Secure Wrought Iron Posts

When building a fence out of wrought iron, the key to keeping everything together is proper installation of the wrought iron posts. Each section of fence is connected to these posts that are secured to the ground via concrete. If the posts aren't secure, the fence won't be either, and it could fall down or flex. Properly securing the wrought iron posts takes a bit of time and patience. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Determine where you want your fence. Pound stakes into the ground with a hammer where you want the wrought iron posts. Measure the distance between each stake, making sure the stakes are 96 inches apart.

2. Measure the depth of your wrought iron post with the tape measure. Determine the depth of the post hole by subtracting the length of your post from the height of the fence. Dig a hole at each stake using the post hole digger. Measure each hole to ensure the proper depth, and dig the circumference about 4 inches wider than the post.

3. Pound two stakes into the ground on two sides of the post hole, about 2 feet from the edge of the hole. Place the post into the ground. Tie string to the stakes and the top of the post to ensure that the post is anchored. Hold the level against the the iron post and make sure it is plumb on at least two sides.

4. Pour the bag of pre-mixed concrete into the wheelbarrow. Add about half the recommended amount of water listed on the bag. Mix the concrete with the water using a hoe, adding more water per the directions on the bag until the concrete has the general consistency of oatmeal.

5. Pour the concrete into the post hole using the shovel. Recheck the wrought iron post to ensure it is level. Allow the concrete to dry at least 24 hours before removing the strings.

Tags: wrought iron, post hole, into ground, iron post, iron posts

Decorate With Italian Theme

Pictures of vineyards will work well in your Italian-themed home.

Italian themes are popular in works of art and in homes. They create a warm, old world ambiance that expresses charm and elegance. Decorating your home with Tuscany- or Renaissance-inspired furnishings and decor will make you feel as if you live near a vineyard or the rolling landscape of the Italian countryside. Choosing Italian-style furnishings and decor is effortless with the many styles available. Knowing what is fashionable in Italian homes will help you accomplish this goal. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Grace your kitchen and bathroom countertops with granite, marble and limestone that Italian houses use in abundance.

2. Paint the rooms in warm, deep shades of burgundy or rust, deep greens and the blue shades of the Mediterranean. Use warm gold and apricot tones to enrich the powerful colors in your accessories and decor.

3. Incorporate unpolished metals such as copper, tin, wrought iron and pewter into your home, using iron medallions for the wall, bookcases or end tables with ornate metal legs.

4. Set around bowls of real or ceramic fruit to give the room an earthy, natural ambiance.

5. Decorate with artificial grapes or grapevines above doorways or archways.

6. Use colored ceramic bowls, sculptures or pottery to accent your coffee tables or shelves.

7. Hang colorful tapestries on your wall with lovely Tuscan or Renaissance scenes and carry that theme over into your framed artwork and pictures.

8. Place antique or multi-colored area rugs around the wood or stone floorings to highlight the natural, down-to-earth appeal of this decorating style.

9. Incorporate terra-cotta tiles for use on your roof, walls and floors. This rich, brownish-orange shade goes well with the warm interiors of an Italian-style home.

Tags: furnishings decor, into your, your home

Fit A Mattress To An Antique Iron Bed

Fit an antique iron bed with a new mattress.

Antique beds add the beauty of artisanship and the uniqueness of an antique to a bedroom. Finding a mattress to fit can take extra planning, as standardized mattress sizes were not always the norm. Iron beds also take extra care, as you can't just screw in boards to adjust for modern mattress sizes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the base of the iron bed by measuring from side to side and from foot to head. Subtract an inch from each measurement to allow for space when installing the mattress. Compare the measurements to today's standard mattress sizes: twin is 38 by 75 inches; twin extra long is 38 inches by 80 inches; full is 53 inches by 75 inches; queen is 60 inches by 80 inches; king is 76 inches by 80 inches; and California king is 72 inches by 84 inches. Choose the size that fits the base of your iron bed, without hanging over.

2. Order a custom mattress if your antique iron bed falls under the common category of a three-quarter-sized bed. You will also need to measure from the floor to the top of the slats, or support, as well as from the top of the slats to the area where the top of the mattress should come, to help determine the thickness of the mattress.

3. Make your own mattress, if a standard mattress will not fit and you do not want to order a custom mattress, by purchasing firm foam with at least 8 inches of thickness and memory foam with at least 6 inches of thickness. Cut the foam to fit the width and length of your iron bed. Cover the foam with sheets and/or a mattress cover.

Tags: inches inches, foam with, mattress sizes, antique iron, custom mattress, foam with least, inches thickness

Strip Cast Iron Of Paint & Rust

Cast iron rusts over time, but you can remove rust.

Cast iron is a tough and durable metal that was often used to make fireplaces and stoves in older homes. Although less frequently used in modern times, many homes still have cast-iron fixtures. Some of these may have been there for many decades or even centuries, and have been painted over. They may also have started to rust. It is possible to restore these fixtures back to their original metal finish (or prepare them for repainting) by stripping the paint and the rust from the iron. This involves some harsh chemicals, time and hard work. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Removing Paint From Cast Iron

1. Sandblast the iron item. Blasting with abrasive grit is the fastest way to remove thick layers of paint. Avoid pressures higher than 100 pounds per square inch, and do not use copper-based aggregates, as they may react with the iron. You should also avoid very sharp or hard aggregates; sand or iron slag are the best choices. You can rent a sandblaster from most home-improvement stores.

2. Apply a chemical paint-remover such as methylene chloride or potassium hydroxide. These are strongly alkaline compounds, so wear gloves and goggles when applying them. They are often available in a paste or gel that you can spread over the painted areas; use a putty knife and a brush to work them into cracks and crevices. Let the remover sit on the paint for as long as the instructions on the package dictate.

3. Wipe the paint and paint remover off of the iron using a rag or a scouring pad. Remove all of the paint remover, as leftover traces will weaken paint you apply later.

4. Paint the iron item with an anti-corrosive primer immediately after cleaning and drying it to prevent the surface from rusting.

Stripping Rust From Cast Iron

5. Wipe down the rusted surface with mineral spirits. Dab the spirits on a rag and rub the iron. This will cut through any wax or sealant on top of the rust.

6. Scrub rusted areas with steel wool or a piece of 400-grit wet-or-dry sandpaper wrapped around a wooden block.

7. Wipe down the areas you have scrubbed with a clean rag to remove the rust and dirt that that the steel wool has loosened.

8. Dry the areas you scrubbed thoroughly before applying any paint, polish or other products to them. This will avoid trapping water underneath their surfaces, where it will rust the iron again.

Tags: Cast iron, Cast Iron, From Cast, From Cast Iron, have been, iron item

Refinish Antique Metal Bed Frames

Antique furniture is a valuable investment and should be properly cared for. Brass, silver, pewter, chrome and many other metals are beautiful but prone to tarnish and discoloration. Often, owners of antique bed frames hire professional restoration companies to refinish their antiques. Hiring a professional is recommended if you are at all uncertain about your abilities to complete the job. However, with the right tools and careful execution, you can get the job done without the expense of paying someone else to do it. Before you begin the project, make sure you are working with solid metal and not a metal-plated frame. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove any existing lacquer from the surface of the bed frame. Use paint stripper to expose the metal surface beneath the topcoat. Apply the paint stripper with a brush. Allow the solvent to soak in according to manufacturer's directions, usually five to 10 minutes.

2. Use steel wool to remove the softened lacquer. Run the steel wool across the metal bed frame in a circular motion. Remove all traces of paint stripper using damp rags.

3. Polish the metal bed with good quality polish. Simichrome is designed for use on brass, gold, silver, aluminum, magnesium, pewter, chrome, sterling, copper and stainless steel. Continue to rub in polish until all traces of tarnish or discoloration are removed.

4. Buff the bed frame to a brilliant shine with clean, dry rags.

5. Apply quality car wax to the metal bed frame. Multiple coats of wax will be best for maintaining and preserving the polish for longer periods of time.

Tags: paint stripper, metal frame, pewter chrome, steel wool, tarnish discoloration

Paint Metal Chairs

Metal furniture is a lovely way to enhance your outdoor living space, not only can the pieces be beautiful but they can be reliable and last many years. So what happens when you are in the process of refurbishing your deck or patio space when you notice that your metal chairs have some rust spots on their surfaces? Of course, you want to keep them because they still function fine and do not need to be replaced. With a few steps, you can make your metal chairs look like new. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Place your chair in a well-ventilated area, like your yard. Lay a drop-cloth down if you are working on a surface you need to protect. Otherwise, painting on your lawn is fine as there will be no permanent damage done to your grass. Rub down the entire metal chair with a wet rag, cleaning every corner and the underside of the chair.

2. Scrub away the rust spots with the wire brush. You might have to spend extra time on the underside of the chair, as moisture tends get trapped there and create deeper rust spots. Wipe the furniture down again to get rid of the loose rust.

3. Apply the spray paint primer, making sure to thoroughly cover the entire surface area. The primer prevents rusting by bonding itself to the surface of the metal. Read the directions on the primer to check how long to wait between priming and painting. You can usually start painting the first coat of paint a few minutes after applying the primer, but make sure.

4. Shake the spray paint can before you begin painting the first layer. Hold the can 10 to 14 inches away from the furniture surface. Spray the paint all over the surface of the chair, using your whole arm and making constant side-to-side movements. Do not let your hand stop over one spot or the paint will be uneven and drippy.

5. Allow the paint to dry after you have sprayed one thin layer onto your metal chair. According to Askthebuilder.com, it is better to apply two thin layers than one thick layer. Let the first layer sit for around 15 minutes before painting the second layer.

Tags: rust spots, your metal, first layer, metal chair, metal chairs, painting first

Make A Primitive Small Kitchen

Use crocks to store food and utensils in a primitive kitchen.

Primitive decorating -- prim for short -- has its roots in the log cabins, saltboxes and simple farmhouses built in the Colonial era in the United States. Primitive furniture is rough and utilitarian, meant to be used, not admired. Prim also features decorative elements of American country style that brighten its no-frills appearance. A small kitchen may present a decorating challenge, but with a little imagination and some basic knowledge of design it's possible to create one that's both primitive and practical. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Lay a wood plank floor. Leave it unfinished and distress it to reflect the weathering that comes with wear and tear. When it has weathered to your satisfaction consider applying polyurethane to make it easier to clean.

2. Choose hanging cabinets with punched tin doors. Opt for some crafted from beadboard. Paint them white to visually open up the space but apply a traditional colonial color such as grayish blue or barn red to the inside for contrast. Use black hinges and wooden knobs.

3. Remove a group of existing countertop cabinets and drawers in favor of free standing pieces such as pie safes and jelly cupboards to provide storage as well as authenticity. Opt for dry sinks or grain bins with flat tops to provide a work area on top and storage below. Hang open shelves above them to store everyday items including dishes, glasses and linens, or opt for a vintage wooden plate rack to display your dishes when they're not in use. Choose pieces in relationship to the size of your kitchen so you don't overwhelm it. Because these kitchen items are handcrafted they come in a variety of sizes and finishes, although you can order them specially made by a cabinet maker.

4. Go for wooden counters. Highlight them with a punched tin or weathered brick backsplash. A less expensive option is laminate manufactured to resemble wood.

5. Display vintage or reproduction crocks on the counter. Use them to corral cooking implements such as mixing spoons and spatulas. Choose crocks that are properly-sized for your kitchen. They come in all sizes and a variety of colors and patterns. Store dry goods such as flour, pasta, sugar and cereal in vintage Mason jars. These items give the kitchen a primitive look so avoid cluttering the counter with too many other things.

6. Opt for a farmer's sink. They come in a variety of sizes so buy one that won't take up too much counter space.

7. Store items such as wooden bowls and baskets on top of your cabinets. They add a primitive touch while not taking up valuable counter space.

8. Install a wooden beam on the ceiling. Hang dried flowers, herbs and baskets from the beam.

Hang a wrought iron chandelier above the sink. Choose one that isn't too big for the space.

Tags: come variety, come variety sizes, counter space, They come, variety sizes

Build The Laura Ingall'S Cabin

The "Little House" books by Laura Ingalls Wilder are among the most popular children's classics. The books and television program that followed describe a child's life on the American frontier during the 19th century. Laura Ingalls and her family lived in many houses over the years, but she described her first house in particularly great detail. This house, located in the woods outside of Pepin, Wisconsin, is the main setting for the first of Wilder's books "Little House in the Big Woods." You can build a model of this house (20 inches on each side), based on the description Wilder gives.

Instructions

1. Measure out 20 inches for each side of the base for your model. The cabin should have a square base, which you can draw out on a sheet of paper.

2. Glue four 20-inch flat pieces of wood into in a square, following your pattern. This will make base of the cabin.

3. Build the floor of the cabin by laying the large craft sticks flat on top of your wood base. Glue them at the ends to that base. You will need about 20 to 30 craft sticks, depending on their width. The floors in the Ingalls' cabin were made of flat but rough wood, uncovered except for the occasional bear skin rug.

4. Build the outer walls of the house using the 20-inch natural sticks, placed on top of one another. Use a small saw to cut notches in the ends of the sticks so that they can interlock. Add wood glue to the notches for added stability. The outer walls should reach about 15 inches in height.

5. Build the interior rooms of the house with craft sticks. You need 1 wall on the lower floor, dividing the cabin into a smaller bedroom and a larger kitchen/sitting room. Glue the craft sticks on their narrow ends, so the flat sides make the wall. The wall should be about 10 inches high. Glue craft sticks horizontally across this interior wall to build the attic floor. You will need about 40 craft sticks in total for this step.

6. Cut 1-square-inch window in the bedroom and two 1-square-inch windows in the big room. The cabin door is in the big room. Make the door with a flat, 6-by-2-inch piece of wood. Glue small loops of string to the top and bottom of the door, and glue the other end to the wall to simulate leather hinges.

7. Glue craft sticks to the top of the house for the roof. Attach the bottom end to the top of the wall, and angle the craft sticks upward to meet each other at a point. Glue the craft sticks together in this shape. You will need about 30 craft sticks for the roof. The Ingalls' cabin needed the slanted roof so that the snow of the Wisconsin winters could slide off.

Tags: craft sticks, Glue craft, Glue craft sticks, about craft, about craft sticks, need about

Decorating Ideas For Bistro Tables

Bistros are common on the streets of Paris.

The word "bistro" is a term that is commonly used to describe a Parisian-style small and laid-back eatery. Bistros generally offer affordable and casual meals, such as croque monsieur sandwiches, omelets, grilled salmon and potato and leek soup. For those who are looking to decorate quintessentially French bistro tables, several ideas are available. Does this Spark an idea?

Pub Tables

Classic pub or bistro tables are ideal for recreating the ambiance of an authentic Parisian bistro. The tables should be between 35 and 36 inches inches in length. For pub tables, wooden tops can provide a laid-back and relaxed feel. As for chairs, bistros often utilize high counter stools that are between 24 and 26 inches in length. These high tables and chairs work well in smaller and often crowded dining spaces, including bustling bistro restaurants.

Tablecloths

One of the major components for properly decorating a bistro table is the tablecloth. For a vibrant, lively Parisian feel, classic red checkered tablecloths should easily do the trick. However, many other suitable choices are available, including solid, tiled, threaded, pin dotted, marble checked, striped and plaid tablecloths. For an old time feel, tablecloths that are made out of antique advertisements can also be helpful, preferably if ads in the French language are available. Since bistros tend to get a lot of traffic, durable and tough materials like vinyl are preferable for the tablecloths.

Flatware

Flatware is a necessity for any dining table but also can add an aesthetically pleasing touch. For decorating a bistro table, it is helpful to seek flatware that has a classic yet modern vibe. Shiny stainless steel is useful for everyday use at a bistro; however, for a more elegant look, satin finishes can go a long way. To achieve a sleek French flair, flatware with paddle-shaped handles is recommended. Look for spoon bowls that are particularly oversized and round.

Candles

Candles often are the ideal finishing touch for decorating a traditional bistro table. Lightly fragrant candles are advisable, although it is important that the scent is not too strong as to overpower the food that is served at the bistro. Seek candles that are inside of classic containers, including glass tumblers and tins with transparent lids. Some suitable fragrance ideas for bistros include black cassis, lavender, pine, cloves, cherry blossoms, green apples, sandalwood, French tulips, citrus, gardenias, nutmeg and hyacinths.

Tags: bistro table, bistro tables, between inches, decorating bistro, decorating bistro table, inches length

Styles Of Outdoor Fences

A snow-covered open-post fence.

Fences can be a safety or privacy feature that is both utilitarian and aesthetically pleasing. Gated fences with locks can be used to keep children in a yard or protected from a pool area. Decorative garden fences in varying heights and types of wood can be used depending upon your needs. Does this Spark an idea?

Wrought-iron fence

A snow-covered wrought-iron fence.

Black, thick wrought-iron fencing can add an element of sophistication to any landscape while providing security. Wrought iron fencing is sturdy and can be simple or highly ornate.

Wire fence

A chain link fence along a field.

Also called chain-link fencing, is among the least-expensive types of security fencing and is easy to install. Each section of fencing is separated by metal posts.

Picket fence

A staple of the American suburb, the picket fence can be made of wood or vinyl. Thin, four-inch wide slats of wood or vinyl slats are punctuated by wood or vinyl posts. Often fitted with a gate, the picket fence is stylish fencing that can work for nearly any landscaping treatment.

Trellis

The open-weave trellis fence is great for allowing plants such as sweet peas, trumpet vine, hops and other vines to grow which will produce a garden atmosphere while simultaneously providing the security needs that a fence lends.

Stockade fence / wood-panel fencing

A moss-covered stockade fence.

Stockade fencing is a series of wood panels set between posts. The panels are most often placed close together, creating a wall-like effect and are a type of privacy fencing as the posts and panels are six- to eight-feet tall.

Chicken Wire

Most often used for animal pens or gardens, chicken-wire fencing is an inexpensive way to separate fenced-in features on a property.

Ranch fencing

Ranch style fencing

Positioned low and originally designed to keep ranch animals enclosed, ranch fencing consists of wood posts with interlocking crossbeams.

Tags: wood vinyl, picket fence, posts panels, providing security

Make Wall Shelves

Wall shelves decrease room clutter

Wall shelves can increase available storage area and clean up a room fast by eliminating clutter. Wall shelves come in handy for displaying collections, trophies, books, and music or movies. In the bathroom, a wall shelf is indispensable for candles, potpourri, and air freshener. You will soon be wondering how you ever managed to stay organized without your wall shelves. How do you make wall shelves? Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the available space on the wall where you want to make wall shelves.

2. Purchase boards that are already sanded and finished to fit the area. For a bedroom, kitchen, or living room boards that are 4-feet-long and 8-inches wide may work best. For a bathroom, you may need to use much smaller boards, especially if placing them over the toilet. To save money, purchase lumber, sand it, and finish it yourself.

3. Screw your brackets to one side of the board using the 1/2-inch screws. Be sure to align the angle of the bracket with the edge of the board. You will need to place a bracket every 12-to-18 inches under the wall shelf to support it.

4. Place the level on top of the shelf. Have another person hold the shelf while you level it against the wall. Put one screw in each end bracket once you have the shelf leveled. Then screw in the remainder of the one or two-inch screws to secure the wall shelf.

Tags: wall shelf, Wall shelves, boards that, clutter Wall, clutter Wall shelves

Day Bed Set Care Instructions

A day bed can dress up your home, becoming the focal point of a living room or a relaxing spot in your sun room. A wrought-iron day bed can bring charm and beauty to the home, while a wicker day bed can bring a touch of fun. But no matter what type of day bed you choose, it is important to care for those day-bed accessories properly. Does this Spark an idea?

Choose Your Colors

A day bed provides a place to relax and unwind. Many homeowners love to place their day beds in a sunny part of the home, or perhaps even in a custom-designed sun room or patio enclosure. This placement poses some challenges for the care of the day bed and its coverings. Strong sunlight can cause dark colors to fade surprisingly fast, so choose lighter colors if your day bed will get lots of sun. Light colors like canary yellow and powder blue will not show the obvious fading that darker colors will. You can still use darker colors if you like, but remove those coverings during sunny periods.

Read the Fabric Care Label

Following the recommended care instructions will help that fabric last and retain its beauty. Different types of materials will require different types of care. If anything is spilled on the fabric, wipe it up at once. After the spill has been cleaned, use a commercial stain stick to cover the area and prevent the stain from setting in, then launder or dry clean the piece as soon as possible. If you plan to wash your day bed bedding at home, use warm water and a mild detergent. Washing the bedding by hand is usually best, but you can place them in the washing machine. After the bed clothes have been washed, they should be carefully laid out and allowed to air dry. This can take some time, so it is a good idea to keep several sets of day bed coverings on hand and rotate them as needed.

Consider Professional Cleaning

You can launder your day bed covering on your own, but it may be better to have those pieces professionally cleaned. Washing heavy pieces can be very hard on home washing machines, and it could cause the belt on the washer to wear out prematurely. That means that the couple of dollars it takes to wash those bed clothes at a commercial laundromat may actually save you money in the long run. Some coverings will do just fine with machine washing, while others demand careful hand washing or special care. This will help those linens last and ensure they retain their good looks.

Tags: colors like, darker colors, will help

Definition Of Garnet

Garnets come in a wide range of colors.

The garnet is a popular gemstone most known for its popular dark red coloring. However, a garnet comes in almost every spectrum of the rainbow and has other uses besides adorned in jewelry. Garnets are a hard and durable stone that have industrial uses as well. The garnet dates all the way back to the 13th century.

Name Origin

Garnet comes from the latin word granatium which means a pomegranate. The small, red crystals of the garnet resembled pomegranate seeds. Albertus Magnus, a German theologian and philosopher first proposed the name garnet to mineralogists in the 13th century. Today, garnet can be referred to as almandine, andradite, demantoid, grossularite, hessonite, pyrope, rhodolite, tsasvorite and several others.

Chemical Composition

A garnet is a composition of several but similar minerals and silicates. Different varieties of garnet include iron, aluminum, magnesium or chromium ions and some even have a calcium element. The garnet ranges from six to 7.6 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Due to their durability, they are often used as abrasives.

Sources

The garnet was originally found in the United States. Idaho, New York and Montana are the only states today that produce garnet for industrial use. Internationally, several countries including Australia, China and India including several other countries in Africa export large amounts of garnet.

Color

Garnet is most popularly known as a red gemstone. However, garnet exists in many colors including green, yellow and orange. Blue is the only color a garnet does not come in.

Associations & Care

Garnet is the birthstone for the month of January. It is also the gemstone for the second and sixth wedding anniversary. The gem can be cut into any shape including round, oval or cushion cuts, and can be easily cared for with mild soap and a toothbrush to scrub.

Tags: 13th century, However garnet

Scroll Wrought Iron

S-scrolls and C-scrolls in metal artwork

From cathedrals to condominiums, beginner blacksmiths who master the skill of making wrought iron scrolls have the sought after talent for historic preservation to modern artwork. Neither brute strength nor modern machinery is required to produce the scrolls found in most of the world's finest metal work. Blacksmiths work with basic equipment and most blacksmith's tools can be made by the blacksmiths themselves or purchased in a variety of tool stores including flea markets and scrape yards. Planning for the equipment and location to forge metal scrolls entails little more than what would be needed for a barbecue pit. Small shops and homemade forges make wrought iron scrolls that inspire beauty and elegance by enveloping the three basic scroll shapes; single or spiral, the S-scroll, and the C-scroll. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Scroll Wrought Iron

1. Cut metal to length. Be sure to cut several more than needed to allow for practice and one to use as a pattern. The pattern and notes can be used for future reference for other projects.

2. Tending a forge fire.

Light the forge.

3. Heat wrought iron to yellow for scrolling.

Heat one end of stock in forge until metal is orange to yellow in color.

4. Brush slag off hot stock with wire brush.

5. Dressing and finishing the scroll tip.

Dress the scroll tip by upsetting the stock. One end at a time, hold the stock with the tongs and place the end of the metal one inch over the offside edge of the anvil while hitting the end of the metal to drive the hot metal back into itself. The ends of the stock may be further dressed to different shapes depending on the look desired in the center of each scroll. A finished tip is an indicator that it was handmade and not fabricated.

6. Reheat stock; using the offside edge or the horn of the anvil, hammer the first 1/2 inch (1 cm) downward to start the scroll. Turn the stock over with the bent tip facing upward and lightly hammer down onto the tip using a brushing type stroke to close the tip of the scroll.

7. Reheat the stock and place on anvil with the scroll tip facing upward and off the far edge. Lightly hammer the back side of the stock upward and toward yourself producing a smooth curve without flat spots.

8. Reheat stock as needed and continue lightly hammering the backside of the scroll to produce a graceful curve for 1-1/4 rotations, taking care not to over bend the stock.

9. Repeat this process for the opposite end of stock to make C or S-scrolls. For C-scrolls, hold the completed scroll downward with tongs while heating and hammering the opposite scroll; and for S-scrolls hold the scroll upward.

10. Flatten the finished scroll by placing it flat on the anvil face and lightly hammering raised areas.

Tags: Reheat stock, facing upward, iron scrolls, lightly hammering, more than, offside edge

Put Plant Hangers On Siding

Plant hangers can add beauty and life to your home. Accent your doorways, windows and other exterior features of your home with potted plants using plant hangers. Because exterior siding is a superficial covering over wood sheathing, you can install plant hangers over the siding anywhere on the exterior with the proper preparation. Even though there is no need to find a stud because you'll be screwing into the wood sheathing, you will need to drill pilot holes for the screw so you do not damage the siding. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select a location on the siding to locate the plant hanger, for example, one on either side of a doorway. Hold the plant hanger against the siding in the desired location.

2. Press the point of an awl into the center of each mounting hole on the hanger and into the siding material to mark it.

3. Insert a pilot bit that is slightly smaller than the included screw shank diameter into a drill. Drill a hole approximately the length of the screws into each awl-marked spot on the siding.

4. Align the mounting holes in the hanger with the pilot holes and drive the included screws through the mounting holes into the siding to fasten the hanger securely to the exterior of your home.

Tags: your home, into siding, mounting holes, pilot holes, plant hanger, wood sheathing

Sand Cast Metal

So you're ready to start making useful metal molds at home, but you're wondering do it? Whether you are looking to make parts for a repair or to cast metal pieces for an art project, you can create just about any shape using a sand mold, and it can all be done at home or in a studio. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Setting up the mold

1. Fill the two casting flasks with green sand. The sand is a mixture of silica, sand and clay, with a few other additives. It helps to hold the shape of the mold better than traditional sand.

2. Press the item you are making a mold of halfway into the sand in one of the molding flasks. Pat the sand around it and add a little more if necessary, but do not overfill the flask. If you are creating a design of your own, carve out its shape as if you have pressed half of the item into the sand. It should represent one half of the completed object.

3. Turn the item over, or imagine what the other half of your mold will look like, and press the half into the sand, or carve it out if that is your preferred method. Add sand and pat it down so it will keep it's shape.

4. In one of the casting flasks, dig a small channel leading to the mold and then dig through the sand until a hole opens on the other side. This hole and the tunnel leading to it should only be a few inches in length, but it can be bigger if desired.

5. Place the two casting flasks together end to end so that the sand meets each other. Press them together and set the mold with the hole facing upwards.

Making the Cast

6. Take enough molten metal to fill the cast and put it in a metal container. The metal will be superheated, so wearing thick gloves or using another safety device is necessary to handle the container. You can melt metal in a furnace or somewhere that can produce a similar amount of heat.

7. Fill the mold with the molten metal by feeding it through the opening in the casting flask. It will feed through the tunnel and into the channel you have carved out before filling mold itself.

8. Let the metal cool and harden. This will take a while, but the actual time depends on the size of your mold and the amount of metal poured into it.

9. When the metal has hardened, pull apart the two casting flasks and break your mold out of the sand. You may have to separate the metal from the cast where the actual cast meets the hardened metal in the channel leading up to it. Now you have a new, perfectly casted object.

Tags: casting flasks, into sand, your mold, cast metal, channel leading, mold with, molten metal

Landscape A Yard In A Mediterranean Style

The Mediterranean style landscape brings to mind lush greenery, trailing flowers, statuary and fountains. It's relaxing and informal, with curving walkways, cooking herbs in terra cotta pots and plenty of red, yellow and pink flowers. Since the Mediterranean region has hot, dry summers, this landscape style is perfect for gardeners who live in draught-ridden areas or who just want low maintenance. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. List the elements you would like to incorporate into your Mediterranean style yard. You might choose a stone walkway, an herb garden, an arbor of climbing roses, statues and a fountain.

2. Observe your yard at different times of the day. You need to know how much sun and shade you have before planting anything.

3. Plan a natural stone walkway throughout your yard. A stone path is typical of Mediterranean gardens because It gives a welcoming feel to visitors.

4. Buy plants and herbs that will grow in your gardening zone. A local garden center can help you decide what will grow well in your area. Plant flowers, evergreens and herbs throughout the yard. And put some in terra cotta pots. Most people put pots on deck and porches, but you can also scatter them throughout your garden for design interest.

5. Build an wooden arbor and cover with climbing roses in all colors.

6. Add water to your Mediterranean landscape. A water garden filled will appropriate plants is a plus. A fountain will give you the peaceful sound of water all day.

7. Attach window boxes to your windows, and fill with foliage and flowers.

Tags: climbing roses, cotta pots, Mediterranean style, stone walkway, terra cotta, terra cotta pots

Tell Ductile Pipe From Cast Iron Pipe

It can be hard to tell the difference between iron and ductile pipe.

Ductile iron pipe is lighter, stronger, and more durable than cast iron. The difference between cast iron and ductile iron is the graphite form. In ductile iron, the graphite form is spheroidal, or nodular; in cast iron, it is in a flake form. The spheroidal or nodular form of graphite found in ductile iron is accomplished by adding an inoculant, usually magnesium, to the molten iron during the manufacture process. Ductile iron can be identified in a laboratory setting by using a spectrograph to examine its exact composition, or by using a tensile test. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Examine the pipe. Look at how weathered it is. Ductile pipe was first created in the 1950's. It was first sold commercially in the 1960s, with most installations being done in the 1970s or later. If the pipe is older than that, then it is cast iron. Cast iron pipes have been around much longer than ductile pipes, which eventually replaced them. Cast iron pipes, in a configuration similar to ductile pipes, have been used actively in North America for at least one hundred fifty years. Another indication as to whether a section of pipe is ductile or cast is its smoothness. Cast iron is generally smoother than ductile. Most ductile is produced with a noticeable "peen" pattern, as if someone had been beating it with a hammer.

2. Look for markings on the face of the bell flange. Most ductile pipes have the letters "D I" or the word "Ductile" cast directly into the face of the bell flange. No cast iron pipes have these markings.

3. Look for markings on the outside of the pipe. Both cast iron and ductile pipe are painted with one or more class markings at the factory when they are produced.Cast iron has a class number in the 20s. Ductile class numbers have gone through several revisions. When ductile pipes were first introduced, they were given class id markings between "2" and "6." Later, in about the 1970s, a thickness class was introduced. Ductile pipes produced at this time bore markings from between "50" and "56." Later on, in the 1990s, pipes began being marked to indicate how many pounds of pressure per square inch they could withstand. Most ductile iron pipes are created to withstand 150 psi to 350 psi depending upon the thickness of the pipe.

4. Make a laboratory identification by using a spectrograph to examine the exact composition or by using a tensile test. Cast iron has an ultimate strength of 20,000 psi. The ultimate tensile strength of ductile iron is above 60,000 psi, the yield strength is 42,000 psi. During the testing ductile iron will elongate by about 10 per cent before breaking. This test result sequence is frequently written as 60 - 42 - 10.

Tags: ductile iron, ductile pipes, iron pipes, pipes have, cast iron, Cast iron

Iron Fence Arch Styles

Designs vary with iron fences.

Iron fences are used to make a decorative statement in your yard or garden. There are countless styles to choose from, depending on your design theme and decor. Many iron fences contain arches as part of their fence design. The fence typically connects to a gate or larger arch entryway. Arch styles vary from a few basic finials or post heads to elaborate designs that are sure to catch the eye. Does this Spark an idea?

Gothic

If you are interested in detailed fencing for your garden that contains intricate designs, gothic style may be your preference. It embodies a style all its own, with each picket and post arching to an incline, making a point. The gothic-style arch is prominent in old homes and buildings from the early 1900s. The design can also be found in courtyards and cemeteries and some public garden locations. Gothic fence arch styles are a welcoming addition to a rose garden or wildflower garden and accompany paver brick walks nicely.

Rounded

For a more simplistic look for your iron fence, a rounded-arch style matches well with most home designs. Pickets and posts arch to the top with a half-rounded edge that serves as a more modest and contemporary design. A rounded-arch style is welcoming for the front perimeter of the home and blends well with either a brick wall or vinyl siding home. A rounded-arch fence also provides a secure area for a pool perimeter, as long as there is a locked gate attached.

Ornate

If you are looking to add a lot of depth to your landscape, an ornate fence will be the center focus. Ornate designs and shapes can be custom-made based on your preferences. Some have arches in the shape of fans, scrolls, crosses or spikes that are very detailed. Ornate fences have diamond-shaped posts or triangle shapes to highlight the corners or end of the fence before the gate. Ornate fences are an investment for property owners who appreciate the architecture of fine craftsmanship.

Single Design

Some iron fence arches offer a single-arch design over an entryway to a garden or front sidewalk. Single-design arches have a variety of styles that can highlight your outdoor preferences. Examples include a scrolled arch designed for outdoor or indoor weddings. Greenery is often applied to the arch to create a focal point. A half-heart designed arch is an appropriate piece to include as a photography backdrop for a prom dance.

Tags: iron fences, Ornate fences, rounded-arch style, well with

Exotic Style Decorating Ideas From Around The World

In decorating your home, you needn't feel limited by regional styles, nor must you stick with an aesthetic representing one country. Instead, many are embracing the "decorating beyond borders" approach, creating a fusion of exotic styles. Brighten up a forgotten corner with some brilliant Indian textiles, or transform a wall into a gallery with a collection of painted masks or wall scrolls. If time and budget allow, you can do a full home makeover integrating various exotic decorating ideas from around the world. Does this Spark an idea?

Features

Indigenous handicrafts define many international decors. A vintage Indian sari in bright colors with hand-beaded trim makes a plain table, window or bedspread exotic. Wood furniture gets special treatment in many world cultures. Mexican rustic pieces may feature wrought-iron or glass details. French armoires often have hand-painted trim or pictures on the doors. Intricate engraving and carving typifies Moroccan coffee tables. Look for artisan touches in international furnishings and accessories, such as hand-painted tile, hammered tin frames, distressed finishes, gold inlays, hand joinery or unique regional materials.

Function

An international decor ideally marries form and function in an exotic way. A simple mirror becomes regal thanks to an ornate gold frame set with colored crystals or a border of Moroccan tiles. A light fixture adds color and dimension to a room when covered with an Asian silk shade or an Indonesian parasol. A patio receives a bit of shade thanks to a canopy of Kente cloth, a tropical mosquito net or a palm leaf umbrella that recalls a Tiki Bar.

Types

A diversity of exotic international decor trends lets imaginations fly. In Morocco, ornate metalwork and trademark turquoise-and-white tiles make a simple home feel like a palace. In India, bright orange, fuchsia, gold and saffron add visual pop to wall finishes and textiles. Japanese design traditions range from garden architecture such as stone lanterns and meditation pavilions to innovative modular furniture that features hidden storage. Bali earns recognition for teak furniture, hand-painted kites and beautifully crafted shadow puppets. Mexican decor encompasses kitchen counters, sinks and walls filled with brightly painted tiles to kitschy-cool vinyl tablecloths with prints of tropical flowers and fruits.

Palette

Exotic decors often eschew the bland palette of four white walls. An accent wall in mango orange or lime green adds a tropical element, while a tile mural can transform a kitchen or garden into a Tuscan villa. Textured wallpaper in ornate patterns gives a home the look of a Paris salon or a crumbling Spanish hacienda. Even in more neutral surroundings, international accessories can add splashes of color and patterns. Arrange silk throw pillows in paisley or French toile around a low ottoman to serve as a setting for sipping Turkish coffee. Fill a display shelf with Italian Majolica pottery, Oaxacan carved and painted creatures or Chinese Buddha statues for a thematic display.

Warning

The most common trap in decorating international-style is that your home may come to resemble an import store. Fans of gypsy caravan-style or bohemian modernism embrace this resemblance, stacking tables and walls as if they are international markets. Others prefer a more subtle approach to decorating, setting a table with a single eye-catching vase or using textiles from around the world as accents for a more neutral backdrop.

Tags: international decor, more neutral, your home

Plant A Tree With A Pvc Watering Tube

Plant a Tree With a PVC Watering Tube

The location where a tree is planted determines the temperature and moisture conditions it is exposed to. Unprotected trees in windy areas are prone to drying out. Trees planted against south-facing walls have much drier and warmer conditions than exposed trees. Check your property's microclimates and your tree's cultural requirements to select the appropriate planting spot. Trees absorb most of their moisture through fine roots in the top 18 inches of soil. Help trees become established after planting by installing supplemental PVC watering tubes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Make Tubes and Prepare the Site

1. Cut four 18-inch sections from the 10-foot, perforated PVC pipe. Discard the belled end. File or otherwise smooth the edges of the ends.

2. Glue caps on one end of each section. Wrap the sections with screening to keep gravel and dirt from entering the holes. Overlap the wrap by 3 inches and secure with zip ties.

3. Test your tree site soil for drainage, as good drainage is essential for new trees. Water your chosen spot well the day before planting.

4. Dig a hole twice as deep as your root ball and three times as wide. Mix 1 part compost to 1 part dug soil. Fill the bottom half of the hole with soil mix and firm it in.

Plant Your Tree and Install Tubes

5. Remove your tree from its nursery container by cutting away the container. For ball-and-burlap plants remove the burlap wrapping. Bare root trees will not have coverings. Prune off broken roots, but do not prune back top growth.

6. Place your tree in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is just above ground level. Spread matted or circling roots. Install the PVC tubes at four equally-spaced points around the hole against the edges. Make sure the top 4 inches of the tubes are above ground level.

7. Add soil backfill halfway up the hole, firm it in and water to remove air pockets.

8. Build a 4-inch high berm (soil wall) around the filled hole with compost, and a 2 inch high inner berm 2 inches out from the tree trunk. Add a 2-inch layer of mulch between the berms.

9. Water your tree immediately by slowly filling the berm and tubes. Use the remaining four caps to cover the tubes when filled.

10. Fill the berm twice to make sure the ground has absorbed enough water. Surface watering is necessary to promote active root growth. Continue regular watering once a week throughout the growing season.

Tags: your tree, above ground, above ground level, ground level, hole with, Plant Tree, Plant Tree With

Identify Drapery Rod Styles

There are tons of different styles of curtain rods. Decorators and homeowners really have a lot to choose from when deciding on window treatment hangers. Identifying all those types of drapery rods and deciding which one is best for your windows can seem overwhelming to someone who's new to decorating. But there is hope. Take notes and learn about many of the different types of drapery rods available. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Identify magnetic drapery rods by their unique magnets. Use these rods in odd places where there are metal window sashings. Easily install them to metal doors or windows by simply placing the magnets where you want them.

2. Find rods that stay in place using tension and you've found a spring tension rod. Use this type of round rod in smaller windows. Install spring tension rods without using screws or any other hardware. Use them to hang a valance or other lightweight curtain inside the window frame.

3. Check for fancy finials at the end of the rod to see if you have a cafe rod. Look for the decorative ends to spruce up your window treatment. Use curtain rod holders for these decorative rods instead of the traditional hardware. Find all different sort of finishes for cafe rods including wood, brass and enamel. Choose from a wide variety of finials for your perfect window treatment. Screw new finials onto the end of your cafe rod to change the look of your decor.

4. Look for shallow mounting brackets that don't come out far from the window casing to determine if it's a sash rod. Use this type of curtain rod on a door or for a sheer or other lightweight curtain so that it hugs close to the window sashing or door.

5. Add depth to your window treatment by using continental rods. Look for widths of 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 inches. They stick out farther from the window casing. Use these rods along with continental rods for a double curtain look.

6. Choose conventional drapery rods for easy installation. Look for narrow, flat metal rods. Hide this type of curtain rod completely in your drapes by covering up the ends of the rods with the pocket of the curtain.

Tags: drapery rods, window treatment, this type, continental rods, from window, from window casing, lightweight curtain

Tuscan Styles

Tuscany includes beautiful cities like Florence as well as pastoral vistas.

The region of Tuscany, Italy, encompasses more than the rural region commonly associated with Tuscany. Located along the coastline northwest of Rome between the Apennine Mountains and the Tyrrhenian Sea, Tuscany includes the cities of Florence, Sienna, Pisa and numerous others. If you embrace the entire Tuscan region for design inspiration, you can expand your definition of Tuscan styles beyond the rural countryside. Does this Spark an idea?

Architectural Renaissance

Repeat arched shapes for elements of Tuscan style.

The cities of Florence, Pisa and Sienna embody the architecture of the Renaissance. Base your Tuscan style on architectural details such as arched windows, doorways and colonnades, along with the repetition of shapes. You can incorporate the classic stone and brick architecture of Tuscany into a room renovation, an outdoor space, a painted wall mural or a stone surface treatment. Consider the concepts of arches and repetition for use in arched window cornices complemented by furniture pieces with arched elements.

Countryside Chic Outdoors

A topiary can mimic the shape of these Tuscan cedar trees.

Whether in the city or countryside, Tuscany has stone retaining walls, tall straight cedars and climbing vines. Bring these elements into your outdoor living space for Tuscan outdoor chic. Don't forget to add fruit trees, hedges and wrought-iron pieces. You can surround your garden with wrought-iron fencing or use a wrought-iron arbor and tall gates to complement stone construction. For a focal point, consider a stone fountain or a wrought-iron cupola perched on top of stone columns.

Artistic Inspiration

Paint into wet plaster for frescoed walls.

Many of the great artists of the Renaissance came from Tuscany. In the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, the work of Italian masters such as Botticelli, Michelangelo or Lorenzo Ghiberti can inspire a fresh direction in a Tuscan-style room. Both Botticelli and Michelangelo worked in fresco, and the idea of painting in wet plaster would adapt well for a living room accent wall, a panel in a den or to restore an old plaster wall in a vintage home. Lorenzo Ghiberti made stained glass windows, and you can bring the colors of the Tyrrhenian Sea into your home by hanging a stained glass panel in shades of blue and green.

Tastes of Tuscany

Spice up your kitchen decor with inspiration from Tuscan cuisine.

Use the tastes of Tuscan cuisine to design a kitchen that satiates the senses like a hearty country dinner. Enjoy your meal with family and friends around a solid rustic table surrounded by chairs painted the color of baked red peppers. Grab a pot from a wrought-iron pot rack and serve braised rabbit on brightly colored majolica dinnerware painted with fruit motifs. Prepare the meal on a counter top the color of crispy bread crust, and serve coffee in toasted-cheese colored mugs. Season your kitchen with a sprinkling of spinach green accent pieces.

Tags: Botticelli Michelangelo, cities Florence, into your, Lorenzo Ghiberti, stained glass, Tuscan cuisine, Tuscan style

Make A White Headboard

Headboards are focal points in your bedroom and help dictate the style of room's décor. White headboards have impact in a contemporary or shabby chic style décor. White headboards also work well in children's rooms, as they can easily transition into a wide variety of themes as your child grows. One of the easiest ways to make a white headboard is to attach a vinyl fence panel to the wall behind your bed. White vinyl fencing comes in a variety of sizes and styles, from picket to privacy. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select a panel that best suits the scale of your bedroom and that fits behind your mattress. Depending on the style you select, vinyl fence panels range from 3 to 8 feet wide, not including the posts. Fence posts range from 1 1/2 to 4 inches wide. Privacy panels are taller, up to 8 feet, and picket styles begin at 3 feet high and may have a decorative shape such as a scalloped top line.

2. Insert the fence panel into the fence posts. Stand the fencing against the wall where you wish to place your headboard.

3. Locate the studs in the wall behind your bed. Your fence posts will stand on the floor, but it is safer to attach them to the wall as they are not attached to the bed.

4. Measure the height of your fence post. Plan to install the wall hangers anywhere on the bottom half of each post.

5. Drill pilot holes into the stud where you will place the hangers. Depending on the type of wall hanger you are using, you may need to fit a wood shim between the wall and the hanger. A wood shim will help to keep the fence post level vertically. If needed, spray paint the shim white, let it dry and place it between the hanger and the wall.

6. Attach the other section of your wall hanger to the fence posts. Attach the posts to the wall.

Tags: behind your, wall hanger, fence panel, fence post, fence posts

Black Wrought Iron Wall Decor

Black wrought iron can make any area in your home look classy or antiquelike.

Whether your decorating scheme is Old World style, Mediterranean or modern, you can use black wrought iron accents to complete the look of any room in your home. A number of items and accent ideas can be incorporated into your existing pieces to create a look you'll love to show off. Does this Spark an idea?

Size

If you're decorating a small space with black wrought iron, use items like candleholders and picture frames to adorn your home office or hallway. If you've got more space to work with, a decorative wrought iron covering for the front door, or a black wrought iron coat rack that can be hung on the wall, is ideal.

Types

There are plenty of black wrought iron wall decor types that add just the right touch to the room you're decorating. For instance, you can display a large mirror trimmed with black wrought iron in the dining room to serve as the focal piece, or display a set of sconces made of black wrought iron in the living room for a romantic look.

Considerations

Black wrought iron looks great against a number of colors, so it may be a good idea to paint the accent wall in your living room, dining room or bedroom to "match" the wrought iron. For instance, if you're using large iron pieces like picture frames or mirrors, painting the wall in a rich chocolate or burnt orange color will make the iron accents even more appealing.

Tags: wrought iron, black wrought, your home, black wrought, Black wrought

Install A Corrugated Metal Privacy Fence

Corrugated metal creates a simple privacy screen for residential properties.

In many neighborhoods, houses are built very close together or close to the street -- which can make privacy a concern when a resident is trying to enjoy summertime outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, entertaining or simply relaxing. In such instances, it may be necessary to construct privacy screens for parts of a yard to keep prying eyes away from your family's activities. Corrugated metal is an inexpensive material that you can use as a simple and stylish privacy screen for whatever area of your property requires some seclusion. Corrugated metal will last for years with a minimum of maintenance. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the area to determine how many 4-by-8-foot corrugated panels you'll need to cover the area.

2. Determine post placement to hold the corrugated panels. The posts will be positioned 4 feet apart to hold the panels.

3. Dig the post holes to a depth recommended by local fence companies. This depth generally depends on the area in which you live -- colder areas require deeper holes -- and will determine how long the posts need to be cut.

4. Fill in the hole with 6 inches of gravel.

5. Set the posts into the concrete and brace them with lumber and rope.

6. Fill the hole with the premixed, fast-setting concrete. Allow the concrete to cure for at least four hours.

7. Cut the 2-by-4-inch lumber for the frame of the panels. Cut 2 pieces to fit along the sides of the panels and 2 pieces to fit along the top and bottom edges of the panels. Use the router to cut a groove in each of the 2-by-4-inch pieces to hold the corrugated panels. The size of the groove will be determined by the gauge of the corrugated material.

8. Stain the wooden frames to a desired color. Allow the stain to dry thoroughly.

9. Apply a polyurethane clear coat to protect the wood surface and allow the wood to dry.

10. Paint the panels with galvanized paint to protect the surface. Allow the paint to dry completely before handling the panels.

11. Attach the frame to the panels using galvanized screws.

Tags: corrugated panels, Corrugated metal, Fill hole, Fill hole with, frame panels, hold corrugated, hold corrugated panels

Get Rid Of The Old Smell From Antique Furniture

Remove old smells from antique furniture carefully to protect the surface.

Antique furniture acquires an old smell over the years. The musty smell is the result of dust, dirt and even mildew that has formed on the furniture. The odors stick to the furniture and soak into the fabric or wood. Releasing the odors with items that you have around the home restores the antique furniture close to its original condition so that you can enjoy its beauty without the stench. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Take the furniture outdoors to clean it just in case it contains loose mold spores. If possible, leave the furniture outdoors for 24 to 48 hours to air out. Place the furniture in a shady location because the sun fades fabrics.

2. Vacuum the surface of the furniture with an upholstery attachment to remove the spores. Remove cushions and pillows, and vacuum all cracks and crevices.

3. Combine 2 tbsp. of mild liquid dish soap with 1 quart of warm water in a bucket. Dampen a washcloth in the soapy water, and wipe the surface of the furniture quickly to prevent the water from soaking into the fabric or wood. Rinse the surface with a damp washcloth, and let the furniture air dry.

4. Clean wood surfaces with 8 tbsp. of washing soda mixed with 1 gallon of water to remove any foreign debris that could be the culprit of the odor. Rinse the solution off the wood with a damp washcloth.

5. Cover the furniture with baking soda to absorb the odors. Let the baking soda set overnight, then vacuum it off the furniture carefully.

Tags: antique furniture, baking soda, damp washcloth, fabric wood, furniture carefully

Build Patio Tables

PVC Table Base

In order to reflect your personal tastes and styles, you need customized items when building a patio table. This is easy to accomplish with PVC pipe. Decorate your patio with PVC pipe furniture. PVC pipe patio tables and/or end tables are sturdy and durable, and they weather well. With this simple design, you can make any size table by increasing or reducing the overall size of the table. It's also easy to change the tabletop texture. You'll be able to create multiple tables in various styles and sizes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Directions

1. Attach a T connector into each end of one 4-foot length of PVC pipe. Repeat this step with the second 4-foot length of pipe but set this second one aside for the moment.

2. Attach a 2-foot length of PVC pipe into each end of the T connectors on both ends of the 4-foot pipe. Your base will look like a capital I.

3. Attach an elbow into all four ends. This is the base of the table.

4. Attach a 3-foot length of pipe in the top hole of each elbow.

5. Attach a T connector at the top of the 3-foot section of pipe.

6. With the second 4-foot length of pipe you set aside in Step 1, attach the ends of the 2-foot sections into the side holes of the T connectors. This step creates the table base.

7. Attach end caps into the top holes of the four T connectors.

8. Lay the Plexiglas inside the T connectors. You can either leave it loose for easy movement or glue it to the cross brace underneath the glass.

Tags: length pipe, 4-foot length, 4-foot length pipe, Attach connector, into each, second 4-foot, second 4-foot length

Why Are Pots & Pans Round

Pots and pans have changed over time.

Round pots and pans have evolved along with changes in our cooking methods and forms of cooking. Even highly specialized pieces still bear the basic features of the earliest cookware. Does this Spark an idea?

History

Skins, animal bladders, gourds and woven baskets were used as early forms of cookware. The rounded shapes influenced later designs.

Significance

The mass and shape of a rounded pot allowed heat to spread more evenly to all sides of the cooking surface from the heat source, usually a fire, below.

Evolution

Just as flat bottoms have evolved to fit modern stoves, rounded pots were well-adapted to suspension over a fire. According to The Rusty Pot, with the development of cast iron cookware and the cauldron form, legs were added to allow pots to sit on the ground or in the fire without tipping.

Function

Rounded pans better fit some foods, allowing cooks to fit more in the pan. Flared edges on round pans make pouring and transferring liquids easier without spilling.

Benefits

Round-shaped cookware provides better access to food for stirring, blending and serving, as round pots do not have corners where food can become trapped.

Tags: have evolved, pans have

Rustic Window Treatment Ideas

There are many wonderful ways to bring the beauty of rustic design to windows.

The term "rustic" brings many images to mind. For some it may conjure the image of a cabin by the lake, a mountain chalet, or a seaside cottage. For others, rustic decor is a way to bring the countryside to a small urban apartment. Windows are a great way to explore new design options, or carry a theme through a room. Rustic curtains can be a low cost way to provide insulation around windows. Lighter fabrics can reflect light and heat, cooling a room in summer. Window treatments can also provide added security when they prevent outsiders from seeing into a home. Does this Spark an idea?

Curtains

Rustic curtains fall into several categories. Full length draperies work best on large expansive windows or wide walls. To give a rustic feel, look for long draperies with large prints: big block flannels or scenery panels that give an outdoor feel to any room. Rustic fabrics often feature natural colors; maple-leaf red, sand, brown, cream. Sheers can be used under drapes or, for a lighter look, can be used alone. They give a breezy look that is often used in cabins or beach houses. When using drapes or sheers, forgo tassel or tailored tie backs. Instead opt for natural looks, dried flowers or vines, curved wood, or even wrought iron.

But nothing says country like short and sweet cafe curtains. They work well for smaller windows, or for the upper part of glass paned doors. Cafe curtains can be made from drapery fabric, printed panels, sheers or even lace.

Shutters

Shutters are framed wooden, or wooden-look, blinds. They don't need to cover the entire window. For an elegant indoor rustic treatment, use pine wooden shutters at the bottom of a large window, and white eyelet lace cafe curtains for the top. Some shutters have movable louvers that can allow, direct or block light into the room.

Shutters can be used outside or inside a building. When usable shutters are attached outside, they not only give the house a more rustic look, but, as in the case of a weekend cabin, they can be closed and latched to provide added security to the building. While there are some standard sizes, shutters often need to be made to fit. This can add expense for customization.

Valances

Sometimes drapes or shutters can be too expensive, or too room-darkening. Sometimes, especially in a beautiful rustic landscape, the designer doesn't want anything to obstruct the view. A valance is a small decorative window topper and can be used with or without curtains, drapes or shutters.

A valence may be constructed out of a printed panel, lace, denim, or any fabric that coordinates with the room. But a valence can also be less formal. Drape a light-weight fabric over a long, natural branch or wrought-iron rod and hang it over the window. Or forgo the rod; bunch dried flowers with ribbons and hang them over the window.

Tags: added security, drapes shutters, dried flowers, over window, provide added, provide added security

Prevent Mold On Patio Chair Cushions

Mold is a type of fungus.

Mold is a type of fungus that tends to grow in areas that are excessively damp such as waterlogged patio cushions. Mold can give your cushions a musty smell and will cover them in black or green stains. Over time mold can actually deteriorate your patio cushions. Avoid this by cleaning mold as soon as you notice it. There are several ways to prevent mold from growing on the patio chair cushions. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the patio cushions whenever there is rain or other types of precipitation. Moist conditions hasten mold's growth, so almost any substance that is wet is susceptible to mold.

2. Dry cushions thoroughly whenever they become wet. Dry the cushions thoroughly in your dryer. If your cushions cannot be dried in the clothes dryer, dry them with your hair dryer.

3. Spray fabric waterproof spray onto the fabric when it is dry, and let it dry completely. You can purchase fabric waterproofers at camping or outdoor supply stores. Waterproofing sprays leave a residue on outdoor fabrics that causes water to bead on the surface of the material rather than soaking into it.

Tags: patio cushions, cushions thoroughly, Mold type, Mold type fungus, type fungus, your cushions

Tips For Cleaning Wrought Iron

Cleaning wrought iron can range from easy maintenance to sanding and painting.

Wrought iron is an attractive material used for decorative and security purposes around many homes. Although wrought iron can last for decades with minimal upkeep, it must be maintained to keep it looking clean and help extend its longevity. Following some basic tips on cleaning wrought iron will help your decorative metal look good for as long as you have it. Does this Spark an idea?

Keep Rust Off

Wrought iron, by nature, will develop rust eventually. Rust will weaken the metal and ruin its looks. Keeping your wrought iron in good shape will require occasional rust removal. This type of cleaning takes some effort.

Use a wire brush to scrape away the majority of the rust. Some of it is likely to be left behind and may have penetrated deep into the metal. If this is the case, use a rough sandpaper such as 80-grit to sand away the remaining rust, according to HousekeepingChannel.com. Go over the sanded iron again with a finer-grit paper and buff it all out with steel wool. When you have the metal back to this condition, it is ready for protecting and painting.

Rust Inhibitor

While your wrought iron may not have been sealed with a rust inhibitor the first time it was finished, there is no reason not to do it now. Rustproof paints are available at most paint stores and are used as a primer coat before painting on a glossy topcoat. Some rust inhibitors are also gloss enamel and layered over the final coat of paint to seal out the oxidation.

Paint

The better the paint you use, the longer it is likely to last. Using a high-quality exterior paint suitable for use on metal is important. Unless the wrought iron is fairly flat with minimal design curves, making it easy to brush, it is best to use a paint sprayer to cover the wrought iron evenly. Trying to brush intricate designs in wrought iron could end in a mess for the average novice painter.

Never try to seal the iron with a rust inhibitor until the paint has had at least 24 hours to completely dry.

Regular Cleaning

When the rust is gone and the new paint is on the wrought iron, cleaning this material is simple. It is a good idea to keep corrosive buildup off the iron to extend the time it maintains it proper appearance. When the time comes, just use a sponge with warm, soapy water and wipe down the wrought iron on a regular basis. Rinse it with clear water.

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Paint A Wood Chair To Look Like Wrought Iron

Remove the cushion on the wooden chair before applying the wrought iron finish.

Wrought iron furniture counts as a mainstay in many decorating styles like Tuscan decorating. However, not everyone can afford this type of furniture. If you find yourself in this quandary, consider converting a few of your regular chairs into faux wrought iron chairs. You'll paint them using several types of paint, and once done, they'll have the look of wrought iron without the cumbersome weight to go with this metal furniture mainstay. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove any upholstered parts like the seat. If you're working with dining room or kitchen chairs, the process may be a bit easier, since many times the only upholstered part of the chair is the seat itself. Simply remove the seat by removing the screws on the underside before you begin the painting process. If more of the chair is covered with upholstery or it's not possible to remove the seat, cover the upholstery well. Use a pliable material like plastic garbage bags and tape the plastic down tight, leaving the wooden parts that you want to paint exposed.

2. Cover your work area with a tarp. You may need quite a large tarp or several of them if you intend to do several chairs. This will speed the process up, because you won't be waiting for the paint to dry on one chair before you start another one.

3. Spray on the pounded iron spray paint. Several brands exist on the market, and some do come in larger gallon buckets. However, several cans of spray paint will probably work better than one large container, because the spray paint won't leave brush marks in the paint. This type of paint will create the texture of the wrought iron. Read the instructions on the can to find out how much paint you'll need for this project. Buy that amount for each of the steps involving paint.

4. Allow the pounded iron spray paint to dry. Spray on several coats of the pounded iron spray paint. You're going to be painting over it, because it typically only comes in colors like gray or copper, and you'll want to have the final product be black like wrought iron.

5. Add several layers of stone textured paint to the chair. Look for paint that has a sandstone finish. Allow the paint to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Spray paint the chairs black. Apply several coats. Make sure that the black is a flat black and not a glossy finish, since you're trying to replicate the look of wrought iron, which typically features a dull finish.

7. Allow the black paint to dry according to can instructions and then replace the seats or remove the protective covering from the upholstered portions.

Tags: iron spray, iron spray paint, pounded iron, pounded iron spray, spray paint

Barstool Types

The right type of bar stool can complete the look of a room. For a home party bar or a eat-on breakfast bar, the type of bar stool you select changes the area's appearance. The style of stool ranges from traditional to modern, while the color selections are almost endless. The type, therefore, comes to the forefront when it's time to choose. Does this Spark an idea?

Traditional Wooden

Wooden bar stools may be made for comfort.

Wooden bar stools are sometimes referred to as the traditional type. The four wooden legs may be round or square and may have carvings or other decorative cuts. Wooden stools come in a multitude of heights to suit any table or bar. The seats on wooden bar stools can be bare wood, or they may be covered with decorative pads in colors to match the room's decor. The backs of wooden stools may be round or square depending on the style, or not present at all. Wooden stools fit into a country or traditional decor.

Modern Metal

While plain in shape, metal stools may offer a variety of colors.

Metal bar stools offer a more modern take. The use of metal adds a durable factor, but sometimes subtracts from the decoration. The legs are typically round and require rubber or plastic bottoms or feet to prevent scarring the floor. Available in most heights, many lack a back. These stools are often used for areas where people only sit for a short time. They fit a contemporary, modern or ultra modern decor. The seats usually include a pad for slight sitting comfort.

Swivel

Swivels offer freedom of movement.

A higher-end modern metal bar stool, the swivel stool offers additional comforts for the user. Available in both wood and metal styles, the seat rotates, allowing the user to change his position without moving the entire chair. This motion makes the stools convenient in social settings where conversation and activity are occurring around a room. This type of stool is available in most sizes and may offer a back. The seat may or may not have a pad, depending on the purpose of the piece. These stools fit a relaxed or traditional decor.

Designer and Abstract

Designer or abstract tools may contain mixed materials.

For the person looking for something a little different in a bar stool, a designer type may be the right selection. Designer stools--or stools that don't fit a basic category--are available to suit almost every decor. They come in odd shapes, such as angle backs, and offer a variety of colors and designs. For a modern, ultra modern or futuristic decor, designer or abstract, stools may be the best selections.

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Calculate The Cost Of A Fence Project

The cost of your fence depends on the materials and style you select.

Estimating the cost of building a fence prepares you for the investment and eliminates last-minute surprises. Typically, you can expect to spend about $2,500 to $3,000 putting up a backyard fence, according to Cost Helper.com, an online price estimator. But the cost could be significantly higher or lower based on where you live and the quality of the materials or specific styles you choose. Determine your priorities to ensure the fence meets your needs and adds to the home's overall curb appeal. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Decide whether you're building the fence for privacy, decoration or marking boundaries, and whether it needs to hold in pets or children, keep pests out, hide unattractive features or block the wind.

2. Select the fencing material. Materials vary widely in price, from the most expensive---usually ornamental iron and aluminum---to vinyl, wood and chain link. The prices fluctuate based on location, and on supply and demand. Still, sites such as hooverfence.com can help you calculate costs for each type of material.

3. Determine the fence height, which will be dictated in part by the fence's purpose. A privacy fence is generally higher than a decorative one. The taller the fence, the more materials you'll need.

4. Calculate the fence's perimeter, marking the corners with stakes. With a tape measure, determine the total linear feet of fencing you'll need.

5. Identify the number of gates you want. Each gate will add between $100 and $250, with the actual cost depending on the style, size and gate materials.

6. Add in the cost of any ornamental or decorative accents to the fence or fence posts, such as lattice at the top; cutouts; or caps on the posts, for example. Also include things such as gate latches and the price of paint or stain.

7. Note any potential obstructions for the construction of the fence, whether they are permanent fixtures in the yard or just trees that need trimming. Consider that the roots of nearby trees or a slope in the ground may cause difficulty when installing the fence, adding to your costs.

8. Get estimates for the labor costs if you're hiring a contractor to handle the installation. Add the labor costs to the material costs for the project total.

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Repaint An Iron Fence

Whether it is plain or ornate, there has always been a fascination with the iron fence. It can serve as a decoration or as a deterrent that warns you to stay away. An iron fence can last for generations if you follow a few steps to maintain and repaint it every few years. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Wash the fence with a regular household cleaner to remove dirt and grime before you start the refinishing process. Use a brush to scrub some areas as it's best to start a project with a clean surface. Let it dry thoroughly before beginning the next step.

2. Place a drop cloth under the area to aid in cleanup afterwards. The paint removed may have lead and should be removed from the area and disposed of according to state and federal regulations and guidelines. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the use of lead in paint after 1978, but many of the older iron fences may have layers of lead-based paint. The EPA website has more information on ways to deal with lead paint removal.

3. Determine what type of protective gear you need for this project. A facemask is necessary with sanding and scraping, especially with the removal of lead-based paint. Protective eyewear is required with the use of all power tools. A long-sleeved shirt is a good idea to protect your arms.

4. Remove the old paint and rust with a wire brush, metal scraper or electric sander. You may not be able to remove all of the paint, but the goal is to have a smooth surface so the new paint will adhere. Remove rust areas with emery cloth or the electric sander, depending on how thick it is.

5. Apply a rust neutralizer after you have removed as much of the old paint and rusted areas that you can. Your local hardware associate can help you find the appropriate product for the job.

6. Cover the fence with two or three coats of metal primer, letting the paint dry between coats. This is necessary whenever there is exposed, raw metal in order for the top coats to adhere properly.

7. Brush on the top coat of paint. High gloss alkyd paint is the best choice due to its durability and resistance to humidity and oil. An aerosol can or a roller works, but a brush allows you to get into crevices, and there tends to be less wasted paint with this method. Many historical preservation companies recommend the use of a roller when repainting an old iron fence or gate.

Tags: electric sander, fence with, iron fence, lead paint, lead-based paint

Restore Magnalite Professional Cookware

Magnalite cookware is known for its durability and the high quality materials used in its manufacturing. It is an award-winning cookware line with a long history in the annals of culinary lore. Traditional Magnalite cookware is made from cast aluminum. A hard anodized version of Magnalite was introduced as a cookware line for professional chefs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Hard anodizing produces a thicker coating of aluminum, but it is still just a coating and can be damaged. The final product has a dark brown or black surface. Hard anodized cookware is resistant to salts and abrasions from everyday use that can damage regular or cast aluminum cookware. It has special cleaning needs.

2. Never wash hard-anodized cookware in a dishwasher. Dishwasher detergents contain salts that will damage the surface of Magnalite Professional Cookware. Hand wash your Magnalite Professional cookware thoroughly inside and out after every use. Wash with hot, sudsy water using a dish cloth or soft scrubbing pad. Rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth.

3. Refrain from using steel wool to remove burned on food as it can scratch and damage the cookware. Let burned pots and pans soak overnight with plain water if necessary for easier removal of burned foods. Do not attempt to use a knife or other sharp instrument to remove foods stuck on your hard anodized cookware.

Use a soft abrasive powder cleanser like Bon Ami, or make a paste of baking soda and water to remove any burnt food still remaining in your Magnalite Professional Cookware after soaking.

4. After cleaning, the pan should have an even color tone and return to its matte finish look. A dark or hazy spot on hard-anodized surfaces means that some food residue remains on the cooking surface. Repeat the cleaning process to remove these stains. Dry thoroughly.

To remove interior discoloration, fill the pan with water, add 1 tbsp. cream of tartar or 1 tbsp. lemon juice per quart of water. Simmer on a low flame on the stove until the discoloration is gone. Wash and dry your pans as usual.

5. Do not let cooked foods sit in your Magnalite Cookware for long periods of time, or use the cookware to store foods in the refrigerator. Salt used in the cooking process can damage your cookware.

From time to time, coat the interior surface of your Magnalite Professional Cookware lightly with cooking oil as you would cast iron cookware, especially if you intend to store it for any period of time. Remove any access oil by wiping with a paper towel. The oil will capture any dust and with just a quick rinse will make your hard anodized cookware ready to use.

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