Early Italian Furniture

Coveted by many for its grandiose qualities and emphasis on workmanship, early Italian furniture always remains popular both for furnishing the family home and collecting. Indeed, the Italian furniture tradition has a long and complicated history with roots in Greco-roman antiquity and a birth in the Renaissance. Does this Spark an idea?

Beginning of the Italian Renaissance

During the 14th century, Italy became the first European country to emerge out of the dark ages and turn to inspiration from Ancient Greece and Rome. This change first manifested itself in architecture, but soon spread to furniture. In fact, furniture shops usually operated under the supervision of designers who were often architects themselves. Meant to invoke the grandiose buildings, furniture became large and imposing. Carvers shaped straight legs with the Doric and Ionic columns of Greek temples in mind.

Materials

The Italian renaissance saw the rise of furniture meant to be sturdy and impressive but also decorative. Pieces often featured detailed inlays carved from marble, ebony, and ivory. Furniture makers created beautiful patterns from stones carefully grouped according to color. They gave up traditional woods such as oak in favor of harder, more vibrant woods like chestnut, fir and walnut. They also incorporated new elements and materials such as iron, metal and leather and used contrasting woods in the same object to create a stunning visual effect.

Typical Renaissance Pieces

The cassone, or decorated chest, exemplifies Italian renaissance furniture. Indeed, it was the first type of piece to take on an architectural influence and was sometimes fashioned in the style of roman sarcophagi. Other popular styles included portable folding chairs that had seats made of leather and chairs that stood on solid panels instead of legs.

Baroque Italian Furniture

Furniture during the later baroque period (1600s) looked even heavier than that of the Italian renaissance. At this time, the Catholic Church was trying to use furniture and architecture as an inspirational weapon against the encroaching threat of Protestantism. Baroque carvers fashioned furniture pieces in symmetrical shapes, emphasized contrast of light and dark, and included a lot of ornaments such as C-scrolls, S-scrolls and human figures. All of these were meant to invoke movement but later earned the baroque period its derogatory name, which means "misshapen pearl."

Venetian

Moving into the 18th and 19th centuries, Italy had disintegrated into separate states and each of these had their own styles. Furniture makers in Venice developed one of the most famous of these styles. Venetian furniture centered around cabinets, shelves, and especially mirrors. Carvers fashioned local woods such as walnut or olive into pieces with simple legs and very ornate uppers. They often painted the furniture pieces, and black with pearl or silver handles was a common theme.

Tags: Italian renaissance, baroque period, chairs that, Furniture makers, furniture pieces, Italian furniture

Decorative Styles

Wrought iron hinges add elegance to rustic furniture in French Country design.

Fabric swatches, color palettes, furniture design selection, wall treatments -- coming up with a cohesive interior design can be overwhelming for fledgling designers. Selecting one specific decorative style of the many that have developed over the centuries narrows the focus as each have distinctive style lines, design patterns and color palettes that tend to work well with one another. Does this Spark an idea?

Mid-Century Modern

To get a quick picture of the Mid-Century Modern design style, imagine or find an image of the retro, molded-plastic egg chairs of the 1960s. Words like sleek, curved, ergonomic, even space-age come to mind as descriptors -- words which also sum up the basics of the Mid-Century Modern decorative style. However, Mid-Century Modern encompasses more than the 1960s and early 1970s; most design experts include the modern designs of post-WWII 1940s and 1950s while others expand the design style to incorporate the sleek Art Deco designs of the early 1930s. Whatever decade your furniture and accessory selections come from, just ensure they have curving, organic lines, shiny plastic or lacquer surfaces and a high color contrast, which pairs bright, light colors with dark, almost black hues.

French Country

The country style typically includes rough-hewn wood, gingham and vintage crocks, but French Country has a touch more elegance and refinement. Plank board curios or cabinets are finished with ornate hinges and are typically painted in light colors, such as pale blue or butter yellow, rather than stained a natural wood tone. Furnishings in a French Country design tend toward more formal lines in style, such as Louis XIV chairs, however these chairs in their original condition are not typically French Country. Give the formal furniture of traditional French design the appropriate country look by painting out the woodwork with light paint colors and recover the cushions in classic toile fabric.

Eclectic

Place oriental silkscreen prints suspended over a contemporary sofa that is next to a rustic wood table enhanced with sleek, modern accessories; at first glance, the eclectic decor style might seem too advanced for all but the most seasoned designers. The secret to creating the eclectic style, without resorting to getting a degree in design, is to find a simple, common theme other than the specific time period or culture. A narrow, refined color palette, such as browns, burgundies and golds, creates continuity in a design scheme that might otherwise seem a chaotic jumble of decor styles. Opposites do attract in design, so pair intricate patterns near solid, unadorned objects to keep the room from looking busy.

Tags: French Country, Mid-Century Modern, color palettes, Country design, decorative style, design style, French Country design

Decorate A Rustic Style Bedroom

Use wash tubs as rustic accent pieces.

To decorate your bedroom with rustic charm, invite the sights and textures from outdoors into your home. After all, rustic style decorating---according to the Home Decorating Reviews website---is about connecting with the outdoors. If you love rustic, country style, decorate your bedroom with items from nature, natural-looking elements and outdoorsy pieces. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Create a neutral blank slate. Paint bedroom walls with neutral or earth tones. Use neutral tones such as white or gray or earth tones such as olive, tan or shades of brown. Additionally, unless you have wood flooring, carpet the room in a neutral or earth tone.

2. Bring in a rustic bed. Home Decorating Reviews suggests a pole log bed. Alternatively, a wrought iron bed will add the rustic look of outdoor architecture.

3. Add pieces of rustic, texture-rich furniture. Home Decorating Reviews suggests knotted wood or log furniture and pieces with a natural, worn finish. Include items such as a distressed or antique dresser, country rocking chair, stick chair and pole log sofa.

4. Accessorize with rustic-style accents. Hang a natural grapevine or straw wreath on the closet door. Bundle a cluster of eucalyptus sprigs and tie with raffia to hang over the window. Additionally, Home Decorating Reviews suggests rag rugs, country quilts, old advertising signs, a wash tub magazine holder and water can vases.

Tags: Decorating Reviews, Home Decorating, Home Decorating Reviews, Decorating Reviews suggests, Reviews suggests, bedroom with, decorate your

Remove Paint & Rust From Iron Gates

Rusty iron gates require special attention.

Iron is a strong, plentiful metal; as such, many gates are made from it. Iron is not resistant to rust, however. After years outside, your iron gates, even if they were painted, most likely need attention. Rust forms on unprotected parts of the gate, especially near the hinges and lock area where paint is likely to chip or break off. A simple solution is to repaint the gates after removing all the old paint and rust. If you are no stranger to physical work and using wire brushes or grinders, this project will be no problem for you. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Assess the extent of the rust on the gates and prepare accordingly. The more rust you have to remove, the more brushes and grinding discs you will need.

2. Brush away the paint and rusted areas on the gate using a stiff wire brush. Rub the brush back and forth to remove the rust. Make several passes until all rust is removed from an area before moving on to the next. Use a grinder and abrasive metal grinding disc to remove paint on the larger areas of the gate like the vertical slats, but be careful not to grind away too much metal. Use a feather-light touch on thin slats, for instance.

3. Clean up the remaining rust using smaller abrasive pads or steel wool. Rub the pads into the crevices and corners of the gate where necessary. Then clean the surface of the gate with a towel to remove all rust residue.

4. Prime the iron gate with an alkyd-base primer paint. Spray the primer on the gate soon if not immediately after removing the rust. Allow the primer to dry.

5. Apply a coat of exterior metal paint using a spray can for a smoother finish. Let the coat dry and apply a second coat if desired. Be sure not to miss any hard-to-reach spots, or rust will occur.

Tags: after removing, areas gate, gate with, iron gates, remove rust

Make A Kid'S Picket Fence

Corrugated cardboard can be used to make a kid's picket fence.

A child over the age of five can participate in making a corrugated cardboard picket fence to surround a play area or dollhouse. While making the fence with the help of an adult, a child will learn the beginnings of engineering and construction. This picket fence can be left the natural color of the cardboard or painted a traditional white with poster paint. This fence could also be used as a design element for a bedroom headboard. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Draw a 12-by-4 inch rectangle on the poster board with a pencil, using a ruler as a guide. Add a 2-inch high triangle to the top of the rectangle to create a fence slat template.

2. Draw a 15-by-3 inch rectangle on the poster board to create a fence post template. Cut out both templates.

3. Break down the cardboard box into sheets of cardboard with the scissors.

4. Trace the fence slat template on the cardboard 10 times and cut out the cardboard slats with scissors. Trace the fence post template on the cardboard three times and cut out the cardboard posts.

5. Cut four 3-by-20 inch strips of cardboard.

6. Roll the air dry clay into three balls the size of a tennis ball and flatten them slightly. Insert the fence posts in the clay and let the clay harden for two hours. Position the fence posts 18 inches apart.

7. Attach the long 20-inch strips to the fence posts with the hot glue, positioning the strips horizontally three inches from the tops and bottoms of the posts. Attach the fence slats to the strips vertically with the hot glue gun.

Tags: fence posts, with scissors Trace, create fence, fence post, fence post template, fence slat

Repair Railings On Concrete Stairways

If the railings have broken free on your concrete steps it becomes a hazard. In order to replace or repair railings on concrete stairways, follow the steps outlined here. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Repairing a Broken Railing

1. Look for exposed surface bolts that attach the railing to the concrete. Loosen and remove each bolt. Lift up on the stair railing to remove.

2. Inspect the railing carefully. If the repair needed is too extensive you may want to purchase new railings

3. Repair iron-based wood railings by remove the piece of wood needing repair. Using this wood as your template, cut another piece exactly like it, and put back together. If the problem is a result of loose nails, remove the nails one at a time and replace with screws. This should provide for more stability.

4. Take wrought iron railings to a professional iron worker or welder to repair.

5. Return the repaired railing to its original position and tighten down the bolts.

Re-anchoring a Railing to the Concrete Stairway

6. Follow the instructions in Section 1, Step 1, to remove the wrought iron railing.

7. Use a flat headed screwdriver to dig out the hole where the footing of the wrought iron railing had been attached, making it bigger. Use a shop vac to remove the debris from the area.

8. Drill away the concrete using the railing bracket as your template. If only one bolt has broken loose, leave enough concrete so that it does not compromise the other bolt. Use a hammer masonry bit for this job.

9. Replace the railing into the original position and drive a new threaded rod (usually 5/16-inch) through the hole in the railing foot, anchoring it in the hole. This will allow you to mark where you want to cut the threaded rod. Make certain that when you mark it you leave enough room for a nut and lock washer.

10. Secure the rod with the clamps to the sawhorse and cut with a hacksaw to the appropriate length.

11. Mix up enough quick set cement to fill the hole. Once the hole is filled replace the railing and insert the rod (rods) into the holes in its mounting foot. Anchor the rod in by placing a wood piece on top and hitting the wood with a hammer.

12. Put the lock washer on and then screw on the nut, slightly tightening it.

Complete the process when the concrete is dry.

Tags: wrought iron, iron railing, leave enough, lock washer, original position, wrought iron railing

Repair Patio Furniture

Repair Patio Furniture

Patio furniture can take a beating from the natural elements: Rain, wind and snow can cause a great deal of damage to umbrellas and glass patio tables. In addition, patio cushions receive abuse from the sun, which causes fading. To restore your festive outdoor entertainment activities, it is essential to repair your furniture. Wait until winter ends and then choose a time in the early spring to revamp your patio area. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clean up your patio. Then, inspect your patio furniture for damage. Make a list of everything that needs to be repaired as well as the supplies you need. Cushions might need new fabric, a patio table might need glass and umbrellas can be repaired with iron-on patches.

2. Sit on your patio furniture to find any wobbling chairs. Tighten the chair's screws to restore stability. You can even out wobbly chairs by placing felt floor protecting padding under their legs.

3. Fix torn umbrellas by ironing on patches to the top of the material. Snip a small piece of umbrella fabric to take with you to a hobby or fabric store. Pick out an iron-on patch that is made from outdoor material and matches the color. Place the iron-on patch over the tear and iron.

4. Paint over chipped wrought iron furniture. Apply a liquid stripper to the wrought iron. Paint on an aerosol spray primer specifically made for metal that contains a rust inhibitor.

5. Measure patio furniture cushions and purchase outdoor fabric based on their measurements. Pin the fabric directly on the cushions and sew on the old material for quick reupholstering.

Tags: your patio, iron Paint, iron-on patch, might need, Patio Furniture, patio furniture, Repair Patio

What Stores Carry Liquid Fence

Speedy Grow will encourage the growth of houseplants, but don't use it on fruit or vegetables.

The Liquid Fence company manufactures several different animal repellents made without the insecticide DEET -- all of which are natural, according to the company's website. They also make Speedy Grow, which is made from kelp and naturally encourages your indoor and outdoor plants to grow. Find Liquid Fence's products online or at stores in your neighborhood. Does this Spark an idea?

Liquid Fence Website

Liquid Fence's website explains their products thoroughly and allows you to purchase them with a credit or debit card. The best place to find these products is at Liquidfence.com.

Big Box Stores

Stores like Home Depot and Lowe's carry Liquid Fence, but they may not carry all or even many of their products. Both websites offer only the Liquid Fence Deer and Rabbit Repellent. Individual stores, however, may have more products available.

Other Websites

Websites like Amazon.com, Sears.com, Buy.com, ANTOnline.com and Cherrybrook.com carry various Liquid Fence products. Online retailers tend to offer lower prices than retail stores.

Local Hardware or Garden Stores

Check the hardware or garden store in your neighborhood or call ahead to see if they carry Liquid Fence products. Ace Hardware has them in stock, as does True Value. Stores that focus on natural products are the most likely to carry Liquid Fence.

Tags: Liquid Fence, carry Liquid Fence, Fence products, Liquid Fence products, carry Liquid, Speedy Grow

What Decorations Do I Put On A Baker'S Rack

Decorative pasta containers and big spoons can be placed on a baker's rack.

Baker's racks are both decorative and functional. Although there are many styles and sizes, baker's racks typically consist of wood cabinets with a small counter space and metal or wrought-iron shelves on top. Display your favorite kitchen accessories and cooking supplies on its shelves. Use accessories that coordinate with the style of kitchen, such as country, French or modern, and make sure the accessories are properly spaced on the shelves to provide a balanced look. Does this Spark an idea?

Pitchers, Jars and Containers

A baker's rack is the perfect place to display colorful ceramic pitchers and jars. Select an accent color that coordinates with the kitchen. For example, if you have a coastal kitchen, use a light blue or green color. If you have a French country kitchen, use a bright yellow pitcher. Glass containers can also be used. Fill a glass container with your favorite cookies, cookie dough mix or colorful pastas.

Plates, Bowls and Glasses

A baker's rack is a good display for your dishware. Place a colorful, decorative plate on a plate stand and display on one of the shelves. You could also stack four to five colorful plates and place them on the counter. Alternatively, place the decorative plate on the counter and put some fresh fruit, such as apples or oranges, on the plate. Glass vases or a bowl may also be used to display or store your favorite fruits. Some baker's racks have storage for wine glasses. If so, fill the spaces with several wine glasses. Then take a bottle of wine and place it on the counter with two wine glasses.

Cookbooks and Cooking Supplies

Cookbooks may also be stored on a baker's rack. Either stand three to four cookbooks on one side of the shelf or lay them horizontally on the counter. If your kitchen is short on storage, a baker's rack is a great place for cooking supplies. Fill a container with wooden spoons and set on the shelf. Olive oils, salt and pepper shakers may also be placed on the shelves. If there is a shelf on the bottom below the cabinets, place attractive cooking pots. Fill a basket with colorful place mats and napkins and place on the bottom shelf. Hang an apron from the top corner.

Greenery

Greenery is a nice addition to a baker's rack. Use a potted plant or herbs in a decorative pot. A vase filled with fresh flowers is also appealing.

Tags: baker rack, wine glasses, your favorite, also used, baker rack

Cattle Brand Art Projects

Sometimes ranch signs like these include cattle brands.

Cattle brands were, and still are, a means of tracking ranch ownership of cattle or horses. Herds from different ranches often graze together on open grassland and when it comes time to drive them back to the ranch the simple marks, usually placed on the hip or shoulder, are easy to read. The ranch brand is often used as both an identifying logo and as decoration around the homestead. Cattle brand patterns are sold to be used in wood carving, leatherwork and wrought iron work.

Ranch Entryway

You've seen them in old western movies and maybe in person if you happen to be in cattle country. Huge arching entryways emblazoned with the ranch name and the cattle brand the ranch uses can be spotted long before you leave the main road. Sometimes all you see is the brand along with a mounted pair of cattle horns. The wooden entryways are sometimes elaborately carved, using both knife and wood burning techniques. Wrought iron entryways also tend to be quite elaborate and are sometimes paired with equally impressive entry gates with scenes of wildlife or symbols of the ranching life.

Boundary Art

Cattle brands are often used in other types of Western boundary art. Sometimes these gates, fences and mailboxes turn into freeform sculptures that incorporate antique cooking pots, cattle bells, old boots and wagon wheels. Cattle brands could be carved or burned into wood as decoration or the cattle branding irons themselves could be part of the sculpture.

Fireplace Mantel

Cattle ranch brands are often used in decorating the interior of a ranch house. The fireplace may be large and a focal point for the living area. Putting an elaborately carved mantel filled with western scenes, animals and in some cases cattle brands adds a Western feel to the room. Wood artists sometimes carve or wood-burn these from scratch, but there are patterned templates sold that can be traced right on the wood to be used as a guide. The patterned ones leave spaces open to insert your own cattle brands in the work. As a example, one pattern features two horseshoes facing each other attached to a weatherworn piece of wood. The wood has the head of a longhorn steer. You have the option of putting the brand inside the horseshoes or carving it on the wood section. Another is a circle with a star and a longhorn steer head in the center. A small oval is placed at the bottom of the circle for the cattle brand.

(ref 1, 2, 3 and 4 see picture about half way down... information page on commercial site, no selling on this page)

Tags: often used, brands often, brands often used, Cattle brands, cattle brands

Repair Leaky Cast Iron Pipes

Most leaks in cast iron can be repaired.

Over time, cast iron pipes can start to crumble and leak. They can receive wastewater from roof gutters and storm drains. Cast iron pipe can be buried in basement slabs or run along walls held up by special cast iron clamps. Cast iron pipes left in a building with no heat can burst and leak from cold weather. However, most leaks in cast iron can be repaired. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clean the damaged leaky area of cast iron pipe with the wire brush. Scrub the area until no loose pieces of the pipe crumble off. If the leak is in a seal or joint, you will have to take the chisel and hit it with the hammer to loosen the pipe free.

2. Apply the cast iron repair paste with a putty knife to the area you scrubbed. This will fill the area with cast iron.

3. Let the cast iron repair paste dry as instructed on the paste container.

4. After it has dried for the proper amount of time, flush water through the pipe to check for leaks. If there are no leaks, the pipe is fixed. If the pipe still leaks, it was not filled with enough cast iron repair paste or the pipe might need to be replaced.

Tags: cast iron, cast iron, cast iron repair, iron repair, iron repair paste

Pot Rack Ideas

A pot rack is not only a functional way to store your pots and free up space in your cabinets but the right design can add beauty and style to your kitchen. Pot racks can be found in high-end department stores in styles from wrought iron antique to modern chrome, but with a little imagination, you can create gorgeous racks out of salvage and other materials. Does this Spark an idea?

Window Sash Rack

A salvaged window sash with multiple panes makes an interesting pot rack in a country kitchen. Simply hang the window on chains or thick, chunky rope from the ceiling using hooks. If the glass in the panes is loose or damaged, remove the panes first. Install circular hooks on the underside of the window and use S-hooks to hang your pots. You could really turn any salvaged material into a pot rack in much the same manner---other ideas include an old gate or piece of wrought iron fence.

Antique Ladder

A solid antique wooden ladder makes an interesting rustic or primitive pot rack. Simply hang from the ceiling in the same manner as above and hang large S-hooks from the rungs. Make sure your ladder is sturdy enough to carry the weight of the items.

Shelf Rack

A simple chrome shelf like those purchased in department stores can make the perfect pot rack for smaller spaces. Again, use S-hooks to hang pots. For the smallest space, hang a chrome bar with S-hooks so the pots hang flush against the wall.

Build Your Own

Just a little woodworking skill is needed to design and build a totally new structure. Build a simple four-sided box--squares work better for small spaces and rectangular for larger areas--with dowel rod inserts. You could get more creative and use wrought iron poles or wooden banisters if you chose. Paint or stain to complement your decor for a one-of-a-kind pot rack. Hang with hooks and chains. Use S-hooks or cup hooks to hang your pots.

Tags: wrought iron, your pots, chrome with, department stores, from ceiling

Hang Curtains At The Level Of The Ceiling

While curtains are normally perceived as being exclusively used to decorate windows, these panels of fabric can be used in a number of other creative ways. Curtains can be hung at ceiling level to create the illusion of separate spaces and to divide sections of the room from one another. This style of decorating can be particularly useful in studio apartments, as it can provide more privacy in the sleeping area. Whether you are seeking to hang curtains at ceiling level for decorative or practical purposes, it is a moderately easy process. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Use the tape measure to calculate the distance across the ceiling where you want the curtains to hang. Make a mark at each end of the measurement using a pencil.

2. Measure and cut a piece of aircraft cable that is six inches longer than the measurement you took on the ceiling. Use the cable cutter to cut the cable so that you have a clean, precise cut.

3. Drill holes in the ceiling for placement of the hooks. Push in an anchor in each hole and screw in the hooks.

4. Make a loop at one end of the cable and secure it into place using a rope clip. Loop this end of the cable onto one of the hooks suspended from the ceiling.

5. Expand the turnbuckle by loosening the lock nuts at each end. Attach the turnbuckle to the other hook. Stretch the cable across the ceiling until it reaches the turnbuckle. Pull the cable taut through the turnbuckle and tighten the turnbuckle.

6. Remove the turnbuckle and loop the cable through the other hook. Secure the loop in place with a rope clip and use the cable cutter to cut any excess cable.

7. Tug gently at the cable to test the sturdiness of the hooks and the rigidness of the cable. The cable should be pulled taut enough that it is barely able to move. The hooks should be secured tightly and not pull away from the ceiling.

8. Take down one side of the cable and slip your curtains onto the cable. Rehang the loop of the cable on the hook. Arrange the curtains evenly across the cable.

Tags: loop cable, across ceiling, cable cutter, cable that, ceiling level, from ceiling, other hook

Place An Ad In Pennysaver

The Penny Saver is a print and online publication dedicated to advertising classified ads in many different areas of the country. You can sell everything from household goods to homes in the Penny Saver, so if you are looking for another publication to advertise your items for sale you may want to place an ad here.

Instructions

1. Go to Pennysaverusa.com.

2. Click the button in the upper right hand corner labeled "Place a free ad."

3. Choose the specific category for your classified ad. Choose the subcategory for that particular classified category.

4. Choose a title for your PennySaver ad. Try to make this as descriptive as possible so people will want to read through your classified ad. Write a complete description of the item you're looking to sell in the description field.

5. Create a number of related tags to help with the Web-based search form. Enter the price in the next field. Click "Add Photo" if you want to upload any photos. Enter your location and contact details. Click "Place My Free Online Add Now!"

Tags: Penny Saver, your classified

Mount Wood Door Insets

Wooden door insets are decorative panels that are designed to fit into the wooden panels on the door. They provide a decorative detail to wooden door panels. The insets are typically made of metal. Select an inset in a finish that will complement your existing door hardware. For example, if your door hardware is wrought iron, select a wrought iron inset to create a cohesive look to your door. Insets are installed with screws for easy mounting. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Slide the door inset into the door panel on the exterior side of the door. Hold it in place against the door panel and mark the mounting holes in the inset onto the edge of the door panel with a pencil. Set the door inset aside.

2. Drill a pilot hole into the center of each mounting hole marking on the edges of the door panel with a screw gun equipped with a 1/16-inch drill bit. Drill the hole 3/8-inch deep.

3. Place the door inset back into the door panel. Drive the screws that were included with the door inset through the mounting holes in the door inset into the edges of the door panel with the screw gun.

Tags: door panel, door inset, door panel with, panel with, door hardware

Patio Paint Colors

This open air patio has a foundation of classic red bricks.

A patio refers to an outdoor area connected to the main house. They often consist of concrete, stone or brick and sometimes wood and usually do not have a roof or covering. When it comes to painting your patio, you are truly bound by nothing. Paint will transform your patio into a distinctive outdoor space. Does this Spark an idea?

Shades of Red

Red is a warm earthy color and is eye-catching, so it makes the foundation of your patio seem like a true destination. Paint your patio a burnt red color, such as sienna, that has overtones of brown in it. These colors look perfect with a range of patio furniture: Wrought iron and glass furniture strikingly contrasts a patio of this color and wood furniture that naturally has a reddish hue complements it, such as cherry or cedar. Consider painting your patio in a particular fashion that is evocative of red bricks and cement. You don't have to do this in a perfect manner; simply sketch your pattern with chalk first and paint away to give your patio a slightly patterned appearance.

White

Gleaming white and shades of white are appropriate for stone, cement or even patios with accents of wood. White matches the exterior of nearly every house and is particularly suitable for patios in shaded areas that need more light. The white of the patio reflects all the available light, almost like a mirror. If you purchase high quality white paint, it won't stain easily, making the task of cleaning your patio a simple matter of rinsing it off with a hose. White complements any type of patio furniture imaginable, giving you complete decorating freedom.

Stains

Wood and stone patios often look best when you highlight these natural materials. Using tinted stains smooths the surface of such patios and accentuates the natural hue of the stone or wood. For example, a basic oak patio becomes a rich, warm atmosphere with a dark honey or cherry-colored stain. Similarly a stone patio with a tinted bronze or silver stain enhances the innate multi-colored shades of the stones. It creates an environment where your patio feels like an extension of nature rather than an extension of your house.

Tags: your patio, painting your, painting your patio, patio furniture

Make Iron Window And Door Guards

With crime on the rise in many areas, it's important to take the necessary measures to keep your family safe. One inexpensive way is to install iron window and door guards. If you have a welder, you can make these guards yourself. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the inside of your window frame. Cut the iron pieces according to your window's dimensions. You should have four pieces, two for the length and two for the width. Weld the pieces together. These pieces will form the frame for the window guards.

2. Determine the distance you want between the bars. For example, if your window frame is 30 inches wide and you want the bars 6 inches apart, cut four iron bars just a bit under the length of your window frame. These bars need to fit inside the iron frame.

3. Make a mark every 6 inches along the top horizontal piece (width) of the frame. Repeat the same process on the bottom piece. These marks are the top and bottom positions where you'll need to weld the bars.

4. Line up with the first mark on the top and bottom of the frame and weld it in place. Do the same with the rest of the bars.

5. Add one attachment bar to each corner of the window guard; the attachment bars are four pieces of flat iron, long enough to attach the guard to the window frame. Measure from the edge of the guard to the edge of the window frame. Cut and weld your four pieces. Drill a screw hole on the section of the attachment piece that will attach to the window frame and screw the window guard onto the window frame.

6. Follow steps 1 through 4 to make the door iron guard.

7. Weld hinges on one side of the door guard. Attach a latch to lock and unlock the door guard.

Tags: window frame, your window, four pieces, your window frame, door guard, frame weld

Repair A Rusty & Pitted Blacksmith Anvil

This anvil needs some rust removal.

Iron is virtually synonymous with durability but also with rust and corrosion, so an old, disused blacksmith's anvil is sure to come with a rusty, pitted surface. Whether the anvil is desired for decoration or for real use in a workshop, restoring the surface is a necessary step. While repairing a rusty old anvil isn't a complicated task and involves few specialized skills, it is sometimes hard work and involves a considerable investment of time.

Instructions

1. Sand out the pits in the anvil's surface with a power hand-sander using closed-coat sandpaper. Use 80- to 120-grit sandpaper for tiny pits and 40- to 60-grit sandpaper for deep or large pits.

2. Restore a smooth surface to the anvil if removing the pits left behind a scratched surface, which is likely if you used sandpaper rated below 100 grit. Sand any scratched areas again with 120-grit closed-coat sandpaper.

3. Continue sanding the anvil with the medium-to-fine 120-grit sandpaper (or finer sandpaper, if you have it) to remove the rust. If you did not need to remove pits, use a wire brush or wire scouring pad to remove the rust instead.

4. Wipe the surface of the anvil down with mineral spirits.

5. Apply a coat of phosphoric acid or oxalic acid cleanser to the entire anvil. This will eliminate any remaining rust from the surface and in the nooks of the anvil by turning it into a black, crusty substance that is easily wiped away. Wait overnight and then wipe the crust off.

6. Apply a coat of stove black with a paint brush to the outside of the anvil to protect it from moisture and restore a neat, black appearance.

Tags: 120-grit sandpaper, Apply coat, closed-coat sandpaper, remove rust, surface anvil

Fix A Broken Bed Frame

Ornate bed frames can brighten up your bedroom.

There are few things more frustrating than a creaky, unstable bed interrupting a pleasant night's sleep. Beds can develop creaks for a variety of reasons, including excess body weight and warping of wooden slats. Buying a new bed frame is a quick yet expensive solution to such nocturnal aggravations. However, many broken bed frames can easily be repaired by replacing the parts that are cracked or creaking. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Take your mattress off of the bed frame. Mattresses can be very awkward to maneuver so make sure you clear any lamps or other fragile items from around the perimeter of the bed. Having a friend help you will also make the process easier and reduce the risk of injury.

2. Examine the bed frame for any obvious signs of damage. Creaks can be caused by wood warping due to dampness or humidity. This can cause the slats to sag over time, resulting in a creaky frame and an unstable bed frame.

3. Remove any wooden slats or metal beams that are cracked as these may cause the bed to squeak by putting additional weight on the other slats. Most slats can be removed with a screw and screwdriver. Slats that are bonded with glue can be removed by using a hammer to knock them out of place.

4. Fit the new wooden slats or metal beams into the open spaces using glue or a screw and screwdriver or a wrench and metal nuts. Apply pressure to the slats once fitted to ensure they are securely fitted and won't give way under pressure.

5. Apply beeswax or paste wax to the area where the headboard connects to the base of the frame. Beeswax can help soothe the frame's joints and prevent squeaking. Place the mattress back on the bed frame with the help of a friend.

Tags: wooden slats, metal beams, screw screwdriver, slats metal, slats metal beams

Make A Cover For An Iron Bed With Upholstery

Use a heavy upholstery fabric to make a cover for your iron bed's headboard.

Iron beds have been symbols of elegance and status for many years. They first became popular in the late 1800s, when they were made by hand by individual craftsmen and artisans. These works of art were passed down through the generations. After World War I, iron beds began to be mass-produced. Today's iron beds are made of heavy gauge steel tubing and solid bars for strength and durability. If you want a temporary change but don't want to refinish the bed, you can make a cover for its head- and foot-boards to create a different look. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Take measurements of the bed's headboard and footboard and make a template for each with paper. This is especially useful if you are dealing with rounded designs or motifs. Measure where the side rails meet the headboard and footboard and mark that measurement on each side.

2. Place the template on the upholstery fabric and pin it in place. Cut around the template, adding 1 1/2 inches all the way around for a seam allowance. Mark on the fabric where the side rails tie into the headboard and footboard. Cut two pieces each for the headboard and footboard.

3. Create welting or use piping to make a finished edge where you will sew the fabric together. If making welting, measure the diameter of the cord and add 1 inch for the seam allowance. Cut strips of fabric to this width and sew them together in a long strip. Press the seam allowances open. Fold this long strip of fabric over the cord, right side out, and baste it in place using a zipper foot on your sewing machine.

4. Place welting or piping on the right side of one of the pieces of upholstery fabric and pin it in place, raw edges together.

5. Place the second piece of fabric, right side down, on top of the first piece and the welting and pin them all together. Sew the fabric pieces together, with right sides together and the welting/piping sandwiched in between. Begin the seam at the point where you marked the side rail. Sew over the top and down the opposite side to the other side-rail mark. Turn right side out and iron.

6. Press a hem into the side openings and stitch it down. This will leave an opening for the cover to fit over the side rails. Starting a couple of inches down -- enough to leave room for the rails -- attach a hook-and-loop strip to both sides to close.

7. Press a hem into the bottom edges and stitch it down.

8. Slip the cover over the end of the bed and press the hook-and-loop strips together to close the bottoms.

9. Repeat the process for the other bed-end cover.

Tags: headboard footboard, right side, side rails, upholstery fabric, welting piping, cover over

Balcony Garden Ideas

A balcony garden.

Living in an apartment or high rise condominium doesn't mean you can't enjoy the beauty and serenity of a garden. Creating a balcony garden requires some imagination. Regardless of size, any balcony can be transformed into a garden paradise. Does this Spark an idea?

Garden Seating

One of the most important elements to a successful, relaxing balcony garden is the seating. Being able to sit in comfort and enjoy the solitude, or having a place to entertain friends, requires sturdy and appealing seating. The proper seating for a balcony garden depends on the size of the balcony and the atmosphere you're trying to create. A couple of wicker chairs with comfortable cushions fit well on even the smallest of balconies. A larger balcony can handle a small patio set with two to four chairs. The material should be weatherproof and fit with the garden decor.

Plant Selections

Choosing plants for a balcony can take some patience. The location, lighting and size of the balcony all come into play here. Plants that require full sun cannot be planted on a balcony that is in full shade, just as a balcony with a 7 foot ceiling cannot handle plants that grow tall, and a small, compact balcony cannot accommodate plants of an extremely wide berth. Color is another important factor. Creating a relaxing atmosphere of serenity, solitude and peacefulness requires softer colors and lacy leaves, such as those found in ferns, fichus trees, pastel patio roses and hanging petunias. For a bolder garden where you plan to entertain, choose fun plants like painted daisies, bougainvillea, palms and hibiscus. Always be sure to have a watering container available if a watering spigot is not within easy reach.

Garden Lighting

Choosing the correct lighting for a balcony garden depends on the size of the balcony and the surroundings, such as neighbors. In order to best show off the flowers and other plants in your garden, choose floor-track lighting or small, well-placed spot lights in assorted colors. If you prefer overall balcony lighting, a palm blade ceiling fan light or mosaic lamps would be ideal. To be respectful of close neighbors, keep the lighting soft.

Tags: balcony garden, size balcony, balcony garden depends, depends size, depends size balcony, garden depends

Repair A Cast Iron Pipe Leak

Major repairs require a professional.

Cast iron pipes last for a long time, but this does not mean they cannot become damaged and start to leak. Leaks are usually caused by corroding sections, often around the leaded joints. A do-it-yourselfer can repair small leaks in joints and small holes, but a professional should handle large leaks. Cast iron pipes need proper care and maintenance in order to last. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Leaking Joints

1. Turn off the water supply to the pipe. Tap the joint lightly with a cold chisel and hammer. Cast iron pipe joints are soldered with lead; use a cold chisel to push the lead back into the joint.

2. Clean the repair area by removing rust with a wire brush and dusting away debris with a clean rag.

3. Fill the leaking area with a cast iron repair paste applied with a putty knife.

4. Let the area dry before letting water or waste reenter the pipe.

Holes

5. Remove all rust and corrosion from the hole with a wire brush. Dust away debris with a clean rag.

6. Apply plumber's epoxy around the hole so the patch is flush with the existing area, using a putty knife. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on mix the epoxy.

7. Let the area dry before letting water or waste reenter the pipe.

Tags: with wire brush, area before, area before letting, away debris, away debris with, before letting

Repair A Castiron Waste Pipe

Call a professional for major pipe repairs.

Older homes often have cast-iron waste pipes, which can last for decades. Over time, cast-iron pipes can rust through, causing holes, leaking joints or crumbling sections. Repairing small holes or leaking joints is a simple DIY project, but if a section of the cast-iron waste pipe needs to be replaced, then you'll need to call a professional, who will cut out the damaged pipe and replace it with a PVC pipe. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Bad Smells or Water Leaking From Leaded Joints

1. Gently tap the lead back into the joint with a cold chisel and hammer. Be careful when you're tapping not to tap too hard, or further damage could occur.

2. Brush away any rust or corrosion from around the joint with a wire brush and a rag.

3. Apply cast-iron repair paste to the area with a putty knife until the damaged area is filled. Let the cast-iron repair paste dry to the manufacturer's recommendations before you use the pipe.

Holes in Cast-Iron Pipe

4. Clean the area around the hole with a wire brush and a rag until all the rust is removed.

5. Mix two-part plumber's epoxy to the manufacturer's instructions. Press the two-part plumber's epoxy over the hole and mold it to the cast-iron pipe.

6. Let the two-part plumber's epoxy dry to the manufacturer's specifications before you use the pipe.

Tags: plumber epoxy, two-part plumber, two-part plumber epoxy, with wire brush, before pipe

Country And French Decorating With Pot Racks

Pot racks are a type of storage device that typically hang from a hook in the ceiling of a kitchen or are attached to the wall. They were once primarily used as a way to store cooking pots when not in use. Today, the use of the pot rack has somewhat changed and it is often thought of more as an accent piece than traditional kitchen storage. If you desire the French country look for your kitchen, however, installing a pot rack will not only enhance the decorating theme, but give you the extra benefit of vertical storage. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the area where you plan to hang your pot rack to determine what size and style you will need. The French country kitchen is generally designed to allow for the maximum use of space. Depending on the size of your kitchen, you may wish to hang the pot rack from the ceiling or go with the classic type of pot rack that attaches to the wall.

2. Research the type of material you want for your pot rack. In French country decorating, pot racks are typically made of black wrought iron or an antique-painted wood. Some pot racks may even have a rooster motif to add to the French country look.

3. Purchase copper and silver colored pots for your pot rack. Copper and silver not only add a classic look to a French country design, but they are exceptional instruments for cooking as well.

4. Hang a string of garlic or bundle of dried herbs from the pot rack. Use ribbon to hang a single string of garlic or bundle of dried herbs, such as lavender or rosemary from a hook on the pot rack.

Tags: French country, your rack, bundle dried, bundle dried herbs, country look, dried herbs, French country look

Mediterranean Accent Decor Ideas

No Mediterranean-inspired room is complete without a few wrought iron accessories.

Mediterranean style is influenced by Spanish, Italian and southern French design. These three countries top the Mediterranean Sea and allowed for travelers to share ideas that culminated into the creation of a sea-and-fire-inspired style. From Italy's Tuscan design, Mediterranean uses dark, heavy wood for furniture. The bright, vibrant colors of Spain contrast with the dark woods, and the French lend the ornate scroll work for iron wall grilles and mirror frames. The sea is included in the softer tones of blue and green that are also at home in Mediterranean decor. Does this Spark an idea?

Colors

Create the ideal backdrop for Mediterranean accessories with a high contrast color palette. Dark wood furniture and cabinetry are staples in Mediterranean style decorating. Furniture is dark, substantial in scale and often has metal inlays on doors. The darkness of the furniture is in high contrast to white or cream walls that make the darkness pop and creates an air of luxury and sophistication. A Mediterranean kitchen is warmer with yellow-gold, orange or red walls as a backdrop for dark cabinetry.

Metal Accessories

Prominent in any Mediterranean style room is metal. Dark metal is intricately shaped to create wall art, candle holders, frames, mirrors, baskets and decorative accents on furniture. For kitchens and baths, use oil-rubbed bronze fixtures in sinks and bathtubs. Hang an ornate piece of metal relief art on the wall in the living and dining rooms. Place metal base lamps on tables and desks, and display magazines in wrought iron stands.

Terracotta Accessories

The bold rich colors of Mediterranean decor are found in terracotta pottery. Arrange a collection of vases, bowls and pots in every room of your home. Rich orange, red and yellow pop against the dark metal and wood. Place a tall terracotta yellow vase on a table or kitchen counter. Store rice and beans in jars with wrought iron bases. In a bathroom renovation, opt for a terracotta vessel sink on the vanity.

Tapestries, Rugs and Drapery

Richly-colored wall tapestries and floor rugs add texture to a Mediterranean room. Frame windows with silk or velvet drapery for opulence and luxury. Balance the hard lines of wood and metal accents by layering in tapestries and drapery. Rugs anchor furniture and create seating areas while protecting hardwood floors from scrapes. Place matching and coordinating pillows on seating to reinforce the color palette. Add a throw to the back of the couch.

Tags: Mediterranean style, wrought iron, color palette, high contrast, Mediterranean decor

Wrought Iron Projects

Wrought Iron is defined by Princeton University as an iron with low carbon content; wrought iron is pliable and easy to forge because of the low carbon content. This feature makes wrought iron a suitable candidate for household projects like benches and tables as well as for making decorative pieces. Does this Spark an idea?

Book Ends

Book ends can be created according to skill level; some patterns may be more complex and require a higher amount of concentration. Book ends can be made simple or intricate, and you can display them on a fireplace, desk or bookshelf.

Candle Holders

Candle holders are another project that will vary by skill level. Some websites offer free patterns for making candlesticks and candelabra. Beginners may find simple candlesticks within their skill level. Advanced welders can manage intricate designs with candelabra.

End Tables

End tables are one way to display iron working skills. Find a pattern that you are comfortable with; allow plenty of work room to cut metal and create the tables.

Lamp Posts

Lamp posts may be a bit more difficult than beginner projects; however, some websites offer patterns for all skill levels. Lamp posts can be used indoors for decoration or outside as a light source.

Wine Racks

Wrought iron wine racks can be created by all iron working skill levels. Look for a pattern that complements your knowledge and expertise.

Plant Holders

You can find templates for plant holders at various online sites. Plant holders can be singular pieces or complex towers or shelves. Look for patterns that match your abilities.

Art Pieces

Create artistic pieces using wrought iron. You don't need a template or pattern for art; since each person has a different idea of what she wants, create something that you like. You might want to sketch out the plan you have in mind before beginning an art project, but this is optional.

Tags: skill level, Book ends, carbon content, iron working, pattern that, skill levels

Make An Iron Fence Private

Modern wrought-iron fences are actually steel.

Homeowners with an eye for architectural detail install iron fences for both style and security, and a well-loved home surrounded with an iron fence reflects elegance with a hint of Victorian old-world charm. This fence design doesn't lack in attention-catching style, but its open structure does lack privacy. You don't need to feel uncomfortable in your own backyard, however. Create privacy without sacrificing style with landscaping, fabric screening or both. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Determine if fabric screening or a living fence of dense plants is suited to your home's landscape. If necessary, check with your neighborhood homeowners association or your city's zoning department for restrictions on fencing materials.

2. Roll out a screening panel in front of the fence beginning at the leftmost fence post. Continue rolling out the remaining panels in front of their respective fence sections.

3. Lift the first panel against the fence and thread a cable tie through the top left grommet. Secure the panel to the top leftmost corner of the iron fence's horizontal crossbar. Move to the next grommet along the panel's top edge and, like the first grommet, secure the panel with a cable tie. Keep the panel taut as you secure the remainder of the top edge. Do not trim the excess cable tie.

4. Move down the panel's right edge, securing the grommets as you go. Return to the original starting point and secure the panel's left edge, working from the top to the bottom. Finally, secure the bottom edge. Tighten any loose cable ties until the panel hangs evenly. Use scissors or shears to remove the cable ties' extra length.

5. Plant a living screen if fabric panels are not an option. Choose narrow evergreen hedges that have a dense growth habit and take shearing well, such as wax myrtle (Morella cerifera), yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria) or a small hybrid holly (Ilex aquipernyi).

6. A holly's glossy leaves provide contrast against an iron fence's matte finish.

Plant the young shrubs along the fence line, spacing them in accordance with their growth habit. For example, space small hollies 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart.

Tags: cable ties, fabric screening, growth habit, holly Ilex, iron fence

Repair An Ironscorched Wood Table

Properly maintaining wood tables allows them to last longer.

Wood tables are recognized for their durability, longevity and natural appearance. But they are not impervious to heat damage from irons. Placing a hot iron on a wood table can produce unsightly scorching that mars the wood's finish, making the table appear discolored and improperly maintained. Restore iron-scorched wood tables to preserve their aesthetic appeal and overall value. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Combine 1 tbsp. of non-gel toothpaste with 1 tbsp. of baking soda in a bowl. Stir with a spoon until the ingredients are completely mixed. Make this paste only if your table has a lacquered finish. For other wood finishes, dampen a microfiber cloth with mineral spirits.

2. Rub the baking soda paste or the dampened cloth over the scorched wood. Rub the area gently with an extra-fine steel wool pad, following the wood grain. If you are using the paste, rub until the friction causes it to feel warm to the touch.

3. Wipe the wood with a cloth dampened with mineral spirits to wash away any residue and remove grime.

4. Inspect the wood table for remaining scorch marks. If marks remain, repeat the process until they are completely removed.

5. Moisten another microfiber cloth with water. Wring out all excess liquid. Wipe the wood with the moist cloth to rinse away any residue and debris.

6. Wipe the wood with a clean terry cloth towel until completely dry.

7. Spray commercial furniture polish onto the wood surface. Buff the wood in circular motions with a clean microfiber cloth to restore shine.

Tags: microfiber cloth, Wipe wood, Wipe wood with, wood with, away residue, baking soda

Refinish Aluminum Patio Furniture

Thanks to a renewed obsession with all things retro, aluminum patio furniture is more popular than ever. Throw in a modern paint color like Green Apple or Sweet Tomato, both from Rustoleum, and you will be adding a conversation piece to your garden. Dig out that old rusted aluminum patio furniture and start painting. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Thoroughly clean your aluminum patio furniture with your garden hose nozzle turned to its highest pressure setting. Dry with towels or allow the furniture to dry completely before proceeding.

2. Remove existing finish. Paint a thick layer of paint stripper onto the aluminum furniture and allow it to penetrate for 20 to 30 minutes. Use a scraper to remove as much original paint as possible. Use sand paper to remove paint from any stubborn areas.

3. Remove rust from aluminum furniture. Most rust can be sanded off the furniture with medium grit sand paper. If your furniture is extremely rusted, spray phosphoric acid on the furniture and allow it to dry, usually 20 to 30 minutes. Go over the furniture with a steel bristled brush to remove the remaining rust. Rinse the furniture with water to remove the acid and the dust from sanding.

4. Spray on primer in a back and forth motion. Slightly overlap each stroke for full coverage. Use two coats of primer, allowing each to dry completely.

5. Paint using a spray paint formulated for metal. Krylon and Rustoleum make products for this application in a number of colors. Spray paint is available in both satin and gloss finishes. Allow paint to dry for 24 hours.

Tags: furniture with, aluminum furniture, aluminum patio, aluminum patio furniture, furniture allow, patio furniture, sand paper

Rustic Pine Decor

Natural rugs, wrought iron and bare or lightly finished pine provide updated rustic decor.

Rustic pine decor offers a range of style options. In interior decorating, "rustic" often refers to designs inspired by old-fashioned hunting lodges, complete with wildlife themes, furniture made from logs with the tree bark still on them and animal heads displayed on the wall. More subtle versions of rustic decorating offer a blend of contemporary elements. such as your favorite high-tech accessories, with unfinished pine furniture and farmhouse or country accessories that evoke a simpler way of life. Does this Spark an idea?

Rustic Pine Styles

Choosing a theme for your rustic pine decor will give your home a harmonious mood and style. Classic rustic lodge decor offers a masculine effect and may include homemade accessories, solid fabrics and details based on a specific animal, such as a bear, deer or moose. Wall art, statues and accessories such as a hand-carved bear umbrella stand bring the theme together. In rustic pine decor featuring old-fashioned fabrics, such as gingham and small floral prints, and old-fashioned accessories, such as wooden bowls, ironstone crocks and butter churns, simple pine furniture creates a country cottage decorating scheme.

Rustic Pine Color Schemes

Rustic pine decorating works well with many color schemes. Pairing neutral area rugs in natural materials, such as jute or cotton, with bare pine and worn leather furniture creates a relaxed mood. Adding simple window treatments and natural-fiber accessories, such as a hand-woven blanket as a throw on the sofa, wall art in handmade pine frames and a wooden bowl full of pine cones on side table fits with a muted color scheme. Deep colors, such as brown, rust, burgundy and forest green, work well with this look. Neutral colors, including black, cream, tan and taupe, as well as verdigris, the green of aged copper, also complement rustic pine decor.

Rustic Pine Furniture

Rustic pine furniture ranges from roughly-made antiques to inexpensive bare wood pieces and reproductions of old-fashioned pine furniture with the bark left on. Kitchen tables made of pine planks and with turned legs will create a farmhouse effect; weathered pine or lightly finished knotty pine also fit with rustic decorating schemes. Pine straight-backed chairs, stools, hall tables, benches, coat racks, side tables, dining sets, kids furniture and simple pine beds all suit rustic pine decor. Selecting bare wood or lightly finished pine instead of varnished or painted pieces also fit with a natural look.

Rustic Pine Decorating Ideas

Old bare pine furniture works with rustic pine decor.

Installing a pine shelf with cast iron hooks in the entry way introduces a rustic look. Pairing a low pine coffee table with a distressed leather couch and a bare pine entertainment cabinet that conceals the TV and sound system gives the living room a timeless look. Cast iron sconces for candles or oil-burning lamps sets off the natural pine and offers convenience during power outages. Plain muslin, canvas or corduroy window treatments continue the simplicity theme. A pine bed with a plain headboard or turned bed posts pairs well with handwoven blankets or a homemade quilt for a rustic pine bedroom.

Tags: pine decor, rustic pine decor, accessories such, bare pine, lightly finished

Evenly Space Spindles On Decks

Because building codes for decks dictate a maximum size gap between spindles, builders must calculate the spacing of spindles precisely. Maximum gap size codes, designed to prevent children from getting their heads stuck between spindles, also dictate the number of spindles to be used in a length of deck rail. The challenge begins because the width of the spindles must be considered in the spacing. Using a mathematical formula will help streamline the process of spacing spindles evenly while adhering to building codes, according to Jon Blakemore of Rappahannock Building & Remodeling in Fredericksburg, Va. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Number of Spindles

1. Measure the length of the deck rail between posts.

2. Subtract the maximum gap size code from the length, and divide the length of the rail by this number.

3. Round the quotient up to the nearest whole number. This number is how many spindles you will need to conform to the building code. For example, if the rail is 104 inches long, the gap space code is 4 inches, and the spindle width is 1.5 inches, the formula would be (104 - 4) / (4 + 1.5) = 18.18. Round up to 19; you will need 19 spindles.

Spacing Spindles

4. Calculate the space the spindles will occupy by multiplying the spindle width by the number of spindles. Subtract this answer from the rail length to get the amount of gap space. In this example, the formula would be 19 x 1.5 = 28.5; 100 - 28.5 = 71.5.

5. Calculate the spacing between spindles by dividing the amount of gap space by the number of spindles. For example, 71.5 / 19 = 3.76.

6. Starting at the end post of the rail, measure the gap space and attach the first spindle there. Measure the same distance from the first spindle for the placement of the second spindle. Repeat this process until all the spindles are installed.

Tags: between spindles, amount space, building codes, deck rail, first spindle

Make An Iron Driveway Gate

An ornate custom-made wrought iron gate.

Wrought iron is a classic metal. It is almost pure iron, with a very low carbon content and glasseous slag which forms linear fibers in the iron to give it texture. Wrought iron is tough, seldom breaks, can be easily bent or welded and resists corrosion. That makes it ideal for fences, gates and decorative elements around a house. It can be bought from many suppliers, in round, square or rectangular shapes. Most suppliers also stock decorative components, like spear-shaped post tops (called fleur-de-lis spikes) and preformed circles, triangles or other decorative scrollwork. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the driveway where the gate will go and make sure both sides have appropriate gate posts, then draw a design to fit. Driveways can have a single gate across the entire span, or double gates that fasten in the center. They can be made with hinges and latches or an electric opener which slides the gate in and out. Gates are built on a basic rectangle of larger iron with slats, braces and decorative elements welded inside. Start your design by sizing the frame, but locate all other components, with measurements of gaps between posts and spacing of scrollwork.

2. Lay out the frame and internal elements on a work surface. Use a metal saw to cut bars to size. Decide whether internal spindles will weld to the frame or go through it. Drill properly spaced holes if necessary to fit spindles through top and bottom frame rails. Use a carpenter's square to make sure corners are square. If making a double gate, build two frames.

3. Weld the frame; miter corners at 45-degree angles with a metal saw and make sure they are square before welding. Lay in internal elements and weld them to the frame. Some elaborate elements, incorporating circles and other scrollwork, should be assembled separately and welded to the frame as a unit. Buy hinges from a supplier and weld them to the gate, then weld or screw to the side posts, depending on what the posts are made of. Add a latch or install an electric opener.

Tags: make sure, decorative elements, electric opener, internal elements, iron with

Hang Metal Planter Stands

Metal planter stand

Hanging metal planter stands, also referred to as hanging plant hooks, add color and greenery to the wall of a porch or sun room. Although hanging plants can be heavy, particularly when they have been watered recently, a properly installed metal planter stand will be able to support even a large hanging plant basket. With the right preparation, you can securely hang a metal planter stand on nearly any type of wall. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Hang on a Solid Wall

1. Position the metal planter stand at the desired height on your wall. Mark the hanging points through the mounting plate with a pencil. Before installing the stand, check that the area will receive plenty of light. Avoid installing a hanging plant directly over furniture, as debris from the plant will occasionally fall from the basket.

2. Hang a metal planter stand on a solid wall -- such as masonry, brick, or concrete -- by pre-drilling the hanging points with a masonry bit. Select a bit size just slightly smaller than the diameter of your expansion anchors.

3. Tap the expansion anchors into place in the pre-drilled holes with a hammer. Check that the lip of each anchor is flush with the wall.

4. Align the hanging planter stand with the anchors, and screw the stand into the anchors.

Hang on a Hollow Wall

5. Hang a metal planter stand on a hollow wall (such as drywall) by pre-drilling the hanging points with a large bit. Drill holes large enough to accommodate the collapsed toggle on a toggle bolt.

6. Insert the toggle bolts into the mounting plate of the planter stand, and thread a toggle onto the end of each bolt. The tips of the collapsed toggle should point toward the head of the bolt.

7. Align the toggle bolts with the pre-drilled holes, and insert each bolt into its corresponding hole until the toggle opens up inside of the wall. Tighten each bolt while pulling the bolt outward to maintain pressure on the opened toggle.

Tags: planter stand, metal planter, metal planter stand, each bolt, hanging plant, hanging points, collapsed toggle

Decorate A Fourposter Bed With Draping Fabric

If you own a four-poster bed, you may want to decorate it to add a romantic touch to your bedroom's overall atmosphere. Dress up your four-poster bed by draping fabric along the upper posts. This will make your four-poster bed the center of attention in your room. Many types of fabric will work well on a four-poster bed. The most popular types for draping beds are sheer, lightweight fabrics. However, you may prefer the look of a more solid weave. The two primary types of fabric are knits and weaves. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Purchase four times the length of the distance between each of the posts on your bed. This will allow enough fabric for deep drapes and creative twists. At the same time, purchase matching ribbons, lace and other embellishments to dress up your draping.

2. Try out various draping techniques with your fabric before cutting or stitching. A simple, yet elegant, look is to loosely tie the fabric to each bed post, allowing equal drape between each one. You can also cross the fabric to opposite corner posts to create a distinctive appearance.

3. Cut your fabric if you desire less length between each post. Hem your fabric along the raw edges. Trim all loose threads and hang along the posts. Attach your selected embellishments after hanging. Tie ribbon around the fabric on each post to accentuate the four corners and hold the fabric in place.

Tags: between each, each post, your fabric, fabric along, fabric each

Repaint Rusted Wroughtiron Fencing

Wrought-iron fences offer protection and a decorative element to a home. But being made of iron, the fence is susceptible to rust. The rustproof coating on the wrought iron eventually wears off, leaving the fence prone to corrosion. When elements such as sunlight, water and moisture combine with the underlying metal, rust forms and keeps spreading. To prevent rust holes, it is important to remove the rust as soon as it appears and to repaint those areas. This is not difficult. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Scrub off the surface rust with a wire brush.

2. Apply a rust remover to the remaining rust with a steel-wool pad. Allow the remover to remain on the wrought iron for around 10 to 15 minutes. Scrub off the rust with the steel wool. Wipe the area clean with a damp paper towel.

3. Apply a rustproof or rust-inhibiting primer for metals to the rusted areas of the fence.

4. Apply direct-to-metal paint to the wrought iron with a brush. Allow to dry. DTM paints dry to a hard finish.

Tags: rust with, wrought iron

Repaint Patio Furniture

Patio furniture, or garden furniture, as it is also known, usually consists of a table with four to six chairs, an umbrella and a chaise lounge. These pieces can represent a significant investment in the outdoor look of your home. As patio furniture sits outside exposed to the elements, the painted finish may begin to peel, crack, fade or chip away. When you repaint your patio furniture, you will ensure these furniture items enhance your garden for years to come. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Preparation

1. Before you begin your repainting project, cover the area where you will be working with a drop cloth or newspapers to prevent damage from spills. Wear a painter's mask and safety goggles to prevent exposure to your lungs or eyes during the following steps.

2. Mix 1 tbsp. of dish detergent in a bucket of warm water. Use a rag to wipe the surfaces of your patio furniture, allowing the surface to dry before moving on to the next step.

3. Use a small magnet to test the metal for rust. If the magnet will not stick to the metal, there is likely quite a bit of rust damage. You may still repaint this area, but you must be careful not to dent or crush it while cleaning and repainting the rest of the furniture.

If you find areas that can easily be repaired and still carry a magnetic charge, scrub the area lightly with a rust remover chemical or sandpaper before moving on to the next step.

4. Use steel wool to scrub the remaining paint off the metal of the furniture. Give special attention to creases and joints in the metal.

Painting

5. Apply the primer. Pick a primer with rust inhibitor to help prevent additional rust damage. Follow the directions on the spray can to apply the primer correctly. Allow the primer coat to dry for several hours before moving on to the next step.

6. Apply the final exterior paint coat to your furniture. Check your furniture for runs by using the sponge brush to brush away drips before they dry into permanent blemishes. Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours.

7. If you choose, you may paint the furniture with a clear gloss coat. This step is optional.

Tags: before moving, before moving next, moving next, moving next step, next step, patio furniture

Raise A Wrought Iron Fence

A wrought iron fence has strength and style.

The beauty of a wrought iron fence surrounding your yard attracts visitors and comments from family and friends. The dark metal components and strong, open frame of the fence add elegance, stand up to abuse and protect children playing in the yard. Raising the fence yourself, rather than paying an expensive contractor ,will require careful planning and thorough measuring. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose where the wrought iron fence will stand. Place marker flags into the ground at the beginning of the new fence area and at the end.

2. Measure three feet from the first marker flag using a yard stick. Place a marker flag into the ground at this spot. Tie a bright-colored string connecting the two marker flags.

3. Place marker flags along the area where the fence is going at 3-foot intervals. Tie bright-colored strings between each marker flag.

4. Dig a 2-foot-deep hole, 6 inches in diameter, in the ground at each marker flag, using a post hole digger.

5. Mix cement in a 5-gallon bucket.

6. Insert a wrought iron fence post, included in the fence package, into each hole. Fill the hole around the post with the mixed cement until the cement is level with the ground. Allow the cement to set for two days.

7. Set a 3-foot-long wrought iron fence section between the first two posts. Use the screws included in the fence package to attach the section to the posts, using a cordless drill. The posts will have three holes for the screws 1/2 inch apart, so adjust the height to your needs.

8. Insert a wrought iron fence section between each set of posts. Install the gate, included in the wrought iron fence package purchased, in a place that is most convenient for you.

Tags: iron fence, marker flag, wrought iron, wrought iron fence, fence package

Interesting Monuments Or Landmarks In Louisiana

One of New Orleans' "cities of the dead."

Louisiana boasts a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy, from a vibrant art and culture scene to its culinary delights and an array of outdoor activities available in many state parks. The state also boasts some fine landmarks and monuments, serving as testimony to its rich and varied history.

Gallier House, New Orleans

Located in the French Quarter and designed by the Gallier brothers -- among the most esteemed architects of the mid-19th century -- Gallier House is a wonderful reminder of New Orleans' architectural heyday. The house features a balcony overlooking Royal Street incorporating three wrought iron arches, some of the finest examples of ornate iron latticework in a city renowned for it. The restored interiors boast exquisite Victorian furnishings and many portraits of the Gallier family themselves. The bathroom features hot and cold running water, a rare luxury included in the original design of 1857.

Old State Capitol, Baton Rouge

The Old State Capitol is a 160-year old state house and a Gothic architectural treasure that overlooks the Mississippi in downtown Baton Rouge. It was designed by James Harrison Dakin who described it as "castellated gothic" and it was the seat of Louisiana government until 1862. A fire shortly after destroyed much of the interior which was then restored in 1882 by William A. Freret, who installed its now signature grand staircase. It was abandoned again in 1932 when the government officially moved to a new building and by 1991 it was facing demolition. However, it was saved by a group of concerned citizens and politicians who began another program of restoration.

Old Ursuline Convent, New Orleans

The Old Ursuline Convent in New Orleans is the only surviving French Colonial building in the United States. It dates from 1752 and was founded by the Ursulines, an order of religious women who came to New Orleans and established schools and orphanages. It was occupied by the Ursulines for 90 years but today is used by the Archdiocese of New Orleans as an archive, housing documents that date back to 1718.

Lafayette Cemetery, New Orleans

Located in the historic Garden District, Lafayette Cemetery was opened in 1833 making it one of the oldest in New Orleans. It was the city's first planned cemetery, with intersecting avenues designed for accommodating funeral processions, and includes a variety of different tomb styles. Over 30 above-ground cemeteries were built in New Orleans following its construction, referred to as "cities of the dead." It is popular with visitors for its architecture and atmosphere as well as the references made to it by Anne Rice in her novels such as "Interview with the Vampire."

Tags: Baton Rouge, cities dead, Convent Orleans, Gallier House, Lafayette Cemetery

Repaint Iron Furniture

Refinish your iron furniture with a high-quality metal primer and metal paint to keep it looking like new.

The effects of Mother Nature can damage the finish of iron furniture. Fortunately, refinishing iron furniture is a relatively simple and inexpensive project that you can do in one afternoon by investing a little time and elbow grease. So roll up your sleeves and bring your iron furniture back to life! Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Spread out the drop cloth and place the furniture on the cloth.

2. Brush loose pieces of finish off the piece of furniture with the wire brush.

3. Sand the furniture to remove any loose finish not removed by the wire brush. Pay particular attention to sand off any rust. A clean and smooth surface is important to primer and paint adhesion.

4. Rinse the furniture down with water. Allow the furniture to dry completely.

5. Apply a top coat of the metal primer and allow the primer to dry according to directions. Some metal primers call for a light sanding in between coats so be sure to read directions.

6. Apply a second coat of metal primer. Be sure to completely cover the entire piece of furniture with primer. Allow to dry according to directions.

7. Apply a top coat of metal paint. Allow to dry according to directions.

8. Apply a second top coat of metal paint. Allow to dry completely before using furniture.

Tags: coat metal, iron furniture, according directions, directions Apply, furniture with, metal paint

Decorate A Santa Festyle Home

Use potted cactus to complement your Santa Fe decor.

Featuring adobe-style houses, terra-cotta or tin roofs and wrought-iron accents, Southwestern-style architecture goes hand in hand with the Santa Fe-style of interior design. The neutral colors of the desert are accented with bright, vibrant colors and desert-themed accents and accessories. Santa Fe décor is a casual style of design best suited for those with a casual lifestyle. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose vibrant colors, which are popular in Santa Fe and Southwestern decor. Use a combination of reds, oranges, yellows, sage green, turquoise, cobalt blue and the trademark Taos blue, a mixture of sky blue and a touch of violet. Pair them with neutral browns, grays or beiges as a backdrop to the vibrant colors.

2. Cover the floors with Navajo rugs in geometric patterns or stripes. Handwoven blankets can be hung on the wall as art. Also feature photos or paintings of desert landscapes or cactus. Paintings or posters featuring Native American artwork can also be used to evoke a Santa Fe-style décor.

3. Feature a Kiva ladder to evoke the feeling of a pueblo house. Place a few Southwestern-style accessories on it and a large tribal drum next to it. Use wrought-iron accessories and architectural details, such as sculptures, knickknacks, railings or window grates. Prominently display Native American crafts and other items, such as baskets, pottery, blankets, rugs, dream catchers and Kachina dolls. Bleached bones and skulls collected from the desert are often hung on the walls or stacked as accent pieces.

4. Install a corner adobe beehive fireplace, which is the trademark architectural feature of Santa Fe -- and all Southwestern interior design. Surround the fireplace with large, substantial furnishings made of wood with a rough finish and leather upholstery fabric. Any style of antique furniture mixes well with Santa Fe design, mirroring the mismatched pieces brought west by the pioneers.

Tags: vibrant colors, interior design, Native American, Santa Fe-style, Santa Southwestern, with Santa

Southwest Decor Ideas

Southwest decor is defined by its bold and earthy colors and its use of wrought iron, rough ceiling beams and stone flooring. Accessories will define and pull together decor. Be selective in your accessories and aim for a sophisticated and uncluttered, warm and inviting Southwest look. Does this Spark an idea?

Colors

Southwest decor uses a range of color, from beautiful blues and turquoise to hot reds, bright yellows and oranges. All of these colors are derivatives of the land that makes up the Southwest. The reds and terra-cotta represent the colors of the soil; the turquoise and intense blues remind of the Southwestern skies; the oranges "speak" of the sunsets. The desert brings forth the browns and beiges, which also are part of the Southwest color scheme.

Walls and Flooring

Consider painting your walls antique white or pale yellow to create a backdrop for wrought-iron sconces, greenery and rough-hewn framed artwork. A faux stucco look will create an original Southwest look.

Stone, terra-cotta tile or wood flooring will give that hacienda look and feel to your home. Place attractive and colorful throw rugs in high-traffic areas (entranceways and hallways) to keep maintenance to a minimum.

Accessories

Wrought-iron chandeliers and wall sconces are characteristic of this style of decor, as are Native American arts and crafts, such as pottery, carvings, baskets and rugs. Look for replicas or find original pieces of Native American art. A bright pottery bowl filled with fruit, a large basket to hold magazines or a hand-woven rug at your entryway will give that Southwestern flair.

A carved or cast statue of a horse or buffalo placed on an end table or coffee table brings back the days of the old Southwest, when the buffalo ran wild. Tin boxes and tin picture frames as well as religious pieces such as santos and retablos also are found in Southwestern decor. You can bring in the outdoors by tucking a tall plant in the corner of a room. Use bright bold colors in pillows and throws to complete the look.

Tags: give that, Native American, Southwest decor, Southwest look, will give, will give that