Identify Antique Cast Iron Skillets

Instructions

Identify an Antique Cast Iron Skillets

1. Identify the manufacturer by examining the bottom of the skillet. Most companies imprint their name, logos and/or city of manufacture on the bottom. Griswold and Wagner are the premier names in cast iron cookware, and their pieces are the most sought after by collectors. Other popular companies include Favorite, Columbus, Dixie, Excelsior, Piqua and Sidney.

2. Identify the city of manufacture, logo and writing style and compare to your identification guide. The city of manufacture can provide further clues to your skillet's age. For example, Griswold used "Erie," without the company's name, from 1865 to 1909. Company logos and style of writing also changed over time and can narrow the date of manufacture.

3. Look for any seemingly extraneous letters, numbers and symbols and compare to your identification guide. These are called pattern-maker marks and identify the pattern or maker. You also may find a size marking (a number on the bottom or the handle) that can help pinpoint your skillet's age. For example, Griswold began making skillets in sizes 5 through 12 in 1905.

4. Examine the skillet's surface. A shiny surface may indicate that the skillet is nickel-plated, a process that came into use around 1890. In the 1920s the outside of many cast iron skillets were covered with porcelain. Skillets with two-toned porcelain overlays on both the inside and outside were new in the 1930s.

5. Examine the handle. A scooped handle includes a smooth recess for gripping around the handle's hole and is typical of early skillets. Later pieces use a rib handle, which does not have a beveled recess. Wood handles also were used from approximately 1885 until the turn of the century, but frequently dried out, cracked or burned with use.

6. Look for a heat ring on the bottom of the skillet. This slightly raised ring allows heat to circulate evenly. A ring on the outer edge of the skillet bottom indicates it was made before 1905, whereas a heat ring closer to the skillet's center, called an inset heat ring, was made after 1905.

7. Examine the lid, if any. If your skillet has a matching lid, it may also help pinpoint the skillet's age. Lids were not made specifically for cast iron skillets until approximately 1915, and they had a smooth interior surface. In 1920, Griswold patented a lid with concentric drip rings on the interior surface.

Tags: cast iron, city manufacture, heat ring, your skillet, 1905 Examine, Antique Cast, Antique Cast Iron

Hotels In Death Valley Junction California

Stay in Death Valley Junction on your way through Death Valley National Park

Death Valley Junction is the junction of the Tonopah and Tidewater Railroads leading to the Tonopah, Goldfield, Bullfrog and Borax mines. Mining activity continued through the 1950s. Today, at the intersection of Highways 190 and 127, only fragments of this town exist. Stay in hotels in and around Death Valley Junction on your trip to nearby Death Valley National Park.

Amargosa Opera House and Hotel

Enjoy the gifts of Marta Becket at the Amargosa Opera House and Hotel. Visit the on-site opera house for live theater. Many rooms are adorned with Marta's murals of cherubs, angels and peacocks. Enjoy the on-site cafe open seven days per week for meals, baked goods and coffee. Pets are welcome, and arrangements are made when you make your reservation. Rooms with one double bed start at $67.20, two double beds for $78.40, and a king size bed for $84.00, as of January 2011.

Furnace Creek Resort

Surrounded by Death Valley National Park, the Furnace Creek Resort has one resort and two hotels. The resort has the world's lowest 18-hole golf course located 214 feet below sea level, four restaurants, horseback riding, a playground, horse-drawn carriages, an air strip, conference and banquet facilities, swimming pools, the Borax museum, retail stores and a service station. Stay at the inn or ranch from mid October through mid May, and at the Ranch from mid May through mid October. As of January 2011, rooms at the inn begin at $330 per night and the ranch $162 per night. Standard rooms include two queen beds, a television, full bath, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, mini fridge, electric clock, air conditioning and a telephone with a data port. Pets are not allowed, and additional cribs or roll-away beds are available for an additional $20 fee.

Best Western Pahrump Station

Located 30 miles from Death Valley Junction in Pahrump, Nevada, the Best Western Pahrump Station has easy access to Death Valley, Spring Mountain Race Track, the Pahrump Valley Museum and Pahrump Valley Vineyards. Visit the shooting range or play a round of golf within a few miles of the hotel. Stay in one of 90 guest rooms with cable television, high-speed Internet, coffee maker, iron, free long distance access, microwave, alarm clock and a complimentary breakfast. Enjoy the two hot tubs and outdoor swimming pools and the on-site restaurant. Business services are available. Pets are welcome. As of January 2011, room rates start at $71.99 per night.

Saddle West Hotel, Casino and RV Resort

Located steps away from the casino and restaurant, the Saddle West Hotel features standard rooms with two queen beds or one king bed. Deluxe rooms that come equipped with mini refrigerators, coffee makers and hair dryers. The executive suites with a private spa, iron and ironing board and come with a wet bar and separate sitting room. Rooms start at $55 per night as of January 2011. Pets are welcome for an additional charge of $10 per day and a refundable $100 deposit per visit. Winery and gold packages are available.

Tags: Death Valley, Death Valley Junction, Valley Junction, January 2011, Death Valley National, National Park

Installation Instructions For A Security Door

Security doors help protect homes from intruders. A form of a storm or screen door with a little added protection, a security door has bars to help keep the home safe. These doors install just like a storm door and attach straight to the brick mold. Armed with the right materials and a few instructions, any homeowner can easily install a security door. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the opening along the outside of the entry door with a tape measure to determine what size security door you must install. Record the measurements of both the height and width, and purchase the proper size of door.

2. Line up the Z-bar included in your door kit lengthwise along the door, and cut it with a hacksaw so it measures 1/8 inch less than the door opening measurement.

3. Set the door into the opening, and line up a level to verify that the door is square and plumb. Drill holes 5/32 inch in diameter and 1/2 inch deep into the brick mold through each of the pre-drilled holes in the Z-bar.

4. Open the door, and insert screws into the pre-drilled holes to secure it to the frame. Line up the closer bracket at the top of the door on the hinge side, and drill holes through the door jamb. Insert screws into the holes to connect the closer bracket to the jamb.

5. Attach the closer to the bracket with the provided securing pin. Secure the closer to the door with two screws at the top of the door. Line up the lock to the provided hole in the door, and attach it with screws. Open and close the door to ensure it works properly, and test the lock to verify that it works.

Tags: door with, closer bracket, brick mold, door attach, door Line

Decorate A Floating Shelf

Floating shelves can hold anything from collectibles to stuffed animals.

Floating shelves fit over the installation hardware so that they appear to float on the wall, hence the name. Floating shelves come in different sizes, and you can paint or stain them in any color you like. If you paint floating shelves the same color as the walls, your items will "pop" and appear to float in thin air. Another approach is to choose shelves in stains that match the rest of the wood furniture in the room. Hang your floating shelves in symmetrical or asymmetrical patterns, depending on your decorating style and needs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Gather the items you want to display on your floating shelves. Group the items according to their likeness, color, texture, size, shape or any other similar characteristics. They should also complement the style, colors and theme of the room.

2. Anchor your floating shelf display with a large item in the back, such as a framed picture, mirror or artwork. If you choose a picture or image, choose something that goes with the items you're grouping with it. For example, pictures of the beach would complement seashells, starfish or other beach collectibles.

3. Display your favorite books in unexpected ways on a floating shelf. For example, stand them up, stack them on their sides or prop your favorite up so the cover is visible from across the room.

4. Group vases together on a floating shelf to create depth, texture and color. For example, three vases of different sizes, heights, widths, shapes or patterns can complement one another if they have something in common. They can stand alone, hold flowers or display small collectibles if they're clear.

5. Add flowers or small potted plants to your floating shelf. A single bud vase can add charm, while a small potted plant can bring life and nature into your decor.

6. Display collections together. For example, use one floating shelf to display your crystal collection, one for a group of candles and another for your wrought iron sculptures. Grouping items together creates a larger impact. If the entire collection is about the same height and size, use small boxes or stands to display the items at varying heights to add interest.

Tags: floating shelf, your floating, appear float, different sizes, display your, floating shelf display, Floating shelves

Install A Wine Rack Wall Cabinet

Installing a wine cabinet in the right place is important.

Installing a wine rack wall cabinet is similar to installing any kitchen wall cabinet. You simply need to make sure that the cabinet is designed to hold wine because then the hardware that comes with it for installation will be strong enough to hold the weight of your wine bottles. You will want to find a volunteer to help you hold the cabinet in place while you drill the pilot holes for installation; don't attempt the difficult and unsafe task of balancing the cabinet in one hand and using a drill in the other. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose the location for your wine rack wall cabinet. Do not choose a location above the refrigerator, the stove or any other appliance that gives off regular heat because the heat could ruin the wine or dry out the corks. Avoid a position that will receive direct sunlight.

2. Use the level to draw a line to indicate the location of the bottom and top of the cabinet. Use a stud finder to locate and mark the position of studs in the wall along the line you've drawn at the top and the bottom.

3. Install your temporary support rail. Line up the top edge of the rail with the line you've drawn for the bottom of the cabinet. Screw it into the studs in two or three places to hold it on the wall.

4. Rest the bottom of the cabinet on the support rail and hold it flush against the wall. Position the cabinet so that the holes for the installation hardware are positioned at wall stud locations. Drill holes through the openings in the cabinet into the studs in the wall.

5. Screw the cabinet hardware into place to hold the cabinet in the wall. You want to use screws that are long enough to penetrate through the cabinet and into the studs at least 1 1/2 inches deep. Remove the support rail when you have finished installing the hardware.

Tags: bottom cabinet, into studs, support rail, cabinet into, cabinet into studs, drawn bottom, hold cabinet

Types Of Fittings On Lamps

Lamps are comprised of a number of specialized fittings.

The lamps in your home are comprised of a variety of fittings. Some of these components are the same for most lamps. The body of the lamp has a hole bored from top to bottom that the lamp's pipe threads through, housing the lamp's cord, which carries the wiring up to the lamp socket. Shades are as different as the people who own the lamps. Specialized fittings are typically sold in building supply retail stores. Does this Spark an idea?

Lamp Pipe

Lamp pipe is a threaded tube that houses the lamp's wiring.

Lamp pipe is a threaded steel tube that is typically brass plated. The standard size of a lamp pipe is 1/8 IP, which is the abbreviation for "iron pipe" as defined by the 19th century Briggs Standard of Wrought-iron Pipe Dimensions. A 1/8 IP lamp pipe has an outer diameter of 0.405 inches and fits in a 7/16-inch hole. These threaded steel tubes are manufactured with 27 threads to the inch.

Accessories for Lamp Pipe

Lamp locknuts are specialized.

Lamp pipes are fitted with adapters, locknuts and reducers that are specialized components. Do not assume standard fittings will work. Hardware, building supply and crafts stores often carry these fittings.

Harps

The harp supports the shade above and around the light bulb.

Harps are the wire brackets that provides a frame for the lamp shade to attach to. The harp fits around and above the light bulb and socket. The bottom of the two wires fit in a mounting bracket on either side of the lamp's socket and is held in place by a sleeve that slides over the wire and bracket to secure the harp in place. A lamp harp is typically 7 to 12 inches tall and is graduated in steps of 1/2 inch. Over 12 inches the harps are available in graduated heights from 1 to 15 inches and up. At the top of the harp is a 1/4-inch threaded screw that the shade fits over and is held in place by a finial.

Sockets

The light bulb screws into the lamp's socket.

The socket of the lamp is the fitting you screw the light bulb into. Sockets are available in a number of sizes and switch types and can include a built-in timer. Sockets can operate with a pull chain, push switch, twisting stem or is automatic. Automatic sockets are larger as they must house a photo electric cell which responds to light to turn the lamp on and off.

Spiders

A lamp's spider can have three or four legs.

The wire framework inside of a lampshade is topped by a wire or brass spider. This is a three-spoked apparatus that is joined in the middle by the ring that fits over and is screwed to the top of the lamp harp and secured by a finial. Some spiders feature four legs.

Finials

The finial is the topmost piece of the lamp, securing the shade.

Finials are the screw caps that screw to the top of the lamp's harp to secure the shade. Finials are as plain as a brass ball or as elaborate as you can imagine. Finials are brass, wrought iron, wood, glass, ceramic, resin and so on. Finials are interchangeable, offering the homeowner the option to change it with the season or a changing decor.

Tags: light bulb, lamp harp, lamp socket, building supply, fits over

Make A Granite Table

Granite comes in a variety of textures and colors, adding dramatic effects.

Granite is one of the oldest types of rock used in architecture. It is an igneous rock with interlocking crystals that can be seen with the naked eye. Granite is found all over the world, with different colors from the different quarry locations. Commonly used inside the home for countertops and floors because of its durability, it adds drama and interest to any room. Granite can be used as a table top through a variety of methods. Because it is heavy, wooden bases must be braced. More common bases are metal and iron. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Retrofit an Old Table

1. Remove the old table top by carefully cutting it from the base of the table, or by unscrewing.

2. Take this top to a granite fabricator, using it as a template for a new top. Select a granite edge treatment.

3. Clean and refinish the legs and base of the table. Add bracing to the base if necessary.

4. Dry-fit the granite top on the base and mark the underside of the granite where the corners of the base end.

5. Remove the granite top. Run a bead of carpenter's glue along all the surfaces of the top of the base.

6. Replace the top, lining up the corner markings. Let the glue dry completely before using.

Use a Metal or Iron Base

7. Select the type of base you want from copper, steel, bronze or wrought iron. Common bases are a square column, round or T-shaped, and are either 48 or 54 inches high.

8. Order the table top from a granite fabricator in the size and edge finish you want.

9. Assemble the base following the manufacturer's directions. Screw the base legs together. Tighten with nuts.

10. Dry-fit the table top onto the base and mark the locations for holes on the underside of the top.

11. Drill holes at least 1 inch deep, and attach the top to the table base using 1-3/4-inch screws.

Tags: base mark, base table, granite fabricator

Identify Circa 1860s Coat Racks

Collectors desire mid-19th century coat racks because they are stylish and functional. Characterized by the ornate curves and carvings found in Victorian-era furnishings, a period lasting from 1837 to 1901, antique coat stands act as decorative accessories or as useful additions to any home decor. Recognizing a piece made around the mid-1800s calls for research into ways of identifying an antique coat rack distinct from a later version or a clever reproduction.

Instructions

1. Check for a maker's label or signature. While many pieces of furniture are not labeled, always look for a manufacturer's mark. If the rack has one, research the maker online in furniture guidebooks. Learn the time period during which the firm manufactured coat trees and look for examples of its work. This will help verify the age of your piece.

2. Analyze the construction of the coat rack. Much can be learned from the nails in a piece of furniture. Furnishings made between 1830 and 1890 used headless rectangular nails that were machine-cut. Modern penny nails were not introduced until the end of the 19th century.

3. Examine the piece's patina. An important characteristic of antique wooden coat racks is the patina the wood has acquired from 150 years of handling. A Victorian-era piece will have variations in color due to accumulations of dirt and wax, especially in the grooves of the carving. A coat rack with a uniform color may be a refinished antique, which hurts the value, or a later piece.

4. Study antique furniture guides. Look at a library or bookstore for books that picture and discuss Victorian furnishings. Educate yourself on the ornate detail and elaborate carving of 1860s decor in order to recognize an authentic Victorian coat rack. These types of books include "Victorian Furniture: Our American Heritage" by Kathryn McNerney, "Victorian Furniture With Prices" by David P. Lindquist and Caroline C. Warren, and "Victorian and Edwardian Furniture" by John Andrews.

5. Look at inventories in antique stores. The more you view previously authenticated Victorian coat racks, the easier they will be for you to identify. Visit local antique stores that specialize in vintage furnishings. Let the store owner know of your interest, and ask her for tips on recognizing a true 19th century coat rack. Search online antique stores as well to recognize the shapes and makers of antique coat stands. Look for large Internet dealers that specialize in antiques.

Tags: coat rack, antique coat, antique stores, 19th century, antique coat stands, century coat

Decorate A Table Tuscan Style

Tuscan decorating uses rich colors and simple themes to create a relaxed atmosphere.

The serene and rustic feel of the Tuscan countryside can provide a beautiful setting for guests at your dinner table. Good food is fundamental to the Tuscan lifestyle, as well as a relaxed, family atmosphere and simple, beautiful objects reminiscent of the hills, fields and farms of the region. Use these elements to decorate a Tuscan table to give your guests a taste of the Italian countryside along with a delicious dinner. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Use the colors of the Italian landscape -- deep greens, dark reds, bright golds and rich rusts -- to create an outdoorsy feel. Tablecloths and napkins can be contrasting colors or a creamy-colored damask.

2. Place dinnerware with painted scenes of Tuscany or scenes of nature. Farm images, vineyard themes, nature are part of creating an authentic Tuscan look.

3. Use cut-glass drink ware with an old-fashioned air to create a feel of many generations of country living.

4. Lay out flatware of simple but elegant design. Avoid ornate design elements. Choose forks, spoons and knives with substance that also have attractive shapes or colors that repeat the Tuscan feel.

5. Use hand-painted tiles and platters for serving to repeat the natural, country theme and offer an artisan-made look to the table setting.

6. Set out stoneware pottery and wooden utensils to recall the simplicity and craftsmanship of the Tuscany region. Hand-hammered or terra cotta pieces help to enhance the look.

7. Use pedestal candles on carved wood holders or wrought iron baskets to hold perfectly shaped fresh fruits and vegetables to create a Tuscany farmhouse setting.

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Decorate Outdoors Tuscany Style

Tuscany Style Outdoor Courtyard

Whether it's a romantic dinner for two on the deck, an evening home alone on the patio, or a garden party in the backyard, Tuscany style decorating is the way to decorate under the Tuscan sun. Tuscan decorating outdoors will help set the mood with a relaxed and warm ambiance that can be enjoyed by everyone who is surrounded by it. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Tuscany Style Decorating Outdoor Furniture

If you want to decorate under the Tuscan sun you should begin with Tuscan furniture for outdoors. The Tuscan furniture style incorporates the wrought iron look in tables and chairs. You could create your own Tuscan courtyard by setting up two bistro style chairs with a small table. Other options include a more formal look using Tuscan fabrics in warm colors for cushioned seating and a Tuscany style umbrella. There are also wicker styles of Tuscan furniture to choose from.

2. Tuscan Style Decorating Your Garden

When you decorate Tuscany style outdoors water is a critical element. In Tuscany style decorating a water fountain is the center of the courtyard. Surround the Tuscan water fountain with greenery and color so it becomes the centerpiece of your Tuscany design courtyard. You could bring in artificial cypress trees to add to the old world feel.

3. Tuscan Decorations For Outdoors

Add an earthy element to your Tuscany decorating style with cherubs. Tuscan décor uses cherub wall plaques and reliefs in colors or finishes which are directed towards more natural and gentle shades. Cherubs are also dominant feature in the garden where they represent a lifestyle that is directed towards a relaxing and rural setting. Cherub designs are also prominent on Tuscan inspired pots and urns where the look of the celestial adds a sense of tradition and elegance.

Other Tuscan decorating ideas for your outdoor patio, deck, yard, or even poolside include cast iron floor grate doormat, address plaque, wind chimes, mailbox, arbors, and more.

4. Tuscany Style With Outdoor Lighting

One of the easiest ways to decorate under the Tuscan sun is with wrought iron lighting. Tuscany style outdoor lighting could include a Tuscan-inspired candelabra or a wrought iron hurricane lamp for the tables. Place a lamp pole with a Tuscan inspired wrought iron lamp to create ambiance and find solar lights to place along a garden path or your sidewalk so when the 'Tuscan sun' sets your Tuscan courtyard remains lively.

Tags: wrought iron, decorate under, decorate under Tuscan, Tuscan furniture, Tuscany Style, Tuscany style, under Tuscan

Finial Decorating Ideas

This simple, metal finial adds a finishing touch to an exterior metal fence.

A finial is a decorative element at the top of fence posts, lamp posts, lamps, stairway posts and at the ends of curtain rods. Finials add a finishing touch to the overall design of the interior or exterior post or rod. Look for metal or wood finials designs at home improvement, design and specialty stores. Does this Spark an idea?

Curtain Rod Finials

Finials cap the end of curtain rods, helping extend the rod beyond the width of the window and draw the eye up to the height of the room. Finials screw onto or insert into adaptable curtain rods. Curtain rod finials are available in a variety of designs from ornate to simple. Select a style to complement the existing d cor in your room. For example, select simple wood globes or metal spires to suit a traditional style room. Sleek chrome or pewter designs with clean lines suit a contemporary room. Crystal or colorful glass finial designs fit a more whimsical style of d cor, from shabby chic to French country.

Interior Post Finials

Wooden interior post finials most often adorn the top of a stairway's end posts, both at the base and top of the stairway. Wood designs range from decorative pineapples, which signify "welcome," to smooth globes. Either finish wood finials to match the wood on the stairway rails, or accent them with a different color of stain or paint. To decorate your stairway for maximum impact, incorporate an ornately carved wooden finial, stained in a deeper shade than the rest of the wooden railing. You could also paint a wooden globe finial with acrylics to resemble a colorful mosaic or a landscape scene.

Exterior Post Finials

Decorating exterior posts with wooden or metal finials enhances your outdoor space. Carved wooden pinecones, birds, butterflies and other garden related themes fit naturally with an outdoor space. Exterior wooden finials are often made from redwood and cedar so they can withstand the elements. Metal finials are most often used at the top of lamp posts and metal garden fences. Elaborate wrought iron finials with swirls and scrolls fit with more formal styles of gardens and grounds. Less elaborate designs for a metal finial include spires, fleur de lis, elongated globes and mounds. Another popular choice for metal finials is copper. Copper finials are available in a variety of designs to fit any style of exterior. Place copper finials on top of a weathervane, a lamp post, a garden fence or exterior wooden stair rails.

Tags: curtain rods, available variety, available variety designs, finials available, finials available variety

Build An Iron Gate

There are many different styles in which you can design your gate.

A gate made of iron, or, more specifically, wrought iron, is a great decoration on any property. Such a gate, if properly maintained (painted regularly), is largely immune to the passage of time. It always looks great, whatever the current landscape fashion. You can design and install your own wrought iron gate or order one built and installed for you. Designing and installing a wrought iron gate, however, is not as difficult as some might think. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Find the location for your gate. The area should be level and the ground surface stable. In addition, you may also want to have a paved road over which the gate will be placed (e.g. a driveway).

2. Take down the measurements of the area and think about the size of the gate which you'd like to construct.

3. Define a budget for your gate. Wrought iron gates can cost anything from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

4. Design your gate. It is much easier to select a given pattern or design than come up with an original one, but you can incorporate particular elements into your gate, such as your initials, if you design it yourself. If you want to make your own design, you can draw the gate either on a computer or by using a pencil and a piece of graph paper. Mind, however, that a custom-made design will probably cost you more, as the parts you'll need for the gate are not mass-produced and so cost more to manufacture.

5. Contact a gate manufacturer and negotiate that the manufacturer supply you with the materials from which you'll be able to assemble your gate. Many, if not all, components of the gate will need to be cast from iron, which is a costly and impractical thing to do in your garage.

6. Dig out the holes for the posts on which the gate will hinge. Place the poles in the holes and secure them with cement.

7. Assemble the gate from the materials shipped to you by the manufacturer. Generally, the bigger the components that you order from a gate manufacturer, the easier it is to assemble them. If your work requires welding and you do not feel comfortable with the job, consider hiring a professional welder (you can also ask the manufacturer to weld the parts for you, but in that case the shipping costs will be higher as the welded, assembled gate takes up more space than its components).

8. Sand and clean the assembled gate to ensure it is ready for coating.

9. Coat the gate with a primer and a topcoat of paint. Painted iron gates do not rust as much as unpainted gates do.

Tags: your gate, gate will, assembled gate, cost more, gate manufacturer, iron gate

Decorating Ideas For A Mediterranean Style

The walls of this room have been painted for a textured, sun-dappled effect.

What is it about Mediterranean style that radiates comfort? Is it the sun-flooded rooms or the cool tile floors underfoot? Is it the feeling of permanence created by walls that look like they have stood for hundreds of years? You may not live near the colorful plazas of Barcelona or the rolling hillsides of Tuscany, but with a few careful choices, you can bring the easeful mood of the Mediterranean to your own home. Does this Spark an idea?

Color, Wood and Tile

Mediterranean style takes its cues from the colors of the earth, the garden and the ocean. Choose white or light-gray walls for an open, airy feel, or go bold with red, peach, terra cotta, orange or sunny yellow. Sponge layers of the same paint on top of each other for a rustic look. Or, to achieve the effect of a room baked for years in the sun, coat a section of wall with paint, and then, using a dry, stiff brush, gently sweep through the paint using strokes in different directions. Keep wooden beams exposed and stain them in dark colors, or treat them with a pickling finish so they appear old and weathered.

Eschew carpet in favor of wooden or tile floors. Tile especially is a hallmark of Mediterranean homes. Look for large, buff-textured tiles in natural colors. Neither the edges nor the finish should be too smooth or too crisp; you want the floor to look well loved, even if the tiles are brand new. Create warmth by spreading the floor with rugs of wool or tufted cotton. To decorate your kitchen, look for ceramic serving pieces in the Tuscan style, hand painted with pictures of olives, fruits and vegetables, and wooden bowls and salad spoons. For dining, find a huge wooden kitchen table made of age-treated wood, one big enough for a dinner party with all your friends, and a collection of mismatched wooden chairs to go around it.

Bedrooms and Patios

The Mediterranean bedroom is a haven of rest and simplicity, with few, if any, distractions. If you must have a television in your bedroom, place it in a wooden cabinet and keep the doors closed until you need it. Choose a wooden or wrought-iron bed frame, and dress your bed in natural fabrics in solid colors. Instead of a duvet or patterned bedspread, go with a vintage cotton bedspread and heaps of knitted blankets. Curtains should be thin and sheer instead of heavy and opaque, or they can be done away with altogether. Small touches, such as a ceramic pitcher full of flowers, can help bring nature into your bedroom and make the indoors feel more connected to the outdoors.

No Mediterranean-style home is without its patio or balcony, no matter how small. You can achieve the look of a seaside getaway with a few bright geraniums in terra cotta pots placed on a bed of pea gravel, and wrought-iron cafe-style chairs set around a table with a mosaic top. Set a small glass-topped table to one side, ready to hold plates of tapas or meze and pitchers of sangria for your guests.

Tags: chairs around, Mediterranean style, terra cotta, tile floors, your bedroom

Weld Cast Iron To Steel

Welding cast iron and steel is essentially similar.

Welding cast iron to steel is a process that really doesn't take much time to get the hang of, even if you've never welded before. The reason for this is that steel is slightly harder than cast iron, and therefore combines fairly easily. The most difficult aspect of welding is when the cast iron is relatively small or thin compared to the steel; because cast iron is softer and has a lower melting point, it is easy to burn through if you aren't careful.

Instructions

1. Set up your welding workspace, beginning with an overview of the basic safety precautions necessary while welding. Ensure that there are no puddles of standing water in which you might stand, and that there are no flammable materials nearby. For personal protection, use a welding helmet. It is also more comfortable to weld if you wear a long-sleeved shirt and welding gloves.

2. Turn on the MIG welder and set it to the necessary power you'll need to weld the metals together. A reference chart is usually located just inside the cover of the welder that tells you what power level and wire speed to use for the thickness of steel that you are welding. Measure your metal and set the welder's power and wire speed accordingly.

3. Position the cast iron and steel in the position that you want them to be welded into, and then extend the welding electrode approximately 1/4 inch from the welding nozzle by pulling the trigger on the welding gun. Clamp the welder's ground clamp onto the workpiece.

4. Touch the electrode to the steel, not the cast iron, and then pull the trigger. Through your welding helmet, you will see a small pool of molten steel form where the wire touches the steel. While you are pulling the trigger, move the electrode slowly toward the cast iron until the pool of molten metal forms there.

5. Move the electrode back and forth between the steel and the cast iron in a stitching motion. The molten pool of metal should remain approximately 1/4 inch in diameter. If it grows smaller, slow down how quickly you pass the electrode between the steel and cast iron. If it grows larger, speed up how quickly you move.

6. Finish the weld and release the welder's trigger. When completed, there will be a crust of slag covering the weld area. Clean away this slag with the wire brush and allow the weld to cool before attempting to handle the metal.

Tags: cast iron, cast iron steel, iron steel, steel cast, steel cast iron, approximately inch, between steel

Install Iron Railing On Existing Steps

Iron railing accent exterior steps.

Installing a freestanding iron railing to existing concrete steps is something you can do yourself. Because railing kits come in a variety of styles and designs, survey the market and choose a railing that matches an exterior element in the landscape. In compliance wit local building codes, most railings come in heights of 30 to 38 inches, allowing homeowners to select the ones that meets personal preference. The ideal railing height is 34 to 36 inches. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Assemble the iron railing according to the manufacturer's directions. Assign a helper to hold one end of the railing while you hold the other and set it along the stairway, at least 2 inches inwards from the edge. Measure this spacing along the stairway to ensure it is uniform, or reposition any part of the railing if necessary.

2. Insert the tip of a marker in the bracket holes along the base of a railing baluster to form a mark on the corresponding stair tread. Repeat this process along the concrete stairway to mark the locations for screw holes. Remove the railing and set it aside.

3. Drill a pilot hole through each marked spot on the stair tread using a hand drill and masonry drill bit. Maintain steady pressure as you drill a clean hole through the tread. Repeat the process of drilling holes through the remaining marked spots on the treads along the stairway.

4. Position the tip of a masonry anchor into a pilot hole on the stair tread and tap it gently until it falls flush with the surrounding surface. Set a bracket over the tread, with its screw hole aligned with the anchor. Tap a screw through the bracket screw hole and into the anchor. Continue the process of securing the brackets for the railing along the marked spots on the treads.

5. Set the iron railing over the concrete stairway, with the balusters positioned directly above the brackets secured into the treads. Slide the balusters through the brackets. Tighten the screws at the lower end of the balusters using a wrench.

6. Secure the upper and lower rails to the balusters according to the assembly instructions on the iron railing kit, since these vary. Use the provided screws to secure the pieces to the railing, tightening these with a screwdriver to anchor the freestanding iron railing securely to the stairway.

Tags: iron railing, along stairway, stair tread, concrete stairway, freestanding iron, freestanding iron railing

Make Your Home Kitchen Look Like An Italian Bistro

Italian decor incorporates a variety of earth tones.

Italian bistros incorporate a range of earth tones into the decor as well as sporadic splashes of bright colors in different areas of the kitchen. In order to make your home kitchen look like an Italian bistro, make a few simple changes to have a dramatic effect on the overall appearance. Take advantage of the casual, yet elegant display of the traditional Italian bistro when decorating your own home kitchen. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Paint the walls a neutral color, such as tan or beige, as a canvas for the other colors you are going to incorporate. All of the other earth tones you will use throughout the kitchen will be enhanced by this basic color.

2. Install cabinetry made out of rich, dark wood material. A good example is a set of cabinets made out of teak with a dark stain. For the fixtures, such as the handles and knobs on the cabinets, opt for antique brass to stay consistent with the theme.

3. Lay terracotta or ceramic tiles throughout the floor of your kitchen. This is an authentic style within Italian interior decorating. If you prefer another type of material, other styles to use include marble flooring and bamboo flooring.

4. Install granite countertops on top of the cabinets and kitchen island. Use granite that incorporates other colors throughout the kitchen. Ideally, you should use granite that has specks of tan, black, gray and gold.

5. Place small plants in the corners of the kitchen on top of the counters. Use other types of greenery, such as vines, along the top ledge above the cabinets. Place a centerpiece in the middle of the kitchen island if your island is large enough so that it does not interfere with the functionality of the space. Another option is to use a bowl of fruit as the centerpiece.

6. Add two diagonal rows of sconces around a large piece of framed art on a bare wall. When choosing the type of artwork to hang on the wall, ensure that you obtain pictures that reflect the authentic vision of an Italian kitchen with earth tones, or a landscape of the Italian countryside.

Tags: earth tones, granite that, home kitchen, Italian bistro, kitchen island, other colors

Install Wrought Iron Gates

A wrought iron gate is an attractive addition to a formal garden.

Wrought iron gates are often baroque in appearance, with metal twists and turns that lend a complicated elegance to any yard. This complexity is merely on the surface, however -- most of these gates have very simple hinge systems, making installation a project that anyone can tackle. By sliding hooked hinge bolts into small barrels attached to the gate's support columns, you can assemble a wrought iron gate in only a few minutes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Bolt hinge plates to the end posts, running the bolts through the predrilled holes in each post. Note that each post on most wrought iron gate models have four holes arranged in pairs to support two hinge plates each. Place a washer just under the head of each bolt and tighten it by hand onto the end of it.

2. Slide a hinge bolt into each of the holes on the side of the gate panel or panels, adding a nut and washer to each. Rotate the bolts so that the bent head of each points downward.

3. Insert a ball bearing into the barrel of each hinge plate. Lift the gate panel with the help of an assistant and lower the hooks of the hinge bolts into the hinge plate barrels. Do the same with the second gate panel, if yours is a double gate.

4. Tighten or loosen the nuts using a wrench to ensure the gate hangs level. Do not over tighten the nuts as this will prevent the mobility of the gate. Grease the hinges.

Tags: gate panel, iron gate, wrought iron gate, bolts into, each post, head each

Iron Vs Steel Fence

Steel fences are more easily molded into ornate designs.

Iron and steel are similar metals. Fundamentally, the difference between these two materials is that they have different amounts of carbon in them. Both can create sturdy, though expensive, fences. However, their differences are enough to make choosing between them difficult. They have different strength levels, versatility and appearances. Does this Spark an idea?

Durability

Both iron and steel are hard materials that can make durable fences. Iron fences are only made up of iron, while steel fences contain both iron and carbon. The lack of carbon makes iron softer than steel, which makes iron less durable, requiring more frequent repairs. However, iron can resist shock and vibration. Also, when iron fractures, the breaking occurs gradually, warning fence owners to replace the fence. When steel breaks, the material breaks suddenly. This can create problems on the edge of a hazardous fall. The steel fence is more likely to break suddenly when struck by a powerful force.

Welding

Since iron is easier to mold and work with than steel, welders will have an easier time making designs and railings. However, welders typically use mild steel for railings. This material is iron with a small amount of carbon, which makes the fence somewhat stronger. But steel that contains a lot of carbon heats up easily, which will require less electrical energy when welders work with the steel.

Costs

The production difficulties associated with iron raises its price. However, both kinds of fences are more expensive than wooden fences. Steel fences are fabricated more quickly than iron fences, speeding up the steel fence's production time.

Corrosion

Iron fences rust more than steel fences. Rusted iron gates can get stuck more easily and might require lubrication to open. Stainless steel has nickel and chromium mixed in, which makes the steel more resistant to corrosion, so the fence won't rust or change its appearance. Without these materials, steel will not last as long as iron. The steel fence has a more sleek and modern appearance, while the iron fence looks more old fashioned.

Heat Transfer

When iron and steel fences are heated by a fire, they will both produce a little heat of their own. However, the iron fences will produce more heat than the steel fences. This heat conduction can increase the likelihood of fires, but not as much as many other fencing materials such as wood.

Tags: than steel, steel fence, which makes, fence more, fences more, have different, However iron

Low Cost Cottage Furniture Ideas

Low Cost Cottage Furniture Ideas

Cottage style furniture tends to be small to fit into tight corners, under low walls beneath wide picture windows and multifunctional rooms. Unfortunately, small does not always mean inexpensive. If you employ a few strategies you can get cottage furniture inexpensively. If you invest some time bargain-hunting and apply sweat equity to update worn-out pieces, you can create a rustic, eclectic cottage decor that will fit your budget. Does this Spark an idea?

Secondhand Treasures

The beauty of cottage decor is you can repair a chair back with a mismatched piece of wood or cover worn-out cushions with mismatched swatches of vintage fabric. Put on your bargain-hunting cap and comb flea markets, junk stores, thrift shops, yard sales and areas around trash containers, seeking out pieces that have some life left. Seek out treasures such as a wrought-iron bed frame, metal chandeliers, wooden tables of all shapes and sizes, dainty cafe-style chairs and small benches. A quick coat of antique whitewash or--for a bolder look--some periwinkle paint, breathes new life into these low-cost gems.

Outdoor Furniture

Blend your cottage interior with the surrounding landscape by decorating with outdoor furniture and accessories. Bamboo floor mats, sisal rugs or rattan runners give warmth and texture to cottage floors. A wire plant stand can serve as bathroom storage for textiles or a nightstand. Wicker love seats replace expensive couches and armchairs, while a bamboo or rattan table with a glass top makes an ideal coffee table. Accessorize with natural items such as river stones, branches, wildflowers, herbs, succulents, pine cones, acorns, shells, plants and sea glass.

Repurposed Objects

If you have the creativity for do-it-yourself projects, seek out abandoned pieces you can repurpose into cottage decor. A wooden door on its side makes for a primitive headboard. For the luxurious look of an upholstered headboard, cover a thin mattress in lush fabric and place it on its side. Old wooden drawers only need a coat of paint or fabric lining to transform into shadow boxes. Group them together and nail them to the wall to create funky bookshelves. Cover cardboard boxes with floral and striped wallpaper or fabric for cheerful storage containers. A mosquito net or sheer panel can float over a bed as a canopy. Sew loops onto tea towels or pillowcases to use them as cafe curtains.

Tags: cottage decor, Cost Cottage, Cost Cottage Furniture, Cottage Furniture Ideas, Furniture Ideas

Design Wrought Iron Fences For Porches

True wrought iron railings can be special ordered for older buildings.

Install wrought-iron railings to add elegance and security to a home. Keep in mind that wrought iron is used as a term for artistically appealing, forged-steel designwork. True wrought iron has not been commonly made since 1969 because manufacturing it is expensive. A version of steel called "mild steel" is subsituted for wrought iron in many cases. Commercial dealers use the term "wrought iron" for metal that features scroll work, twists and turns or a hammered look. True wrought iron railings are available on special order for historic buildings or special projects, however. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the porch perimeter and steps area. Obtain home design books featuring porches and remodeling magazines with steel porch railings. Become familiar with various styles of metal materials by going online as well. Railings made of steel, which are crafted in beautiful designs with curves, twists and special shaping, are available at reasonable costs. Add these railings for strength in areas where safety issues come into play.

2. Sketch the metal railings to the desired height and overall shape. Choose metal balusters that are smaller in diameter and a more delicate shape to cover a longer porch length. Install them in areas where light is important, since wooden balusters may tend to darken a long porch area. Keep in mind that a wooden handrail can be used with metal balusters. Select a pre-made metal gate before deciding on the final height for the railing.

3. Draw the house facade with the porch on graph paper. Sketch every detail to scale, so the design of the "wrought iron" railings will be spaced correctly to look right from all angles. Design the railing to fit the size and scope of porch posts and window shutters. Avoid metal handrails and balusters that are very inexpensive, or they will cheapen the look of the house. Select high-quality railings that will not bend or twist out of shape over time; steer clear of aluminum products, for example, in favor of sturdier steel.

4. Create formal metal railings, reminiscent of well-crafted European designs, for steps leading to a very formal porch. Use heavy metal support posts or metal lantern-type light fixtures in the yard space. Choose a front entry door with an ornate design to complement more ornate railings for homes suited to this style. Buy a storm door with a solid glass front, since a typical storm door with low-cost aluminum scroll work with look inappropriate with high-quality metal railings.

5. Use colored pencils to draw metal railings in various colors. Draw the house with steel porch railings in light green, for example, to match pale green siding. Select white railings or black in some cases, but also review copper and bronze railings as possible options. Buy railings that fit the home's colors and architectural style in every way, since inappropriate metal porch railing designs or colors will take away from the market value of the home.

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Decorate A Porch Or Patio

Spruce up your patio or porch with furniture and accents.

Decorate your outdoor patio or porch much as you would the inside of your home. Create a comfort zone with pillows, color, plants, and comfy chairs, lots of small tables, and special touches like small vases of flowers. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Place a wicker-framed sofa covered in a neutral weatherproof fabric. This will be your focal piece.

2. Accent your sofa with cane or wicker side chairs.

3. Throw on a few bright pillows for vibrant accents.

4. Add small tables around your sofa side chairs to give your guests a place for their drinks and food.

5. Mix textures and colors outdoors. Use a sisal rug for texture. Colorful cotton print fabrics, in florals especially, liven up an outdoor space or patio.

6. Place a colorful tray on top of an ottoman or table to hold your drinks and snacks.

7. Pair a wooden dining table with lightweight chairs for a relaxed feel to your patio or porch, if you have the space. Folding chairs are also a cheap and easy option.

8. Include accessories like melamine plates and plastic glassware for more color and style. They don't break and are heavy enough not to blow away. There is a vast array of colors and styles available to suit your taste.

9. Add votive candles, LED lighting, books and magazines, and small vases of cut flowers. These items will add a homey touch and encourage your guests to linger and enjoy your patio or porch get-together longer.

Tags: patio porch, your patio, your patio porch, side chairs, small tables, small vases, small vases flowers

The Best Paints To Use On Outdoor Shelves

If you use the wrong type of paint on exterior shelves, fading and cracking may result. Because they are exposed to harsh weather and ultraviolet rays, outdoor shelves require a durable finish able to hold up to varying weather conditions. Unfortunately, no type of paint will last on improperly prepared shelves. Learn condition your shelves for good adhesion, or flaking will result.

The Wrong Paint

Ordinary eggshell, satin, semi-gloss and gloss latex paint are fine for interior shelves that aren't forced to endure direct sunlight, rain and cold weather. These types of water-based paints won't prove resilient on exterior shelves. Though the finish may look attractive and durable at the outset, over time, significant fading and premature wear will begin to appear.

Acrylic Paint

A quality exterior acrylic latex paint will prove more durable than ordinary latex paint. This particular type of paint will hold up against ultraviolet rays and harsh weather conditions. Unfortunately, it may not remain durable when subjected to duress. If the shelves are forced to hold heavy items, chipping and fading may occur.

Acrylic Enamel

Acrylic enamel is well suited for exterior shelves. It can expand and contract in varying temperatures and will not fade when exposed to sunlight. It is also very glossy and hard. These characteristics allow it to endure abrasion and hold heavy items.

Primer

If you apply any type of paint directly over bare exterior shelves, rapid paint failure will ensue. To prepare the shelves for adequate adhesion, apply a primer base. Acrylic primers are well suited for exterior wood shelves; however, the primer will not bond to exterior metallic shelves. Choose a rust-inhibiting metal-etching primer for metal shelves, or you'll have no chance at achieving strong paint adhesion.

Considerations

If you use an acrylic enamel, you do not need to apply any sort of clear sealer. However, if you choose an acrylic paint, you can apply a clear polyurethane sealer to help protect the finish from premature wear. Ensure the sealer is water based, or cracking and poor adhesion may result.

Tags: exterior shelves, type paint, latex paint, paint will, conditions Unfortunately, harsh weather, heavy items

Remove Rust From Metal Wall Art

While most metal wall art has a protective coating to prevent rusting, you may have a piece that for whatever the reason has begun to rust. If a rusted look is not something you desire, you will need to clean the rust off and prevent further rusting with a rust preventing primer and paint. Rusted wall art can be cleaned with a rust remover with great success. The artwork can be restored to like-new condition. Remove the rust as soon as it begins to appear to prevent a large cleaning job. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Brush off any loose pieces of rust with a soft-bristle brush by brushing the surface in a small circles while applying moderate pressure.

2. Mix rust cleaner with water in a cleaning pan. Dip the soft-bristle brush and work the cleaning solution over the surface of the metal wall art.

3. Brush the wall art with a wire brush and refine the cleaning process with a steel wool pad until all the rust is removed. Allow the art piece to dry.

4. Spray an even coat of rust preventing metal primer onto the art piece. Allow the primer coat to dry for at least four hours. Apply two coats of rust preventing metal paint to the art piece, allowing four hours between coats.

Tags: rust preventing, four hours, metal wall, preventing metal, rust preventing metal

Diy Window Security Without Using Bars

Protecting a window from an outside intruder doesn't force you to place bars over the glass, ruining the decor as well as announcing to a possible intruder that you have something worth protecting. There are a number of ways to go about adding security to the window; the procedures require items available at a hardware store and security supply center. A few common supplies and tools from around the house are needed as well. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Apply security film on the inside of the window to prevent the window from being smashed in. Clean the side of the window that is inside the house by first spraying it with glass cleaning spray. Wipe the window dry with a soft cloth. Place the window film that has been cut to the same dimensions as that of the window at a hardware store on the floor. Remove the paper backing from the window film. Hold the window film with the sticky side facing away from you. Place the top edge of the window film against the top edge of the window, lining up the left and right sides. Press down on the window film as you run it down the length of the window. Squeegee any air bubbles by pressing the edge of a car window squeegee against the top edge of the film and running it down the length of the window.

2. A wireless window sensor will not betray its presence while sending a signal to trigger an alarm if the window is disturbed. First open the window and screw a sensor plate to the bottom of the window with wood screws using a Phillips screwdriver. Close the window almost all the way. Slide the sensor receiver plate onto the window sill so that it lines up with the sensor plate. Raise the window and screw the sensor receiver plate onto the window sill with wood screws using the Phillips screwdriver. Open the compartment lid on the back of the wireless transmitter that is connected to the sensor receiver plate. Insert batteries into the battery compartment and close the lid. Place the wireless transmitter on the wall beneath the window sill. Screw the transmitter to the wall with wood screws using the Phillips screwdriver. Press the "Sync" button on the wireless transmitter and on the wireless control panel for the wireless security system to sync the two.

3. A window security lock will keep the window closed when you want it to be so, yet let you release the lock to open the window at will. Drill a hole partly into the bottom edge of the window on the inside of the home with a portable drill. Smooth the inside edges with medium-grit sandpaper. Wipe the dust and other contaminants from the window sill with a water-moistened paper towel. Place the window lock on the window sill so the locking bar faces the hole. Screw the window lock to the window sill with wood screws using the Phillips screwdriver. Rotate the knurled knob on the top of the window lock clockwise to extend the locking bar into the hole in the window.

Tags: window sill, window film, edge window, Phillips screwdriver, screws using, screws using Phillips, using Phillips

Attach Pillars To Iron Gates

Strap hinges range from plain to very ornate.

Iron gates are used for decorative purposes as well as for safety and securing property. Most pillars are built of concrete or brick. For aesthetics, some pillars are iron posts that have been encased in wooden boxes. Because iron gates can be too heavy for one person to lift safely, it is advised to enlist a helper when attaching the gates to the pillars. A third person would be helpful in marking the placements for carriage bolts and screws. There are dozens of hinge styles to choose from, but they basically all work the same. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. The gate is attached to stationary pillars.

Open the packages of hinges. Decide on the placement, using one hinge near the top of the gate and the other near the bottom of the gate. With one side of the gate lying on the ground with the inside facing up, place the long side of the hinge on the gate.

2. Align the hinges. Trace the outline of the carriage bolt holes. Drill the three holes for the carriage bolts for both hinges.

3. The short side of the hinge will be screwed into the pillar.

Hold the gate upright and place the bolts in the holes, securing them with the nuts and washers that came with the hinge sets. With the gate next to the pillar, support it with the wooden blocks underneath to achieve the proper height. The short side of the hinge will be between the gate and the pillar.

4. Use masonry bits to pre-drill screw holes in the pillars.

Open the short side of the hinge against the pillar. Mark the screw holes. Pre-drill the screw holes with a bit slightly smaller than the diameter of the screws. Screw the top hinge into the pillar first, then screw the bottom hinge into the pillar.

5. Repeat steps 2 through 4 for the other side of the gate. Have a helper hold the second side of the gate in place in complete alignment with the first side of the gate before marking the screw holes.

Tags: screw holes, side gate, side hinge, into pillar, short side

The History Of Cast Iron Beds

Reproductions of cast iron beds are popular bedroom decor choices.

Despite the availability of lightweight, modern materials, iron beds continue to be popular throughout the world. The original iron beds were made of cast iron and date back to ancient times. Does this Spark an idea?

Original Beds

The production of cast iron is traceable back to 550 B.C. China. Pouring hot raw iron into molds shaped the metal. These antique beds are rare and usually used strictly for decorative purposes as mattresses and box springs have to be custom made to fit the nontraditional dimensions of the frame.

Wrought Iron

As manufacturing processes improved and lighter weight metal alloys were developed, cast iron beds fell out of favor. Wrought iron bed frames were popular during Victorian times and were handmade, rendering significant differences in the dimensions of the frames.

Antique Reproductions

Factories now produce cast iron beds that duplicate the styles and decorative features of originals. For practical purposes, these reproductions typically have posts and spindles made of steel and use only cast iron to create antique-like effects on the headboards and footboards.

Tags: cast iron, iron beds, cast iron beds

Restore Your Cast Iron Grill Grates

Unlike other cookware, you can restore cast iron surfaces.

Cast iron grill grates age over time and need proper care to stay in good condition. Burnt food particles, grease and other debris accumulate on the grates, preventing them from retaining their natural nonstick properties. If you leave the grates outdoors during the winter or don't use them for long periods of time, this may cause them to rust or grow mildew. The grates can usually be cleaned and restored. However, you may need to replace the grates if there is a large accumulation of rust that you can't remove or if the rust has eaten through large portions of the grate. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Scrub the cast iron grill grates with a dry wire brush to remove rust, burnt food particles, mildew and other debris. Scrub off as much as possible, and use a metal scraper to chip off large chunks if necessary.

2. Coat a paper towel in vegetable oil. Rub the grill grates with the oil, and continue wiping and rubbing the grates until they come clean.

3. Soak another paper towel with white distilled vinegar and use it to remove any remaining rust spots. The vinegar is not necessary unless the rust does not come off with the oil.

4. Apply another layer of vegetable oil to the grates. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit, or preheat your grill on low.

5. Place the oil-coated grill grates in the preheated oven or covered grill for 30 minutes. Check the grates and apply more vegetable oil if they dry out. Return to the oven and check them every 30 minutes for one to two hours.

6. Wipe the grates off with a clean, dry paper towel, then apply a final thin coat of vegetable oil. Turn the heat off. Leave the grates in the oven or grill until they cool completely.

7. Store the grill grates indoors in a dry location when they are not in use.

Tags: grill grates, grates with, paper towel, food particles, grill grates with

Rustic Fireplace Decor

Rustic fireplace decor brings warmth to the room.

Create a homey, warm glow with rustic fireplace decor in your home. Family and friends will feel comfortable gathering around the fireplace when you design with comfort, function, mood and rustic style in mind. Many of the rustic fireplace designs incorporate natural products, such as stone, wood and metal, as well as antiques that transform the fireplace into the room's centerpiece. Does this Spark an idea?

Screens

Fireplace screens have become works of art as well as necessary fire safety equipment. Ensure that the screen keeps sparks and embers inside the fireplace, then go free with the design. Choose metal screens with animals marching across the front, or you can have a forest of trees or a scene with fishing instead. Simple screens made of a single panel or arch will also keep the rustic theme intact.

Tools

Carry the rustic theme through to the hearth tools. You can buy hand-forged fireplace tools that look like twigs or stands of trees. Equip your hearth with a broom, fireplace poker, shovel and fireplace andirons. These pieces can be shaped like animals such as horses, fish and bears. Handles can be fashioned out of pine, hickory or other fine wood.

Log Holders and Carriers

Find a big metal can or a woven basket that can hold pine cones or fireplace wood. Place it to the side of the fireplace tools or screen. Simple metal log racks or baskets can hold a few pieces of wood. A kindling metal or wood basket holds the fire starter. Many of these designs incorporate animals or forests into the piece. If you prefer a simple design, select a forged iron wood holder or iron log basket.

Accessories

Choose a matchbox holder made from slate or cast iron, and keep the matches on the fireplace mantle. It can be designed with images of wildlife, nature or remain plain. A hearth drying rack will have hooks to hang mittens or hats on to dry by the fire. Put a metal clock with a moose or bear face on the mantel. A small lamp on the mantel offers additional light as well as coziness. Carry the rustic theme with a shade or base fashioned after animals or nature. Photographs in wood or metal frames on the mantel will add a familial feel to the room.

Tags: rustic theme, Carry rustic, Carry rustic theme, designs incorporate, fireplace decor

Hang A Wreath On A Door Without A Nail

Don't cover a peep hole or door knocker with the wreath.

Nailing a wreath to a door causes an unsightly hole that mars the wood surface if you ever decide to remove the wreath. Other options are available to prevent this. Wreaths are available in many colors and styles that accentuate the exterior of your home. They add curb appeal to the house as well. Using an alternative way to hang the wreath enables the homeowner to change the decor often. This prevents leaving many holes due to different size decor. Attractive door wreaths looks inviting and make a memorable first impression to visitors. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pick a door wreath hanger that is made of metal. These are more durable than plastic and just as inexpensive.

2. Place the door wreath hanger on the top center of your storm door. Set it on the interior door if your storm door has clear glass where you can still view the wreath. This protects it from wind and harsh weather conditions.

3. Hang the wreath on the bottom hook of the wreath hanger by lifting it over the hook and then pulling it down to secure it. Reposition it if it is crooked.

Tags: wreath hanger, your storm door, door wreath, door wreath hanger, storm door

Decorate A Four Poster Bed

Fabrics can help frame a four poster bed.

Four poster beds are an elegant and dramatic focal point of any bedroom. They can be customized to fit with any desired decor and style, from antique to modern. While it might seem like a four poster bed is out of your price range, they can often be found in inexpensive ways such as at garage sales or thrift stores. If you want to add further interest to a stately four poster bed, you can use paint and fabrics to create a personalized touch for your room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Use the four posts of your bed to create a fabric canopy. This creates an intimate setting that is also decorative and inviting. For an open canopy, wrap your fabric around one post and connect to the next post to complete the circuit. If you want your canopy top enclosed, lay fabric over the top of the posts and tie in place with ribbon or coordinating fabric.

2. Use paint to make a charming and personal statement with your four poster bed. Before painting, lightly sand the area you want to cover to help the paint properly adhere. Clear the surface of any dust with a warm, damp rag and dry fully. Apply your paint in your desired design using stencils or your own hand-drawn pattern.

3. Create a medieval-inspired space by accenting your four posts with richly colored and heavily textured fabrics. These can be hung to the posts behind the bed, serving as a substitute for a headboard. These fabrics can be held in place like a canopy for the posts.

4. Use sheer fabrics, tulles or mosquito netting to wrap around your four poster bed. This not only creates a romantic and inspired ambiance, it can complement a nature or East Asian-inspired bedroom. Use rope and decorative materials to wrap around your posts and anchor your tulle or netting in place.

Tags: four poster, your four, around your, four posts, wrap around, wrap around your, your four poster

Fasten A Fence To Trees

Trees can be incorporated into a fence line.

Although there are some problems associated with fastening a fence to trees, sometimes it is the most expedient way to get the fence built. This is especially true when the area to be fenced has lots of trees, as the roots interfere with setting posts, making construction very difficult. If you are going to build a fence and find it necessary to fasten it to trees, it can be done in a way that gives you a strong fence and does not harm the trees. Field fence is one of the best fencing types for such a project. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Wrap each part of the fencing that will be touching the tree with cloth. The fabric provides a barrier to prevent the wire from digging into the bark of the tree and causing damage.

2. Attach the bottom wire to the lowest part of the tree possible by hammering in a fence staple to hold the wire. The size of the staple you use will depend on the tree and how rough or smooth its bark is. Fences attached to trees usually do not fit close to the ground, as the trees roots interfere with a tight fit. However, in most cases you can get the fence low enough to keep out all but the smallest animals.

3. Pull the fencing up, making it as tight as you can vertically along the tree. Staple the middle wire tightly to the tree. Repeat this process for the top wire.

4. Move to the next tree or fence post down the line. Make sure the wire is stretched tight between this post and the tree, and attach the fence to this post.

5. Return to the tree and check that the fence is properly stretched from bottom to top. There should not be any kinks or folds in the fencing. Fasten the rest of the horizontal strands to the tree by pounding in fence staples to hold each wire.

6. Repeat this process for any other trees in the fence line. Always stretch the fencing from the bottom to the top, so that you don't end up with any fencing folded onto the ground.

Tags: fence line, from bottom, interfere with, Repeat this, Repeat this process

Replace Wood Bannisters With Wrought Iron

New banisters offer a modern updated look in a home.

Banisters offer a place to hold while going up or down a flight of stairs, making them a necessary safety feature. Some banisters have intricate designs to add interest and an element of design to the staircase. A banister refers to all parts of the handrail, including the upright supports or balusters, brackets and newel posts. Replacing wood with wrought iron only differs in terms of the look you are trying to achieve. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove all screws holding the wood banister to the wall. Screws are located through the brackets and secure the banister to the wall.

2. Cut through the balusters and newel post with a saw, cutting as closely as possible to the stair treads without damaging them. Balusters are the upright posts that support the handrail. A newel post is the upright support that is at the base of the stairs and at any turns in the direction of the staircase. It is larger than the balusters.

3. Chip out the base of the balusters and newel posts with a thin chisel and a hammer carefully so as not to damage the stair treads. Carpenters use wood glue to secure the balusters and newel posts into holes drilled into the stair treads.

4. Sand the holes in the stair treads with a medium-grit sandpaper to remove excess dry glue.

5. Vacuum the holes and stairs treads to remove sawdust, bits of dried glue and other debris.

6. Fill the hole halfway with an epoxy based adhesive.

7. Fit the new wrought iron balusters into the existing holes in the stairs.

8. Screw the brackets into the wall, using the old screw holes as a guide. Place anchors into the old screw holes and screw into the anchors to prevent a loose banister.

9. Place railings through the brackets and over the top of the balusters into the pre-cut holes on the underside of the handrail. Secure the handrails to the balusters with epoxy-based adhesive.

10. Allow the epoxy-based adhesive to dry completely, usually four to six hours.

11. Fill in the depressions around the base of the balusters with wood putty. Use a flexible putty knife to press the wood putty into the hole deeply and build it up to sit slightly higher than the surface of the stair tread.

12. Allow the wood putty to dry completely, usually three to four hours.

13. Sand the wood putty smooth and level with the stair tread using fine-grit sandpaper.

Tags: stair treads, wood putty, balusters newel, newel posts, balusters into, balusters newel posts, balusters with

Furnish A Sun Room

Sun rooms are popular addition to houses in warm climates.

A sunroom, sometimes known as a Florida room, is a room with normal walls but lots of windows, allowing a large amount of natural light into the interior. Enjoying the scenery is one of the main purposes of a sunroom, which is also used for entertaining and relaxing. While you should furnish your sunroom according to your personal tastes and decor preferences, there are a few things you should keep in mind to get the most out of the space. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Furnish your sunroom with lightweight furniture to help create an outdoors look and make it easy to move pieces around. Remember that your room will have a lot of light shining in, so choose items that are fade resistant. Wicker or rattan is ideal, but if you don't like the rustic look, wrought iron is a good alternative. Check the labels on furniture items in the store, as they are often marked as being suitable for sunrooms.

2. Arrange your furniture to meet your particular needs. If you plan to enjoy family meals in the sunroom, place a large table and chairs in the center of the room. If the primary function of the space is recreation and relaxation, place lounging chairs and sectionals beside occasional tables. A cocktail table with an extendable tray is a good addition if you plan to entertain guests in the room.

3. Accessorize the space with trunks, which are perfect for storage and can double up as additional seating for guests. Attach a hanging ceiling light and place a couple of floor lamps in the corners of the room, so that you can use the space when the sun goes down. A lamp on a side table provides extra task lighting if you plan to read or sew in your sunroom. Decorative bird cages and tall vases with colorful flower arrangements are good items to carry on the outdoors theme. Fill the room with plants, safe in the knowledge that they will receive plenty of natural light. Certain plants, such as tropical plants, thrive in a sun room environment.

4. Install window treatments to keep heat out in the summer and retain heat in the winter. Cellular blinds keep light out of the room when it is not being used and prevent furniture from fading. Wooden blinds are insulating, while sheer blinds are a softer option that still keeps sunlight out and provides privacy.

Tags: your sunroom, natural light, room with

Hang A Wine Rack

With the interest growing in wine today, more people are buying wine to keep at home instead of buying a glass or bottle at their favorite restaurant. Hanging wine racks are a great space saver and keep your favorite vintages at your fingertips. You don't need to have a stranger come into your home to hang your new wine rack, this is a fairly easy project that doesn't take up a lot of your spare time. You can hang your own wine rack and have your own collection of wines stored and ready for use in no time. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pick the spot you want to place your wine rack. Assemble your wine rack and check the dimensions so that you know where to place your screws or fasteners. Find your closest studs in the wall, you can do this by lightly tapping your hammer along the wall. There will be a solid sound when you find the stud, otherwise, you will hear a more hollow sound. Your stud is important because that will help to hold your wine rack firmly in place. Once you have found your studs, they should be about 16 inches apart, take your pencil and mark where you want to fasten your wine rack

2. Use your tape measure to make sure that the distance between screws on both boards are the same. Drill holes in your wall where you want to hang your rack. Measure the distance between your holes in the wall and mark your boards the same. To make this easier, you can also drill holes into your boards. There should be at least two screws in each of your wood board.

3. Place your first board onto the wall where you have already drilled your holes. Screw the drywall screws through your board and into the holes that you drilled into the wall. Make sure that the screws are fastened tightly. Repeat this step for your other board

4. Take your level and place it on top of each of your boards to make sure that your boards are level. If not, remove screws and adjust accordingly. To ensure that your wine is stored correctly, a level wine rack is required.

5. Take the screws or fasteners that came with your wine rack and hang accordingly to the instructions.

Tags: your wine, wine rack, your wine rack, your boards, hang your, sure that

Remove Rust From Antique Iron Headboard

An iron headboard can rust over time if left unprotected. The rust is easy to remove using items found at the local hardware or home improvement store. Using a light hand and soft abrasives keeps the item from becoming pitted or scratched from the process of removing rust. Acids can cause further damage to the headboard and should be avoided. In areas that are rusted all the way through, the iron will need to be completely removed to protect the integrity of the headboard. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Removing The Rust

1. Place a drop cloth on the floor and move the headboard on to the cloth. Keep the headboard in an upright position for easier maneuvering and rust removal.

2. Rub the rusted area using a fine bronze wool pad. Use mineral spirits (paint thinner) with the pad if desired. Mineral spirits will not remove patina but may remove other paint on the headboard. Protect painted areas as needed.

3. Wipe away excess mineral spirits using a clean cloth. Use a separate clean, dry cloth to remove dust and debris.

Tags: clean cloth

Cook With A Wood Range Stove

Cooking with a wood range makes practical use of a natural element: fire.

Cooking on a wood range is more challenging than cooking on a gas or electric stove, but it can be much more rewarding. Unlike on gas or electric stoves, working with the hottest and coolest areas of the stovetop controls temperature, along with dampers and regulators that control the path the smoke takes on its way to the chimney. Cooking on a wood stove can be rewarding if only from the satisfaction you will get from mastering the art. And there's nothing quite like the smell of bread baking on a cold winter day. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Getting to know your stove

1. Inspect your wood range to determine where all your draft vents are located. Depending upon the type of stove you have, you will have an oven damper, usually located near the back of the stove, a main draft regulator and check draft regulator near the firebox, and a damper set into the side of the stovepipe.

2. Start a fire in the stove with all the vents open, and adjust them until you have a strong steady flame. Add more dry wood to keep the fire burning steadily. Notice which areas of the stove are hottest and which are coolest. The two hottest lids, which some people call "eyes," are located right over the firebox. This varies depending on the type of stove you have.

3. Fill a saucepan with water and place it on one of those lids. If your stove doesn't have a temperature gauge built into the oven door, place an oven thermometer on the oven rack. Check the flame in the firebox to make sure it is still burning steadily. Leave the oven damper open to allow the hot smoke to circulate around the oven.

4. Add more wood to the firebox as needed to keep the stove hot enough to bring the pot of water to a rolling boil. This could take up to 30 minutes depending upon how quickly the stovetop heats up. Keep green wood nearby to add to a fire that is burning too hot and slightly larger dry hardwood logs to keep the fire burning at a steady rate.

5. Slide the saucepan slowly away from the hot stove lid. Use the potholders or oven mitts, and pay attention to what happens to the water as you do this. The boiling will start to slow down depending upon what area of the stove you move the pan to. Move the pan around to get an idea of what effect the heat in different locations has on the boiling water.

6. Open the oven door using the potholders or oven mitts and check the temperature on the thermometer. You will be able to bake once the oven temperature reaches at least 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Practice using your stove with something simple at first, like frying an egg on the stovetop, or baking a cake mix in the oven.

Tags: wood range, your stove, burning steadily, Cooking wood, draft regulator

Decorate Windows With Iron Curtain Rods

Iron curtain rods accentuate the drama of elaborate window treatments.

Iron curtain rods can be a unique accent to any room. The rough metal finish adds an Old World detail to your windows, especially when paired with fitted window treatments. Iron curtain rods are easy to install, though they may be heavier than regular curtain rods. Selecting the best window treatments for the rods may be more time-consuming, as you need to consider both your personal taste in window treatments and what best complements your existing decor. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select the window treatments that you want to pair with the iron curtain rods. Take pictures of your curtain rods in the light most common to the room, and take the pictures to the store with you. Iron curtain rods can appear heavy and ornate, so select window treatments that complement that style. Select curtains in a color that complements the patina of the rods themselves. Consider the rest of the decor in the room. If you have heavily patterned furniture throughout the room, drapes in a solid color but a heavy, luxurious fabric would be most appropriate.

2. Climb onto your step-stool and use the stud finder to locate the studs above your window. Mark the studs with your pencil. These are the spots where you will be attaching the rod brackets to hold up the iron curtain rod. With some window treatments, you can install the brackets into drywall. However, iron rods are heavy and need the support of the studs.

3. Hold the brackets over your pencil marks and use the drill or screwdriver to drill the screws into place. You need at least three brackets: one for each end, and one to support the middle of the rod. Install a bracket every three feet if the rods are longer than normal.

4. Slide the curtains over the curtain rod, with the front of the fabric facing out. Lift the curtain rod with the curtains on it over the brackets, and lower the rod into place. Adjust the curtains so that they lie evenly on the iron rod.

5. Consider using loose fabric and draping it over the rods as swag instead of installing traditional drapes. The loose fabric can give balance to an otherwise heavy accent like the iron curtain rods. Loose fabric is often less expensive than curtains, and you can easily change it if you alter your room's decor.

Tags: window treatments, curtain rods, iron curtain, Iron curtain rods, curtain rods, curtain with, curtains over