Types Of Colonial Garden Fence Designs

Early fences were used for protection and as property boundaries.

From the time the first settlers landed in New England and Virginia, they used fences for protection, to establish land boundaries and to keep cattle and other wildlife out of crops and food gardens. Designs varied widely according to the resources available in each colony. Does this Spark an idea?

Wattle Fences

The first settlers could not furnish the necessary manpower to build fences made from timber. "More rustic wattle fences were made of twigs, branches or grapevines woven together in the springtime when the material was still pliable," according to Gwen Bruno, on gardenguides.com.

Worm Fences

Worm fences were also known as Virginia rail or crooked rail fences.

This fence type was favored in the Mid-Atlantic states. The fence was constructed by stacking intersecting planks at 120-degree angles to each other. The corners were locked together by crossed diagonal stakes secured by heavy rails, called riders.

Rail Fences

In New England, the rail fence was favored over the worm fence.

The planks used in rail fences were tapered and held together by vertical posts. Rail fences required less timber and took up less space than worm fences.

Board Fences

The board fence was the precursor to the picket fence

A precursor to the picket fence, the board fence used milled wood and nails. The posts were sunk into the ground and all of the boards were flat, giving a neater appearance than the rail fence. These fences became more decorative towards the end of the 18th century.

Stone Fences

Stone fences were most popular in New England.

Stone fence did not become widely used until about the American Revolution when timber became scare but stones were plentiful. Occasionally wooden posts were used to supplement the height of a stone fence. These were called crotch-and-stone fences.

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Restore Rusty Wrought Iron

Restore Rusty Wrought Iron

Wrought iron that is left outdoors is susceptible to rusting. When moisture comes into contact with the iron, rust forms. Whether the rust is on iron railings, furniture or decorative ornaments, removing the rust and restoring wrought iron is important in preserving the beauty and structural reliability of the iron. When rust forms on wrought iron, it slowly eats away at the material, leaving it unstable and weak. Removing rust from wrought iron will not only restore the appearance of the iron, but also increase its life span. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Scrub the wrought iron with a dry wire brush. This will remove any loose or flaking rust. Go over the wrought iron with a dry paintbrush to remove any tiny rust flakes or dirt.

2. Sand the wrought iron with sandpaper to further remove rust. Use the sandpaper to also remove any flaking or loose paint. Begin by using a coarse sandpaper to remove deeper rust. Go over the wrought iron with a medium-grit sandpaper.

3. Mix a solution of water and commercial rust remover in a bucket. Refer to the label on the rust remover for specific mixing instructions.

4. Dip a wire brush into the solution. Scrub the remaining rust spots on the wrought iron with the solution, scrubbing in a circular motion. Be sure to remove all of the rust; even a tiny spot left on the wrought iron will spread in the future.

5. Brush of the rust residue with the paintbrush. Go over the wrought iron with a fine steel wool pad, again working in circular motions, to restore the iron's appearance.

6. Dampen a sponge with plain water. Wipe down the wrought iron to remove any further residue.

7. Allow the surface to dry. Apply a coat of rust-resistant primer to the wrought iron. Allow the primer to dry completely

8. Apply two coats of rust resistant paint. Use a medium-bristled paint brush to apply the paint in smooth, even strokes. Let the paint fully dry in between coats. If you do not want to repaint the entire wrought iron structure, just touch it up with matching paint.

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Identify Wagner Ware

Certain types of cast iron cookery is worth quite a bit on the secondary and collector's markets, Wagner being one of them. Wagner Ware, which has a similar name, isn't connected to this company in any way and still manufacturers cast iron pots and pans today. Pieces from this company are worth less, but still work well for everyday cooking. When you spot a piece of cast iron cookery and you want quality, check the bottom for any signs that Wagner Ware manufactured the piece.

Instructions

1. Turn the pan over and look at the bottom. Look for writing on the bottom of the piece, indicating that it was made in Sidney, Ohio. It may have "Sidney, Ohio" on the bottom or just "Sidney O." This indicates that the piece was made by Wagner Ware before 1922.

2. Look for any sign of the Wagner name, typically labeled as "Wagner" with the name in quotation marks. The company used this early marking prior to 1922, sometimes in combination with the Sidney name. This indicates that the piece is an authentic Wagner.

3. Check for a Wagner Ware name, along with a Griswold name or a cross inside a circle. The Griswold company sold to Wagner in the 1950s and all the production of those pieces moved to the Sidney location. Pieces from the Griswold molds made after this time period have both names on the bottom.

4. Compare the type of cast iron piece against known pieces made by the company. Some companies made reproduction pieces, with the Wagner name on the bottom, even though the company never made that particular piece. For example, some companies made a toy size tea pot with the Wagner logo, but the company never made a toy tea pot.

5. Measure the size of the piece against the dimensions of a real cast iron piece made by Wagner Ware. Often times reproductions are made using the old molds and filling it with foam or another material to create a new one or creating a mold from a specific piece. This causes the reproduction piece to be slightly smaller and thinner than the original.

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The Best Plants For A French Window Box

Flowers, cascading from a window box, add beauty to a home.

A French window box is a wrought iron design used to display flowers on windowsills, porch railings or fences. Although the window box was created originally out of necessity due to space considerations, it has evolved into a feature used to display flowers and plants, creating interest to the outside of homes and adding to the beauty of the landscape. Does this Spark an idea?

History

Window boxes were used as far back as 1 B.C. in Rome. The Romans planted gardens for growing food and herbs for medicinal purposes and cooking. Flowers, including lilies, violets, pansies and roses, were grown for rituals and decorating. Among the lower classes, window boxes were utilized due to their lack of space. Through the years, window boxes spread to Europe, including Germany, England, Ireland and France. Although the Romans used terra cotta planters, in England villagers utilized wire hay baskets, and the French created ornate wrought iron window boxes. Similar window boxes are still used today to add to the exterior beauty of homes, as well as for practical purposes.

French Window Boxes

Today's French window boxes are fashioned after the wrought iron versions inspired by the ironwork of Provence. The modern versions are formed from metal, in openwork designs and powder-coated for durability. The coating is typically flat black but may also be a textured black surface. Since French window boxes are made in an openwork design, metal or PVC liners are available to hold the soil. Molded moss or coconut coir liners are other options used to line window boxes. You can also place terra cotta pots of flowers directly into the planters, eliminating the need for a liner.

Flowers and Plants

For a window box, the plants chosen will depend on the amount of sun and rain that the window box receives each day. Once those considerations are out of the way, you're only limited by the colors and varieties that appeal to you. If you want a more traditional look, pots of bright red geraniums (Pelargonium hortorum) placed in the window box are a good choice. To add more interest and depth, consider planting a variety of flowers and plants. Bright colors, such as red, yellow, orange or bright pink, show up well from a distance while blues, purples and dark green are better when viewed close up. Combine an assortment of plants, such as geraniums, French marigolds (Tagetes patula), petunias (Petunia hybrida) or varieties of miniature bulbs. Add trailing plants, such as lobelia (Lobelia erinus) or sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima). Compact plants, such as pansies (Viola wittrockiana) or impatiens (Impatiens wallerana), are also appropriate in a French window box. Most of these flowers come in a variety of color choices to accent your home and landscape. You can use your French window box for planting herbs, keeping them convenient to your kitchen. Choose miniature or dwarf varieties since you have limited space in the planter. Add edible flowers, such as nasturtiums (Tropaeolum minor), violas (Viola odorata) and pansies to provide color.

Planting

Unless you are simply placing pots of flowers in your window box, you need to fill the liner with potting soil. Plant taller plants in the back of the planter. Set trailing plants to the front and sides so that they can cascade over the planter. Fill in spaces with plants that are more compact and low-growing. Plants should be spaced about 5 inches apart in a zigzag pattern for a more interesting presentation. If your planter is under a wide eave or overhang where it will not benefit from rainfall, be sure that you can easily reach it for watering. Trim and deadhead your flowers, as needed, to keep your window box looking its best.

Tags: window boxes, French window, plants such, wrought iron, boxes were, display flowers

Repaint Your Table Top

Give a face lift to a worn dining room table with a fresh coat of paint.

Table tops, especially dining room tables, take quite the beating throughout their years. From scratches of plates to children banging their toys on the table's surface, a table's top can become worn, scratched or even dented. Rather than replacing the table itself, refinishing is a cost-effective alternative. You can enjoy the same table with the same color, or change the look of the table with a different color altogether. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Move the table to a well-ventilated area, such as a driveway or outdoor patio. Place the table on top of a drop cloth to protect the surface from spills.

2. Wash the table top with a solution of warm water and TSP. Mix the TSP according to the manufacturer's instructions for painted surfaces. Do not oversaturate the wood, but make sure that fingerprints, grime and buildup are removed. Allow the table to air dry.

3. Sand the surface of the table with 100-grit sandpaper until smooth and even. Pay particular attention to edges and corners.

4. Locate any dings, scratches or dents on the table top's surface. Use a small amount of wood filler on a putty knife and smooth the filler over the cracks and dents. Scrape away any excess wood filler and allow it to dry for at least four hours. Sand the area until it is even with the rest of the table top.

5. Clean off the table top with a tack cloth to remove any sawdust or dirt.

6. Apply a thin coat of an oil-based primer to the surface of the table top using a paint roller. Apply the primer to edges and corners using a nylon paint brush. Allow the primer to dry overnight.

7. Purchase a latex-based semi-gloss in the same color as the original table or in a different color. Use a semi-gloss paint due to its durability against scratches, bubbling and spills.

8. Apply the semi-gloss paint using a paint roller and nylon brush. Move in the same direction as the grain of the wood. Do not apply a thick coat of paint. Instead, apply a thin coat and apply a second coat after the first dries. This will leave the paint finish looking natural.

9. Allow the table top to dry overnight before putting it back in the house.

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Properties Of Iron & Steel

Properties of Iron & Steel

Very pure iron is prepared by reducing ferric oxide with hydrogen at 1,000 degrees C or by vacuum melting of a product obtained by electrolysis of ferrous ammonium sulphate solution. Chemically pure iron is produced by thermal decomposition of iron pentacarbonyl at 200 to 250 degree C, when iron is deposited as a fine powder.

Steel is manufactured by blending carbon and iron in a specified ratio, where the normal percentage of carbon ranging from 0.2 to 2.14 per cent of the total weight. Apart from carbon, the other alloying materials used in the production of steel include manganese, chromium, tungsten and vanadium.

Physical Properties of Iron

Pure iron is a grayish-white soft metal. Its melting point and boiling point are 1,528 degree C and 2,735 degree C respectively. Pure iron is malleable and ductile and does not harden on quenching. It is more magnetic than any other metal, and its magnetic properties remain unaffected even at a very high temperature. Iron is a good conductor of heat and electricity.

Physical Properties of Steel

The physical properties of steel do not resemble its component elements of carbon and iron. It is high in strength, low in weight, durable, flexible and corrosive resistant. It is highly flexible; hence it can be molded to any desired shape. One of the most important properties of steel is the ability to cool down quickly from a high temperature when exposed to water or oil. Unlike iron, steel does not rust very easily on exposure to water and moisture.

Allotropic Forms of Iron

Pure iron exists in three allotropic forms, depending on temperature. These are distinguished as α-, γ- and δ-iron respectively. These differ in their thermal stability, crystal structure, hardness, magnetic properties and in their ability to dissolve carbon.

α-iron or α-ferrite is stable below 768 degree C and the chief constituent of pure wrought iron i.e. wrought iron is the purest form of commercial iron containing 0.10 to 0.25 per cent of carbon. α-iron is soft and strongly magnetic.

γ-iron or γ---ferrite is stable between 906 degree C and 1404 degree C. Unlike α-iron, it is hard and non-magnetic.

δ-iron is stable below 1400 degree C. It is also non-magnetic in nature.

Steel Grades

Gradation of steel is carried out by many standard organizations depending on the physical properties and composition of the product. Hardness of the metal is the chief deciding factor, which differs based on the amount of carbon content. The higher the carbon content, the higher the hardness of the metal. However, a high quality steel always contain less carbon content along with less chances of fracture.

Chemical Properties of Iron

Pure iron is unaffected by dry air and pure water at ordinary temperature, but commercial iron rusts in moist air and water. Pure iron gives off hydrogen, nitrogen and carbon monoxide on heating. The metal burns brilliantly when heated in oxygen and also undergoes combustion in burning sulfur. It decomposes steam at red heat, which is utilized in the manufacture of hydrogen.

Tags: Properties Iron, Pure iron, carbon content, Iron Pure, Iron Pure iron, carbon content higher

The Best Outdoor Sofas

Outdoor furniture is a wonderful addition to any patio, front porch, or backyard, providing you with a better opportunity to enjoy your home's surroundings from a comfortable spot. Outdoor sofas are especially popular, and there are a great number of designs available. Choosing the best one is mostly a matter of personal preference and how you intend on using it. You should first decide on your preferred frame material. From there, narrow down your options based on cushion quality, and pick out your favorite designs and colors. Does this Spark an idea?

Wicker Frames

The majority of outdoor sofas available have wicker frames, which come in a variety of colors and are beautiful displayed in any garden. Wicker frames are usually treated to make them weather-resistant. Wicker made of synthetic materials or bamboo are the most durable. Overall, wicker is lighter, more comfortable, more flexible, and cheaper than solid wood or metal, but it is more prone to suffering from extreme heat and humidity and mildew growth. Take into consideration your local climate when choosing your outdoor furniture.

Wooden Frames

Most wooden sofas are made of teak, which is an exceptionally dense wood great for outdoor use because of its durability and natural water resistance. Though attractive and shiny when new, teak wood will change in appearance within the first year, becoming weathered and silver-gray. Many people like this natural rustic look, but it is important to know what to expect before buying. If you prefer the original shiny golden look, products are available that will keep your teak furniture looking brand new if applied often enough. Another high-quality, weather-resistant wood is selunsar, which is very similar to teak wood. An advantage of selunsar wood is that it works as a natural insect repellent.

Metal Frames

Metal frames are also a possibility for outdoor sofas. A bit more costly, they are sturdier and longer-lasting than their wooden counterparts. Their surfaces are generally treated to resist rusting, so they fare well through various types of weather. Aluminum is the cheapest and lightest of the available metal frames. Wrought iron is another option; it is much heavier and has a charming, old-fashioned look to it. Its great if strong winds are frequent in your area, but avoid wrought iron if you plan on moving your sofa around. Stainless steel is a third option; it is weather-resistant with an average weight.

Cushions

Depending on whether you intend on bringing your cushions inside when not in use or always leaving them out, a few options are available as far as different materials. The most softest and most comfortable materials are acrylic, olefin, and spun polyester. PVC is a more durable material, but it feels stiff. These materials are all water resistant and stain, mildew, and fade resistant. Regardless, it is recommended not to leave cushions out in full sun for long periods of time.

Tags: outdoor sofas, teak wood

French Patio Decorating Ideas

Iron bistro chairs are ideal for a French-inspired patio.

French style is sometimes rustic and charming, while other times pristine and tailored. Whether it's casual or formal, it is always sophisticated. If you are looking for an elegant and interesting way to decorate your outdoor patio, consider using elements of French country and French Provencal design. The light and airy color scheme and the durable furniture and accessory style is ideal for an outdoor space. Does this Spark an idea?

Traditional Fabrics

Use fabrics to enhance your French decorating scheme. For example, try using fabric awnings, table runners, rugs, curtains and accessories to add style and elegance to your porch. To give your fabrics a French charm, use traditional prints. For example, use simple striped prints, or fabrics that feature small, repeated floral or damask patterns. Toile fabrics are also a staple of French design. These fabrics are often mostly cream or white. They feature single colored pastoral images, hand-drawn and repeated over the fabric. These prints can also translate into art and accessories for your porch.

Rustic Furniture

Aged and rustic furniture are ideal for French style. Consider warming up your patio with wooden benches and chairs painted in white and sanded to look aged. For a more French bistro look, use iron bistro chairs in black, white or copper to create an inviting space on your patio. A small table with a bright striped awning will complement this bistro style as well. Wooden furniture featuring more intricate detail work will add sophistication to your porch as well as highlight a more French Provencal look.

Color Scheme

The color scheme for your French patio should be mostly composed of light and airy neutrals, with contrasting colors for bits of interest. The contrast of black and white can be included in the patio flooring with a checker pattern reminiscent of a bistro. Or you can complement your neutral creams and whites with pops of antiqued gold, sunny yellows and china blue.

Plant Life

France is a place known for its food, so it's no surprise that the plants that fill their gardens are often as edible as they are beautiful. Accent your French inspired patio with colorful and flavorful herbs that you can actually harvest for your nightly meals. Try using rosemary, purple basil, sage, parsley and more. Colorful flowers such as tulips and lavender are also ideal for French outdoor patio spaces, as is creeping ivy to fill your space with lush shades of green. Plant your garden in stone or rustic looking planters to complete the French theme.

Tags: your French, your porch, bistro chairs, black white, color scheme, French Provencal

Southwest Home Decorating Ideas

Colors such as orange and blue are often used together in Southwest decorating.

The area known as the Southwest ranges from the Grand Canyon to the Mexican border and includes the states of Nevada, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico. Southwestern design is known for its relaxed, casual and rustic feel. Southwestern style is easily identifiable by the use of bright colors and decorating with Native American crafts from pottery to colorful woven fabrics. Does this Spark an idea?

Colors

Dozens of colors can be used in your home to reflect the Southwest. These colors can be used when choosing paint color, accessories and soft furnishings. Some of these colors include sage green, adobe red, orange, salmon pink, turquoise and desert-toned neutral hues such as beige and brown. Other colors you can use in Southwest decorating are bright yellow, light blue and teal. Some ways that you can combine these colors are to use sage, brown, orange and teal; adobe red, beige, brown and orange or salmon pink, turquoise, yellow and brown.

Fabrics

Upholstery in Southwestern decorating is usually made of woven fabrics, suede or leather. Depending on the look you are going for, the leather may be distressed. Woven fabrics, some of which have colorful diamond patterns or images of animals such as eagles or rabbits, are characteristics of Southwestern design. Fabrics with these designs may be found in the form of throw pillows, bedspreads, blankets, tapestries and area rugs. Additionally, painted hides, furs and skins are used in Southwestern design.

Furniture

For furniture that is not upholstered, such as chairs and tables, wood is the most common choice of material. The kind of wood used is usually rustic pine in a distressed finish instead of clean lines. Furniture may also be a combination of materials such as wrought iron, wood and leather. Tables are usually large and rectangular in shape and may be carved. Southwestern furniture is also known for its metal accents, especially by the use of "clavos," or decorative nails. This rustic, decorative element are made of iron or aluminum and are also often used to decorate doors and gates.

Accessories

The finishing touches for Southwest decorating are the accessories that you choose. Painted terracotta pottery, woven baskets made of pine needles and yucca, and kiva ladders are just some of the things that you can use to decorate your home. Colorful tiles may be used on the walls and countertops and as flooring material. Wrought iron is also used in decorative elements such as in candelabras or wall art in the shape of a bucking horse, coyote or cactus. The use of rawhide lampshades, Native American medicine sticks, steer skulls, bows and arrows and dream catchers also add a touch of the Southwest in your home.

Tags: Southwest decorating, Southwestern design, your home, beige brown, brown orange, colors used, Native American

Styles Of Mini Wine Racks

Available in many styles, the tabletop mini wine rack sometimes accommodates wineglasses as well.

Since the majority of wine is consumed mere days after purchase, most wine drinkers find it impractical to invest money or precious space in a wine cellar or cabinet. A mini wine rack might prove the best solution, with a range of styles and sizes to accommodate available space and decor. Capable of holding a single bottle or even dozens of them, these racks can be free-standing, suspended from the ceiling or mounted on walls or existing furniture. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Location

Natural and artificial light, vibration, excessive heat or cold, too much or too little humidity, and changes in temperature can spoil wine over time. While these factors will have less of an effect on short-term storage, it might be best to locate a wine rack away from stoves, windows, dishwashers and clothes dryers. Bottles should also be stored on their sides so corks stay moist and sediment collects on the sides of the bottles, rather than at their bottoms or necks. Consequently, the horizontal dimensions of even the slimmest wine rack will measure at least the length and width of a bottle, and space must be allotted for such.

Free-Standing

Perhaps the most common and versatile choice of storage is the tabletop wine rack. Size and style can range from a wire cradle or even a re-purposed ski designed to hold a single bottle, to an elaborate, multi-bottle rack whose beauty enhances the room's decor. Sometimes several bottles of wine are supported lying on their sides across two parallel slats of wood with strategically positioned notches carved into them. Made from wood, metal, wrought iron and various other sturdy materials, a wine rack might consist of a simple grid of diamond-, square- or U-shaped cubbies. Other racks incorporate seemingly random scrollwork patterns offering circular supports for the bottom and neck of each bottle. Accommodating anywhere from one bottle to dozens of them, tabletop wine racks can rest on any flat surface of sufficient size and sturdiness: counter tops, kitchen islands, bookcases, floors or even inside cabinets or closets.

Mounted

If counter or floor space is precious, consider investing in a wall-mounted wine rack. Bottles nested in such a rack might be pointing out into the room or lying parallel to the wall. Some wall-mounted wine racks, intended to be merely functional and even discreet, work as little more than shelves for the bottles. Others resemble works of art, with bottles positioned around and as part of decorative elements or mirrors. As another alternative, some wine racks can be discreetly attached to the side of existing furniture or to the underside of wall-mounted cabinets.

Hanging

Wine lovers lacking sufficient wall, floor or counter space -- or ones who just really like the idea -- might choose to install hanging wine racks, which are suspended from the ceiling. Varying in size from capacity for just a few bottles to a structure the size of a table, these racks can be functional or decorative and are often made out of metal or wood available in various finishes. Some of these racks are suspended from chains, while others are fastened to the ceiling much as a hanging light fixture might be. Hanging wine racks might accommodate space for wineglasses as well and even hang over kitchen islands to serve as accessories for impromptu cocktail bars.

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Date Wagner Cast Iron Cookware

Wagner cast iron pans are collectables.

The Wagner Manufacturing company began making cookware in 1891 in Sidney, Ohio. Today, collectors prize Wagner cast iron frying pans, Dutch ovens and bakeware for both its beauty and durability. You can find Wagner cookware at garage and estate sales, thrift stores, antique stores and from online dealers. Dating Wagner cast iron can be tricky, but several clues can help you arrive at the approximate date your cookware was manufactured. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Turn over your cookware so the bottom is facing up. Make note of all markings on the bottom of the pan and their location. At various times the Wagner Manufacturing Company used curved and straight logos, with or without the "Sidney, O" designation underneath. Some older pans have no logo at all. Pans may or may not say Made in the USA. Also look for a size designation, usually a number, such as 8.

2. Examine the construction of the pan. Very old pans have a raised ring around the bottom. This kept the cookware from direct contact with the top of a wood stove. Study how the handle is connected to the cookware. Note if there is a sharp ridge or a hollowed-out section where handles connect to the bodies of skillets. All these things provide clues to the age of your cookware.

3. Consult a reputable guidebook. "The Book of Griswold and Wagner" is favored by many collectors. Compare the pictures in the guidebook with your cookware. Compare the markings on your cookware to the markings listed in the guidebook.

4. Post pictures of your skillet on the forum for Wagner and Griswold collectors. These collectors will help you identify and date your cookware.

Tags: your cookware, cast iron, Wagner cast iron, date your, date your cookware

Decorate With Metal Bed Frames

If you are looking for a bedroom makeover, a good place to start is with the central piece in the room: the bed. Wrought iron metal bed frames, available in many styles and colors, are a chic option that is durable as well as affordable. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Determine the overall look and feel of your room. Is it romantic? Contemporary? Tuscan? Shabby chic?

2. Select a color. The key to using wrought iron to enhance a bedroom's decor is to accent the rest of the furniture, not match it. Mix nickel or brass with white furniture and cream; nickel or black with darker furniture.

3. Select a style based on your room's overall look and feel from Step 1. Try an ornate bed frame for a romantic room, a simple-line black frame for Tuscan decor, straight lines in shiny black or nickel for a contemporary look and a cream chipped-finished frame for a shabby chic room. Consider a canopy with sheer white drapery panels for an elegant touch to a wrought iron bed frame.

Tags: look feel, overall look, overall look feel, wrought iron, your room

Landscape Around Trees Using Edging

Proper edging will help a tree live to its full, expected life span.

Trees are the focal point of many landscaped yards, and setting them off by placing edging around them enhances their looks, adds nutrition and provides protection. Edging comes in styles to fit any landscaping theme, including flat bricks level with the lawn, bricks and stones that create an island effect, rubber edging that disappears into the ground and even edging that simulates a miniature white picket or wrought-iron fence around the trees. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Analyze the overall aspect of the home, lawn and trees to see how you want the area to look. Flat edging even with the grass does not draw attention to itself, while a more stylized look captures attention when viewed. Mixing styles such as a more rustic cedar plank edging with a modern architectural style may not blend well.

2. Consider how much time you have available for yard maintenance. A flat stone edging is easily mowed over while an edging that is higher than the lawn level will have to have the nearby grass trimmed by hand or with a string trimmer.

3. Group together nearby trees within the same edging to provide a sense of continuity to the lawn. If too many trees have separate edging, the lawn can look choppy instead of flowing. If the trees are too far apart to belong in the same group, it is acceptable to have separate edging for them. Trees that are near the house may tie the edging in with the foundation.

4. Extend the edging from the trunk to the tree's dripline for optimum spacing, according to the University of Massachusetts.

5. Install the edging as directed by the instructions that come with it. Simple edging, such as fences, are just pushed into the ground, while blocks are inserted into a trench dug to meet their width and length.

6. Fill the complete interior from the edging to the tree trunk with landscaping fabric, and then put a layer of mulch over that. Choices for mulch include wood chips, tree bark, stone and lava rock. Organic mulches have to be replaced over time, while inorganic mulches are more permanent. Do not pile the mulch up against the tree bark, but instead leave several inches between it and the tree.

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Ideas For A Townhouse Garden

It's easy to recreate your favorite garden concept on a small scale. Tips include realizing your limitations--don't plant a towering oak or overwhelming pine tree, for example--and trying to create the illusion of more space through layering vegetation and varying topography. You also want to create a comfortable, inviting environment, so include seating. And keep in mind that where you live will dictate, to an extent, what you plant, since not all plants thrive in all climates. Does this Spark an idea?

The Basics

These three design ideas all assume you have a standard square or rectangular area behind your townhouse with about 200 to 500 square feet of total space. Plants and other items are readily available at home improvement, home decor and garden stores.

Before you begin planting, map out what you are going to do on paper. Use graph paper to get the proper proportions. Figure out exactly what you want, and where you want it; then call around to get prices so you can figure out an estimated budget. Once you've located all the items and figured out how much you're going to spend, get to work.

Tropical Paradise

Start with the hardscape: use old brick to build a patio, leaving a perimeter of about 3 feet on the sides and 4 to 5 feet in the back.

Till the dirt areas and blend with potting mix, peat moss and sand. Put up a trellis on all three sides and plant Cape Honeysuckle, a scrambling shrub that grows fast and within about a year should cover your walls with rich green leaves and vibrant orange flowers.

Install a lava rock fountain in the center back; these are self-contained but do need an electrical source nearby for the pump.

Plant a pair of dwarf palms on either side of the fountain. Then plant a cluster of three king palms in each of the two back corners, and maybe throw in a tiki next to one cluster.

Layer the rest of your landscaping: ferns in the back, interspersed with , day lilies, fuchsias and, in the shady areas under the palms, bromeliads. Buy several bags of lava rock and scatter so they cover all the exposed surface between plants as well as the space between the plants and your brick patio. They look great and help the ground retain moisture.

For furniture, get an outdoor dining set with a thatch umbrella, or a cluster of two to four chairs around a fire pit.

Half a dozen tiki torches stuck in the ground are the final touch.

English Rose Garden

For a more serene, cultured townhouse garden, try an English rose garden. Create a patio, using interlocking cobblestone paving stones.

Install trellises on all three sides but use them to support climbing roses or ivy.

Get a cherub fountain or a bird bath, position in the center back and put a white wooden arbor around it. Plant more ivy or climbing roses on either side of the arbor and trail upward.

Plant rose bushes in all three sections of soil, about three feet apart, and buy a few stone or stone-look statues to position around your garden.

Buy several bags of pebbles or river rock and cover all exposed areas of dirt.

For your patio, get an elegant wrought iron outdoor dining or seating set.

Been Through the Desert

For warmer Southwest climates, a low-maintenance cactus or succulent garden can't be beat. Start with a patio--this time, gray gravel will do--and treat the surrounding patches of soil. Put bougainvillea on your trellises and layer succulents, cacti and rocks around your garden. As a centerpiece, try an old wagon wheel leaning up against a saguaro or desert willow.

For seating, buy an all-wood set and either stain gray or let age naturally. And, of course, you're going to need a firepit to enjoy those cool, high lonesome desert nights.

Tags: around your, around your garden, between plants, center back, climbing roses, cover exposed

The Best Color Wood To Put With A Black Metal Bed

Black metal beds work with a variety of wood flooring and furniture styles.

The beauty of a black metal or wrought-iron bed is its versatility. Whether the bed's design is modern, Gothic or rustic, it can work with a wide variety of room styles. Select the right wood tones for the furniture and flooring to highlight the look of your metal bed or allow it to blend into the room's d cor. The earth tones of wood pair easily with the neutral shade of black, giving you the full spectrum of floor and furniture options to decorate your bedroom. Does this Spark an idea?

Light Wood Colors

Pale blond woods such as birch contrast dramatically with your black metal bed, making it a focal point in the room. This color combination works well for modern designs. Add modular birch furniture and white bedding to a simple black metal bed for a simple, spa-like feel. Consider a wrought-iron headboard with an ornate leaf design and create a sophisticated contemporary bedroom with black-and-white print bedding, black lacquer furniture and light wood flooring.

Medium Wood Tones

Use the warm brown and red tones of oak and light cherry woods to incorporate your metal bed into traditional and country-style rooms. Use distressed oak, knotty woods or cedar on both the walls and floor and add a homemade quilt to an old-fashioned black metal bed. Or create a Tuscan bedroom with a metal canopy bed, heavy burl wood furniture, plaster walls and rustic wood ceiling beams. Choose oak and cherry combinations for the dressers and night stands, then add a smooth cherry floor for a more contemporary feel.

Dark Woods

Use dark cherry mahogany and walnut woods to accent an ornate, Gothic-style bed. Keep the floor and bedding dark. Draw the focus to the furniture by choosing individual pieces of various sizes in slightly lighter shades of wood, rather than a matched set. Blend the elegance of the bed into the room with rich fabrics and dark, intricately carved furniture with lighter wood inlays. Create a warm and comfortable space with a heavy, iron four-poster bed by adding traditional, deep cherry furniture and flooring. Contrast the black metal and darker wood with a cream area rug and patterned bedding. For a more modern spin, try a deep walnut floor, black painted furniture and burgundy fabrics.

Eclectic Room Style

A simple rounded black metal headboard would provide an unobtrusive addition to an eclectic room. Choose a dual-color wood floor in dark walnut and brown oak and add antique furniture in various wood shades and design styles. Add a few white-washed pieces, white or pastel bedding and rustic wooden chairs for a French country feel. Create a more whimsical space with pale birch floors and painted wood furniture in primary colors.

Tags: black metal, bedroom with, black metal, furniture flooring, into room, space with, wood flooring

Design An Italian Kitchen

A traditional Italian kitchen is more than a room to store pots and pans. It is a gathering place, an espresso bar, a spot to view the garden and, of course, the room for trying out recipes and planning menus. Italian kitchens marry form and function by eschewing clutter in favor of beautiful basics. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Determine the scope of your project. If you aim for a full kitchen redesign, you can renovate Italian-style by installing marble counters, terracotta floors and incorporating architectural features such as arches, niches and columns. Plan a big picture window above the kitchen sink to take in the garden flowers or even outdoor statuary or a water feature.

2. Consider color. No matter the scope of the project, wall, floor, counter and furniture colors are a decisive factor in Italian style. Natural tones are ideal, but this goes far beyond shades of brown. There is the gold of sand or ripe pears, the blue of the Mediterranean, the burgundies of wine, the green of olives and the rich reds of peppers. Rather than creating a pristine environment, consider adding texture, faux finishes and shabby chic accents to lend the kitchen an old world charm.

3. Diversify the palette with accent shades. Hand-painted tiles with indigo, burnt orange or sunflower-yellow details add Italian panache. Try complementing the wall colors with an earthy or bright shade on the trim, baseboards, door or window frames. Bright copper pans, bouquets of wildflowers, stacks of ripe fruit and earthenware bowls also add color.

4. Purchase a few pieces that reflect Italian style. You can invest in a vintage wooden table or a metal Italian bistro set with a mosaic tile tabletop. Add chunky metal hardware to cabinets or punctuate the wall with wrought-iron pieces. Comb the goods at a local flea market, yard sale or antique store for fruit bowls, clay pots, wooden shelves or a wine rack.

5. Accessorize the kitchen with Italian items. Select items that are useful and, preferably, hand-crafted, such as painted canisters or framed landscape paintings. Bring nature to the kitchen by displaying fresh produce in bowls, setting a blossom afloat in a flowered teacup, placing leafy plants on shelves and allowing in natural light with sheer curtains.

Tags: Italian style

Essex Vinyl Fencing Installation

The Essex Fence Company strives for customer satisfaction and offers a variety of fencing products including aluminum, wood and vinyl. According to the Essex Fence website, each vinyl fencing panel is built by hand and is durable for years. Vinyl fencing provides an attractive, low-maintenance option for backyard privacy and containment. Installing an Essex vinyl fence is relatively easy with the proper equipment and a few simple tips. Does this Spark an idea?

Before You Start

Before you begin your fencing project, check with your town's or city's building department. Your area may have specific codes of which you should be aware and you may need to get a building permit prior to installing the fence. Make sure that you have clearly identified your property line so that you do not inadvertently go over your boundaries. Another good idea is to contact your utility companies (such as cable, telephone, gas, electric and water) to mark underground utility lines prior to digging.

Laying the Fence Line

Determine how and where you want your fence line to be and add stakes to the area to mark corners and gates. Laying out the fence design prior to installation helps ensure an easy installation and optimal results. To determine the location of a post hole, measure your Essex panel and add the post's width. Your post holes should have a diameter of 12 inches and a depth of 30 inches. Start by digging enough holes to install three or four panels. Measure the panel rail locations and mark the position for the brackets on your post. While measuring, the floating top rail should be positioned completely down on the panel frame to allow for the panel's contraction and expansion.

Installing Brackets

The post bracket distance is determined by measuring the distance from the bottom of the bottom rail to the bottom portion of the top rail. This is integral to marking the post for the top and bottom brackets. The top bracket should be located 2 inches below the top of the post, while the bottom bracket should be placed using the post bracket distance measurement. Now you're ready to attach the fence rail brackets to the post.

Installing Panels

To install your Essex vinyl fencing panels, start by placing the posts in the appropriate holes. Place the fencing panel into the brackets and use screws to attach the panel in place. There should be approximately 2 inches between the bottom of the panel and the ground. Add concrete to the post holes and allow it to set. Follow the directions supplied by the concrete manufacturer regarding mixing and time needed for the concrete to set.

Tags: bracket distance, bracket should, Essex Fence, Essex vinyl, fencing panel

Paint Furniture Spanish Style

Redoing a room in Spanish style can be cost-prohibitive. Fortunately, there are a wealth of paints, glazes, tricks and tools in craft stores that can help decorators create the Spanish look without laying out a bunch of Euros. Some sweat equity and a bit of vision will help you lend your home some old world charm. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Get inspired by looking at pictures of Spanish style furniture. Accents of Salado (see Resources below) is a website jammed with images showing Spanish colonial and hacienda styles. There is also advice on add color and texture to a room to give it Spanish pizzazz.

2. Choose pieces to paint in the Spanish style. For an authentic Spanish look, select pieces that are carved from wood. Chests, shelves, side tables and cabinets that feature hand carving, leather tops or wrought iron accents are perfect for a Spanish interior. A simple, rustic wood table is also a good place to start.

3. Select a Spanish palette. You are aiming for bold, warm colors in earth tones. If you want to use wood stain, the classic tones are walnut, chestnut, mahogany, cedar and oak. Go for rich, dark hues, or, on smaller pieces, try a bright gold, deep red, indigo or olive green.

4. Choose a painting style. You can quickly update a piece of furniture in Spanish style by priming the furniture and painting it in two coats of paint from the Spanish palette. You can opt to stain the piece. Or you can try for a faux finish that has a Spanish accent, such as applying a varnish that artificially ages the furniture. Craft stores sell crackle glazes and antiquing veneers that are ideal for this sort of renovation.

5. Embellish the piece. You can create the effect of wear and tear by sanding the edges of the furniture once the paint is dry. You can replace the furniture's current hardware with pieces that look Spanish. Think chunky hardware in wrought iron, aged copper or bronze. You can even add a mosaic tile tabletop or a indigo glass inlay to give the furniture a Spanish artisan look.

Tags: pieces that, Spanish look, Spanish palette, Spanish style, Spanish style, wrought iron

Styles Of Antique Chandelier Lighting

Styles of Antique Chandelier Lighting

Today, no light fixture is more elegant than a hanging chandelier. Yet each of the decorative features primarily associated with chandeliers--cut glass, colored sconces and wrought iron--weren't invented only for their beauty. Throughout history, chandeliers have been designed largely in response to lighting technologies, from candles, to kerosene glass, to the electric light bulb. Does this Spark an idea?

Flame

From the middle ages until the invention of gas lighting in 1792, all chandeliers used wax candles. In 1676, glass maker George Ravenscroft invented a reflective, lead-based crystal that refracted candlelight, allowing chandeliers to increase their luminescence and ushering in the era of the cut-glass chandelier. Antique, candle-burning chandeliers are still considered among the most elegant and collectible, although they are also among the most difficult to use and maintain. Some have been retrofitted for electric lights.

Gas

Gas chandeliers appeared shortly after British engineer William Murdoch made a public display of coal gas lighting at London's Soho Foundry in 1802. By the 1830s, most major cities had adopted gas street lighting. In 1875, massive gas chandeliers (sometimes called "gasoliers") filled the lobby of Paris's new Opera Garnier and became famous the world over as the "falling chandeliers" of Gaston Leroux's 1909 novel "The Phantom of the Opera." Antique gas-lit chandeliers are often covered in colored-glass sconces to help soften the brightness of gas light.

Electric

The first gas-electric combination chandelier appeared in 1890. The increased brightness of electric lighting allowed for the formerly functional aspects of chandelier design--cut crystal, colored-glass sconces--to become purely decorative elements. Chandeliers from the early 20th century celebrated their liberation from functionality by featuring curlicue metal and elaborate hanging pendants. Many modernist design aesthetics, such as art deco and the bauhaus, saw chandeliers as outdated remnants from a less technologically advanced era, although simple chandelier designs became a common feature in middle-class homes after World War II.

Tags: among most, Antique Chandelier, Antique Chandelier Lighting, Chandelier Lighting, have been, Styles Antique, Styles Antique Chandelier

A Canopy To A Metal Day Bed

Sheer fabrics such as tulle make a colorful day bed canopy.

A multi-purpose daybed provides a spot to relax at all hours, whether using it for sleeping or lounging. While daybeds come in a wide range of styles, one with a metal frame lends a classic appeal, whether it's ornate wrought iron or a simple stainless steel pattern. Adding a canopy gives it a whimsical look and draws attention to the daybed. Create your own using the fabric pattern of choice. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Take the measurements for the fabric. Measure from the floor on the side of the daybed to the center of the ceiling above the daybed. Measure the length and depth of the daybed.

2. Cut three panels of fabric in colors that coordinate with the room decor, based on the measurements. Use a sheer fabric such as tulle to allow light to pass through or a thick fabric like canvas for a thicker, natural look.

3. Cut three pieces of fabric to that length and a width of at least 44 inches.

4. Open and separate the two rings of an 18-inch embroidery hoop. Cut two pieces of ribbon that are 22 inches long. Tie one ribbon across the inner ring of the embroidery hoop. Tie the other ribbon across the inner ring to form an "X" shape.

5. Fold about 2 inches of fabric over the outer ring of the embroidery hoop. Insert the inner ring into the outer ring and tighten to secure the fabric.

6. Drill a pilot hole into the ceiling at the center of the daybed. Screw a pot rack hook into the pilot hole. Slip the fabric "X" in the center of the embroidery hoop over the hook to mount the canopy.

7. Drape the center piece of fabric along the back of the daybed and the other two on either side to complete the canopy.

Tags: embroidery hoop, inner ring, across inner, across inner ring, outer ring, pilot hole, ribbon across

Curtain Rod Options

Decorative curtain rods are a popular option.

Curtain rods are a necessary part of window decor, supporting curtain panels and allowing them to be drawn. Some rods are purely decorative, such as bracket-mounted wooden poles with finials. Others are purely functional, such as a conventional traverse rod. Rods can be purchased ready made or can be custom made to fit the window dimensions. A rod should always be chosen to support the weight of the drapes. Does this Spark an idea?

Decorative Rods

Decorative curtain rods, also known as poles, are used for stationary panels. These rods are attached to the wall just above and outside the window. The window treatment is hung from the pole on rings or clips, by fabric strips or by a rod pocket. Types of decorative rods include wooden, iron, metal or resin. Wooden decorative rods can be stained, painted or faux-finished to appear metallic, marble or verdigris. Metal poles made of wrought iron, nickel, pewter, brass or bronze also are available. Decorative rods usually feature finials, or decorative motifs such as balls, leaves, scrolls or shepherd's hooks, at the ends.

Traverse Rods

Traverse rods are used with curtains that you draw. This type of rod features a track system with plastic or brass runners that glide along the track to open or close the curtains. The curtains are attached to the runners with curtain hooks or pins. Traverse rods come in basic and expandable types. Basic is a fixed size; expandable enlarges by pulling the ends. Most traverse rods are not decorative. They are usually concealed behind a valance or cornice. More expensive decorative styles, where the rod is concealed behind a hollow pole, are available.

Tension Rods

Tension rods have rubber tips and a spring mechanism that holds them securely within the window frame. Tension rods are used on recessed windows, where other rods are not practical. Cafe curtains often hang on tension rods, as do sheers covering an entry-door sidelight. Tension rods are only useful for light-weight curtains or sheers, as they do not support much weight. Shower curtains are typically hung on tension rods as well.

Other Types

Other types of rods also are available. Swivel rods are hinged and swing away from the window when open. Wire rods consist of metal wire held by small brackets. Because they are easily angled, they are useful for bow, bay and corner windows. Continental rods are wide, flat, metal fixtures for valances or curtains with a large heading. This rod ranges from 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 inches long. Double-track rods have two tracks, each with its own pulley, for inner and outer curtain panels. A triple track is also available for two curtains and a valance.

Tags: also available, Tension rods, concealed behind, curtain panels, curtain rods, Decorative curtain

About Marble Coffee Tables

No two marble slabs look alike.

For many, a marble coffee table screams 'elegance,' 'sophistication' and 'style.' These coffee tables are always unique, as no two marble slabs have the same patterns and appearance. Knowing the basics of a marble table will help you determine if a marble coffee table is best for you. Does this Spark an idea?

Shapes and Size

Marble coffee tables come in nearly every shape and size. Round, oval, square and rectangular shapes are the most common and readily available. However, it is possible to also find coffee tables that are hexagonal or even clover-shaped. Homeowners can also build their own marble coffee table and request a specific size and shape through a marble manufacturer.

Style

The bases used for the marble top can vary the overall style and feel of the coffee table. For example, a wooden table base can be either contemporary, modern or traditional, depending on the style and color of the wood and the color and shape of the marble top. Meanwhile, wrought iron bases can be either traditional or contemporary, depending on the appearance of the wrought iron and the coloring of the marble table top. A pedestal-style base can make the room feel elegant or Victorian if darker colors are used, but the same table in different colors such as white marble paired with a white base can also make the room feel shabby chic or cottage chic.

Price

Price for a marble coffee table can vary greatly depending on style, size and even age. Antique marble tables can go for $100 or several thousand dollars, depending on the condition and quality of the table. Meanwhile, newly manufactured marble coffee tables can also be relatively low in price, starting around $150, and going up into the thousands.

Faux Marble Coffee Tables

Faux marble coffee tables are a great option for those who do not wish to shell out the money for a real marble-topped table. Strides in manufacturing have created faux marble tops that look real, making it difficult to tell the difference between a true marble coffee table and a faux one. Faux marble coffee tables cost significantly less, starting as low as $60.

Caring for True Marble Coffee Tables

Natural stone is beautiful, but it requires very specific care. While a faux marble table may be cleaned with an all-purpose cleaner, true marble is more difficult to clean. Real marble is surprisingly absorbent, so spills and harsh cleaners can cause serious damage to the marble's appearance. Avoid products that are high in acid, including "all purpose" cleaners and vinegar. Instead, opt for neutral cleaners such as phosphate-free biodegradable liquid soaps or even simply using a damp cloth. If spills occur, clean them up immediately to minimize damage. Acidic drinks such as sodas and orange juice can be particularly damaging if not cleaned up immediately.

Tags: coffee table, marble coffee table, marble coffee, coffee tables, marble coffee tables

Diy Wrought Iron Railing Kit

Wrought iron railings can enhance your home's exterior.

Wrought iron railings are a classic option for your home. They are durable, attractive and have a timeless appeal. Installing a wrought iron railing is something that you can do yourself. Railing kits come assembled and are mounted to the step portion of the stairs. Wrought iron railings are typically used in combination with cement stairs. The process for installing wrought iron on wood and cement is the same with the exception of the fasteners used. For wood, you would use lag screws designed for wood. On cement installations, you need to pre-drill the hole and use cement screws. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Position the wrought iron railing at the edge of the cement stairs in the place that you want it. Measure the distance from the mounts to the edge of the stairs with a tape measure to make sure that the spacing is even.

2. Mark the mounting holes in the mounts at the base of the railing onto the cement stairs with a pencil. Set the railing aside. Drill the holes to the depth of the length of the screws with a hammer drill and drill bit that is 1/16 inch smaller than the screws.

3. Align the holes in the mounts at the base of the railing with the drilled holes in the steps. Drive the screws through the holes in the mounts into the cement stairs with a screw gun.

Tags: cement stairs, holes mounts, iron railings, stairs with, Wrought iron railings, base railing

Table Bases That Will Hold Granite

A heavy granite tabletop needs a strong base.

The heavy weight of granite tabletops require adequate support underneath to prevent the table from toppling over. Not only requiring a sturdy base, its appearance must match the beauty of its top in a stately way. Beyond securing the granite to a base that endures, selecting the right table base then becomes a matter of preference, and you have several choices to choose from. Does this Spark an idea?

Cast-Iron Column

A table base with one to a few cast iron columns makes a stable table base for a granite top. The cast iron columns will not bend or warp under the pressure of weight and with several of them, the weight of the granite can be evenly distributed across them. This lessens the burden on the columns and the stress on the inflexible granite top. A cast-iron-column base adds a touch of vintage flair to a granite top. Its heavy weight stabilizes the table, so one column might be enough of a support, depending on how wide the diameter of the table is.

Wrought Iron

Bringing back the decorative, sometimes ornate, styles of wrought iron tables, one outfitted with a granite top would complete its look of elegance. Wrought iron can be custom-fabricated to the design taste. And this can span practically all design styles. The engineering if this table is integral to its support capabilities. Its top must be level, and the entire unit must be perfectly balanced, with and without the weight of the granite, because that would be a sure sign of its durability as a supportive table base.

Steel

A steel-, or stainless steel-, columned stable base makes for a contemporary version of the cast-iron-column model. While steel is slightly lighter than cast iron, when designed for a granite table, it does bear its own weight and provides adequate support for a table top. A steel model, though, would be more suited for a multiple-columned base. The extra columns simply reinforce the design and weight of the table, distributing the granite's weight and supporting all of the weight, even when leaned on or moved.

Wood

The play of wood against a granite tabletop should mimic the play of a granite countertop against cabinetry. The best wooden base for a granite tabletop uses 4-by-4 inch wood posts built into a strong frame whose leg are supported with horizontal reinforcement bars. Wood also offers some options in its design, such as working with commercial lumber pieces or using a large tree log, or logs to form the base of the table.

The Sub-Top

With all of the table models, the addition of a sub-top -- a supportive base for the table top, usually made of wood -- plays an important function in the longevity of the granite table. Stress can be applied to any section of the table's area and the contact points of the table base below can add even more stress to the solid granite top. The sub-top then acts as a bridge that evenly distributes the stress of the contact points from the base, creating a durable, less expensive connection point for the bolts and a shock-absorbing surface to support the granite from underneath.

Tags: table base, cast iron, granite tabletop, weight granite, adequate support, base granite, base table

Strip Paint Off A Steel Storm Door

Have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of an unlikely emergency while stripping paint.

The term "stripping," in painting and finishing parlance, refers to total paint removal. When performed incorrectly, the paint stripping process is tedious and difficult. When performed using the right techniques, paint stripping is relatively easy and straightforward. If you plan to strip paint from a steel storm door, you're in a good position for success, as steel is highly suited for aggressive removal methods. Before you roll up your sleeves and start scraping, learn the most efficient way to loosen the old paint or you may end up frustrated and exhausted.

Instructions

1. Unscrew the storm door from its hinges and take it outdoors. Place the door on a canvas drop cloth in a shady area.

2. Pour a half-gallon of solvent-based paint stripper into a plastic painter's pot. Apply stripper to the storm door, using a china brush. Immediately lay a plastic drop cloth over the top of the door.

3. Wait 10 minutes, then remove the plastic.

4. Scrape off the paint, using a molding scraper and metallic putty knife.

5. Remove remaining paint residue using a nylon scrub pad dampened with mineral spirits. Let the door dry for one hour before hanging it back up on the hinges.

Tags: drop cloth, paint stripping, storm door, When performed

Handmade Iron Fireplace Tools

Fireplace tools have been hand-forged since medieval times.

Hand-forged tools made by blacksmiths have been essential parts of daily living in the United States since colonial times. According to an 18th century Colonial Williamsburg trades sampler, the village blacksmith was so named due to his work with black metals of iron and steel. Fireplace tools were forged to meet the daily needs of colonists. Modern smithies produce fireplace tools in styles to match your needs and decorating style. Does this Spark an idea?

Hand-Wrought Traditional and Custom Tools

Adorn your fireplace with handcrafted wrought iron fireplace tools from Wisconsin based Wrought Iron Solutions. Fireplace tool sets can be finished in high temperature tolerant black paint or a more traditional oil finish. Each tool is made from solid steel bar stock with handmade, hand-wrought hardware. Several traditional styles are available to suit the specific needs of your decor. Wall and standing racks are made to coordinate with your fireplace tools and can be customized based on your storage space. The height of these tools are based on the design but most are 29 inches tall. Rack height depends on the design with the tallest being those adored with a steel moose or horse at the top. Sets come complete with three, four or five tools. Custom orders are available for tools and racks, so you'll be able to get the exact tools you'll need.

Wrought Iron Solutions, LLC

N7487 County Road E.

Ripon, WI 54971

920-748-7117

wrought-iron-solutions.com

Twisted Wrought Iron Tools

Hand-forged by Florida metal artist Bill Roberts, his signature twisted set of hand wrought iron fireplace tools are made of 1/2-inch steel bar stock that has been hand-twisted and highlighted with a brass finish halfway down the shaft. The tools are traditional, finished with an oil finish and have an appearance that will fit well into a home with more rustic decor. The 31 inch tall set, appropriate for small spaces, comes with a poker, shovel and traditional straw broom made to hang next to your fireplace from the small hand-forged wall hook.

Custom Design Metal Arts

3740 NE 40th PL # D

Ocala, Florida 34479

352-351-5512

customdesignmetalarts.com

Colonial Inspired Hand-Forged Tools

Forged in the methods used by old fashioned village blacksmiths, hand-forged tools from Colonial Homes Connection are sold in five different designs. Pokers, shovels, tongs and colonial style straw brooms are sold separately and in sets that include wall or free standing racks. One of the more unique rack designs from the Washington based smithy is the Hearth Center consisting of a square free standing tool rack made to hold fireplace-ready logs in the center and four fireplace tools on the exterior corners. Tools are forged to a 26.5 inch length. The finish depends on the style. Several of these designs are recommended for heavy duty use, while two of the designs are appropriate for lighter duty.

The Colonial Homes Connection

PMB 343, 2525 E. 29th Suite 10B

Spokane, WA 99223

509-534-8916

colonialconnection.com

Tags: your fireplace, Colonial Homes, Colonial Homes Connection, fireplace tools, free standing, have been

Build A Metal Gate

A metal gate is a great accessory for a yard entrance or patio with a fence. The gate will keep animals and unwanted guests out at night, without breaking up the flow of your lawn with a solid, wood door or wall. It is also easy to open and close, and metal makes it very strong. A metal gate can be built by anyone who has knowledge of metalworking and can cut and weld metal bars. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Cut two lengths of 1-inch metal channel bar to the width of the gate. For the purposes of this article, the example will be 40 inches wide by 36 inches high.

2. Cut two more lengths of steel metal channel bar to the height of the gate, in this case, 36 inches.

3. Clamp one of the 40-inch lengths of metal channel bar into a vise so that it is horizontally aligned. Clamp the vise in the middle of the bar so that there is room on the ends to work with your welding equipment without the vise interfering.

4. Clamp the two 36-inch lengths of channel bar to the ends of the bar in the vise, using a C-clamp to hold them in place. Leave the intersection of the two bars exposed. Then create a quick tack weld along this seam using a gas welder and filler bar (#3 or #4).

5. Remove the C-clamps, and then complete the weld around the entire seam. Use a #3 filler bar to form the weld on both sides of the intersecting metal bars and along the bottom and top edges.

6. Make a mark with chalk every 4 inches along the 40-inch bar, and for every mark cut another piece of 36-inch channel bar. Weld them, one at a time, to the 40-inch bar in the same way as you did in Step 5. Move the vise around the spot you are welding to complete the entire weld.

7. Lay the other 40-inch metal channel bar across the vertically aligned 36-inch bars, and clamp it in place with a C-clamp on the ends. Complete the welds for each intersection of the 40-inch and 36-inch bars, using your gas welder and #3 or #4 filler bar, just as you did in Step 5.

8. Lay the gate into a vise so it is horizontally aligned. Then clamp one side of a metal gate hinge to the vise 8 inches from the bottom and right along the outside edge of the gate. Tack weld the corners of the hinge to the gate using a gas welder and small #3 filler bar. Then remove the vise and complete the weld. Repeat this to install another hinge on the same side; this one should be 8 inches from the top.

9. Weld a gate latch to the other side of the gate. Place the gate latch plate across the outside metal bar, clamp it in place with a C-clamp and then tack weld each corner to the bar. Remove the clamp and complete the weld, securing the gate latch to the gate. It is now ready to hang on your entryway post.

Tags: metal channel, complete weld, gate latch, 36-inch bars, clamp place

Ideas For Pool Landscaping

Backyard pool with built in planter

Landscaping allows the homeowner to tie their hardscape deck and pool features with the rest of their property. Tying things together with plants, fencing and patios allow the blending of different landscaping elements into a coherent design that is functional as well as pleasing to the eye. Patios, fencing, plants, furniture and accent pieces help give warmth and life to this outdoor living space. Choosing a landscape that complements your pool design creates a backyard oasis that you can enjoy for many years. Does this Spark an idea?

Patios

Most pool owners prefer to install patios around their pool for aesthetic and practical reasons. Patio or pool deck areas allow for excess water drainage and keep grass and mulches out of the pool. Pool decks naturally blend well with pool coping and tiles. Pool surfacing comes in such a wide variety of styles that it's sometimes difficult for the homeowner to choose. It's best to consider a surface that is as slip-free as possible. Textures, bricks, pavers and colored concrete offer viable options for the homeowner to match with the pool tile or exterior color scheme of your home. A pebbled surface produces an attractive, durable surface that doesn't attract too much heat and prevent slipping.

Fencing

Putting up a fence around the pool area is a must for every pool owner for safety reasons. Most areas require at least 4-foot high fencing around the pool including gates. Because fencing will be part of your plan, choose a fence that suite your purposes. If you just want to fence in the pool for safety, consider a lower 4-foot wider slat fence or wrought iron fencing. This covers your bases for safety and allows you to view the rest of your yard.

Blending your pool with the remainder of your backyard requires choosing fencing that covers the entire perimeter of your yard. Lower fences are certainly appropriate but many homeowners choose 6-foot stockade fencing for privacy. Your options include capped pillars, lattice tops and curved fence sections to name just a few. Visit a local fencing company to view their products for more style ideas and designs.

Plants

More than any other landscape feature, plants reflect the owner's personality. You have so many choices with your pool landscape that again, it's sometimes hard to choose. Basing your softscape choices on maintenance might help with your decision. Choose plants such as ornamental grasses, perennials and evergreen shrubs for low maintenance foliage in your backyard. Tie the gardens with the pool decking by creating rock gardens using the same color stone used for the pool deck. Pine bark nugget mulch works well in gardens bordering a pool area as do river rocks and pebbles. Creating a worry-free landscape with hardy plants allows more time for you to bask in the sun on your new patio or float on a raft in your pool.

Furniture and Containers

Landscaping also includes the furniture chosen to decorate your patio area. Patio furniture comes in every color of the rainbow so personal preference comes into play. Choose warm browns, tans and hunter green for a more sedate look to your pool area. Vibrant colors create a snap of electricity in your pool area. Blend colors to complement the exterior color palette of your home. Add coordinated container gardens with flowering annuals to provide a finishing touch to your patio tables. Tuck some containers along the edges of the pool deck or right up next to the pool edge for a tropical effect.

Tags: your pool, pool area, pool deck, with pool, your patio, around pool, exterior color

Concrete Mold Making Tips

Concrete molds can be made to build almost anything out of concrete, from gargoyles and lawn ornaments to simple concrete benches, counter tops and floor tiles. The mold only needs to withstand the pressure of the concrete and it has to be shaped to contain the form you want. For instance, a tile mold can be a simple, flat enclosed box made of plywood and held together with screws. There's a few more tips and things you should know as well. Does this Spark an idea?

Mold Materials

Concrete mold materials should be chosen for the end product. A tile or counter top mold should be made from sturdy flat melamine or plywood that is reinforced with struts. The main thing to keep in mind is support. The material has to withstand the weight of concrete. A melamine board that is 3/4 inches thick is strong enough to support 3 inches of concrete. More complex shapes should use forms that are made of clay or plastic. Always reinforce the form materials if you have doubts about their ability to hold the concrete.

Mold Building Tips

Concrete is not a completely solid material. It has pores and can easily crack after it has dried. For this reason, your mold must be completely water tight. If the mold dries unevenly because water is seeping out of one end the concrete is much more likely to crack and split. When you build a mold, always use silicone rubber caulking to seal the edges, especially between the edges of melamine boards. Apply the caulking to edges before you screw them together and then along the corners after your screw the boards together.

Making the Forms Release

Another problem people encounter when building concrete forms is the release. This is the stage when the mold form is removed. In some cases, the concrete can dry or stick to the form. Avoid this by coating the inside of the mold with release powder or compound. Use a generous application and make sure it is designed specifically for your type of concrete.

Rebar and Reinforcing the Molds

Reinforcing the molds is a wise idea. Professionals use rebar, which is long iron reinforcing bars that is strung between two concrete forms. This isn't a possibility with very small concrete forms. Instead you can insert metal mesh into the mold and pour the concrete over it. This metal mesh will hold the concrete together and reduce cracking.

Tags: concrete forms, hold concrete, metal mesh

Homemade Headboards For Kids

Get creative with your kids to make a homemade headboard that suits the design of their bedroom. Create custom artistic designs with paint, fabric and tiles to fit the age and design preferences of your child. By using materials typically reserved for your backyard landscape, you can add a charming accent to your kid's room. Does this Spark an idea?

Fabric Headboard

Cover a section of 1/4-inch thick plywood with padding, batting and fabric to make an upholstered headboard for kids. Select fabric that fits the theme of their room, such as fairy-tale princesses for little girls and dinosaurs for little boys. Older kids may prefer fabric with a more sophisticated design palette. Have the wood cut to the desired dimensions to fit the wall space behind the bed, then cut 2-inch thick upholstery padding with an electric knife to cover one side of the wood. Spray adhesive works to attach the padding to the wood. Cut batting and fabric 6 inches wider and longer than the headboard dimensions. Wrap the batting over the padding and staple it to the back of the board, then do the same with the fabric to complete the upholstered design.

Fence Headboard

Sections of picket or wrought-iron fencing work to make distinctive headboard designs for kids in a garden-themed bedroom. Anchor one fence post to the wall using wall brackets near the base and the top of the post. Attach the fencing onto the post, then fit the other post to the opposite end of the fence panel. Attach the second fence post to the wall to anchor the fence panel behind the bed.

Artistic Headboard

Let your kids design their own artistic headboard using acrylic paints and an artist canvas. Purchase one large canvas or tape several canvases together with duct tape to create a custom-sized headboard. The kids can freestyle the design, or use stencils and templates to create a structured image. Another method you can use to make a homemade headboard is to project an image from a magazine or coloring book onto the canvas, trace the design and paint between the lines. This homemade headboard project can be re-purposed as often as your kids change their minds about their bedroom design.

Mosaic Headboard

Create a colorful headboard that highlights your child's name, initials or favorite phrase using mosaic tiles. Cut a 1/4-inch thick plywood board to size and then prime and paint it to color-coordinate with your kid's bedroom. Trace letters onto the painted surface to spell out a word or to make initials. Glue mosaic tiles inside the traced letters to complete the headboard. One-part epoxy adhesive or mosaic glue works to attach the tiles. Glue the tiles with the edges touching, and there is no need to grout the project.

Tags: homemade headboard, your kids, 4-inch thick, 4-inch thick plywood, batting fabric

Paint Over A Rusted Antique Bed

Use spray paint to cover small details in the bed frame.

Collectors and those who frequent yard sales consider antique beds a prize find at most garage sales and flea markets. Prior to World War I, American-made iron beds we among the finest beds in the world. Due to their quality construction, it's not hard to restore even a rusted bed to create a beautiful place to lay your head. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove rust and flaking paint using a steel-bristled wire brush and 80-grit sandpaper. Before you paint an antique bed, you will have to remove all of the rust. Paint will not adhere to rust, so remove and neutralize the rust before painting.

2. Wipe the surface of the antique bed with mineral spirits and apply phosphoric acid to any missed or unreachable rust on the antique bed. This will convert the rust to a ferric-phosphate coating easy to scrub for removal. The acid will take a day to penetrate the rust.

3. Clean the bed frame thoroughly and remove any traces of acid or flaked material. Wipe it down with a rag and verify it is completely dry and all rust flakes have been removed before proceeding.

4. Apply a coat of oil-based primer to the bed frame and allow to dry fully. Verify the paint is appropriate for the metal of your bed.

5. Apply a finish coat using an oil-based metal-paint. Paint the entire antique bed frame from the top to the bottom. Completely paint each bar before moving on to the next. Use spray paint to reach the small crevices of scroll work and details. Antique beds were traditionally available in white or black if you want to restore the bed to its original condition. It has become trendy to paint the beds in bright, non-traditional colors such as turquoise, pink or yellow for a shabby-chic look.

Tags: spray paint

Decorate Old Shelves On The Wall

Your old shelves on the wall can be a brilliant use of space if you give them a little update. Rather than curse bulky built-ins or rip out a rustic floating shelf, make the most of old shelving by refreshing the finish and accessorizing it well. The best aspect of decorating wall shelves is that you can quickly and cheaply change their appearance according to the season, the current trends or your mood. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clear your old wall shelves. To effectively decorate your shelving, you need to begin with a clean palette. Give your shelves a good cleaning and polish, starting with a dry dusting to remove cobwebs and debris. Hit corners and crevices, including any molding or trim around the old shelves.

2. Consider your options with paint or finishes. If your old wall shelves are antiques or integrated in the home's original architecture, you may wish to avoid altering them in any way, which could adversely effect resale value. In most cases, however, a coat of stain or paint can give shelves a badly needed face-lift. You can paint wall shelves to match the surrounding wall color, or make them pop by painting them a bold shade such as periwinkle blue, seafoam green or sunny yellow. You can give an old wall shelf a shabby chic aesthetic by adding a faux finish with crackle glaze or antique whitewash. Distress the paint further by allowing it to dry and then sanding away at the edges with fine grain sandpaper.

3. Swap out shelf hardware for something more eye-catching. If your shelves feature brackets or other supports, you can invest in some wrought-iron scrolls or lightweight plaster sconces to use as stylish support. If old shelving includes handles or knobs that have no aesthetic value, switch them for vintage pieces from antique shops or flea markets.

4. Accessorize old wall shelving with interesting pieces. You can integrate family heirlooms, junkyard gems and do-it-yourself projects into shelf displays. Prop small paintings or drawings with bright compositions for a spot of color. Frame a shelf with ornate candleholders and pillar candles, or keep the look simpler with a line of tea lights and small glass bottles holding wildflowers.

5. Illuminate your old shelves to make them stand out. You can use wall sconces with candles or lights on either side of the shelf, or hang a pendant light over the shelf area. If you have a work of art on a top shelf, you can emphasize it by lighting the shelf with miniature gallery-style spotlights.

Tags: wall shelves, your shelves, your wall shelves, make them, shelf with, your wall

Exterior Iron Window Treatments

Exterior Iron Window Treatments

Did you ever wonder how beautiful your windows might look from the driveway, the street, the neighbor's yard or the backyard? Exterior iron window treatments create a respectable look for any exterior window surfaces. Treat the iron as a long-term investment. With the right metal finish, iron window treatments can withstand many weather conditions. Does this Spark an idea?

Iron Scrolls

For a different window treatment, curlicue scrolls made of iron present a durable outdoor solution. You can buy curlicue scrolls designed for many purposes, including decorating doors, windows, walls and other surfaces of buildings. The biggest consideration is how you will hang the iron curlicue on the home exterior above or below the windows using steel hardware or nails. These scrolls do not serve the same purpose as the iron window box, but they may become the favorite location of birds or vines near your home. Iron curlicues come in uniform patterns and abstract patterns. After you purchase one, you can change the color with metallic glaze.

Iron Window Boxes

Exterior iron window treatments can serve multiple purposes, including adding beauty to the home's exterior and providing a place to grow plants. Iron window boxes mount easily at the base of the exterior window. The homeowner can add effects such as planting soil to grow herbs, small fruits and vegetables, flowers and vines inside the window box. Choose an iron material with a carving or figurative pattern that will look graceful even after the rain and snow rusts the iron surface. Another option is to use iron to create a window box cage and then install a wood or plastic box inside the cage as a container for the flower garden.

Iron Window Borders and Grilles

Iron borders or faux window frames also reflect the Spanish Revival style popular in areas like California and the Pacific Northwest. The homeowner can buy wrought iron borders or add-on frames to existing windows to match other iron works around the home, including wrought iron gates, faux window balconies, fences, window boxes and mailboxes. Wrought iron frames and borders usually have a dark tone--dark brown or black. Just like iron scrolls, if the homeowner wants a different effect, metallic paint provides different color and texture options. An alternative to borders are iron grilles that project outward from the window like window boxes. These iron grilles may cover part of the window or the whole window just like barred windows in other architectural styles of the U.S., including Greek Revival or National style.

Tags: curlicue scrolls, Exterior iron window, exterior window, faux window, home exterior, iron grilles, iron window