Monthly Archives: June 2010

How to Paint Interior Rooms Like a Pro

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Paint like a professional with these interior painting tips from prep to clean up.

Prep work often is the most difficult part of a paint job, but it’s not that hard. First remove all furniture from the room or at least move it away from walls and cover with a drop cloth. You’ll also need to remove wall hangings, window coverings, outlet and switch plates, and if you’re painting doors and windows, remove the doorknobs and window latches. Using painters tape, cover outlets, switches, trim and other surfaces that will not be painted. It’s a good idea to tape plastic over windows and doors to protect them from paint splatter. Cover the floor with plastic or drop cloths and tape down to prevent it from slipping.

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Creative Commons License photo credit: massdistraction

Next wipe down the walls with a damp sponge or rag, removing any pencil, ink or food stains that might bleed through the new paint or cause it to streak. Use drywall compound to fill in any nail holes or other imperfections. Let it dry for several hours and then sand it to a smooth finish using fine sandpaper. Dust the walls off and vacuum up any dust.

If you are painting the ceiling, begin there. Always paint a room from ceiling to walls to trim, top to bottom. Use a brush to make a 2 inch wide border around all the edges of the ceiling or wall that you are painting. Then fill in the middle using a roller. There are roller extension poles to help you paint the ceiling without a ladder. Always remove excess paint from the roller pad after dipping it in the tray by rolling it around on the top part of the tray.

Always work from top to bottom, painting a 3-4 foot section at a time. Use vertical ‘V’ shaped strokes then spreading the paint evenly, without pressing down too hard. Blend areas together as you work your way across the wall or ceiling. If you are painting trim and baseboards, wait until the walls have dried, then tape off adjacent areas with masking tape. Use a brush and paint with the grain of the wood.

After removing tape and drop cloths, you will probably need to vacuum or sweep up debris. Allow the paint to cure for a day or so before putting furniture against walls or replacing wall hangings. To dispose of empty paint cans, leave the lid off and allow paint inside the can to dry completely, then throw away with your regular garbage. Keep partially used cans of interior paint for touch ups.

Choose Patio String Lights To Jazz Up Your Backyard

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If you’ve spent a lot of time and money making your patio look beautiful, it’s only natural to be looking for those finishing touches – maybe to set off plants and features, or to jazz up the area for a party. Patio string lights are a low-cost, maximum-effect way to achieve this. They can also perform many different functions. One of the most common is to define a specific area – perhaps a dance floor, or where food is served. Another is to create a specific ambiance, whether funky or more chilled out. On a practical level, they also create extra illumination for your patio area, something that’s particularly valuable as afternoon turns to dusk.

Outdoor lights
Creative Commons License photo credit: athrasher

Patio lights have been around for decades in one form or another, but there’s never been as much choice as there is today. The basic design principle is unaltered – a bare bulb, clear or colored, is encased in a surround. These can be made from various materials, including plastic, paper and glass. So which type should you go for? That all depends on the effect you want. If you want your patio lighting simple, elegant and understated, you can’t go far wrong with clear, white or opaque designs. The opaque white globe is a particularly classic design, representing a good investment as it will never date. Any variation on these colors will always look timeless, as long as you keep the design simple.  If you want your lights more colorful, you can find something in just about every shape and shade imaginable. Chinese lanterns are a popular option for a bright, ethnic look.

You can hang your patio string lights just about any way you wish, but if you take a little time to plan their location you’ll get the best out of them. We’ve already mentioned that these types of lights are useful for defining garden areas. Don’t limit this to walls or fences, though – bushes, shrubs and paths are also great areas to highlight. And for a fun touch, hang your lights from the inside of your patio umbrella, or even place them inside an oversize vase for a striking centerpiece.

CHOOSE THE CLASSIC LOOK OF TRAVERTINE TILES

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It is the greatest dream of very hardworking individual to finally purchase their dream house. After all the years of working and saving, you can finally reap the fruits of your labor once you set your eyes on that particular structure that you would like to call home. While the whole process might take long and be somewhat stressful, there’s one aspect about buying your dream house that is surely very fun to do and that is choosing the design and the materials. In this process, it is important to always choose a style that reflects your personality. The design can vary from traditional to modern and contemporary. If you’re the type of person that goes for a classic and elegant look, travertine tiles are the best choices.

Floor Tiles at the Domus Augustana
Creative Commons License photo credit: GaijinSeb

This material has a long history that dates back thousands of years from early Greek era and Roman Empire. This is one of the reasons why its name is synonymous to quality and durability. While it may seem common among European houses, it is currently gaining popularity across the globe. Try installing these tiles on your kitchen countertop and even on walls in order to present that European inspired architecture. With the demand for this item getting stronger, more and more contractors are offering installation and a wide selection of designs is available. When it comes to the house flooring, travertine mosaic tile can surely enhance the look of the entire house. Always remember that it is best to have all the materials well-coordinated in order to come up with a great design. Make sure to choose colors that will blend perfectly with the furniture and other appliance

The great thing about this house design is that you can be sure that it will never go out of style. The traditional and vintage look inspired by English architecture is something that is proven to appeal to homeowners anytime and anywhere.

Comfort From An Electric Mattress Pad

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These days, it is very common for people to find, especially later in life, that they are afflicted by back problems. This can result from any number of things – simple bad posture is usually one of the most common. We all know that people like to slouch and engage in other behaviour that isn’t very ergonomically correct. And as if this isn’t enough, there is also the other pervasive problem of these modern times – the fact that most of us are employed in professions where there is next to zero physical activity.

Indeed, most office workers these days generally end up sitting in a chair and staring at a computer screen for hours on end, for most of their career. This is clearly not the most ergonomic form of activity, even for those with good posture – and most of us do not have good posture. Understandably, it becomes very tempting to just slide down and slouch on your office chair – after all, what impact could it possibly have? Your back might hurt for a few minutes but it will go away quickly.

The problem with this reasoning, says the mattress pads guide, is that it tends to ignore much of the longer term impacts that arise from non ergonomic conditions. Over the course of days or weeks, you may not really notice all that much – but eventually, most people who spend their lives slouching in a chair will end up with long term back problems later in life. These may take years to arise, but they are the kind of issues that are best to just avoid entirely – for example, osteoporosis.

If you think that you may be suffering from this kind of problem, your best bet is to get all the ergonomic alternatives you can find. Most offices these days are pretty ergonomic, but don’t forget your mattress – if you can’t afford to invest in something as pricy as, say, memory foam, then at least get an electric mattress pad. Technology has made them cheaper, and there’s no reason your back should suffer.

Grow Your Own Vegetable Garden

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When you are thinking about how to grow your own vegetables, there are many factors and preparations to consider. You need to ask yourself a few questions. Where are you going to plant your new vegetable garden? How big should the garden be? Which vegetables or herbs would you like to grow?

Pick a location that is close to your house, but not so close as to be shaded by the house. Make sure there is plenty of fertile soil. Look for a location that has plenty of sunlight, not too close to shrubs or trees. Some vegetables do okay in partial locations, such as cabbage, turnips and other leafy vegetables. Vegetables that thrive in full sunlight include squash, tomatoes, corn, peppers and other “fruit”-bearing vegetable plants. You are going to need to research how often you may need to move your garden location or at least rotate the plant locations to avoid occurrence of plant diseases and soil depletion.

Now that you have chosen the location of your garden, you need to figure out how much room the vegetables will need. Many people choose to grow vegetables that their family enjoys and eats regularly. Steer clear of exotic vegetable plants until you have bcome more experienced. Hybrid vegetables are a good and healthy choice as they are better able to fight off disease and can withstand harsher weather.

Mid-summer Allotment
Creative Commons License photo credit: joimson

The best way to plan your garden design is to make a diagram—which can best be done on graph paper—of the layout of your garden.  You will want to make a note of the approximate date you want to plant each variety of vegetables. Place taller plants out of the way of smaller plants, so they do not cast a steady shade on them. You may want the taller plants slightly separated from the rest of the garden. Some people choose to grow their vegetables in pots in lieu of digging a garden. It is a matter of personal preference.

Choose a Nice Handle For Your Front Door!

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A front door handle sits proudly on the door and makes a statement to everyone. This door is the second opinion people form on the quality and style of the home furnishing that will greet them when they enter. The first opinion is formed at the curb upon viewing the sidewalk, landscaping and entrance. Exterior door handles are openly displayed and create an image that the best is yet to come. Your door will be opened with an ornate, decorative and useful accessory personally chosen for its beauty and efficiency. The front door hardware is as important to the image projected as the floor coverings and window treatments inside. Fortunately, the homeowner with vision and talent can find a beautiful ornament that projects exactly the right image.

The Key to Dyrham House
Creative Commons License photo credit: Mukumbura

They basically come in two styles, a lever which is a handle that pushes down and a knob that turns. The lever is easier for many people to use as it just requires a downward motion to open. People advancing in age, people with a broken hand or people who have limited motion in their hands all benefit from this type.   So do large dogs who learn to push down on these front door handles to escape to the great outdoors and some temporary independence! The same can be said for small children who delight in playing in the sunshine (on the next block) can operate this with ease.

Modern designs today include a full door plate, a partial plate as well as simply the levers and knobs that come in many unique shapes and finishes.  For many people the exciting part is picking out a finish that will enhance the entrance to their castle or palace, or however they look at it. These finishes come in a gorgeous satin nickel, bronzes of various finishes including an oil rubbed design, pewter, satin chrome, flat black, polished brass, antique brasses, rust, satin steel and stainless steel. A person can even find a sleek and stately chrome door handle that adds a sparkle to the door and a twinkle to the eye of the visitors. There is a design in a finish that will create exactly the welcoming atmosphere the homeowner is looking for. This finish can be carried on throughout the house or each area can feature its own interior door designs.

Investing in one of these quality front door handles makes a fashion statement that greets anyone who ventures into your abode.

Work in Comfort With Pine Computer Desks

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In today’s technology-driven times, a computer desk is considered an essential piece of furniture. This is because most of the work that we do has to be done on the computer. For your own comfort and, most importantly, for your health, you should have a good computer desk that meets certain criteria. To be able to find the best computer desk for you, you should do some research on the different types of desks that are available on the market before you purchase one.

40+235 Beverage
Creative Commons License photo credit: bark

The Various Types Of Desks Available

Computer desks are made of different kinds of material, the most common one being wood. This is because wood is easily available and very durable. Computer desks made out of pine wood are a great choice, as pine computer desks are sturdy, durable, and can hold a lot of weight. Pine computer desks are also noted for their easy assembly, and they are very low maintenance.

Things You Need To Do Before Choosing A Pine Computer Desk

Computer desks, like any other piece of furniture, are available in various materials, each of which has its own characteristics. Before choosing a computer desk, you should first determine what your needs and requirements are.

What Will You Use Your Pine Computer Desk For?

Obviously, you need a place to put your computer. However, that isn’t the end of it. You should determine exactly how much your computer weights, along with its accessories such as a printer, scanner, and keyboard. You should also determine what functions you need your pine computer desk to perform. Do you need a place to store your DVDs and CDS? Do you need to have the ports on the back of your CPU easily accessible at all times? Once you know the answers to these questions, you should be able to plan how to place your computer and other items on the desk.

A computer desk should also allow you to work comfortably. You should be able to work with good posture when using the computer. You should also consider the slant and the height of the chair and the desk that you will be using. In addition, you should also determine whether you plan on placing extra hardware or computer accessories on your desk.

Once you’re able to successfully determine what you need from your computer desk, you can now start searching for one that is right for you. You can find a wide variety of both ready-made and custom-made desks online. Some websites also offer discounts and free shipping. So be on the lookout for great deals.

Decorate With a Farmhouse Table for a Country Feel

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For anyone wanting to decorate their home with country furnishings, there is quite a selection of country decor available. The right type of furniture can give a home a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that will invite all guests to feel relaxed and content upon entering the premises. And for the family members, nothing beats that down home feeling that comfortable, casual furniture will create.

A farmhouse table is one item of furniture that can lend a homey feel to nearly every dwelling. It will most likely have matching chairs, which may consist of just wood or be decorated with fabric cushions on the seats and/or backs. For country style flair, a farmhouse kitchen table may be oak, pine or some other type of wood finish. It can be modeled on a very simple design or be fabricated using a more elaborate style. A plain farmhouse setting can still be very attractive in the room. It does not need to be fancy to create a comfortable, country feeling. In fact, sometimes the more basic, the better.

2008 Minnesota Trip: Duluth
Creative Commons License photo credit: jbrownell

For those who like to take on do-it-yourself projects, an unfinished furniture piece can be purchased and then either painted or stained and topped with a durable poly finish. The item can be made to look exactly as desired, rather than searching to purchase something that has already been finished by the manufacturing company.

A trestle design looks very appropriate in a country home. The item can even have a drawer or two for storage. Kitchen furnishings in the country style may also consist of benches in the place of chairs for a really countrified, boarding house look. And tables with a removable leaf are available so that the size may be changed to accommodate varying numbers of people.

A country atmosphere is relaxed, laid back and simple. Back to basics is the theme of the day, and the right farmhouse kitchen table and chairs can complete the country look wonderfully.

The Different Types Of Bedding Options

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Choosing the proper type of bedding has a lot to do with what type of bed someone owns. With there being many different styles there needs to be different types of bedding to choose from. There also are different styles and designs that people like and enjoy. This plays a big role in the type of bedding that consumer’s purchase. Understanding what a divan bed, French bed, and princess bed are can help to explain what type of bed decor would go with each of them.

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Creative Commons License photo credit: lairdscott

A divan bed is essentially another term for a day bed. These are designed to be used as pieces of sitting furniture during the day and then sleeping beds at night. For this reason it is beneficial to purchase bedding that will blend well for both uses.  It’s important to not purchase something that is extreme or flashy and to instead buy some bed décor that will blend well with the other items in the room the bed is located.

The true definition of a French bed is one that falls in between the size of a twin and a double. It can be difficult to buy sheets, comforters, and mattresses for them because they are not a standard size. For this reason it will be necessary to shop at locations that offer accessories for beds of this type. Since they are traditionally French in nature, it may be helpful to buy from a French vendor.

A princess bed is designed specifically for little girls that are in love with princesses. The colors will often times be purple and pink and they should provide a complete princess experience for the little girl. These are some of the most popular comforter and sheet sets that can be purchased, and it’s easy to understand why.

It’s important before buying any type of bedding to know what type of bed these items need to be purchased for. This quickly narrows down the sizes and options to a specific set, and then the design and style differences can be chosen from there.

Designing Your Outdoor Kitchen

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Outdoor patio kitchens are a fashionable improvement for your yard or garden. Essentially you can have a kitchen area fitted outdoors for cooking and bbqs, or else you could go all out and get an outdoor kitchen having every single advanced appliance which you might expect within an inside kitchen and much more. Furthermore, you could have the additional benefits of cooking food and dining alfresco. With a proper degree of organizing your own kitchen can add a lot to your leisure time.

An area of central importance will be your choice of outdoor kitchen appliances. Although there are other types of food preparation you can do in the open air, the grill is what many people think of when visualizing a dinner party or barbecue. Your primary selection is going to be between a propane gas grill and a charcoal grill. Propane gas grills possess the convenience and also usability point, although charcoal grills can be a more authentic open-air lifestyle alternative. It is strictly a matter of your own preference and there are actually advantages and downsides for both alternatives.

If you’re thinking about building your own kitchen yourself as opposed to getting a designer and installer who makes a specialty of custom open-air kitchens, then you should probably check out distributors of modular outdoor kitchens. By making use of these units you might start out small, and improve with the addition of further accessories and modules later on. It has been proven that putting in this type of cooking area contributes considerably to the value of your property. This might be because of the perceived lifestyle benefits of outdoor entertaining.

Oaxaca: Cooking at Senora Soledad's
Creative Commons License photo credit: xoxoryan

Outdoor kitchen cabinets can be as basic and simple, or as extensive and lavish as you will need. If you are planning on having a complete made to order kitchen built in your backyard then picking the correct cabinet units will probably be a key factor in not only how your kitchen looks but additionally in how easy and productive it is to cook on. Metal is a preferred choice for outside storage and most cabinets are available with this surface. This kind of storage unit is simple to keep clean and looking great, and it also stands up to the outside setting very well.

A more uncommon option that you could include in your cooking strategies is an outdoor pizza stove. These could be a rustic looking, brick constructed, wood burning stove with chimney that will add an old-world appeal to the outdoor kitchen. Then again, there’s also contemporary outdoor pizza ovens, which are also wood burning, but they are constructed from contemporary weather resistant materials and are fitted with wheels to enable them to be easily pushed away into storage when not being used. Or if you would like to achieve the rustic appearance of an outdoor pizza oven but like your modern grill to cook on, why not consider a Chimnea? They are an outdoor wood burning stove, usually made of either cast iron or clay with a chimney and are a wonderful addition to any backyard kitchen or dining area.