Buy Shelf Brackets

Adding shelving to your home is a great way to make more storage space or give you somewhere to show off your pictures and decorations. Shelf brackets are the backbone to your shelves and knowing what to look for when buy shelf brackets will make your shopping experience much easier. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Decide the functionality and appearance you want from your shelf before you buy. There are many options with shelf brackets, ranging from very ornate to a simple piece of metal. The ornate shelf brackets will probably work great for your living room, but there is no real need to spend that much money on garage shelving, so be sure to know what you need from the bracket.

2. Pick an L-shaped metal bracket for the functional, cheap option if appearance is not that much of an issue. These metal brackets are functional and are a great way to throw up some quick shelves in a closet, tool shed or garage. They are also the least expensive and available at almost all retailers and home improvement stores.

3. Choose a decorative, flush-mounting wooden shelf bracket if you need style as well as function. These brackets can come in many different types of wood and in several different styles. Finding the perfect fit may take a while and you will have to pay a little more, but the result should keep you happy. There are also decorative metal and wrought iron shelf brackets if you want something other than wood.

4. Opt for an adjustable shelf bracket for added flexibility. Adjustable shelf brackets use a pair of tracks to mount vertically on your wall and brackets that fit into the tracks so that you can adjust the height of the shelves. This is a good storage solution on a budget.

5. Get a folding shelf bracket if you are not going to use your shelf all the time. A folding shelf bracket will give you the option of laying the shelf down against the wall when you are not using it, which can be a good space saver.

6. Find a glass shelf bracket for a glass shelf. If you are using a pre-cut piece of glass for a shelf, get a special bracket that will fit that thickness of glass and support the glass better than a normal shelf bracket.

7. Measure the shelf to make sure that the bracket can support it. Shelf brackets come in many different sizes so be sure to know the size of the shelf before you buy. Also, keep in mind that you may need more than one or two brackets if it is a long shelf. Make sure that there is enough support for what you will be placing on the shelf; it is better to err on the side of too many brackets.

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Porch Furniture Of The 1950s

1950s porch furniture styles continue to be used.

In the 1950s, prospering middle-class American families began their move to the suburbs. With the baby boom in full swing and houses filled to the brim, suburbanites retreated to the outdoors. Back yards, porches and barbecue pits were decorated with the iconic furniture of the period. Comfort and practicality were paramount in these streamlined metal pieces, and their bright colors reflected the optimism of the times. Does this Spark an idea?

History

Mid-century modern suburbanites enjoyed entertaining and relaxing outdoors, and the market responded. One of the first companies to begin mass-producing the distinctive 1950s metal porch furniture was CandyBouncers. The company's ''Motel Chairs'' were designed to float on grass and move with a gentle rocking motion. Post-World-War-II steel factories switched to producing lawn chairs and porch gliders, and they soon became ubiquitous. Sears Roebuck & Co. was a major supplier of metal porch furniture. Over the course of a decade, nationwide sales of lawn and porch furniture soared from $53 million in 1950 to $145 million in 1960.

Metal Gliders

The metal glider is an iconic 1950s porch furnishing. In previous decades, porch gliders were made of natural wood by Amish craftsmen and other woodworkers. Metal, however, became the material of choice in the 1950s. It was lighter than wood and could be fashioned into brightly colored modern styles. The roomy, rectangular love seat or the chair glider were a perfect match for metal. Backs and seats often had piecrust or lattice cutouts to prevent water from pooling. Cushions were often added to increase comfort. The moving suspension allowed the gliders to smoothly float forward and backward, the ideal motion for rocking a baby to sleep or snuggling with a loved one.

Metal Rockers

Another piece of porch furniture popular in the 1950s was the metal rocker, or motel chair. This single or double chair had curved metal armrests that curled to the ground, allowing it to rock. The back was sometimes tulip-shaped, and the chairs came in colors such as peach, turquoise, lime green, red, purple and white. Matching metal tables also were sold.

Revival

A revival of 1950s-style metal porch furniture began in the early 2000s. Vintage pieces were restored and sold, and companies began manufacturing reproductions. CandyBouncer resumed production of its motel chairs in 2003. Frontgate and other high-end companies added lines of vintage patio furniture. The new pieces were labeled ''retro'' and made in bright colors popular in the 1950s.

Tags: porch furniture, metal porch, metal porch furniture, 1950s metal, bright colors, pieces were, popular 1950s

Appraise Cast Iron Banks

Appraise Cast Iron Banks

Collectors of cast-iron banks are often attracted to the nostalgia of the item. However, these banks are also collectible because of their value. Antique banks sell well at auction, in antique stores and on the Internet. You can still find valuable banks at garage sales, flea markets, or even in a relative's attic. Learning a few methods for appraising a bank lets you know when you have found one that will appreciate in value.

Instructions

1. Verify you don't have a reproduction. There are many reproduction cast-iron banks on the market. Your bank's value depends on it being a vintage model. Look at how it is made. Pay attention to the screws. If the bank is held together by Phillips-head screws, it is a modern bank. Look at the condition of the iron. In a vintage piece, the cast iron will be dark, free from rust, and smooth. A newer bank will have a silvery cast, may have rust, and often will have sharp edges.

2. Look at the condition. A vintage bank is expected to have some wear to the paint. If the paint looks too perfect or bright, the bank may be a reproduction or has been repainted. Repainting a vintage bank hurts its value. Also, look for any signs that the piece has been restored, such as parts made out of thinner, cheaper metal than the original cast iron. This adversely affects value.

3. Refer to value guides. Visit your local library or a bookstore to check out price guides for cast-iron banks. If you cannot find your bank, look at the prices of banks with similar attributes, those from the same time period, or pieces from the same manufacturer. Studying these prices will help you appraise your bank. Some metal bank value guides include "The Official Price Guide to Mechanical Banks" by Dan Morphy, "Collectors Encyclopedia Toys-Banks: Cast Iron, Tin Wind-Up, Autos & More With Prices" by L-W Book Sales, and "The Penny Bank Book: Collecting Still Banks" by Andy and Susan Moore.

4. Investigate the resale market. Studying what cast iron banks are getting on the open market is a good way to assess the appraisal value of your own collection. If you have an antiques or collectibles store in your area that carries a selection of banks, start there. In addition, go to large online dealers and see how they are pricing their inventory. Check an Internet auction house such as eBay. There you will see an extensive and rapidly changing selection of banks. Read the descriptions carefully to get the most information about each piece. In order to see the final auction prices on eBay, you must set up a free account.

5. Consult a professional. If you need an appraisal value on your collection for insurance purposes, your best bet is to get a written appraisal from a professional. Contact the American Society of Appraisers or the International Society of Appraisers to find an appraiser who has expertise in assessing the value of antique cast-iron banks.

Tags: cast-iron banks, appraisal value, appraisal value your, Appraise Cast, Appraise Cast Iron

How Are Wrought Iron Rails Made

How Are Wrought Iron Rails Made?

An Ancient Craft

Wrought or "worked" iron is a material that was first used by the ancient craftsmen of China and Rome for decorative and domestic items, such as doors and furniture. Cast iron, the metal of choice for the early Industrial Age, was economical but unable to carry heavy loads. Wrought iron was stronger than cast iron and oxidized more slowly due to its denser structure. It eventually became the material of choice for load-bearing structures like bridges and buildings. The reign of wrought iron as a building material was short--just about a single century. By the end of the 19nth century, it had been largely replaced by cheap, easy to produce steel. Up to half as expensive to produce, steel was far less labor-intensive and less likely to bend under stress than wrought iron, important qualities as the age of the skyscraper dawned. The hand-crafted nature of wrought iron, though, still makes it the material of choice for restorations, particularly in grille work and railings.

Smelting and Puddling

Iron is a mineral; iron ore comes from the ground, threaded through rocks and intertwined with other minerals. The first step toward making wrought iron is to grind the rock and separate the ore from the rock, often using giant pans and screens reminiscent of the ones that gold prospectors used to use. This ore is not pure. It contains other minerals and must be melted to draw off the extra minerals. Most of these minerals float to the top of the molten iron as "slag" which is drawn off the top of the ore. A silica-based slag is left in the molten iron and the iron super-heated to burn off (or oxidize) excess carbon and then drawn out of the oven for use. Medieval furnaces used charcoal to cook iron ore but by the 19th century, indirect heating in coal furnaces were the norm. Steel was drawn from the chamber and stirred, or "puddled," to draw off vaporized impurities including carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. Today, only a few smelters of wrought iron remain.

Working the Iron

Once it is drawn from the smelting oven, the hot iron is fashioned into sheets or rods of various sizes and shapes. Iron is re-heated until it glows red-hot. The iron "smith" holds the piece with heavy iron tongs and works it gradually into shape with a variety of pounding, shaping and turning tools until the piece takes its final shape. The smith may need to re-heat the piece several times to achieve the final shape. When the posts, rails and decorations are all made, a welder will assemble and join them to form a finished railing.

Tags: drawn from, final shape, Iron Rails, Iron Rails Made, material choice

Install Iron Balusters On Open Riser Stairs

Many porches use open riser stairs with iron balusters.

Iron baluster manufacturers create balusters with many different designs, from plain wrought iron stock to balusters with intricate designs along their length. Iron balusters fence in the space between a stair's handrail and its stringer or treads. Stairs with an open riser do not contain a kick plate in the vertical area between its treads. Iron balusters typically measure 44 inches long. Many local building codes require that open riser stairs have 4 inches of lift between each tread and that iron balusters must be installed with 4 inches or less space between each other. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Lay out the balusters' placement along the bottom of the handrail, using a tape measure and pencil, and using your local building code as a spacing guide. Start at the top post and place a pencil mark under the handrail at the appropriate spacing.

2. Transfer the layout marks from the handrail to either the stringer or the open-riser stair's tread, using a plumb bob. Hold the plum bob's string on the handrail's pencil mark, and place a pencil mark where the plumb bob's weight meets the stringer or tread. If the open-riser stairs do not use a stringer and the balusters do not lay out evenly on each tread, adjust the baluster's spacing until each tread contains the same amount of evenly spaced balusters.

3. Drill a 1-inch-deep hole at each layout mark on the tread or stringer, using an electric drill equipped with a 5/8-inch drill bit. Most open-riser stairs use treads that are 1-1/2 inches thick. Do not drill completely through the open riser's tread.

4. Drill a 1-1/2- to 2-inch-deep hole at each layout mark on the handrail, using the electric drill and 5/8-inch drill bit. If the stairs use a 2-inch-thick handrail, drill a 1-1/2-inch-deep hole. If the stairs use a handrail 2-1/2 inches or more thick, drill a 2-inch-deep hole. Do not drill completely through the handrail.

5. Place an iron baluster next to each set of holes.

6. Measure the space between the handrail and the stringer or tread at each set of holes, and add 1-1/2 inches to the measurement. Transfer the total length to the appropriate baluster.

7. Cut the baluster to length with a hacksaw. Each iron baluster should have a measurement 1-1/2 inches greater than the spacing between its set of holes.

8. Place a shoe --- the trim piece --- on both ends of each baluster. The manufacturer supplies the shoes with the balusters.

9. Slide each baluster into its respective set of holes. Push the top of the baluster into the hole in the handrail, and position the bottom of the baluster over its hole in the stringer or tread. Drop the baluster into the hole in the tread or stringer.

10. Wrap the top of the baluster next to the handrail with masking tape.

11. Fill the spaces around the balusters' holes in the handrail and the tread or stringer with epoxy. The masking tape protects the top of the baluster from dripping epoxy. Let the epoxy set before continuing.

12. Remove the masking tape from the iron baluster.

13. Position the shoes over the holes that hold the iron balusters in place. Lock the shoes in place with the correct size of Allen wrench.

Tags: open riser, 2-inch-deep hole, baluster into, each tread, masking tape, pencil mark

Attach A Railing To Vinyl Siding

Secure porch railings to vinyl siding with brackets and screws.

Vinyl siding is a durable, easy-to-clean material commonly used on both new construction and in the renovation of older homes but since it is thin, specialized brackets designed to support additional weight must be used to attach railings to it. People holding onto railings also put pressure on the siding, so installing them correctly protects your house and investment. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure and mark the spot where the bottom of the railing will attach to the vinyl siding with a pencil.

2. Cut a rectangle in the vinyl siding long enough for the angle bracket to fit through with vinyl siding snips; the cutout needs to be slightly longer than 6 inches and as wide as the bracket to allow the bracket to fit through easily.

3. Pop the cut piece of vinyl siding free by pulling on it gently. Pull up gently on the piece of siding that contains the bottom of the cut-out rectangle to lift it up enough for you to slip the bracket up and behind it and pull it through the slit. Trim the slit and bend the vinyl as needed to fit around the bracket snugly. Push the bottom of the loosened piece of siding back into place.

4. Screw the bracket into the house using wood screws or masonry screws, whichever corresponds to the wall material under your siding.

5. Caulk around the bracket it to fill any gaps and prevent moisture from collecting underneath the vinyl. Insert a tube of silicone caulk into the caulking gun and squeeze the trigger to fill the space left between the bracket and the vinyl. Use your finger to smooth the ridge of caulk if necessary.

6. Secure the railing to the bracket with screws or anchor pins, whichever is appropriate per the manufacturer's instructions.

7. Repeat Steps 1 through 6 as necessary at each point where the railing needs to attach to the siding.

Tags: vinyl siding, around bracket, bracket through, piece siding, siding with, vinyl siding

Paint Metal Gates

Apply a fresh coat of paint to your metal gates

A stunning metal gate can provide a welcoming accent to a home or garden, while a worn and dull-looking gate can detract from the natural beauty of the house. When gates are in need of a refresher, it is best to apply a handsome coat of fresh paint. By preparing the surface of the metal and priming any rust spots, you can ensure that the paint goes on smoothly and lasts. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Spread out a series of drop clothes around the metal gate to protect any vegetation surrounding the gate and ground.

2. Scrape any rust off of the gate using a stiff-bristled wire brush.

3. Smooth the rust spots using a 120-grit sandpaper.

4. Thoroughly wipe down the gate using a rag to clear away any remaining dirt and debris.

5. Apply an exterior metal primer onto the spots sanded down and affected by the rust. For rust spots that are heavily pitted, apply the primer with a paintbrush to ensure that the entire surface receives a solid coating. For the remaining spots, use a primer available in spray can format. Using a spray can is easier and also reduces brush strokes on the gate.

6. Allow the primer to completely dry for 6 to 8 hours, then spray on the finishing coat of enamel paint. Be sure to find a metal paint that is compatible with your choice of primer. Allow the gate to dry completely for 24 hours, then remove the drop cloths.

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The Height Of A Fence For Dog Kennels

A chain link fence provides strength and durability as well as height.

According to the DogsBite.org website, a tragedy occurred in Fontana, California when "five dogs reportedly escaped through holes in a fence and attacked a mother and her four children." Fences can be important for keeping dogs in as well as keeping other dogs out. The required height of a fence is dependent on a number of factors. But a good fence will help with safety and security.

Dog Type

The size of a dog can help determine the height of the fence needed for the kennel area. Small dogs may not require a six foot high fence while larger dogs might. If the dog is a jumper, a higher fence can deter the behavior. A jumping or climbing dog, regardless of size, can also benefit from a fence that leans inward at the top. Dogs that love to dig should have a fence that goes underground as well. Smaller dogs need to have a fence they cannot squeeze through.

Kennels

Kennels can range in size, shape and structure. They can have roofs or be open. The Classy Pet Shop website encourages "considering the size of the dog, the number of dogs enclosed in the kennel and the relative energy level of the dog(s)" while choosing the right dog kennel. Modular kennels offer affordability by coming in panels that connect together to create the kennel. They can also be taken down and reassembled should the modular kennel need to be moved. A do-it-yourself kennel kit is also affordable but requires more work to put together and generally comes in smaller sizes. Another option is to simply build the kennel yourself, which gives you the option of choosing the materials, height and width.

Wood Fences

Wood fences come in a variety of looks and are more pleasing to the eye. A wooden fence such as the picket fence provides security because the dog is not able to slip out between the slats or posts. The Dog Owner’s Guide website states that "installing at the proper height for your breed, they are a very strong dog containment system." The option for a solid wood privacy fence allows for security. Wood fences can be built at any height but typically are four or six feet high.

Metal / Wire Fences

The chain link fence is made of heavy duty wire and is very strong. The diamond-like holes limit dogs from poking any body parts through. It is available in a variety of heights. The snow fence and the farm fence are much like the chain link fence but the wire is not as durable. They also come in a variety of heights. The wrought iron fence is another nice looking way to keep your dog in but while they provide the needed height, a small to medium sized dog may fit between the bars or be able to squeeze underneath.

Invisible Fences

The invisible fence is an electronic fence that is placed underground. It eliminates the need for figuring out what fence height is needed for a specific size dog. The dog needs to wear a special collar that has a receiver and when he tries to cross the electronic fence he receives a shock to discourage him from going any further. This type of fence may help keep him in but it does not keep others out.

Tags: chain link, chain link fence, fence that, link fence, come variety, electronic fence

Make A Pvc Gazebo

Make a gazebo from PVC pipe.

PVC is light and can be assembled fairly quickly using adhesives and connectors. However, PVC structures are easily blown over in the wind unless they are anchored to the ground. PVC gazebos should have one or more screw-in tie-down anchors for each post or the posts need to be set in concrete. The instructions below call for cementing the posts. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Purchase a cloth-covered octagonal gazebo top of your desired diameter. Choose the location of your gazebo. If you have a large yard with multiple vistas, center your gazebo so that you will be able to enjoy all of them.

2. Assemble your gazebo top according to the manufacturer's instructions. Lay the top on the ground where you intend to build your gazebo. Mark the eight corners with stakes. Remove the top and and run survey tape from one stake to the next. Measure the distance between each stake to determine how long the eight PVC poles that will create the top frame should be. Dig 2-foot deep post holes just inside the survey tape at each of the eight corners.

3. Assemble the top frame of your gazebo. Apply PVC cement to one end of one of the PVC poles you've cut for the top frame. Allow the cement to dry until tacky. Insert the pipe into a three-way connector. Continue until you have all eight pipes connected in an octagon, with the third connection at each point facing the sky.

4. Apply PVC cement to 1 inch of one end of each 10-foot long PVC pipe. Insert the coated end into the third connection of each corner of the gazebo frame. When the adhesive has had time to dry, get one or more assistants to help you lift and flip the frame. Move it until each pipe is set into one of the holes you dug in Step 2.

5. Backfill each hole with flat sided gravel. Mix quick-drying cement in a wheelbarrow according to package directions. Fill each hole with concrete.

6. Hang a plumb bob from a spirit level set on top of each corner of the gazebo one at a time. Adjust the posts until they are vertical and even with the plumb line. Brace the posts until the cement dries to keep them straight.

7. Attach the fabric-covered top to your gazebo according to the manufacturer's directions.

Tags: your gazebo, according manufacturer, Apply cement, connection each, corner gazebo

Ideas For Mexican Decorating

Maybe you vacationed in Mexico and fell in love with the vibrant colors and equally vibrant lifestyle. Perhaps you just need some color in your life or feel the need to make a bold statement. Mexican decor fulfills all of those requirements. There are no subtle moves in Mexican decorating. These tips will help you bring your home to life in an explosion of colorful textiles, paint and larger-than-life furniture pieces that demand to be noticed. Does this Spark an idea?

Vibrant Colors

Mexican decorating requires, absolutely requires, vibrant color. Burnt oranges and deep yellows are a staple of Mexican color. Various shades of green work well in powder rooms and bedrooms. The key here is vibrant. The colors are a testament to life--a vivacious life.

Colors need not be found only in the paint. Color can be added with dried flowers and vegetables. Dried peppers and herbs are a fabulous addition to the kitchen and eating areas. Dried flowers are great in the living room, bedroom and bathroom.

Terra Cotta is a Must

Few things bring out the feeling of Mexican decor like terra cotta. Terra-cotta tiles in the kitchen, foyer and bathrooms give an earthy, Mexican flavor to any home. Depending on the architectural style of your home you can tile the entire house in terra cotta. It's durable and colorful.

Use terra cotta for back splashes in the kitchen. This easy to clean material is as functional as it is beautiful. It adds contrast to most counter tops and complements bold paint colors.

Make Use of Various Materials

A Mexican serape or saltillo blanket can liven up a leather sofa or rocker. But you needn't stop there. Use a serape in place of a rug in the kitchen or living room. The colors, the fringe, the feel of it under your feet are all ways to add a sense of true Mexican energy to a room with this textile favorite.

Wrought iron is used often in Mexican homes. The heavy iron adds depth to any room. Wrought iron wall sconces with earth-toned candles are one suggestion. For a bolder statement, consider a wrought-iron chandelier. If you have a staircase with wood spindles, you may want to replace them with wrought iron to add contrast and intensity.

Furniture Choices

When decorating in Mexican style remember that Mexican furniture is usually heavy and large. Don't mistake that for traditional overstuffed furniture. Large leather sofas, wrought iron and glass coffee tables and large oak armoires are also used in this style of decor.

It is essential to remember that when adding a Mexican feel to a room that none of the furniture should match. Walk into any Mexican home or restaurant and you will find that end tables don't match, lamps don't match. It's part of the Old World charm associated with Mexican decor. It is reminiscent of inherited treasures from long ago mixed with newer, modern pieces. It creates a comfortable, nostalgic feeling that tends to put people at ease immediately.

Tags: Mexican decor, terra cotta, living room, remember that, vibrant colors

Maintain Iron Fences

Maintain the majestic beauty of your iron fence.

A wrought-iron fence can lend to your home and property a variety of moods, from menacing to elegant and stately. Iron fencing is sturdy and will not mildew or rot like wood structures can over times. An iron fence is easy to care for, but does require regular maintenance, particularly after a wet winter. A run-down iron fence not only detracts from the attractiveness of your home, but can become a hazard to passersby as well. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Rinse your iron fence with water from the garden house to remove dirt, mud and other debris that may have built up on the surface. Clear drainage areas near your fence to ensure the water will run free without pooling at the bottom of the structure. Constant exposure to excess moisture can produce rust.

2. Remove rust and chipped paint flakes with a wire brush as soon as you notice them. Wrought-iron fences should be painted to avoid further damage.

3. Wash the rusted portion of the fence with dish detergent and water; dish detergent is a non-ionic cleanser that won't interact with the rusted metal. Dry the fence with toweling or allow it to dry in the sun.

4. Touch up rust areas of your fence with an oil-based primer and rust-proof paint. Oil-based products are compatible with metals and will reduce the need to repaint often.

5. Fix bent sections of iron through the use of heat. Use a propane blow torch to heat the damaged sections and hammer them back into the proper shape.

6. Choose rust-free hinging and other gate accessories for your wrought-iron fence. The gate is most likely a part of your iron fence that you use every day, and can become stuck open or shut if riddled with rust.

Tags: iron fence, fence with, your iron, your iron fence, dish detergent

Clean Rust Off Cast Iron With Cleaning Agents

Salt and cooking oil can be used to remove rust from cast iron.

Cast iron cookware or appliances with rust less than 1/8 inch thick can be quickly restored to cooking shape. The most helpful and only widely recommended cleaning agents to remove the rust from pans are salt, vegetable or similar oil, dish soap and water. Commercial cleaners for larger cast iron appliances like stoves can be found at many hardware stores. Proper seasoning after the rust is cleaned off is key to preventing the rust from forming again quickly. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pour 2 to 4 tbsp. -- depending on the pan or structure size -- of salt into the middle of the rusted cast iron.

2. Add an equal amount of vegetable oil to the salt.

3. Rub the salt and oil vigorously on the cast iron using the rag or towel. Focus on rusted spots but cover the entire pan or appliance.

4. Add more salt or oil if needed.

5. Rub persistent rust spots with the fine steel wool.

6. Wash the cast iron appliance with dish soap.

7. Rinse the cast iron pan or appliance well with hot water and dry completely.

8. Season the cast iron pan to prevent rusting by coating it with oil, heating it for an hour at 250 degrees Fahrenheit and avoid using soap to clean the pan in the future.

Tags: cast iron, rust from, cast iron, cast iron appliance, dish soap, iron appliance

Decorate A Rock Fireplace

Nothing creates country charm in a room better than a rock fireplace. Recalling the days of an earlier time, this style of fireplace is still popular, particularly in the western United States, where river rock is plentiful. Balance is the key to decorating the fireplace and the surrounding area. Accessories should enhance but not overshadow the fireplace. By choosing vibrant, warm colors and accessories, such as antiques and old family photos, the rock fireplace can become the centerpiece of any room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Assess the décor in the rest of the room where the fireplace is located. In terms of creating visual unity, select accessories for your rock fireplace that don't clash with the decorating themes you already have in place.

2. Consider hanging a rustic-looking tapestry on the rock above the mantel. The softness and pliability of tapestries complement the texture of the rock.

3. Select three thematically related items of different sizes for the mantel or hearth, and position the tallest item in the back and the other two in front. Framed pictures and candles work well with this technique.

4. Try using rustic antiques in your decorating motif. Items such as cast-iron Dutch ovens, wrought-iron candle holders or sculptures emphasize the shabby chic look often associated with rock fireplaces.

5. Use accessories from nature. Items such as dried flowers, grapevine garland and gourds arranged in a centerpiece look great on the mantel. Mini pumpkins, dried pomegranate or dried fruit add bursts of color without taking away from the beauty of the stone.

6. Reach back to your roots and create a bit of nostalgia by selecting black-and-white family photos to adorn your mantel. Weave in delicate sprigs of baby's breath or silk grape leaves for color.

7. Arrange rustic furniture around the fireplace. Chairs and baskets made from sturdy twigs, heavy pillows and a Quaker-style coffee table are all good choices.

8. Invite coziness and add to the decorative motif by tucking folded quilts in baskets on the hearth or into built-in shelves near the fireplace.

Tags: rock fireplace, family photos, Items such

Replace Or Update A Porch Column

Well-maintained columns bring beauty to any porch.

Porch columns are important, hardworking structural elements that not only shoulder most of the load of a porch's roof, but they also play a big role in defining the style of the porch. It's essential to replace a column that shows signs of rot or damage, but you may also want to replace your columns with more stylish versions just to bring a fresh new look to the exterior of your house. Either way, you'll be ensuring the long-term integrity of the porch as a whole. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Removal

1. Measure the length of the existing post and write this measurement down.

2. Position a telescoping jack as close as possible next to the column. Raise the jack, so that it elevates the beam 1/4 inch.

3. Cut through the middle of the post with a reciprocating saw to make two separate vertical cuts, one 8 inches above the other. Knock out the section between the cuts with a hammer.

4. Pry out and remove the top and bottom sections of the post with a crow bar.

Installation

5. Mark the center point of the porch column on the underside of the beam. Use an angle square to draw a centerline across the width of the beam.

6. Hang a plumb bob from the center point on the beam. Mark the center point on the porch deck under the plumb bob.

7. Draw a centerline through the center point on the deck, to match the centerline on the underside of the beam.

8. Cut the new column with a handsaw to match the length of the old column. If the column has a base and cap, you'll need to subtract their heights from the measurement before cutting. Attach the base and cap, if any, to the new column.

9. Mark the center points on the top and bottom of the new column. Draw centerlines through each center point and onto the side of the column. If you're using a base and cap, mark the centerline on the sides of each.

10. Position the column so that top and bottom centerline marks are aligned with the centerlines drawn on the deck and the beam. Check that the column is plumb with a 4-foot carpenter's level.

11. Lower the telescoping jack. Do this slowly to avoid knocking the column out of alignment. Check for plumb again, with the beam resting on the column.

12. Drill pilot holes for 3-inch stainless steel screws, and screw the column to the beam and deck on all four sides. If you've chosen a column with a cap and base, secure them to the beam and deck instead. Cover the screw holes with wood putty, sand flush when dry, and paint to match the column.

Tags: center point, Mark center, beam deck, center point porch, column that, column with

Custom Shelving Ideas

Installing custom shelving allows you to create storage spaces that fit the existing contours of rooms. Unlike prefabricated shelving, custom units allow the homeowner/designer to specify the precise lengths, widths and thicknesses of the shelves. While some homeowners hire professionals to build custom shelves, you can do the work yourself if you have the tools and some do-it-yourself experience under your belt. Does this Spark an idea?

For the Garage

While consumers often use prefabricated metal shelving units in the garage, basement or other indoor work space, metal shelves are prone to bending under heavy loads, such as large tools and jars of nails, bolts and screws. Custom wooden shelving is a stronger, sturdier solution for garage storage. The most utilitarian and inexpensive installation is a series of plywood shelves fastened to a garage wall using L-brackets. To avoid creating dead space between consecutive shelves, measure the heights of the tallest objects you will be placing on each shelf and then allow 1 1/2 inches of clearance between the next shelf.

For the Bathroom

In the bathroom, which typically has small dimensions, having storage that is compact as well as stylish is important to homeowners. One option that meets those criteria is building vertical shelving units on either side of a tall, above-sink mirror. The shelves rest on the countertop on either side of the sink and frame the mirror on two sides. You can stain them to match the under-sink cabinets. This type of custom shelving design can make bathrooms appear up to 30 percent larger, according to Ask the Builder.

For the Corner

Corner shelving is an option for small rooms where storage space is scarce. Purchase a 24-inch round piece of plywood -- available at most home supply stores -- and cut it into quarters, which will resemble pie pieces. Paint or stain the shelves, and use brackets to attach each shelf to the corner walls, allowing for as much clearance between the shelves as you desire. Use decorative wrought iron brackets to dress up the shelves.

Tags: clearance between, each shelf, either side, shelving units

Patio Landscaping Ideas For Colonial Houses

Colonial homes have a distinctive look.

Colonial homes are often identified by their central doorway with tall front porch columns and the symmetry of having an equal number of windows on each side of the front door. If there is something on the left side of a colonial home, then the same feature will appear on the left side. This symmetry, along with the reputation colonial homes have for well-kept landscaping, helps to create landscape design ideas for colonial patios. Does this Spark an idea?

Paths

Colonial homes are known for sprawling backyards with well-kept gardens. One of the design elements you can use to landscape around your patio is to run paths to your backyard gardens from your patio. Use cobblestone path stones to help make walkways that make the patio the central feature of the backyard. Remember to keep the paths symmetrical on both sides of the patio. Split your yard in half and run an equal number of paths on each side of the patio to gardens in your backyard.

Shrubs

The front yards of colonial homes are often accented with low-cut shrubs. The shrubs are densely packed together to create a natural fence. This landscape feature can be used to help create a natural border around your backyard patio. You can line the outside of your shrubs with small, colorful flowers to help accent the perimeter surrounding your patio.

Lamps

Landscaping around a colonial patio requires specific kinds of landscaping elements and design patterns. One design element that remains true to the colonial period is the backyard patio lamp. Use wrought iron lamp stands and colonial lamps on each corner of your patio to give your backyard light and add to the symmetrical look of your colonial home.

Colorful Flowers

Colonial landscaping used foliage for fencing around smaller areas, such as porches and patios. Do not make the mistake of putting up fencing around your patio as it will not be in line with the colonial theme, according to the "Old House Journal" website. If you are not inclined to put shrubs around the perimeter of your patio, then use colorful flowers. Marigolds or any colorful flower that is native to your area will help to accent your patio and enhance your colonial landscaping theme.

Tags: your patio, your backyard, around your, around your patio, backyard patio, colonial home

Iron Working Tools

Working with iron can be rewarding.

People that work with iron are called blacksmiths. This trade has been around since the beginning of the Iron Age. The 21st century blacksmith works with iron for artistic or commercial purposes. Commercially, decorative iron is used for fences, rails and gates. As an art medium, iron can be molded into almost any shape. A number of tools are essential for working with iron.

Anvil

One of the most important tools used to work with iron is an anvil. An anvil is like a workbench for the iron worker. It needs to be heavy, fire resistant and strong. Anvils come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The type of work to be created determines the type of anvil needed. Since anvils are solid metal, they tend to last a long time, making used anvils a wise purchase.

Forge

Forges supply the heat source needed to melt the iron and make it pliable. Forges can be gas or coal fueled. The choice between the two tends to be users preference. Forges can be bought completed, or for a cheaper option, iron workers can create their own forges. All forges need to have air intake to keep the fire hot and air exhaust to dispense of the smoke.

Hammer

Blacksmiths use hammers to form and contour the iron. Hammers come in many styles. Power hammers help ease the effort of all the pounding that needs to be done to manipulate iron. Like anvils, hammers come in a wide range of sizes and prices.

Tongs

Iron becomes extremely hot when placed in a forge. Tongs are used to handle the scorching metal. Tongs need to be strong and easy to hold. Tongs made specifically for blacksmiths must be used. Cooking tongs will not withstand the extreme heat.

Vise

A vise holds the iron object in place so the blacksmith can work on it with ease. A blacksmith vise must be strong enough to hold an object that is being repeatedly pounded. It also must be able to withstand very hot metal. Vise stands allow the blacksmith to work on the iron at a comfortable stance. Vises can be modified with accessories such as a punch holder, spacer or fork.

Detailing Tools

Beautiful designs can be made out of iron.

Different tools can be helpful for creating more intricate designs. Chisels are used for etching and cutting in the iron. Punches and cutters cut out holes and designs. Various texturing tools add artistic details such as leaves and grooves.

Tags: with iron, work with, blacksmith work, work with iron

Spider Yard Art

Put a spider in your garden.

Whether your objective is to scare, amuse or celebrate the beneficial garden spider, you can make your own spider yard art or buy it ready-made. Does this Spark an idea?

Sculpture

Spider sculptures made of wrought iron or sheet metal add a whimsical touch to your outdoor decor. If you like to decorate with recycled materials, look for spiders made of welded pieces of discarded metal, tools and other junkyard objects. Don't go too big, unless you want a scary sculpture.

Garden Spiders

Spiders have long been believed to be a sign of good luck. Place small spiders made of wire, plastic, metal and/or glass in your flower garden, hovering atop a stake or on the ground below the leaves.

Halloween Spiders

Spiders and spider webs are common Halloween decorations, usually hairy, over-sized black spiders hanging from trees, lining walkways and "crawling" up the side of the house. Since Halloween spider yard art is only displayed for a few weeks or less, it doesn't have to be as weatherproof as year-round art.

Tags: spider yard, spiders made, Spiders Spiders

Skateboard Parks In Chicago

Find a skate park in and around Chicagoland best suited for your skills.

There are many places for skateboard enthusiasts to practice in Chicago. Chicago-area skate parks are abound and many have become special hot spots due to their accessible locations, special skateboarding design schemes, impressive obstacle ramps and expansive concrete ground features. Most of the parks in Chicago are well-suited for novice to advanced skaters.

Wilson Skate Park

Wilson Skate Park is located in north Chicago and covers 21,647 sq. feet of concrete ground. There are no entrance fees. The park is well-lit and most ideal for skateboarders that like launching lines. The park also consists of wrought iron fences, seven bowls with islands and shallow ends. Complex terrains have been set up for advanced skaters.

Wilson Skate Park

700 W Wilson Ave.

Chicago, IL 60640

chicagoparkdistrict.com

Logan Square Skate Park

A Chicago Parks District skateboarding area is relatively new and was constructed underneath Chicago's Kennedy Expressway in Bucktown. According to Snakeboarder, the park features a long 4-foot quarter pipe, hip quarter/bank, spine, roll-over, driveway box with ledge, various grind boxes, picnic table and ground rails.

Logan Square Skate Park

2430 W Logan Blvd.

Chicago, IL 60647

West Lawn Skate Park

West Lawn Skatepark is located between 89th Street and Ridgeland Avenue in Oak Lawn. The park features various round and flat rails that are made adjustable to different heights. It has two 1/4 pipes which make a half pipe, and a huge 8- to 9-foot-tall quarter pipe with a 3 foot spine after it. The park also has a double funbox consisting of three banks and 1/4 pipes.

West Lawn Skate Park

4233 West 65th St.

Chicago, IL 60629

773-284-2803

chicagoparkdistrict.com

Tags: Skate Park, West Lawn, Wilson Skate, Wilson Skate Park, advanced skaters

What Is The Meaning Of The Iron Cross

The Iron Cross is a common symbol enriched by Prussian and German history, and has become a popular icon on everything from belt buckles to motorcycles. From its rich military heritage in the Prussian and German armies as the primary award for bravery to its common display on vehicles and as a fashion statement, the Iron Cross is both misunderstood and appreciated by many.

History

The Iron Cross was created by an architect named Karl Schinkel, and was awarded in 1813 for the first time. It has gone through many changes, with its arguably most notorious revival coming from Adolf Hitler, who reinstated the traditionally Prussian award with various additives (swastikas and eagles) to note various achievements. In 2009, the Iron Cross is a standard design on all German military vehicles and aircraft, with the now-illegal swastika obviously removed.

Significance

Awarded for bravery, the Iron Cross is akin to the American Army's Silver Star or Britain's Victoria Cross, both of which are awarded for acts of gallantry. Other variations of the Iron Cross included specialized ribbons (as in the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross), oak leaves, swords, and diamonds for exceptionally distinguished achievements.

Most Prestigious

The highest award of the Iron Cross was the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Golden Oakleaves, Swords and Diamonds. Initially, Hitler had designated that only twelve of these awards would be graced upon the top dozen warriors in the Third Reich. As Hitler's dream failed, an exception was made and one man received the award: Hans Ulrich Rudel, a Stuka bomber in the Luftwaffe. To earn his achievement, Rudel destroyed 518 tanks, 150 artillery positions, 700 vehicles, sank the Russian battleship Marat (as well as a cruiser and a destroyer), 70 Russian landing craft and "hundreds of other targets."

Use in Other Cultures

In the civilian world, perhaps the most notorious revival of the Iron Cross started in the 1960s, when members of counter-culture (like surfers and bikers) began using the Iron Cross as an "in your face" anti-authority tactic. Since then, the Iron Cross has seen popularity in the clothing and styles of bikers, punks and goths who may or may not understand the history behind it.

Misconceptions

Due to the relationship with Adolf Hitler, the Iron Cross may be offensive to some, as it is still used in the tattoos and emblems of White Supremacist groups. In Germany, it is illegal to wear or promote a swastika, but Neo-Nazi groups (in Germany and elsewhere) utilize the Iron Cross with a centralized swastika as an emblem. In the United States, the Iron Cross is widely used as a simple design, but its presence may be controversial depending on the context.

Tags: Iron Cross, Adolf Hitler, Cross both, Cross Iron, Cross Iron Cross

Clean And Polish Wrought Iron Patio Furniture

Wrought iron patio furniture withstands the elements.

Wrought iron is an ideal material for patio furniture. It is malleable enough to form beautiful, elegant designs, yet strong enough to withstand the harsh elements that patio furniture often has to endure throughout the year. Because of its weight, heavy winds don't affect wrought iron as much as they do lighter weight patio furniture. Wrought iron furniture doesn't need much maintenance, but dirt still needs to be washed off periodically to keep it looking its best. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove any chair cushions and tablecloths from the furniture. Place the furniture on a cement surface away from dirt and grass to avoid getting it dirty again.

2. Wet the furniture thoroughly with a hose. Add 1 tbsp. dish soap to a large bucket, and fill the bucket with water.

3. Dip a sponge into the soapy water, and use it to wipe down the furniture. Use circular motions to get rid of all the dirt and debris.

4. Rinse the soap off of the furniture with the hose, and allow it to air-dry.

5. Squeeze a quarter-sized amount of liquid car wax onto a soft cloth, and apply it to the furniture using circular motions. Keep adding the liquid wax to the cloth as you cover all your furniture. Buff it to a shine with a clean, soft cloth once the wax dries. Repeat this every six months for optimal results.

Tags: patio furniture, circular motions, soft cloth, with hose, Wrought iron

Remove Paint From Wrought Iron

Wrought Iron Umbrella Stand.

Because wrought iron contains less than one percent carbon, it resists corrosion better than other metals. To slow rust from forming, wrought iron is often painted. Over time, however, the paint can start to peel off and rust can form. Sometimes you can scrape the paint off by hand or use a dry wire brush, but neither of these methods is terribly effective. For better results, use a chemical paint stripper.

Instructions

1. Lay down a tarp to protect the work area.

2. Follow the application instructions given on the packaging of the paint stripper you choose. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands when handling the chemical. You may even want to cover your mouth and nose to avoid breathing in the fumes.

3. Brush the wrought iron with a wire brush after the stripper is applied and removed. This will help remove any chemical residue.

4. Wipe down the wrought iron with a rag dampened with mineral spirits.

5. Allow the wrought iron to dry before repainting.

Tags: iron with, paint stripper, wire brush, wrought iron, wrought iron, wrought iron with

Bend Wrought Iron Stair Railing

Wrought iron is strong, but it can still be bent into shape.

Wrought iron is an ancient material; the word "wrought" is the medieval past tense of "to work." Iron is heated in a fire or forge until it is malleable, and then hammered and drawn into shape before being left to cool. Unlike cast iron, wrought items can still be bent after they have cooled but considerable force may be required to bend a wrought iron stair rail. Applying heat to the railing makes it easier to bend. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Mark the center of the bend on the railing using a pen or pencil. Ensure that the point is clearly visible. Mark the ends of the section to bend if required. For example, if a particular section of railing is to be bent and the rest left straight, mark the middle and end points of the section to be bent.

2. Grip both ends of the railing, just outside the area to be bent, with wolf-jaw tongs. Align them so that they can be held comfortably when bending the railing.

3. Don goggles and thick, leather gloves. Apply heat to the center of the area to be bent, slowly expanding the heated section until the entire bend area is glowing a yellow-orange color.

4. Turn off the heat source and start to bend the railing. For a freehand bend, simply apply force to the tongs and twist the metal into the desired shape. To obtain a specific curve, drape the hot iron over a former, such as a metal block or anvil, and either pull it or hammer it into shape.

5. Apply more heat whenever the iron begins to resist and then continue with the shaping.

6. Allow the iron to cool slowly before handling it.

Tags: into shape, area bent, bend railing, still bent

What Kind Of Paint To Use For A Wrought Iron Fence

Using the right paint on wrought iron fencing saves time and money.

Give new life to old wrought iron fences with a new paint job. Almost any type of paint can be used on wrought iron. However, some paints will withstand time and the elements better. With a little knowledge about primers and paints, a homeowner can save time and money. Does this Spark an idea?

Primer

To prime an unpainted wrought iron, use a metal-etching acid-based primer to the fence. Use latex and acrylic primers on wrought iron fences when repainting a fence.

Acrylic Latex

Acrylic latex coats and bonds well to wrought iron. Acrylic latex paint is also able to expand and contract with temperature variances, making it a good choice for outdoor painting

Acrylic Enamel

The best choice for paint when painting a wrought iron fence is an acrylic enamel. Acrylic enamel paints have the highest endurance of any of the listed paints and are perfectly suited for painting outdoors.

Alkyd Enamels

Alkyd enamels, or oil-based paints will adhere to wrought iron fences. This type of paint is the least desirable for painting wrought iron as it does not last as long as the acrylic style paints

Tags: wrought iron, iron fences, wrought iron fences, Acrylic latex, painting wrought, painting wrought iron, paints will

Christmas Welding Projects

Almost every Christmas, people look for a gift to give to that person who has everything. They search and search to no avail. Homemade welding gifts are different than anything you can find in the store. You can also use the welding projects as Christmas decorations for your own home. Start with one or two, and you might have people asking you to make one for them.

Horseshoe Wreaths

Collect or buy small horseshoes. Buy the ones for ponies and they will work great. Do not use the larger horseshoes, as the wreath gets very heavy. Paint the horseshoes with a black satin spray paint, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies and paint both sides. Lay the horseshoes out in a circle, layering the edge of one on top of the previous one until you get the size you want. Weld the horseshoes together. Give the wreath another coat of the spray paint if necessary. Add a Christmas fabric or raffia bow to complete the wreath.

Take any leftover horseshoes and weld two of them together perpendicularly. Make two sets of these to use as bookends to give away as Christmas gifts.

Ornaments

Get some sheet metal and make some Christmas ornaments. Trace out a design on the sheet metal and cut them out. Make 3-dimensional ornaments by cutting out the three shapes and welding the sides of the ornaments together. This works especially well with Christmas tree ornaments. Cut a hole in the top of the ornament where you can loop a string through for hanging. Lightly sand the ornaments and paint them using paint especially for metals.

Yard Decorations

Design a stable, church, stocking, snowman or any other yard decoration you want. Use ¼-inch rolled steel to heat, bend and weld the shape together. Weld a couple of 14-inch lengths of the metal to the bottom of each design to put in the ground and hold the design upright when on display. Prime and paint each design. Wrap outside lights around the welded metal frames and put them in your yard to share with everyone who drives by.

To add multiple parts to your design, such as smoke coming out of a chimney, make separate pieces and attach them by welding with another length of the rolled steel. Then only wrap the lights around the portions of the design you want to light up.

Tags: each design, lights around, rolled steel, sheet metal, spray paint

Remove Rust On Iron Furniture

Maintain the appearance of your iron furniture by removing rust deposits.

Iron furniture has an Old World charm combined with strength that lasts for years, as long as you take care of the furniture properly. Allowed to sit in moist conditions, however, the pieces can start rusting. Rust will damage your furniture, dulling the details, and eating through the metal, with pitting occurring throughout. This damage destroys the beauty and the structural integrity of the piece. Removing rust as soon as it appears is essential to saving the furniture from that damage. The best method is to scrub the rust away before it etches too deeply into the surface. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Wash the metal with a mixture of detergent and water, using a scrub brush to remove any dirt or debris. Use a towel to remove as much moisture as possible, and then wait overnight for the furniture to dry completely.

2. Remove light deposits of surface rust with a rag soaked in mineral oil. Scrub at the rust deposits with a rag, using vigorous back-and-forth motions to remove the layer of rust. Wipe the surface clean with a dry rag.

3. Attach a rotary brush to an electric drill. Use the brush to scrub the rust from the surface of the metal. Place the brush lightly onto the rusted area and turn on the drill. Run the brush back and forth over the rust, grinding it away until you can see the non-rusted metal beneath. After reaching the clear metal, turn off the drill to avoid removing non-rusted iron. Wipe the metal surface with a clean cloth to remove any residue.

4. Burnish the piece of iron furniture with steel wool to remove any lingering traces of metal. Wipe the metal using small circles, constantly moving the wool to avoid leaving marks from the burnishing process. Wipe with a clean cloth again to remove rust particles.

5. Dip a cloth in lubricating oil, and spread a light layer of oil over the furniture to protect against future rusting. The oil will fill the pores of the metal, reducing rusting caused by moisture. Rub the oil into the metal, wipe away any excess with a clean cloth, and then wait overnight for the oil to dry before using the furniture.

Tags: clean cloth, with clean, with clean cloth, drill brush, iron furniture

Make A Metal Corn Crib Into A Gazebo

A metal corn crib is a round, wire structure used to hold ears of feed corn. Unlike a silo, which has solid sides, the corn crib is made of woven metal mesh to allow air to flow through the cobs. Old metal corn cribs make beautiful gazebos with a little effort and some ornamental vines. You may have to move the corn crib before you can use it, and will probably need to adjust its height.

If you do not know use basic hand tools--such as a screwdriver, wire cutters, socket wrenches, hammer and vise grips--do not attempt this project. If you do not already know weld, hire someone with extensive enough welding experience to be able to assess your structure and decide the correct method and materials to use. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Number all roof parts so that they can be reassembled in the correct order later.

2. Use screwdrivers, socket wrenches, vise grips, a hammer and wire cutters to disassemble your corn crib. Corn crib construction varies from prefabricated versions purchased from feed stores to homemade, slap-dash-assembly, so it is impossible to detail what you may encounter as you take your particular corn crib apart.

3. Use a digital camera to take photos of your corn crib before you begin, from every possible angle. Take additional photos after each item you remove. This will aid you in reassembly.

4. Choose the correct screw or nut-driver head before you begin. Refer to the Screw Profile Chart in the References section of this article for explanations of each screw profile.

5. Unscrew and unbolt all the pieces one at a time to disassemble and remove the roof. Work from the highest point on the roof to the lowest. Turn screws and bolts counterclockwise to remove them. If any screws or bolts are too rusty or do not turn, spray with penetrating oil and wait 10 to 20 minutes for the corrosion to loosen. Repeat until fasteners will loosen or they break.

6. Use a power drill to clear any fasteners that break in their holes. Choose a drill bit as close to the same diameter as the fastener as possible, and drill only as deep as the length of the fastener. Keep all screws, nuts and bolts in containers, as you will need them to reassemble your corn crib. Purchase additional fasteners to replace those you had to destroy while removing them.

7. Remove wire mesh from the inside of the corn crib using wire cutters. Store it to use later, as livestock fencing, to prevent animals digging in your garden or to create armatures for garden sculptures.

8. Use a cutting wheel on a four-inch or larger right angle grinder to cut the structure down to 10 to 12 feet tall, depending on the location of the horizontal bars that supported the wire mesh.

9. Cut all roof pieces into manageable sections that can be handled safely on a ladder.

10. Reassemble roof on top of the metal structure, just as it was when you took it apart. Work from the lowest point of the structure to the highest point of the roof, securing and triple-inspecting the placement and attachment of every piece as you go.

Reassembly methods will depend on how your particular corn crib was made. If the roof was nailed, screwed or bolted into place before, nail, screw or bolt it again, to the same type, strength, size, number and location of roof supports as before. Turn screws and bolts clockwise to tighten during reassembly.

If your roof was welded, use a 110-volt gasless MIG to weld it again. Have a helper hold each piece in place while you nail, screw or weld the pieces back together. Use wire cutters to make a doorway in the structure if it does not already have one.

11. Use scrap metal, prefabricated wrought iron parts, repurposed farm implements and other found objects to embellish your gazebo. Michele Beschen of B-organic showcases Sheila O'Reilly's corn crib gazebo, which incorporates a mailbox repurposed into a flower box, as well as many other decorative accent pieces.

Heat items with a propane torch to reshape them as desired. Don a welding helmet and full leathers. Use a 110-volt gasless MIG to weld embellishments into place after cleaning, grinding, and polishing everything.

12. After all metalwork is complete, wire wheel any bare structural steel. Wash entire structure with a solution of trisodium phosphate and rinse clean with water. Paint structure in your choice of rust-inhibitive enamel colors.

Tags: corn crib, wire cutters, corn crib, screws bolts, your corn

Make A Wrought Iron Candle Holder

Wrought iron designs can be complex with twists and turns.

Wrought iron pieces are versatile in interior design, adding either classic elegance or a rustic feel to a home's decor. Usually finished in black, wrought iron can serve as shelf brackets, door handles, or stands for lights and candles. Even an inexperienced metalworker can put together an utilitarian candle holder, though some assistance may be needed when it comes to welding the iron pieces.

Instructions

1. Diagram your wrought-iron candle holder. Design the object with at least three legs for stability. For example, start with a simple holder - a sheet metal plate sitting on top of three legs that curve, meet at the midpoint of the candle holder's height, and curve again to rest on the display surface.

2. Cut at least three pieces of 1/2-inch square iron pipe to equal lengths, to serve as the legs. The pieces should be slightly longer than what you expect the finished height to be, taking into account the curve you will put in the iron.

3. Bend each piece of pipe, by hitting it in the middle with a hammer. Hold one end of the pipe in your hand, about 4 inches above the work surface. Strike the pipe repeatedly in the center area, until you have the desired shape. Each piece should have roughly the same curve.

4. Strike each piece of pipe all over with the hammer, to complete the distressed look.

5. Stand the pieces on end, and weld the midpoints together to form one piece. Ensure each piece sits firmly on the work surface, so the candle holder will have stability.

6. Place a piece of flat metal on top of the joined legs. Spot weld where each of the legs touches the plate.

7. Apply a coat of black paint on the metalwork, to finish your wrought iron candle holder.

Tags: candle holder, candle holder, each piece, each piece pipe, iron pieces, least three

Replace Wood On Cast Iron Bench

Stylish cast iron bench slats have wooden slats seats.

Stylish and sturdy, cast iron benches with wooden slats are long lasting components in the backyard garden or patio. These benches are available for purchase through city auctions because of city renovations or at lawn and garden stores. The type of bench bought second-hand may need repairs to the wooden slats because of chipping, splitting or splintering of the wood. Removal of the cast iron bolts is often complicated if the nuts have rusted, but it is not impossible with some effort. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the bolts on the bench slats with a socket wrench. Hold the bottom of the bolt still with pliers to keep the bolt from turning with the wrench. If the bolts will not come undone because of rust or the bolt is stripped, use an angle grinder to cut the bolts off just under the head.

2. Remove the wooden slats and bolts from the cast iron bench frame. Keep one slat from the seat and one slat from the back for measuring. The seat slats may be slightly thicker or wider than the back slats. Check the thickness of the slats carefully for consistency and safety.

3. Cut the new wooden slats to the correct length with a table saw using the measurements of the original slats.

4. Drill 1/2-inch holes into the ends of the wooden slats 1-inch from the end.

5. Set the new slats on the bench, lining up the holes on the ends with the holes in the cast iron frame.

6. Attach the slats to the frame with new 1/2-inch bolts and nuts using the socket wrench. Attach one slat at a time.

Tags: wooden slats, cast iron, bench slats, cast iron bench, iron bench, slat from

Clean Black From Stove Pots & Pans

If you spend any amount of time cooking on a hot stove, then you're likely familiar with the appearance of thick, black burn marks that can present themselves on your stovetop and cookware. While these stubborn stains may look impossible to remove, you can defeat them with the right solutions. Just remember to let the metal cool down before you begin tackling the burn marks, to prevent injury. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Cleaning Pots and Pans

1. Cover the bottom of your pot or pan with vinegar and then add an equal amount of water.

2. Mix approximately 1 tbsp. of baking soda into the water and vinegar mixture. The combination of vinegar and baking soda will loosen the charred particles when heated, according to The Kitchn website.

3. Bring the water to a boil. Place the pot or pan on your stove and set the heat to medium or high.

4. Allow the water to continue boiling for approximately 20 minutes.

5. Turn off the heat and drain the water.

6. Sprinkle additional baking soda along the bottom of your pot or pan and scrub vigorously with a scouring pad until the charred particles release fully from the surface.

7. Rinse and dry your cookware.

Cleaning a Stovetop

8. Add dish soap to hot water. Dampen a cloth with the soapy water.

9. Scrub the affected area with the hot, soapy cloth. Promptly rinse and dry the area with a dish towel.

10. Place paper towels over the area that you just finished scrubbing.

11. Pour ammonia over your paper towels and cover the area with plastic wrap to lock the ammonia inside.

12. Let the ammonia soak over the stains for six to seven hours. This will loosen the stubborn crust, according to the Tipnut website.

13. Remove the plastic wrap and paper towels. Scrub the stove a second time with hot, soapy water until the surface shines like new.

Tags: area with, baking soda, paper towels, with soapy, bottom your

Plants For An Arched Gateway

Roses are a classic choice for arching over a garden gate.

An arched gateway gives the first hint of what lies beyond it. The gateway may be a transition from the outside world to the sanctuary of the garden or a feature within the garden, leading from one outdoor room to the next. Colorful, fragrant flowers or soothing foliage may introduce the particular garden mood that the designer has chosen. Choose plants that complement your theme and will thrive in your locale. Does this Spark an idea?

Roses

"Bantry Bay" is a vigorous floribunda climber.

Roses are often planted so that they use a gateway as their support system. Train the main rose canes horizontally, as flowers form on side shoots. Choose a vigorous rose bush and zigzag the canes up the side supports. A smaller or miniature climber planted at the base of the arch will cover the sides of the support with flowers.

There are many options for roses on an arched gateway. Large-flowered "Eden Rose" blooms in creamy pink. "Zepherine Drouhin" flowers with bright rose-pink, fragrant blossoms on nearly thornless canes. "Jeanne la Joie" is a miniature pink climber. Fragrant, red "Don Juan" or "Blaze" are vigorous red choices; "Graham Thomas" and "Golden Celebration" are golden yellow. Climbing "Rainbows End," a miniature rose with yellow blossoms edged in scarlet, creates a dramatic display when combined with red or yellow climbers.

Clematis

Showy clematis are spectacular in full bloom.

Clematis vines in full bloom display dozens of flowers, some as large as 10 inches across. Late-flowering clematis bloom on the current season's growth and are the easiest to maintain. Prune these vines in late winter or early spring by cutting the entire plant back to 12 to 18 inches.

You can choose clematis to grow through the roses on your archway in complementary or harmonious colors. "Mrs. Cholmondeley" grows to 20 feet high, blooming May through October with large, lavender-blue flowers. "Comtesse de Bouchard," at 8 feet high, flowers July through August with pink, 4- to 6-inch flowers. "Madam Julia Correvon" grows to 12 feet long, sporting wine-red flowers July through September.

Flowering Vines

Fragrant jasmine can cover an arched gateway in low-frost regions.

Fragrant vines create an enticing invitation to enter the gateway and attract bees. Lonicera periclymenum, or woodbine, is a well-behaved, fragrant vine, blooming summer through fall. "Serotina" has purple and yellow flowers. "Scentsation" has pale, lemon custard-colored flowers fading to cream. L. x heckrottii "Pink Lemonade" has two-toned pink flowers with a sweet fragrance spring through frost. "Goldflame" has fragrant, bright coral-pink and yellow flowers. For warmer climates, Jasminum officinale blooms throughout the season with fragrant, pure white flowers. "Aureum" has bright, golden yellow foliage.

Foliage Plants

A foliage-covered archway suggests cool serenity.

For a soothing transition, greenery suggests a sense of serenity. Parthenocissus quinquefolia, or Virginia creeper, is a rampant native plant that the nursery trade has tamed by developing new cultivars. "Star Showers" and "Variegata" have pretty green-and-white variegated foliage. "Englelmanii" has smaller leaves and a more tenacious clinging habit. Virginia creeper has brilliant fall foliage, as well as decorative berries that are poisonous to humans though delightful to birds.

English ivy is suitable in areas where its rampant growth will not invade flower beds. Take care with archways attached to or near your house, because clinging vines may damage wooden siding and eaves on homes. Locate such vines away from ornamental trees as well.

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Build A House Using A Shoebox

In this age of immediate consumption, it seems like far too much is purchased only to be thrown away. Why not turn trash into a treasure? Build a house using a shoebox and create a thing of beauty. As the immortal Keats once wrote, "A thing of beauty is a joy for ever."

Instructions

1. Remove the lid from the shoe box. Lay the shoebox on the table so that the opening is down and one of the short ends is facing you. The short end closest to you is going to be the bottom of your shoebox house. These instructions are for creating a three-story house.

2. Standing the box on end, measure down 5 inches from the top of the box and draw a line across the box at this point all around the box. Use a pencil and press lightly so you can erase it easily.

3. Plot the placement of the three windows on the upper story of your shoebox house. Each window should be 2 inches high and 1 inch wide. The top of each of the windows will be the line you drew in Step 2.

4. Measure down 2 inches from the bottom of the windows and draw three more windows that are 2 inches tall and 1 inch wide.

5. Mark the position of the entry door and first floor window. The placement of these is up to you. You can have the door offset to one side with one window beside it, a door in the middle with two windows flanking it, or any placement you choose. Consider whether you wish to place the door a short distance higher than the bottom of the box so you can create a stoop for your shoebox house. Whatever you decide, make sure you draw the door so that it's just a little taller than the height of the first floor window or windows.

6. Add details using markers or paint. Since the house you are building is like the row houses of London, Boston and other cities, you can draw bricks on the front of your shoebox house, add trim and mullions to the windows, decorative wrought iron, or whatever other details you choose. .

7. Measure the depth of the shoebox and cut the lid with scissors so that the lip of the lid fits over the end of the shoebox. It will resemble the characteristic flat roof of row houses. Paint the roof as desired.

8. Turn the shoebox over so that the opening is facing up. Cut the remnants of the box lids into "floors" and glue them in place inside the shoebox house. Decorate your house.

9. Create a stoop and a small roof for the front of the shoebox house from the small box. Remove the lid of the small box and cut an inch-long section from it, just as you cut the lid of the big box to create the roof (see Step 7). This small section will be a small roof set over the shoebox house's front door. Color it as desired and glue it over the front door..

10. The remainder of the small box lid will be the front stoop. Paint or color the stoop to resemble concrete, stone or wood. Place it, opening side down, in front of the door and glue in place.

Tags: shoebox house, your shoebox house, your shoebox, front door, down inches, down inches from

Hang Wrought Iron Wall Mirrors

Hanging Wrought-Iron Wall Mirrors

Mirrors tend to make the rooms they hang in look bigger. They are a timeless way to spruce up any room, and they come framed in many materials using numerous styles. Hanging a wrought-iron wall mirror will most likely require a heavy picture hanger, which is available at most hardware stores and will support a frame weighing up to 100 pounds. It is important to use appropriate hanging hardware to minimize the possibility of property damage and/or injury. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Hang Wrought-Iron Wall Mirrors

1. Determine where you would like to hang the wrought-iron wall mirror. Then measure how far apart the hangers on the mirror are.

2. Transfer this measurement to the wall with a pencil. Read the installation directions that come with the heavy picture hanger you purchased (many styles are available) and install the hanger in the marked areas according to the instructions.

3. Once the hangers are installed, pull on them slightly to test their integrity. Also, use a level to be sure the hangers are level.

4. Hang the mirror on the hangers.

5. Spray glass cleaner on the mirror and wipe the mirror clean with a rag.

Tags: Wall Mirrors, Wrought-Iron Wall Mirrors, heavy picture, heavy picture hanger, picture hanger, wall mirror, Wrought-Iron Wall

Remove Topical Concrete Sealer

Use chemical strippers to remove old sealant.

Topical sealants protect the millions of pores in the surface of your concrete from moisture penetration. Topical sealants may erode over time and, if necessary, you can coat them with subsequent layers without having to remove the original coat. Before you apply paint, epoxy or anything other than another coat of topical sealant, however, you must first remove the existing sealant. You can complete the process with chemical strippers, but the job requires a lot of time and effort. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Shake the stripper's container vigorously to mix the contents.

2. Pour a quart or so of stripper into a paint tray.

3. Spread and scrub the solvent into the concrete with a solvent-resistant brush. Use a long-handle brush for concrete floors.

4. Cover the treated area with a damp cotton sheet to keep it moist while it works. If the area is exposed to bright sunlight or drying wind, cover the sheet with plastic sheeting. Dry stripper is inactive stripper. Do not let the plastic sheeting touch the stripper itself. The stripper will eat away at the plastic.

5. Check on the stripper after the manufacturer-recommended set time has elapsed. The set time varies widely depending on the type of stripper. Caustic strippers may begin to dissolve sealants in a matter of minutes. Environmentally friendly biochemical strippers may take as long as 24 hours to act. Apply more stripper to drying areas. Watch for bubbling, a sign that the stripper is removing the old sealant. Once the bubbling has peaked, the stripper is ready to come off.

6. Remove the cover and clean up the stripper. Scoop up the bulk of the mess with a squeegee and a metal dust pan. Clean up the residue with a clean scrub brush and a bucket of clean water. Be sure to clean thoroughly to clean up all of the residue. Focus on cleaning depressions or holes in the surface of the concrete.

7. Scrub the area clean with a clean scrub brush and hot soapy water. Rinse with clean water -- via a pressure washer if available and feasible -- to remove any soap residue and allow the area to air dry.

8. Repeat steps one through seven on the other sections of the concrete until all of the sealant is removed. Depending on the size of the project, you may want to break up removal into several days.

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Decorate An Outdoor Sunporch

Blend the outside porch to the enviroment for an inviting look.

An outside sunporch is a nice addition to a home. Not only does it allow you to sit outside protected from the elements, it also allows more space to entertain and a designated space for cigarette or cigar smoke. When you begin to decorate your outdoor space, two key concepts to consider are function and aesthetics. Although you may want to choose a color theme complementary to your inside decor, consider one that enhances the view and harmonizes with nature. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clear the room of all furniture, plants and wall items. Wash down the walls and floors for a clean room. Measure the dimensions of the room. Plan the furniture placement.

2. Pick flooring that requires minimal care. Select tiles, concrete, slate or weather-proofed wood for your floors. Add an all-weather carpet or a natural fabric carpet, like sisal or jute. Buy a small rug you can bring in during inclement weather.

3. Review your furniture. Examine it for cracks, torn cushions and scuffs. Replace pieces with outdoor furniture made from bamboo, rattan, wicker or metal. Purchase fabrics rugged enough to stand up to constant sunlight, moisture, wind and rain. Purchase fabrics that resist mold, mildew and UV rays.

4. Decorate with plants, tables and benches. Place wrought-iron tables next to seating to hold drinks, a book or your computer. Add plants to flower boxes on the wall or a large fern or ficus in the corner of the porch for shade. Run a bench along the wall for extra seating for friends and guests.

5. Incorporate curtains. Screw hooks into the ceiling and hang rattan or shower curtains to protect you from the rain. Install a curtain rod if you prefer soft, billowy, gauze curtains to soften the look and protect you from the sun.

6. Add lighting and heat. You might use twinkle lights or votive candles for an ambient glow. Add a couple of lanterns for a stronger light source, or an overhead porch light. Use small butane heaters for your porch or include a soft blanket for the evening chill.

Tags: protect from, Purchase fabrics

Creative Ways To Divide A Room

Potted trees and plants can be used to separate areas of a room.

In a smaller home, a room may be used to serve dual purposes. A living room and dining room combination is one of the most common examples of shared spaces. If you have a setup like this in your home, you may wish to formally divide the room to create distinct areas for each purpose. Traditionally, room dividers or screens are placed between the two spaces to separate them. However, if you prefer a more individualized design, there are several creative ways to divide a room that you may want to consider. Does this Spark an idea?

Curtains

For an adjustable room divider, curtains or drapes are an ideal option. You can purchase curtains that are specifically designed to be used to divide a room, or repurpose curtains that you already have at home. Because they are available in such a wide array of colors and patterns, you should find a style that matches the rest of the d cor in your room. To hang the curtains, a ceiling track is usually required in the spot where you want to divide the space. The curtains slide along the track so you can open and close them when you want to use the full room and when you prefer divided space.

Shutters

If you like recycling projects, use the old shutters that you have lying around your garage to create an attractive room divider. Paint your tall exterior or interior shutters in a color that matches your room, and connect them with hinges so the partition can easily fold in sections. An average size divider typically calls for four shutters, but you can alter the number to create a larger or smaller divider depending on your needs. Once the shutters are hinged together, you can place it in the spot where you wish to divide the room. If you need to open up the space again, simply fold the divider and place it in a corner.

Plants

Using plants to divide a room can give the space an inviting, natural look. Large potted plants, such as coffee plants or crotons, can be grouped together at the spot where you want to divide your room. Potted trees like palms or weeping figs are also attractive options. For a more open look that still creates distinct areas in a room, hang plants from ceiling hooks so they partially block the view between the two areas.

Stained Glass Panels

For a truly elegant room divider, stained glass panels may be the best choice. You can opt for a divider composed of anywhere from one to four panels that are contained in a wooden or wrought iron frame. The panels may contain a variety of colors of glass fitted together in a range of patterns and designs. If you want privacy with the divider, substitute frosted glass for a more opaque look. Unlike other types of dividers, stained glass panels are usually permanently anchored in place, so they are best used in a room where you do not plan to ever use the entire space as a whole.

Tags: divide room, room divider, spot where, your room, areas room