosing a paint that has a matte, eggshell finish will give more of an antique look to the walls. If hardwood floors exist in the nursery, antique rugs that match the chosen color scheme are appropriate.
An antique or reproduction mini crystal chandelier may look chic centered above a round crib of any style. The light should be connected to a dimmer switch to allow you to get around the room late at night. Authentic antique lamps with frosted glass that produce soft lighting are an appropriate choice for an antique-themed nursery.
Consider purchasing genuine vintage prints when choosing artwork to decorate the nursery. Locating antique illustrations or reproductions depicting traditional nursery rhymes is fairly easy to do online. Choose artwork that has personal meaning or that simply matches the chosen color scheme.
Tags: well with, antique look, antique reproduction, round crib, with antique, Authentic antique, chosen color
Small backyards present a challenge for the homeowner to create usable space without the feeling of clutter. Whether you live in a townhouse or detached home, your small backyard constitutes a portion of the living space on your property. But even the smallest patios can become a haven for entertaining friends and family with proper planning. Does this Spark an idea?
Design
Glance out your back windows from at least one level above your backyard, if possible. There's quite a bit of space there. Your backyard isn't simply a flat surface. Instead, consider the small backyard as an area containing multiple levels. Some levels can be added, some will be created by illusion with plants and containers and others can be designed with terraces or structures.
Using space appropriately in a small backyard requires choosing a definite focal point. Maybe you adore fountains or love rosebushes. Both could be a focal point. Focal points become the center of a garden or landscape. Avoid choosing trees in a small backyard space unless your choice grows very slowly. The patio, table area or wooden deck could be your focal point as well. Simply choose the aspect of your small backyard that you want to enhance the most, and build around it for a pleasing design.
Elements
Landscaping involves certain elements to create a unified design. Balance involves creating equal plantings within similarly shaped gardens. In small backyards, symmetrical garden shapes can make the space look smaller. Consider creating irregularly shaped gardens to draw attention away from the small space. If you have a fence, don't line the fence with a simple rectangular garden. Create curved gardens in the corners to draw the eye up to the flowers and create the illusion of additional space. Irregular shaped or curved gardens also soften the illusion of sharp edges in a square or rectangular backyard.
Unity of landscape design involves choosing similar plants and colors to create a theme for the garden. Always research which plants work best in your area. Most individuals want a small backyard garden to look planned and groomed. Overgrown wildflowers might be beautiful, but the chaos makes the space look smaller. You need to incorporate space between plants within your gardens to increase the feeling of openness.
Height and Hardscape Features
Height becomes a primary tool when considering plants for small backyard gardens. Adding taller plants to the back of gardens and building forward with lower plants creates the illusion of depth to the garden. If you choose to edge your patio area with a garden, choose low-growing ground cover or annuals to delineate the patio. Add height to the patio area with groups of containers of varying heights. Include a trellised plant such as a mandavilla or topiary on your patio.
Wrought iron, freestanding plant hooks can easily be stuck in a garden to create the illusion of height. Place hanging baskets with trailing vines on the hook to add a splash of color higher in your garden. Adding small, tailored terraced areas can create more planting area in a small backyard while still maintaining the sense of space.
Create interesting textures in your gardens by using mulch to protect your plants with added moisture and weed suppression. Add areas of pea or river gravel to create pockets of visual impact without great expense. Choose rocks that match the home exterior or patio color so the effect is sublime rather than harsh. In the same vein, select small fountains or water features to blend into the limited space. Water features can provide a dramatic focal point for your backyard living area without overwhelming the space.
Tags: small backyard, focal point, your small backyard, area with, create illusion
Collecting scrap metal can be a great source of bringing in an extra income, aluminum, copper, and brass a worth quite a bit these days. This article will discuss a few ways to find scrap metal for free, not only van you make money recycling the metal but sometimes people will actually pay you to take it !
Instructions
1. The simplest way to get scrap metal is to save your aluminum cans ( below is a link to an article on recycling cans for money ) crush them and place them in bags for easy storage.
2. Construction sites are loaded with copper, Wire scraps and pieces of copper tube left over from electricians and plumbers will be lying all over the place, be sure to get permission from the head foreman before entering a construction site. Often just asking nicely can yield you a truckload of copper !
3. Brass is also a high paying scrap metal, My number one source for brass is public gun ranges. I go at dusk when everybody is done shooting and pick up the empty brass casings ( i also know people who reload ammunition, so certain calibers i will clean and sell to them ) Be sure not to get in anybody' s way while picking up the empty casings.
4. Another good way to get free scrap metal is to put an add on craigslist or in your local paper for scrap removal, a lot of people have scrap metal lying around and don't know that its worth anything, they will be happy for you to get it out of their way, you can even charge a small fee for this and double your money. People have paid me to take their aluminum siding and old metal sheds !
5. Keep an eye out while driving too, the side of the road can be a gold mine for scrap metal, old catylitac converters that fell off somebody's exhaust contain platinum , ( platinum is worth more than gold ) Also watch what people put out on garbage night, old appliances can be taken apart and stripped for their copper and other valuable scrap metals.
You can add some wooden window grilles to your home for a hint of Victorian styling. They are easy to make out of thin wood strips using a half-lap joint. You can custom make the size for each window, stain or paint them and install them yourself. You can go with multiple squares, or make them with only a sparse grid pattern. Start out by making a grid for a 24-by-36-inch window.
Instructions
1. Turn off the power to your table saw. Install the dado blade on your table saw. Raise the blade to 1/4 inch from the tip of the highest tooth to the point where the blade emerges from the table. Turn the power back on.
2. Set the fence 12 inches from the blade. Set the table saw miter gauge on the table saw at 90 degrees. Place the longest strip on the table saw in front of the miter gauge and slide it to the right until it touches the fence. Turn on the saw.
3. Push the miter gauge forward very slowly. Push the strip over the blade to cut a dado across the bottom. Flip the strip end for end and cut another dado. You should now have a stick with two dadoes 12 inches apart, 12 inches from both ends.
4. Place both short strips together in front of the miter gauge. Slide them over to touch the fence. Hold onto both of them together and slide them over the blade to cut them both at the same time. You should have two sticks with a dado in the center.
5. Squirt a small bead of glue into all the dadoes. Lay the long stick down with the dadoes facing up. Place one short stick on top, and one short stick on the bottom perpendicular with the long stick, mating the corresponding dadoes together to form a grid. Tap the dadoes together with a hammer. Place a small hand clamp across both half-lap joints. Wait 24 hours for the glue to dry.
Tags: miter gauge, dadoes together, front miter, front miter gauge, inches from, long stick, over blade
Iron accessories can be used to decorate the home, lawn and garden. They are typically made from wrought iron, cast iron or steel. The materials differ in how they are processed and their carbon content. This affects their strength and durability while their appearance may appear to be the same. Cast iron is the most durable type of iron and the least susceptible to rust. Does this Spark an idea?
Home Accents
Iron accessories can give a room a vintage or other-worldly touch. Provide a living room 18th-century charm with a glass or marble coffee table supported by curvy wrought-iron legs. A cast-iron pot holder embossed with the image of a grapevine gives a kitchen the ambiance of an Italian villa. A cast-iron fireplace screen accented by decorative swirls and arches evokes the feel of a medieval castle.
Lawn Accents
Iron products look natural, historic and stand up well to the elements. An elegant iron lantern casting a gentle light will give your yard a European allure. For the air of a royal courtyard, install iron steps leading to a stone fountain adorned with trailing ivy and roses. An iron bench offers a lovely spot to read a book, sip tea or nestle with a lover.
Garden Accents
Iron accessories instantly establish a theme. Iron planters containing blue water lilies impart an Egyptian flair. Iron candle holders hovering above flowers give your garden a mystic, ethereal appeal. Iron trellises covered with climbing hydrangeas or morning glories lend your garden a romantic touch.
Tags: Accents Iron, Iron accessories, Accents Iron accessories, give your, your garden
Porches may have seemed to be a thing of the past, but with today's new emphasis on community, they are making a comeback. Many new homes are being built with porches that are more than just a place to stamp your feet before entering the house. Creative design and decorating ideas can turn your porch into extended outdoor living space. Does this Spark an idea?
Porch Railings
Besides keeping your family and guests safe, railings can add their own touch of style to your porch.
Wooden railings with carved or turned spindles work well on Victorian style homes, such as Queen Anne. They are also common on American Country and farmhouse styles. Paint wood rails the same color as siding for a uniform look, or go with a complimentary color for added contrast.
Wrought iron railings give your porch more of an open feel. They can be purchased at your local hardware store in easy to assemble prefab sections and can be installed on all porch floors from wood to concrete.
Tall columns can extend your porch into the second story, creating a "portico" feel. Add wood or iron railings between columns or forgo railings altogether on short porches to provide a better view.
Roofs and Enclosures
Porches can be covered in a variety of ways from open garden structures to solid conventional roofing.
Use a trellis or pergola overhead to provide shade while leaving your porch open to the sky. Vines or hanging plants can be grown on these wooden structures to provide even more shade and add a rich, colorful element to your porch.
Enclose your roofed-in porch with large screens to protect from insects and extend your porches usefulness. Storm windows can be added to make the porch usable all year round. Take them down in the warm weather to enjoy the breeze.
Traditional roofing can make a sturdy support for hanging flower baskets, a porch swing or even a hammock. Be sure you use adequate hanging hardware to avoid embarrassing accidents and damage to your roof.
Decorations and Furniture
Porches can be decorated much the same as the interior of your home. Choose colors and textures that appeal to you to make the porch more comfortable.
Sisal rugs, tile and painted floor boards are just a few of the options available in flooring. Choose materials that will stand up to the weather and will not become slick and hazardous when wet.
Movable planters, window boxes and hanging baskets allow flowers to be grown right inside your porch. A touch of garden gives a fresh look and feel to any porch. It might be just the splash of color you've been looking for. Choose heavy planters with rugged finishes that will weather well. Window boxes can be hung on the wall of the house, or from the front porch rail.
Wicker, rattan, metal, wood and plastic are the main components in most outdoor furniture. Be sure to choose yours for comfort as well as style. Large overstuffed cushions are an excellent way to add comfort, and they can be taken in during inclement weather.
Tags: your porch, extend your, iron railings, make porch, porch into, porch more
Whether you are decorating a table for an elegant dinner reception or a casual summer garden party, pillar candles can help you achieve the desired look. Versatile pillar candles come in a wide variety of colors and scents, which makes it easy to customize the centerpiece. Combine the tall candles with unexpected items, such as fruit and beach toys, to create inspired table decor. Does this Spark an idea?
Rustic Centerpiece
Enhance a country-inspired dinner table with a rustic candle centerpiece. A wrought iron, punched tin or time-worn white metal lantern will set the stage for casual decor. Fill the lantern with a pillar candle featuring an earthy tone such as rust red, burnt orange, olive green or burnished gold. A spattering of real or faux autumn leaves or a wooden bowl filled with red and green apples will accent the look.
Beach-inspired Centerpiece
Design a breezy beach-inspired centerpiece to accent a summer soiree or picnic table. To create the simple centerpiece, fill a vibrant red, yellow or green plastic sand bucket halfway with sand. Nestle a white or brightly colored pillar candle into the sand. A handful of small seashells can be used to accent the sand surrounding the candle. A seahorse or sand dollar-patterned table cloth or runner will enhance the themed centerpiece.
Fruity Centerpiece
The combination of fresh fruit and candles makes a sweet, summer-inspired centerpiece. Choose a fruit that coordinates with the party color or decor theme. A hollowed-out pineapple becomes a stunning pillar candle holder for a tropical-themed event. Cut a watermelon in half, scoop out the fruit, and use the shell as a holder for several pink or green pillar handles. Jelly beans can be placed around the candles to create a secure fit. Use the scooped-out fruit to create refreshing salads, appetizers and desserts.