Clean Wrought Iron Railings

Wrought iron gate

Wrought iron patio furniture, gates, chandeliers, railings and other decorative pieces can make a space look grand and elegant. Luckily it is easy to clean, which you must do to inhibit the formation of rust spots. Wrought iron left outside will develop rust more easily than items kept indoors. In fact, you may not be able to remove older rust but may have to paint over it. That's also easy. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Cleaning Outdoor Wrought Iron

1. Remove cushions if there are any, and clear the area of items you don't want to get wet.

2. Move a garden hose near the wrought iron you wish to clean, or move the wrought near a garden hose. If neither is an option, fill a second bucket with plain water to use for rinsing.

3. Fill a large bucket with water and add three squirts of mild dish soap like Ivory or Dawn. Do not use the kind with bleach or antibacterial ingredients. Mix the soap into the water with your hands until suds form.

4. Dip a rag, sponge or soft scrub brush into the bucket of sudsy water and wipe down your wrought iron. You don't need to wring out the sponge or rag--just let the soapy water drip onto the ground as you scrub.

5. When the piece of wrought iron (or a section of a larger piece) is cleaned to your liking, rinse the soapy water away with a garden hose. Don't use the strongest setting on a spray attachment, which could damage the wrought iron. If a hose is unavailable, dump a second bucket of clean water over the soapy wrought iron to rinse it.

6. Let the cleaned and rinsed wrought iron air-dry.

7. Cover rust by wiping it with sandpaper of the type and grade recommended for your wrought iron (ask a professional at a hardware store if unsure); then, clean the area following the steps above, let it dry and use touch-up paint recommended by the manufacturer of your wrought iron (or suggested by, again, a professional at a hardware store).

Cleaning Indoor Wrought Iron

8. Mix water and a mild dish soap in a small bucket until sudsy.

9. Dip a clean rag into the solution and wring it out.

10. Wipe down the indoor wrought iron item with the sudsy rag, making sure you get all the nooks and crannies. Consider using a soft-bristle toothbrush for those hard-to-reach bits.

11. Wet a second rag with water and use that to wipe the wrought iron of the soapy water. Then let the cleaned and rinsed wrought iron item air-dry.

12. Cover rust by wiping it with sandpaper of the type and grade recommended for your wrought iron (ask a professional at a hardware store if unsure); then clean the area following the steps above, let it dry and use touch-up paint recommended by the manufacturer of your wrought iron (or suggested by, again, a professional at a hardware store).

Tags: your wrought iron, wrought iron, your wrought, hardware store, professional hardware, professional hardware store, garden hose

Build A Welldesigned Patio Cover

build a well-designed patio cover

If you have a patio where hot sun can make using the patio uncomfortable, you will want to build a patio cover. There are many ways to create shade over a patio. Here are some ideas you can use to build a patio cover that will both cool your space outdoors and make your landscape look great. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Wooden or vinyl patio covers

Patios can be built with wood or vinyl. Natural wood has a beauty that cannot be replicated, yet vinyl is easy to care for since it needs no painting and will not rot. Designs are usually constructed with basic posts and slatted roofs, but variations can include columns or other ornamental supports and roofs that can be made in different designs, covered with lattice or even enclosed with solid materials like tile, shingles or tin.

2. Patio covers can be built with fabric.

You can find retractable shade covers that roll back against the house, permanent fabric covers that allow light to filter through, or shade covers made of artistically draped fabrics.

3. Unusual materials can be used to build a patio cover.

Creatively designed patio covers can be constructed of any material you want. Copper pipes, wrought iron, supports of stone, brick or cement are all possible construction materials. Covers can be soft or hard. Styles can be rustic - built with rough-hewn or recycled wood, or tropical - made with bamboo and woven fabrics, or contemporary - constructed with glass, plastic and metal. Make sure whatever style you build blends well with the style of your home and garden. Structural integrity is vital. If you live where strong winds are possible, build with wind resistance in mind.

4. The way you build your shade cover will depend on the materials you use as well as the form and design. Decide if your shade cover will be attached to the house or free-standing. Once again, sketch out your ideas and how your shade cover will fit into the landscape. Research how the structure is built to make sure it will be safe and sound as well as functional and attractive. And call in help if you want more building or artistic ideas and advice. The designs and ways to build a patio cover are limited only by your imagination!

Tags: patio cover, build patio, build patio cover, built with, cover will, shade cover

Make A Fence Out Of Corrugated Cardboard

Make a Fence Out of Corrugated Cardboard

When you think about fences, most likely the image of a whitewashed, wooden picket fence or a wrought-iron gate comes to mind. You can use another sturdy material to make a fence--cardboard. It is true that cardboard is by no means waterproof or strong enough to be used in an outdoor fence. But if you have a school play or an indoor display planned and you need a quick fence, don't shell out cash for wood. Cardboard is cheap, easy to work with and biodegradable.

Instructions

1. Lay down the painter's tarp in your large work area. Cut the boxes along their edges and separate the pieces. Stack them into a pile. The number of boxes you will need depends on how long you want your fence to be. The top and bottom pieces and very short sections can be discarded (or recycled).

2. On one long piece of cardboard, draw a 6-foot long, 6-inch wide rectangle. On top of that rectangle, draw a 6-inch wide, 6-inch tall equilateral triangle. The shape should now look like a large fence post. Decide how long you want your fence to be and how many fence posts you want to make. You will need two fence posts for every foot of length in your fence.

3. Cut out the first fence post that you drew. Use that post as a stencil and trace the remaining number of posts you desire on the rest of the cardboard pieces. Cut out and stack the remaining fence posts into a pile.

4. Cut out two 6-inch wide strips from the remaining pieces of cardboard the length of the entire fence. If you do not have any pieces long enough for you to cut out strips of that length, cut out four strips that are each half of the intended length of the fence.

5. Lay the strips that you just cut down on the tarp. The strips should be laid out horizontally and should separated by about 4 feet. If you had to cut four strips then place two strips end to end and place the other two under those end to end. Carefully glue the fence posts on top of these strips, one next to the other, until you have filled the fence with posts. Allow the structure to dry.

Tags: fence posts, 6-inch wide, strips that, your fence, Corrugated Cardboard, Fence Corrugated

Design A Front Entrance

Planning for a small table beside the door is a good idea for most front entrances.

A home's front entrance should impress visitors and add curbside appeal. Even a small home looks elegant and inviting if attention is paid to the front entry space. A porch, windows, doors and landscaping all play a part. However, the entrance should tie all the house architecture together neatly. In other words, the front entrance should be the focal point. Every entrance should have special touches and look inviting to visitors. Time invested in planning this space should add to the home's market value. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Investigate front entrances by driving around many neighborhoods. Collect ideas from books, remodeling magazines and landscape design books, too. Make notes about special front doors, glass panels beside the front doors, plants at front entrances and porches that stand out. Envision which ideas could work for your home.

2. Create a double-door entrance with a porch, if possible. Two front doors make a bold statement and tend to look very elegant. Double doors open to provide more space for furniture deliveries, too. Add glass panels alongside the front door space to bring natural light into the interior. Consider building a porch over the entrance to emphasize the architectural style of the house. Use open beams or cedar shakes on the porch to give the home a high-quality look.

3. Use high-quality building materials and furniture. Add a layer of stone over a concrete porch, for example. Install nice light fixtures overhead on the porch or lanterns beside the door space. Purchase an exterior wrought-iron table to hold packages right beside the front door. Include one or two chairs in a heavy design, so the wind won't move them.

4. Include plants and special touches. Incorporate a topiary plant beside the front door for an upscale look. Use a heavy concrete planter to hold the plant in place. Consider adding hanging baskets of ferns or planters of flowers along the porch perimeter. Add a brass mailbox on the porch wall, brass house numbers and a hummingbird feeder, for example. Plant climbing vines that flower in spring and summer on one end of the porch.

5. Make the yard space accessible for visitors. Build a 5-foot-wide sidewalk from the driveway to the front entrance, for example. Add porch railings to make accessing steps easier. Don't build a formal entrance that is never used, since the entrance should lead into the main living space. Consider building a circular driveway to the front entrance, if this works with the architecture of the house.

Tags: entrance should, beside front, front door, front doors, front entrance, front entrances

Repaint Wrought Iron

Wrought iron gate

Wrought iron has been in use since the middle ages and was used for weapons and building, such as bridge supports and framing. Wrought iron replaced the use of bronze for these uses. Today, the term is generally used to describe the intricate ironwork on furniture, railings, gates and wine racks. Wrought iron is prone to rust, but by using the proper products, preparation and painting methods you can preserve wrought iron to prolong its lifespan and beauty for many years.

Instructions

1. Wire brush the surfaces of wrought iron, either with a hand-held brush or a wire brush attachment for a drill. Remove all loose and flaking paint in the crevices and carvings using a scraper and/or small wire brushes.

2. Use sandpaper to smooth rough edges and clean rust where the paint has already flaked off. It is not necessary to remove all the paint if it is still adhered securely.

3. Clean all surfaces with rags and paint thinner, changing to clean rags often. Remove all dust and dirt. Allow to dry. Wipe all surfaces with a tack rag.

4. Apply a rust inhibitor to all surfaces, being sure to get it into all the crevices and carvings. Rust inhibitor bonds with the surface and prevents any rust from reappearing.

5. Apply metal primer either by spraying or brushing on. Allow to dry the amount of time suggested by the manufacturer on the product packaging.

6. Spray or brush on one to three coats of the finish paint, allowing to dry between coats.

Tags: Wrought iron, crevices carvings, surfaces with, wrought iron

Furnish Your Sunroom

A sunroom is a place to bring the outdoors in.

The purpose of a sunroom is not only to bring the outdoors in, but also to allow natural sunlight to filter through the room. Furnish your sunroom just as you would an outdoor patio. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select furniture that can withstand the constant heat and rays of the sun. Outdoor patio furniture works best because it is manufactured of materials that are capable of sustaining all weather conditions. Wrought iron, wicker or even aluminum is a great choice.

2. Add comfortable cushions and pillows to the furniture.

3. Keep the area open to invite guests to join the conversation.

Arrange the seating area so that you can have a conversation with your guests. Place a sofa against the wall with a table in front of it, and two or more chairs on the sides of the table.

4. Tile floors are easy to care for in a sunroom.

Keep the floor bare. Use tile or wood on the floor of a sunroom. It keeps the outdoor feeling and is easy to clean.

5. Paint the walls a light color to keep the room feeling bright and cheerful.

6. Window sheers still allow sunlight to filter into a room.

Add white window sheers to will give privacy when desired, and allow the natural sunlight to filter into the room.

7. Potted plants are ideal in a room that gets sun.

Bring in several potted plants to keep the outdoor feeling in your sunroom.

8. Make a place to have coffee and read the newspaper.

Place a small bistro table and two chairs in a corner of the room if space is available.

Tags: sunlight filter, allow natural, allow natural sunlight, bring outdoors, filter into

Landscaping Lawn Edge Ideas

Raised edging keeps grass from spreading.

For homeowners, a lawn is an integral piece of their landscaping, offering a smooth green expanse to enhance the house and provide a play area for young and old alike. A trick to raise any lawn from a patch of grass to a garden feature is to define its edges. Much like the right frame completes a picture, the right edging sets borders, keeps grass out of flower beds and adds contrast to your lawn. Does this Spark an idea?

Utility Edging

While some lawns are meant for walking on, playing on, trampling and using, others are intended for your to admire and appreciate them from a distance. Set the tone for how you want your lawn treated with the edging you choose. A flagstone path border is a subtle indication that the stones, not the grass, are for walking on. Or create a border with colorful mosaic tiles or solar garden lamps that light up the lawn dramatically after dark. Alternatively, a brick or metal/plastic decorative edging sunk level with the grass gives the lawn an accessible edge that is easy to mow as well as to step over to get to the picnic table, croquet field, badminton net, dog fetching or Frisbee-tossing areas.

Budget Edging

Flowers are an eye-pleasing lawn edging, either in a single line of blooms or in full, flowing beds. They can define the lawn shape and lead the eye and feet from one area to another. The biggest expense is your time spent digging up the beds, preparing the soil, planting the flowers and weeding and deadheading the spent flowers. A definite advantage is the ease of shaping. Beds are linear or curve a defining outer edge to the grass; create separate use areas by entwining beds between them. Alternatively, hedges create an edge that frames your lawn and adds height to your landscaping. Choose plants that are thick for privacy or that produce blooms for beauty and fragrance. The maintenance is minimal with cedar or requires continuous pruning with cotoneaster.

Deluxe Edging

Fences are a traditional lawn edge, and the styles are nearly endless, from rocks to split rails to wrought iron. The most expensive of edging, they can require professionals to install. Fences add a formal look and allow privacy by keeping out neighbors and others. On the other hand, fences are good for climbing plants and flowers. If there is a private area of the garden where you want to put a hot tub, picnic patio or sunning station, choose a solid fence like rock, brick or cedar planks. For more casual areas, an open fence of wood sets landscape boundaries while allowing friendly contact with others. Add metal or plastic edging to contain the grass under the fence line.

Tags: your lawn, edge that, keeps grass, metal plastic

Make A Mosaic Mirror Skirt Pedestal

Recycle your old mirrors and make mosaic mirror tiles.

Refurbishing kitchen items such as a cake plate's plain skirt pedestal is a great way to create a decorative piece on a budget. By implementing mosaic tiling techniques and incorporating mirrored tiles, a plain pedestal is transformed into an elegant centerpiece with a reflective effect. The grout color is an important component as well. Colors such as white, black and gray are often used to create a classic mirrored mosaic skirt pedestal.

Instructions

1. Choose your mirror tiles, which are available in sheets or individually cut. As an alternative, recycle a broken mirror and make it into mosaic tile by cutting it into your desired shape with tile nippers, glass cutters or a hammer. Always use extra care when breaking glass by wrapping it in old towels and placing the mirrored side facing the work table. If you mirror has sticky film backing, remove it before breaking up the glass.

2. Measure the width and height of your skirt pedestal with a ruler.

3. Position your mirror placement pattern on your table top for your skirt pedestal. Use the dimensions from step 2 as your guide. To include a specific motif within your pattern, such as a flower, draw the motif on pattern paper with your drafting pencils and place the mirrored tiles onto the drawing. This will act as a road map while attaching your tiles. You can include decorative colored tile such as vitreous glass as part of your pattern. Although this tile type is opaque, it is also often mixed with metallic powder, producing a shimmering effect which is complementary to the mirror.

4. Brush a light coat of building silicone adhesive or silicone sealant with a bristle brush onto the skirt pedestal. Make sure you are working in a well ventilated area and wear a protective mask, goggles and rubber gloves.

Read your brand's surface and drying time recommendations.

5. Apply your tiles according to your pattern. Use tweezers to handle small mirror tile pieces. Make sure the surface is not saturated with glue to avoid it from squeezing in between the tile placement and onto the surface of the tile. Wipe away any excess glue with a damp sponge.

6. Pour the dry grout into your mixing bowl to make a large enough batch for your pedestal.

7. Pour water slowly into the grout, according to your brand's instructions, and mix it with a wallpaper scraper. Continue mixing until the grout produces a creamy looking consistency. Add water as needed.

8. Apply the grout onto your skirt pedestal by smoothing over the grout directly onto the tiles. If the base has a flat surface, use a squeegee application tool and if it has a shaped or irregular base, use a rubber spatula.

9. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge. Make sure it has fully dried before using your mosaic mirrored skirt pedestal.

Tags: skirt pedestal, Make sure, your pattern, your skirt, your skirt pedestal

Restore Antique Iron Beds

Restore Antique Iron Beds

Unrestored antique iron beds aren't that easy to come by. They have been snatched up because of the charm they add to a room's decor. However, you can search at antique stores, flea markets, garage sales or on online sites like eBay. If you find one in good shape, following tried-and-true procedures will make the restoring of an antique iron bed faster and easier. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Wash the whole bed with a soapy water mixture to remove any grime. Wash a section at a time, rinsing and drying as you go. An alternate method of cleaning is to use mineral spirits.

2. Rub off any paint chips, if the bed was previously painted. If you cannot remove the paint in this manner, you may need to have it sandblasted by a professional. If you prefer the shabby chic look, leave the layers of paint, with the lose chips removed.

3. Kill the rust, if there is any on the antique iron bed. If you are going to repaint it, use a rust-killing primer as the first coat. It will be a phosphoric acid mixture that will stop the rust, which can damage the iron.

4. Remove rust from your antique iron bed when you will not be painting it as well. There are several substances and methods for removing rust. Spray WD-40 on the rusted area, and then use a wire brush to scrape the rust off. Navel jelly has also been used successfully. Just smear it on the affected areas, and wipe with a clean cloth. If the rust is extreme, have the bed sandblasted by a professional.

5. Paint your antique iron bed in your chosen color. White or black are the most common colors used. Spray painting will give the most even surface coverage. Use any paint specifically manufactured for metal. Follow all package instructions.

6. Leave the iron bed in a natural condition. To do this, you should still apply a clear acrylic urethane topcoat to your antique iron bed. This will seal the surface and keep it protected from any future rust erosion.

Tags: your antique, your antique iron, antique iron, antique iron, antique iron, Antique Iron Beds

Attach A Trellis To The Top Of A Fence

Adding trellis to the top of the fence makes the structure more appealing.

Fences are important borders for yards and gardens. They can protect tender plants and provide security for your property. Most people assume that when you they select security fencing for their yard they are going to have to install a solid wall of wood, plastic, or metal.

Adding a trellis on the top of a wooden fence can create an interesting architectural element that provides security but maintains ascetic desirability. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Plan for the trellis as the fence is installed. The use of longer fence posts from the start allows the trellis to be nailed directly onto the post and is by far the best option.

2. Modify the existing post with wood battens. There are two methods of extending fence posts to attach a trellis to an existing fence the first is by joining an extra length of post to each existing post with wooden battens. Secure sturdy battens to join the extra length of post to the existing one, overlapping each. Then attach the trellis to the extra post using galvanized nails.

3. Mount the trellis to the extended post. The second method of extending the fence post is to add install new wood or use metal post extensions - metal fixtures that slot over the top of the existing post - into which you slide the additional post. Remove the post cap and fit the post extension Insert the extra length of wooden fence post and replace the post cap. Nail on the trellis.

4. Cap the post. For both methods yours are likely to want to add metal caps to the post after adding the trellis

5. Frame the top of the trellis. Finish the trellis by adding a strip of wood framing along the top of the fence and trellis and if possible the bottom.

6. Stain or paint the trellis to match the fence. If the trellis is not already made of treated wood this step is critical otherwise it is more of a ascetic choice.

7. Plant a climber and train it. A vigorous climber should cover ugly joins after a season or two. Simple plant the climber and use string to guide it up to the trellis.

Tags: existing post, extra length, existing post with, extending fence, extra length post

Resell Longaberger Baskets

Longaberger basket ready for resale.

Have you thought of trying to resell Longaberger baskets? Maybe you have a collection of these hand-woven baskets that you no longer want or you've seen them for sale at garage sales and wondered if you could resell the secondhand baskets.

There is a demand for Longaberger baskets made in Dresden, Ohio. Some collectors search for retired baskets (those that are no longer being made) and for baskets that are missing from their collections at a discounted price.

Instructions

1. Become familiar with Longaberger baskets

Before trying to resell Longaberger baskets, get to know the products. Longaberger also makes pottery, basket liners, wrought iron pieces, and more so keep an eye out for these items to resell as well.

Each Longaberger basket is stamped (Longaberger Baskets, Handwoven, Dresden, Ohio USA) and "signed" by the person (their initials) who made the basket. Like anything, the rarer the Longaberger basket, the higher you can resell it for.

The Bentley Collection Guide goes into detail on the value of Longaberger baskets. See the Resources section below for a direct link to the Bentley website.

2. Sell Longaberger Baskets on eBay

One option when considering selling secondhand Longaberger baskets is to resell them on eBay. A recent search on eBay auctions for the search term 'Longaberger basket' displayed more than 200 Longaberger items for sale.

Sign up for eBay and PayPal accounts, then list your Longaberger baskets for sale. See the Resources section below for a direct link to eBay's website.

3. Sell Longaberger Baskets on Basket City, USA

Basket City, USA offers these ways to resell Longaberger baskets:

- Consignment sales where they list items on eBay

- Direct purchase of your Longaberger baskets by Basket City, USA

For a direct link to Basket City USA, see the Resources section below.

4. Sell Longaberger Baskets on Your Own Website

Set up your own website to resell Longaberger baskets. A benefit of having your own website store is that you keep all of the money raised and you have control of the sale. Using PayPal or another online merchant account makes collecting the money simple when the baskets sell.

Tags: Longaberger baskets, Basket City, Longaberger basket, direct link, Resources section

The Best Method Of Protecting Patio Furniture

When summer's over and the leaves begin to fall, it's easy to forget about outdoor furniture. Patio furniture can be a big investment, however, and one that's worth protecting. Properly cleaning, protecting, and storing your patio furniture prolongs the life of the furniture and ensures that you can enjoy your investment for many summers to come. Does this Spark an idea?

Cleaning Your Patio Furniture

You wouldn't store dirty clothes or dirty dishes, so why store dirty patio furniture? To begin protecting your patio furniture for the fall and winter start with a clean slate, literally. The best method of cleaning your patio furniture is determined by the furniture's material and construction.

Scrub plastic furniture with a mild detergent.

Clean wicker furniture with a mild detergent, using a soft brush to clean in between crevices.

Clean wrought Iron, aluminum and metal furniture with a mild detergent applied with a soft cloth.

Clean wood furniture, such as teak or cedar, with a mild detergent applied with a soft brush.

Clean patio furniture cushions by mixing a cleaning solution of 1 tsp. dishwashing detergent and 1 tsp. borax in 1 qt. warm water, and put in a spray bottle. Saturate the cushions with the cleaning solution on both sides, taking care to soak crevices. Scrub any stains with a soft brush or plastic dish scrubber, and allow the dishwashing liquid/borax solution to set for 15 minutes before spraying the cushions with a garden hose turned on high. Stand the cushions on edge, or hang to dry.

Clean canvas furniture or accessorie by rubbing with a soft brush or plastic dish scrubber over a bar of laundry soap.

For each of these cleaning methods, use a hose to rinse the furniture after cleaning to remove all the dirt and soap.

Protecting Your Patio Furniture

Before storing your patio furniture, take care to protect it from the damaging effects of extreme temperatures, wet conditions, and other factors. Some patio furniture needs special attention to protect it from the elements or simply from the effects of storage. Before storing wicker for the winter, check for weak spots or spots where the paint or clear coat has worn off, and touch up accordingly.

Sand off rusty spots on wrought iron or metal patio furniture, and touch up the paint with a rust-deterring paint.

To prepare unfinished wood furniture for storage, first clean, then apply the appropriate protectant and/or sealant for the specific wood.

Storing Your Patio Furniture

The best method, hands down, to store your patio furniture is to store it indoors or in a protected area. If you must leave the furniture pieces themselves outdoors, use furniture covers to protect them from moisture, and store them in an area that is at least somewhat protected from the sun and extremes in temperatures. Remember to always store patio cushions indoors or in bins that will keep them dry.

Tags: mild detergent, soft brush, with mild, with mild detergent, with soft, your patio furniture

Install Jtrim On Steel Buildings

The edges of metal siding installed on pole barns and metal sided buildings are covered by J-trim.

J-trim installs on steel-sided buildings, such as pole barns and commercial buildings, as the finish trim to steel siding. Similar to J-channel used with vinyl siding, J-trim is nailed to the building's framing at the top edge, and along any interior corner seams to hide the raw edges of the siding. When complete, the J-trim neatly finishes off the siding, covering any cut, raw or sharp edges to prevent damage from water penetration. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Attach the J-trim along the line that will form the upper edge of the metal siding. The metal siding will slide into the J-trim, so install the channel with the opening of the "J" facing the direction of the siding. Install the trim by nail the longer side of the "J" to the framing lumber with the washer head metal siding nails.

2. Nail the J-trim horizontally along both sides of any interior corners. At an interior corner, the siding will slide into the trim to hide the rough cut edge.

3. Nail the J-trim to the outer and inner edge of the soffit area. The pieces of metal soffit will lay into the J-trim, and cover the open area of the soffit. Nail the J-trim so that the open areas of the "J" point toward one another.

4. Slide a piece of trim, which is then installed under or lower than another piece into the piece which is above it. The upper trim must cover the joint so that water can't drip down into, and behind the trim.

5. Install any joints in the trim so that the pieces of trim overlap one another by 1/2 inch. Lower pieces should slide into the upper pieces, and horizontal runs should also overlap so that no water can penetrate the molding.

6. After the J-trim is installed, the metal siding is installed as described above, hiding all but the bottom edge inside J-trim and outside corner molding around the building's perimeter.

Tags: metal siding, Nail J-trim, slide into, interior corner, into J-trim

Hotels Near Vaughan Ontario

Visit Canada's Wonderland amusement park on your next trip to Vaughan.

Located about 17 miles northwest of Toronto, Ontario, the city of Vaughan offers entertainment for your whole family, including the Nascar Speedpark, Vaughan Mills Mall, Reptilia Zoo, Canada's Wonderland amusement park and Vegas in Vaughan. Enjoy dining at local restaurants featuring American, Italian, Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine. Vaughan also offers several hotels in and around the city catering to your family and business needs.

Monte Carlo Inns Toronto Vaughan Suites

During your next visit to Vaughan, stay at the Monte Carlo Inn in one of 130 suites. Ideal for your business trips, each suite provides two queen-size beds, work stations with ergonomic chairs, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, a complimentary buffet breakfast, free Wi-Fi, cable television, safe deposit box, free local telephone calls, iron and ironing board, hair dryers and Jacuzzis. You can also enjoy access to the Business Center and fitness room.

Monte Carlo Inns Toronto Vaughan Suites

705 Applewood Crescent

Vaughan, ON L4K 5W8

Canada

(905) 761-7170

montecarloinns.com

Novotel Toronto Vaughan Centre

Only 17 minutes from Pearson International Airport, stay at the 149-room Hotel Novetel Toronto Vaughan Centre. As of July 2010, you can make reservations for the Superior room, Executive room or a suite. The Superior room sleeps up to two adults and two children and comes with a king-size bed or two queen-size beds, sofa bed, bath and shower, free Wi-Fi, a large work area, 32-inch LCD television, coffee and tea. The Executive room includes features from the Superior room plus a full buffet breakfast, bottled water, an iPod docking station, bathrobe and slippers. Each large suite sleeps up to two adults and two children and provides one bedroom with a king-size bed, a living room with a sofa bed and two bathrooms. The suites also contain the same features of the Executive room. Extra features in each room include a safe deposit box, hair dryers and paying television video games.

Enjoy the Trio Restaurant featuring international cuisine and the Trio Lounge, both open 24 hours, seven days a week. For business, the Novetel Toronto Vaughan Centre provides five meeting rooms with business coordinators on-site to help you set up your meetings.

Novotel Toronto Vaughan Centre

200 Bass Pro Mills Drive

Vaughan, ON L4K 0B9

Canada

(905) 761-5879

novotel.com

Extended Stay Deluxe Vaughan

If you need to stay for longer periods of time for business, a vacation, job relocation or temporary housing, get a budget studio suite at the Extended Stay Deluxe Hotel. Each room comes with a separate living room, bedroom and kitchen fully equipped with cookware, utensils, a microwave, stove top and refrigerator. Every room also comes with Wi-Fi with a one-time fee, housekeeping and laundry service, unlimited telephone service, a whirlpool tub and a fitness center on-site. Choose from daily, weekly and monthly rates for your convenience.

Extended Stay Deluxe Vaughan

3600 Steeles Ave. W.

Vaughan, ON L4L 8P5

Canada

(905) 856-9600

extendedstayhotels.com

Tags: Toronto Vaughan, Toronto Vaughan Centre, Vaughan Centre, comes with, Executive room, Extended Stay, Extended Stay Deluxe

Recover A Patio Chair Cushion

Recover a Patio Chair Cushion

Recover your patio chair cushions to update the look of your outdoor living space. You can easily transform cushions with new fabric. Select fabric rated for outdoor use so your recovered cushions will last longer exposed to the elements. You can complete this craft project quickly even if you are not a sewing expert. If you can sew a straight stitch, you can recover your patio chair cushions. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the existing fabric from the chair cushions. You can leave the fabric on, and add new fabric on top, but stains and mildew may work their way through the new fabric. Your patio cushions will be fresher if you remove and discard the old fabric.

2. Measure the length, width and thickness of the chair cushions. The simplest way to get an accurate measurement for your new fabric is to place the tape measure at the bottom edge of one of the sides of the cushion, and stretch the tape completely around the cushion until it meets. Do this to measure the length and width of the cushion so that the thickness of the cushion is accounted for.

3. Cut a section of batting to fit the length and the width of the cushion. Cut a section of fabric to fit the cushion's dimensions, plus 1 inch. The extra inch is your seam allowance.

4. Fold the fabric face to face and pin it 3/4 of an inch from the edge along the two sides adjacent to the center fold. The center is the front of your cushion, and the side opposite the front is the back where you will insert the cushion foam.

5. Fold the two separate sections of the side opposite the fold back 3/4 of an inch, and pin them individually. These seams are where you will place the Velcro for your cushion opening, so the fabric needs to remain separated to keep the opening intact.

6. Iron the two individual sections for the Velcro flat so your seams will be crisp. Stitch each of the seams in place, removing the pins as you go.

7. Sew the two side seams together, removing the pins as you go. Iron the seams open so your sides will be smooth.

8. Add a strip of Velcro along the top and bottom seams at the back of your cushion. Turn the fabric inside out so that the top of the fabric is now facing out.

9. Apply spray adhesive to the cushion, and wrap the batting around it. Let the adhesive dry. Insert the cushion into the cover, and seal the Velcro.

Tags: chair cushions, length width, your cushion, Chair Cushion, cushions will, length width cushion, Patio Chair

Cup Holders To Theater Seats

Older theaters often don't have cup holders installed in the theater seats, which can inconvenience theater goers who want refreshments during a show. With just a few supplies, it is fairly easy to add cup holders to any variety of seats. The project time is minimal and the materials are inexpensive and easy to find.

Instructions

Adding Cup Holders to Theatre Seats

1. Cup holders can be installed on any type of theater seating

Examine the composition of the seat arms. In most cases, unless the arm is made of solid metal such as wrought iron, screws and nuts are preferable to use. Determine what length they should be by measuring the depth of the arm plus cup holder, adding 1/4-inch to the measurement.

If you cannot drill through the arms even with a metal bit, you will be using the glue gun.

2. For arms that can be drilled, place one of the cup holders on the right arm of the chair, and mark around the bottom. Place a small dot at the center of the drawn circle. Mark all arms with a dot that it is approximately where the holes should go.

3. Drill all holes in arm with drill bit, making sure the hole goes all the way through on each.

Drill holes through the bottom center of each cup holder.

4. Place cup holder on top of pre-drilled seat arm, and thread screw through the holes. Put on screw and tighten.

5. In case of arms which cannot be drilled, place a dot of hot glue on the center of the seat arm where you wish the cup holder to be, and firmly set cup holder into place. Let cool until solidly affixed.

Tags: Drill holes, drilled place, holders installed

The Types Of Balustrade

A balustrade can add a sense of order, elegance or formality to a building exterior.

A balustrade can add drama, charm or a historic sensibility to your indoor or outdoor design scheme. Balustrading is used in churches, hotels, public gardens and buildings, and theatres, as well as private residences. Balustrades can be composed of natural or synthetic materials. Types of balustrade include lace, wrought iron and curved glass. Does this Spark an idea?

Lace

Lace balustrades are, as the name suggests, intricate, delicate-looking panel designs. They are often used for stairways, railings and porches. Lace balustrades are commonly made of aluminum or cast iron. Lace balustrade patterns often depict a plant, flower or even wildlife. In countries such as England and Australia, these patterns may be registered with architectural authorities.

Wrought Iron

Wrought iron balustrades are composed of a series of balusters or individual posts. Wrought iron balusters are known for decorative designs. They may include scrollwork or ribbonlike, hammered, or twisted shapes or patterns. The patterns may occur at intervals or continue uninterrupted along the length of the post. A wrought iron balustrade may include a series of five to ten slender, uniform posts followed by a sturdier post of a more elaborate design.

Curved Glass

A stairway framed in sleek, curved glass can elevate the concept of railing to a whole new level. Curved glass balustrades can be employed in balcony designs as well. Typically, they are made of tempered "clear float glass," according to HIMFR.com, and are framed in wood or stainless steel. Curved glass balustrades may have no frame at all, giving them a spare, uncluttered look. They are easy to clean, as well as safe, according to the site. Tinted glass can add another dimension to this modern design idea.

Tags: balustrade include, Curved glass balustrades, designs They, glass balustrades, Lace balustrades

Cover Up An Ugly Through The Wall Air Conditioner

A tall potted tree can help cover or disguise an air conditioning unit.

An ugly air conditioning unit that is in a window or wall can make your room look utilitarian, and tarnish the image you worked so hard to create when planning your home's decor and style. While you may need to keep air conditioning units for the warmer parts of the year, if you don't have central air conditioning and heating, there are some things you can do to cover the air conditioner or make it less visible. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Hang curtains over the window if you are using an air conditioner that is in the window. When hanging curtains, you will need to get extra long brackets to hold the curtain rod so the drapery doesn't hit the air conditioner and billow outward. Use dark-colored draperies that match your decor and style, or draperies with a heavy backing, to keep anyone from seeing the air conditioner through the fabric on bright days.

2. Put a piece of art or a decorative mirror over the air conditioner when you are not using it in the winter. If the air conditioner is high up in the room, consider leaning or hanging a large vertical piece of art in front of the air conditioner.

3. Place a decorative screen in front of the air conditioner. A decorative screen can be moved when you are using the air conditioner, but if you use a wrought-iron or metal screen with holes in it, you may not need to move the screen when you turn the air conditioner on.

4. Add a decorative plant with thick branches like an olive or orange tree or a shrub in front of the air conditioner. You can use a good-quality silk plant or tree so you don't have to worry about taking care of the plant if you prefer.

5. Move a console table in front of the air conditioner with a tall vase or decorative objects on top of the table if the air conditioning unit is higher up on the wall. If your air conditioning unit is closer to the ground, you may be able to get away with just using a console table with a decorative runner on top.

6. Spray-paint the front of the air conditioner the same color as your wall. While paint may not fully hide the air conditioner, it will disguise it and make it much less noticeable.

Tags: front conditioner, conditioning unit, conditioner decorative, console table, decor style

Build A Rustic Flower Bed Fence

This rustic fence is made of straight branches set vertically.

Fences are often necessary to keep children, dogs and errant toys out of flower and vegetable gardens. There are many choices in fencing available to homeowners, including cyclone, picket and decorative wrought iron. However, a fun and frugal option is building your own fence from tree branches and tree stakes. By using readily available materials from your own and your neighbors' trimmings, you can provide a green solution for your fencing needs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the length and width of the flower bed.

2. Trim the bottom ends of the tree stakes to a point with the hatchet.

3. Set a 4-foot-long tree stake into each corner of the flower bed. Place a piece of scrap 2-by-4 on top of the stake and pound it 12 inches into the ground with a hammer. Set two 8-foot posts flanking the entrance to the garden.

4. Lay the long branches in pairs along the edges of the flower bed. Measure and set more tree stakes between the corners, adjusting the spacing to fit the length of the long branches.

5. Starting in a corner, predrill screw holes for the first long branch, 3 inches from the top and bottom of the tree stakes. Screw through the tree stake and into the end of the long branch. Stagger the next set of long branches, setting them 5 inches from the top and bottom of the next set of tree stakes, then attach the third set of long branches at 3 inches. Continue in this manner around the flower bed until all the horizontal branches are in place.

6. Arrange the short branches around the outer perimeter of your rustic fence. While a helper holds the first short branch vertically against the long branches, drill and screw it to the long branches. Attach the next short branch 1 1/2 to 2 inches from the first. Continue attaching the short branches all the way around the flower garden fence.

7. Leave the entrance open. Measure and cut one tree stake to extend across the top of the entrance. While your helper holds it on top of the two tall stakes, drill through the vertical stakes and into the horizontal top stake at an angle. Screw together, using at least two screws on each side.

Tags: long branches, tree stakes, inches from, tree stake, around flower

Ideas For Running Fences

There are many imaginative ways to fence an area.

Fences are important for marking property lines and keeping things inside or outside the boundaries of a yard or property, as well as sectioning off property for such uses as enhancing landscape design, protecting gardens, blocking a view, securing swimming pools, creating dog areas, and holding livestock. There are many possible ways to run fences, based upon the type of area to be fenced and the type of fence to be used. Does this Spark an idea?

Man-Made Fence

Metal fences can decorate a landscape.

Fences can be made from wood, metal, rock, plastic, wire--even canvas. The materials you choose will be based on the purpose of the fence and your aesthetic preferences. For example, if you want a metal fence, and beauty is not an important concern, a chain link fence is probably a good choice. These fences are sturdy, reliably keep animals and people in or out, and are relatively inexpensive to put up. If appearance is important, then you may prefer a custom fence made from iron or steel. Fencing such as wrought iron is attractive and reliable, but costs are much higher. Similar considerations of cost, appearance and strength apply to other types of materials.

Natural Fence

Sometimes nature itself, with the help of some nurturing and design from you, can create a useful fence or view barrier. Hedges or some types of trees can be planted along the edge of an area to be fenced. In time they will grow to a density and height that effectively creates a living fence. This type of barrier often adds to the beauty of the property and neighborhood, as it blends in with the environment around it. However, these natural fences take time to grow, so they may not be useful if you need the fence immediately.

Location of Fence

Split rails and barbed wire often are materials of choice to fence large properties.

There are a number of ways fences can be used near the home. The front yard may be fenced for the sake of security and privacy, with front gates placed to provide limited access for cars and people. However, front-yard fencing is prohibited by many neighborhood associations, as it creates a separated feeling in the neighborhood. Some homeowners also would prefer to look out at the street or their yard, rather than at a view-blocking fence. Sometimes low fences of various designs are selected for front yards because they are easy to see over but still create a small barrier for people and keep most animals out of the yard.

Back-yard fences are more common in neighborhoods. Often, the fencing chosen is at least 6 feet high to deny animals and people easy access to the back of a house. The materials for back-yard fencing often are selected to enhance the appearance of the home as much as for sturdiness.

On larger acreages, split-rail fences or other wood fences may be used in a variety of designs to mark property lines or line driveways or gardens, while higher metal fences may be used in areas where more security is needed.

Tags: fences used, animals people, area fenced, made from, property lines

Make Sand Casting Molds

Make Sand Casting Molds

A sand casting mold requires placing a duplicate of the object to be created into sand. The sand is packed tight around the object creating a mold. Once the sand hardens, metal or wax, is poured into the mold which creates an exact replica of the original object. There are a few different types of sand mixtures used. One is a mixture of silica sand, clay, and water called green sand. Making a sand casting mold is a simple process and can be done by most anyone. Follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Fill a bowl with green sand. This is a mixture of sand, clay and other additives which help harden and solidify the sand mold.

2. Choose an object you would like to make a mold of. For the sake of this article, the object will be a shell.

3. Compact the moist sand mixture around the outside of the shell. Firmly press the sand into all the crevices.

4. Let the sand mixture dry until it is hard. The sand casting mold must retain its shape until after the metal or wax is hardened. Once it is completely hard, remove the shell.

5. Pour into the sand casted mold, molten metal or wax. Once the liquid has solidified, remove the sand mold.

Tags: casting mold, sand casting mold, Casting Molds, green sand, into sand

Replace Patio Cushions

Replace your patio cushions for outdoor comfort.

We usually discover that our patio cushions have seen better days during the spring months as we shift from indoor living to outdoor living. Those patio cushions have taken a beating from many summers of heat and sun. If the frames of your patio furniture are still in good condition, you only need to replace your patio cushions. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Parts and Measurements

1. Use your old cushions as a pattern for your replacement cushions.

2. Cut apart the old covers of the patio cushions along the seams to separate the cover parts.

3. If you're good with eyeing measurements, then place the old cushions onto the new fabric and trace its outline onto the fabric instead of taking the old cover apart. You may also measure the width and length of the old cushions from seam to seam with a tape measure. Add an additional 2 inches to these measurements for a 1-inch seam allowance on all four sides of the cushion cover.

4. Lay the cover parts onto the new fabric and cut out the cushion pieces.

Assemble the Patio Cushions

5. Match up the patio cushion parts to sew the seams with the right sides facing each other. Use straight pins to hold the patio cushion parts together.

6. Sew the pieces together. Sew the bottom to the top, or sew the bottom to the side piece and then sew the side piece to the top, depending on the style of your patio cushions. Sew the stitches about 1-inch from the edge of the fabric.

7. Cut off the excess fabric at the corners, between the stitch line and the edge of the fabric, but not too close to the stitch line. Extra fabric will bunch up at the corners if they are left on the cushions.

8. Press the seams flat and turn the patio cushion covers inside out.

9. Insert the foam into the cushion covers, close the opened side by folding in the fabric's raw edges and then pin both sides of the opening together with straight pins. Stitch the opening closed with a sewing machine or by hand.

Maintenance

10. Extend the life of your patio cushions. When left outside, patio cushions are exposed to dust-carrying wind, rain, temperature fluctuations and the harsh sun.

11. Wash your patio furniture frames before putting your new cushions on them. Let the furniture dry.

12. Place the cushions on the furniture only when you expect to use them. Store them inside if you are not using them.

13. Check the weather forecast often during the warm seasons. If rain is expected, do not leave your patio furniture outside that day.

14. Place your patio furniture in a shaded, well-ventilated area to prevent mildew from forming on the cushions during hot and humid summer days.

Tags: your patio, patio cushions, patio furniture, your patio cushions, your patio furniture, onto fabric, patio cushion

Description Of An Ornamental Iron Worker

Ornamental iron workers must have a variety of skills.

Ornamental iron workers install stairs, handrails, curtain walls and other metal after the structure of a building has been completed, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. They also install prefabricated ornamental ironwork such as metal window and door frames; metal trim and paneling; and motor-driven and automatic power doors, according to CareerPlanner.com. These professionals must meet various skills requirements to be successful in this field.

Duties

Ornamental iron workers hoist pieces into position and ensure that the pieces are properly fitted and aligned before bolting or welding them for a secure fit. They measure and mark layouts for installation based on blueprints and using devices such as squares and compasses. Ornamental iron workers also weld brackets to structural framework, such as columns, and drill holes in metal and concrete using power drills and hand tools. Their duties additionally might include mixing concrete, setting up ornamental fences and digging postholes. They might work with bronze or create frames for mounting glass in ornamental cast stonework as well.

Skills

Ornamental iron workers must know select the correct equipment for a task, evaluate the quality of products, identify problems and maintain equipment, according to OccupationalInfo.org. They also must have strong judgment, time management, active learning, communication and critical thinking skills. In addition, these professionals must have good arm-hand steadiness, manual and finger dexterity, visualization skills and information-gathering skills. Ornamental iron workers also must be accurate.

Environment

Ornamental iron workers must have the strength necessary to push, pull, lift or carry heavy objects. They also must be prepared to frequently stand and walk, twist and turn their bodies, work with hazardous equipment, make repetitive motions and work in areas where sound and noise levels can be uncomfortable. These professionals usually work both indoors and outdoors in all kinds of temperature conditions.

Education

Most employers recommend that ornamental iron workers complete a three- to four-year apprenticeship that combines classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training. Apprenticeship programs are administered by committees of members of local unions of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers or other local contractors' association chapters. To get into this type of program, students usually need a high school diploma or GED. High school courses in areas such as math, welding and mechanical drawing also are beneficial. Some ornamental iron workers also learn their skills on the job.

Outlook

Employment of structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers, which includes ornamental iron workers, is projected to climb 12 percent through 2018. Median hourly wages of these professionals in May 2008 were about $20, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Tags: iron workers, Ornamental iron workers, Ornamental iron, must have, also must, iron workers

Paint Wrought Iron

Wrought Iron Railing

Paint wrought iron railings and furniture to restore them to their original beauty. This article will explain prepare and paint wrought iron so it lasts. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Prepare the wrought iron by using the wire brush to remove loose paint and rust. This is important because the wrought iron will continue to rust under the new paint and will eventually bubble through if painted over.

2. Use the paint thinner to clean the spots on the wrought iron that were wire brushed. It is also a good idea to clean the flat surfaces at the same time.

3. Use oil base metal primer and the bristle brush to spot-prime the bare wrought iron and allow to dry thoroughly. I prefer the rustoleum primer.

4. Use oil base metal enamel and the bristle brush for the top coat on the wrought iron. One coat is enough if repainting the same color, but two will be required if changing color significantly. I prefer the Benjamin Moore Metal Enamel. Work systematically, painting one section at a time, so you don't loose track of where you are (easy to miss spots on railings or furniture...especially when repainting the same color).

5. Use Penetrol paint conditioner to thin the enamel at a rate of 1 part Penetrol to 8 parts enamel. This will help the paint flow better, reduce drips & runs, and also aids as a rust inhibitor.

Tags: wrought iron, base metal, bristle brush, railings furniture, repainting same, repainting same color

Stretch Wire Mesh Fence

Wire mesh fences are a simple, cheap way to fence off areas. Unfortunately, wire mesh fence is often seen as a temporary solution, as it tends to stretch and flex, which can make the fence snag. Learn to stretch your wire mesh properly in order to make the fence a more useful and long-lasting. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Space your fence posts no more than 8 feet apart. Dig post holes every 6 to 8 feet down your boundary line. Pour concrete in the holes and insert the fence posts. Use a level to make sure the fence posts stand straight.

2. Cut two two-by-fours to the height of the wire mesh to act as stretchers.

3. Drill round-head bolts every 8 inches along the length of the wire stretchers. Do not tighten them all the way down.

4. Wrap the end links of the wire mesh around the bolts on the wire stretchers. Screw the bolts in tightly around the mesh. Make sure to wrap enough wire mesh around the boards so it is secured tightly.

5. Affix one of the wire stretchers to a fence post. Use at least 4-inch carpentry screws to attach the bottom, top and center of the wire stretcher to the outside of the fence post. If you pull the wire mesh out, it should run perpendicular to the wire stretcher and fence post.

6. Tie a hand-cranked chain pulley tautly to the next fence post. Affix the chain hook to the center of the non-attached wire stretcher. Crank the fence into the next post. Crank slowly, allowing the wire time to stretch without snapping as it becomes more and more taut.

7. Lock the pulley's crank teeth into place. Screw down the other wire stretcher onto the post. Unlock and detach the hand crank.

Tags: fence post, wire stretcher, fence posts, wire mesh, wire mesh, wire stretchers, make fence

Painting A Wrought Iron Bed Frame

Wrought iron furniture is often intricately detailed.

Wrought iron bed frames lend a classic, old world look and feel to a room. Furniture made from this distinctive ironwork can often be found at yard sales and antique shops as well as traditional furniture stores. Wrought iron is traditionally coated with black paint but it can be refinished if a different color is desired or if the finish has become damaged, rusted or dull from ordinary wear and tear. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Put on protective gloves.

2. Scrape away any loose or flaking paint and rust with a stiff wire brush.

3. Lightly sand the entire bed frame with aluminum oxide sandpaper. Roughening up the metal slightly helps the primer and paint to grip the surface, resulting in a more professional finish.

4. Dip a soft cloth into the mineral spirits. Wipe the entire wrought iron bed frame with mineral spirits to remove sandpaper particles, dust, grime and oils. Wait for the bed frame to completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

5. Apply at least two coats of alkyd primer for metal. Previously painted wrought iron does not necessarily need to be primed, but primer helps paint to bond better with the metal. Several thinner coats provide better results than one thick coat of primer. Primer also prevents old color from bleeding through if the piece is being repainted in a lighter color.

6. Paint the bed frame with at least two coats of oil-based paint. Oil-based paint generally takes longer to dry than latex. Read the label for approximate drying time before using the bed frame.

Tags: frame with, Wrought iron, least coats, mineral spirits

Refinish Rusted Iron Gates

Remove rust from an iron gate with a steel brush.

Wrought-iron gates provide a nostalgic ambiance to the landscaping of a home. Unfortunately, iron rusts over time when exposed to moisture, leaving red or orange flakes on the once regal ornamental fixture. To refinish rusted iron gates, you must remove the rust stains before attempting to primer and paint. Once they are removed, finish the iron gates with primer and glossy black paint to bring back the splendor of the wrought iron. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Scrub the rust free from the iron gates with a steel brush. Use heavy force to rub the rust from the iron.

2. Rub an 80-grit sandpaper or steel scouring pad into tight crevices or between railings. Run the sandpaper or pad over each entire gate to create a smooth surface in which to primer and paint. Wipe a rag over the gates to remove all loosened rust.

3. Cover the gate surface with naval jelly, using a cloth or an applicator. Allow the jelly to remain on the gates for 20 minutes. Wash the jelly from the gates with cool water and a sponge. Dry the gates thoroughly with rags.

4. Apply a metal primer to the gates. Use a bristle brush to cover the gates completely. Brush the primer into any grooves and indentations on the gates. Allow the primer to dry entirely before painting.

5. Paint the gates using a black oil-based, glossy paint for maximum coverage. The gloss allows the ironwork to stand out. Start at the top of the gates and work your way down. For large gates, work in sections to ensure you cover the gates completely.

Tags: from iron, gates with, iron gates, cover gates, cover gates completely, gates completely, gates work

Make A Stick Holder For Receipts

It feels great to have everything in order, especially at tax time. Some of the most difficult things to keep up with are all of those receipts. The easiest thing I've found to keep your receipts in one place is a receipt stick. You can go to any office supply store and pay from $10 to $25 for a receipt holder, or you can make this one with leftover items that would go into the trash for absolutely free. The choice is yours.

Instructions

1. Start with the largest lid. This lid should be 3 inches across or larger, and it needs to be one-third to one-half inch deep. Wash it thoroughly, and make sure it's clean and dry. Scuff it up real well on the outside and around the inside and outside of the sides. Don't worry about the inside bottom as that won't show at all. Place the lid face down on the piece of old scrap wood. Poke a nail hole through the center of the lid. Don't make the hole without the wood as it will prevent the top from laying flat, and it needs to do that in order to work.

2. Cover the end of your hammer with a piece of thick fabric like a towel. This will prevent the hammer from marking up the lids. If the nail hole makes either lid a little uneven, turn it upside down on the scrap wood, and gently tap it with the hammer until it's flat. Be careful not to ding it up with the hammer. Use a very gentle touch. Make sure that they're as flat as you can get them.

3. Put the two jar lids face up on a piece of newspaper. Spray the sides and top with spray enamel or flat black metal paint, holding the can about 6 inches away. Spray lightly and evenly. Let it dry according to the directions on the can. Take your sandpaper, and lightly sand the lip of the edge. Turn the lids upside down, and spray the inside sides very lightly. Let this dry. If you missed any spots, put a second, very light coat on evenly, and let it dry again. Don't repaint over wet paint. Always let it dry in between as it sometimes covers better than it looks like it did after it dried. Also, it's very easy to get too much paint and make a drippy mess if you don't let it dry between coats.

4. Lay the small lid down, and fill it up with some modeling clay. Don't push it in too tightly because the nail has to go through that. This gives it weight to stand properly. If you want to use sand, put a small piece of scotch tape over the nail hole (on the inside so you won't mess up the paint). Fill the smaller lid almost to the top with sand. Just leave a little bit of space in the lid so that the nail will have enough space to slide through. If you use the sand, put the larger lid on top of it and flip it over. Take a little bit of white glue, and put a bead of glue evenly around the lid so that the sand can't escape, and let it dry well. Modeling clay is much less trouble, though.

5. Take the filled lids, and slide them onto the nail so that the nail is on the bottom of both lids. It should slide through with a little pushing. It has to go through the scotch tape and then the sand or clay. You can file the sharpness of the nail down a little bit if you have kids but it's smarter to leave this up high out of reach, like on the fridge, if there are little ones around. Your spindle is all done, and it looks just about as professional as those at the office supply store.

Tags: nail hole, office supply, office supply store, scotch tape, scrap wood

Neutralize Naval Jelly

Naval Jelly, a rust remover made by the Henkel Corporation, contains phosphoric acid. Like any product that contains an acid as an active ingredient, follow certain precautions for its storage and handling. While the precautions for handling the product are listed on the container, it's possible that you will find it necessary to neutralize the Naval Jelly--possibly you spilled some, or it dripped onto your patio while you were stripping the paint off of a wrought iron fence or furniture or you might be the first responder to an environmental spill. Whatever the reason, the instructions in the Material Safety Data Sheet for Naval Jelly are specific.

Instructions

1. Neutralize the Naval Jelly with soda ash or lime. Naval Jelly uses phosphoric acid to strip rust from metal. Soda ash and lime are both "base" compounds, which neutralize acids.

Both soda ash and lime can be found in garden shops, where they're sold for use in gardening. Both come in a powdered form and can be shoveled onto the Naval Jelly.

2. Spread an inert material, such as sorbalite clay, blanketing the Naval Jelly completely. Sorbalite clay is used to make some kinds of cat litter and industrial oil absorbents. It absorbs the moisture in the Naval Jelly quickly.

Use the shovel to deposit the Naval Jelly, now in a mud-like form, into an approved hazardous waste disposal container.

3. Flush the area with running water from your garden hose, at full pressure, for at least 15 minutes. Adding water in large quantities dilutes any remaining phosphoric acid in the Naval Jelly to about 0.0000185:1, and removes the threat that the acid might prevent. Because of the level of dilution, Naval Jelly is no longer considered hazardous to the environment.

Tags: Naval Jelly, phosphoric acid, Neutralize Naval Jelly

Buy The Best Clothes Iron

A quality iron will enhance, not ruin, the look of your clothes.

If you invest a lot of money in clothes, a good iron is a must-have. Today's irons are high-tech; not only do they create steam, but they also have titanium finishes, digital temperature controls and auto cleaning. You don't have to spend a lot to get the best clothes iron. Although there are certainly differences between $10 irons and $90 irons, some features aren't necessary to get your clothes free of wrinkles. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Look for a steam iron with a digital temperature control. If you have clothes that are made from all types of fabric, an accurate temperature is a necessity if you don't want to ruin your garments. Cotton and linen clothes can handle very high heat, but fibers such as acetate, wool, charmeuse and polyester can only handle a slightly warm iron.

2. Find an iron that has at least 1500 watts. Any lower than that, and it won't steam up efficiently. A good iron heats up quickly and produces lots of steam right away when set to do so.

3. Look for auto shutoff. This is a safety feature on which you cannot compromise. Irons with this feature will automatically shut off if it doesn't detect any movement for a certain period of time.

4. Examine the iron's body material. Plastic parts are cheaper to make, but titanium and stainless steel irons are the best. These are strong metals that won't crack if you drop the iron.

5. Search for an iron with an auto-cleaning feature. It will heat up and vaporize any mineral particles stuck inside or around the iron. Otherwise, these minerals can deposit on your clothes and cause stains.

6. Make sure you can clearly see the water level in the iron. A good iron should hold at least 6 oz. of water. Accidentally overfilling an iron can cause steam burns.

7. Find one with several steam settings and many vents. The more vents, the more even the distribution of steam on your clothes. The best irons have "smart" steam settings that increase the amount of steam as the temperature rises. Low temperature settings have little to no steam. High iron temperatures should also create a lot of steam.

8. Figure out if you want a cordless or corded iron. Cordless irons are convenient, but they may not have as much power as corded irons.

9. Look for ceramic or nonstick finishes on the sole plates. These finishes don't stick to clothes and they heat up quickly and evenly.

Tags: your clothes, good iron, create steam, digital temperature, feature will, iron with, steam settings

Ideas For Kitchen Wall Murals

Wall murals can visually increase the space in your kitchen with landscape designs that seem to stretch into forever or with an outdoor patio that beckons you to sit and enjoy. You can paint your own murals by projecting any image onto the wall, tracing the outline and filling it in with colorful acrylics. Does this Spark an idea?

Vineyard Landscape

Open up your kitchen visually with a vineyard landscape made up of rolling hills, covered with grape vines, that stretch into a distant mountain range. You can adjust the colors of your vineyard landscape to fit the color scheme in your kitchen based on the time of day reflected in the vineyard mural. For a softer palette, depict the landscape as if it were early morning with muted shades of blue along the horizon and misty fog along the tops of the vines. You could also embrace the vibrant colors of a sunset in the distance to complement a kitchen decorated in shades of red, orange or yellow. Midday in the vineyard can incorporate bright hues of green vines, blue skies and cobalt mountains, with our without snow.

Courtyard Patio

Enlarge a breakfast nook in your kitchen with a corner mural of a courtyard patio. Consider cobblestone pavers as the flooring for your patio with a white wrought iron table and chairs surrounded by a black wrought iron fence covered in flowering vines of wisteria and clematis. Add a mosaic fountain along one wall of the mural and place a small fountain in the center of your breakfast table to create the sound effects. You can also include images of your pets into the mural, like your cat curled up asleep beneath the wisteria or your dog stretched out alongside the table.

Farmyard

Add a farmyard mural to a country kitchen with green meadow pastures and horses in the distance, roosters and chickens pecking around the yard and a barn off to one side. Place colorful ceramic pots overflowing with herbs along the pathway to the barn and an old water well complete with a dipping bucket in the center of the yard. You could also run a line of fencing that runs from the barn, between the yard and the pastures. Decorate the side of the barn with images of old metal signs or hanging farm tools and remember to place a weather vane on top.

Tags: your kitchen, kitchen with, could also, stretch into, vineyard landscape, wrought iron, your kitchen with

Care For A Home

Care and maintenance keeps your home looking good.

Living on your own, with your spouse or significant other for the first time is an exciting new phase of life. The new responsibilities associated with home-ownership often temper the excitement. Keeping both a well-manicured exterior and a clean interior is a lot of work. Many new homeowners have little or no experience with household upkeep. Overwhelmed with new tasks, projects and maintenance leaves many wondering what to do and where to start. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Routine Interior Care

1. Dust all furniture, televisions, stereos, bookshelves and pictures with a soft dust rag. Begin at the top and work your way down. Starting at the top allows dust to fall to the lower areas and then you whisk it away.

2. Apply glass cleaner to windows and mirrors and wipe with lint-free paper towels.

3. Spray showers, bathtubs and sinks with an all-purpose cleaner and wipe clean with a damp rag. Dry with a rag to avoid water spots. Pour or spray toilet bowl cleaner into toilets and scrub with a toilet brush.

4. Wipe counter tops with a damp sponge to remove dust and surface dirt. Remove stove grates and wipe the stove with a damp sponge. Use a grease-fighting stove cleaner to remove grease and grime. Wipe the front of the refrigerator and handles with a damp rag.

5. Sweep or vacuum all floors throughout the house. Mop hard surface floors with the appropriate surface cleaner and a sponge or string mop. Dry the floor to avoid water streaks and spots.

Routine Exterior Care

6. Mow the grass with a power lawnmower or reel lawnmower. Cut the grass as necessary to maintain the desired lawn height.

7. Pull weeds from flowerbeds, lawns and between masonry surfaces. Pulling weeds as they crop up saves time later when they overtake your space.

8. Sweep the patio, porch, deck, driveway and sidewalk to remove all debris and dirt.

Periodic Interior Care

9. Apply wood paste-wax to wood furniture. Allow the wax to dry to a white haze and buff with a soft cloth to remove the wax.

10. Spread floor wax over floors with a lamb's wool applicator. Allow the wax to dry to a white haze and buff the floor with a rotary buffer.

11. Seal natural stone floors and counter tops with sealant to prevent staining. Seal grout lines between tiles with a grout sealer.

12. Remove window treatments and launder according to the manufacturer's directions

13. Empty the refrigerator of its contents. Take out the shelves and wash them with warm soapy water. Dry thoroughly with a rag. Wipe all interior surfaces with warm soapy water or an all-purpose cleaner. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Periodic Exterior Care

14. Access gutters with a tall stepladder or extension ladder. Remove the accumulated leaves and debris to allow water to flow freely through the gutters and downspouts.

15. Wash the exterior windows with glass cleaner and wipe clean with lint-free paper towels. Wash the siding with a mild detergent and water. Use a long-handled broom to scrub away stains. Apply a mold and mildew remover to get kill mold and mildew growth. Wash outdoor furniture with a mild detergent and scrub stains away with a scrub brush. Spray the furniture with a garden hose to rinse off soap reside.

16. Clean and seal wood decks and fences with weatherproofing sealant. Roll on weatherproofing paint or clear coat with a long-handled paint roller.

17.Apply fertilizers and herbicides to lawns and flower beds as directed by the fertilizer or herbicide manufacturer.

18. Change batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every six months to keep you and your family safe. Have your furnace and chimney professionally cleaned before the start of each heating season to remove hazardous buildups.

Occasional Home Care

19. Scrape, wash and repaint painted interior and exterior surfaces.

20. Inspect roofing shingles and chimney flashing for lifted areas. Nail in lifted shingles with roofing nails. Apply roofing tar to gaps around chimney flashing to seal it from water entry.

21. Use caulk to seal cracks and crevices around windows and doors. Remove and replace split or pulling bathtub caulk and replace it with new caulk.

22. Scrape paint off wrought-iron railings with a wire brush. Wash the railing and repaint with a rust-inhibiting paint.

Tags: with damp, Allow white, Allow white haze, all-purpose cleaner, avoid water, chimney flashing

Replace A Wrought Iron Porch Post

Wrought iron porch posts used to add old-world charm and elegance to your home. These days, however, that look can be quite outdated and undesirable. Additionally, exposure to the elements usually causes the iron to rust and crumble over time. To update and upgrade your home's facade, replace your wrought iron porch posts with a more modern option. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose new posts to replace the old ones. If you like the look of wrought iron, you can have custom posts made in a more modern design. Alternatively, you can use wood beams or pillars to support your porch roof.

2. Insert a temporary support post between the porch ceiling and the porch floor a few feet from the post you are removing. Use a screw jack to raise it into proper position, and protect the roof beam by placing a wood shim between it and the support post. This will support the weight of the ceiling as you remove the wrought iron posts.

3. Remove the old wrought iron porch post. Most of these posts are secured to the porch using masonry screws, but some may be embedded in the concrete. For those that are embedded in concrete, use a reciprocating saw with a metal cutting blade to cut off the supports right up against the concrete.

4. Measure the distance between the porch ceiling and the floor.

5. Cut off the new porch post to the right length. For hollow porch posts, a handsaw will suffice. Use a circular saw if you are using 4-by-4s to replace your posts.

6. Position the new post in the same place as the old post and secure it into place. For hollow columns, a bead of adhesive around the perimeter will seal the post to the floor. 4-by-4s can be nailed into the ceiling and secured with a base plate.

Tags: iron porch, porch posts, wrought iron, between porch, between porch ceiling

Construct A Wooden Porch Railing

Wooden porch railings add architectural detail to your porch.

The front porch is a quintessential American symbol of community. The wooden porch rail is a classic element that speaks to a simpler time when homes were handcrafted by their owners. Today's homeowners have the advantage of a shortcut in the form of prefabricated rail pieces. The main elements of a porch rail are the banister, or top rail, the vertical spindles and a bottom rail that sandwiches the spindles and provides support. Rails are built in sections that are cut to fit between the main porch columns.

Instructions

1. Buy enough prefabricated banister to line the porch between the columns at the top and bottom of the rail. Choose banister spindles that match the style of the other moldings on the porch. You will need one for every 4 inches of rail to meet building code.

2. Sand the banister rails with a random orbit sander and 100-grit paper to remove the rough edges. Sand the entire surface of the each rail section. Make a second pass with 150-grit paper to give a smooth finish. Do the same for each spindle. Sand details by hand.

3. Prime the rails and spindles with oil-bonding primer if the rail is to be painted. This ensures adequate coverage to prolong the life of the rail. Apply a coat of stain if the wood grain is to be left natural.

4. Lay two sections of banister between a pair of sawhorses with the flat top facing out and the spindle mortises facing in. Mortises are the square holes that the ends of the spindles fit into for strength and easier construction.

5. Use a tape measure to mark the flat face of the rail on the outside above every mortise. Drill pilot holes, centered over each mortise, with a pilot bit. Countersink the holes lightly so that the screw heads are flush with the surface of the rail.

6. Glue and screw a spindle into each mortise in the bottom rail using 1 5/8-inch treated deck screws and wood glue. Run the screws in until the head is just below the surface of the rail. Apply glue to each mortise in the top rail and align the top rail with the top ends of the spindles. Drive one screw into the end of each spindle through the top rail as for the bottom.

7. Fill the screw holes with wood grain colored filler for stained rails and two part body filler putty for stained rails. Allow the filler to harden, and sand the rail smooth. Use an art brush to apply primer or stain to the screw head filler.

8. Apply two coats of matching paint, or clear finish to the rails with a soft-bristle brush. Allow the label recommended time between coats for drying to get the best results out of your finish.

9. Cut the rail sections to length to fit between the porch columns. Use a wood spacer to lift the rail the proper height off the porch deck, and attach the top and bottom rails to the inside faces of the columns with 2-inch L brackets and 3/4-inch exterior wood screws.

Tags: bottom rail, each mortise, each spindle, ends spindles, into each, porch columns

Southern California Trout Plants

The state stocks trout in many Southern California parks and lakes.

Trout plants take place in the cool winter and early spring months in Southern California. The State Department of Fish and Game stocks catchable trout in public lakes and reservoirs throughout Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, Riverside and San Diego counties. The state plants trout when water temperatures are below 75 degrees Fahrenheit and stream flow is above 10 cubic feet per second. Trout stocking discontinues if algae blooms, aquatic weed growth, high turbidity, high alkalinity or other conditions make the water unsuitable for fishing. Does this Spark an idea?

Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Center

The Kenneth Hahn park lake is in the urban Baldwin Hills area of Los Angeles. The DFG plants rainbow trout and catfish in January. The lake also has largemouth bass and bluegill. Fishing permits are required and the park is open from 6 a.m. to sunset each day. It includes picnic areas, children's play areas and 5 miles of hiking trails. Specific dates for trout planting are not given. This prevents fishing activity from being focused to the trout plant time.

Cachuma Lake

Cachuma Lake in the Santa Barbara area is one of largest southern California trout fishing areas. Its lake-bottom topography of rocky drop-offs, shallow areas and plant beds provide fish with ample places to spawn. In addition to trout, the lake is stocked with bass, crappie, bluegill, sunfish and catfish. Fish plants begin in October and include up to 500 lbs. of trout at each plant. Camping and boating are available.

Glen Helen Regional Park

Trout fishermen often overlook the two small lakes in Glen Helen Regional Park, Riverside County, because boating is not permitted. Both the Department of Fish and Game and local park district stock the lakes with trout and catfish. The trout average between 8 and 11 inches. Glen Helen is a day-use park with a swimming lagoon, paddleboat rentals and picnic areas. A bait and tackle store is available.

Yorba Regional Park

Yorba Park is at the mouth of the Santa Ana Canyon in the Anaheim hills of Orange County. It has four fishing lakes connected by shallow streams. The two larger lakes in the middle are recommended for trout fishing. The lakes are shallow and weeds are a problem in summer months. Rainbow trout are planted during winter and early spring and catfish during the summer months. Yorba Park is a day-use facility with picnic areas and hiking trails.

Tags: Glen Helen, picnic areas, Regional Park, Cachuma Lake, Department Fish, Department Fish Game, early spring