Wrought Iron Fencing Components

Unlike standard chainlink fences, wrought iron fences have a number of components.

Whether you're just a curious homeowner or you have a wrought iron fence in need of repair, it's important to know the parts of your wrought iron fence in case you ever need to replace them. If you're fixing an older fence, try to find out when the fence was constructed before you start your repairs. True wrought iron fences haven't been produced since the 1960s and 1970s. Today, iron fences are usually constructed from galvanized steel. Does this Spark an idea?

Pickets

The vertical bars of a wrought iron fence are known as pickets. Often round, square or hexagonal in shape, pickets can stop flush with a smooth, fence edge or can have a variety of tips--from a pointed spear tip to a curved, combined hairpin end.

Rods

The horizontal bars on the fence that go from left to right are known as rods. Each section of wrought iron fence can contain just a few rods, found at the top, bottom and middle, or many rods throughout a panel, depending on the construction of the fence.

Posts

At the end of each panel or section of fence, a wrought iron fence will have a post. If the wrought iron fence is in a simpler style, fence posts are probably basic, straight-line posts or short-panel posts, which often look like a shorter section of fence. However, if the fence is elaborate, solid square fence posts or open fence posts with scroll work are more the usual style.

Finials

Decorative tips that fit over the end of a picket are called finials. Usually pointed, finials are available in a variety of styles, but be sure to check the picket type the finial is made for before you buy. Many finials will only fit over certain types of pickets.

Caps

Like finials, caps are meant to add a decorative element to the fence. Typically rounded or ball-shaped, caps usually sit in or on top of fence posts and serve to break up the visual monotony of picket spears.

Shoes

If your wrought iron fence is connected to a porch, a sidewalk or a building in some way, the bottom of your wrought iron fence probably has shoes. Shoes are bases for the wrought iron posts and, sometimes, pickets, which typically screw or nail into the ground to hold the fence in place.

Tags: iron fence, wrought iron fence, wrought iron, wrought iron, fence posts, your wrought iron, iron fences

Decorate An Outdoor Bistro

Add your own bistro style to your patio.

An outdoor bistro for a house, condo patio or apartment balcony means sunshine, moonlight, fresh air, some rain, some heat, some cold and quite a few insects. But neither pests nor rain, heat nor cold should dampen your spirits. Your bistro is for enjoying the outdoors, expanding your living space, creating your own oasis, hanging out with friends and creating more storage. Source out flea markets, garage sales and your own basement, attic or garage and reuse items. In a weekend or two, you can have your very own outdoor bistro. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Decide Use of Space

1. Lounge or party at will.

Decide how you want to use your space. A small condo patio can accommodate lounging with a book, having a drink with someone and some storage. Bigger spaces can accommodate a group.

2. Define your space. Determine how your intended activity might disturb the neighbors. Consider the views you enjoy and those you'd rather not see: the night sky may be fabulous, but the trash might also be within sight.

3. Be vigilant about your privacy. Strategically position plants, sheer and natural fiber curtains, room dividers, plant trellises, or a chiminea for privacy and ambience.

Plan and Budget

4. A limited budget is fine for a simple outdoor bistro.

Crunch your numbers. Decide on your color scheme and limit your decorating style options to one theme such as Tuscan, Mediterranean, Asian, tropical, contemporary, English/French country, rustic, Mission or shabby chic.

5. Decide on basic pieces you want to put in: bistro table set, benches with storage, lights, heating or cooling source, grill, music source and pest control. Ottomans and storage chests multitask as chairs, side tables, a coffee table and storage; citronella candles are light sources great for pest control; hanging/potted plants provide privacy, temperature control, ambience and a pleasing aroma.

6. Sketch your plan or use design software.

Install Your Outdoor Bistro

7. Use plants strategically for privacy, to enhance or camouflage.

Cover the "uglies." Paint the ceiling a cheerful color; the floor with a faux stone finish or wooden deck tiles; camouflage with a plant trellis or room divider; position stone sculptures or tall plants to cover a wall crack.

8. Enhance the positive by accessorizing. String lights on your natural tree canopy or porch swing. Enhance the outdoor feeling with wind chimes and tinkling fountains.

9. Choose weatherproof materials. Cheesecloth curtains and a wrought-iron sofa with waterproof pillows easily dry in the rain.

10. Use stoneware planters instead of plastic pots.

Avoid plastic for a luxurious feel to your bistro. Opt for natural fibers in different textures. Use stoneware.

Tags: outdoor bistro, condo patio, Outdoor Bistro, pest control, your bistro, your space

Decorating Ideas For Bistro Design

Wrought-iron and red accents are part of a bistro design.

Bistros are cozy, with a distinctly European feel. Perfectly decorated, they should evoke a feeling of friendly, casual dining. The bistro design is used in kitchens, as the word bistro (originating from the French word "bistrot") refers to a small, unpretentious restaurant. Decorating ideas for bistro design include warm, bright colors, wrought iron, cafe-style furniture, and accents such as grape designs or wine themes. Does this Spark an idea?

Colors

Bistros usually have at least one bright accent color, such as yellow or red, coupled with warm neutrals, such as rich browns and creams. Try painting your walls a medium shade of brown, with one red accent wall. Place a bowl of yellow lemons on the counter or in the middle of the table. Alternately, use a vase of yellow daisies. For even more color, add a throw rug under the table in your chosen accent colors.

Furniture

To create an authentic bistro feel, choose a black wrought-iron table and four matching chairs. This should be a small, cafe-style table. For a more modern bistro look, choose an equally small black counter-height square table and chairs made from wood. A third option is a green wrought-iron set instead of black. Whichever you choose, warm it up with colorful cushions on each chair. In addition, if you have the space, place an armoire with glass doors in the room and display colorful ceramic crockery on the shelves.

Accessories

The rooster is a symbol commonly found in French country design. Try displaying a wooden or ceramic rooster on top of an armoire or buffet. Place a series of colorful ceramic plates on plate holders along a shelf. Hang posters from wineries on the wall, and hang some cafe curtains in the windows. Display your favorite wines on a countertop wine rack and drape some silk grapevines over the curtain rod.

Tags: bistro design, colorful ceramic

Recycle An Old Cast Iron Bathtub

Revive an old tub once it's removed from the bathroom.

Whether your cast iron bathtub looks old and outdated or you want to install a large garden tub in your bathroom, you still have an opportunity to create an attractive masterpiece with the fixture you are removing from your bathroom. Recycling options range from repurposing it inside the home to creating an outdoor decoration to removing it from your property completely. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the tub in one piece, if at all possible. If you must break it into pieces, sell it to a metal recycling plant for a minimal amount.

2. Contact an area farmer to see if he would like to plug it and use it as an animal watering trough. He may be willing to pay for it, or you can benefit simply from his willingness to haul it off for free.

3. Place the tub in your garden or front yard for use as a quaint flower planter.

4. Save the tub for future use at parties and other get-togethers. Fill the tub with ice and place bottled and canned beverages inside to chill them for your crowd.

5. Cut the tub lengthwise, keeping all four feet intact. Sand the cut edge of the tub and then paint it to match your home's decor. Make or buy a coordinating cushion for the bottom of the tub, and use it as an eclectic seating option in your home.

Tags: from your, removing from, removing from your, your bathroom, your home

Find Discontinued Pottery Barn Items

Pottery Barn catalogs

It's a Pottery Barn lover's worst nightmare. You see an item in the Pottery Barn catalog or website that you absolutely love--be it a duvet cover, a lamp or a piece of wall art. But the price is a little high, so you decide to wait a little while for it to go on sale. When you check back on the Pottery Barn website a few weeks later, it says the item is no longer available. Well, all might not be lost. Pottery Barn's items are notorious for selling out--sometimes quite quickly and often before they ever have a chance to go on sale. But there are some options if that must-have item disappears from their website. Here's find discontinued Pottery Barn items. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Make sure you know the name of the Pottery Barn item you are looking for. If you just type "Pottery Barn quilt" or "Pottery barn lamp" in a search engine, you will get bombarded with results. PB is known for naming their items distinctive names and smart PB sellers know the names. Instead, try typing "Pottery Barn Brigitte quilt" or "Pottery Barn Gracie table lamp" to narrow down the item you are looking for. If you don't remember the name of the item you are looking for, call Pottery Barn customer service and describe the item.

2. Do a search on eBay. The auction site eBay.com is a great place to look for discontinued PB items. Smart eBay sellers have an eye for what's hot--and they often scoop up Pottery Barn items right before they are discontinued. But because eBay is an auction site you may have to bid against other buyers for the item you want. Don't want to deal with an auction? Do an advanced search on eBay for Buy It Now items only. Buy It Now items are available at a set price for immediate sale. There's also eBay Express, where items are also listed for immediate sale.

3. Do a search on Craigslist. Like eBay, Craigslist.com is a site where people list items for sale, and if you search "Pottery Barn" as a keyword, you will get many results. But Craigslist is very different from eBay. Many Craigslist sellers don't ship the items out--the buyer must come and pick it up (especially furniture items). And because Craiglsit.com is broken down into cities, you will want to do a search within the city closest to you. But some Craigslist sellers will ship the items out- so don't be afraid to check out the Seattle Craigslist even if you live on the East Coast. Keep in mind, however, that Craigslist doesn't offer the same buyer protection as eBay does. Be very careful when you do an exchange on Craigslist. And if you are a seller, be wary of accepting personal checks.

4. Check out a Pottery Barn retail store. If you are relying on just the PB website and catalog, you should take a trip to a Pottery Barn retail store. The retail stores often have items that are not available online or in the catalog. Furthermore, just because an item is no longer available online doesn't mean that the retail store doesn't have it. You can call ahead to the store nearest to you- or just take a ride over and try your luck.

5. Check out a Pottery Barn outlet. Pottery Barn outlets can be a gold mine for finding discontinued items. Most items are in brand new condition. Some of the furniture items may be scratched or slightly dented, but it is often not noticeable. And most Pottery Barn returns go straight to the outlets--so you can find lots of great items, usually at 40 percent off the original price. Discontinued items also get shipped to the outlets, so you can find a plethora of bedding, dishes, glassware and other items.

6. Post a Want it Now. If you have exhausted all other opportunities and still can not find that Pottery Barn item you are looking for, create a Want It Now post on eBay, which lists items that people are looking for. No matter what item you are looking for, someone, somewhere has it. And they just might be willing to sell it to you.

Tags: Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn, item looking, Pottery Barn items, retail store, auction site

Install A Gate

If you've got a pool in your yard or if you just want to keep people and animals from wandering across your property you need a fence to keep them out, and part of that fence is a gate. Here's a plan that you can easily adapt to build a gate to meet your needs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Installing Gate Posts

1. Collect the following:

2 x 3 lumber

4 x 4 fence posts

1 x 6 fence boards

Concrete

Measuring tape

Galvanized nails or non-rusting screws

Fence post digger (or auger)

Gate hardware (hinges and latch)

2. Use the fence post digger to dig 2 holes at least 3 feet apart. Remember, you want the gate to be wide enough to allow easy passage of yard tools and equipment into the yard (things like a wheelbarrow).

3. Ensure the holes are at least 2 feet deep and 10 to 12 inches wide. (If you live in areas where the ground freezes the hole should be deeper, probably 3 to 4 feet to get below the frost line).

4. Mix and pour cement into the holes, then install the fence posts.

5. Check and adjust the alignment of the posts so they are plumb and square to each other.

6. Allow the cement to dry/set up for 24 hours

Building the Gate

7. Measure and cut your 2 x 3's for the gate frame so you will have 1" of clearance on each side.

8. Layout the gate frame by placing 2 x 3's on edge and nailing the corners together.

Measure diagonally from corner to corner--and adjust the layout until the measurements are the same. (This will ensure the gate will be square).

9. Install corner bracing by measuring, cutting and installing a piece of 2 x 3 lumber running diagonally from corner to corner.

10. Measure, cut and install a piece of 2 x 3 (laid flat) horizontally across the mid point of the gate to act as a brace.

11. Attach your fence boards to the frame using galvanized nails or screws that won't rust. The boards should be flush with the edge of the frame and extend equally above and below the frame.

Installing the Gate

12. Place your gate between the fence posts and hold it in place with bracing so the bottom is properly positioned (raised off the ground) and the sides are 1" from the posts.

13. Attach a hinge to each of the horizontal framing 2 x 3's and then to the fence post.

14. Attach your gate latch to the other side of the gate and gate post.

Tags: fence posts, your gate, Attach your, diagonally from, diagonally from corner

Date Antique Iron Beds

Date Antique Iron Beds

Antique iron beds are a beautiful addition to any room. In order to date antique iron beds you need to be a detective. This process will involve interviewing witnesses, examining photographs and identifying markings and symbols. Follow these simple steps to date an antique iron bed. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Read about antique iron beds. This will help you to link specific styles and designs with specific periods of time, specific furniture movements, specific manufacturers and specific locations.

2. Ask the owner if they know anything about the iron bed. This can at least give you a date range and possible place of origin to work with.

3. Take several photographs of the bed including a front view, side view and rear view. You will also want to take close up shots of special details like flourishes, golf leaf, gilding and identifying marks and insignias.

4. Compare your photographs to images in your reference books. Try to date the antique iron beds by matching your photographs to a style of bed in your reference books.

5. Examine the bed for date markings. Some manufacturers included a cast impression of their company emblem and a date. These can be used to date the bed.

6. Examine the size of the bed. Most pre-19th century beds are going to be larger than singles. This is because people slept together to stay warm and to save money on furnishings. If you are looking at an antique bed that is a single and that also has a plain design then chances are it is not a pre-19th century bed. However, it could be older if the bed is a single and lavishly embellished.

Tags: iron beds, your reference books, antique iron, antique iron beds, Antique Iron Beds

Cook Pizza On A Wood Burning Stove

A wood burning stove adds warmth to the home and while it's hot, there's no reason not to exploit the heat in other ways, such as by cooking a meal. A pizza is perhaps the easiest (and least messy) food that can be prepared on top of a wood stove. Adding a lid or loose tent of aluminum foil traps heat around the pizza so the crust will bake light brown and crispy. This cooking technique works best (and saves clean up time) when a pizza stone is used. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Roll out the dough and place on the ungreased pizza stone, adding sauce and toppings to taste. Recipe ideas are linked in the resources section.

2. Place the pizza stone directly on top of the burning wood stove's flat surface.

3. Cover the pizza and cooking stone with a saucepan lid of the same diameter or create a loose tent over the pizza with a sheet of aluminum foil.

4. Bake a thin-crust pizza for 20 minutes on the wood burning stove, remove the covering and add shredded cheese, if desired. Bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and crust is brown and crisp. Increase the bake time to 40 minutes for a thicker crust.

Tags: pizza stone, aluminum foil, burning stove, loose tent, wood burning

The History Of Ancient Egyptian Furniture

The culture and treasures of ancient Egypt continue to be a source of mystery and fascination. Ancient Egyptian artisans were not only skilled sculptors and goldsmiths; they were also renowned for woodworking and furniture making.

History

It is difficult for historians to estimate when the first pieces of furniture were produced in ancient Egypt. Most of it was made of wood, which disintegrates over time. A number of scholars and sources note that Snefru, the first king of Egypt's fourth dynasty, brought "40 ships filled with cedar from Lebanon" in about 2600 B.C. The ancient Egyptian furniture collection in New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art dates from about 2800 B.C.

Furniture Types

Common items of furniture in ancient Egypt included wooden beds with mats of woven cords, chests, chairs and stools. Since wood was scarce, large furniture pieces were reserved for royalty or the wealthy. Coffins were also constructed of wood.

Wood

Although wood was available in Ancient Egypt---acacia, almond, poplar, sycamore and willow---much of it was scarce or not suitable for making furniture, so it had to be imported. Cedar was most commonly used for fine carpentry, and it was brought in from what is now Lebanon, Syria and Turkey. Other woods used included ash, beech, maple, oak and pine.

Construction

According to Nora Scott, associate curator of Egyptian art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, ancient Egyptian craftsmen were skilled in assembling furniture. They used many construction techniques used today, including mortise-and-tenon, butterfly and miter joints. King Tut-ankh-Amun's carpenters were the first to use metal nails in woodwork.

Ornamentation

Ancient Egyptian craftsmen were experts of decorative techniques; they decorated their furniture pieces with wood or ivory inlays and elaborate artwork. Royal coffins were carved with patterns and covered in sheets of gold.

Tools

A highly skilled Egyptian carpenter used simple tools consisting of a saw, axe, adze, chisel, mallet, bow drill and polishers.

Tags: ancient Egypt, craftsmen were, Egyptian craftsmen, Egyptian craftsmen were, furniture pieces

Spanish Decorating Ideas For Family Room

Spanish floor tile design

Decorating with a Spanish flair makes for a comfortable and inviting atmosphere which is perfect for a family room. Spanish colonial may come to mind as the definitive Spanish decor style, but trade between Spain and other European countries, such as Italy and France, produced a Mediterranean influence in architecture and home interiors that was embraced by the Spanish people. Spanish decor pulls design elements from Tuscan and French Country, as well as old world Spanish styles. Does this Spark an idea?

Paint

Spanish interiors are well-known for their boldly painted and equally pronounced stark white or cream walls. Aged wall treatments such as stucco, plaster and color washes create old world elegance. Touches of ocher, ocean blue, bright pink, bold red and terracotta make for a lively and cheery environment in a family room.

Metal

Metal door pulls

Iron and copper are prolific in furniture designs. Wrought iron table bases with glass or wood tops work well as occasional tables in the family room. Cut out wood panels in the front of an armoire or hutch and install hand beaten copper panels in their place. Create interest and texture on walls with wrought iron wall grilles. Add family photos to silver frames and place on table tops and walls. Too much metal makes for a harsh look, so intermingle metal with other materials such as tile, wood, fabric and textiles.

Wood

An essential element of Spanish style, distressed wood gives a rustic look to your family room. Add a distressed wood table with iron accents in front of a leather sofa. Combine fine hard wood pieces with rustic ones for a sophisticated look. Lay wood floors for warmth. In a larger room, make a bold statement with an over-sized hutch or entertainment center in fine or distressed wood. Place a painted wood table and chairs in a corner to create an area for activities such as playing games or doing homework. Install an antique or rustic wood fireplace mantel to add extra enjoyment while the family enjoys a roaring fire.

Hand-Painted and Terracotta Tile

Tile is a staple in the Spanish home. Combine hand-painted tiles to make patterns on shelves, table tops and floors. Use terracotta tiles throughout the room or combine with wood for more warmth. Install a mosaic tile design in the middle of the floor with brightly colored tiles or in front of the fireplace. Hang a tile medallion on the wall to create a Spanish-style aesthetic focal point.

Textiles

Handmade textiles are seen throughout Spanish interiors. Woven in traditional Spanish designs, brilliantly colored rugs warm tile floors. Hang a large wall tapestry in a family room with a high ceiling to make it more intimate. Place table runners on wood table tops to add a splash of color and texture. Keep handwoven throws out for family and visitors to cover up with while watching television, studying, reading or simply relaxing.

Tags: family room, distressed wood, table tops, wood table, Spanish decor

Hang Metal Art

Metal wall art comes in a myriad of finishes and styles. This art is varied enough to complement any décor and bold enough to stand on its own. A lot of metal art is very large, making it a practical choice for large, blank walls in foyers or hallways. However, metal wall art must be hung properly to avoid damaging your walls or the art itself. Doing this is no harder than hanging a regular picture frame; it just requires the right tools and materials. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Find heavy-duty wall-art hooks. The best hooks are those that are attached to the wall with a diagonally-hammered nail. Nails sturdy enough to hold the hooks in place are packaged with them.

Look for large hooks rated for holding objects twice the weight of your art piece. For example, if your piece is 20 pounds, find hooks rated to hold 40 pounds. The weight rating is marked on the package.

2. Decide where you want to hang your art and locate wall studs. Studs are 2-by-4-inch or 6-by-4-inch, wooden planks behind the wall surface. Turn on your stud finder and hold it against the wall. Slide it horizontally until it lights up or beeps. Mark this spot with a pencil and use the same technique to find a second stud.

3. Mark where you want to mount the hooks by making a small "X" at eye level on both studs. Use the level to make sure the marks are even with each other.

4. Hold a hook over one mark with your non-dominant hand. Feed the nail through the holes in the back of the hook. It should be angled downward with the point touching the wall through the center of the second hole.

5. Hammer the nail into place with firm, short taps. Repeat with the second hook. Hang the metal art on the hooks, lowering it gently into place.

Tags: hooks rated, into place, where want, your piece

What To Consider When Buying A Coffee Table

A glass top coffee table adds a sleek, modern feel to your room.

A coffee table is a staple furniture item in many living rooms, family rooms and dens. It can be used to showcase decorative items, hold beverages and store remote controls, magazines, books and other entertainment-related items. If you are in the market for a new coffee table, you may be overwhelmed by the number of options and styles that are available. However, keeping just a few key factors in mind while shopping can help ensure that you wind up with the ideal coffee table for your home. Does this Spark an idea?

Material

The material that a coffee table is made from has a major impact on its overall look. You can find tables in a variety of materials. Solid wood is one of the most traditional options because it is highly durable and can be incorporated into a variety of decorating styles. Glass top tables are an ideal option if you prefer a sleek, modern look, while wicker and bamboo complement a more casual design style. You can also purchase a coffee table that is made from particleboard and covered in veneer. It is a budget-friendly option but not very durable. Wrought iron, aluminum and acrylic are other material options for your table.

Style

In addition to its material, pay attention to a coffee table's style. If your home features a more modern style, opt for a table that has clean lines and a minimalist design. However, in a living room that features an Old World decorating style, opt for a coffee table that has carved legs and intricate detail work.

Shape

You can find coffee tables in a variety of shapes, but the most traditional is the oblong, which is almost rectangular but features rounded sides. A square coffee table can provide a symmetrical look, but they are often oversized and may not fit a smaller room. Instead, consider a circular table for a living room or den that is tight on space because it does not have any edges so it is easy to navigate around.

Size

Another important factor in finding the ideal coffee table for your home is size. Determine how much space is available for your table and consider the scale of the other furniture in the room. When purchasing a traditional oblong-shaped table, opt for one that is approximately half the length of the sofa and 20 to 30 inches in width. However, if you decide on a square or rectangular table, make sure that there are several feet between it and the couch so you and your family can maneuver around it. Remember to consider a coffee table's height as well. Traditionally, it should be about as high as the seat of your sofa. However, some modern coffee tables are purposely designed to be lower than the sofa for a more interesting look.

Storage

If your living room or den is short on space, you may want to consider a coffee table that provides room for storage. Some tables feature drawers beneath the surface, which are ideal for discretely storing items so the table itself does not become cluttered. Others have shelving beneath the table top where magazines, remote controls and other items may be kept. In addition, you can opt for a coffee table that has a lift top, which is an ideal spot to keep blankets and throws.

Tags: coffee table, coffee table, table that, coffee table that, living room, your home

Hang Heavy Art

Large paintings need to be securely hung to avoid disaster.

Care must be taken when hanging very heavy works of art on the wall, unless you are fond of crashing sounds in the middle of the night. Heavy art needs to be well supported so that it can be enjoyed with peace of mind. If you are not confident about your ability to hang it safely and properly, there are design and art mounting professionals who specialize in proper display and installation of all kinds of art.

Instructions

Stud Hanging

1. Pass the stud finder back and forth over the wall until it indicates the location of a stud. Mark the center of the stud.

2. Drill a pilot hole into the stud that is the same diameter as the shaft of the screw or hook that you are using, without the threads. This allows the threads to bite into the wood. If you are using a nail, no pilot hole is necessary. Drill the hole at the height where the wire will hang, not where the top of the frame will be.

3. Test the wire on the back of the work of art for strength. If either the wire or the hardware attaching the wire to the artwork appear to have any weaknesses, replace them.

4. Lift the picture into place and drape the wire over the nail, screw or hook. Lower the picture slowly so that it doesn't jerk the hardware that is supporting it.

5. Install two screws into adjacent studs if the picture you are hanging is particularly wide or heavy. Drape the wire over both of the screws. This will help to distribute the weight.

Drywall Hanging

6. Install two toggle bolts through the drywall. Make the space between them roughly one-third the width of the art you are hanging. If the art is 30 inches wide, put one bolt in 5 inches to the left of center and one in 5 inches to the right of center. This leaves 10 inches between the left side of the art and the left bolt, 10 inches between the two bolts and 10 inches between the right bolt and the right side of the art.

7. Turn the toggle bolt in order to spread the toggles tight against the back side of the drywall. Make them firm and solid, but don't overturn them and damage the drywall.

8. Hang the art on the toggle bolts in the same manner as described above for hanging art on the screws.

Tags: inches between, bolt inches, drywall Make, pilot hole, screw hook, toggle bolts

Funky Furniture Ideas

Even if you put a table cloth on it, it's not a conversation piece but a piece of trash.

Not every piece of furniture in around your home has to have been created specifically to furnish. Of course, that's not to say that an old toilet should be used as a planter in your front yard, or a rusty washing machine drum can serve as a fire pit in the backyard. There is a clear line between objects d' art and junk. If you can find collectibles that do not call to mind domestic grunge and rework them a bit, you create something artistic and practical for your home. Does this Spark an idea?

The Living Room

One of these would make the perfect coffee table.

Daybeds, when covered with tight-fitting mattress covers in upholstery fabric, make really comfortable couches. You can also use a large porch swing, suspended from a beam in your living room, as a couch. Load it with comfortable pillows and it will be the best seat in the house. An old door makes an interesting coffee table. Wood blinds make a funky room divider. Use an antique buffet for an entertainment center. Simply drill cord holes in the back with an auger bit.

The Kitchen

These wrought iron tables look even better spray painted in lime green.

Check around your community for restaurant auctions. Sometimes you can get great upholstered benches. Put one of these along your dining room wall. Add a table and some chairs on the other side. Outside furniture works well for inside, too, like an antique wrought iron patio set used as a bistro table. If you need a sideboard pick up an old TV in a wooden cabinet and paint it a bright color. You can pop out the screen and add a shelf. That makes a whimsical display and storage area underneath. Non-working refrigerators from the 1950's also make great shelving.

The Bedroom

Now you have a place for all those vintage hats you've been collecting.

Just about anything flat can be re-purposed as a headboard. Wrought iron gates look amazing but don't bump your head on them. If you don't want a headboard consider a display, like hat hooks on the wall behind your bed that display your vintage hat collection. You can use an old tin TV tray for a nightstand, unless you need a place to store books. In that case, a child's wood desk looks cute and usually lifts up for more storage underneath. Or, you can stack vintage suitcases or hatboxes for a small end table. Ladders are perfect places to drape extra bedding or stack books.

Tags: around your, coffee table, wrought iron, your home

Cute Daybed Styles

A daybed functions as a sofa by day and a bed by night.

Functional and versatile, a daybed is a good solution when you need a room to work as a living area during the day and a bedroom at night. However, function is not the only criterion to consider when shopping for a daybed -- style also matters. If the look you're after is cute and cozy, you're in luck, as there are many options that fit the bill. Does this Spark an idea?

Wrought Iron

Swirly, curly wrought iron, whether antique or new, is a charming look for a daybed. Wrought-iron daybeds may be left their natural black color, or painted, often white. When it comes to bedding, quilts, lace and ruffles go especially well on wrought-iron daybeds with lots of ornate detailing, and as a result look charming in a girl's bedroom or a quaint, cottage-styled guest room. Those made with straighter, less ornate detail look more masculine and tailored.

Sleigh

Sleigh-style daybeds are so named because the headboard and foot board both curve outward, resembling a sleigh. Sleigh-style daybeds offer a very classic, refined look that mixes well with most traditional decor styles. These daybeds are especially cute when they are painted white, or when the headboard and foot board have a more exaggerated curve. This style is quite versatile and looks appropriate with just about all types of bedding.

Victorian

Another charming style is Victorian. Victorian daybeds often feature ornate carvings and moldings for a vibe that is overall elegant and rich. They look especially pretty when dressed in lace, flowers and other feminine bedding, and go well in a feminine room.

Wicker or Rattan

While traditional white wicker furniture is cute, another charming option is the canopied, contemporary wicker daybed available these days. They resemble tents or tiny palaces. Some are designed specifically for outdoor use, but could also be used inside in a charming princess-themed room.

Contemporary

Cute doesn't always mean flowery and girly, and a contemporary daybed can certainly look cute. Just imagine a sleek, minimalist daybed painted in bright glossy orange, made up with a graphic, large-scale floral quilt and coordinated striped shams. Add a large, hot pink paper lantern above and a shaggy lime-green rug below, and you've got a super-cute contemporary look.

Tags: foot board, headboard foot, headboard foot board, made with, Sleigh-style daybeds

Diy Headboard With Plywood Or Osb

Create faux tufts with a stapler and glue a button over each one.

A headboard anchors a bed, turning it from a simple mattress on a frame into a substantial piece of furniture. However, headboards can cost a great deal of money. Custom upholstered headboards are very popular but, unfortunately, are one of the most expensive styles that you can choose. If a simple square or rectangular headboard is what you're after, construct one yourself from inexpensive plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). Once you have determined how big you want your headboard to be, many hardware stores will cut your plywood to those dimensions for you on-site. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Spread newspaper or a tarp out on a large flat work surface. Lay the plywood on top of the protective material. Measure the width of the wood; divide it into fourths and mark each section with a pencil.

2. Apply spray-on adhesive evenly to the first section of the wood, spraying in long, straight lines. Top the adhesive with a piece of foam batting, cut to size, with a utility knife so that all of the edges line up. Repeat this for the remaining three sections of the plywood.

3. Spray adhesive over the top of the foam batting. Set a sheet of quilt batting over the top with all the edges aligned then press down to secure it in place. If you can feel the divisions of the foam batting through the quilt batting, add a second layer.

4. Lay out a section of upholstery fabric that is 1 foot wider and 1 foot longer than the plywood with the patterned side down. Smooth the fabric and make sure there are no wrinkles. Lift the plywood and place it in the center of the fabric with the batting facing downward.

5. Fold the top and the bottom edges of the fabric in toward the center of the back of the board. Staple the fabric into place, keeping it taut.

6. Pull the sides of the fabric inward toward the center of the back and staple them into place. Make sure the fabric is still fairly tight so that the front of the headboard remains smooth. Tuck in each corner at a 90-degree angle, as if you are wrapping a package, and staple them into place against the back of the plywood.

7. Decide where you want to hang your headboard. Use a level to draw a guideline to show where the top edge of the headboard should sit. Attach one part of a flush-mount bracket to the back of the headboard with the included screws.

8. Measure the distance between the top of the bracket and the top edge of the headboard and mark this same distance down from your guideline on the wall. Attach the second part of the bracket to the wall at the mark. Hang the headboard by sliding the parts of the bracket together.

Tags: foam batting, into place, center back, edge headboard, quilt batting, staple them

About Ornate Metal Wall Decor

An ornate stand and pounded metal plate become a focal point.

Ornate metal as an art form has been around for thousands of years, often used in functional ways as stair railings and for protection in window grilles. With the advent of new techniques to this ancient art form, it's now easier than ever to have a one-of-a-kind piece that expresses your individual taste, be it contemporary or classic. With today's lavish colors, rich texture and graceful scroll work, metal art can lend a modern sophistication to any room. A large metal art piece has a greater impact than a painting and will quickly become the focal point of any room. Does this Spark an idea?

History

Wrought iron was first used in fences and railings and for protection.

What began thousands of years ago with an anvil, a forge and some hot metal has been resurrected into a contemporary art form with the advent of new techniques and equipment. Now, people who work with metal are not just blacksmiths but true artisans. Whether a home is Spanish in design or a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired contemporary, there's a piece of ornate metal art that's perfect for the walls.

Types

Today's metal wall decor can combine two different metals.

Today's metal wall decor can be forged from traditional iron, copper, bronze, aluminum or any other metal. It can be a heavy piece of old metal or a whimsical piece that weighs less than ten pounds.

Colors

Iron rose painted with an aged red color for a spectacular effect

The color variety of today's metal art is virtually unlimited, with the different types of metal each bringing their own patina. But today's wrought iron goes beyond that, with paints that can be applied to the metal. Gold leaf or stained glass are also added to wrought iron for a stunning effect.

Create Your Own

Turn a fireplace screen into a piece of unusual wall art.

By using a little creativity, you can create your own masterpiece of modern art. Think outside the traditional use of an item. Ornate metal trays and plates can be mounted on the wall. Fireplace screens with the feet removed are particularly striking as wall art. Abstract metal wall art can be paired with traditional furniture to create a different look.

Bring the Outdoors In

Carry the ornate metal look inside.

Traditional wrought iron used in the patio or garden can be brought indoors and used as wall art. Planters, wind chimes and a large trellis can be combined to liven up an indoor space. Carry the metal theme through by adding a metal bench for a pulled-together look.

Tags: metal wall, wrought iron, advent techniques, become focal, become focal point, focal point, metal wall decor

Discount Hotels In Nairobi Kenya

In Nairobi, East Africa's vibrant hub city, expect to rub shoulders with business travelers, diplomats, NGO workers and tourists on their way to destinations within Kenya, and to central and northeast Africa. Regardless of your travel purpose, the city offers a variety of hotel accommodations with rates under $100 per night. There is one caveat: Nairobi also teems with conference attendees, so book as early as possible to reserve the room you need at the price you want.

Six-Eighty Hotel

This spacious hotel offers "quality budget accommodation" in the center of Nairobi. The facility has 340 guest rooms and a floor reserved for smoking guests. Guests have easy access to downtown shopping malls and the Kenyatta International Conference Center. The hotel premises itself has much to offer including full service and fast food restaurants, a bar, boutiques, a coffee shop and a casino. Some rooms have private balconies with expansive city views. Twenty-four hour room service is also available.

Six-Eighty Hotel Nairobi

Ground Floor, Emperor Plaza

Kenyatta Avenue

Nairobi, Kenya

254-20-315680

sentrim-hotels.com/680.html

Gigiri Homestead

A stay at these quiet homestyle lodgings removed from the hustle of Nairobi's Central Business District, does not mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. The hotel location near the UNEP Headquarters, the US Embassy, and free unlimited Wi-Fi make this hotel ideal for business travelers. Gigiri is within walking distance to shops and restaurants, but meals are available on the premises when you prefer to stay in. A hot breakfast is included in the room rate. Sit in the beautiful garden or enjoy the stylish African d cor indoors. Cab service to downtown Nairobi and the airport can easily be arranged by hotel staff. Gigiri does not allow indoor smoking.

Gigiri Homestead

Gigiri, 54 Gigiri Court

Nairobi, Kenya

254-203-544189

gigirihomestead.com/

Kikuyu Lodge Hotel

This Kenyan-British hotel, located a 20-minute drive from Nairobi, caters mostly to travelers on the way to and from safari excursions. The hotel features comfortable, colonial style d cor, rooms with views and car with driver service to local craft markets. Guests can also book their safaris through the hotel. Simply email the hotel owner with your requirements for your stay and desired itinerary.

Kikuyu Lodge Hotel

Waiyaki Way, Rungiri/Magana

Nairobi, Kenya

254-072-0740986

kikuyuafricansafaris.com/hotel.htm

Khweza Bed and Breakfast

Guests seeking boutique-style accommodations convenient to the center of the city will welcome the affordable comfort and convenience at Khewza Bed and Breakfast. The hotel features artistic African interior design details including beds with headboards fashioned from natural wood finish, wrought iron and pebble insets. There is a rooftop restaurant where guests can sit in chairs fashioned from antique canoes and enjoy expansive views of the city skyline. Khweza is five minutes from downtown Nairobi and a short distance from other attractions including Kenya National Museum, City Market and Masai Market.

Khweza Bed & Breakfast

Ngara Road

Nairobi, Kenya

254-020-2048863

khweza.com

Tags: Nairobi Kenya, business travelers, comfort convenience, downtown Nairobi, fashioned from, Gigiri Homestead

Prevent Ironing Board Wall Marks

Old Faithful

An ironing board is handy and hardy. A good board lasts for years. But in that time its feet and cover can mark the wall repeatedly where it is hanging or leaning. Here is quickly and easily prevent this damage. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Check the wall where the ironing board is making marks. If the ironing board cover is worn and spotted with starch, it may be sticking to the wall. A worn cover can also expose the pad. A deteriorating pad can leave wall marks. Wash or replace the cover.

2. `The ironing board may have non-slip feet that are dirty. A general purpose cleaner designed for rubber or vinyl will clean off the grime and dirt. Some ironing boards have feet with rubber caps. If the caps are split or feel soft and sticky, they should be replaced with new caps. Many hardware and home improvement stores can provide new caps.

3. If the ironing board has a cord guide, it can stick out and scar the wall. If the cord guide is not used, remove it. A small screw or other fastener usually holds the clamp in place. Loosen the fastener to remove the guide. If the cord guide is used, remember to turn the long side away from the wall to protect the guide and the wall.

4. Slide a clean old t-shirt in a small or medium size over the folded ironing board to cover the feet and the ironing board cover. This means that whether the ironing board is put flat side or feet side against the wall, it will lean on the t-shirt and not mark or stick to the wall. A child's decorative pullover shirt is inexpensive and can brighten up an old board. Just pull it over the folded board. Seasonal shirts at markdown prices can give the storage corner a colorful boost.

5. CASE: A pillowcase is another excellent ironing board protector. Use a decorative case to color match the décor of your laundry room or to hide a worn ironing board. Your wall and ironing board will both benefit from the fabric shield. Happy ironing!

Tags: ironing board, ironing board, board cover, cord guide, ironing board cover, cord guide used

Garden Furniture Ideas

Iron furniture can give your garden a tea-party look.

Gardening is its own reward, and all the flowers and greenery are the bonus. But to enjoy the fruits of your labor, it is useful to have a place to sit or serve a simple lunch and observe blossoms and butterflies close up. The furniture you choose for your garden can complement your landscaping for as much or little money or energy that you care to spend. Does this Spark an idea?

Teak, Shorea, Rattan and Wicker

Garden furniture made from wood or woven from grasses looks natural and wears naturally. Teak is used on boat decks because it is so durable, and the wood has been a top choice for garden and patio furniture for years. If it is oiled annually, it will retain its honey color. However, teak turns a silvery gray when exposed to the elements. Both colors stand out among garden foliage. Shorea is a wood that stands up to the elements nearly as well as teak, and it is far less expensive. Both woods are elegant in a minimalist or Japanese garden.

Rattan and wicker furniture are best for a classic English garden atmosphere. Old pieces, whether matched or mismatched, can be picked up cheaply at garage sales or thrift stores. Store rattan and wicker over the winter to reduce wear. Bring the furniture back out in the spring or summer to enjoy right along with your flowers.

Wrought Iron

A wrought iron table and bistro chairs are tea-party magical when hidden in a sunflower house or under a weeping willow. They look equally at home on a paver patio or nestled under a rose arbor and provide a spot for breakfast al fresco or afternoon lemonade and cookies. Wrought iron lasts well but does require annual cleaning, winter storage and paint touch-ups or, sometimes, complete repainting. Wrought iron is classic in a gazebo, and a bench or a tea table is a delightful surprise along a path overgrown with honeysuckle vine, running bamboo or bushy hydrangeas.

Natural Furniture

Old tree stumps can become casual seating in a garden. They weather well, provide a centerpiece for plantings of groundcover and low flowers, and blend right into the landscape. If you or your neighbors are taking out a big old tree, you can even get the stump and a few trunk sections for free. Tuck one into a shady spot for solitary reflection or scatter two or more throughout a rambling flowerbed for a more social gathering spot. Park tree seats around a flat-topped boulder for a picnic table that looks like it grew right out of the forest. Mix one or two stumps or trunk sections that are about 18 inches high with salvaged garden chairs and an old bistro table for an eclectic garden set. Toss cushions on tree stumps to make a softer seat.

Tags: tree stumps, trunk sections, your garden

Which Are The Most Comfortable Rocking Lawn Chairs

The only thing better than sitting out on your lawn enjoying a beautiful, sunny day is the ability to rock while doing it. Rather than drag out your heavy, old rocking chair that Grandma gave you, look for a comfortable lawn version of a rocking chair. Some of them can even be folded up and stored in the car or garage. Does this Spark an idea?

Adirondack Rocker

The Adirondack style of lawn chair is one of the most commonly seen pieces of outdoor furniture. Just putting an Adirondack chair out in your yard or patio can help you create a more permanent and welcoming outdoor room. Adirondack chairs come in many styles, including rocker styles.

Wrought Iron

Wrought-iron rocking chairs are created in many different styles and are good for rocking on a porch, deck or patio. While some have a rustic design, others are more elegant. Wrought-iron rockers are often hand-formed, dipped in zinc phosphates and painted so that they can endure many years of outside wear. Cushions are usually available for a custom fit in the chair.

Tubular Steel

Tubular steel framed rockers are strong, durable, comfortable and easy to transport. Unlike an Adirondack or wrought-iron rocking lawn chair, a rocker made of tubular steel is lightweight, so it can be moved easily. These chairs usually have a canvas seat and back, but some have woven seats made of plastic, leather or other materials.

Tags: lawn chair, rocking chair, some have

Paint Frenchstyle Furniture

Distress painted furniture to get the look of a French antique.

Chips and worn-away paint confer charm---and a hefty price tag--on Old World furniture. Give your ordinary wooden furniture the look of a French antique at a fraction of the cost with the faux finishing technique of paint distressing. Use bold colors, such as maroon and mustard, for rustic French country decor and cream and pale pastels for a touch of Parisian chic. For the most authentic imitation, study antique items to see their pattern of natural wear and tear. Take the project a step further by replacing drawer pulls and knobs with historic reproductions. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Protect floors and work surfaces with plastic sheeting. Tape plastic over all parts of the furniture that you will not be painting, such as fabric seat covers.

2. Sand varnished furniture with a sanding sponge to remove the glossy finish. Wipe the surface off with a tack cloth.

3. Rub a candle on parts of the furniture where you want the wood to show through. Apply the wax to places that are naturally subjected to wear, such as edges, horizontal surfaces and legs.

4. Apply latex paint to the furniture with a nylon-polyester brush. Use a 3- or 4-inch brush for big projects and a 1-1/2-inch brush for more detailed areas. Use two coats of paint. Allow the paint to dry for a few hours.

5. Use the steel wool on areas where the wax was applied. Rub until the original wooden surface is visible. Distress other areas with the steel wool, as desired. Sand the painted surface with 220-grit sandpaper for a more worn look. Wipe the furniture with a tack cloth.

6. Paint the furniture with a tinted wax. Use a stiff natural-bristle brush to apply wax in cracks and corners. Wipe the wax off the furniture with a clean, dry rag after 2 to 3 hours.

Tags: furniture with, French antique, furniture look, furniture look French, look French, look French antique, parts furniture

Price Tintypes

Tintype photographs, introduced in the 1850s, enjoyed tremendous popularity for over 50 years. They provided a cheaper, faster alternative to daguerreotypes because the image was ready within minutes. Travelers and soldiers preferred their sturdy iron-plated images to the glass-plated ambrotypes. Today, authentic pieces can fetch $40 to $200 depending on the age, condition and content. The following tips describe which characteristics increase the value of tintypes.

Instructions

Age and Content

1. Attempt to pinpoint the date. Older tintypes are rarer and used a heavier metal plate, but dating them proves difficult because they were popular for so many years and the surface could not easily be inscribed. Earliest productions bear the stamped patent along the edge, "Neff's Melainotype Pat 19 Feb 56."

2. Historicize the content. Hairstyles, clothing and household implements in the picture may clearly indicates the period. Photographs against novelty backdrops like the beach, boat or at Niagara Falls were likely taken between 1875 and 1890 by itinerant photographers traveling to county fairs. Chocolate-brown images with rustic themes like wooden fences and rural props found great popularity for a longer period from 1870 to 1895. Traveling photographers still made tintypes into the 1930s when visiting rural areas.

3. Know what kind of content most collectors seek. Any pictures of the Civil War era, especially those portraying uniforms, war scenes or artifacts, will be highly prized. A famous personage or an authentic slavery image will also command significant interest.

Size and Condition

4. Asses the condition and quality of the tintypes. Any wear, bends, folds, creases, scratches or missing corners will devalue the piece. Good quality tintypes have rarely lasted to the present because they were so easily and cheaply produced.

5. Measure the size. Several images could be exposed on one metal plate and then cut apart. Common sizes include full plate, half plate, 1/6th plate and 1/9th plate. Tiny one to two inch "Gem" portraits, popular from 1863 to 1890, greatly reduce tintype prices.

6. Examine any tinting, usually to add pinkness to cheeks and lips or highlight jewelry and buttons. People wanted their photographs to look like paintings. Some of the tinting that survived shows true artistic talent.

Genuine Versus Fake

7. Know the different framing styles. Each tintype had its own blackened iron plate and older ones came in a case. Many slipped into paper sleeves: printed sleeves were used prior to 1863 and then embossed sleeves replaced them. Civil War-era sleeves sported patriotic symbols. Locket settings were common, but few have lasted.

8. Understand that because prices for authentic pieces have increased over the past 30 years, commensurate with collectors' interest, the production of fakes has kept pace.

9. Look for distinctions between real and fake tintypes. Real photographs show a continuous range of tones but reproductions exhibit tiny dots or lines visible to the naked eye or through a small magnifying glass. New photographs masquerading as originals boast clarity that is too sharp and sitters that are more overweight and well-groomed.

Tags: authentic pieces, because they, because they were, metal plate, plate plate, quality tintypes

Restore A Cast Iron Fire Grate

A cast-iron grate that is black and clean refreshes the look of a fireplace.

As winter holidays approach, it is time to take a good look at your fireplace. It may need some sprucing up before the winter heating season begins and it takes center stage as part of your holiday decorating. When the chill is in the evening air, nothing says "cozy" quite like a fire in the fireplace. While you're polishing the mantel and shoveling out the ash, don't forget your hardworking cast-iron fire grate. Details make all the difference to a good-looking fireplace and a cast iron grate can be restored to look like new. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the grates to a safe work area with good ventilation, preferably outside on newspaper. Put on eye protection and rubber gloves.

2. Scrub off any loose rust or soot buildup with a wire brush.

3. Brush on a poultice-type chemical paint remover. Traditionally these were highly caustic and hazardous to the environment but today there are several less-toxic remover on the market

4. Leave the remover on the grate for as long as necessary, or reapply if the first application did not remove everything. Give the grates a good scrubbing again with the wire brush.

5. Mix a small amount of vinegar with water in a spray bottle. Rinse the grates by spraying them down with the acid-based solution to neutralize the caustic action of the remover.

6. Dry well. Wipe down with a dry cloth to remove any dust.

7. Spray the grates with stove paint -- a high-temperature paint designed for such applications. Allow proper time for drying, according to manufacturer instructions. This is best done outside for good ventilation.

8. Replace in fireplace.

Tags: down with, good ventilation, wire brush, with wire, with wire brush

Do All Light Fixture & Hardware Finishes Have To Match Throughout The House

Get as creative as you want when finishing the details of your home.

All your light fixtures and hardware finishes do not have to match throughout your entire home. Interior design is all about the expression of your personal tastes. Showcase your individual decorating style, whether you like things to match, complement one another or enjoy an eclectic look. Does this Spark an idea?

Matching

If you have the type of personality that likes when all the rooms of your home contain a cohesive design style, go ahead and buy matching lighting fixtures and hardware. For example, in a contemporary space choose chrome or nickel styles with sleek lines. For a more traditionally decorated house, look for a more elegant finish, such as pewter with scroll-work and other carvings. If you like a rustic touch, look for fixtures and hardware that are an oil rubbed bronze or black wrought iron.

Complementary

If you want a different color scheme and a slight variance on style in the different rooms of your house, choose lighting fixtures and hardware that complement one another but don't exactly match. For example, put birdcage pulls in the kitchen in a black finish and birdcage pulls in the dining room in a pewter. Besides matching the general shape, you can also choose to match the finish but contrast the styles. For example, put a retro chrome light in your guest bathroom and an elegant chrome chandelier in the adjoining guest bedroom.

Two-toned Options

If you enjoy more than one finish and style in adjoining rooms but still want the spaces to maintain a flow, two-toned options may be right for you. For example, the drawer pulls on your china hutch could be of a twisted rope design in both silver and bronze, while the chandelier over your table could have a base of chrome and globes with brass trim. To avoid an eclectic look, create symmetry by dispensing the finishes evenly around the space.

Eclectic Decorating

If you love the eclectic look, matching all of the light fixtures and hardware finishes throughout the house is not usually visually appealing to you. It is okay to have completely different styles and appearances in these small details as much as it is the larger ones. For example, if you pick up a light during one of your travels to an exotic place, it needs to be showcased in your home. If a vintage chest of painted drawers is the focal point of your bedroom, changing the hardware to match your retro chandelier would take away from the appearance of the piece.

Tags: fixtures hardware, eclectic look, your home, birdcage pulls, complement another, fixtures hardware finishes, fixtures hardware that

Refinish A Fence

Refinish your wood fence to restore it to an almost newly built appearance.

Over time, even the best-made fences succumb to the effects of constant weathering, growing gray and dulled under cold cycles, sun and rain. Even if still structurally sound, the general run-down appearance of the fence can make it appear weak and failing. There's still hope for your fence though, even once it's reached this point. With a new application of wood stain, you can restore your fence's appearance. The new stain makes the wood shine anew, thus enhancing its natural beauty and making the fence appear as strong as it is in reality. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clean the entire length of the fence with a pressure washer to remove dirt and debris as well as any minor damage caused by mold or insects. Examine the fence as you wash it to locate damaged areas needing repair or replacement. Look for downed rails or panels that require reattaching or split rails or posts that need to be repaired.

2. Replace fence parts that you find too damaged for reattachment. Remove the nails holding the parts in place with a claw hammer. Replace rails or panels with a new part of the same length and wood type, nailing them into place with zinc-coated nails. Replace posts when needed by digging dirt from around the post with a spade and then pulling it from the ground. Replace with a post of the same size by propping the post in place and securing it in position with stakes and twine around the post to hold it plumb. Fill the hole around the post with quick-setting concrete. Reattach rails to the post once the concrete dries.

3. Repair damaged areas of the fence. Reattach rails or panels to fence posts by nailing the rails back into place with a hammer and zinc-coated nails. Glue together split rails or posts with wood glue and fill in cracks with wood putty. Tie glued pieces together with twine, to ensure they stay together as the glue cures. Allow the fence to dry before applying stain.

4. Cover any plants along the sides of the fence with newspaper to protect them from the wood stain. Cover metal bits on the fence, such as hinges at gates, with masking tape. Remove the twine from the glued portions of the fence.

5. Brush the wood stain of your choice over the fence, covering posts and railings alike. Apply a moderate amount of stain with a medium-nap paint roller then brush the stain in with a paintbrush for maximum absorption. Work in three-foot-long sections of fence to prevent the stain from drying before brushing it in. Use two coats of the stain to achieve colorful depth with even coverage, waiting for each coat to dry before applying the next. Work along with the grain of the wood for easier stain application. Allow the final layer time to dry completely, according to the manufacturer's suggestions.

6. Remove the masking tape from the metal parts and then cover the fence, including the metal, with a coat of sealant to protect the stain color and add a bit of water resistance to the wood. Apply two layers of sealant with the paint roller for full coverage, waiting about two hours between layers for the first to begin drying. Remove the newspapers from the plants and then allow the sealant 48 hours drying time before touching any portion of the fence.

Tags: around post, place with, rails panels, wood stain, around post with

Paint A Headboard On Your Wall

Liven up a boring bedroom with a painted headboard.

A small budget or limited space do not mean your bed can't have a headboard. If there is space on the wall behind it, you can design a hand-painted headboard with little money and minimal artistic talent. Choose a different paint texture or contrasting color from your walls to help the headboard stand out, and ask a helper to assist you with holding materials. Begin in the morning, and your headboard should be dry by bedtime. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure from the floor on the left side of the bed to the height you want your painted headboard. Make a mark with a pencil. Repeat on the right side of the bed.

2. Move to the left of the bed. Stand the 1-by-4 board on-end with its left edge against the height mark. Set a carpenter's level on the side of the board and adjust the board until the bubble is centered. Trace the left and right sides of the board onto the wall with a pencil using light strokes that the paint will hide (see References 1, paragraph 2). Stop at the height mark. This is the left headboard post.

3. Move to the right of the bed. Stand the board on-end with its right edge against the height mark. Set the level on the side of the board and center the bubble. Trace both sides of the board onto the wall with light pencil strokes, stopping at the height mark. This is the right headboard post.

4. Hold the board horizontally between the two faux posts at the height you would like the top of the headboard to rest. Set the level on top of the board and center the bubble. Ask a helper to trace the top and bottom of the board onto the wall. Slide the board to the left along the horizontal line and continue tracing to the post. Repeat on the right. This is the top of the headboard.

5. Place the bottom of the coffee can on the wall at the top of each headboard post. Trace around it, forming a faint circle (see References 2, page 4, paragraph 1). These are the cannon ball finials.

6. Fill in each of the headboard post outlines with the paint color of your choice using a 3-inch wide paintbrush. Fill in the horizontal headboard top outline and the cannon ball post toppers in the same manner.

7. Paint the empty space between the posts, under the top of the headboard, with the same paint or a contrasting color. Let the paint dry.

8. Trace the outlines of all the headboard segments using a narrow paintbrush and contrasting paint to add definition. Use black or gray if the headboard is white. Choose white if the headboard is black. Any contrasting color will add definition and help separate the segments.

Tags: headboard post, height mark, board onto, board onto wall, contrasting color, onto wall

Fix A Crack In A Wrought Iron Chair

Improper welding and abrupt temperature changes may cause cracks in your wrought iron chairs.

Wrought iron chairs are known for their longevity and durability, which make them ideal for use on patios, decks and other outdoor areas. Although extremely strong, wrought iron occasionally requires repair. Exposure to rapid temperature fluctuations can cause wrought iron chairs to expand and contract, making them susceptible to cracks. Sometimes it's just a welding flaw. Aside from looking unattractive, cracks weaken the structural integrity of wrought iron. Promptly repair cracked wrought iron chairs to keep them strong and prevent cracks from growing. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Move the chair outdoors or to a well-ventilated indoor area.

2. Scrub the cracked portion of the chair with a wire brush to loosen accumulated grime.

3. Put on disposable gloves.

4. Squeeze equal amounts of liquid steel/epoxy resin and hardener from a two-part cold weld compound kit onto a plastic lid or into a plastic bowl. Mix the two components together for 30 seconds with a wooden or plastic stick .

5. Pack the compound mixture into the crack with a putty knife so that no voids remains. Keep in mind that the compound begins to cure in 30 minutes.

6. Moisten an old rag with soapy water and wipe away any excess compound from around the crack.

7. Let the compound thoroughly cure for 24 hours.

Tags: iron chairs, wrought iron, wrought iron chairs

What Is A French Chandelier

What is a French Chandelier?

A French chandelier is a decorative addition to a room. French chandeliers are usually installed on high ceilings and act as a centerpiece for the ceiling. Compared to English chandeliers, which are designed with multiple glass drops, the wrought iron component is more emphasized in the French chandelier. A French chandelier not only serves as a lighting fixture for the room, it also serves as a conversation starter and a complex decor that draws people in. Does this Spark an idea?

History

French chandeliers were made with iron and candles in medieval times. In 17th-century France, chandeliers were lavish decorations for royalty like Louis XIV. In the 18th and 19th centuries, chandeliers were manufactured in different sizes to fit in people's houses. Crystals, beads and flowers were added to the design, making the chandelier look more opulent.

Famous French Chandeliers

French chandeliers are popular in literature and in historical buildings. In the novel "Phantom of the Opera," the chandelier played a key role as a symbol of the phantom's wrath. Another famous chandelier is the French Empire wood chandelier in the Red Room of the White House.

Identification

French chandeliers are made of iron that is carefully crafted to curve, framing the light. As opposed to other types of chandeliers, where chains make up the body, French chandeliers look like a bouquet with iron stems spreading out to expose the light bulbs. The number of light bulbs varies, but there are usually six or more.

Expert Insight

One of the best known chandelier companies in France is Baccarat. Nowadays, modern French chandeliers are often made of different materials like porcelain and glass, but the classic French country style remains made of intricately designed iron. Due to the complexity of creating a French chandelier, replacement parts are expensive.

Materials and Colors

French chandeliers can also be made of antiqued bronze ornamented by cut glass droplets. They offer a sophisticated and luxurious feel to a room. They can also be gilded and paired with other ornaments in the room, from drawers to desks to mirrors.

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Design A Tuscany Living Room

To design a Tuscany-inspired living room, think of the vast vineyards, gently rolling hills, and magnificent scenery for which Italy is famous. Just as Tuscany is located in the heart of Italy, the living room is the heart of a family's home. Tuscan designs are warm, inviting and regal, ideal for a lovely living room retreat. Does this Spark an idea?

Selecting Colors

Designing a Tuscan living room begins first with color, rustic, earthy tones and hues, inspired from nature itself. Deep reds, olive inspired greens, sunlit yellows, and terra-cotta oranges are popular shades. Warm browns from the earth and elegant blues of the surrounding sea find their places rooted in Tuscan design. When painting the wall, consider which color provides the energy or warmth desired. To keep the living room light, choose yellow or gold. For a vibrant energy, choose red or orange. Consider using blue and green as accent walls, although both colors are regal in their hue and can add an air of elegance.

The exact color does not need to be precise, but if the color concept still escapes the creative mind, find pictures online to inspire decorating, or find Italian art pieces that will provide a color theme.

Texture Choices

When designing a Tuscany living room, think Old World tradition. Textures are often rough, the trademark of many years of beloved use and detailed artistry by skilled workers who strove for excellence within their trade. Terra-cotta pots are popular and provide a rustic feel, while tables and chairs with wrought iron and scrolled metal detailing supply refined, elegant elements. Elaborate wooden furniture, hand painted or finished in rich warm stains, brings natural pieces to the living room.

Tapestries or Italian-inspired art pieces add decorative flare and soften many of the rough edges of iron and wood.

Arrange pieces to fit the living space. The order is not as important as the colors, textures and old-fashioned accessories that replicate Tuscany houses.

Lighting

Because older styles tend to be more eclectic, lighting can come from various sources like antique-style chandeliers, various lamps and natural sunlight. Stay away from gaudy pieces, but it is acceptable to use more than one light source. Avoid recessed lighting or anything that looks new or modern. Tuscan designs are very old-fashioned in their appearance and things should look as natural as they would have 100 years ago. In going with Old World tradition, candles and lanterns work well for providing accent lighting. Use sheer or light-colored curtains to allow sunlight, or consider installing lights in various places. To mimic the appearance of a sun-drenched living room, consider installing inconspicuous lighting in discreet areas that do not interrupt the flow of traditionalism.

Special Additions

To design a Tuscany living room it is all about the final additions, small changes that can add serious design impact. While they are not always budget friendly, the result is well worth the time and money spent.

Aside from merely painting the walls a flat color, Tuscan design has many layered textures, so consider Venetian plaster. This faux technique involves spreading drywall putty on the wall with various trowel strokes. Then simply prime and paint with a glaze-paint mixture. Several coats add depth and interest to the wall. For a time-honored appearance, try hand painting or stenciling details on furniture.

Consider adding architectural features such as columns, wooden ceiling beams, stone or tile flooring and arched structural elements. If this is not feasible, use items that re-create these special touches like arched frames for art and mirrors or build custom beams and columns with spare wood. Fresh flowers, fruit baskets, vases, and urns are commonplace Italian accent pieces that add distinct flair.

To display family photos, transfer original prints into black-and-white or sepia-toned images that coordinate with the Old World design theme. Remember to keep things uniform with delicately aged accents and decorations.

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Ironwork Tips

Ironwork can be used for decoration and security.

Ironwork refers to objects or features made from, or decorated with, worked iron. Of the two main types of ironwork, wrought ironwork is the more accessible, as you need incredibly high temperatures to cast iron, a process usually only done in factories. You can do wrought ironwork with cold metal, although having access to an anvil and forge will help you considerably.

Know Your Anvil

According to the Farrier and Hoofcare Resource Centre, the pointed section of your anvil is called the horn or beak. The ridge above the horn is known as the step. The main working surface of your anvil is a rectangular area referred to as the face. The end of the face is called the heel. A pritchel hole is a small round hole in the face used when punching. The square hole is called a hardy hole. which you use to hold tools.

Master Forge Welding

According to Joe Delaronde et al., you should first rake out any clinker, or used coals, from your fire to leave it "clean." Place the two pieces of iron that you wish to weld together into your forge to heat up. When sparks begin to fly and the iron is a color between pale yellow and almost white, the metal is at welding heat. Remove both pieces with tongs and place them on the face of your anvil. Use a one-pound hammer to fuse the two pieces together with hammer blows.

Make a Pot Hook

A pot hook is an "S" shaped hook, traditionally used for hanging pots. Take a one-foot long piece of iron. Heat up about three inches of the end until it is orange-red. Bend the end over the horn of your anvil by striking it with a hammer. Use tongs on the bent metal to place the piece back in the forge and heat up the straight end. When this is orange-red, bend it over your horn the other way to form the "S" shape.

Add a Touchmark

Blacksmith Lorelei Sims suggests you add a touchmark to your work. This is your signature, initials or business name, plus the year and perhaps even the day and month you made the item. You stamp a touchmark into your work with a manufactured letter stamp set. Sims thinks touchmarks are important because they show you have pride in your work and will help future historians.

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Installing Wrought Iron Railings

Iron railings add a traditional touch to security requirements.

Wrought iron railings are a wonderful way of adding a touch of history to an external perimeter. While many new railings are made of aluminum, wrought iron is a stronger and more traditional way of providing security to an area. Installing a set of wrought iron railings is a very challenging task, and one that may be best left to a professional, but it can be done with patience and hard work. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Discuss your railing requirements with your local zoning inspector, so you can obtain a permit to carry out the installation. There is a possibility you will have to be a licensed contractor to install wrought iron railings in your region.

2. Purchase the materials you need to erect your railings, such as connectors and posts, as well as the concrete needed to support the heavy construction.

3. Use your shovel to dig a foot-deep trough along the line where your railings will go. Pour concrete into this trough and tamp using a piece of lumber. Wait seven days for the concrete to cure.

4. Hold the hammer drill perpendicular to the concrete at a 90 degree angle. Drill 18 inches into the concrete. Wear ear and eye protection when carrying out this task.

5. Trowel fresh concrete into the hole you have just made and lower a wrought iron post into the hole. Use your spirit level to make sure it is perfectly vertical.

6. Use your measuring tape to ascertain the location of the next post hole, and repeat steps four and five. Leave the concrete to cure for 12 hours.

7. Affix the connectors to the posts, and then the horizontal rods to the connectors. These panels that fit between the posts should be pre-fabricated, and are able to be bolted on to each vertical post using a wrench.

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Install A Hanging Wine Rack

Install a Hanging Wine Rack

Hanging wine racks are a convenient way to keep a few bottles of wine on display and handy. Many hanging wine racks also double as stemware racks. Installation of a hanging wine rack is not difficult, but you must ensure the mount is sturdy since this is used to store glass and wine, which can create a dangerous mess and stains if the mount fails. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Hanging a Wine Rack

1. Use a tape measure to determine where you want the wine rack to hang. Note the dimensions of the wine rack. Allow adequate space for the rack to be within reach, but far enough out of the way so it won't be accidentally struck.

2. When hanging to a ceiling, use a stud finder to locate wood studs underneath the drywall. Mark as close as possible to the center of the wood studs.

3. Drill holes for the hooks or hardware used to mount the rack. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the size of the bolt or screw that will be used with the mounting hardware.

4. Hang the wine rack and give it a slight push and pull to ensure it is sturdy before putting wine bottles or glasses into the rack space.

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Install A Wrought Iron Wine Cabinet

Store your wine conveniently located on a wall in the dining room.

Wrought iron wine cabinets will store your wine in an elegant manner. The wrought iron is an ideal material to showcase your favorite selection of wines. Wall-mounted cabinets can be installed in a dining area so the wine will be close at hand when serving guests. Wrought iron cabinets are heavy, so it is important to install the cabinet into wall framing studs to bear the load. Locate a cabinet where it will not be exposed to direct sunlight. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select a spot on your wall to install the wine cabinet. Slide a stud finder along the wall in the selected area. Mark the indicated stud locations nearest the spot with a pencil at the approximate height where you plan to install the cabinet.

2. Hold the wine cabinet against the wall and center the mounting holes in the cabinet over the marked studs.

3. Place a level on top of the wine cabinet and adjust the it for level. Mark the mounting holes with a pencil. Remove the level.

4. Drive the mounting screws that were included with the cabinet through the mounting holes in the cabinet into the wall studs using a screw gun.

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Install A Wrought Iron Post

Install a Wrought Iron Post

While the expense of wrought iron has made it a less common choice than it was in past decades, this type of material can add an air of sophistication to your outdoor space. Because they are quite heavy, wrought iron posts can be challenging to install. However, they will last for decades once the job is completed. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Determine the location for your wrought iron post. These posts are intended to be permanent structures, and cannot be easily moved once they have been installed.

2. Measure the diameter of your wrought iron post. You will need at least 2 to 3 inches of concrete surrounding the post to provide it with support and stability.

3. Dig a hole that is 4 to 6 inches in diameter larger than the diameter of your post. The hole should be 2 to 3 feet deep. The larger the post, the deeper the hole should be. Make sure that the sides of the hole are straight.

4. Fill the bottom of the hole with 2 inches of pea gravel. Use the tamper to pack down the gravel. Pour 1 inch of sand over the pea gravel and pack it down.

5. Mix enough concrete to fill the hole around the post. Place the post in the hole and use a carpenter's level to ensure that it is perfectly vertical. Brace the post with sections of 2 x 4 lumber running diagonally from the ground to the post. Drill a hole through the end of each section of lumber and run heavy rope through the hole. Wrap the rope around the pole to keep the braces from falling.

6. Use a shovel to pour concrete in the hole around the post. Fill in concrete to the top of the hole and pack it down with a tamper. Use a trowel to smooth the concrete. Allow the concrete to cure for at least 48 hours before removing the lumber supports.

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Floor Stand For Hanging Baskets

Make a floor stand to display hanging flower baskets.

Hanging baskets make beautiful displays inside and outside your home. Add the beauty of hanging baskets in places where there are no walls to mount hangers, such as on patios or decks, using floor stands. Make your own floor stand to create a custom mount for hanging plants. Use a pedestal table base and install a 2-inch hardwood dowel in the center of the pedestal to act as a rod for mounting wrought iron plant hangers.

Instructions

1. Place a pedestal table base in a work area. Drill a 2-inch-diameter hole 6 inches deep into the top end of the table pedestal using a drill and 2-inch drill bit.

2. Apply wood glue to the drilled hole using a small paintbrush. Brush on glue to 6 inches of one end of a 2-by-36-inch hardwood dowel. Insert the dowel into the hole in the pedestal. Allow the glue to dry for 24 hours.

3. Sand the assembly with fine-grit sandpaper in the same direction as the wood grain. Wipe off the dust left from sanding with a tack cloth.

4. Apply two even coats of wood finish to the assembly using a paintbrush. Allow the finish to dry at least four hours between coats. Allow the final coat to dry at least 24 hours.

5. Position three wrought iron plant hangers evenly around the dowel, 6 to 8 inches down from the top end. Fasten each hanger to the dowel using the mounting screws included with the hangers. Drive the screws through the mounting holes in the hangers into the dowel with a screw gun.

Tags: floor stand, hardwood dowel, iron plant, iron plant hangers, pedestal table, pedestal table base