Cool Homemade Bread On A Wire Rack

Cooling fresh bread correctly keeps it from sweating in a bag.

The aroma of freshly baked homemade bread is enough to get your mouth watering. The process of cooling a loaf of bread is a simple one to complete before cutting off a delicious slice. By cooling your homemade bread on a wire rack instead of in its pan or on its stonte, you prevent overbaking and allow your bread to cool evenly, preventing a soggy or damp loaf bottom. Cool your bread properly with a few simple steps. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Oven Removal and Bread Transfer

1. Place a trivet or pot holders on your kitchen counter.

2. Remove your bread carefully from the hot oven, using a pair of oven mitts or pot holders.

3. Place the loaf pan or bread stone on the pads you placed on your counter. Remember to close the oven door and turn off your oven.

4. Place a wire cooling rack on the counter. If you are concerned with making a mess with crumbs, place a cookie sheet underneath the wire rack to catch the crumbs.

5. Grip the sides of your bread pan firmly with oven mitts or pot holders. Gently flip the pan upside down, and shake it gently in a downward motion over the wire cooling rack. The bread should fall gently onto the rack after a few seconds.

6. Place your loaf of bread upright on the wire rack, using oven mitts or pot holders.

7. Place a tea towel over your bread if you want a softer loaf. Otherwise, keep the bread uncovered on the rack for 30 to 45 minutes to properly cool before serving. Darker loaves (rye, pumpernickel) usually require cooling for two to four hours.

8. Check the temperature of the bread after 30 minutes by carefully touching the top of the loaf. If the bread is still warm to the touch, wait another 15 to 30 minutes before checking again.

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Tags: your bread, loaf bread, mitts holders, oven mitts, oven mitts holders, cooling rack, holders Place

Make A Modern Lamp

Reusing old furniture and decorative accessories in the home by giving them a makeover is not only cost-efficient, but also very green. If you have an outdated lamp that you have considered throwing away, give it a modern appearance that matches your home decor. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Making your modern lamp

1. Remove the old lampshade. Take it shopping with you to ensure you are purchasing one that will fit your lamp.

2. Select an ultra-modern lamp shade in a color that complements your room decor. Square lamp shades are very modern looking and work well for this project.

3. The paint you use will depend on what material your lamp is made of. If your lamp base is wooden, spray paint works well. If your lamp is glass, look for a paint made for glass.

4. Paint your lamp base first. Paint it a solid color or add decorative touches and patterns with additional colors. If you choose to do a pattern, it is best to use a stencil. Paint your lamp base a solid color and allow it to dry overnight. Attach your stencil with tape wherever you want the pattern to be. Paint inside the stencil area. Allow this coat of paint to dry for several hours. Remove the stencil.

5. The last step is to put the new lamp shade onto the lamp.

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Plant Clawfoot Bathtubs

A clawfoot bathtub can also make an attractive planter in your landscape.

Whether you have limited gardening space or simply want a unique and stylish planter in you landscape, using a clawfoot bathtub can be an ideal solution. Like modern day bathtubs, clawfoot tubs can hold enough growing material to provide you with a salad garden of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and herbs. Or, for visual appeal, plant your favorite flowering plants and bulbs in your clawfoot tub for color throughout the growing season. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Place two to three layers of shade cloth or a fine mesh screen over the drain hole of the clawfoot bathtub to prevent material from leaking out, yet provide some drainage.

2. Add three to four inches of pea gravel in the bottom of the tub, covering the shade cloth or wire mesh. Pea gravel will aid drainage.

3. Lay down six to 10 sheets of old newspaper over the pea gavel. Wet the newspaper thoroughly with a garden hose.

4. Sprinkle three-to-four handfuls of organic fertilizer in pellet form over the wet newspaper. The pellets provide slow release of the fertilizer.

5. Add a four-to-six inch layer of organic material on top of the fertilizer and newspaper. Compost is ideal for the organic material. Follow this layer with a three-to-four inch layer of straw. Wet these layers. Add a two-to-three inch layer of well rotted mature, followed by another three-to-five inch layer of organic material or compost.

6. Mix potting soil with equal parts peat moss or garden loam. Add this on top of the final layer of compost in the clawfoot bathtub. Fill the tub to three-to-four inches from the top with this soil mixture. Wet the filled soil with a garden hose so it is moist, but not waterlogged.

7. Plant seeds or plants in the soil in the tub. After seeds germinate and have grown four-to-five inches, add mulch around the plants to help keep the moisture in the soil.

Tags: clawfoot bathtub, inch layer, organic material, garden hose, inch layer organic

Install Wrought Iron Balusters On Stepup Stairs

Install wrought iron balusters on your current staircase.

If you have a staircase with unsightly balusters, then you can remove them and install wrought iron balusters within one day with a little patience, hard work and help from an assistant. Make sure you rent the equipment you need ahead of time if you do not already own it. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Lay a drop cloth on the flooring around the staircase and below it to catch debris and dust.

2. Remove the old balusters by cutting them in half with a hand saw and then unscrewing them from the staircase.

3. Drill over the current holes in the staircase left by the old balusters with a 5/8-padded drill bit loaded on a power drill, which you can rent from a home construction supply store.

4. Measure the length of spindle you need with a tape measure by measuring from the hole in the staircase to the underside of the top railing.

5. Cut the iron spindles to the correct size using a power hand saw with a metal cutting blade.

6. Apply epoxy to the top handrail hole. Place the spindle in the bottom handrail hole and press down. Then move the top of the spindle into the top handrail hole. Apply epoxy to the bottom handrail hole.

7. Clip the decorative hardware called the shoe to the bottom of the spindle and tighten it with the tool that came with your spindle set.

Tags: handrail hole, Apply epoxy, bottom handrail, bottom handrail hole

Building Codes For Fences In Washington State

Fences in the state of Washington can vary in size depending on the building codes within a particular municipality. Fencing laws and requirements are designed to ensure that all fences are constructed in a safe manner and do not obstruct the views of other residents. Those who construct a fence for any purpose should always check the building codes that apply ahead of time. A poorly designed fence can lead to unwanted accidents and injuries. Does this Spark an idea?

Livestock Fences

Under the guidelines of the Revised Codes of Washington (RCW) Section 16.60.010, all fences constructed to maintain livestock must meet certain specifications. Lawful fences for livestock must contain at least four barbed horizontal wires. The top wire must be at least 48 inches from ground level, the third must be 32 inches, the second 22 inches and the first 12 inches from the ground. All barbed-wire fence posts must be planted firmly in the ground. The posts must be positioned no more than 24 feet apart from each other.

Swimming Pool Fences

Different municipalities have their own building codes in regard to swimming pool fences in Washington. For example, Section 11.12.040 of the Spokane Municipal Code states that all residential swimming pools must be enclosed by a fence at all times. The fence must be at least 4 feet in height, and must be approved by a building inspector. The fence itself may not contain any openings that would allow a child to crawl through or underneath. Fences made out of wood must be built in a manner that prevents children from climbing over them. Any gate attached to the pool fence must have a self-closing latch. These laws were passed on August 17, 1987 and went into effect on September 16, 1987.

Residential Fences

Residential fences in Washington have their own set of regulations depending on the municipality. Under the guidelines of the Bonney Lake Residential Development Standards Section 18.22.020, fences in the front yard cannot exceed a height of 4 feet. Residents are not allowed to construct electric fences or barbed-wire fences adjacent to a property line. Those looking to build a fence on, or near, the property line must first get written permission to do so from their neighbor. All fences built must not obstruct vision for motorists.

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Choose Fencing Material

When putting up a fence, there are several things to consider - and your taste in aesthetics is just one of them. One of the most important things to determine is which material is best for your purpose. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Consider the amount of wear and tear your fence will take. You may not need the very best hardwoods available if you live in a relatively mild climate and you don't have animals or children that may be leaning or climbing on your ranch-style fence.

2. Pick solid wood posts without knots, which affect the integrity of the post.

3. Get post caps for wooden fence posts. Exposing the ends of the wood to rain will encourage moisture and cause rotting.

4. Decide if you want to sink your posts in concrete or set them on fence post spikes. Spikes are a lot easier to install and remove, whereas concrete is permanent.

5. Select a gate made of oak or cedar rather than economical softwoods. It will be worth the investment when you aren't replacing it every few years.

6. Keep in mind that wrought iron requires priming and painting - and that painting must be kept up.

7. Look for bricks rated type SW (severe weathering) for areas prone to snow and ice. Type MW (moderate weathering) will hold up fine in climates with little frost.

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Different Decking Designs

Decks can be designed to complement great views.

Adding a deck can increase the value of your house along with providing an outside entertainment space. Deck designs can range from covered or screen-in decks to multilevel decks to frame-less decks that blend into the natural landscape. Deck designs depend on what purpose for which they're being used, including surrounding a hot tub or creating a spot for your grill and outdoor furniture. Does this Spark an idea?

Pool/Spa Decks

Create a circular area, and close in the sides and top to create a little spa hut. Leave one side open, and install windows for ventilation. Model the design after the Japanese tea houses. Install a slanted roof that comes to a point. Match the wood with the deck, preferably in a natural stain. Create an oval opening that overlooks a section of the garden. Another design would include sinking the hot tub or small pool into the deck. Do this on raised decks, and make the steps on the side of the pool or hot tub the same type of wood and stain as the deck.

Deck Railings

Deck railings no longer just have to be solid wood with standard deck rails. Use tinted glass or high-quality plastic for the deck railings while still using the wooden frame. These types of railings reduce view obstructions. Stain or paint the deck a solid, deep color for additional contrast. Use ornate cast or wrought iron railings with solid-colored wood or composite columns placed between railing sections and entries. Solid-colored composite or wood deck floors, especially maroon or deep reds will complement the iron and create an old-world look. For a minimalist ground floor deck, only use small railings near steps that are made of solid wood with possibly an Asian-inspired trellis in one corner.

Sloped Landscapes

For deeply sloped areas or for pathways that lead down to waterways and roads, create a stepped deck. Break up every 10 to 15 steps with deck landings large enough to fit patio furniture. Or, install benches into the sides of the landings for resting points. Continue this pattern until the bottom. If the end of the deck leads to an overlook of lakes or mountains, create a large landing with built-in benches and enough room for other patio furniture and a grill. For wooded landscapes, keep your stain natural, or stain it to match surrounding environment. For extremely green landscapes, experiment with dark greens with black, wrought iron railings.

Lighting

Use solar-powered lights that either contrast or complement deck railings. Place on ends of deck columns and/or underneath deck stairs for ambient lighting. Use triangular, woodsy or Asian designs for interesting twists to classic lights. Use larger post caps for entrances. Use floodlights to highlight deck features like hot tubs and to provide for extra illumination.

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Interior Decorating For A Terrace

Designing a terrace can bring a touch of class to a home.

A terrace is a space for entertaining friends, relaxing after a long day or just hanging out with family members. A few design details can transform an open space into a luxury getaway right outside your door. Does this Spark an idea?

Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture can create a specific visual feeling for your terrace. For example, if you want a romantic space, choose furniture in black wrought iron with intricate details. For a more modern approach, choose outdoor furniture with an aluminum or chrome finish. Wood furniture, such as teak, can add to a nautical or luxurious design theme. Take care not to overwhelm the terrace with too much furniture. A simple table and chairs is best for a small terrace.

Creating an Intimate Setting

If the terrace will be a place for you and a loved one to go, the focus of the design theme should be on intimacy. This means placing furniture closer together, arranging chairs so that they are side by side instead of separated. Outdoor lighting, particularly candles, can further create an atmosphere of intimacy. Drape sheer outdoor fabric over pergolas or railings for an even more romantic approach. For large terraces or if your terrace is for entertaining guests, create special intimate seating areas away from the main flow of foot traffic on the terrace.

Accessories

Accessories can further cement the design theme you have chosen for your terrace. For a romantic terrace, place outdoor candle holders on tables and add plants around the railings. For a casual and informal terrace, use simple and whimsical accessories such as cute figurines. Keep the amount of accessories small and when in doubt, err on the side of minimalism, rather than excess, unless you are dealing with a very large terrace.

Transitioning

Your own home decor should tie in somehow with your terrace, particularly in the room that opens out to the terrace. You can accomplish this through color choices and with accessories. If you have chosen a totally different theme for your terrace than what your home currently has, find a way to create visual harmony between the two spaces with the use of a common accent color, or simply by adding a few of the same types of plants out on the terrace to the room that connects with it.

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Decorating A Western Bedroom

Use your own gear to decorate a Western bedroom.

A Western bedroom provides a warm and rustic ambience suitable for both genders. With earthy colors, natural materials and colorful vintage artwork, a Western bedroom is a relaxing retreat in any setting, whether rural or urban. Although there is plenty of Western-themed merchandise for a bedroom, making some of your own pieces or using what you have can be more rewarding and budget-friendly. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove all the existing furniture and items from the bedroom so that you can start with a clean slate. De-clutter as you go.

2. A blend of warm tan, yellow and cream paint will create a pleasing wall shade.

Paint the walls a hide-cream color to give the room a warm start.

3. Native American blankets have different decorative motifs to choose from.

Place a large Native American-styled area rug where you will place your bed. This will protect the floor and add an eye-catching border around the sleeping area.

4. Hang cream-colored canvas curtains over the windows from wrought iron tree branch-styled curtain rods.

5. Cowhide makes an eye-catching headboard.

Update your bed by purchasing a leather headboard. Ambitious decorators can make their own with plywood, cushioning foam and a large piece of cowhide, deer hide or dyed leather.

6. Reds, browns and creams fit nicely in a Western-styled room.

Pull a color from your area rug to dress the bed. Purchase luxurious solid-colored linens and a thick comforter.

7. Pile up pillows on the bed, combining Western motifs with solid colors that match your bedding. Look for designs that feature cowboys, steer horns or vintage-style illustrations of cowboys.

8. Use distressed furniture for a rustic Western look.

Use rustic, distressed, deeply stained wood bedside tables and dressers.

9. Purchase an antler-based table lamp for the bedside table or update an existing table lamp with a cowhide-patterned or leather-accented lampshade.

10. Frame a vintage reproduction poster from Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show featuring Annie Oakley. This will add a big pop of color and visual interest to the room.

11. Decorate your wall with your own cowboy hats.

Line up a collection of cowboy hats and hang it on the wall with small nails. Try to mix colors and materials, adding to your collection if necessary with inexpensive purchases from thrift stores.

Tags: cowboy hats, table lamp, This will, wall with, Western bedroom

Decorate A Modern Living Room

Modern living rooms often feature light colors and furniture with clean lines.

According to Michael Webb in "Architectural Digest," modern homes --- and by extension, modern living rooms --- caused quite a stir when their cool, light colors, clean lines and a sense of minimalism hit the market over a half-century ago. Today, these features are embraced as commonplace, and plenty of decorative elements following the modern style exist on the market. Additionally, it's a simple style to reproduce in a living room. Modern decorating usually follows the same principles of decorating as other styles do; it just incorporates furniture and accessories constructed in modern styles into the room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose a focal point for the room. A focal point often emerges out of a particularly striking architectural feature such as a fireplace or from one you create, like a sculpture and wall art gallery. If you're creating one instead of going with a feature that already exists in the room, choose modern pieces such as modern abstract wall art and sculptures.

2. Look for furniture that features clean lines. Modern decorating embraces simple-looking construction in simple, often neutral colors. In this look, there are no overstuffed couches and chairs and glass or Plexiglass tables. Instead, the cushioning -- both the kind that comes on the piece and the extra throw pillows -- are kept to a minimum.

3. Use small decorative accessories to create visual points of interest. Although it might seem that modern decorating and decorative knickknacks are incompatible, they're not. They do need to be selected carefully; however; less is more in this case. To make this work, "Real Simple" recommends that you put like with like, meaning that if you've chosen to create a display from different types of letters, group the few pieces that you have together to make a small display on a side table or the fireplace mantel.

4. Select your area rugs to support the modern theme. Alissia Davic recommends on the "Rental Decorating Digest" website that you choose a geometrically shaped rug if you've chosen to decorate in a modern style. Area rugs not only bring spots of color to a room, they can assist you in creating a focal point in your modern living room. To do this, place your area rug in front of your focal wall -- this could be a fireplace or photo gallery -- and position your furniture around the rug.

5. Introduce color to stimulate visual interest. Despite gravitating toward light-colored neutrals, modern living room decorating can use the additional oomph given to it by adding a few pieces of vibrantly colored furniture, couches or chairs. For example, if your living room features mostly white, add in a cobalt blue couch or red chair. It'll provide a visual anchor and make the room more interesting. Make sure the piece features modern, simple construction to keep it grounded in the modern style. You can also accomplish this task by painting one of your walls a vibrant color and leaving the rest of them white.

Tags: living room, clean lines, focal point, modern style, couches chairs, light colors, living rooms

Anchor Loadbearing Deck Posts

You can build the most beautiful deck in the world, but you won't be able to enjoy it if it feels like a carnival ride every time you step on it. Thus, you'll need to know anchor your load-bearing deck posts properly. This is one of the first steps to building the deck of your dreams, so nearly every step after this depends on its proper execution. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Dig the holes for the concrete pads. These pads will house the load-bearing posts and keep them in place.

2. Clean the holes of any extra dirt or plants that may have fallen in the hole or are growing out of the sides of the hole. Leaving these in the hole will lead to imperfections in the concrete and may eventually affect the structural integrity of your load-bearing posts.

3. Set up your concrete mixing area as close to the holes as you possibly can. Smaller jobs may allow you to mix concrete in a smaller container that would be more portable, such as a wheel barrow. Work quickly, since the smaller the amount of concrete you're working with is, the faster it will cure.

4. Moisten the dirt in the holes if the soil is particularly dry. This is a crucial step, because if the soil is not moist enough, it will leach the moisture from the cement, causing cracking and sinking. However, if your soil is nice and moist, don't add more moisture or it will take an excessively long time to dry, which will cause mildew and mold to grow.

5. Pour the mixed concrete into the holes. It may be easiest to shovel the concrete in so there are no major spills.

6. Tap the concrete down with the back of your shovel to remove any air bubbles and to ensure that the mixture has completely filled all the corners and edges of the hole.

7. Even out the top of the concrete with a wood float. You can make a wood float by simply using a small section of a 2-by-4-foot board that is slightly larger than the width of the hole.

8. Insert the concrete pier into the concrete. The concrete should be cured enough to hold the weight of the pier, but still soft enough to allow it to sink into the concrete slightly. If your particular concrete is too thick for the pier to settle in naturally, then you can twist it back and forth a bit to get it to dig into the concrete.

9. Level out the concrete pier. Correct any leveling problems by pressing the pier further into the concrete on the high end.

10. Line up the concrete pier with the grid lines that you should have marked during the layout stage of your deck project.

11. Smooth out any imperfections around the pier that may have been caused by inserting the piers.

12. Cut the posts to the appropriate height. You'll want to cut the posts about 6 inches longer than the desired finished height.

13. Slip the post into the fitting of the concrete pier.

14. Secure the post with two thinner pieces of wood that are attached to adjoining sides of the post and nailed to stakes in the ground. This will serve as a temporary anchor for your posts. These pieces of wood should be mounted at 90-degree angles on the post, and check that the post is perfectly level and plumb before screwing these support beams in place.

15. Anchor each post by screwing it into to the concrete pier.

Tags: concrete pier, into concrete, anchor your, load-bearing posts, pieces wood

Scientific Properties Of Wrought Iron

Wrought iron was the premier material for construction and strength for buildings, ships, and other applications from the late 1700s until the early 1900s when it was mostly replaced by steel. Wrought iron was a mass-produced metal, which was used when durability and resistance to corrosion was needed. The properties that make up this metal though are much more interesting than most people are aware of.

Composition

Wrought iron is a very particular kind of iron. The general definition is that it is commercially pure iron, which contains 1 to 4 percent slag, or iron silicate, by weight. This measurement of content was particularly important, as it's part of what gave wrought iron its strength.

Oxidation

Wrought iron, since it is as close to pure iron as can be worked with commercially, is nearly immune to rust. This is mostly due to the purity of the metal, as it is much harder for iron by itself to rust than it is for an alloy or iron and something else to oxidize.

Flexibility

Wrought iron is a very ductile form of iron to work with as well. This means that while wrought iron is strong and resilient, it's also easy to work it into a new shape, even one as thin as a wire or cable. Whether wrought iron was being forged by hand, or rolled out in a mill, this property is what made it such a popular material for crafting.

Grain

Wrought iron is a fibrous metal, which gives it a grain similar to that found in wood. This fibrous nature of the metal is created by the inclusion of slag in the wrought iron. This unique grain is usually only seen when wrought iron is bent, or broken.

Welding

The property that made wrought iron highly desirable for construction, both of buildings and of ships, was that it can be easily welded. This allowed large sections of wrought iron to be brought together and welded into place, whether they were for the hull of a battleship, or for a fanciful railing, the property remained the same.

Tags: wrought iron, Wrought iron, Wrought iron very, buildings ships, iron very, metal which, pure iron

Remove Bakedon Grease From Pots And Pans

Soap and water are often not enough to remove baked-on grease from pots and pans.

It is frustrating to finish cooking and eating a delicious meal only to find baked-on grease left on your pots or pans. Not only will leftover baked-on grease alter the taste of future dishes, it can ruin your cookware if not cleaned properly. Whether your pots and pans are copper, stainless steel, glass, cast iron, nonstick or enamel, it is important to thoroughly and properly remove baked-on grease to preserve your pots and pans and ensure they do not become damaged during the cleaning process. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Copper

1. Fill an empty spray bottle with 2 cups of white vinegar. Add 3 tbsp. of table salt and shake the bottle gently.

2. Spray the mixture generously on the affected areas of the copper pot. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

3. Wash the pan with warm, soapy water and a rag.

Stainless Steel

4. Pour equal parts white vinegar and water into the pot or pan so that the baked-on grease is completely covered. Place the cookware on the stove, cover with a lid and turn the stove to medium heat.

5. Bring the vinegar and water mixture to a gentle boil. Turn off the heat and let the pot sit on the stove for ten minutes. Remove it from the heat after ten minutes and let it sit overnight.

6. Discard the contents of the pan the next day. Wash the pan with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge.

Glass

7. Spray a generous coating of oven cleaner on the greasy spots of the pot or pan. Make sure to wear rubber gloves to avoid skin irritation.

8. Put the glass cookware into a heavy-duty trash bag. Seal the bag tightly and let it sit overnight.

9. Open up the trash bag outdoors the next day and remove the glass cookware. Keep your face away from the trash bag to avoid inhaling the fumes.

10. Wash the pan thoroughly in the kitchen sink with warm, soapy water and a sponge.

Cast Iron

11. Sprinkle a generous coating of table salt into the pot or pan.

12. Scrub the baked-on grease from the pan with a wet nylon scrubbing pad. Add more salt as needed to effectively remove the grease.

13. Wash the pan with a rag and warm water. If the grease is persistent, let the pan soak in hot water for a few hours, then scrub again with table salt and a nylon scouring pad.

Nonstick

14. Fill the pan with ½ cup white vinegar, 2 tbsp. baking soda and one cup water. Double the ingredients if more is needed to cover the baked-on grease spots.

15. Put the pan on the stove over medium heat until the liquid comes to a boil. Allow the mixture to boil for ten minutes.

16. Discard the contents of the pot. Wash the pot thoroughly with a rag and warm, soapy water.

Enamel

17.Fill the pot with enough warm water to cover the baked-on grease spots. Drop two denture tablets into the water.

18. Let the water sit in the pan for at least ten minutes, or until the fizzing has subsided.

19. Discard the water from the pan. Wash it thoroughly with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge.

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Instructions For Putting An Iron Bed Together

Simple wrought iron beds are quick to assemble, and easy to move.

Flat pack iron beds are a convenient bedding solution. They are easy to carry home from the store, and quick to disassemble, when moving house. With this in mind, it can be easy to lose track of the assembly instructions. Sometimes they may not even be printed in English. With a basic knowledge of the iron bed's construction -- it's possible to assemble any bed -- without the manufacturer's instruction booklet. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Lay out the side rails -- the headboard, and the foot board -- in roughly the same place where the bed will wind up.

2. Attach casters or feet to the bed legs, if your bed has them. They usually slip over, or into the ends of the legs. You can tap them in with the mallet, if the fit is tight.

3. Attach the side rails. They may need to be screwed into place, or they may hook onto a bracket welded to the legs.

4. Attach the cross beams. They can cross the bed between the side rails -- between the headboard and the foot boards -- or diagonally across the corners. Like the side rails, these are either hooked or screwed into place.

5. Lay the bed slats. The bed slats are the straps of wood that support the mattress. They lie across the bed frame, from one side rail to the other. Space them evenly. They may screw into the bed frame, or be connected by a ribbon. These will lie loosely on the frame.

6. Lay the mattress on the slats and add sheets, pillows and blankets, to complete your bed.

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Instructions For Metal Hooks

Metal hooks come in all shapes and sizes, and can be matched to any decor. Metal hooks make use of space on doors and walls to store items that need to be in sight and in reach. Small hooks can hold cups, mugs, keys or kitchen utensils at eye-level, eliminating counter clutter. Medium hooks keep towels off your bathroom floor. Larger hooks can hold pots and pans, coats and other outerwear. Oversized hooks keep bicycles and power tools off the garage floor. Does this Spark an idea?

Types

Oversized "J" hooks are used in basements. garages, workshops and storage sheds. Their larger total size and heavier gauge, between 1/4" to 3/4" in diameter, make them ideal for hanging bicycles, sports equipment and hand-held power tools on cement, brick or stone block walls. "J" hooks also can support large decorations for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or other holidays throughout the year.

Coat hooks keep outerwear from cluttering entryways, closets and mud rooms. Coat hooks often have an attached screw, and are usually made of cast metal in more ornate shapes than other hooks. Victorian-era homes often have an oak coat tree with cast metal hooks standing in a corner.

Cup hooks are small, often made of brass, and screw into walls and under cabinets. The hook portion is usually wider and more circular than other hooks, allowing you to easily hang and remove cups, mugs or small appliances (Reference 2). Cup hooks are also used to hang plants from ceilings, or to support toy nets. Cup hooks can support lanterns or kissing balls as well.

Ornament hooks are very thin metal wire. You can make improvised ornament hooks by bending a paper clip into an "S" shape, hooking one end through your ornament, and pinching that end closed. The other end gets wrapped around a branch of your tree and pinched slightly to prevent your ornament from being knocked off the branch.

Other metal hook shapes include "S" and "U." Pot racks usually include a number of "S" hooks. "U" hooks are often used to anchor objects such as large inflatable decorations to the ground.

Installation

Use a stud finder before you decide where to put your hooks, if you want to support anything heavier than matted artwork. Use screws instead of tacks or nails for pots and pans, kitchen utensils or crockery that will see frequent use. The constant pressure on the fastener when removing or replacing the item will work nails or tacks loose, damaging your wall or cabinet. Use wall anchors or molly bolts for pictures with heavy frames, large wall hangings or display shelves. If you drill through concrete to install your hook, use a masonry bit.

Aesthetics

Overkill is the one mistake most people make when hanging art or other wall decorations. A clutter of random photos, display shelves, shadow boxes, plaques and swags lacks balance and looks disorganized. Plan your display before you install your hooks. Mark the positions of the items you wish to hang. Have one or more helpers hold the items in place while you look at the arrangement. Adjust the position of each hook to maximize the visual impact without overpowering the room.

Expert Insight

According to Interior Design Inspirations.com, "Many homes today are decorated with beautiful furnishings and accessories. But if there is not enough contrast either in color or material, a home can feel dull and sometimes boring. An easy way to add contrast and interest is to put up a few wrought iron wall hooks. These decorative accessories are not just beautiful, but functional."

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Crafts Using Paving Stones

Paving stones come in different shapes, sizes and colors.

Paving stones come in various sizes, colors and shapes. Home-supply, hardware and garden stores sell them individually at a wide range of prices. But if you have leftover stones from a previous project lying around and want to create a lasting keepsake for your home or garden, all you need now are the right supplies and some time.

Mosaic

Mosaic designs can be made with glass, beads, shells and other items.

Using bits of glass, seashells or beads -- three things that are easy to find -- turns a plain paving stone into a work of mosaic art, with a little glue and sanded grout. Display your own mosaic design on a wall, use it as a trivet or decorative stepping stone in your garden, or put it behind a sink to function as a back splash. You can personalize it by writing a loved one's name or a special message with the materials.

Tabletop

Stone pavers must be flat to be used as a tabletop.

A paving stone coffee or dining table makes a durable, weather-resistant addition to a patio or yard. It can complement a stone style already in a home, or it can be decorated with a mosaic, permanent paints or stencils for a new look. Top a wrought iron or heavy hardwood base from an existing table with your choice of flat stone. Omi Stonework, a New York-based stone installer, suggests using stone for matching end tables, too.

Snowman

Make a snowman with all-weather paint, buttons, glue, scarf and hat. This craft requires a keyhole-shaped paving stone, according to the December/January 2009 issue of "Family Fun" magazine, which recommends using orange molding clay to fashion a nose and superglue to attach it to the snowman. If you display your snowman indoors, glue a piece of felt to the bottom of the stone to protect floors.

Candle

This project -- explained at the website Craftbits -- requires a stone with cut-outs. Even a plain brick with a few holes will do. You also need a non-drying modeling clay to prevent leakage; a piece of cardboard for a base; and basic candle making supplies, including wicks and candle wax. Scenting the wax with a drop of lavender or other essential oil is optional. After pouring and cooling the wax, you can remove the cardboard and molding clay.

Tags: paving stone, molding clay, Paving stones come, sizes colors, stones come

Decorate With A White Rod Iron Bed

If he's not your significant other, think about an all-white bedroom.

If your mind flashes to hay lofts, Victorian bed chambers and rural cabins when you study your white, wrought-iron bed and you think you're stuck in time when it comes to decorating your bedroom, listen up: White iron beds can be chameleons, adapting to myriad room themes and schemes. Whether your bed is an authentic antique that's just been dusted for cobwebs or a modern reproduction with charm to spare, the following ideas should set you free from those preconceived notions. Although sometimes referred to as rod iron, wrought-iron is the correct term. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Create a beautiful modern bedroom. Working with a white, wrought-iron bed that's sleek and streamlined can be a blessing if your tastes run to minimalism. Pick one dark color for the wall on which your bed resides - charcoal gray or taupe -- and paint the remaining walls a complementary shade: white-muted taupe or sheer gray. Euro furnishings in high-key white or black lacquer add plenty of contrast. Pick one decorative touch to finish the room. For example, Diego Garcia-inspired art, featuring bunches of calla lilies, adds a warm touch and a little color that can be repeated in the bedspread.

2. Decorate to emulate your romantic fantasy. No need to lavish a room with so much pink it looks like a stomach medication ad. Give your bedroom a sweet, romantic look. Gradations of periwinkle blue and lavender work equally well, and if your wrought-iron bed is highly detailed, achieve the highest contrast by placing it against a dark periwinkle wall. Use a pink floral comforter or duvet cover to set the room's tone. Your romantic, white, wrought-iron bed begs for white wicker furnishings, and if those pieces are distressed, you'll achieve the essence of shabby chic. Invest in high-count cotton pink, tan and white linens and you may not want to leave your bedroom unless there's a really good reason.

3. Be bold and opt for a whiter shade of pale. If there are no pudding-eating kids, guys who play soccer or Newfoundland dogs sharing your life, this may be the one and only time of your life you can pull off an all-white bedroom that starts with your white, wrought-iron bed. Here's the key: Pay close attention to the shade of whites you select. Warm rooms call for yellow-tinged paint while your paint mixologist can tint white with blue to produce a cool, coordinating shade. A soft tan carpet keeps the room from looking like Catherine the Great's winter palace, but you can enjoy a touch of splendor using gold-trimmed accents and furnishings and hanging a crystal-embellished chandelier. No chocolate pudding in bed for you if you choose this dramatic look.

4. Work with wood. Once upon a time, mixed media was considered a design violation, but your white wrought iron bed can coexist with wood very nicely. One of the classiest mixes under the sun is cherry wood, which exudes rich, red undertones and always pairs wonderfully with white. A tan carpet, ultra-light tan walls, cherry wood furnishings and your white wrought iron bed can make decorating magic, but you still need a dramatic focal point. Invest in a beautiful tapestry or large piece of art with a dominant color palette of reds and browns. If cherry isn't your thing, you can coordinate a beautiful room that showcases warm maple or oak furnishings.

Tags: white wrought-iron, your white, your bedroom, all-white bedroom, cherry wood, white wrought, white wrought iron

Instructions For Country Cottage Decor

Creating country cottage decor

There are many different styles of decor that create beautiful, cozy and functional homes; however, one of these design styles, country cottage decor, is particularly relaxed and casual. This decorating scheme is hallmarked by its use of rustic furniture finishes, old-world antiques, charming fabric motifs and quaint wall treatments. By incorporating various country decorating elements, working with a country cottage color palette and mixing and matching quintessential country accents, a country cottage decor is easy to create. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Incorporate country cottage wallcoverings. There are many types of wall treatments in country cottage designs such as wallpaper, wallpaper borders and bead board. Paint finishes are also used in hues of red, green, blue and yellow with additions of white in the molding for color.

2. Select painted furniture or natural woods in pine and oak. Painted furniture and natural pine and oak wood pieces give a room a relaxed feeling, which is one of the hallmarks of country cottage decorating. Use these woods in coffee tables, end tables, dining room furniture and bed headboards for a cottage decor.

3. Add specialty fabrics. Country cottage decor is soft and cozy, so the addition of fabrics with floral, stripe and check motifs coordinate beautifully in items such as pillows, window treatments, bedding and tablecloths.

4. Mix in antiques, antique reproduction and vintage pieces. The addition of antique furniture pieces, such as old jelly cupboards, pie safes and writing desks creates a decor full of cozy charm and country visual appeal while vintage accents such as quilts, stoneware pottery, worn aprons, books and other old items enhances your room for a great country cottage look as well.

5. Add appropriate flooring materials. Floors in a country cottage are usually tile or natural light-colored wood. Stencil old wood floors in a faux rug motif or add woven area rugs or braided rugs for extra cushion and visual appeal.

6. Hang simple window treatments. Country cottage decor is at its core simple. When thinking about window treatments choose coverings such as valances, tab-top curtains, and tied back ruffled muslin treatments. The relaxed style of these choices significantly adds another level of charm and simplicity to your space.

7. Add accessories. Twig baskets, dried-flower wreaths, old spools, quilts and embroidered table runners further the look of a country cottage. These little final touches are beautiful and simple and give your room a completed look and feel.

Tags: country cottage, cottage decor, window treatments, country cottage decor, furniture natural, There many, visual appeal

Wedding Centerpiece Ideas With Trees

A tree-like centerpiece can add to a garden style wedding.

Plants are often a big part of wedding receptions due to their natural beauty. In a traditional reception, each table is adorned with a centerpiece that expresses the wedding theme. A tree-like centerpiece can provide a warm, natural, garden-like quality to any wedding reception. Eliciting images of the tree of life, a tree centerpiece is timeless and dramatic. In a non-traditional wedding, individual centerpieces can be replaced with a singular tree, such as a birch or lemon tree in the center of the room to add height.

Branches

Branches can create a tree-like centerpiece that has draping capabilities. Individual reception tables are adorned with vases or baskets that hold branches of varying sizes. Rocks, beads and expandable foam help to anchor and keep the branches in place. Each branch is then adorned with glass votives, beads, crystals, flowers, pearls or hanging tea lights to add to the dramatization. Natural colored branches are lovely, but the branches can also be spray painted to match wedding colors. If you want to decorate your branches with white lights, spray painting the branches white is a good way to disguise electrical wires. Spray paint finishes for the branches come in satin, gloss or semi-gloss finishes.

Seasonal

Tree centerpieces can be a good idea for a seasonal-themed wedding. Standing approximately 1 foot tall, miniature Christmas trees can add holiday flavor to a December wedding. Christmas tree centerpieces can be decorated with mini ornaments, candy canes, lights and fake snow, adding to the spirit of a holiday wedding. Miniature palm trees can add to the beach theme of a summer wedding, while cherry blossoms and autumn leaves can be added to branches for a spring or fall wedding.

Wrought Iron

A tree centerpiece doesn't have to be from a natural tree. Many tree-like sculptures are made from wrought iron, which can add flavor to a reception table. Wrought-iron trees can hold tea lights, votives or flowers. For a non-traditional wedding, a cupcake tree can provide an edible delight for guests at each table. Cupcake trees can replace the traditional wedding cake, allowing you to save money.

Bonsai and Live Trees

A live miniature tree makes for a lovely reception table centerpiece that can later be given as a gift to members of the wedding party. To add color, flower petals can be attached or spread around the base of the bonsai centerpiece. Bonsai trees can add to an Asian-themed wedding. Baby spruce trees can provide a similar effect. Tree-like topiaries are trees that have been pruned and sculpted to make specific shapes which can also add to a wedding's theme.

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Cook With A Cast Iron Grill

Also known as a sportsman's grill, the cast iron grill is a great way to grill food without using a lot of space. A cast iron grill weighs only about 30 pounds. This grill is ideal for traveling, tailgating or cooking out on a small porch with limited space. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Prepare the grill plates. If you don't season the grill plate properly, your food will stick to it. Wash the grill plate by hand using water and just a little soap. Pat dry. Use solidified oil, such as Crisco, to add a full coat of shine to the entire pan. Lightly wipe away any excess oil before cooking or storing.

2. Use wood or charcoal in the base of the grill for fuel. Follow the recommended usage instructions listed on your charcoal package to get the most heat from each briquette. If you are using wood, begin with a fire-starter and kindling under slightly larger logs set into the form of a tepee. Light the fire-starter and kindling mixture. The flames will light the larger logs. Let the fire burn out until all that's left are red-hot embers.

3. Move the seasoned grill plate into place above the coals. Allow it to preheat. While the grill is heating, prepare the food. If using a dry meat, like lamb, pork or fish, lightly coat the outside with olive or cooking oil. This, along with the well-seasoned grill plate, will keep the meat from sticking.

4. Lay the meat on the grill evenly. Though the grill plate should be resting on specially designed slots or grooves, the chances of meat falling into the fire are greater if it's all on one side of the plate.

5. Cook the meat thoroughly, flipping at least once. The actual cooking time will depend on the type of meat used and the desired inner temperature.

6. Clean and season the grill plate once it has cooled. If your cast iron grill has a lid, clean and season this as well. Store the grill in a clean, dry area.

Tags: grill plate, iron grill, cast iron, cast iron grill, fire-starter kindling

Make A Gate Headboard

A gate can be transformed into a stylish headboard.

It used to be that a headboard was part of a set of bedroom furniture, but today having a unique headboard is popular. Old doors, shutters, panels, artwork, fabric, tapestries, and even twigs can be used to highlight the head of the bed. One particularly whimsical headboard is made by reclaiming antique wrought iron garden gates. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Visit your local antique store, recycling yard, flea market or garage sale to locate an old metal garden gate. Select a gate that has an interesting pattern and is the right size for a headboard.

2. Brush off peeling paint, rust, dirt and debris if the gate needs to be painted. Some older gates look good in their rustic condition, while others need new paint. Keep in mind that the existing paint may have lead in it, so wear gloves and a mask, and clean the gate over plastic sheeting that you can dispose of easily.

3. Sand down bad patches of rust or tight corners. If you want to paint your gate, you need to give the paint a good, clean surface to adhere to. Wipe off the residue with rags.

4. Prime the gate with a good primer. If the gate had a lot of rust, you should use a rust inhibitor type of spray paint primer. Apply two or three coats, allowing 30 minutes of drying time between coats.

5. Paint your gate the color of your choice. Paint your pipe holding brackets and screws too. Allow the paint to dry three to four hours, until it is hard.

6. Locate studs in the wall behind your bed using a stud finder. If you can mount your gate directly to studs it will be more secure. If not, use wall anchors. Check your gate for level, and mark where the pipe holder brackets will slip over portions of the gate to screw into the wall. Screw the gate to the wall. Your gate should be positioned 3 inches above your mattress and centered over your bed.

Tags: your gate, your gate

Make A Yard Rustic

Antique stores, old barns or thrift shops are excellent places to shop for rustic decor.

If you enjoy Southwestern, country or Western decor in your home, giving your yard a rustic look is an ideal way to display your personality and tastes to the world. The style lends an old-fashioned air of familiarity to the lawn area, and looks inviting to family and guests. This type of yard is perfect for sitting on the porch and whiling away the hours during pleasant weather. Choosing the correct type of yard art and other decor to enhance this style is not time-consuming, thanks to the readily available supply of antiques and rustic-looking accessories. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Find an old, dilapidated wagon wheel to set against your house exterior. If you live in a farming community or know someone with an old barn, they are likely places to hunt for this type of item.

2. Hang a cast iron door knocker on your front door or a wreath decorated with cowboy spurs, a lasso, leather strips, feathers or horseshoes.

3. Set an old wooden chair somewhere in your lawn area. Plant morning glory seeds near each leg. They will climb up and twine around the chair as the vines grow.

4. Find a rusty wheelbarrow and fill it with dirt or put a wooden planter box down inside it. Select flowering plants for the wheelbarrow planter. Push it into a sunny or partially shady area depending on which types of plants you select.

5. Invest in metal shepherd hooks to hold wood or rustic-looking flower pots filled with flowering plants or cacti.

6. Position wood edging around your flower garden to create a rough-hewn perimeter. Another idea is to use wood beams for the perimeter.

7. Purchase some Adirondack chairs with a distressed finish to provide seating in your yard area. Another idea is a wrought iron bench.

Tags: Another idea, flowering plants, lawn area, type yard, your yard

Old Fence Styles

An example of a split-rail fence.

Fences are a common and useful landscaping feature that people have used throughout history for marking the boundary lines of properties, for keeping animals enclosed in certain areas, and for defining spaces within landscaping designs. While the oldest fences were simple and utilitarian in design, they grew in complexity and ornamentation as the years progressed. Does this Spark an idea?

Split-Rail Fences

According to Old House Journal, split-rail fences were some of the earliest fences to appear in the American colonies, and consisted of long horizontal rails, which workers would make by splitting logs. In most instances, there would be either two or three rows of rails, which ran in parallel. Posts would connect the long rails, and the design allowed the fences to stretch and snake over long tracts of land. While farmers originally used the fences for enclosing cattle, people also used them domestically, particularly in rural areas, up until the late 19th century.

Picket Fences

The picket fence style dates back to the late 18th century, when European settlers in North America made improvements to palings, according to Old House Journal. A paling was a medieval fence style, which workers made by sticking a series of rounded stakes or flat strips of wood into the ground. Picket fencing similarly emphasized the repetition of vertical elements, but also included two rails: one that ran across the tops of the uprights, or pickets, and one that ran across their bottoms. According to High Point Fence Company, today, picket fences are typically around 4 feet tall and have one-and-a-half-inch gaps between their pickets.

Classical

Between 1714 and 1850, three separate classical architectural styles became prominent in Europe and the American colonies. According to Old House Journal, these were the Georgian from 1714 to 1810, the Federal from 1790 to 1830, and the Greek revival from 1830 to 1850. All three styles had a similar effect on fencing, which resulted in more ornamentation. Classical fences often had top rails that covered pickets, as well as carved finials, or angular roof-like features, on fence posts. Fence designers during this era of classical revival also often incorporated motifs such as fruit and flames in the fencing they built. Eagles were a particularly popular motif during the Federal period.

Gothic

The Gothic Revival from 1830 to 1860 coincided with the end of its classical counterpart. Fencing from the period typically featured a number of medieval elements, such as ornamental stonework, or tracery, and pickets and posts with pointed tops, resembling spires. Quatrefoil and trefoil motifs, which feature four-lobed and three-lobed plants, respectively, were some of the most popular designs that people incorporated into Gothic-style fences.

Tags: House Journal, 1850 three, According House, According House Journal, American colonies

Care For An Antique Cast Iron Cook Stove

Rust is the number one enemy of cast iron.

If you have an antique cast iron cook stove, to keep it looking its best you need to do a bit of regular maintenance. Although your cook stove is not in use, it still requires upkeep and care.

Instructions

1. Scour any rust spots with a piece of steel wool. This may take a bit of elbow grease, but it should remove a rust spot that has just started to form. Use a clean cloth to remove the rust debris. You may need to take the stove apart to get to rust spots you cannot see.

2. Rub the finish of the cast iron with wax paper about once a month.Use a circular motion and rub until the iron surface shines. You can also take the stove apart and rub the wax paper on small spaces and corners. The wax forms a protective layer that will help prevent rust.

3. Rub the stove with vitamin E oil and a soft cloth to clean especially dingy areas. Just pour a small amount on the cloth and apply in a circular motion until it is evenly absorbed into the iron.

Tags: cast iron, circular motion, circular motion until, cook stove, motion until, remove rust

Remove Cabinet Shelves Held With Plastic Shelf Lock Supports

Most modern cupboards fix shelves with shelf-lock pegs.

Available in clear, white or beige, plastic shelf-lock supports for cabinets can be challenging to work with if you want to reposition the shelf or remove the shelf from the cabinet. The shelf-lock support is designed with a 1/4-inch peg on its backside that is inserted into a hole in the side panel inside the cabinet. The shelf lock has a projection on which the shelf rests and immediately above that shelf support is a projection that prevents the shelf from moving upward when pushed from beneath. This safety factor has several benefits, like preventing glasses on one shelf from toppling over when items are loaded on a lower shelf. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clear items from all shelves in the cabinet, even if you just want to reposition or remove one shelf. You need vertical space to tilt the shelf.

2. Push one end of the shelf to the opposite side of the cabinet, this creates a slight gap between the shelf and the wall of the cabinet.

3. Press your thumbs firmly against the lock portion of the two shelf supports at shelf level and on the same side of the cabinet. The "lock" portion is the vertical piece that slightly protrudes onto the top of the shelf. You may find it easiest to press the lock on just the front shelf holder first, where you will them to able to ever-so-slightly raise the shelf to hold the lock open. Repeat the process on the back lock. If you are unable to depress the locks with your thumbs, use a metal kitchen spatula to apply pressure to the lock, again, working the shelf up slightly to cover the depressed lock, preventing it from re-engaging.

4. Push the shelf up gently about 2 inches on the freed side so the shelf is on a slight angle. As you push up, the lower side of the shelf should pop free from the locks on the opposite of the cabinet.

5. Pull the plastic shelf supports from the sides of the cabinet and relocate them. If you will be removing the shelf, consider "storing" the shelf on the bottom of the cabinet and placing the shelf supports back into holes in the side of the cabinet. Alternately, put them in a small plastic bag and tape them to the shelf being stored.

Tags: shelf from, shelf supports, side cabinet, lock portion, Push shelf, remove shelf, side shelf

Install Box Newel Posts

A box newel is one way to elegantly support a stair rail.

A newel post is the terminal post at the top or bottom of a stair case. There are two primary types. Solid, or turned, newel posts are typically cut from a single piece of wood. Box newel posts are built up from separate pieces of lumber to create a square, hollow column that is usually trimmed with wood mouldings at top and bottom to give the post detail. The mounting procedure most commonly used is to install a block of wood to the step and slip the post over it, fastening it to the block. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the inside dimensions of the newel post at the bottom from front to back and left to right. Cut a piece of 2-inch-thick lumber to fit snugly inside the bottom of the newel post. Cut the dimensions 1/16 of an inch smaller than the measurement you took in each direction.

2. Position the block on the step, centered where the post will be located. Bore pilot holes, one in each corner of the block, with a 1/8-inch bit. Drill through the block and into the top of the stair. Use a countersink bit to countersink the top of each pilot hole slightly to make sure the mounting screw will be flush with the top of the block. A countersink bit cuts a cone shape at the top of the hole to allow room for the screw head.

3. Drive one 3-inch treated deck screw through each pilot hole in the block. Tighten the screws until the heads are flush with the top of the block.

4. Fit the newel post over the top of the block. Make sure that all four sides of the post are flush with the top of the stair. Drill two pilot holes on each side of the post, 3/4 inch up from the bottom and 1 inch in from each corner, so that that they run parallel to the stair top and into the edge of the block.

5. Drive one 1 5/8-inch treated deck screw through each hole in the post. Run the screws in until the heads are flush with the face of the newel post. Cover the screws with the base moulding of the post. Nail it in place with two finish nails on each face.

Tags: newel post, flush with, deck screw, deck screw through, each corner, each pilot

Decorating Ideas For A Longaberger Basket

Longaberger baskets are known for their quality and beauty. The company is most famous for their hand-crafted baskets, but they also make and sell other home accessories as well, including pottery. Longaberger baskets are sturdy and functional, but they are also highly attractive and can be used in the home for decorative purposes. Does this Spark an idea?

Accessories

Longaberger baskets have, made to fit, a number of decorative accessories sold by the same company. Seasonal liners can instantly dress up your basket. A Halloween liner, for example, is the perfect foil for a basket of candy or pile of small gourds and pumpkins. You can also place your basket in a decorative holder that matches the liner, or add a tie-on, which is a metal shape or word. The tie-ons are tied onto the basket and left to dangle down attractively over the basket's rim.

Plants

Longaberger baskets are made from maple, which is a very lightweight but durable and attractive wood. This makes these baskets perfect for holding and displaying plants. Protect the bottom of your basket with a plastic plant liner, and place a potted plant inside the basket to add a touch of fresh, green nature to any room. If the room is dimly lit, or you don't wish to have to care for a live plant, try using a silk plant instead. Choose ivy for baskets that have handles that will interfere with the vertical growth of the plant. Not only will ivy fit better, but the attractive trailing habit of the plant is the perfect decoration for these handmade baskets.

Ribbons

Ribbons are an economical and eye-catching way to decorate your Longaberger basket. Tie one around the handle and let the ends trail down into the center of the basket, or wrap a wired ribbon around the handle until it is completely covered. Alternately, fashion a large bow and attach it to the side of the basket with floral wire. Use seasonally-patterned ribbons and switch them out as the seasons change, or use a ribbon that matches your decor. Use raffia, for example, on a basket in a rustic, country-style decorated home.

Tags: Longaberger baskets, your basket, around handle, basket with, that matches

Find The Best Patio Heater

A patio fire pit can be used as a heater.

An outdoor patio heater can turn your patio into an extension of your living space and stretch your patio season from summer into fall and winter. Patio heaters have become important pieces of patio furniture and there are a wide variety of models available. Here's a guide for deciding which type of outdoor patio heater best suits your needs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose a patio fire pit for simplicity. Fire pits are the simplest and least expensive type of patio heaters, consisting of a container where a campfire can be build. A fire pit may be portable or can be installed in the ground and made a permanent part of a patio. There are many styles of fire pits available, from simple metal bowls to elaborate stone towers. The advantage of a fire pit is that it provides the atmosphere of a crackling outdoor fire.

2. Choose a patio chiminea for practicality. Mexican chimineas are gaining in popularity as patio heaters. A chiminea is a free-standing clay or metal pot with a wide opening at the bottom and a short chimney on top. In addition to providing the warmth and atmosphere of a fire, a chiminea patio heater can be used to add a touch of old world charm to an outdoor patio.

3. Choose a patio fireplace for elegance. An upscale type of patio heater is an outdoor patio fireplace. Some patio fireplaces are designed to resemble indoor fireplaces, complete with fire screens and mantels. Other patio fireplaces resemble cast-iron stoves. Patio fireplaces can be wood-burning or fueled by propane gas or electricity.

4. Use a standalone patio heater for versatility. Standalone heaters are the most versatile type of patio heaters. They consist of a freestanding post topped by a propane burner. The flames of the burner are enclosed by a screen. A standalone patio heater can provide the most consistent warmth, sending out heat for a radius of up to 20 feet. Many freestanding patio heaters use natural gas or propane for fuel. There are also freestanding electric and radiant patio heaters available.

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Paint Colors That Match A Spanish Tile Roof

White exterior paint matches original Spainsh tile roofs.

Clay tiles have a rich history that began around 10,000 BC. Early American Spanish settlers and missionaries used the a reliable roofing material. Spanish tile roofs are durable as they lack thermal conductivity and are easy to maintain. Interest in clay tiles was overcome by lighter, new fireproof materials by the 1830s. However, the popularity of Spanish Revival architecture keeps Spanish tiles in demand today. Several color variations now exist to cover the roofs of Mission and Spanish colonial style homes. Numerous exterior paint colors complement these terracotta fringed residential dwellings. Does this Spark an idea?

White

White complements most Spanish roof tile colors. It is an essential color solution that adorns the exteriors of Spanish colonial and Mission-style homes. This classic exterior paint color approach has extravagant presence and causes homes to look large, bold and attractive. White accentuates other Spanish style home details such as arched doorways and wooden doors. Sunlight falling on a white home with Spanish tiles creates a striking backdrop for towering palm tree shadows or those cast by wrought iron lighting fixtures.

Peach

Peach tones nearly three times lighter than terracotta tiles work well. Bring out the power of this color solution by selecting a medium and light peach exterior paint color for your home. Accentuate dominant architectural features with the lightest peach tone, and cover the rest of the home with the other one. Spanish colonial style homes sometimes feature sharp angles; a light peach tone may be used to soften these architectural features. Mediterranean greenery and verandas with red blooming flowers look dramatic against this two-tone peach exterior paint option.

Yellow

Yellow is an exterior paint color that adds a hint of color to homes with English and Mediterranean architectural features. Home designs of this variety couple terrecotta tile with decorative facade brickwork. Pale yellow is a color solution that harmonizes brick and Spanish tile colors effectively. Yellow picks up the color of Spanish tile without overpowering it. Adding white trim to a yellow home exterior accentuates the beauty of white roses bushes, shrubs or dainty white flowers.

Tags: exterior paint, architectural features, color solution, exterior paint color, paint color

Information On Cast Iron Nickel Plated Miniature Stoves

Miniature stoves often came with tiny accessories.

Miniature, cast iron nickel plated stoves were made from the late 1800s up to the 1950s. They were used as salesman samples, window displays and toys. The stoves were manufactured by many different companies including Ideal, Kenton, McClary's and Karr.

Stove Details

Miniature stoves were made of cast iron from highly detailed molds. Sometimes the whole stove was then plated in nickel. Usually, just parts of the stove or its trim were nickel-plated. The stoves ranged in size from 10 inches to 30 inches across. They were finely cast with sharp details and intricate decoration.

Toy Stoves

Toy miniature stoves were made by major toy companies. Their name is usually stamped into the stove. They can be found in original boxes confirming their intended use as toys. There is confusion among collectors about tell if a miniature stove is a toy, salesman model or advertising prop. The toy stoves had many movable parts and often came with many accessories.

Salesman Samples

Salesman sample, miniature, cast iron, nickel-plated stoves were exact reproductions of actual stove models for sale. The tiny stoves were carried door to door and shown by salesmen to potential customers. These stoves were working versions of the full size stoves. They were sometimes used by young girls as toys to learn the basics of cooking.

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Decorate With Primitives

Twig baskets make practical decorative accessories.

The primitive decorating style embraces decorative items that are literally a little rough around the edges. It draws its inspiration from the early days of America. Decorative items were often functional and items made for purely decorative reasons showed the rough handiwork of the early settler taking a break from other chores. Although the old days have long since passed, the touch of primitive decorating styles of old can still be seen in country styles today. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Decorate the fireplace with pottery crocks and cast iron skillets and pans. Primitive style embraced the activities of day-to-day living. Cast iron skillets, old pots and the big Dutch oven all figured prominently in the living room/kitchen area. Look for crocks that look like they're homemade and place them in groups of three or five by the mouth of the fireplace. Hang the pots and pans from nails that you've pounded into the mantel.

2. Store items like knitting supplies, magazines and extra blankets in twig baskets of various sizes. The more handmade the baskets look, the better. Place these at the end of the couch, on built-in shelves or hang them from the rafters if they have handles.

3. Decorate an unused corner with hand-carved sculptures and figurines. These sculptures usually come in the primary colors or earth tones and look a little dull in appearance, because they're not painted with glossy paint. You can make these look seasonal by choosing seasonally appropriate items like Santas in the winter and country kids in the spring.

4. Throw handmade quilts over the back of the sofa and fill some open shelves in the hallway with quilts rolled up in thick bundles. If you have a cupboard in the living room, replace the doors with chicken wire and store the quilts in there to become part of the decor of the living room or den.

5. Hang some primitive and folk art. Some appropriate choices include work by Warren Kimble and Grandma Moses as well as hand-painted signs decorated with ribbon. Add some primitive candle wall sconces to the display for extra light. Swags made of dried berries and twine finish the look.

6. Show off an antique doll collection on an old bench. If the dolls look a bit tattered and worn, that's even better. Look for dolls with sawdust-filled heads, hand-stitched clothes and worn leather or cloth shoes.

7. Gravitate toward furniture that looks handmade. The chairs of your table can be slightly mismatched. The rocker should look a little rough.

8. Bring a simple dash of color to your kitchen table by decorating it with a pale full of fresh flowers from your garden. An antique granite ware watering can or an old-fashioned milk bucket would be appropriate.

Tags: living room, iron skillets, items like, little rough, look little

Make A Mediterraneanstyle Patio Area

Water features are often included in Mediterranean patio decor.

The Mediterranean region refers to the geographical areas surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. From Spain and Morocco to Greece and Turkey, the Mediterranean is known for warm nights, warm landscapes and fertile farmlands. Though no single description can adequately relate the decorating style of all of these countries, the term "Mediterranean style" captures a relaxed, colorful and sun-loving decor that can easily be replicated on your home patio. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Include a space for entertainment on your patio, even if it is a small one. In the Mediterranean, the garden is the favored place for meeting with family and friends. Set up an outdoor dining area or picnic table. Choose rustic, sturdy furniture made from wood or cast iron.

2. Place a water feature where it can be heard or seen from all areas on your patio. Water features are common in Mediterranean outdoor spaces not only for their pleasing sound but for the cooling effect they provide on hot afternoons. Choose an elaborate, cascading fountain or a simple table-top version, as your space allows, and make your patio more authentically Mediterranean.

3. Paint and decorate your patio in colors common to Mediterranean decor. These colors include earthy tones such as terracotta and natural tones of brown that are accented with splashes of cobalt blue, sunflower yellow and bright orange. Install terracotta tiles, if possible. Paint or stain concrete patios in terracotta colors. Accent your patio with outdoor art that is reminiscent of the Mediterranean region such as urns, tile mosaics or a clay chimenea for evening fires.

4. Place plants such as lavender, rosemary, coreopsis, sunflower, thyme and geraniums in terracotta pots around your patio. If possible, continue the Mediterranean-style landscape into your yard with olive trees, citrus trees and palms.

5. Accent your Mediterranean-style patio with lighting fixtures and sturdy candle holders made from iron. Iron gates, trellises and arches will also add more touches of the regional flair you desire.

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What Are All The Parts Needed For A Remodel Of A Staircase

A stair railing like this one is typically comprised of at least a handrail and posts.

If you're remodeling your staircase, you should learn the names of all the parts of your staircase so you can order new items. The parts of the staircase needed for a staircase remodel depend on the depth of your remodeling project. If you're only replacing a single tread on your stairs and painting it, you probably don't need to learn much about balusters. Does this Spark an idea?

Treads

The treads on your staircase are the part of the stair where your foot falls and you step. You can have a wide or narrow tread, depending on the design of the staircase. Treads are made from a wide variety of materials, including wood and metal. In most cases, you can get replacement treads in the size you want from your local home improvement store or a specialty store.

Risers

The visible part of the stair that holds the treads in place is the riser. In some cases, such as in many metal staircases, a riser is not required. Risers are common in wood stairs. You can often replace a riser if needed with a simple piece of wood. Unlike treads, which may have decorative edging, risers are typically basic in style and form.

Rails & Balusters

The rail on your staircase, which you hold onto as you come up and down the stairs, is typically comprised of a handrail and balusters. Any type of pole that holds the handrail up is usually referred to as a baluster. You can have simple straight, dowel-like balusters or more elaborate wrought-iron options. If your stair rail is a simple rail attached to a wall, it's a handrail.

Posts

The large vertical elements between rail section are called posts. Like fence posts, rail posts are used to connect multiple sections of rail together. The most commonly known post is the post at the bottom of a set of stairs, which is called the newel post. Newel posts are often decorative and are frequently larger than any other post featured in a staircase railing.

Hardware

Your staircase or staircase railing can include a wide range of hardware options. From shoes, which hold wrought-iron balusters in place against the floor, to handrail brackets, which attach simple handrails directly to the wall, staircase hardware comes in many forms. You may not need them once your remodel is complete, depending on the items you use in your remodel.

Floor Covering

The final piece to any staircase is the floor covering. You can simply paint or stain your stairs, or you can apply a flooring cover option, like tile, laminate or carpeting. Before you begin tearing anything else on your staircase apart, remove the flooring. Hidden problems, like adhesive treads or a cracked riser, are often lurking under old flooring, and you'll need to know about the problem before you pick up supplies.

Tags: your staircase, part stair, staircase railing, that holds, typically comprised

Make Your Own Garden Growlight Shelves

Metal/wire shelf units can look different.

Many plants require substantial amounts of light for photosynthesis, especially when they're started from seeds. Delicate seedlings are not ready to be planted until the last frost has passed, so many gardeners start the growing process inside, which limits sunlight exposure. Make your own garden grow-light shelves to help provide the light these plants need, while also giving you a place to keep your plants organized. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Assemble your shelving unit(s) as the manufacturer's instructions describe. Make sure you have connected all the parts tightly.

2. Hang the first light from the ceiling directly above the top shelf of your assembled shelving unit. Mark the ceiling for your eye hooks with a pencil by holding the chains outstretched to the ceiling and marking where the hooks or S-hooks touch. Screw two eye hooks into the ceiling on your marks. Depending on the manufacturer, your eye hooks might be included with your shop light and hanging chains, but if not you can purchase the two eye hooks that you need.

3. Place the hooks that are attached to the light's hanging chain into the holes of the eye hooks. Adjust the height of your ceiling mounted shop light so that it is about 2 inches from the top of your seedling or containers by moving the hooks that are connected to the chain down the necessary number of links.

4. Thread the chains of another shop light through one of the wires that make the shelf part of the unit. You will bring the chain through the gap between two wire sections and wrap around. Then, you can use the chain's hook to secure in place by connecting the free end of the hook to a chain link, similar to attaching the chain hook to the eye hook. If you have too much extra chain to maintain the proper 2-inch distance, you can stretch the chain across the width of the shelf and then connect the hook to a chain link.

5. Repeat the process of hanging a shop light from the wire shelf for all your remaining shelves and lights.

6. Plug your lights into a power strip. Plug your light timer into the wall socket and program it, following the manufacturer's instructions, to turn off the lights after about 16 hours and turn them back on eight hours after shutoff.

7. Plug your power strip into the light timer. If you need to use an extension cord it should be one that accepts three prong plugs and then plug the power strip into one end and the prong end into the light timer.

Tags: shop light, hooks that, light timer, Plug your, power strip

Cheap Backyard Ideas

A backyard view

The backyard of a house can often be neglected in terms of decorating budgets, but it can easily be turned into a comfortable and inviting haven for all to enjoy. The key to decorating your backyard on a budget is to be creative in how you fill the space and where to shop for items. With patience and a little work you can easily turn a hum-drum outdoor space into your perfect backyard retreat.

Furniture

Wicker furniture for an outdoor patio

Wicker, weather treated wood, wrought iron and plastic are all great ideas for backyard furniture. Although furniture can be an expensive lump-sum purchase, it does not always have to be. Mix and match outdoor furniture so you are able to add to it as you find new pieces. You will be able to create a sense of homogeneity with different accents such as seat cushions, design styles or even by painting different pieces to create a matching feel. Explore different options using cinder blocks as table bases or bringing unused household furniture outdoors.

Lighting

Candle accents on a table

A state of the art outdoor lighting system may not fit into your budget but that does not mean you can't enjoy your backyard after the sun goes down. Tiki torches can help set an outline of your backyard and also add light while warding off pesky nighttime bugs. Using candles outdoors is not only a great way to increase atmosphere but to add pleasant accents to the space in the daylight. Try different sizes of candles to create a mixture, place them sparingly throughout the space or grouped in one location for various looks. To line a walk way or add a touch of accent lighting, try solar powered outdoor lights, which charge by day and last well into the night. These lights now come in various forms from lantern style to mimicking rocks, so you'll be able to find a style that suits your taste and decor.

Accents

Mason jars used as flower vases.

Choosing accents for your backyard can really show your creative side. Mix store-bought items with rustic items from an antique store, use drinking glasses for flower vases or painted coffee cans for plant holders. Use color to add special touches to fabric seat cushions and create cohesion throughout your backyard space. Flowers and landscaping do not have to be expensive and over the top, but maintaining what you have can make a big difference in its appearance. Accents can add greatly to your backyard space and are your chance to bring a sense of home to the outdoors.

Where to Shop

Garage sales are a great place to find deals on outdoor patio furniture and other items such as china pieces, dishes, vases and such, to add that special touch to your backyard retreat. Stores such as Good Will and Habitat for Humanity Re-stores often have pieces you can easily incorporate into your design and often at a discounted price. Large retailers such as Pier 1 Imports have yearly sales with large discounts at the end of a season. Although it may not work for you right now, it is always okay to keep items in mind for the next upcoming season and stock up while the price is right.

Tags: your backyard, into your, able find, backyard retreat, backyard space, flower vases, outdoor patio