42lounge.com
09 Dec 2021
How to paint a metal kitchen
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , , , ,

How to Restore Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Wondering how to restore metal kitchen cabinets for a fresh start? These types of accessories normally add aesthetic value to any kitchen. Apart from this, they have aspects of durability as well.

The best thing about such kinds of cabinets is that they can be dismantled with great ease and mounted at the same time. They also have a way for them to be restored without interfering with the designs.

Metal cabinets are a preference for those who love to change and update their cabinets regularly.

Therefore, restoring these cabinets will give them a new lease of life and a fresh new look to your kitchen. Moreover, it is a very simple process that can bring about the desired effects if handled in the right way.

The downside of these cabinets is that if left unattended to can be very prone to rust. Hence, they should be kept clean and tidy, devoid of any negligence at all costs.

Restoration of metal cabinets is the only way to make them last longer and durable. However, it can be a very tedious process, which requires meticulous planning and execution.

What Tools Will I Need to Strip Paint from Metal Kitchen Cabinets?

  • A paint stripping tool (or)
  • Some good quality brushes
  • Cleaning thinners
  • A good quality metal paint prime
  • A good quality finishing paint
  • Metal paint spay laquer

Other Useful Items you May Want to Purchase

  • A heat gun for removing exiting paint
  • A paint spray gun

In the long run, it will save you considerable amounts of money and time, which could have become unattainable if left unattended for longer periods.

Take your time and do a very good job. Do not rush the process so as not to end up with shoddy work, which might end up being expensive as you might be forced to redo the work once again.

How to Restore Metal Kitchen Cabinets

How to strip paint from metal kitchen cabinets

Step 1: How to Strip Paint Off Metal Kitchen Cabinets

The initial stage would be stripping off any paint from the metal cabinets. If you want to embark on this process, there are several ways to about this whole process. For you not to have a very hard time, then elements for stripping paint will work just fine for you.

However, it can sometimes go against what you want to achieve as you will not be able to amicably work out a method to remove the paint.

Paint removers have an annoying tendency of evaporating

The main reason for this is that these paint removers have an annoying tendency of evaporating just before the job is done.

One way of going about such problems is to put the cabinet inside a plastic bag immediately after you apply the stripper.

Afterward, when removing the said cabinet from the plastic paper, then it will be easy to remove the paint. You can use a wire brush to remove the paint.

However, if you want the best outcome, then a steel wire is most ideal for completely removing the layer of paint.

It is prudent for you to put everything to be used in this task on standby. This is to make sure that you do not miss a thing and start running up and down once the job commences.

Ensure that you have the following essentials in place. Sealant, both coarse and fine sandpaper, coating paint, one brush accompanied by a sizeable roller, masking tape, and last but not least, a TSP cleaner if any.

Stage 2: How to Prime your Metal Kitchen Cabinets

This stage involves coating your prepared cabinet in a good quality primer, which might work wonders when it comes to paint removal on metal kitchen cabinets.

Since metal is very vulnerable to rust and subsequent corrosion, and for you to prevent this from happening, then as a sealant, primer works by sealing all the loopholes on the metal cabinets, which might result in rusting.

It will hinder moisture from accumulating into deadly elements of destruction on the metal cabinets. Moreover, suppose you are looking to change the color of your cabinets, primer can work wonders by promoting the preservation of colors.

In case you are using primer on metal cabinets, one of the easiest ways to go about it is by using a primer in a sprayer.

Spray Tool Metal Cabinets

Furthermore, it is cheap, easy to apply, and ideal for those who do not want to go through the cumbersome processes of using brushes for paint removal.

Therefore, when applying primer, ensure that you begin with a thin layer several instead of applying a very thick layer just once. This ensures maximum optimization and outcome in preventing the paint from dripping into unwanted areas on the cabinet.

Use the sprayer on the cabinet by applying a thin layer before letting it settle down for a considerable amount of time before you do anything to your cabinet.

If you have extra time on your hands, then you could let it dry for one day. However, about an hour is just but enough for the sealant to dry well.

Now that the first coat has dried up well, it is now time to apply the second coat on the metal cabinet.

After you have ascertained that the second coat has also dried up, apply another coat. This can be done as many times as possible but just a few is enough for the job.

Immediately after you have applied the last coat, leave it to dry a while longer than before. Before proceeding to the next stage.

Step 3: How to Paint your Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Stage number three is the actual painting itself. And the best way to go about this crucial step is to use spray paint. Therefore, if you want to do a good job, then it is advisable to spray the paint at intervals of thin layers.

Care should be taken to ensure that it does not drip down. After that, leave it out to dry for about one hour or so, depending on how the job has been done.

Do this consecutively for the next coatings sessions as well.

Those paints, which do not have very deep colors will need more coating, whereas, those with very deep colors will only need fewer coating.

After you are done with the job, it is now time to leave your cabinets out to dry completely. It could be overnight or just a day.

After everything has dried out completely and you have ensured that the paint job has been remarkably done, you can take the cabinets back to their original positions.

If you are unsure of the type of paint to use on your cabinets, then it would very prudent that you ask the store attendants.

They will advise you accordingly on what to purchase. Remember that when painting your kitchen cabinets, instead of a painting brush, you can go ahead and use rollers.

Matt Finish Painted Metal Kitchen

They leave a very smooth and even finishing on the cabinets.

Before you even start painting, there are a few essential steps that you must not miss. The first one is cleaning the cabinets until they are sparkling clean.

This will remove any impurities that might hinder the paint to stick well on the surface of the cabinets.

Ensure that all the impurities and dirt have been removed. For the stubborn ones, use removers like (tsp) trisodium phosphate, it works wonders.

A clean surface will make your work very easy and will be devoid of any struggles and difficulties that might hinder you from working properly on your project.

After the cleaning, leave the cabinets to dry for some time before you again wipe off any of the paint that might have loosened out. You can either use a dry piece of cloth or a soft-bristled brush for this segment.

Do not attempt to sand the areas, which have loose paint, even if you suspect it to be having lead.

Gentle cleaning of paint that has loosened out will prevent lead dust from developing, which could be dangerous on your health.

However, before even cleaning and painting your metal cabinets, you should inspect them thoroughly to ascertain how the work will be done and the extent of damages like rust and corrosion if any.

Apart from knowing how the work is going to be undertaken, it will also give you a very clear picture of the types of accessories to have for the job at hand.

After the inspection has been done, and you have taken note of the things to have for the task ahead, you can then go ahead to remove the doors and all the accompanying hardware.

However, since many of the metal cabinets have different designs, some have permanent handles that cannot come out. For such kind of handles, the best thing to do is to paint them with the same paint color that was used on the cabinet doors.

When removing the doors and any removable hardware, ensure that you have protective clothing on you. It will save you from any hazardous materials that might fall off from the cabinets or any other place nearby.

The process of restoring your kitchen cabinets is a very delicate one that requires meticulous planning and must be done with utmost precision if you want a perfect job.

Conclusion:

Preparation is the key here and as experts usually say.  Spent 80% of your time on preparation and 20% of your time on the task.

That way you will ensure that this is a job that will stand the test of time and have the appearance of a professional finish.  After all, this isn’t a task you want to be repeating any time soon.  So do it one and do it well.

Sources & Links: Matt Spray Gun Hire | How to Prepare Surfaces for Metal Paint | Best Paint Brushes for Metal Paint

 

28 Jul 2021
how to cover glass doors for privacy
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , ,

How to Cover Glass Doors for Privacy: 4 Great Ideas 

Glass doors give additional beauty to your home, and they’re particularly helpful on sunny days. But once in a while, a touch of privacy is crucial. Perhaps you’re contemplating how to cover glass doors for privacy. Here are the 4 great methods you’ll come across: putting window film, frosting your glass, installing curtains, and applying shutters.

How to Cover Glass Doors for Privacy

how to cover glass doors for privacy  

How to Cover Glass Doors for Privacy 

Most of the basic techniques are affordable and give you a lot of flexibility. 

Method 1: Frosting the Glass 

  1. Clean the glass door with vinegar and water. Then, pour 1 part vinegar and 4 parts water into a spray bottle. Thereafter, spray your glass windows with that solution. Wipe your glass door in circular motions by applying a clean cloth. Repeat the wiping with vertical strokes trailed by horizontal strokes. 
  2. Cover your glass doors utilizing blue painter’s tape. Begin by applying vertical and horizontal pieces alongside the exterior edge of the glass so that you can cover the door’s frame. Keep laying the tape onto the door until every wooden part is covered enough. 
  • If you don’t have sufficient experience with spray paint, use tape to cover the biggest part of the door as possible;
  • You can likewise cover the door by applying plastic sheeting and append it using painter’s tape.
  1. Use spray paint to apply on the frosted glass, but shake the can well before utilizing. Begin from the upper part of every glass pane to make short horizontal sprays. Exchange left to right with the right to left spraying. Consistently move the spray can downwards while you spray. 
  • Hold a cardboard piece next to the day and cover any open area that’s not covered by tape. 
  1. For the window to dry, leave it to sit for 10 minutes. This will permit the frosting to produce results. A while later, check the obscurity of the frosting layer. If it doesn’t meet your requirements, apply another coat. More coats make the door glass to become more opaque, and the bigger the privacy. 
  • Don’t, however, apply another layer immediately since frosting takes some time to produce results. 

Method 2: Applying Window Film 

  1. Start by dry-fitting the window film to the door glass and cut it to measure. Wet the glass that you intend to cover with between 4 to 5 water sprays. Mount the film horizontally or vertically onto the glass — whichever heading makes the most productive utilization of the film. The water holds the film set up. Now trim it to around 1 inch (2.5 cm) bigger than the size of glass utilizing a utility knife.  
  • Measure every door before buying your window film. Ordinarily, films are 91 or 122 cm (36 or 48 inches) wide. You should pick the most appropriate size. 
  1. Now, stick the film to a close window using water. Apply some more 4 to 5 water sprays to the nearest window. While you stick the film onto the window, delicately pat it down using hands. Ensure that the release liner faces you. 
  • Rub both sides of the window film at once to get the adhesive side. But ensure you don’t crease the film. There’s a slippery side when rubbed upon it while the other one doesn’t have an easy slip. The release liner is the slippery side. 
  1. With baby shampoo and water, fill a spraying bottle. Put water into a 0.95 L (1⁄4 gallon) spray bottle until it gets ¾ full. Put 4.9 ml (1 teaspoon) of baby shampoo. While plain water makes the film stick rapidly, water with too much soap completely prevents it from sticking. 
  • Screw the top back on and tenderly flip the bottle upside down and repeat this step to mix the soap. 
  1. Use a window squeegee and scraper to clean glass. Wet the whole glass surface using the cleaning solution and apply the sponge to wipe it down. A while later, firmly press the squeegee against the glass and then drag it horizontally over the surface starting at the top and do so toward the base. Toward the finish of every squeegee pass, use a microfiber towel or lint-free towel to wipe the blade. 
  • With a clean cloth, wipe the window frame after you’re finished squeegeeing gently. 
  1. Put a tape piece on every side of the film’s upper left corner. You wet the tape piece nearest to the window. Press it until it firmly holds on the window. Ensure that the next tape closest piece nearest to you is free and grasp it using your right hand. 
  2. Gently, pull the liner from the film as you spray it using water. Hold a spraying bottle that’s filled with water using your left hand. Start pulling the next bit of tape downwards to get rid of the film liner. Do this gradually to guarantee that you don’t destroy the bits of the film when separating them. Remove the liner as you spray the film. 
  • Keep on pulling the release liner and as you go, spray the film; 
  • Ensure the tape adhered to the window is firm before you start pulling the next bit of tape;

plants in front of a glass doors and windows

  1. Thoroughly spray the film using soap solution after removing the liner. After discharging the liner, spray the whole film surface once more with your soap solution. A short time later, spray the middle part of the clean glass that you’re covering. Avoid spraying the edges as this will remove the remaining dirt from the crevices. 
  2. Carefully, apply the film on the glass above the soap solution. Then allow the water to hold it in position. Begin by appending it at the upper corners of your glass door and operate downwards. 
  3. Outwards squeegee the water to the glass edges. Begin from the middle and operate outward. Press the squeegee over the glass door as opposed to pulling. This will get more water out and guarantee a superior bond.
  • Don’t go right to the edge but leave around 2.5 cm (1 inch) from the edge. 
  1. Use a 5-way device and a breakaway knife to trim the film. Cautiously slide the 5-way device up into the side of the glass, squeezing the film down up towards the casing. On the tool’s glass side, lay the knife upon the 5-way apparatus. Downwards, slide the blade until it reaches the 5-way tool midpoint. Slide both devices down the window’s frame and trim the film at the frame’s side. 
  • Press down against the casing while you cut the film; 
  • Repeat the procedure for both sides of your window.

Method 3: Installing Curtains 

  1. Take the measurements of your doors and note the area. Horizontally, measure at three various spots across the glass doors. Then create a rough sketch and mark the biggest horizontal measurement. 
  • Get a photograph of the glass doors to utilize alongside your sketch during shopping; 
  1. Buy curtains & magnetic curtain rods — Normally, 210 cm (84 inches) curtains sit at the floor or above it. In matters of width, choose curtains that are more than double the glass width. Adjustable magnetic curtain rods range from 43 to 76 cm (17 to 30 inches) wide. Utilize rods that stretch out 1.3 to 2.5 cm (1⁄2 to 1 inch) past both sides of the glass. 
  • Account for the type of curtain when deciding on rod placement and curtain height. The ordinary types are rings, tabs, hooks, pockets, and grommets. 
  1. Measure and mark locations of the bracket on the doors. Utilize a pencil and a measuring tape to mark the spots of your curtain brackets. Put the rods approximately 1.3 cm (1⁄2 inch) outside the door’s glass area. Hold the brackets and rod in place and choose if the position lines up with your vision.  
  • A friend can assist in placing the carpenter’s level above your rod to ensure it is even. If you are alone, steadily hold the rod using one hand and put the carpenter’s level above with the other hand. 
  1. Append magnetic curtain rods on your doors, and then fix the curtains. Find the self-stic magnetic tabs that accompany every bracket. Get rid of the paper covering the adhesive segments of the tabs and solidly press them onto the bracket spots that you measured. Then, slide the rod via your curtain and append it on the rod. 
  • Change the rod’s width as needed if it’s an adjustable one; 

a man standing next to a glass door

Method 4: Applying Shutters 

If you need something perpetual, shutters are an ideal alternative. When introduced appropriately, they can increase the value of the home. They offer an elegant, polished, and timeless look. Besides, they will give you privacy when it comes to glass doors. You may also think about the following aspects when it comes to choosing shutters: 

  • The type of material to use – Depending on the budget, shutters may range from hardwood, polysatin, or PVC shutters to a hybrid/combination of materials. The options of the materials that you choose rely upon who you work with. 
  • Midrail – While it’s a good choice, it’s not a must for your door. A midrail is the flat board that lay on the middle part of the shutter panel. This board permits you to open the upper and lower shutter parcels independently. It likewise strengthens the shutter and shields it from twisting. 
  • Tilt bar – This is the vertical part that works the opening and shutting of the shades. You can decide to have them midway on the board, covered up (at an additional expense) or offset;
  • Opening & closing of the shutters – You can install track shutters with different opening options. This permits them to slide open, and they can get shut through a bi-fold or by utilizing a bi-pass track system. By-pass doors slide against each other to the behind or front while bi-fold shutters overlap back the same as a closet door. 

You can now utilize the above tips on how to cover glass doors for privacy to ensure you enjoy the privacy of your home or office. 

Learn how to hide unused doors beautifully here with our guide!

26 Jul 2021
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , ,

A Guide on How to Paint Two Rooms with a Common Wall

Wall painting is a significant factor in determining the elegant appearance of any house. The strain accompanying the choice of color to choose, to ensure Two Rooms with a Common Wall blend is something every house owner scratches is head over. But How to Paint Two Rooms with a Common Wall isn’t a walk in the park.

How to Paint Two Rooms with a Common Wall

The beauty of any interior design lies in the harmonious use of colors. Two Adjoining Rooms having a Common wall often pose a challenge when it comes to choosing the transition of color to apply and the best color choice to make.

 The good thing is that after creating a good color flow that brings your rooms together in a unified way, you not improve the beauty of your home but also have yourself to praise for the pleasing flow of colors.

Furthermore, achieving your desired painting match doesn’t require you to possess painting skills. You only need to have the ability to pay attention to detail and be competent in making valid color choices.

You are wondering where to start or what color to opt for in painting these rooms without making them look like disjoint and appealing. We have you sorted. This guide helps you choose the best color to help you create harmony in your home and help make it look like a palace yet again. 

Know What You Want

Painting is an art that requires the imagination of something that isn’t already in place, having the urge to convert that imagination into a reality, then set the right path to actualizing the vision. You don’t just wake up one morning and decide to build a house if you haven’t planned for it. 

Don’t just wake up and start painting. You begin with exploring the choices you have, what budget and final result do you wish to achieve at the end of the painting. To obtain a smooth transition in situations where Two Rooms share a Common Wall, start by knowing the kind of effect that moves you. This helps to ensure you meet your painting goals. 

If you are not sure the color to choose, you can explore design and decorating websites, interior design books, magazines, and online pages for brilliant ideas that have worked for others. Look for particular colors that have been used and more exceptional results achieved.

You can always choose one particular shouting color to works as a background color and give each of the Two Rooms a unique appearance. View the two walls as a single entity with the ability to tarnish the whole image of your house to build the appearance altogether. 

Another alternative is seeking the work of painting and design experts, ask them questions about paint color using your home as the point of reference to gain detailed information. You can visit local painting stores with ideas of the interiors you like. From the store, you can pick sample colors and try them on the walls back at home. Using the samples, paint a small part of the wall and check the result to see if it works.

Finally, there are online websites that offer interactive color visualizer, particularly for people with the dilemma of how to paint Two Adjoin Common Walls. Using these online tools, you can preview the final results by mixing a set of colors and deciding on what works for you.

Decide on Your Color Scheme

After choosing among the option a solution that you deem fit, it’s now time to select a color scheme that serves your interest. There are three color schemes you can choose from.  A carefully selected color scheme will not only help in the flow of adjacent space, but it helps blend the two rooms.

There are three color schemes: Monochromic, analogous, and the complementary color. Each of the color schemes can independently or jointly meet your color needs.

Monochromic color creates a sophisticated but elegant appearance in your house. Going for a Neutral color in the gray or brown family might be the right choice. Applying shades to help vary the looks of your rooms can help you achieve a consistent style. To improve the results even further, try adding a unique feel of the furniture, floor, and texture to create great visual beauty.

Analogous colors offer more nuance as they retain the elegance of the monochromic scheme. The objective is to have one dominant color that helps enrich the effect. For a small painting, a maximum of three colors is an ideal choice. A right color choice comprises of colors with similar strength like going for greens with blues.

Complementary colors add interest and energy to the room by enhancing the temperature of the room. The colors used in the Two walls should contrast and not clash with one another. Choose a dominant complementary color and use it for its accents to help create impact and excitement in the room.

Choose Your Palette

The home palette should have a maximum of five colors. You can paint samples on the wall or attach tapes to the wall and paint. Check to see how the paintings look when there is light and how they look in the dark.  Decide on the background hue that works across all the walls. You can use any furniture’s in the room to gauge how the color appears. Ensure to always use lighter colors in the background since they allow a supreme blend with a dark color on top. 

When choosing your palette, keep considering the permanent things that you do not change in the house, such as an old fireplace. Adjust your color choice to match these features to avoid losing the existing room feature.  Consider how the color you choose appears in the dark, light through the day or the night, to reduce instances of loving your wall during the day and hating it during the night.

Choosing a palette that blends with furniture and other house decoration also makes the house elegant yet straightforward. A perfectly blending palette arises from the creative imagination of the house owner, and the result is worth awarding a Nobel prize.

Create a Matching Color Flow

Having a smooth transition of two closely related colors forms a site to behold. In cases where your rooms flow into each other, without partitions or doors, having one dominant color as the background color adds more tests on the wall. You can then choose a shade of one or two dark colors to add to the dominant background color.

Correctly Painting the two rooms with the same background color and adding a shade of the same color forms a connection between the rooms.  If the background color used is vibrant enough, the walls blend to form a single loop that is hard to distinguish, given the complexity of achieving such results. 

Always remember to paint a lighter color on the wall that receives more light to improve the sense of being in an open place. When working with a complementary and analogous color scheme, the colors used must all be bright colors to avoid color clashing. 

Effective use of rugs in the rooms also help streamline and improve the uniqueness of the paint. You can connect rooms using area rugs with similar colors or mix them for a better aesthetic value. 

The Actual Painting

The process is not complete until the final plan puts into action. Here consider the various proportions and ratios to use in case some colors have to be mixed. The thickness of the paint should also be considered to meet the actual objective. Time lag period required between the time a background paint is applied and the time a secondary paint is to be used should be put into consideration. 

The following procedure should be followed to achieve successful painting;

Set up your painting materials by protecting the floors and furniture, applying tape at the edges of the wall, carefully mixing your primer and paint, and ensuring you have a smooth wall to paint.

Then prime your wall by pouring enough primer into the tray to avoid Over spillage, line your outer edges of your walls with primer and try to make the lines as straight as possible, and allow the primer to dry in one day.

After allowing the primer to dry, it’s now time to paint the wall. Pour your paint into the tray and begin lining the edges of the wall. Apply the paint in up and down motion until the whole wall is done. Allow the paint to dry for one day.

Congratulations, you have successfully painted the Two Walls. The Two Walls can be joining from the Kitchen to the Dining room or sitting room. It is, therefore, necessary to ensure that the paintings on the walls do not reduce the quality of the house. Besides, this is a simple method and works for anybody. Try it today to achieve guaranteed results that help improve the quality of your walls while adding more beauty to your décor.

20 Jul 2021
How to Get Crayon Out of Carpet
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Maintenance , ,

How to Get Crayon out of Carpet Without Ruining It

There are some parts or places that may not be written or marked with ordinary markers. For this reason, it requires you to find a special tool to use. One of the most common sticks used to mark wet, oily, slick or dry surfaces is a crayon. It is usually made of colored wax, charcoal or chalk. 

How to Get Crayon Out of Carpet

However, getting the crayon out of a carpet becomes daunting at times. You may end up ruining your carpet while trying to get the crayon out of your carpet. However, there are some techniques that can be used to get the crayon out of your carpet without ruining it. In this article, we shall analyze some if not all of the methods you can use to get the crayon out of your carpet without ruining it. Continue reading this article to find out more about.

Before we start it is good to know there are two types of crayon stains namely the dry crayon and the melted crayon. Let us start with how to get the dry one. There are two approaches to this method. Here is the first one.

Method 1

  • Use a Dull Knife

As soon as you discover that there is a crayon stain on your carpet, you can use a knife to see if you are able to remove the excess wax out of the carpet. Note that the knife must be dull. This is because when you use a sharp knife, you might end up cutting the carpet hence destroying it completely.

  • Use of an Ice Cube

After removing the excess wax using a dull knife, look for an ice cube and place it in a plastic bag. After that place the plastic bag on the area that has the crayon stain on your carpet. The reason of placing the ice cube is to freeze any remains of wax residue.

  • Covering the Affected Area

After you are through with freezing the area, you must then find a clean dry cloth to cover the stained area. It is best if you use a white cloth to cover the stained area.

  • Ironing

The next step is to use the tip of a warm iron and gently press it on the cloth you used to cover the stained area. This step allows the colored wax to move to the cloth from the carpet.

The above is just but one method or removing crayon from carpet without ruining it. If the above technique does not work for you, or if you have a melted crayon on your carpet, then you should go for this next method.

Method 2

  • Spotting the Stain and Scrapping Off

Immediately after you discover that your carpet has a crayon stain, you should quickly try and scrape off the residues of the crayon stains from the surface. This prevents the crayon stain from spreading further to the whole surface of the carpet.

  • Use of a Carpet Cleaner

After removing or scraping the excess residues on the carpet surface, you should look for a good carpet cleaner and pour it on the stained surface. You should only pour a small amount of the carpet cleaner to the stained area. After adding the carpet cleaner to the affected area, you should use a clean towel or absorbent pad to blot the area.

  • Repeating

The above steps should be repeated continuously until there are no more stains of crayons on the carpet. Do not get tired of repeating the procedures above incase the stains are not removed completely.

  • Drying

After you have repeated the above procedure and you are sure there are no crayon stains on the carpet, you should leave the crayon stain to dry. After drying, there will be no more crayon stains on your carpet. Also, your carpet will not be ruined.

The above methods are used for removing crayon stains that are not melted from your carpet. However, there are some crayon stains that are melted. This will require a different procedure and technique not like the one above. Below is a guide on how to get crayon out of a carpet without ruining it.

How to Get Melted Crayon Out of Carpet Without Ruining it

Melted crayon can be so hard to deal with. It is not easy to get it out of the carpet without causing damage to the carpet. However, there is a procedure that you can follow to remove the melted crayon on your carpet. Let’s take a look at it.

  • Prepare Solutions

The ingredients for the preparation of the solution are soap and warm water. The first step is to mix several drops of dish soap with a cup of water. You should make sure that they mix perfectly. It is good to use liquid soap. The water should be warm and not hot.

  • Covering the Stained Area

The stained area should be well covered with a piece of cloth. The cloth should be placed directly on the stained part of your carpet. To be precise, you should use a white piece of cloth.

  • Testing the Solution

We are not sure if the solution will work best to remove the crayon stain from the carpet. For this reason, a test must be conducted. The solution should, therefore, be tested on a small area on the carpet. The reason for testing is to make sure that the solution will not cause more discoloration on the carpet.

  • Soaking

After testing the solution and you are sure of it, it is now time to put it in full use. Pour the solution on the cloth that is covering the stained area. The soapy water should be able to soak in the crayon stain. Leave it for like five minutes to soak well. Do not be in a hurry to remove the cloth immediately after soaking it as it may have not worked the way it is supposed to be.

  • Drying the Surface

After the five minutes are over, you are required to blot the area. This process should be done by the use of a white clean piece of cloth. In order to avoid damaging the carpet fibers, you should be careful so that you do not to rub the surface that contains the stain.

  • Rinsing

The spot should then be rinsed using cold water. The reason for rinsing the surface with cold water is to make sure that there is no excess cleaning solutions on the carpet. Therefore, rinsing removes the excess cleaning solution for the carpet.

  • Soaking up Extra Moisture

After rinsing with cold water, there might be extra moisture at the spot. The moisture is supposed to be removed using a white paper towel. The white paper soaks up extra moisture at the place. Also, using a non-staining glass or a ceramic object, weigh down the white paper towel. The object should not be capable of causing further stains or damage to the carpet. After weighing them, leave them to sit for some time, probably one night.

  • Vacuuming the Area

After drying the carpet overnight using the white paper towel, you are then supposed to vacuum the area. The reason why we choose to vacuum the area after drying it is to restore the texture of the carpet.

  • Results

After completing the above steps, it is now time to find out whether our method worked or not. In case you followed all the above steps keenly and deed a perfect job, then there should be no more crayon stains on your carpet. If you find out that there are some stains that are still on the carpet, you should try and repeat the above steps. This time around you should keenly follow the steps correctly. If there are still crayon stains even after repeating the steps several times, then you should seek help from a professional cleaner.

How to Get Crayon Out of Carpet?

In conclusion, the above methods will help you when you’re wondering how to get crayon out of carpet without ruining it. The methods are safe and very easy to use. This is because the things and solutions used are easily accessible and cheaper to obtain. Also, the methods are environment-friendly hence you will not cause any kind of pollution to the environment. The methods can be conducted by yourself or you may choose to hire someone to do it for you in case you are unable to do it by yourself. 

However, in the case where the crayon stain seems to be permanent, or if you feel you cannot remove the stain from your carpet safely, you should go for a professional cleaner. The professional cleaners are skilled in stain removal and may help you get the crayon stain out of your carpet without ruining it. However, this will come at a cost. You should be prepared to incur some costs depending on the type of stain, the extent of the stain on your carpet, the value of your carpet, the size of your carpet or the type of cleaning professional you choose. However, before going for the professional, you should try it yourself because practice makes perfect.

19 Jul 2021
2 story foyer decorating ideas
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , ,

15 Stunning 2 Story Foyer Decorating Ideas

You need to decorate your house entrance so that it can give a welcoming, warm feeling to anyone who comes in.. Here are 15 Stunning 2 Story Foyer Decorating Ideas.

Staircase with Window-Seat

This refers to a stunning way of decorating your 2-story foyer. A widow by the stairs will bring in more light in your stairway. Additionally, the staircase window seat will create a space for you to view the outside, enjoy the morning sun and rest while you need it. The window seat makes your house look modern and unique since most homes have no staircase window seat.

 The window seat gives more ventilation to the entire house and helps you save power since you do not have to keep the lights on during the day. Have you ever noted that most staircase has no windows? And are you always dark if the lights are off? Consider decorating your o two-story staircase with a window seat.

Stairway Lights

It is so dull and scary, having a dark stairway. However, it is so stunning having a brightly lit stair-way for your two-story. Consider installing different bulb designs to lighten up and decorate your staircase. However, use bright paint on your walls. It will brighten the stairs during the day.

Oak is among the best wood to use on your stairs since it can be crafted in different designs and last long. Use the latest designed large chandelier that can spread light in the whole stairway. Make sure that the paint on the wall rhyme with the window curtains to maintain the theme color of the entire house. The stairway lights should remain on the whole night until there is enough light from outside to make sure it is safe.  A Large Chandelier will create a focal point in your room, especially in the most open space.

Wall Hangings

Make sure you buy wall hangings that have the theme color of your house. The color should match or be similar to most of the furniture, curtains, or the floor. Wallpapers replace wall hangings. The wallpapers come in different designs and colors, so; you have to choose what is in rhyme with your theme color. Wallpapers are cheap and easily installed. You can also replace the wallpaper when they are old, or you need a different color and design.

Plants and Flowers for 2 Story Foyer Decorating Ideas

Plants and flowers create a cozy feeling making the room feel live. However, if the flowers are living, you need to replace them when necessary to avoid the ugly look of dried flowers. For the non-living flowers, you need to clean them from the dust to give them a fresh look. The flower needs to stay in a vase that has a bright color, which makes it attractive. The flower vase should be on the table placed in the middle of your foyer.

Additionally, place two lamps on the table and a unique conversation item to give a stunning look. Fresh flowers are recommended since they provide a more refreshing feeling. In case the foyer space is not great to use a small table at the entrance that can hold the vase and the lampstand. An empty foyer makes the house look more of a hall than what it is.

Mirror and a Rug

Use a tall mirror to decorate your two-story foyer to emphasize the height of the room. This mirror can be wall-mounted, propped on the floor, or located over the entry table to give a stunning look. Additionally, the mirror height should allow people to check their appearance before exiting the house. The mirror should be properly fixed on the wall to avoid accidents in case it falls. It should be easy and fast to notice the mirror, especially when you are going out to make sure you are neat and ready to face the world. 

Unless your floor is decorated, add a rug to your two-story foyer to increase warmth and softness. The rug will help to trap echo sound that creates a lot of unnecessary noise. Additionally, the mirror and the rug should not go away from the theme color of the house. The rug should be cleaned regularly to ensure that your foyer looks clean and stunning always.

Extra Molding for 2 Story Foyer Decorating Ideas

New architectural moldings help your foyer to look more beautiful than expected. However, you can add additional tall crown molding, wood paneling, wainscoting, or frame out some sections of your entryway wall with some decorative molding. The additional decorations make your large two-story walls to look occupied by the beautiful and unique molds. Additionally, do not forget to check the color of the molding, which should rhyme with the theme of the house.

 Consider adding two comfortable sits at the foyer for you to rest as you read a novel or newspaper. This is one of the most relaxing positions in a two-story that you never thought of, away from the screen and the entire living room. You can make a call without distraction and also take your coffee as you focus on how the day’s events have been.

Tall Entrance Door

It looks stunning when the 2-story foyer has a tall entrance door. The doorknobs with a unique design to create a sense of style. However, the door must have bright spaces at the top made of glass to bring in more light at the foyer.

Use Plants instead of Flowers

To have a unique foyer, you need to use plants instead of flowers since most people have flowers at the entrance. Use one of your best plants that do not grow wildly and tall to replace a bulb. This will give your entry a stunning look.

Use Animal Print

Do you love animal prints? Then this is the best for the stair runner. This is because they’re great at camouflaging muddy footprints, spills making your house look unique and stunning at the entrance. The prints should obey the theme color in the house.

Create a Gallery for 2 Story Foyer Decorating Ideas

 The gallery in the entryway can be of different types, such as the traditional attires, extinct animals, or your family. This will serve as a welcome to any visitor or family member who comes into the house.  However, it will help a great reminder of what happened in the past, creating a cool flashback while relaxing.

 High Drama

Never shy away from what you love. This is because the foyer can give you the best feeling as you enter the house, and the first thing you see is what you love most. If you love books, let your foyer have a library and make sure it is properly arranged with the books you love reading. You will find that a library can make the entrance look amazing.

 Show Off Your Art

Every entry should set the tone for a house. You must not know how to draw for you to love art. Therefore, you can buy already drawn pictures that you love and place them at your entrance. In other cases, if you can draw, it will be an opportunity for you to market your talent right at your foyer. They will serve as decorations as well as pictures for sale.

 Under-the-Stairs Storage for 2 Story Foyer Decorating Ideas

Create a secret compartment under the stairs at the entrance. It will help store most of the items that are urgent during outdoor activities. It will save you the time to climb up and down the stairs. However, the store like foyer is stunning and unique in its own way.

Daring Color 

Consider your best color at the foyer. It can brighten your mood once you come home tired and moody. Make sure it is the original paint to avoid fading. The color should be bright since only bright colors can brighten your mood and the foyer. Additionally, the rug at the entrance can also be brightly colored due to the first impression created at the door.

Hardwood walls and Flooring

Isn’t it beautiful and stunning to have wooden walls and floors? Such foyer is unique as it makes the entire house look bright and warm. It is the best, especially in cold areas. It needs regular cleaning to prevent dust and maintain a shiny look. Hardwood lasts longer and is warmer than the cement floor. It is also easy to fix wall hangings in comparison to the cement wall.

Conclusion on 2 Story Foyer Decorating Ideas

The above two-story foyer decorating ideas are the best to give a first positive impression at the entrance of your house. However, as you choose, consider what you love since it is your house that you want to look good and make you feel relaxed whenever you enter. Choose the best that will make your two stories the most stunning in your environment.

18 Jul 2021
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , , ,

How Long Does it Take to Renovate a Bathroom?

Most contractors will tell you that bathroom renovation takes two to three weeks. But, generally, the process can take six weeks up to three months to permit planning, execution, and finishing loose ends.

If the process entails moving electrical and plumbing, get ready to apply for board approvals and city permits. This might turn out as the largest culprit in delaying the renovation timelines. Maybe you’ve started the process, and you aren’t sure how long does it take to renovate a bathroom. Follow up the tips on this guideline to comprehend more on the same.

How Long Does It Take to Renovate a Bathroom

how long does it take to renovate a bathroom

How Long Should It Take To Renovate a Bathroom?

The step-by-step process of renovating a bathroom needs a strict timeline. Before you start the works, you will need time to do a couple of things, including: 

  1. Preparing for detailed plans; 
  2. Getting approval from the council if need be;
  3. Choosing the products;
  4. Hiring the contractor 

Pre-Construction Phase 

While this is usually the most noticeable development stage, there’s a lot that takes place before getting that heavy hammer. Here are the subtleties that you need to tick prior to getting the project started. 

Stage 1: Closing On Your Property 

This can take 1 to 3 months. Some renovators have several homeowners on their list preparing or seeking to close their properties. You should hold up until you have shut on the property, with your keys close by, before you do anything. If you’re in a rush, hold up until you’ve signed the agreement before starting the design procedure. 

Stage 2: Posting Your Project 

This step goes for 1 to 3 days. You start requesting offers, and while the process continues, you add the space details on what you need to be renovated. You may also include inspiration photos and other information that would assist in getting an ideal contractor. 

After receiving the offers, you should get the time and check on the reviews, including their past clients and their past projects. You want to find a suitable contractor for the task. 

Stage 3: Scheduling Site Visits & Requesting Offers 

This step takes 1 to 3 weeks. After checking on the profiles of various contractors, you pick the one you want to meet on location by scheduling a meeting. An on-location visit is an ideal approach for this kind of meeting. 

It helps the contractor to comprehend the extent of the undertaking, the possible physical outcomes, and confinements of the space. Both of you also get the chance to check on whether it’s possible to meet the project’s demands. After the on-site visit, you expect to get a written bid within 5 to 7 business days. 

Stage 4: Leveling Offers & Picking a Contractor 

This takes 1 to 2 weeks; to receive the entire written offers. You need bids leveling primer, and in case you have follow-up inquiries, it’s the ideal opportunity to ask. You can likewise plan time with a project advisor to walk you via the multiple bids before making your choices. 

Stage 5: Signing Agreement & Settling On Development Plan 

This takes approximately one week. After you’ve chosen a contractual worker, the individual in question will assemble an agreement for you to assess. This will regularly incorporate a portrayal of the task to be carried out, the cost outline, and the payment timings in the entire project. 

Stage 6: Obtaining Permits & Approvals 

The time taken here widely varies. Ordinarily, this is the stage where delays and hiccups take place. Getting board approvals and obtaining the right permits keep many people seeking renovation on board. But you can get a contractor to advise you on how to navigate the process without excessive delay. 

If you’re moving gas lines or plumbing, you’ll need a modeler and extra DOB grants. Some may get the permit in just two weeks, but other approvals go for months. If you dwell in a stand-alone residence, you don’t have to stress over structure board endorsements. However, you’ll still require the imperative city grants for electrical or plumbing tasks, which ensures that everything you do is up to code.

Stage 7: Sourcing Materials 

The time on this stage varies widely. If you’re the one accountable for sourcing some or the entire materials for the project, place the orders immediately after the design plan is completed. Some substances involve long lead times, and you shouldn’t delay your renovation due to one substance. If time is a worry, take a gander at what’s presently in stock and that you can ship. Talk with your contractual worker about planning the substance delivery to match with the time of renovation. 

Stage 8: Tell Your Neighbors 

Be a decent neighbor and warn those next to you that a renovation is starting unavoidably. You need about 15 minutes to do this. Caution them of what’s expected and let them know the time that the project will last. Your question on how long does it take to renovate a bathroom should be answered by now. 

Construction Phase 

While most of the tasks under this phase are your contractual worker’s duty, it’s imperative to comprehend the happenings of the site. The most significant advances you’ll be responsible for here are making planned installments to your contractual worker. The schedules are outlined in your agreement, and thus you ought to keep an open schedule for a couple of hours every week. During this time, you will answer questions about changes or details that surface throughout development. 

how long does it take to renovate a bathroom

Stage 9: It Is Demo Time 

This takes one day. You’ve not completed the paperwork, and it’s the moment for your contractor to get that heavy hammer. Ensure you safeguard the substances in cover or plastic. Contingent upon how huge your washroom is, and the broadness of the renovation, this should take a maximum of 4 hours. 

Stage 10: Rerouting Plumbing & Electrical 

This phase takes 1 to 2 days. Since you’ve stripped the space to the studs, it’s easier now to check on where the new electrical or plumbing will pass through. Think about whether any plans should be changed since you can view what’s behind the dividers. 

Stage 11: City Inspections & Sign-Offs 

One hour on-site is enough. If you required city grants, you may require reviews and a close down before closing on the dividers, and a last close down also. You may look at what the City needs to state about plumbing and electrical permits. While it might take the overseer an hour to carry out his responsibility at the site, booking the real appointment might take days or weeks. 

It’s only a master plumber who’s ordinarily permitted to sign off waterlines if the City inspector is absent. However, the inspector must look at and affirm any undertaking on gas lines. You are not permitted to shut down the dividers and shift into another project phase before this assessment occurs. 

Generally, with electrical work, inspectors are scheduled for visits after the project is complete. They check the outlets, electrical panel, and junction boxes. At times, due to delays and bureaucracy in the City, your electrical assessment might be rescheduled a few times. Check with your architect or contractor about what your undertaking requires. 

how long does it take to renovate a bathroom

Stage 12: Installation of Floor Tiles 

This takes around 12 hours to 1 day. To avoid redoing of flooring, if you choose to reconfigure your space, later on, ensure that the floor is well set for the assignment, regardless of whether some of it will be covered up. 

Stage 13: Installation Completion 

The contractor will need 1 to 3 days to finish installing everything from vanity and sink, tub, toilet, and any built-in shelving. Lighting, hardware, and tiling generally come last. 

Stage 14: Clean-Up 

This takes one day. Commonly, contracts permit that space is left in broom swept condition. But you might need to contract post-construction cleaning experts. These ensure your new floor is sparkling clean. You might also seek the service people to clean your whole home since the dust normally settles in even in other places. 

Post-Construction Phase 

The end goal is in sight. But remember these last but significant steps. 

Stage 15: Final Stroll with Contractor 

The final-walkthrough takes 30 minutes. Assess the work done with your contractual worker. Check each of the drawers and entryways, and take a gander at grout lines and edges and ensure everything is operating well as required. If there’re any issues, bring them up and include them to the punch list. 

The contractor might fix it right away if it’s a minor issue or even set another date for the task. Some professionals recommend that you keep notepads in every space and don’t speak to your contractual worker for about fourteen days during this time. But you’ve to take notes of what should be fixed in your new residence. 

Stage 16: Punch List Things 

You need 1 to 5 days contingent upon what the category of the items. Something like straightening a door for a cabinet to installing the last out-of-stock thing will take a day or several weeks. Your contractor can return and fix everything within a few days.

bottle clean container/how long does it take to renovate a bathroom

Stage 17: Final Payment 

This takes around 10 minutes. You’ve been paying in installments in the entire renovation. But once the final thing in the punch list has been tended to, it’s a great opportunity to cater for the remaining installment to your contractor. You may, in advance, isolate the steps that you feel may be obstructions to assign more time to complete them. 

Since you know how long does it take to renovate a bathroom, you’re now in a better position to plan your next project well. 

Browse our ideas for decorating teenage bathrooms here! 

12 Jul 2021
entryway wall decor ideas
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , , ,

10 Entryway Wall Decor Ideas for Better First Impressions

Looking for Entryway Wall Decor Ideas? Many homeowners underestimate the importance of the entryway. They see it as a room separate from the rest of the house and might be adamant about making any physical changes to this space. However, the entryway is just as important as the other rooms in your house.

This part of the house deserves as much energy and attention as the other areas because the foyer is the first space you and your visitors encounter when you enter the home. The entryway is the first sign of welcome that your guests meet when they step into your space, so why not spruce it up with some décor and tender, loving care? Below, we share entryway wall decor ideas<span style=”font-weight: 400;”> to help you create a great first impression in your entryway.

Entryway Wall Decor Ideas

entryway wall decor ideas

Use Pictures and Wall Hangings to Create Warmth

This is a tip that will serve you as the homeowner first before it serves your visitors. When you use pictures and wall hangings that are personal, you will always get the impression of home when you are at the entryway. Use some of your favorite items, frame a family photo or make the wall a gallery wall and fill it with framed pictures and quotes that mean something to you. Your guests will enjoy the cozy, homey feeling and you will enjoy this space as well. To make it even better, you can incorporate a bench and throw in some cozy pillows to enhance the warmth of the room. 

Bold and Colorful Décor will do the Trick

Your wall décor does not have to be a series of boring photos that make the space dull. We are not discrediting the use of neutral colors, as this can be an amazing way to do your décor. However, the entry point of your house should be an experimental space where you can use colorful décor. Put up a colorful background and slap some vibrant frames and pictures on your walls as well. You realize that you do not spend a lot of time in the foyer, so chances of getting overwhelmed or bored with vibrant, bold décor are minimal. Play with colors and patterns. You can never overdo it!

Hooks and Racks

You might be going through this article, thinking of how you have limited entryway space for experimenting with these great tips – especially if you have many photos lying around or on the walls that you have been meaning to organize. Well, there is something that you can do if you feel that you have limited entryway space, especially when a door covers most of it. Hooks can do the trick for you because in an instance, they can change how the small doorway looks.

Make an effort to select a variety of hooks ranging from sculptural, to big, small, complex or simplistic. Play with your options and your guests will be delighted for sure. You could also play with different colors to see what effect they have on your entryway. You can also choose some simple designs because sometimes, less is more. 

entryway wall decor ideas

Use Statement Pieces for Entryway Wall Décor Ideas

Statement pieces, in this case, means that you can play with scale and proportion as you decorate. Remember, your home should say to the visitors exactly who you are. That is why we advise that you choose a piece that you like and that expresses your personality. These big pieces with an expression of who you are will work perfectly to create a dramatic effect, but the impression will last long.

Using a painting that depicts the setting sun on the horizon, for instance, could do more to add life to the entryway. Also, choose a piece that will blend well with the rest of your house. The entryway is not a standalone space; it accentuates the rest of the house if decorated well.

Built-in Pieces

Using built-ins in your foyer can never go wrong. This entryway wall décor idea will require you to do something functional yet elegant. The advantages of having built-in spaces in the entryway include the fact that it will help the space look tidy. Also, the built-ins can be either permanent or fake depending on your budget, needs and desires. Your visitors will also have a space to store their items as they come into your house, making the idea of built-ins worth trying. The built-in you use for this space should blend in with the rest of the items in the room for a greater effect. 

Cover your Walls

Some people are not into doing extraneous things or they do not like to clutter their spaces. If you are one of these people, then this tip may be of interest to you. Also, you can make use of this idea if your foyer space is small. You can cover your walls using bold colored wallpaper or paint it a bold color, especially when your budget is tight.

You can choose a bold color that blends in with the rest of your household or you can choose a different route. Find a color that you feel is stunning and use it to match your walls. If you are just dipping your feet into the world of warm colors, then you can choose removable wallpaper. Removable wallpaper is easy to manage and you can switch it up when you feel the need to try something different.

entryway wall decor ideas

Floating Shelves

Floating shelves have been all the rage in the recent past, and it is because of how neat and classy they look without any visible finishes or support. These neat fittings on your wall will be welcoming to your visitors while fulfilling the aesthetic and functional needs of shelves. One thing that people forget with floating shelves is to use the underside as well. You can use the underside to hang the coats of your guests whenever they come visiting. 

Mirrors for Entryway Wall Decor Ideas

Mirrors are not just for looking at yourself when you leave for work in the morning. If used well, mirrors can be ornamental. In a space such as an entryway, a mirror could offer so much more. Rustic mirrors appeal to the aesthetics of the home while creating the illusion of space so that your guests can enjoy being in that space before they move further into the home. Try a centerpiece mirror for maximum effect and your guests will love you for this creative addition.

Open Spaces

Some people do not like the idea of putting items in their entryway. If you are this kind of person, then this tip is for you. You can make your foyer an open space and leave your walls empty as well. Having an open space is advantageous because you get to invite your guests in freely without having to worry about items blocking the way for them. Many modern homeowners prefer these open spaces. However, if you like the idea of open space, then you may have to consider another space to store shoes and coats. If you are opting for open spaces, remember to be organized.

Minimalistic Designing for Entryway Wall Decor Ideas

Sometimes, you do not have much space to play within your foyer. If you are one in this category, then the minimalistic approach might be what you need. To spruce up your entryway, you can put up some photos so that your visitors can feel welcome. The trick, however, is to leave the rest of the room clear so that your guests can have space as they walk into the house. This approach prevents them from tripping over things in the entryway and lets them enjoy the view as they proceed to other rooms in the house

Other Elements that make an Entryway Feel Welcoming

Apart from the walls, other parts of the entryway should be well decorated as well to improve the overall look of the area. For instance, you will need to have proper lighting in this area. Also, when putting up wall décor, you will have to consider the floors. The patterns and colors have to work harmoniously to produce a warm feeling instead of creating a disturbance.

Also, remember that you may not get it right on the first try. However, with a little more effort and a few adjustments, you could be on the way to getting the perfect foyer that will create a lasting impression. 

Considering your budget when you are decorating your foyer is critical. Some of the methods that we have discussed above are for people who are within a budget.

hangings on the wall/entryway wall decor ideas

Conclusion on Entryway Wall Decor Ideas

The entryway in your home gives the guests a sneak peek into the rest of your world/home.

This is why it is important to capture them from the start. There are several ways to decorate the walls of your home, including adding mirrors, using bold colors, approaching the walls from a minimalistic point of view, using artwork and pictures for decoration and using built-in and statement pieces to enchant your guests.

Depending on the size of your foyer and your style, you can customize your space in a way that wows your visitors and makes them wish to delve deeper into your home. If your wall is curved, use these tips.

We hope you’ve found our guide to entryway wall decor ideas helpful!

Don’t miss our guide to decorating unused doors in your home! Read more here.

11 Jul 2021
how to hang decorations from the ceiling
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , ,

How to Hang Decorations from the Ceiling: 4 Ingenious, Discreet Methods 

The decorations you decide to put in your room can change its look and feel, and the best place to hang them is ordinarily from the ceiling! It doesn’t matter what you’re trying to hang; there is a wide range of alternatives to handle the task. Thus, it doesn’t have to be daunting when it comes to planning how to hang decorations from the ceiling. Whether you want to hang permanent decor or party decorations, there’re a couple of plentiful alternatives from simple-to-use and basic supplies to those crafty DIYs.

How to Hang Decorations from the Ceiling

how to hang decorations from the ceiling

How to Hang Decorations from the Ceiling 

The following are the four ingenious and discreet methods that you should think about! 

Method 1: Using Adhesives 

You can utilize adhesives to stick your ceiling decorations easily. This method is ideal for lightweight items such as streamers. Applying tape or sticky tack is most likely the best option. It’s also something that you’ll regularly have lying around the house. 

  • Put mounting putty or tape on the ending of your decoration, and connect it to the ceiling. Cover it up and apply some pressure to make sure it doesn’t tumble off. 
  • The tape is particularly helpful on the off chance that you are utilizing one that won’t chip the paint off the ceiling when the decorations are pulled down. Gaffer’s Tape is an excellent alternative to guarantee this. 
  • Mounting putty, otherwise called sticky tack, is likewise incredible for lightweight substances, and you can reuse it. Like mounting putty and tape, you may also give adhesive hooks a try for lightweight items. 
  • You can likewise utilize self-adhesive Velcro within your decorations. Append one side to the ceiling while the next side should hold your ribbon. At that point, attach Velcro back together! 

Method 2: Adding Thumbtacks, Hooks or Nails 

If you’re hanging heavy objects, holding them using tape won’t merely do. Since you’re searching for a more permanent solution, you shouldn’t mind puncturing your ceiling. Attach nails, hooks, or thumbtacks to the ceiling to enable holding of the sturdier mount. This will likewise last longer during the time. 

  • Out of the tree, thumbtacks are the least complex. You can easily pop directly via your decorations and onto the ceiling. These are, however, ideal for lighter items. 
  • You may likewise utilize a hammer for hooks and nails or screw drill in your ceiling. These also enable you to hang or tie objects. The option is much ideal for heavy items since screws, nails, and hooks can support more weight. 

how to hang decorations from the ceiling

Hanging a Hook from a Ceiling 

Embedding a hook into your ceiling is fundamental for hanging plant crates, paper lights, module pendant lights, and other suspended decor. If you don’t hang the hook properly, you may end up damaging your ceiling or your suspended decor. As determined by the heaviness of the item, a toggle bolt may be used to hang decor from the drywall or hang the hook right from the ceiling joist. 

Stuck on Hooks 

While some adhesive-backed hooks can hold to approximately 15 pounds, they depend on the surface you cling them. Before you use such an attachment to hold substantial art or decorations, check the label well for the right preparation and mounting. The producer may guide you to clean your wall, and caution against hanging heirlooms or valuable items and utilizing the wallpaper hooks. 

Method 3: Attaching String, Twine or Fishing Wire 

This should be possible, for instance, by folding it over a hook on the ceiling. Once you have hung them, you may include your decorations from side to side of your hanging line. 

  • Yarn or string is vital since you can find different thicknesses and colors to put to your theme and decor. 
  • Twine is a decent alternative if you’re looking for an increasingly natural feel. 
  • Fishing wire exceptionally serves two helpful needs when hanging decor. It’s strong, and because it is clear and thin, you can easily hide from sight. 

Method 4: Using Clothespins along a Rope 

Maybe you want to hang items such as bulbs or photos from the ceiling. Attach the two ends of the rope from one side to another in your room. Allow the cord to drop in the middle slightly. Utilize clothespins and hang your decor along the rope. 

Getting Creative to Hang your Decorations 

  1. Attach your decorations to exposed beams or ceiling rafters. 

Secure your decorations to ceiling rafters or uncovered bars. Some rooms give you somewhat slacker than a typical flat ceiling. In this case, you can append your decorations to the exposed beams or ceiling rafters. These are more likely to access and are closer to the floor. 

  • Utilize zip ties to fold your decorations over the rafters or shafts safely, so you may easily cut them once you’re done. 
  • You should be capable of tying twine, fishing wire or string, or even the item directly on the rafters or beams in a tight knot. 
  1. Fold your decorations over a light apparatus rather than the ceiling. If you have got a hanging light fixture or chandelier on the roof, it’s easier to tie your decorations items such as streamers or balloons to the light apparatus itself. 

how to hang decorations from the ceiling

Ensure you get the decoration far from the light, or turn off the light to ensure the decoration doesn’t heat or catch fire. 

  1. Slip the endings of your stylistic layout between the ceiling tiles. In case you’re hanging substances from a ceiling with ceiling tiles, for instance, in a classroom, you’ll have the option to slip one ending of your decoration beneath the lifted ceiling tile. Once you put back the ceiling tile to its resting place, it will firmly secure your decor item. 
  • When using clothespins, use lightweight décor items such as streamers or ribbons. It ensures your decor doesn’t slip past the ceiling tiles.  

You have now learned how to hang decorations from the ceiling of your room. Use the above four ingenious and discreet methods to change the appearance and feel of your room! 

Read our 10 unique ideas for decorating an archway in your home here!

10 Jul 2021
how to build a steam room at home
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , ,

Ultimate Guide on How to Build a Steam Room at Home 

Having a steam room or small quadrant shower enclosure at home is one of the best experiences and luxuries that you can have. You get ample time to relax in your home spa while soft heat senses surround you. Your steam room also enables you to enjoy the enriching aromas and soothing light therapy more than you would do in commercial spas. But many people don’t have the clue of how to build a steam room at home. Follow up on this guidance for the relevant tips. 

How to Build a Steam Room at Home

If you have the dream of building a steam shower or spa-quality steam room within your home, you really have many different alternatives that you can go about. There are a decent number of different and ready to fix steam shower cabins that you can get in the market. But if the purchased ones cannot fit in your place or suit your needs, then you might choose to build a DIY one. This enables you to design a steam room that meets your requirements.

However, building a personal steam room entails more than simply putting a small steam generator and fixing glass doors. While you may convert an existing shower area to become your steam room, it works better when you build a full steam room from scratch. You only need a small area of approximately 4 by 5 or 6 feet. 

how to build a steam room at home

How to Build a Steam Room at Home

When installing the entryway, think about small steam rooms such as converted baths or showers. These ought to have a minor gap at the lower part of the door to allow airflow. For bigger rooms, you may fix an air-tight door. 

Every steam shower will require a generator of the correct size. Most producers will give rules to assist you in picking the correct size. The materials utilized in the building of the steam room will likewise influence the type of generator to choose from. After you’ve selected a generator, you should put it in a dry place and where it’s reachable within 5 meters from the steam room. For instance, you can put it in a garage or cupboard. 

But the equipment shouldn’t be located outdoors or within an area where it’s exposed to cold temperatures. It needs electrical and water supply enabling the running of copper pipe from the equipment to the outlet of the steam in the steam room. It must also reach control cables and into the thermostatic control. You also need to insulate the area with a closeby channel. 

The electrical linkage for the generator ought to be 240 volts while the water supply may be cold or hot. While hot water will make steam more rapidly, the option will require that you attach the generator with a water heater. 

Once you’ve got the generator appropriately fixed and have it linked electrically to the control board, you need to plug the equipment in and test it via the control board. If all the essentials are set up well, it should illuminate. 

Now, if everything looks great, pat your back for an excellent job! It wouldn’t damage to have an electrician and plumber come in and see everything to ensure the installation is solid and safe. Regardless of the situation, don’t keep the steam room engaged 24 hours. The ample time allows connections to dry. 

Planning the Layout of the Steam Room: 

  • Seating – ensure there’s sufficient space for the number of users that might use the room. If there’s enough space, leave the steam room to lie down; 
  • Door – you may utilize a sufficiently-sealed shower entryway. If need be, you may visit the steam accessories store; 
  • Steam outlet – the delivery steam pipe ends with a 22mm male link into a steam outlet that’s specially designed, including the steam generator. When thinking about the outlet area, remember that the outlet steam is hot. It’s thus ideal for getting it far from bathers’ feet; 
  • Lights – you’ll require LED lights or IP-rated low voltage for the steam room. You might likewise wish to get two levels of light, soft for bathing, bright for cleaning, or even color light therapy; 
  • Ventilation – there is no necessity for extraordinary ventilation within the steam room. But the space outside your steam room will require extraction since steam will escape from the entryway once you open it; 
  • Steam generator – the generator should be situated in a dry and easily area, which is ideally 5m from the steam room. For instance, you may store it in a pantry, carport, or loft. Space requires a water supply and a reliable electric supply.  You also need the option of running a copper pipe into the steam outlet, including the control cables that enter the steaming room for thermostatic control. 

Planning the Construction: 

  • Floor – similarly, as with a shower, the steam room floor should be waterproof, particularly where it joins the dividers. It should also power into a waste gulley to enable the water to deplete away. 
  • Walls – you can build it in studwork, blocks, or some other stable structure. Next is to line it with a tile-backer board that’s ready for end finishes. 
  • Benches – you may purchase these from a steam room store or build similarly as the dividers and line them with a tile-backer board as you wrap up. 
  • Ceiling – build them as you do the walls. It’s ideal if it’s slightly inclined to permit the condensation to run away. Thus, you may either have a central pitch, domed or slope one way, rolled or barreled. 

Planning the Shower & Accessories and Finishes: 

  • Tiles – It’s the most conventional approach to finish the inner part of a steam room. Practically any kind of tile is suitable if the outside of the tile is non-permeable; 
  • Grout and Adhesive – there is no compelling reason to utilize unique materials since anything appropriate for the shower is good; 
  • Shower – you can likewise install the shower in the steam room or close by to utilize once you move out from the steam; 
  • Accessories – you may choose to include a color light therapy, an automatic essence dosing system, or a stereo system to your beautiful team room 

The main issue of utilizing a bathtub area or current shower is water fume. Hot steam will rapidly relocate through any tiny permeable cracks or divider materials. When it interacts with a colder surface, it will gather again as water. This will harm the dividers after some time. 

how to build a steam room at home

Essential Factors on How to Build a Steam Room At Home 

Insert unique steam-room entryways that suitably seal the walls when shut are accessible at the most building supply outlets and bathrooms. They don’t look much different from customary bath entryways, but they cover every other opening. Steam-room entryways additionally have weather-stripping in the entire joints. 

  • Tile is the ideal wall covering to utilize in your new steam room. The material is built in a thin-set mortar, and apart from sealing the surfaces well, it also lasts for long. By choosing different tile hues, you can make a relaxing and exclusive look in your steam room. 
  • Choose your steam generator dependent on the wall materials and the steam room size being utilized. They are accessible from most big fixture producers, and they can furnish you with diagrams demonstrating suggested generator sizes. Generators are mainly situated 15 to 20 feet from the steam room for purposes of convenience, but the closer in every case, the better. 
  • When constructing your steam room, utilize a polyethylene film water barrier all-around your whole room. Put a 6-millimeter polyethylene film layer above the tile floor. Double it over the film edges to make sure it stretches out to the dividers a bit. The film on the dividers will stretch out down within the floor film to guide the condensed water into the same. 
  • For the best dampness safety, utilize an enormous single bit of polyethylene film when covering all the walls and the ceiling. If you experience difficulty getting the film, make contact with commercial firms that offer supplies to proficient concrete installers. They’ll have the best substances. Staple or nail the film to the divider and roof framing lumber. 
  • Backerboard should now be installed on the ceiling and walls. This is the unbending board that the tile is appended to. A cement backerboard is the ideal substance to utilize. There is water-safe drywall accessible, but a concrete backerboard is impenetrable to dampness and lasts for many days. It isn’t significantly more difficult to operate with than the ordinary drywall. 
  • After you install the backerboards, don’t attempt to fit them consummately together. It’s ideal when small gaps are left to enable you to lay a silicone caulk thick bead in the gap. It’s fine if you use an 8-inch gap to give room for some movement but without making the backerboards separate. 
  • The next step is to add the tiles. You need to utilize a thin-set to join the tiles to the supporter board. This ideally resists the hot steam moisture as compared to other kinds of tile adhesives. Attach the caulk and steam-room door around it to ensure your steam room is satisfactorily vapored tight. 

You may have the option to find special steam room entryways at your nearby home center store. But if that’s not possible, you may attempt a custom kitchen/ bathroom shop or a building supply outlet from a professional. While steam room doors resemble the ordinary shower doors, they cover the entire openings making them well sealed.

Consider this for a Steam Room 

Steam rooms measure approximately 7 feet in height and shouldn’t be taller than 8 feet. Steam goes upwards, and constraining the height of the room guarantees that plentiful steam shrouds the users sitting on benches.

The idea is to keep the twirling steam inside the room, hence uncovered surfaces must be waterproof and leak-free. This retains moisture from creeping into nearby areas, and if that’s not handled well, it might cause structural damage. 

Install vapor-barrier substances before putting the non-porous stone, tile, or solid surface to the floor, ceiling, and walls of the room. The vapor-proof door that you install should open outwards for safety.

Ensure the floor is slip-resistant to avoid fallings. Besides allowing condensed steam to flow, a slightly sloped ceiling likewise stops direct dripping of condensation to the users’ heads. The following are other essentials that you need whenever you budget and plan on how to build a steam room at home.

Add-On Amenities  

Your steam room will need one or two teak benches for reclining or peacefully sitting under the diffused vapor-proof lighting. You need a unique “chromatherapy” LED lights to establish custom-color steam to set a wide cluster of temperaments. 

Consider having a vapor-proof docking station and speakers to enable you to listen to tunes. You can boost your experience by putting aromatherapy oils into the fume. Add fog-free mirrors, regular & rain showerheads, and handheld sprays, to transform your steam room into a pampering relaxation station. 

If constructing a steam room appears like an enormous task, converse with a handyman about putting steam functions to your current shower. 

Thermostats 

A thermostat is a great fixture that the majority of people ignore when planning to establish their steam rooms. In most cases, the steam generator will incorporate an indoor regulator. But in case it doesn’t, you have to buy and install one. 

Contractors 

It might be ideal if you locate an expert contractor to install items in your steam room. There are numerous things to consider, including enclosures, electrical connections, proper plumbing, and several other aspects.

While this might be overpowering to the layman, a contractual worker can ensure that these components will are taken into account for an effective home steam room. Now that you’ve learned how to build a steam room at home, you may start planning by following the tips mentioned above. 

 

09 Jul 2021
how to hang canvas art
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , ,

How to Hang Canvas Art: Step by Step Guide and Top Tips

Do you have a wall that is blank in your house and you would like to give it a facelift? Probably yes. This guide will answer your most disturbing question of How To Hang Canvas Art in all the ways possible. By the end of this guide, you will be able to give a new booming look to that ‘boring’ wall.

Do you have beautiful canvas art that you would like to stick on your wall? Or do you plan to visit that antique shop and find some cool collection for your blank walls? Once you have made your mind on the placement, the next step is to find a way to hang your art and give your wall a stunning look. The best thing about canvas art is their weight; canvas art tends to be light despite their size. The ability to hang with one nail also gives you an easy time when you want to adjust or transfer to another wall.

How To Hang Canvas Art on a wall

How To Hang Canvas Art

The most important consideration when hanging canvas art is the type of wall you have. Different walls have different methods of hanging canvas art. If you have concrete or brick walls, you may need to follow the alternative ways of hanging wall art. But if you have drywall, you will have to follow the most popular way to easily hang your canvas art. 

What You Will Need

For all the methods to hang wall art, you will need basic tools. You may have some of the tools at home or at your workshop but otherwise, you can visit your local store and purchase the ones you lack.

Here is what you will need:-

  • 1 Pencil or a piece of chalk
  • 1 Hammer
  • 1 Screwdriver
  • 1 Spirit level
  • 2 Wall protector pads

Basic Tips To Hang Your Canvas Art

Before diving into the process of having your wall art, it’s wise to give you some tips to make the process easier and effective. Here are top tips to consider in all the methods that will be discussed.

  • Clean the wall with a damp piece of cloth before hanging your wall art.
  • From the beginning, know the measurements of your wall canvas and keep in mind the center points.
  • Have the wall measurements of where you would like to hang your canvas art.
  • Measure the distance from the ceiling, to the floors and sides where you would like to place your wall art. We recommend having the midpoints at around 50 inches from the floor and 10 inches above furniture levels.
  • Using a pencil or piece of chalk, mark an ‘x’ or a ‘+’ on the center to help guide you.
  • Ensure you place the wall pads at the back of your canvas art to protect your wall from scratches.
  • Where necessary, move furniture and other pieces of accessories to facilitate easy moving when hanging your wall art.
  • Hang the canvas and level it until it is perfectly straight.

Ways To Hang Your Canvas Art

All done. Now that we have all the basics and what we will need for the process, let’s check out the different ways you can use to hang your wall art. It is essential to have all the above mentioned tools at hand before embarking on the process. 

Nails

Small pieces of wall art will work better with nails. Always consider the size of your canvas before choosing the nails. Depending on the size of your canvas, you may need one or two nails to make the whole process easy and effective. 

  1. Clean the wall surface using a piece of cloth and mark with a pencil or a piece of chalk
  2. Hammer the nail into the mark leaving at least half an inch out
  3. Hang the wall canvas on the nail

Avoid hammering the nail so hard to minimize wall damages.

a man working on a canvas art

Eye Hooks and J-Hooks

If you have wider or bigger canvases, eye hooks and j-hooks are the way to go. Although they are most popular at professional offices and halls, you will be surprised at how easy it is to hang your wall art at home using them. Small hooks are usually preferred since they do not take much space between the wall and the frame. 

For eye hooks:-

You will need two hooks, a nail, and wire.

  1. Screw the hooks at the top side of the wood frame
  2. Tie the wire between the hooks leaving room for hanging
  3. Hang the canvas on the nail and shape it how you want it displayed

For J-hooks:-

You will need one or more hooks (depending on the size of your wall art).

  1. Place markings on the wall. The number of markings will depend on how many hooks you are using. 
  2. Position your hook(s) on the wall, gently hammering the nail that comes with the hook into the wall
  3. Check to ensure the hooks hang perfectly to have a great display
  4. Hang the canvas on the hooks.

Use the measuring tape to judge the number of hooks you will use to have the canvas hanging sturdily. 

Adhesive Strips

This may be the easiest of all the ways to hang canvas art. Strips are mostly used to avoid causing damage to the walls. Before purchasing the strips ensure you check the maximum weight it can support. The weight of your canvas should guide you on the types of strips to purchase. Strips are easy to use and usually have the manufacturer’s instructions on the pack.

You will need four strips, or more depending on the size of your canvas. 

  1. Mark on the wall strategic positions to hang your canvas – you may draw a straight line for more accuracy
  2. Place the adhesive strips on each of the four corners of your canvas frame. You may add more stripes if need be
  3. Place the canvas on the wall, pressing the stripes to align with the markings on the wall

Sawtooth Brackets

The brackets come in different sizes and shapes. Ensure you pick the correct sizes for the size of your canvas. The brackets should always be placed in the middle of the frame. Use a tape measure to get the measurements of the frame and determine the center.

You will need a sawtooth bracket, screws and a nail.

  1. Hammer the nail into the hook. Hanging the nail at an angle will ensure it takes the whole weight of the canvass.
  2. Mesure the canvas and mark the center point
  3. Place the bracket at the marked point on the back frame
  4. Screw both sides of the bracket firmly

Sawtooth brackets are the most preferred since they offer great stability and firmness of the wall art. They are ideal for both small and medium-sized canvases. They are the simplest and most popular way to hang canvas art

Unframed Wall Art

One or two times maybe, you may come across a piece of art in the stores and the looks capture your eyes. Whether framed or not, that should not bar you from purchasing the piece. For the unframed canvas (often lightweight) use adhesive strips to hang. Follow the procedure given above to ensure the canvas suits your wall and the work is made easier. 

Metal Canvas

Metal art is better known to showcase a personal style and bring extra memories in the event of facelifting your room. Hanging metal art is not as hard as you may think. 

You will need:-

  1. The metal wall art
  2. A hanger
  3. Spirit level
  4. Screwdriver
  5. Nails
  6. Stud finder

How To Hang

  1. Using a stud finder, find a stud in your wall and mark it clearly with a pencil or a piece of chalk
  2. Secure the hanger on the stud by fastening a screw on the marked point(s)
  3. Hang your artwork on the hanger
  4. Use a spirit level to ensure the canvas is straightly placed

canvas art

Give Your Wall a New Look

When selecting or designing wall art, consider the room in which you are going to hang the art. If it is a bright room, consider photos with vivid colors and images. For kids’ rooms, chose pieces of art they will love. This may range from cartoon characters to their favorite pictures just to mention. Getting their views is just another great way to ensure the art you put in place is exactly what they will fall for. 

Moreso, the heights of your walls will dictate how you hang your wall art. Designers and experts advise that wall art should be hung at eye level for easy viewing. This ensures your art is not too high or too low but rather just in place.

You now know How to Hang Canvas Art. Go ahead and give your walls a new look. You can choose to create a wall gallery. a wall gallery incorporates several types of photos and other wall art which are mixed to give an outstanding color theme.

Read our guide to decorating shelves in your home with plants here!

05 Jul 2021
how to paint over lacquer
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , ,

How to Paint over Lacquer: Guide and Tips to get it Right the First Time

Lacquered finishing’s are long-lasting and provide a fine finish, however, painting over lacquer can be a big challenge if you are not aware of the right steps and material needed to complete the job. Unfortunately, lacquer finishing chip easily, making it necessary to repaint constantly. So, you need to learn how to paint over lacquer if you don’t want to spend unnecessarily.

To get you started lets us take a deeper look at lacquer, 

Lacquer paint, unlike ordinary oil-based and water-based paint, contains resin and is designed to create the perfect finish on wooden furniture. Lacquered surfaces, on the other hand, do not use the same procedure as plain wood during painting, making it a little harder than an ordinary painting project. 

How to Paint Over Lacquer

Join in as we go through a step to step guide on how to paint over lacquer and get it right the first time, as well as essential tips, safety concerns, and some of the benefits of using lacquer paint.

multiple colored paint

Items Needed

Sanding paper, preferred sanding paper for a lacquered finish, is 150 and 300 grit.  

Paint

Primer

Sponge or rag

Safety gear

Paintbrush or spray gun

Before painting on lacquer the first and most crucial step is understanding lacquer paint, the different kind of lacquer paints include:

Water-based Lacquer

To curb environmental risks caused by solvent-based lacquers, manufacturers have come up with a safer and better option the water-based varnish. This lacquer is mostly used on bare wood and automobile interiors. 

Water-based lacquer has a high presence of solids. Owing to this, a fine finish requires three-coat and should be done after every 24 hours, additionally when using the water-based lacquer, use water as a lubricant when sanding, water helps produce a smoother finish.

Nitrocellulose Lacquer

This lacquer is mostly used on musical instruments and wooden products. Nitrocellulose lacquer dries fast and also ideal if you are looking for a brightly colored look. Due to the fast drying feature, this lacquer is not suitable for beginners. 

Acrylic Lacquers

The acrylic lacquer is a super dry lacquer paint but is extensively used on automobile, but is now used on wood. 

Urushiol-based Lacquer

The urushiol-based lacquer is resistant to water, acid, and alkaline; this lacquer has a durable finish. Unlike other lacquers, urushiol is slow drying and set best in warm and humid areas. 

Step One

Now that you have identified the different kinds of lacquer paints, find out the best varnish for your project. Some lacquer paints are ideal for metals, bare wood, while others give an excellent finishing on lacquer surfaces. 

Step Two

Assemble, clean, and prepare your work area. 

Remove dust and dirt from the area you are painting. Then you need to sand the surface, this is especially necessary if you are working on a lacquered wood surface. Sanding helps in priming by ensuring your surfaces retain the desired texture. 

 To find out the best sanding paper, on a semi-gloss lacquered project, ask for a 150 grit sanding paper. If the surface has a flat sheen, then use a 300 grit sanding paper as it retains the texture of the surface without causing damage.

Step Three

Wipe the dust with a wet cloth, but do not use excess water. 

Step Four

Apply an even layer of primer.

This step determines your final look, the first important thing to consider when applying premier is using the same primer as the lacquer paint, using a different primer from your paint also affects the color. 

The second vital procedure to pay attention to when applying the primer is ensuring the primer is applied in the same direction, whether you are using a spray gun or a brush.

After applying your primer, you may need to wait from 1 to 24 hours before the primer is fully dry, ensure you ask your paint salesperson on the waiting time during the purchase. 

If you notice spots on the primed surface, gently apply a second coat, but remember to apply the layer in the same direction always.

Tip: when priming the lacquered surface, use an oil-based or latex premier.

Step Five

After properly sanding and allowing the primer to dry, the lacquered surface is now ready to be painted. Remember to maintain consistency by applying the same direction as the primer after applying the first layer, allow the surface to dry. Although these weather conditions may affect the time needed for the paint to dry, the water-based lacquer dry out fast through evaporation while the urushiol-based lacquer dry up better under humid or warm weather. 

Step Six

Sanding the surface, for a smoother look, one is recommended to sand after every layer. For instance, if you want to paint two layers. Wait for your first layer to dry, then sand the surface before applying the second coat. Sanding between layers has been seen to be effective on garden furniture and motorcycle metal. 

Step Seven

Applying the clear coat, after applying your two coats, and allowing the paint to dry completely. The next and final step is applying a clear coat. The clear coat gives the surfaces a shiner and finer look, allow the clear coat to dry before wiping the surface with a cloth.

paint in containers/How to Paint Over Lacquer

Applying paint over lacquer no longer needs to be fail the first time. With the above seven steps, you are guaranteed a smooth final look. 

Lacquer paint cannot be used on all household items; however, to help you decide your next DIY home decoration, here is a list of household items that do well with lacquer paint or finishing. 

Kitchen cabinets

Revamp your trunk with paint over the lacquer project.

Furniture

House art, to mention a few.

Tips to get it Right the First Time

Allow the paint to dry up completely, unlike ordinary paint, lacquer is different and behaves differently under different weather conditions, to ensure your final look is not distorted allow your layers to dry. 

Use a synthetic brush with fine bristles, this brush paints a thin, evenly distributed layer preventing bubbling. 

Safety Concerns and Measures

Lacquer paints are highly toxin, and although manufacturers have tried to produce environment-friendly lacquer, most of the paints are still lethal, thus a need to maintain high safety procedures. 

Use a respirator, due to their toxic nature, painting without a respirator might cause severe health damage to your lungs. Always use a respirator when using lacquer paint

Secondly, paint in an open area, unlike ordinary paints that can be used for household purposes and in interior spaces. Lacquer paints require you to be in an open area. 

The third safety procedure is wearing safety clothes and gloves when in contact with your skin one is advised to wash thoroughly under running water as contact with your skin may lead to irritation or other skin conditions. Also, when using lacquer paint, do not leave your hair uncovered. 

Lacquer paints are highly flammable, avoid working near heat sources. 

Personal Care

Avoid eating or drinking in the work area

Avoid storing your food or drink near the working area

If possible, always take a shower before changing into your day clothes. 

In case of contact, here are some of the signs and symptoms to look out for.

Skin irritation

Coughing

Running nose

Wheezing

Fever and sore throat 

In case of any of these symptoms, give first aid treatment before seeking further medical attention. 

The health and safety concern may scare you away from using lacquer but, with proper safety procedures and personal care, the project is not only cost-effective but is also fast. More advantages of using lacquer paint include

Lacquer finishing is finer and beautiful compared to traditional paints. Giving your home a modern and serene ambiance.

Lacquer paints are cheaper compared to ordinary paints. Additionally, these paints are available in spray guns and aerosol sprays, making them ideal for DIY projects. 

Lacquer paints are not affected by the weather. Most lacquer paints dry fast even in warmer places compared to other paints. Lacquer is also not affected by dust, meaning one can apply varnish in any space without worrying about the final look.

Lacquer finishing’s are easier and faster to clean, owing to the smooth finish, having lacquer finished wood, meaning less time cleaning the kitchen cabinet.

hands in hand paint

Bottom Line on How to Paint Over Lacquer

Despite the procedures and time consumed in painting, lacquer paints provide much more value, with the above information you are not only equipped on how to get it right the first time but also understand health concerns to ensure you are not endangered. 

Painting is a fun experience, and with the right color paints, you can easily transform your home. Find out what paint does well with what part of the house, and for decorative items or furniture in the house, why not try out a new DIY experience by trying out painting over the already existing lacquer.

 But remember lacquer paint does not work on all surfaces but is ideal if you are looking for sheen and love noticing details on the items as the paints bring out the very best in the household materials. Also, paint behind the toilet with these tips.

Don’t miss more painting tips for your home here!

05 Jul 2021
how to paint behind a toilet
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , , ,

5 Tips on How to Paint Behind a Toilet Neatly

Painting your toilet does not have to cause you a headache or cost a huge amount of money from hiring a professional painter. You can easily and effectively do it yourself and achieve a professional and neat look. Here is how to paint behind a toilet neatly.

There are two main methods used to paint the back of the toilet, the traditional and modern approach. The concept in both these methods lies in the tools used and the final look. The modern approach may use a lot of time, and more resources, but provide a finer and smoother look. 

How to Paint Behind a Toilet

For others, the back of the toilet is rarely seen, and the need to have a smooth and perfect look may not be in their plan or budget. Both these methods, however, ensure you achieve and effectively paint the back of the toilet.

using a paint roller

For the modern method, you will need to use a roller and detailed brushes while in the traditional method, you could use a stick and rag or the Jimmy sponge stick. Besides being an ideal option for homeowners looking to reducing their spending, the traditional method is also suitable for smaller spaces as the tools used can fit in better, ensuring every part of the toilet gets painted. 

To learn more about how to paint behind the toilet neatly read on as we go through 5 must-have tips for a perfect DIY toilet painting project, as well as tools to ensure your work is easier. 

But first,

You need to clean your toilet, though an integral part of the house, the bathroom can sometimes be smelly, to ensure you do not rush through the painting due to the smell, thoroughly clean the bathroom. It will not only help to clean the toilet bowl but the floor and the tank as well. After cleaning the toilet, ensure the toilet is dry, remember you will be on your knees and hands a lot, you do not want to get all messy. 

Second, assemble your painting tools, to achieve a professional look; you will also need to use professional tools. The secret in achieving a great final look is in the tools, invest in high-quality painting tools and paint. Assembling your devices also reduces movement, preventing accidents or spillages. 

After preparing for the painting process, the five tips on how to paint behind the toilet include: 

Quality Mini Roller

Invest in a quality roller, this DIY project may be the beginning of more painting projects, why not use a quality roller that will not only avoid spillage, but also lays the paint better, prevents length on when painting and also lasts longer. 

Painting behind your toilet may turn out unattractive when you use the wrong roller. Although it is the back of the toilet, you need to ensure the paint lays on perfectly, saving on time and additional future cost. 

One such mini roller is the premier white woven roller. This roller has minimal splatter meaning less cleaning after the project, and also has a 6-inch frame; the woven roller is also great in providing an excellent finish on smooth surfaces. 

Additionally, when buying a roller, ask the salesperson for a sturdy handle.

But you may be wondering why not use a painting brush for this project. Painting brushes though effective do not provide different finishing. Rollers are designed to provide either a textured or smooth finishing and lay on paint much faster. This, however, does not mean that brushes are out of the question. 

An alternative to the mini roller.

Use a stick and rag, if the space between the tank and the wall is smaller, then consider using a stick and rag. Dip a rag in the paint but avoid excess paint on the cloth as it may spill, then with the help of the stick, roll the rag up and down. This method is slow and may not provide perfect lines, but will avoid detaching the water tank from the wall. 

Get the roller we recommend here on Amazon for an affordable price. 

Extension Pole

Now that you have your quality mini roller in place, what happens when you need to reach hidden spots on the back of the toilet or even paint the wall behind the toilet? You will need an adjustable pole, an adjustable pole will help you reach high areas without using a ladder, remember the bathroom is a small room and it may be unsafe to use a ladder. 

One effective extension pole in the market is the Mr. Long Pro Pole Extension, though light this extension pole is durable, strong and has a glass fiber handle making it comfortable and easy to use. When buying an extension pole, it is also essential to find out how secure the pole is after extending the length, the point in using an extension pole is avoiding accidents in small areas such as the toilet. 

Have a Variety of Brushes

When painting the back of the toilet, you will experience edges, angled surfaces, and other hidden areas, the water inlet pipe, on even the back of the water tank. Invest in a variety of brushes, use both angled and detailed brush. 

These brushes ensure you get a crisp, fine and cut-clean final look, the detail brush can be used to paint the water inlet pipe, while the angle pipe will be used to paint behind the water tank. 

Remember, the quality of the brush also determines the amount of paint absorbed in the paint, one feature to look out for is firm bristles on the brush, this not only ensures you get that clean-cut look but also allows you to use the brushes on more projects. 

Additionally when using water based paints, use polyester or nylon brushes, when using oil-based paint son the other hand, use a natural brush. 

Another tip when buying the brushes is using different size inches angled brushes, the best-angled brushes for a toilet project are 2 and 3 inches brushes. 

Turn on the Fan

You read that right, and wait, hear me out. The toilet is one of the most important parts of the house, to ensure your paint dries out fast, you will need to have fan, excess moisture in a room prevents your paint from drying quickly, and fan will help in solving the issue. 

On average, painting the back of your toilet should take a maximum of 3 hours. This, however, depends on the size of the bathroom and details and space on the back of the toilet. Another vital tip to help you finish the project faster is painting a thin skim coat. This coat should take approximately 30 minutes to dry. To smoothen the look, you could add one or two more layers, though three layers will need more time to dry, the fine look is long-lasting. 

Last Resort, Removing the Water Tank

As earlier on mentioned, if the roller does not fit, one could use a stick and rag to paint behind the water tank. However, if you are looking for a professional look and do not mind the detaching and attaching process of the water tank, then your last resort might be removing your tank. Caution, removing your water tank should never be an option if you have not tried other options. 

Also, removing a water tank may require more time; however, to ensure the painting process is a success, here is a guide on how to go about the entire process. 

Flush out the water in the water tank; secondly, turn off the water entering the tank through a valve attached to the wall. Now that your water tank is empty, unscrew the tank by removing the hose on the back of the tank and then removing the plastic nuts securing the tank to the wall. 

The tank should lift easily, after painting the back of the toilet and allowing it to dry, carefully screw back the tank by placing the nuts and bolts in the right positions, then turn on the water and flush the water to inspect any leakages or any malfunctions. 

using a paint brush

Bonus Tip

Use a Drop Cloth or Tarp

Have a drop cloth or tarp to help cover your floor from paint spillage, no matter how carefully you are when painting. A little spillage is unavoidable, but one could use old absorbent cloth around the house or buy a tarp. 

The aftercare for your equipment is another essential factor to consider. As earlier on mentioned, the mini-roller and brushes will not only serve in this project but will also be used in the future. 

To avoid mixing paints, wash your roller and brushes in running water and let dry.

Take Away on How to Paint Behind a Toilet Neatly

Painting behind the toilet is a fairly easy project, saving yourself money by hiring a professional painter, by merely investing in quality tools. With the above tips, you are sure to have a perfectly painted toilet. 

But remember, before embarking on this project, clean your toilet, if you suspect spillage make use of tarp and absorbent drop cloth. To ensure the fabric does not move around, you could use a painters tape. Finally, do not be in a hurry to paint the second or third coat as it may affect the final outcome, take time and allow the paint to dry. 

Get more tips here with our guide to renovating a bathroom. Read more here.

05 Jul 2021
how to make longer curtains
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , ,

How To Make Curtains Longer: 3 Ways To Extend Curtain Length Beautifully

The demand for long curtains is on the rise. Sometimes, a 90-inch drop isn’t just enough, and wanting a bit more length is always desired. Curtains that are too short can make your room look smaller. This is the reason why most people opt to look for curtains with a 108-inch drop. The problem though is knowing How To Make Curtains Longer and maintain its beauty. 

How to Make Curtains Longer

You need to have a longer curtain if your building has a tall ceiling and a 90-inch curtain cannot fit in. These longer curtains are also seen to be very stylish as the ‘ceiling to floor’ look is becoming increasingly popular when people are choosing curtains for their homes. Longer curtains can make your smaller room feel spacious. However, did you know that you can make your curtains longer on your own? The following are three ways How To Make Curtains Longer.

long curtains

How to Make Curtains Longer

1. Purchase Curtain Rings

Curtain rings can help to add several inches to your curtains. This gives you the length that you need to have your curtains reach the floor or just above it. You, therefore, need to set a budget for these rings. Sometimes, you might have to dig deeper into your pocket if you buy them from certain stores. 

The good news is that you can buy them from Amazon and still get a discount. In most cases, these rings usually come in different sizes. They can come in either 1.5 inches or 2 inches. When buying these rings, you should check the width of your curtain rods. This is because these rings need to fit on the rod easily.

Each panel can have at least seven rings or even more if the panel is wide. However, the most important thing is to space the rings out. The clips on the rings will help you to hang your curtain well. These rings can help you make your curtains long enough. Your curtain might just hang above the floor or just graze it.

 

Check out our guide to how to get layered curtains using one rod. Read more here! 

2. Redo the Bottom Seam

The bottom seam of any curtain is usually a large edge of fabric that is folded over and then a smaller amount of material folded and sewn. If your curtains are short in length, you can undo the seam and create a new seam where you can fold a small amount of fabric cover. A seam ripper can help you to undo your seam. Once you open the first fold, only one fold will be left on the fabric. This fold will be left with no stitches. Two ways can help you redo the bottom seam where the fold is at.

One of these ways is to sew it. Using a sewing machine, you can run a straight line of stitches along the fabric, and you will have lengthened your curtains by a few inches. If you do not have a sewing machine at home, you can try to increase the bottom edge of your curtain. 

Here you can get a ribbon-like roll type of a fabric tape known as stitch witchery and then roll it out in two pieces of fabric. Once this is done, you can heat the iron and then press the areas that you have placed the stitch witchery. This can help to fuse the two pieces. One advantage of using stitch witchery is that it can make your curtain last for many years despite being handled carelessly.

how to make curtains longer

3. Sew On Some Additional Fabric

This is an easy way of adding more inches to your curtains. All you have to do is to sew the fabric that you have onto the bottom of the curtain. As you do this, you need to choose a color that goes well with the current fabric of the curtain. However, as you plan to add some fabric onto your curtain, you should follow certain steps. 

First and foremost, you should hang the curtain and get an accurate measure of how much material you want to add. Here you should measure the distance between the end of the curtain to the floor. You should then double up this distance as you will have to fold the material you want to sew to the bottom of the curtain panel. For the seam allowance, you can add one more inch.

Having determined these dimensions, you can then cut your material and then use a hot iron to fold the material into two. This can help you make a neat edge and hide the frayed edge. You can then add this material to your curtain and then sew it. Once this is done, you can then use a hot iron to press the seams and curtain for a beautiful finished look.

As you add some fabric on your curtain, you can consider creating a contrasting or a monochromatic effect. All these depend on your preferences and your overall decorative style.

long curtains in the living room/how to make curtains longer

There are instances when you’ll prefer to sew on some lace on your curtain. However, you must ensure that your curtain goes well with the lace. You can then add a piece of lace at the bottom of your curtain. Remember that the lace requires more refined sewing. It will help if you are careful so that it can retain a beautiful outlook once you have added it separately. A sewing machine with a fine needle can help you achieve this objective. Once you have sewed it, you can then iron the curtain and then hang it on the rod to look more appealing.

If you choose to add a ribbon to your curtain, you should ensure that it complements the color of your curtain and the theme of the room. When you use it with lace ruffles, your curtain n will look longer than before. A longer curtain can help to prevent light from getting into your bedroom at night. Besides, it can also help to optimize your privacy. 

No one will be able to peep from outside. Long curtains can make your room look bigger than it is. These ideas can help increase the length of your curtain beautifully. Try them today, and you will not be frustrated. Then hang two curtains on one rod with these tips.

Discover top tips for de-cluttering your home. Read more here with our go-to guide.

05 Jul 2021
how to tile a ceiling properly
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , , , ,

How To Tile a Ceiling Properly By Yourself: Step by Step Guide and Top Tips

If you are wondering how to Tile a Ceiling by yourself, then read this. If you have chosen to remodel or build a new home, there are many options that you can consider. Tiling, aside from painting, is a good option if you want to improve the aesthetic value of your home. You can install them either in your kitchen, living room, bedroom, or even in the outdoor section of your house.

How to Tile a Ceiling

They are fantastic and most preferred for creating the desired atmosphere. Their timeless appeal and durable nature make them more popular in many homes. The good news is that they come in a wide range of textures, colors, and even patterns. Besides, they are easy to clean and maintain. Since they provide a long-life flooring solution, they are therefore ideal for many homes.

Your celling is an essential part of your home. You need to make it look more attractive. Tiling it can help you achieve this goal. You can either hire an expert to do this for you or just choose to do this on your own. Here, we shall look at the essential steps that you should follow when tiling your ceiling:

tile patterns

How to Tile a Ceiling

1. Clean the Ceiling

Your ceiling might be dirty due to dust and other debris. You should clean it first using broom covered with a tee-shirt to get rid of the excess dirt. If the ceiling is greasy, you can use a wet sponge to get rid of the grease. An all-purpose cleaner can help you get rid of this dirt more effectively. The good news is that a clean surface will enable your tiles to stick well. Once you have cleaned the ceiling, you should let it dry thoroughly before applying your tiles.

2. Measure the Square Footage of Your Room

A measuring tape can help you know the dimensions of your ceiling. You will be able to know how wide and long your ceiling is. Get the product of these dimensions to get the actual square footage. For instance, if your ceiling is 15’ long and 18’ wide, the square footage of the ceiling is 270’.

3. Determine the Number of Tiles that You Need

You still need to get the square footage of each tile again. Here, you can measure the length and the width of the tiles and get the product of these dimensions. Once you have the square footage of each tile, you can then divide the square footage of the ceiling by the square footage of one tile. This will help you know the number of tiles that you need to install on your ceiling. It is always advisable that you avoid buying the exact number of tiles that your ceiling needs. You should instead buy at least 15% more tiles than you need. As such, you will be able to replace the damaged tiles whenever you cut any one of them by mistake.

4. Remove Any Fixtures or Vents on the Ceiling

You likely have some light fixtures or fans on your ceiling, like this one available on Amazon. You should remove them first so that you can have an easy time installing the tiles on your ceiling. If you try to install the tiles when these fixtures are still there, you might end up damaging the fixtures. You should take your time when removing these fixtures and probably clean them so that they can look more appealing.

5. Find the Center of the Room

You can use chalk lines to find the center of the room. In this case, you need to measure halfway across each wall in opposite directions. Someone can hold the chalk line or reel for you as you walk to the opposite end of the room. Snap the chalk line and repeat it in the other direction. The center is where the lines cross. A carpenter’s square can help ensure that the lines form 90-degree angles.

6. Apply Cement or Adhesive To Your Tiles

A form brush or a putty knife can help you apply cement at the back of your tiles. You should spread the adhesive to the four corners of the ceiling tile. Remember that each tile usually has a particular adhesive suitable for it. In this case, you need to check tile package instructions to determine the right adhesive for your tiles.

7. Apply the Whole Tile to the Ceiling

First and foremost, you should place the tile n the center of the room. This is where the two chalk lines intersect. You should then press firmly against the ceiling and ensure that it is leveled well. If it is not aligned properly, you can align it well. Once this tile is fixed, you can then place the other tiles from the center of your ceiling until you reach the end of your room. The chalk line will guide you in this undertaking.

8. Cut the Tiles for Fixtures

Once you reach the fixture hole, you should measure the size and shape of the hole and then locate where it will be on the tile you intend to place. These measurements can help you draw and cut the hole more accurately without damaging the tile. Once this is done, you can then apply some glue and then place the tile on the ceiling where the fixture will be. You should always ensure that the hole is completely visible. Doing some tests can help prevent making some mistakes when installing the tile on the ceiling. Besides, this helps you to install the fixture easily.

9. Measure and Cut the Edge Tiles

As you finish tiling your ceiling, you will notice that some sections will not be entirely tiled. In this case, you’ll need to measure the exact sizes of the tile for the edges. Once this is done, you can then cut the tiles and then apply some glue on the backside and finally press the tile against the ceiling. You should do this for all the edges. You must ensure that the tiles fit well. The tile should not be too tight or too difficult to install.

10. Attach the Molding to the Borders

You can choose to attach molds to the borders, but this is optional. If you choose to do this, you should use a staple or a nail gun to secure the molding to the wall. You can then fill the holes with wood filler and then paint the molding. The good news is that molding can help make your room look more polished.

The following are some essential tips that you should consider when installing tiles on your ceiling:

1. Use Grout to Your Creative Advantage

You might think that tile grout is merely a filler for tile seams. However, this is not always the case. The grout can be used to enhance the outlook of your ceiling tiles. You should ensure that the color of the grout is slightly different from that of the tiles. It can either be darker or slightly lighter.

2. Always Order for More Tiles

Once you have known the exact number of tiles that you need to install on your ceiling, you should consider getting more than the exact number. Ideally, you should purpose to order between 10-15% tiles than what you need for your ceiling. This helps to take into account any cuts that need to be made and for any damaged tiles. If you fail to order more tiles, your work might remain unfinished and even end up taking longer than usual to complete it.

3. Use the Right Adhesive

You need to choose the right adhesive for your tiles. Each tile usually has its adhesive that you should use when installing the tiles on your ceiling. If you fail to use the right adhesive, your tiles might not stick well. You might not even end up with a good finish. The package of the tiles usually contains more information regarding the adhesive that you should use for those tiles.

4. Remember to Clean the Ceiling

You should always get rid of excess dirt on your ceiling before finally installing the tiles. You should get rid of grease, cutting compounds, and other forms of contamination that might make your tiles not to stick well. This exercise might take time, but it is worth it. Besides, the tiles should be clean and dry. If the back of the tiles is dirty, you should clean it first before applying the adhesive.

5. Ensure that the Tiles in Good Contact with the Adhesive

The whole back of each tile should be in good contact with the adhesive. In this case, you should press the tiles firmly into the adhesive to minimize the chances of voids occurring beneath the tiles.

6. Let the Tiles Have a Symmetrical Tile Layout

Did you know that symmetry pleases the eye and the brain? This is the reason why you should ensure that your tiles’ layout is symmetrical. If it happens to be asymmetrical, one will be able to know that something is not right. In this case, you should ensure that the tiles are of the same size. You should avoid having full-size tiles on one side and half-size tiles on the other side.

7. Reduce Tile-cutting

You are bound to cut a few tiles if the full ones are not enough. However, did you know that cutting the tiles can make them look jumbled and visually chaotic? Ideally, you should try as much as you can to use full tiles. The more full tiles that you use, the better. This not only improved the outlook of your ceiling tiles but also minimized your work. If you have to cut the tiles, you should consider using a wet tile saw. It is considered better than a rail tile-cutter.

8. Try to Avoid Tiles that are Less than Half-size

Since you want to have an attractive ceiling, you should try to avoid having skinny tiles. Such tiles usually draw a lot of attention from onlookers as they are different from others. In this case, you should try using cut tiles that are between half and full-size. Anything less than half-size will look awkward.

9. Get a Helper

You cannot manage to cut the tiles and still fix it on your own. You might get too tired and even fail to complete the project in good time. Getting a helper can enable you to finish your work on time. He or she can be cutting the tile as you install them. You can also choose to apply the adhesive as he installs the tiles. This makes the work easier.

10. Clean out the Squeeze-out

Your tiles are likely to have some excess squeeze-out after installing them on your ceiling. You should not leave the tile this way for long. A utility knife can help you to plow excess thin-set out of the joints more effectively. This can make your tiles to look more attractive.

tiles in patterns/How to Tile a Ceiling

11. Get Tiles from a Reputable Manufacturer

Many people claim to sell high-quality tiles, but this is not always the case. Remember that tiling your ceiling is a good investment for your home. You should, therefore, look for a reliable supplier and buy quality tiles from them. You can even ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives. This can help you save the problem of having to replace tiles now and then. If you choose to buy these tiles online, you should check the reviews of the seller. Ideally, he should have good reviews from different customers out there. This is an indication that you will get value for your money.

Good preparation is essential when one is installing ceiling tiles. You should set a budget for these tiles and then but tiles that match the theme of your house. They should complement the overall outlook of your house. You should have all the necessary tools that can enable you to install these tiles on your ceiling. You do not have to rely on an expert to install these tiles for you. Doing it on your own can help you save more money. Follow the above-mentioned guide and tips, and you will have a beautiful tiled ceiling.

Check out our guide to 10 gorgeous breezeway ideas here!

 

 

04 Jul 2021
burlap table decorating ideas
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , ,

10 Amazing Burlap Table Decorating Ideas for a Chic Dining Table

Burlap is a type of fabric made from a jute plant or sisal plan. This type of fabric is used to make items like ropes, nets, and sacks. Recently people have fallen in love with burlap as a material used for decorations widely across the globe. Burlap has found its way into people’s farmhouses, living rooms, bedrooms and also in the kitchen areas. Here are 10 burlap table decorating ideas for a chic dining table.

An Elegant Table Runner Made of Burlap

A dining table is a type of table on which meals are served, mostly a dining table is found in the dining room. This makes the table special. To decorate it one can use a table runner made of burlap to make it stylish and classy. Place the table runner lengthwise at the center of the table and let a portion of it hang widthwise over the table’s edges. This will work better if you have a rectangular dining table and the results will be amazing.

burlap table decorating ideas

Make Flowers Using Burlap and Place Them on the Dining Table

Use burlap to make beautiful flower bouquet and place them on top of the dining table with a table runner made of burlap spread on it. You will need burlap, wooden buttons, a glue stick, and a hot glue gun to make a burlap flower. Burlap is a fabric that comes in different colors so you can mix the colors and come up with a beautiful and colorful burlap flower bouquet to compliment your dining table.

Add a Stylish Burlap Bow on the Table Runner on the Dining Table

Use burlap to make stylish bows that you can attach on hanging portions of your burlap table runner. All you need is burlap, a pair of scissors, floral wire, a craft paintbrush, and jute twine. This burlap bows will make the table runner more elegant on your dining table.

Include Unique Burlap Table Mats on Your Dining Table

Make unique table mats using burlap and place them on the sides of your dining table. You can go ahead and customize them by writing amazing messages on the burlap table mats like bright, joy, peace, and love among others. You can also weave burlap stripes to come up with cute and adorable table mats.

Make an Elegant Cutlery Holder Using Burlap

You can make a cutlery holder using some hard cardboard and burlap. Wrap the burlap around the cardboard neatly then arrange your knives, spoons, and folks in the burlap cutlery holder and place them on your stylish dining table. You can also tie small burlap bows around the burlap cutlery holders to add more elegance to it.

a burlap bag with beans

Add stylish Burlap Napkin Rings on the Dining table

A dining table without napkins on it is an incomplete dining table set up. Add elegance on your dining table by improvising napkin rings made of burlap. You can use toilet paper rolls, fix burlap on them firmly and create unique napkin rings for your dining table. This will help you present a beautifully arranged napkins on the dining table.

Be creative by Wrapping Dinner Candles Using Burlap Ribbons

Candles on a dining table lighten then mood around it. You can and style on your dining table by making beautiful ribbons using burlap stripes and then wrap them delicately on the dining table candles. Doing this will also brighten then dining table with style and class. You can also use the burlap ribbons to decorate the candle holders too and mount the candles wrapped with burlap ribbons and place it on your dining table as a part of the decoration. 

Remember to keep it simple. Do not overwrap the candles and the candle holders because doing this will make the dining table appear overwhelming.

 

Don’t miss our guide to de-cluttering your home. Read more here!

 

Place a Stylish Burlap Vases on Your Dining Table

Beautiful vases displayed on a dining table works wonders in terms of decoration. Add one or two stylish burlap vases on your dining table. Make your vases even more adorable by wrapping burlap around them this will make the vases appear unique and simple at the same time. You can put some fresh or dried flowers in them to add a natural feeling and beauty to your dining table.

Make an Elegant Burlap Topiary for Your Dining Table

If you are not a flower vase person you can make beautiful burlap topiary and place it at the center of your dining table. All you need is a ball, some toothpicks, a small-sized clay pot, a burlap, and a strong straight stick. You can use these items to come up with the beautiful burlap topiary to take the center place on your dining table this is a unique yet elegant way to decorate your dining table.

Turn a Plain Dining Table Cloth into an Elegant Fabric Using Burlap

You might have that one plain simple table cloth that you like so much that you prefer a table runner. Well, you can add a bit of class and elegance to it by adding a burlap finishing around it. Spread it on your dining table and add some decorations like burlap vases on top to make it even more beautiful than it is. This will work perfectly if the fabric is plain white and also if your dining table is circular.

a toy in a burlap covered tray/Burlap Table Decorating Ideas

Conclusion

There are so many decorating ideas when it comes to decorating the dining table. Using burlap to decorate your dining table will turn your dining table from that ordinary dining table it was to a new elegant and classy dining table. You can also decorate the dining area by arranging a customized burlap dining chair. You can make some elegant chair skirts using burlap and knit them carefully in a decorative pattern around the dining chairs. This will add some style on the chair and they will fit right in with the burlap decorated dining table. Let your dining table be elegant and unique by decorating it using burlap.

 

Check out our round up of 20 gorgeous plant shelf decorating ideas here!

03 Jul 2021
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , ,

How to Install a Cast Iron Tub: Everything You Need to Know Beforehand

Why would you want to learn about How to Install a Cast Iron Tub? Cast iron tubs have become common because they are sturdy and strong. These tubs are also elegant looking and easy to clean and therefore many people prefer installing cast iron tubs in their homes as compared to other types of tubs.

How to Install a Cast Iron Tub

It is now easy to create the bathroom of your dreams by using cast iron tubs and giving your space an elegant and modern look that is also timeless with a tub that is guaranteed to last you a lifetime.

a bathtub

Advantages of Installing Cast Iron Tubs

Cast irons have many advantages over other types of tubs like steel, fiberglass or even plastic.

Durability: cast iron is very durable and this is why it is preferred by many when installing tubs. You are ensured that a cast iron tub will last years and will not cost you a lot when it needs maintenance. Cast iron is sure to resist the test of time compared to other tubs so if you want a tub that will last you a lifetime, then consider investing in a good cast iron tub. This is a tub that is scratch-free and resistant to corrosion.

Maintenance: this is a very easy material to maintain and clean because nothing much is needed to keep the tub looking clean. If you clean your tub well, you are sure that it will retain its original look and color for a long time and you will not need to replace it ever. Natural ingredients can be used to easily clean cast iron and you will not need the use of harsh chemicals and scouring pads to keep your tub looking clean.

Stability: Apart from being durable, installing a cast iron tub ensures the user that they are getting a very stable and sturdy tub. This is a tub that can be used by people of all sizes and weights, however proper consideration must be taken when installing them on floors so that they do not damage the floors in case they have not been reinforced properly. If the user is a bit heavy then you must make sure that the floor is reinforced to hold the weight of the tub, water, and the individual using the tub.

Variety: if you are tired of the normal all white tubs, then the cast iron tub is just what you need because they come in a variety of colors that you can add to match your décor and transform your space. Different shapes are also available for the user to choose from rectangular tubs to oval and many others. You can now get the perfect shape for your space. If you have a modern home or just want to transform your home and give it a much more modern look, choose between the wide variety of colors and shapes and get one that properly suits your style.

Heat retention: everyone loves to have a warm bath because it is relaxing and therapeutic. A cast iron tub is the best option because your bath water will remain warm for a while unlike other tubs like steel that cools water fast. These tubs are thick and you are sure that you will have warm water for your soak for a long while and you will not need to keep refreshing the water when you are in the tub.

Versatility: Built-in tubs are very rigid and it is very difficult to style them in any other way but cast iron stand tubs are versatile and can fit well in any kind of bathroom. You can change positions easily if you want to.

Disadvantages of Installing a Cast Iron Tub

Apart from the many advantages of the cast iron tub, it also has some disadvantages that are worth mentioning and put into mind before one decides to purchase and install them in the home. The following g are some of the disadvantages:

Weight: cast iron tubs are very heavy, this means that they may not be ideal if they are being used by heavy people. If the tub is being installed on an upper floor bathroom then proper measures must be taken to ensure the safety of the people using it and that they will not damage floors especially if the floors are not properly reinforced to hold the weight.

Heat: Cast iron may retain heat for a long time and give you a warm soak for long but it also takes time to heat up to the temperature you want. Ensure that you give the cast iron a bit more time to heat up before you get in for a soak since you might be surprised that the water is warm but the tub is still a little cold against your skin.

Bulky: If you have a small bathroom, fitting a cast iron tub can be quite tricky since they are larger compared to other tubs.

how to install a cast iron tub

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Cast Iron Tub

Before you install a cast iron tub, you need to ensure that you have everything set up and consider a few important factors that will ensure that you get the right tub for your home:

Cast iron tubs do not need frames because their strength will allow their feet to be bolted on their bodies. They can support themselves and their contents safely.

Consider the weight of the person who will be using the tub and the water and ensure that the tub you have will hold the weight without being strained. This is because you need to consider the floor that you are installing the tub in especially if you are installing it in a bathroom that is not on the ground floor.

Ensure that you have enough room for your tub and leave enough space for cleaning and for entering and leaving the tub.

Treat the floors and timbers if there are any and reinforce any joists in case you are replacing your old tub with a new cast iron tub. This is because of the extra weight especially if the previous tub was lighter.

Make sure you have enough space to fit your desired tub before you buy it. Remember that cast iron tubs are generally larger than other types of tubs so they need a bigger space for them to fit well. Measure and mark the space so that you have the proper dimensions especially if you do not have a spacious bathroom.

The size and shape of your tub of choice are also important because it will determine how it will fit in the space you have for it.

You might also want to consider the color of the tub you want against the overall décor of the bathroom so that you can get a tub that will properly fit your style and décor.

Before you start installing the tub of your choice, ensure that you have checked the quality of the tub you want to buy. Tubs need to be inspected and approved that they have passed the appropriate safety standards. You need to be sure that the tub is being sold by a reputable vendor and that they have assured their quality according to the ADA rule and regulations.

This way you have the surety that the tub you are about to install in your home is safe and it will work the way you intend it to. Consult a plumber who is also certified to check and assure you that the plumbing in your home is ok and that the tub can be installed in the place you want.

how to install a cast iron tub

Installation of the Tub

Once you receive your new tub, take a pencil and mark the floor dimensions so that you have the position of the tub properly identified. Make sure that the floor in this position is leveled and can properly hold your tub.

Place the tub into the position you have marked and drop a plumb line from the tub to the overflow drain. This is to ensure that if your tub overflows, the water will not soak the floor and end up damaging it.

Install the proper plumbing. These are waste drains and piping. You can then set up the tub into the position and apply silicon so that the feet of the tub remains in place.

When you are done with your installation, trim the drain pipe and overflow pipe to the appropriate length and ensure that you have places plumbers tape to the pipe threads to minimize leakages.

It is easy to enjoy a soak in your properly installed tub so ensure that you choose the correct one and follow proper instructions when installing it. Proper maintenance and regular cleaning will ensure that your tub lasts longer and retains its original color since cast iron tubs do not fade. If you have ensured that your plumbing is done well, then you are sure that no damage will come to your floors and there will be no leakages as you enjoy your bath. Then decorate your bathroom with these quirky ideas.

03 Jul 2021
various wall decor
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , , ,

10 Practical but Beautiful Curved Wall Decorating Ideas

Whether you consider it a decor challenge or custom addition to your home, Curved Wall Decorating Ideas are all you need. Just like with foyer decor, a curved wall needs special consideration in terms of decorating. Decorating a curved wall needs working with the limitation of the curved wall to bring an outstanding look. There are a number of design options that will turn a curved wall into an attractive feature in your home, making it a decor asset.

Curved Wall Decorating Ideas

a written wall decor

Prepare Adequately

Taking time to explore options for the wall helps with designing the desired outcome. Vertical decoration such as a vertical row of unframed posters or a long wall hanging will fill in the blank wall In a space with a high ceiling. Horizontal wall treatment like a row of small pictures encourages the gaze to travel along the curved wall.

Despite large picture frames not hanging correctly on a convex wall, narrow or small or frames will. The color style and scheme of decor near the curved wall can help guide your options. when you desire to pick paint colors or hang wall art to go with existing decor, select samples of nearby colors like upholstery, carpet, wood finish, cushions, and paint chips during your shopping.

Paint Treatment

To decorate a curved wall, a paint treatment might be all that’s needed. Having a saturated color that matches your décor gives the convex area more depth to enhance its architectural interest. A good decorative paint treatment, such as using a paint meant to mimic granite or concrete, could make the bare wall a focal point.

The best method for this involves using textured spray paint. If you want to downplay the curve, then choose to keep it the same color as adjacent walls. Other options also exist including painting it in broad vertical or horizontal stripes or just using it for a mural. It allows you to know in advance how the wall treatment will look.

Photos or Art

Using photos and art in matching mats or unframed photos offer many design possibilities for a curved wall. A large group of images can be tie together using the matching mats, even if they don’t have a common theme. Usually, photos and posters weigh less without glass and frames, hence making it possible to affix them to the curved wall either with double-stick tape or adhesive strips designed for mounting posters. 

Images on a wall in matching mats convert the curved wall into a gallery. It’s also possible to find wall art in curved frames. Putting one large picture centered on the wall and flanked by sconces could give the area a traditional or even more formal effect. An informal wall treatment for a curved wall is created by a casual collage of snapshots. 

Hanging Lights 

You can also choose to hang a large pendant lamp at the center of the wall. Take around one so its light will play off the wall in interesting ways. This is a good idea especially if you have low, modern shapes near the wall, such as a sofa, chairs or table that have a mid-century retro look.

Repurposing Curved Spaces

Although turret rooms may be spectacular, they’re often small by modern standards; therefore its well within reason to change what was originally a tiny room to a great bathroom or even a very useful office. But before you convert a round room, consider what’s there and what you will potentially need.

Apart from floor space, essential criteria include the number and placement of doors, closets, and windows; accessibility to plumbing lines; and the availability of open wall space.

With regards to doors, you must remember that an extra doorway might be converted into additional wall space because one exit is usually sufficient. Wall space can be necessary for bathrooms because bathtubs are traditionally mounted against walls. Many curved rooms lack continuous wall space.

However, there is a very appropriate solution: a claw-foot tub that stands alone in the middle of the room, using a shower curtain ring to keep things dry. Whatever approaches you take on your restoration, your round room will always be.

Curtain Calls

One of the most important aspects of a curved room is the drama of its surprising, focusing shape, hence it’s crucial for draperies to emphasize window curvature. While placing separate curtains on each window can work well, a single window treatment that sweeps over everything could be outstanding. Now that curtain rods usually tend to be straight, this may seem like a tall order. Continental Window Fashions can custom-make curved curtain rods.

various wall decor

Making Tiles Turn

Normally on Turret walls curve; tile doesn’t. Understanding this can avoid many problems. For the starters, the smaller the tiles used the better. 6″ is about the maximum tile width that can work successfully on a curved room.

The walls of a turret with a typical 9′ radius will always leave about a 1/4″ space behind the tile where it doesn’t sit flat on the surface, hence you’ll need more than the normal quantity of mastic to fill the gap. That’s true especially for decorative and accent pieces that require an abundance of sticky stuff in order to stay put.

The major mistake with turret rooms is to try and offset tile or begin each new row half a width over from the one below it. While this approach may be visually attractive in conventional rooms, on a curved wall tile need to march above each other in lockstep, or else parts will protrude and look horribly uneven.

 

Browse our guide to 20 gorgeous plant shelf ideas here.

 

Malleable Moldings

To install wood moldings in circular spaces is tricky since you either have to make the molding in the round with a router and bandsaw or coax a length of straight molding stock into a curve. Coaxing a length of straight molding stock into a curve is the most common option for short runs in restoration projects, and there are three basic approaches.

Kerfing – With this technique, the back of the molding is crosscut at calculated intervals, so that the saw slots or kerfs allow the wood to bend. Despite kerfing working for making both inside and outside curves, the molding has to be thick enough to carry kerfs, and the kerfs have to be shallow enough not to weaken the molding or show on the finished side.

Segmenting – This method involves dividing the molding into relatively short pieces, or segments of the curve, using angled cuts. After then building the segments up into the curve one by one, lapping the ends to make a smooth transition.

Steaming – With small, thin moldings it’s practical to soften the wood fiber with moisture and heat until it becomes pliable. Sometimes, extended soaking in hot water will fit the bill, but otherwise, the job requires steaming the process boat-builders use to form ribs and other curved components.

Built-In Seats or Storage

You can also choose to make the space welcoming with a built-in bench.  You can add a soft cushion and nice brightly colored pillows and you have additional seating for guests. Create small hidden storage under the bench seat for extra storage; this can be achieved either by making drawers or installing hinges on the seat so it can easily be lifted to reveal a trunk space.

You can paint the wall above the bench with chalkboard paint if this space is in an entry. This can serve as a message center for your family as they remove on or put on their shoes. Or even a corkboard with a funky frame better suits your decor.

You can place a quote above the bench to send everyone out the door inspired. Vinyl decals are simple and easy to apply and remove and would conform easily to a curved wall.

Paint the wall using highlighting and attractive color to show off this interesting architectural detail. Select a color that is the same hue but two or three shades darker or lighter than the other walls. This makes the curved wall and benches the focal point of the room without adding any contrast.

Built-in shelves always make a stylish display of your treasures, books, and collectibles. If the curved wall is in an appropriate section of your house, its unusual shape will also make for decorative built-in storage for wine.

a carved animal, Curved Wall Decorating Ideas

Curved Wall Decorating Ideas; Millwork

Adding millwork to your stairway increases more interest and dimension to the curved walls with the architectural details that cover up the walls without forming. In fact, this is one of the best Curved Wall Decorating Ideas.

These are the best solution for a curved stairway, since they are available in different shapes, sizes, and styles. They usually add light and character.

 

Browse our guide to entryway wall decor ideas here.

 

03 Jul 2021
batman badge
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard The Kids Room , , , , ,

10 Unique Batman Room Decorating Ideas for Kids

Every kid has a superhero character that she or he admires very much. Including their superhero character in designing their rooms might just be the best idea to make them feel safe and happy while in their room.

The first thing to do before you decorate your kid’s room with their favorite superhero touch, you must first identify your child’s favorite superhero character. If your child’s superhero character is Batman, then you are in luck.

Batman Room Decorating Ideas

Here are 10 amazing Batman room decoration ideas for your kid’s room.

Batman Room Painting Ideas

The first thing that might come into your mind while you think of decorating your kid’s room will be painting in terms of colors. While painting the room with the Batman touch in mind you might want to go for the colors associated with Batman as a character, these colors include black, yellow, blue and some orange. 

batman room decorating ideas

Batman Wall Décor

After painting the room, the next thing might be the decorations on the wall. There are a lot of things that can be used to decorate your kid’s room. For the walls go for the batman wallpaper and fix it on the walls of your kid’s room. You could also have bats decorations hanging from the wall or stickers stuck to the walls. 

Include Batman Furniture

Decorate the room with furniture that has Batman’s taste on them the furniture includes a bed, one or two chairs and maybe a chest of drawers for your kid’s clothes. You can have your kid’s bed custom made with drawings of Batman around it or you can buy a bed that has Batman signs and drawings on it. Find the amazing Batman bed we recommend here on Amazon.

 For the chest of drawers get Batman’s stickers glued on it. You can have a Batman custom made chair in the room or order one on here on Amazon. This will for sure bring out a perfectly decorated room with the Batman’s touch included.

batman badge/Batman Room Decorating Ideas

Add Batman Beddings to Match

Once you have the furniture with the Batman’s touch on them settled in the room, you can now go for the beddings. Beddings are also known as bed linens and others call them bedclothes. The beddings you choose for your kid’s room play a big role when it comes to the room décor and your kid’s health too. Go for beautiful warm beddings and in this case, Batman beddings available here .Go for throw pillows with Batman’s logo on them. The throw pillows can be placed on the chairs in the room to add color to it.

Accessorize the room with Batman Emblem Curtains.

Decorating your kid’s room is not that easy, remember it is your kid’s room and not your room. So 100% of the decoration will rely on your kid’s taste and wants. In this case, putting a flowered curtain on your kid’s Batman-themed room window will not work out. Instead, go for the Batman emblem curtains for the windows see our recommended Batman curtains here on Amazon. This will ensure that the room gets enough fresh air and sunlight too.

Add Some Rugs and Carpets on the Floor

The room’s décor will not be complete without the rugs and carpets on the floor. You can achieve this by putting a door rug on the doorstep of the room and by covering the floor with a carpet that has a Batman’s logo on it. Check out this awesome Batman room rug here. 

Make Shelves on the Sides of the Room

You can go ahead and make some shelves yourself in different designs to suit the character Batman as a superhero, or even order one here on Amazon. This shelf can act as a bookcase for your kid, as a result, the room will remain clean and tidy. You could also add quirky Batman figurines to the shelves once they’re up! 

batman room decorating ideas

Have a Batman Sign on the Door

A Batman sign on your kid’s door might turn out to be a great idea, get a Batman’s sign that speaks for your kid and hang it on your kid’s door. See here on Amazon. this idea will not only be stylish but it will also bring up a sense of belonging.

Add a Taste of Art in the Room

There are so many ways to include art in a room while decorating it. In this case, it is a kid’s room being decorated. Finding art that can be used to decorate this kind of a room can be a hard nut to crack but not impossible, you can find pictures of Batman as a superhero character, frame it and place it somewhere in the room, you can place the pictured frame on top of the shelves you made. Apart from the picture, you can hang a Batman wall clock on the room’s wall. Check out this item here on Amazon. This will not only decorate the room but will also help your kid to manage time well.

Accessorize the Bathroom too

Your kid’s room will not be completely decorated if in the bathroom, if any, was left out undecorated. You can decorate the bathroom using bathroom shower curtains, bath rugs, hooks, bathtub mat, and bath towels. Because your kid’s room should be Batman themed, so should the bathroom too. You should make sure most of the items found in the bathroom should have a touch of Batman superhero character or have a Batman logo on it.

Check out this Batman shower curtain available here. This will make the bathroom appear unique and special too. This will lift your child’s spirit and character too. This will make your child enjoy taking a bath because taking a bath will be like a whole new adventure.

Decorating your kid’s room should not be that hard. Find out how your kid would like his or her room decorated, ask them questions just to be sure. Involve them by letting them accompany you to shop for the items needed to decorate their rooms. Let them participate in the arrangement of the furniture around the room. Doing this will help them find their way around the room easily as a result, they will have an easy time locating their items without bothering other people for help.

 

Read our guide to 20 Kid’s Bedroom Themes here!

07 Sep 2020
Best Sander for Cabinets
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Reviews , , , ,

Best Sanders for Cabinets

Cabinet sanders come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. There are some that will amaze you with color and design, but the quality of their work will not be as appealing. If you’ve been out in the market for sanders, you know getting the best one is a hard task. That’s why we’ve put together this article to help you reach a decision faster. So which sanders for cabinets are the best?

Random Orbit Sander

This is the sander you are looking for if you need something reliable. It is of excellent quality and the best to smoothen your cabinet surfaces. For efficient and reliable saddening, consider this Black and Decker product.

It is made of plastic hence not heavy. The machine is straightforward to use, easy to hold, maneuver, and lasts longer. The sander has its cleaning power to keep dust and debris out. This extends the tool life.

Features

  • Has a dust-sealed switch which ensures all dust is kept out
  • Has a loop system that helps in easy sandpaper replacement.
  • It has a compact size that brings the item closer to the surface for easier maneuverability.
  • Has a high-quality speed of 14000 orbits per minute.
  • The item has included components like the sanding sheet and dust bag.
  • Includes a Paddle switch action which helps you while turning the machine on or off.
  • Requires no battery for it to operate
  • It is Light.
  • High speed.
  • Easy to use.
  • Able to eliminate dust, which increases its long life.
  • It can only be used for small sanding tasks.
  • It can only be used for small sanding tasks.
  • Cannot work in case of a power blackout as it has no battery installation

Dewalt Palm Sander

Have you ever thought of painting your cabinet after building it? This is the best sander for you. It is easy to move it from one place to another quickly as you are provided with a carrying bag.

The item is designed with a guide, which makes it easy to use and control. You can control its vibration noise in the counter vibration option, thus enabling you to have a quiet working environment.

Features

  • Lightweight design due to its composite body design.
  • Has a Stick on a pad that ensures faster changeover.
  • Touch control triggers to regulate the amount of power you need.
  • High speed of 12000 RPM for quality sanding.
  • Locking dust-port system.
  • Rubber dust boot that protects the switch from dust for long life.
  • The Dewalt comes with a dust bag, paper punch, carrying bag, and sandpapers.
  • It is sealed from dust by the rubber dust boot to ensure it has extended life.
  • Power and speed dial is easily accessed.
  • Has 8-holes hook and loop paper for quick sanding.
  • Not tiresome
  • Has a nice handle.
  • Easy to move it from different locations
  • Uses a lot of power

Classic Mouse Detail Sander

Have you been searching for a sander that could last long, remove paint from metal or plastic corners and hard to reach areas? Tacklife classic mouse detail sander comes with 12 pieces of sandpapers, connected to a 35mm vacuum cleaner tube. With the connected vacuum cleaner tube, the indoor work is correctly done.

Using the product for an extended period can cause friction and vibration, which may cause the dust container to detach. Empty the dust container after using the machine for a while.

Features

  • Tacklife classic sander uses 120 volts which provide perfect work
  • Requires no battery installation
  • The machine works low vibration
  • Has 9.8ft power cord which will help you to work with no restrictions
  • Low noise
  • Has 2kg which is not tiresome to carry
  • Long-lasting
  • You do not need any training for you to operate the machine
  • Requires a lot of power to run

5-Inch Random Orbit Sander

Tacklife sander provides an elegant environment with comfort design. The machine can easily clean tight areas with no physical sander damage. It has six different speeds, which you need to adjust according to the type of work done.

You can’t compare this machine with manual grinding as it can work with 13000 orbits per minute, thus saving time and labor.

Its 12 sandpapers make a sander to last longer while still giving you a perfect service while even removing metal paints, wood, and plastic corners. You can use the machine around your home as it produces low noise and vibration, thus not affecting anyone around you.

Features

  • Has six adjustable speed supports
  • Tacklife has 12 pieces exchangeable sandpapers
  • Can be used for indoor work
  • With 13000 orbits per minute, the machine works faster and saves a lot of time
  • The device can easily get into tight areas
  • It is comfortable to use
  • Ideal for indoor work
  • Uses a lot of power
  • Not perfect for wall sanding

Tacklife Belt Sander

Are you worried about getting your tough sander job done? Tacklife belt sander is here to make your cabinet sanding work easier. It is made of plastic, which makes it easier to use and handle. Tacklife can work on a wide range of surfaces.

It can keep the working area clean as it can collect the dust while working. The sander is accompanied by two clamps to fix the belt to work in the desired function. The machine needs to be handled well, with no pressing to avoid damage. Don’t scratch the board of the sander. It has a high speed of 15000 RPM; hence you’ll get your work done—less vibration due to its low tremor.

Features

  • A 13pcs sanding belt accompanies it. The strap is tightened to avoid belt slipping. The screw at the bottom should be adjusted at a straight line before using the sander. Over adjusting the screw may break the band.
  • 5 Amp motor. Facilitates the speed of sander, enables high-quality finish and efficient sanding.
  • It has a dust box that collects dust and is not attached to the sander which is easy to clean.
  • Two crew clamps come with fixing the belt, two vacuum adapters for dust collection and cleaning, and a guide manual for the user.
  • It is made of plastic hence not too heavy to carry.
  • Soft handle for an excellent grip.
  • Easy to use
  • The dust is very minimal while working hence good for users with dust allergies.
  • Thirteen belts to work with.
  • It is built with plastic parts that may break easily.
  • It must be handled easily due to its lightweight.
  • Uses a lot of power for it to operate efficiently

Dewalt Random Orbit Sander

Dewalt random orbit is the belt sander you need for a finesse smoothening. It is the best sander for your cabinet as it is very efficient and has a high-performance level. You will enjoy its outcome.

The sander has a 5Ah battery that can run up to a whole hour of work. Its battery can make the sander a little bit heavy after using it for some time. Dewalt random is easy to use, maneuver hold, and price considerate for the user.

Features

  • 8-hole hook-and-loop sanding paper, which is lined for sanding.
  • 5Ah battery that runs up to one hour.
  • Adjustable dust box to collect dust and is easy to clean.
  • Conveniently cordless power.
  • Sealed switch to prevent it from dust for its longevity.
  • Has 3.0 Amp motor.
  • It’s switch is sealed to improve the durability.
  • Stable control is given by the 8000 to 1200OPM.
  • The machine can run for long without recharging.
  • Over mold, which gives easy access to speed dial and power.
  • The cordless package which has lots of power.
  • Dust collection extractor connection is not to standard; hence an expensive adapter is needed.
  • 5Ah battery can make the sander feel heavy after working with it for some time.

Conclusion on the Best Sander for Cabinets

We have made your work easier for you while you need to purchase the best sander for your cabinet and other sanding services. Before deciding which machine to buy, we recommend you to look for its costs, design, power consumption, and durability.

It is not good to purchase a product that you thought would last for years and then take less than a month. The sander machines we have indicated last longer, and if you handle it with care, you will stay for an extended period before making any part replacement.

Working with a heavy machine will make your work hard as you will end up being tired, thus making it uncomfortable to use it for a long time. With vibration and sound control options, it makes environmentally friendly as it will not pollute more noise to the people around you.

Traditionally, people used to scrub the furniture using their hands, which took a lot of time, energy, and resources. Sandar has come to save all those problems as labor savings, time savings, and uses only power for it to operate. Consider using this sander for cabinets, and you will experience a big difference in your work.

03 Dec 2019
how to decorate a piano top
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , ,

How to Decorate a Piano Top: 10 Beautiful Decor Ideas

The love for music is often apparent in the way you store your instruments. It is for this reason music lovers do not shy away from keeping theirs in the house with them.

Most people prefer keeping their pianos in a place where it is visible to others; this is because it can also be a decorative idea in itself. While some people have unique piano rooms where they keep their instruments.

Therefore, keeping it plain makes your space appear dull.  Your keyboard should stand out. You can decide to keep it simple or put a little more effort into making it beautiful. There are various ways how to decorate a Piano Top.

How to Decorate a Piano Top

Decorating your instrument does not have to be very demanding financially; you can use readily available items to make your piano attractive. ‘Do it yourself,’ a method of modifying things without expert aid, can come in handy when looking for amazing crafts to help decorate your piano.

The good thing about decorative ideas is that you can always adjust them to fit your preference and mood occasionally.

How to Decorate a Piano Top

Custom Wood Designs

Your preference matters when it comes to decorative ideas; it is for this reason that custom made wood designs could come in handy.  These designs could entail beautifully written words, set according to your mood.

You can choose wooden designs that have words engraved in them or beautiful patterns, or you can go for paintings on the piece of wood.

The beauty of these designs is that the words or the art engraved in the wood speak volumes. You can also go for woodblocks that have letters that may sum up to make symbolic expressions. 

You can also make a small set of piano keys using wood. You can make this into a small size, the size of a photo frame. It can have a base to stand on, or you can place it in a way that it leans against a wall.

Light it Up

Lights attract the eyes and can make an otherwise dull space so pleasant. Led lights have, with time, gained popularity as a decorative measure.  Tiny lights in the form of string lights are a perfect idea if you are looking to make your piano glow up.

The light can be battery operated, so they save up on energy because you do not have to link them to your home’s electricity.

You can place the lights on top of the piano near the edge. Some of these led lights in string form can also be coiled into a ball and put on a tray. You can play around with the led lights, don’t make it too ordinary.

Led lights also come in different colors, so if you are comfortable with such, you can also use them.

Candle Lights

Candles are a simple and almost effortless way in which you can decorate your piano. Pillar candles and tea light candles are among the ones you can use to decorate your piano.

Your candles do not have to ignite always your candles, you can do so if need be on certain occasions, maybe the presence of guests.  Simply placing candles on top of your instrument makes it beautiful.

One can also express their creative side by making sheet music candles, in which you wrap sheets of musical notes around the candles. The wraps make the décor relevant to the art of music that the piano represents. You can use candle stands of different sizes to put your candles in and, at the same time, decorate your piano.

Booklover’s Shelf

A piano top is a perfect place for a bookworm to express themselves. You can put a stack of books on top of your piano, or you can also put them as though they are on a shelf, that is, place one after the other in a ‘standing’ position.

These books can also be musical books that can you can use to make music using the piano; this way, one does not have to go looking for them as they are a hand stretch away. Therefore, it is a decorative measure as much as it works to your advantage whenever you need to play the piano. 

 You can incorporate the use of book racks to this idea. You can add a small wooden rack at the top of your instrument with books placed inside of it. This will make your creative décor look orderly and attractive. 

Clothe it

The easiest way to decorate your piano is to throw a cloth on it. Lace, satin, burlap, or cotton, a piece of fabric always makes surfaces look neat.

You can decide to keep it colorful or make it monochromatic. The cloth can be held in place using the candles or books that count as decorative items as well. The piece of fabric will also help to keep the piano clean as it prevents dust from getting into contact with your instrument.

You can go for a cloth that completely covers the top of your instrument or a piece of fabric that acts like a runner for the piano top.  

Picture Perfect

 Your beautiful photo frames can find a perfect surface on top of your musical instruments. The pictures can be photo portraits, or you can decide to be creative and frame beautiful images, maybe music related, and use them as decor for the piano.

The photos compliment your piano, making it pleasant. You do not have to fill the whole surface with many pictures, as this only makes it immoderate. You can use a few photo frames as the photos may not be the only décor you may want on your piano.  You can even use one slightly large photo frame together with other decors.

Trust Mother Nature 

The gift that the earth gives us, plants, flowers, aside from the other benefits, health and all, they can be used well to embellish your piano. For this purpose, go for plants that are not cumbersome. Use the ones that can fit a vase or small tin. They should not be the kind that spread out so much when they grow.

The goal is to make it appealing to the eye, not excessively ornate. An example of a perfect house plant that you can use to decorate your instrument is the cast-iron plant; it is a hardy plant variety; therefore little effort is needed to keep it fresh, and it saves on space too. Use colorful flowers to break the monotony.

Always ensure your plants and flowers do not wilt as this can ruin the general ambiance of your space. 

Paint the Piano

This décor idea can help transform an old piano to make it look brand new. Give your piano pop of color using paint, and you can also be creative and let art give in. You can paint images of musical notes on your piano top or splash it with a monochromatic color of your choice

. A touch of paint and drawings is not only artistic and creative but also makes your piano very attractive. Your choice of color should go well with your house’s theme color and the general mood of your home. Painting your piano will also make the instrument to look tidy.

Lamp Shades

lamp shades go perfectly on your piano top. You choose from a variety of shapes and sizes as long as they are not too big. Have a lamp on each side of your piano, or simply have one either at the center or at one end of your piano. Lampshades give a warm embrace to your piano and to your space in general.

You can also use lights of different colors into your lampshades according to your preference. You may consider different shapes of your lampshade base; there are a variety of designs to choose from; conical, square, drum, and many others.

The good thing about this is that you can be creative and transform your regular lamps into ones that compliment your style. In being creative, you can decide to design your lamp shade base by painting piano keys on it.

Antiques

Antique items always give a command to the aesthetic nature of any space. Clocks, vases, mirrors are some of the things one can use to decorate the top of a piano. You can place clocks that have bases at the top of your piano; put it at the center position.

If your piano is against a wall, you can place a vintage mirror and lean it on the wall.  Phonograph records are also some antique equipment that you can use to decorate your piano, this way, you stay musically relevant too. You can also decorate your piano top using golden or silver antique items like vases.

One may also find small antique piano models in stores and use them as décor for your piano. You can also use vintage musical notebooks and racks for your decoration. 

 

25 Nov 2019
a well
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard The Garden , ,

How to Hide a Well Cover in Your Yard: 5 Beautiful Ideas

Well covers are an essential item for safety within the compound. They, however, are not always an attractive addition when it comes to landscaping. That’s why you need to know how to hide a well cover in your yard.

In the ancient days, people believed that wells were portals to other dimensions that were filled with magical creatures and spirits.

The need for keeping them well covered up and decorated was therefore highly emphasised.

How to Hide a Well Cover in Your Yard

Whether the cover has been built up with concrete or is made of a metal cover that lies flat on the ground, concealing it is never a difficult task.

In most cases, the well castings are extended above the ground by about 12 inches and have a waterproof cover at the top. The extended part protects water inside the well from external contaminants.

It is, therefore, essential to keep debris, dirt, and foreign objects away from the immediate environs of the well.

As you decide on a style to hide the well cover, ensure that you maintain access to the well. You also want to apply a technique that protects the water inside the well while making it less unappealing to the eye. Here are some creative yard ideas on how to hide a well cover in your yard. 

Plant Around The Well Cover

Plants are not only a creative but an easy and quick way to hide your well cover. If you go for this option, ensure that you do not plant anything right on top of or around the well cover. Instead, leave at least a 1-foot buffer around the well to allow for easy access when the need arises.

Ornamental grasses can work well for this option. Most grasses grow several feet tall and can, therefore, hide the well cover completely.

Alternatively, you can plant a flower garden around the well cap. Building raised beds around the cover is a great option too. Raised beds not only add height to hide the well cover but also keep it protected even in the cold winter season when grass and flowers aren’t growing.

Avoid adding chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers to the plants around the well. It helps to keep the water in the well clean and free from contamination.

Add Garden Structures

If using a living scene to hide a well cover is not your style, try installing or building garden structures around the area. In line with the well-theme, you can create a wooden wishing well structure that surrounds the well cover.

Leaving the wishing well open at the top will give you access to the cover when necessary.

Another advantage is that you can easily pick up and move the structure whenever you need to perform maintenance on the well. If your yard has a particular theme, consider having a structure custom made to fit in.

For instance, you can explore the nautical theme by building a wooden lighthouse structure that fits right over the well cover. For a whimsical feel, build a wood picket fence around the well cap.  Allow vines to grow along the fence to add to the decoration.

Apply Positioning Techniques

 Repositioning the items that you already have in your yard is a beautiful and simple way to hide your well cover. For starters, you can create a focal point in a different position in your yard so as to draw attention away from the well cover. For instance, you can set up a seating area around your water feature.

Alternatively, you could set up the seating area between the front of the house and the well cover. This will make the seating area more visible, thus drawing attention away from the well cover. Painting the well cover with a color that blends in with the surrounding will also make it less noticeable.        

Use a Potted Plant

Potted plants are fantastic accessories for decoration. Not only can they be moved around without damaging the plant, but they can also be used to cover surfaces that are not so pleasant. Since you cannot plant over a well cover, a large potted plant would be a great option mainly if your well cover lies flat on the ground.

Ensure that the dimensions of the pot are equivalent or slightly higher than those of the well cover to hide it completely. In case you need to access the well, simply slide away from the potted plant and place it back when you are done.  

Lay A Decorative Stone

Another unique way to hide a well cover in your yard is by placing a decorative stone on top of it. If you decide to use this method, you have plenty of options.

You could go with the traditional faux rock decorations that are formulated especially for hiding well covers.

Alternatively, you could place another yard decoration such as a garden statue, birdhouse, or fountain to conceal the cover. A stone decoration could be the backdrop for your landscaping project.

Build an Outdoor Building

If your taste lies on the sophisticated side, then this would be an excellent option for you. Erecting an outdoor structure such as a backyard gazebo will stylishly hide your well-cover.

If your cover lies flat on the ground, create an access panel to it within the outdoor building. If it is built up, you could treat it like a table in the middle.

This option will not only hide your well-cover completely but give you a convenient space where you can enjoy the outdoors. 

Put a Fence Around It

A fence not only provides protection for your well, but there are also many styles to choose from. In some states, having a fence around your well is compulsory.

If you are uncertain about the size and type of fence that will suit your well best, you can ask for advice from a well-drilling company near you.

Though you are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding ways to hide your well-cover, some actions may cause severe damage to your cover, which leads to expensive repairs and replacements. Here are a few precautions you can take when hiding your well-cover.

Don’t Plant Trees Beside the Cover

Planting a tree right above or beside your well cover can cause damage to it. Roots from bushes, shrubs, and trees can destroy the cover and any pipes that are coming from the well.

Moreover, trees can block outside access to the well, which is essential in case the need for maintenance arises. If you wish to plant a tree near your well cover, ensure that it is about ten feet away.  

Never Burry the Well Cover

Though covering the well cover up with a heap of soil sounds like a simple option, it is not a smart move at all. Burying your well-cover will expose the groundwater that is within the well to contaminants that may be present in the soil.

The goal is to keep the water that is in the well as fresh and clean as possible, and chemicals found in the soil such as pesticides and fertilizers could tamper with this.

Create a Downward Slope

When conducting your landscaping, ensure that the ground around your well cover takes a downward slope. Your well-head should be elevated to allow for proper drainage. Ensuring that the decline is long and steep enough will prevent water from pooling up around the well cover during the rainy season. 

Be Cautious When Working Around the Well Cover

Heavy equipment can cause serious damage to your wall cover. You will not only have to incur the expensive cost of repair or replacement but also risk your water being contaminated. Ensure that you apply extra caution when working around the well cover to avoid this.  

Ensure that Your Well Cover Remains Locatable

In the event of an emergency, you need to be able to access your well-cover quickly and easily. Access is also essential for basic maintenance. Therefore, as you try to hide your well-cover, make sure that you do so in a way that it can be easily located in case the need arises.

Check for Local Laws and Restrictions That Apply to Private Wells

As you try to find a way to beautify your compound, you do not want to find yourself on the wrong side of the law. There are different codes that apply to private wells in every city. Defying these puts you at the risk of landing yourself some serious fines. Ensure that you look out for any regulations that you need to be following before you start working on hiding your well-cover.

Don’t Use Chemicals Around the Well

Always bear in mind that any chemical that you use around the well is at the risk of running off and contaminating the water. To be safe, avoid using fertilizers and pesticides around the well. If you have plants around the well, going for organic alternatives is a better option.

18 Nov 2019
how to decorate a slanted wall bedroom
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor, Home DIY , , ,

15 Ideas for How to Decorate a Slanted Wall Bedroom

Sloped walls offer a burst of charm and character to any room. Designing a bedroom with such a wall can, however, be a bit of a challenge. Most people are often faced with a dilemma when deciding which styles and colors are most appropriate for such a room. Here are 15 ideas that can guide you on how to decorate a slanted wall bedroom.

How to Decorate a Slanted Bedroom Wall

Read our tips for how to decorate a slanted wall bedroom below!

Have White or Light-Colored Ceilings

Painting your slanted ceiling with a white or light color creates the illusion of space. Moreover, bright colors reflect natural light, which is excellent in case the room has small windows. Painting ceilings with a dark color creates a cave effect that makes the room look and feels smaller and closed in.

To complement the light-colored ceiling, you can add contrasting dark-colored features such as beams, but they should be limited. Painting the ceiling and walls with cohesive colors will give it a warm feeling. Ensuring that the walls are darker provides the room with warmth and depth, and clearly defines its angles. 

Add a Window Seat

Though your bedroom may have a slanted wall, the idea is to make it as cozy as any other room in the house. Squeezing in a bookcase, coffee table, and reading area may be impractical due to the limited space within the room. You need to utilize your space without making it seem crowded cleverly. A clever way to add cozy to your slanted wall bedroom is by creating a window seat.

It offers a perfect space for reading, meditating, working, and storage. It also creates a focal point for the room. You may remodel the window area and built a permanent window seat or simply add an armchair to achieve this look. A built-in bench is advantageous in that it can be used for storage, and it does not block the natural light.

Every homeowner should have a space designated for this. It should be a plan even before buying a home.

Create a Faux Canopy

This design is especially ideal for teenage girl bedrooms. The faux canopy can be created using netting or a piece of light fabric. To make it even more appealing, add lights or faux flowers to the canopy, which should; be placed on the slopy side of the ceiling. It creates an attractive look which most young girls dream of having in their bedrooms.

Be Smart with Storage

Bedrooms with slanted walls tend to have limited space. If your room is on the smaller side, consider having built-in closets, drawers, or bookshelves. Extending the storage spaces all the way up to the ceiling ensures that they take up less floor space.

Having more space to store your belongings will leave your room feeling uncluttered and open. You can even disguise the storage by keeping it behind closed doors or painting it with the same wall colors. Additionally, keep as little furniture as possible and match the furniture colors to those of your floor and walls. This technique gives the room a flawless and relaxed feel. 

Light It Up

If you have a high vaulted ceiling, .a chandelier would be grand. Chandeliers create a beautiful feature at the center of the room while clearing the floor of floor lamps, thus creating space. But this is not the only choice you have. You can creatively select a lighting style that matches your decorating and budget. Standing lamps, for example, can serve as a decoration and a lighting source all at once.

Add Texture to Your Room

Though florals and stripes can be a bit much, especially in a small slanted wall bedroom. A plain room is not as appealing. Using one or two textured pieces such as cushions or bedspreads could give room the splash of color and fun aspects that it needs. When it comes to texture, the fabric isn’t the only way. Wallpapers, textured paints and finishes can do the trick as well. Leaving a few of the beams on the ceiling exposed adds instant warmth, contrast, and texture. 

Creative Shelves

The advantage of having a sloped ceiling is that you can create shelves with a natural gradient. Shelves built at the edge of the wall that is in contact with the sloped ceiling accentuate the slope and utilize space that would have gone to waste. You can use these shelves to add décor to your bedroom or store some more items.

Use Accessories that Make the Room Look Bigger

When it comes to buying accessories such as mirrors and rags, a little luxury goes a long way. These pieces often make a small space appear much more significant.

For slanted wall bedrooms, light-colored floors are the better option. Complement this with a soft rug, preferably a bit darker than the floor itself. Such a rag gives the room structure and creates the illusion of a much larger space.

Mirrors to have this effect. They create the impression of height and breadth for a small room. To fully capture the idea, ensure that the mirror reflects an empty space rather than an occupied space such as a bookshelf or storage area. 

Add Pictures

There is no reason why you should forego putting pictures on a slanted wall. If you are unsure of how to go about it, buying specially designed hanging systems that are mounted on metal rails is the way to go. These hanging systems allow you to attach pictures and shelving securely and in any design you want.

Practical assembly kits are also ideal for mounting photographs on slanted walls. These kits allow you to secure canvas pictures or wooden frames firmly on the wall. Wall decals that are stuck on the wall can be ideal too. 

Flat Minimalist Furnishings

If you wish to make your slanted room look bigger, then minimalist furnishing is the way to go. A minimalist bed, which is made from a pallet of wood, for example, will fit onto any slanted wall and leave a lot of space above it.

Light and delicate looking furniture will leave your room less cramped and more lit up. Beds with low headboards or none and intelligent shelving systems will do the trick in this case. 

Cover the Windows Up

In most cases, bedrooms with slanted walls, as in the case of a loft, have a skylight or a window.  These are great for naturally lighting the room, but once it gets dark, the windows can take the appearance of a black hole. Installing individual screens and blinds which are held in place with taut cords or rails can cover these areas.

Heat resistant blinds can prevent the room from getting too warm in the summer. Some blinds, which come with remote control and an automatic closing function, are a worthy investment. To top it all up, they will prevent any nosy neighbors from peeping in. 

Add Movable Furniture

Movable furniture is especially useful in rooms with slanted walls. They can be easily moved to the side when they are standing in the way. Most designers nowadays design furniture which has a dual function. Beds stools and tables are designed to do more than maybe perceived at first sight.  Desks, for example, can be transformed into dining tables and sofas into beds. Such pieces are ideal for slanted wall bedrooms as they are not only reliable but also save on space. 

Incorporate a Creative Coat Rack

A creative coat rack will not only add an edge to your room but also fit right into the slanted wall. A twisted brunch would be perfect for this look. It can easily play up the slope while creating an interesting statement that can be sued as a rack for hanging coats.

Ensure that your creative coat rack is firmly fasted to the wall or ceiling to prevent any accidents from happening.

Create a Multi-Plane Mural

Another exciting and simple way to spice up your sloping bedroom is to put up a mural that extends to the ceiling. This is a perfect décor idea because it does not consume a lot of time or resources. A painting will also open up a room and give it life.

Vinyl Names

What better way to spice up a child’s bedroom or a nursery with a slanted wall than to put up the little one’s name in pain or vinyl. This fun idea will take the place of a wall hanging and is a center of attention.

It is also a fun way to decorate the slanted wall above the crib since you don’t want to place anything that could fall in that space. 

When it comes to rooms with slanted walls, the options are unlimited. When deciding on which décor to go for, do not fear to explore into varied and exotic themes.

Thou, most people, perceive rooms with slanted walls as a challenge, they can be elegant and impressive if adequately styled. With these tips, your slanted wall bedroom should be your new favorite room within the house.

So, now you know how to decorate a slanted wall bedroom!

10 Nov 2019
how long does caulk take to dry
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , , ,

How Long Does Caulk Take to Dry?

Repair is a common thing to want in a household and most of the time, some repairs need immediate attention since the parts to be repaired are frequently used. And this could be a home emergency, but for most of the parts like sinks, caulk, which is a waterproof sealant can do the magic. How Long Does Caulk Take to Dry?

How Long Does Caulk Take to Dry

The only problem is that caulk takes quite a long time to dry (for about 24 hours or more) and you probably need to use that bathroom tub in the morning but the problem is that the caulk is just not yet dry. Well here are some life hacks on how to make caulk dry faster.

Does Adding a Dry Catalyst Make Caulk Dry Faster?

For faster drying of the caulk, adding a drying catalyst to the caulk hardens the silicon in the caulk hence removing water and making it purer and more adhesive and as there is less water the caulk gets to dry faster.

So for better and faster drying results buying a catalyst at your nearest workshop and using about two drops of the catalyst would be recommended for you.

Check the Expiry Date When Buying Caulk 

When buying the caulk of your choice the expiration date should be an important thing to check since if the caulk is expired it tends to take a longer time to dry and you may probably get tired of waiting for the right time to use your bathroom tub, without ruining your caulk and you probably will blame the brand for selling you a product that clearly states that it dries fast, but that is not your experience with it.

Why not just start with fast making sure that it is fresh because the fresher it is the better the quality. So even if you have an old caulk just sitting somewhere around try, you would rather play more smart just buying a new one. 

Open the Windows of the Room Where the Caulk Is Drying 

Increasing the amount of air in the area will give you a result that will be faster than other times. Aeration is the key to this as you increase the air movement by opening the doors and windows you increase the surface area in contact with the caulk hence the caulk dries up ore faster. It is probably the cheapest and the best method for all of those who mind using some extra cash. 

Place a Fan Near the Drying Caulk

This is probably the best action for you to take if the area with the caulk is not near a  window or a door that leads to the outside where wind blows from so if the only option for you is aeration since it is the cheapest then why not try using the fan which could artificially work as wind for you and will take less time for the caulk to dry and you can get to using your repaired sinks in a shorter while than it would have taken it to dry naturally.

Use Low-Temperature Caulk 

In the stores near you could probably get the new improved low-temperature caulk which does not solidify in lower temperatures and can work well in cold places which are better than other caulk which does not work well in such conditions. It makes drying more faster and the better option if you probably do not mind spending some little extra cash to get the quality product, but the better part is that you save your time and you get more things done more quickly than with the normal silicon caulk products.

Do Not Store Caulk in Hot Environments 

Storing caulk in high temperatures as this makes it more thick and corrugated and when it gets all lumpy it tends to take longer time to dry and hence the right temperatures should be about 15 to 26 degrees Celcius and should be stored in a dry cool place for good efficiency.

Increase the Humidity 

Filling the place with humidity you have just caulked is highly recommended as the humidity works in a way as to fasten the process of drying but this is only recommended when using 100% silicon caulk. This can be done by spraying some water and then heating the room.

Buy ‘Fast Drying’ Caulk 

If you are running out of time and you want a product that will dry up fast it is recommended for you to check the product you are buying not only for the expiry date but how long the specific product will take to dry up because some caulk are time-specific and will save you the energy by buying products that take less tie to dry up because they are two types of product. Ones that take normal time to dry up and ones that are written quick-drying products. 

Dry the Area Where the Caulk Will Be Applied 

When applying the caulk the area to be applied should be wiped dry using any dry item before the caulk is applied and even after the application of the caulk this is to make sure that the caulk takes minimum time to dry up and no running water should flow to the caulked area.

Remove Any Excess Caulk 

If when applying the caulk it becomes a mess and becomes too adhesive it is advisable to scrape it more to lessen it and to allow air to come in contact with it hence making the caulk dry faster. You could use a butter knife or scrape the excess sticky caulk.

Final thoughts on How Long Does Caulk Take to Dry?

If you are wondering how you long your caulk is going to take to dry, at normal conditions it will take about 24 hours but using all the above methods you can make your caulk dry faster in about an hour with the right storage and the right temperature and checking if it is in the right condition by checking the expiry date and using the above methods.

We hope our guide to how long does caulk take to dry has been helpful!

09 Jun 2019
how to hide an unused door
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , ,

10 Ideas for How to Hide an Unused Door Beautifully

Have you ever moved into a new house that you felt deeply attached to but the only problem is that one probably ugly looking door that doesn’t fit in your description of how you want a specific room to look? Are you are trying to redesign your home into something fashionable and classy?

Or you are trying in another style but the only thing that does not fit in is this enormous unused door that you are trying to get rid of. Well worry no more for here are some solutions on how to hide an unused door.

Implement a Media Door

Have you have just gotten that extra room that you have always wanted and its everything you have dreamed of except for that unused door? Why not just change it into your media door where you can now have your bedroom or your living room into more than just a classy and elegant but a digitalized room by just placing your screen and your home theatre on the unused door.

You no longer have to worry about where to look for the right place to place your screen anymore or if you will be able to hear your music loud enough since you do not have the right place to place your home theatre. here you get to solve all three of your problems in an easy go.

Use Mirrors

Mirrors are like the solutions to most of the problems especially on how to hide an unused door.

You can always place a classy huge mirror in front of the door you are trying to hide this can solve that but one major problem you get by using this as a way of mirroring yourself out of this is that the mirror effect will only work if the mirror is reflecting not just anything but something that makes its reflection pretty too.

You may try to use the mirror but you find it difficult to know which is more ugly the unused door or the mirror that is probably reflecting something you don’t want to see every time you pass by the mirror.

Choosing the mirror is not always the best option if nothing nice is being reflected but it is the most priceless one when you have it figured out with an amazing piece.

Add a Wine Store

You are probably running out of enough space in your kitchen cabinet to store your expensive wine and as much as you try to create more space it is never enough. Why not change that extra unused door to your perfect wine storage.

It is a way of not just an of making more room, but it is a way of showing off to your friends that your place is no longer the same boring place where you always run out of drinks during watching your football matches just because you could not find enough space to put the drinks or you can also use it as a way to hide your drinks away from your kids or your wife who is pestering you on how you should stop your drinking problem. 

Make a Small Home Library

You can always create your home library in your small living room or wherever you have that unused door. Just turn it into a small bookcase where you can keep all your reading and writing materials starting from your favorite magazines to your love for novels and your addiction to writing short stories and poetry.

You no longer have to stock up your cabinets or throwing away your writing works just because you do not have enough space to place them.

That unused door may be the answer to all your problems from now on since you can always just transform It from a boring door to your creative bookshelf that talks more of your personality and makes your room more comfortable and an extra to keep your house perfectly in order.  

Add or Create Art

You could never go wrong with art starting from beautiful murals which could distract the eye from anything else and would be the best way to hide that unused door.

Murals could be anything that lights up your room so that the unused door could be used to your advantage where you can always go for art and change that boring room to something that makes everything just more brighter everything up.

You can also go for huge paintings that cover up the whole door and just shows off your artistic side and how good your taste is and that picture or mural can change the look of everything in your room since you can express yourself in it. Murals can be of all kinds even ones that can show a staircase or a garden and simple art of your favorite artist.

Add Family Pictures

Have you been running out of space to place photos of the whole family that is increasing too fast that every time there is a gathering you have to look for the family pictures and look for a place for them to be seen so everyone can know you still remember them and your memories together are special?

Make that unused door into your memory lane by placing all your pictures on that unused door.

Now no need to have pictures hanging different places or lying around in places they are not needed to arrange them in a unique ay in that they just don’t fit in but they look like the missing puzzle in your room that you have been trying to fill.

Add Curtains or Drapes

If making the unused door artistic is way too much of a work for you, could always go for the easiest way of hiding that unused door beautifully by either using drapes or curtains.

Drapes more recommended since unlike curtains which are light and are used to allow little light to pass through the drapes are heavier and hence no one can notice the door behind the drapes can remove that eyesores in the room and makes the room more elegant.

You have to be careful with the choice of color that your curtains are in order not to ruin the effect that you are trying to create and you do not just end up making everything more worse by using colors that do not blend in perfectly with the color of the walls and probably the furniture that is in the room.

So as much as curtains and drapes are a cheap and perfect way to hide that door the colors also matter a lot and whether the drapes and curtains cover the door perfectly.

Make a Splash with Paint

Painting is another of hiding an unused door. You could always paint the door same color as the walls of your room to take the focus off from it but sometimes that would just make the room look plain.

If it is your bedroom you could always paint it to match up with your pillows or the be cover just something that is not just plain or if it is your living room you could match it up with your carpet or the color of your chairs.

This will make the door disappear but make the room outstanding but painting it the same color with the wall will just make it blend in more with the rest of the wall.

Use Glass to make French Doors

As cheap as it can be French doors can be the answer to classing up that room that you have always felt was too much of a bore and why not kill two birds with the same stone by turning that unused door into a French door because glass always makes everything look ten times better especially if the door leads to an outside garden or your hot bathroom shower.

The glass can be the solution to the external door that you no longer use or an extra door to your bathroom from your bedroom.

Decorate your Home with Plants

How about your garden in your small room by bringing the outside the inside. You can always show off your gardening skills even without having a garden of your own. You can always use plants with trellis and making them cover the whole door with flowers and plants.

You can always put the flowers in vases in front of the door or plant herbs and place them on a table in front of your unused door that makes the eye grow fond of the flowers or on the good smelling herbs. 

Finding a door that does not fit your plan is common and normal but the only uncommon thing is to let the door be a way of making your room look dull because those are just some of the ways we can hide that an unused door beautifully. Also, hide your unused fireplace with these tips.

02 Jun 2019
how to temporarily close off a fireplace
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , ,

Ideas on How to Temporarily Close Off a Fireplace Without it Looking Unsightly

A fireplace forms the epicenter of every living room. A well-decorated fireplace is something that every family loves, it improves the beauty of the house, and yes, every visitor will probably be guessing towards the beholding site of such a fireplace.

How to Temporarily Close off a Fireplace

Looking for ideas on How to Temporarily close off a fireplace without it looking unsightly? Is it something you consider budgeting on? 

Well, lucky for you, we have collected 17 ideas to help you close off or decorate the fireplace and turn it to a site to behold.

Using the fireplace as a storage

A fireplace is in the living room or the kid’s room, turning it into a bookshelf helps improve the beauty of the place. Arranging the bookshelf in a cozy manner and stacking the books in a tight configuration helps improve the look. 

You can as well transform the fireplace into a shoe rack by neatly building frames in it and arranging your shoes in it.

Choosing the painting color carefully to paint in a fireplace located in your kids’ room adds beauty to the room, makes it a small paradise for them.

When the fireplace is in the kitchen, you can fit it with well decorated shelves. The shelves can be used in storing jars of grains or even recipe books.

Putting logs in the fireplace

You can store woods in the fireplace as if the idea of lighting a fire was just a matchstick away. You can stark logs of random sizes horizontally to the fireplace. The other way can be cutting logs that are the actual size of the mantel and then fixing them jointly in a tight college.

Logs can be pilled and placed horizontally, leaning on the fireplace to help in improving the theme of the house.

Perforate the logs and pace bulbs inside them works even better. A unique design to prove creativity, even more, can be the idea of placing a basket filled with firewood in the fireplace.

Decoration of the fireplace with wallpapers

Wallpapers are standard in today’s living rooms. Adding one larger and well-fitted wallpaper to the fireplace is an excellent idea to help improve the look of your room.

The wallpaper to be used will depend on the size of the fireplace and remember choosing a color that matches the paint of your room. 

Putting candles in the fireplace

Candles are perhaps a traditional method of temporarily decorating an unused fireplace. You can choose to use candles of different sizes. A mixture of short and longer candles arranged in the firebox will improve the beauty of the fire. The candles can be tied together or sparsely placed inside.

Instead of placing the traditional candles as they are, you can place a collection of candlesticks of varying heights to the firebox.

The candles add the image of actually lighting new flickering flames in the firebox, thereby improving the beauty of your room.

Open shelves in the fireplace

Shelves in the fireplace can help conceal it and bring a new look to the house altogether. The shelves are stacked with nearly anything from kids’ schoolbags, shopping bags to any other thing that can fit into it.

For a fireplace in the kids’ room, the shelves are painted using elegant colors and toys arranged on the shelves. 

Covering the fireplace

If the idea of decorating the fireplace is something that doesn’t work for you, probably it’s time you consider covering it altogether. You can hide the fireplace using decorative fabrics or a dull color according to your taste.

You can put a piece of furniture like a chair in front of the covered fireplace or put a bag of bright roses. 

Covering and sealing the fireplace will eliminate the odors and tar inside the fireplace. The resin and odor can never be removed.  

Putting a piece of art 

Do you have that memorable piece of art, and you are wondering where it would fit in your house? Well, painting the fireplace and putting your piece of art in this place will improve you’re the beauty of your home even more.  

Medals won, purchased old arts, and own made paintings all add to a perfect look when jointly selected and placed carefully into the fireplace.

Hanging a portrait on the fireplace adds more beauty. It changes the center of attention from the mantle to the picture.

Flowers in the fireplace

Well, flowers are life to every home, given the beauty they add to the house. Choosing the best color to fit your interior will even add more to this beauty.

You can choose to plant flowers inside the fireplace and regularly maintain them to improve their look. Alternatively, purchasing bright artificial flowers that match the wall painting also significantly contributes to a beautiful fireplace.

Arrange an array of mismatched pots, in many sizes and shapes, filled with ferns and hearty succulents add more beauty.

Turning the fireplace into a pet’s house

Sounds funny right? Pet’s love such places, and most often, they will be lying and sleeping inside them if it is mantle used. Decorating the fireplace and adding a soft mat on the floor of the fireplace makes it a perfect bed for your pet.

Instances of having your pet sleep on your expensive chair or bed are reduced.

After furnishing this place for your lovely dog, you can then train them and couch them to be living in this place. Try it; they’ll love it.

Make the mantel a focal point

If you don’t want to cover up the mantel or insert things into it, you can still highlight it by making it the focal point of the room. If your fireplace is showing unpleasant signs of old age, you can paint it or add new tiles to it. 

You can decorate the mantel shelf with photos, grocery, and antique pieces. Besides, you can add shelves or wall units around the mantel and painting white to improve on the beauty it adds to the room.

Place a portrait, television on top of the mantel; this will make the fireplace a site to stare at often while in the house. 

Create a Wine Rack

Who doesn’t love a wine rack that is easy to access?  A living room with a well-displayed wine rack would mean good times at home. Purchase portable wine racks that are the size of your mantel and fit it in the mantel. 

Nicely arrange your fantastic wine inside and enjoy every memorable moment you alone or with your invited guests. 

Besides the wine, you can also put in tumblers and other bar accessories at the mantle.

Lights in a fireplace

Having Christmas lights in your house doesn’t necessarily mean celebrating Christmas daily. Your fireplace is the best place to install Christmas lights nicely. 

You can put glowing bulbs inside the mantle to add beauty to your house as well. From dull light bulbs to varying colors, the choice is yours to make.

Go graphic

If the fireplace looks like a sore in the eye, you can cover it up with a colorful screen. Choose a loud graphic that attracts attention, at least to make it stand out.

This graphic screen will add a pop of pattern to the space covered by the mantle.

Junk trunks

Stack trunks in the empty mantle to achieve a vintage feel. You can use logs of different sizes from large ones at the bottom to small ones at the top.

The trunks are useful as safes to store your items and pieces of information.

Whiteout the fireplace

Perhaps the easiest and most straightforward way to decorate a non-working mantle. Saturate a white color to make space feel airier and lighter.

After painting the place white, staff it with white pieces of art or even white bulbs to increase its attractiveness.

Use the fireplace as a shadow box with a display of your favorite Object

Turk a handsome architectural model or family heirloom into the mantle and put a transparent screen to allow easy viewing.

Use a big visible object that not only feels the space but also shows the creativity of the people living in the house.

Add a vintage look summer front

Find some old summer front charm from a flea market and put it in the mantle to help improve the look of the fireplace.

The summer front used should match the room décor used for uniformity and avoid vagueness of the color selection.

Old fireplace reduces the aesthetic beauty of a room, making it dull and a sore sight to behold. To improve the image of the room, spending few dollars to decorate the fireplace works best, and the results are always amazing. A well-furnished home has the tendency of repeat visitors something that every family loves. Try out one of the solutions and you never know, maybe it is exactly what you were looking for.

18 May 2019
how to close up an unused fireplace
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , , ,

How to Close Up an Unused Fireplace – Step by Step Guide and Top Tips

Are you wondering how to close up an unused fireplace? Most of us have houses with fireplaces. Quite a number use them regularly while others have never bothered going near them, and are almost wondering aloud what they should do about them.

However, before doing anything to the chimney and fireplace, every bit of information for this kind of task must be available. 

How to Close Up an Unused Fireplace

Learn how to close up an unused fireplace with our top tips below.

If this is the case, then there is no cause for worry as there are very many ways that you can close it up. Since a fireplace is also a very important component of the house, Apart from adding beauty, it is also used for providing heat for the house during the cold season or chilly evenings.

What’s more, a fireplace should also be well maintained. However, the task of maintaining it could be more than you can handle or the rework on the house has rendered your fireplace obsolete.

Many people always find themselves in a dilemma about a fireplace that has fallen into disuse. What do you do with it? The initial thing to do is to get out everything from it, then proceed to clean it thoroughly, before covering it up with something solid. It could be a board or tile for that matter.

You will most likely cover the top permanently to block any dirt or blast of cold air from seeping through unawares. The following great tips can help you with some of the best ways for closing up a fireplace that is no longer in use.

How Long Does it Take to Close Up an Unused Fireplace?

Before determining how to go about your chimney, there is a need for you to ascertain how you will handle it. If you will close it temporarily or permanently for good.

Ways to Close Up an Unused Fireplace

Get the Chimney Bottom Insulated

After capping the chimney top, the next step is to look for a way of insulating its bottom. However, it all depends on what you want. Whether to insulate it on a permanent or temporary basis.

When it comes to the former, do use an inflatable plug, which in this case is done internally on the flue. Afterward, they are inflated to prevent any air from going in or leaving.

If you want it permanently insulated, then you will use an insulation foam plug, putting it at the chimney bottom then plastering it to seal it permanently. 

Turn it in to Book Shelf

Your bookshelf might be getting full this time, thus, you might not know where to store the extra books. Look no further as your fireplace can be converted with much ease into a bookshelf where you can put forth your extra collection. The books can be arranged neatly by stacking or you can construct a small shelf. 

Decorative Purposes

One of the best ways for closing up any fireplace that has fallen into disuse is by decoration. Using neat piles of logs. It will always give an impression of lighting the fire. You can arrange the pieces of logs randomly and horizontally. 

If you want the room to look more appealing, arrange extra pieces on either side of your already stacked pile. Throw in some extra basketful of bundles of chopped firewood. Moreover, it is also possible to use decorative items such as sculptors, candles, or figurines will cover your unused chimney just fine.

Suppose the fireplace is in the children’s bedroom, you can paint it with their favorite colors and put some additional toys, which they love to make it look cute. 

Using a Sealer for your Fireplace

This sealer could be a balloon chimney, and comes in a variety of sizes, and is dependent upon what is known as a flue.

You could also go use the rectangular shaped balloon, which works by pressing itself on a damper. Covers for chimneys come in different sizes and names. They include. Fireplace or chimney pillows, fireplace or flue blocker, stopper for the draft, and plug for the fireplace. 

Pillows are very important in reducing any external noise that may come through the chimney, pillows may also prevent any droppings or debris especially birds, which would have nestled inside from falling off into your house.

Another way is using a decorative cover that has been fitted at its mouth. It works best for those people who would want to continue using the fireplace but do not feel inclined to uninstall.

Displaying Seasonal Items

You can turn your unused fireplace into a perfect display for displaying different decorations when celebrating some of the most important events in your life.

Display Mirror

Many at times, you might not feel like cleaning your fireplace regularly even though you no longer use it. This whole process could be tiring. Instead of lamenting, you can get creative by strategically putting a mirror at the opening, just for aesthetic value. 

How to Cap off Your Chimney with an Airbrick

The main purpose of an airbrick when closing off your chimney is to allow proper air circulation between that particular room and the chimney from the top, through channels such as flue. Airbricks will also prevent any moisture to accumulate, and around the areas of deposits hence, making them damp.

Another way is covering it using a cowl that has been ventilated. It allows for sufficient circulation of air. When you want to insert the frames, and would like to lay down your bricks, and all you have is a sizeable fireplace then you will only need to use about two of them.

They are then fixed together with the frames overlooking either the door or it could be a window inbuilt through using the bricks. 

The two are later enjoined and are then screwed together internally. 

Laying down the Bricks   

When in the process of laying down the bricks inside, then set it off about half inches from the plastered area. Nonetheless, for the best possible outcome, let the air brick protrude a bit from the plastered areas. 

A leveler is most important and will ensure the whole process is sufficient enough and that it is also standard. Furthermore, place the airbrick right in the center. It should be in a lower position not be obstructed by any skirting.  

Applying Render on the Already Bricked Fireplace

The next crucial step after the brickwork is to rake its joints a couple of millimeters. This gives ample opportunity to apply the render. Thereby, becoming very strong in the process and being able to carry its whole weight. 

Any rendering process will involve the evenly spreading of both sand mixture and some cement on both the chimney and fireplace bricks, using the trowels normally used for plastering. Alternatively, you could also render using the trowels for laying down bricks as well.

Do not also forget to apply a leveler to ensure everything is in its rightful position. If you come across any depressions, then what you do is to add a little bit of render until it becomes evenly spread.

Smoothening the Surface that has Been Rendered

Continue smoothening the already rendered platform until it smoothens out, then use afloat, which is either made of wood or plastic. Give the render ample time to harden out before starting the smoothening process.

To ensure that the process is ready, the moment you move the float around the rendered surface, it does not peel off, and every pinhole ends up filling up with all that has been left behind by the rendering process.  

Continue rubbing it steadily with a little bit of firmness in a move that is circular, while gently applying pressure for the smoothest surface. Generally, this should take about 3 millimeters below the level of the plastered area.

Proceed to gently rub the new surface like before. And for such a task, a nail would be better suited, as it gives a better finish for applying skim. Another simple term used for plastering.

Applying Plastering Techniques and Some Finishing Touches on the Closed Fireplace 

When in the process of purchasing skim, do not ever worry about the one that is most suited for your task. The majority of dealers can always advise you accordingly. Therefore, when plastering the fireplace, always remember to mix the skim until it becomes creamy.

Then go ahead and plaster with the help of a trowel specifically meant for plastering.

After completing the plastering process, let it dry for a few minutes then smoothen it with the trowel again. This should be done in the shortest time possible.  This is just to erase any marks from the rendering process when you wait for the plaster to harden.

Since the whole process is very delicate, you must dedicate ample time to ensure that the whole process runs smoothly and is completed in time.  

After the process has been completed, you can put now put skirting boards in their rightful place. The air brick will also be covered using a grill. They come in many forms of plastic models or brass design. Besides, there is always an option for screwing or gluing them. And at this point, you will put a cap on top of your flue. 

Steps on Blocking a Fireplace    

Start by measuring its mouth then calculate the number of bricks needed for the task at hand. 

Use a ventilation cover or any other related material to seal off the chimney. Thirdly stack up the bricks at the mouth. The next step is to fix the airbrick in a low position so as not to be obstructed by anything. Besides, the air-brick should protrude externally and slightly. It should also be on the same line with other surfaces on both sides. 

Tie in the bricks on other surfaces using frame cramps. After the new bricks have dried, you can now apply to render on the surface and make sure that it is lower than the flush face of other surfaces. This will create more space for plastering.

After the render has completely dried up, and for you to get the desired outcome, you can now apply to skim as a finisher and to create a surface, which is breathtakingly smooth.

Install a Door and Make it a Store

If you are finding so cumbersome to clean the fireplace now and then, you can install one of those decorative or sliding doors at the opening of the fireplace. It can even act as a place for storing some of your things.

Clean out Sealing Method

You may find that some chimneys can be cleaned externally from the house. Others can be done internally through the basement in the home. If you are to do it externally, then you will have to loosen the cap used for cleaning out the chimney. This allows excess moisture to seep through and go out.

On the other hand, you might want to insulate any corresponding horizontal barrier, with the help of a vapor, which is a line internally. It makes your house not to lose any further air.

In case you are doing the cleaning down in the basement, then you should tape before completely sealing the areas being cleaned to prevent further circulation of air from either going in or coming out.

That’s it on How to Close Up an Unused Fireplace

A caulk of beaded butyl rubber can also be used to seal off all three sides of the chimney from the top. Thereafter, cover it with a metal piece, so that together with the butyl rubber are in the same position.

Gently press the metal until it completely goes inside of the caulk bead. The main reason for this is because is to make sure that no rainwater leaks inside.

However, the sealing should not be so airtight as to prevent moisture in the house from escaping into the atmosphere, which might lead to serious decay. After replacing the cap for the chimney, it is now time to close your fireplace damper permanently.

Now that everything has been completed, you can rest easy as your problem has been solved.

There are also many fireplace alternatives. An ethanol burner has been designed to facilitate the easy transition of existing traditional fireplaces into clean-burning bio ethanol fireplace. Simply insert, ignite and enjoy.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to how to close up an unused fireplace!

03 May 2019
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , ,

How to Hang Two Curtains on One Rod

Windows are one of the essential elements of a home. These structures not only allow natural light to get into a room but if well covered, they can be an extension of your interior design.

In this post we are going to cover the following methods for hanging two curtains on one rod:

  • Double Layered Curtains
  • The Three Layered Curtain Style
  • The Bungee Cord Method
  • Using Double-Sided Hooks
  • Add A Scarf Valance

The best way you can achieve this is by layering curtains. If you are stuck with having to use one curtain rod for the desired window treatments, you will have to learn how to hang two curtains on one rod to achieve the layered look.

Here are some easy tips that you can follow if you are unsure of how to layer curtains using a single rod.

How to Hang Two Curtains on One Rod

Double Layered Curtains

In window treatment, layering refers to using more than two-panel pairs of curtains to dress your windows. Commonly, people layer two different curtain styles. In most cases, this involves combining the prominent main curtains which have solid patterns or colors with sheer curtains.

To achieve this look, slide one panel of the main curtains onto the rod

The main curtains are placed to the right and left edges of the curtain rods while the sheer curtains occupy the middle part. This kind of placement brings out a chic and uniquely balanced style. The panels placed at the end of the rod often appear as if they have been placed on a separate rod and also offer protection from excessive sunlight.

To achieve this look, slide one panel of the main curtains onto the rod. Move it to the very end to create space for additional panels. After that, add one or two of the sheer panel on to the rod. The number you add depends on your taste. Finally, slide the remaining main panel and then adjust the panels to make them look neat. 

Using this four-panel style will, however, limit your ability to close your curtains. The sheers, which are placed in the middle of the rod, restrict the movement of the main curtains. The sheers you select, therefore, determine the amount of light that enters the room and the level of privacy that you get to enjoy.

Choosing sheers that have prints or lace patterns can help to filter out the light and improve the level of privacy within a room that has this kind of window treatment. 

Alternatively, you can substitute the sheer curtains with white curtains or light-colored ones that complement your main curtains. This will help to preserve the room.s privacy while maintaining the chic style of a light-colored mid-area. If you opt for this route, you will have little or no natural light streaming into the room. 

The Three Layered Curtain Style

This method involves layering six curtain panels with three styles rather than the conventional two styles with four panels. With this window treatment method, You can select a curtain styled with a solid color to anchor at both ends of the window.

The second curtain style should have a fun pattern that features the color of the anchor curtains.

Finally, incorporate a sheer curtain for the third style. A white or light-colored curtain that complements the other two curtain styles can be used as well. 

When arranging the curtains on the rod, start with the solid colored panel. Slide it onto the rod and then push it to the very end to create space for the other panels. The patterned curtain should follow.

When you have done this, add the two sheered panels followed by the patterned panel and finally, the solid colored panel at the end. Adjust the panels accordingly to achieve a neat final look. 

The result will be a beautiful gradient of colors and textures. This type of design is best suited for large windows that have an extended width. Applying this method to a small window may make it look squeezed and untidy. 

Bungee Cord Method

When you hear of bungee cords, thrill-seekers who jump off bridges or cliffs often come to mind. The cords that we are referring to in this case are, however, much smaller and less powerful. B

Bungee cords are made of a thick elastic cord that hooks at both ends and is covered with colorful fabric or plastic material.

The hooks can be used to lock onto each other or latched onto other surfaces. 

Because they come in a wide range of sizes and they can withstand stretching without damage, bungee cords are perfect for use on windows.

To utilize bungee cords to create a layered treatment for your windows, you need two pairs of curtain panels. The first pair should be standard and the other sheer.

When creating a layered look using bungee cords, place both of the sheer curtain panels on the bungee cords. Slide the cord through the openings where you would typically slide a rod to achieve this. After you have done this, attach each of the cord ends to the window brackets using the hooks that are provided.

Ensure that the cord is well secured and adjust the sheers to make them look neat. Then place the standard panels on the rod and hang it in front of the cord. The cord will serve as a second rod without the actual need for one. 

Using Double-Sided Hooks

Another smart way to achieve a layered look using a single rod is to use double-sided hooks. Though these are often used in bathrooms for shower curtains,  they can be adopted in other rooms as well.

Double-sided hooks have two hooks on opposite sides, which can be used to hold two curtain panels at the same time. When selecting the hooks, ensure that you go for a design that can be able to withstand the weight of the curtain fabric without getting damaged. 

Add A Scarf Valance

If you wish to layer your curtains with a scarf valance, select one that has a long and flowing fabric. After you have slid your curtains on to the rod, simply drape the valance over the rod to give your window more design depth and beauty.

With these design tips, your curtains will add style to your room and leave your interior a sight to behold. Also, learn how to combine your curtain colors and carpet.

15 Apr 2019
how to paint a ceiling without roller marks
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , , , ,

How to Paint a Ceiling Without Roller Marks

Though it is the last place people look, a ceiling can massively change a room. Ceiling designs and paints is a vital part of designing the house and setting the mood as much as the floor and the walls.

Some designers even term the ceiling as the fifth wall. And homeowners are now adapting to bolder color paints for their ceilings to compliment the floor and the walls. 

Besides a unique ceiling design, your house design can also stand out due to the paint used or even the finishing. Painting on your ceiling is an excellent DIY project that saves you the extra expense. However, a bad final look may destroy the entire look or intended purpose. 

How to Paint a Ceiling Without Roller Marks

To avoid this leaving rolling marks on a ceiling you should ensure that each coat is rolled in the opposite direction and suitable drying time is left between coats.

Read on as we go through a step to step guide on how to paint a ceiling as well as offer top tips to ensure you paint like a pro.

How Do You Prepare your Ceiling for Painting

Every painting project requires preparation, be it in cleaning or setting up a work station, before painting the ceiling observe the condition and shape and size of the ceiling. This analysis will help you find out exactly how much paint is needed as well as time spent on the project. 

Should You Cover or Remove Furniture from the Room

The first and most crucial preparation step before painting your ceiling is securing your furniture by covering the furniture or removing them from the room. Remove fragile and easily breakable items. For the heavier items in the room use an absorbent drop cloth, it is unavoidable to have small splatter no matter how careful one is during the project. 

Additionally, you will also need to cover light switches and plugs by using a painters tape.

1# Cover the Floor

The second important preparation step is covering your floor. You will need a drop cloth or tarp and a painters tape. Secure the fabric with the paint around the edges to prevent leakages or movement of the fabric. 

2# Remove any Light Fixtures on your Ceiling

This may require help from a professional, hiring a professional to remove light fixtures before painting not only ensures your accessories are safe but also ensures you are secure from any electrical malfunctions during the project. 

2# Wash your Ceiling with Sugar Soap

Now that your floor and valuables in the room are covered, the next vital preparation stage is washing your ceiling. Whether you want to revamp the look in your ceiling by changing the ceiling paint color, or maybe your ceiling is in bad condition and urgently requires painting, it is paramount to clean the ceiling. Washing with sugar soap and solution helps remove dirt, oil, and dust, ensuring the new coat adheres to the ceiling, subsequently providing a fine and long-lasting finish. 

Tip: When cleaning the ceiling, squeeze the water from the sponge or mop to avoid drips. Using too much solution may end creating a big mess, destroy or worsen the condition of the ceiling and also take more time, additionally before using the water solution dust off the ceiling and remove cobwebs.

Other alternatives to the sugar soap include a mixture of vinegar and water, diluted dishwashing soap, or organic cleansers. 

4# Sand down Bumps and Lumps on the Ceiling

For a smooth and finer look, you need to sand down bumps on the ceiling, but before sanding buy a lead testing kit, lead-based paints emit dangerous lead dust that is harmful to both children and adults. 

What Safety Measures Should You Adhere By When Painting

Safety is vital when it comes to painting projects; inhaling some paints may be poisonous while using the wrong equipment may cause other physical injuries. To avoid these, here are essential safety measures to consider before embarking on a painting project. 

1# Use a Stable Ladder

We cannot stress the issue of safety enough, but one way to ensure you avoid any falls or accidents is by using an adjustable and stable ladder. There are several types of ladders, but the best ladder when painting the ceiling is the step ladder. This ladder is not only stable but allows you to access the ceiling surface without worry of the ladder slanting. 

After attaining the best ladder for the job, another important safety measure is:

Do not carry any painting equipment’s when climbing the ladder. Carrying painting tools when climbing the ladder may tip the ladder, which may lead to a fall. Prepare your workplace and position your equipment to ensure your tools are easy to reach.

2# Use Protective Gear

Once you have your workplace in order and have set up your ladder, the next safety measure is wearing protective clothing. Have your gloves on, the safety goggles, and the dust mask. Remember, before embarking on the painting process. You need to sand and clean the ceiling. 

You also need a respirator, and this is most useful in poorly ventilated areas. Also, always open the windows and doors, some paints have chemicals that may be harmful when inhaled in large amounts. Once you are through, do not stay in a freshly painted area, allow the paint to dry as it may cause harm to children, adults as well as pets

3# Avoid Smoking When Painting

Smoking while painting is not only a danger to your health but the overall safety of the entire household. 

Store the Paint Away from Any Heat 

Placing your paints near areas such as the fireplace or the water heater may cause a fire hazard, always have a fire extinguisher close by. 

How to Paint a Ceiling without Roller Marks

Now that you are well equipped with a preparation process to ensure your work is not only easier but neater, you also have a guide of essential safety procedures to adhere to. The next and final step is painting your ceiling and ensuring you do not leave any roller marks. 

Below are essential pro tips to ensure you do not leave roller marks after painting your ceiling. 

1# Avoid too Much Paint on the Roller

This is a rule of thumb when it comes to any painting project, having too much paint on the roller will cause a musty and unattractive look. To solve this, always ensure you ensure your roller edges do not have excess paint by patting the excess paint back to the paint container. 

However, you could also use a thin layer of paint on the roller to smoothen out areas with roller paints. 

2# Use a Thick Napped Roller

You read that right, and maybe you are wondering how will I manage to avoid too much paint on the roller if you use a thick nap roller. A simple technique when using the thick napped roller is using the first coat of paint on the roller and re-painting before dipping the roller to the paint container. This way, you can smoothen your look and avoid roller marks. 

3# Avoid a Semi-gloss or Gloss Paint

Semi-gloss and gloss paints have a higher sheen, which makes the marks more visible instead get flat sheen paint. The flat sheen paint hides any imperfections while gloss paints make it easier to see any flaws.

4# Paint the Second Coat in the Opposite Direction

In any painting project always ensure you achieve maximum coverage, and this is achieved in two ways, the first method in achieving maximum paint coverage is using two coats, paint a thin first coat and allow it to completely dry, then paint the second coat. This is most effective when painting walls.  

The second way to achieve maximum paint coverage is by painting the two coats in a different direction. This is particularly effective when it comes to high areas in the house, such as the ceiling.

Let’s say you painted the first coat from right to left, ensure you paint the entire ceiling in this formation. The second coat should be painted in the opposite direction from left to right. 

5# Use an Airless Spray for the Final Touches

The last tip on the list is spraying the ceiling with an airless spray. The spray gives your ceiling a fine and smoother look. Spray your ceiling after completing your two coats and allowing them to dry, and ensures your ceiling retains its texture.

Take Away on How to Paint a Ceiling Without Roller Marks

Let’s take a look at some of the top tips on our list, always paint the second coat in the opposite direction, and use an airless spray for a smoother finish. Painting a ceiling though the time-consuming project is worthwhile and allows you to change up your house depending on your taste without breaking the bank. 

The most important thing to remember when making a purchase is to always invest in quality products. Safety is also crucial, and finally, do not be afraid to get started it. Painting your ceiling for the first time out may not turn out or might not have turned out as you expected. However, with these tips, you are sure to learn and perfect your skill.

08 Apr 2019
a white chair on a brown carpet/What Colour Paint Goes With Brown Carpet
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home Decor , , ,

What Colour Paint Goes With Brown Carpet? Best Color Combos and How to Decorate Them

Do you find yourself attracted to color brown, and maybe you have a brown couch, brown curtain, and now a brown carpet? Though it might be your favorite color, combining it with other colors brings out a lively feel and look to your house.

So, What Colour Paint Goes With Brown Carpet?

Unfortunately, not every color goes well with color brown, and combining two wrong colors might become a big disaster and give your house a distasteful look. To avoid this, it is essential to find out the best color combos and how to combine the different colors with brown to decorate your house.

What Colour Paint Goes with Brown Carpet?

Different Shades

There are several shades of brown available, to help you understand how best to combine the colors the first step is knowing the various shades available: red-brown, walnut brown, wood brown, taupe, rosy brown, khaki, chocolate brown, cocoa brown, beaver, raw umber and desert sand.

These color shades come in different variations of either light, dark or neutral. 

Color Psychology

Colors can influence how people feel, behave, and can also communicate a person’s character or mood. Brown is a solid and earthy color; people who love color brown can be described as humble, resilient and dependable. On the flip side, the same color can evoke feelings of sadness, loneliness, or emptiness, especially when used widely. 

When it comes to designing a house, brown brings a sense of openness, warmth, comfort, and safety in a hose. However, to avoid the feeling of loneliness in a room, it is essential to use different color combos. 

So Which Colours Go Best With Brown Carpet

White

White brings out a luxurious look in a house and, when combined with a dark brown, creates an exquisite feeling to your home. Combining these two colors also brings out a welcoming atmosphere. If you have a brown carpet, consider painting part of your walls white or using white curtains or drapes. 

Yellow

Imagine this; you have been busy all week, running errands, studying for an exam, or even running your business. It’s finally that time of the week you have been waiting for, the weekend, you need to re-energize and you think of going for a short holiday to your favorite destination.

Why not save that money for the holidays by turning your house into the relaxing haven you have always wanted. Pairing brown and yellow gives your home a radiant yet relaxing mood, and when used correctly, brown and yellow will influence the energy you need to start that new week. 

You could paint yellow on some of the bookshelves, maybe even use yellow furniture. This combination brings out the best in you by ensuring you remain grounded but still evoke energy and action. 

Gold

Gold has a bold and luxurious feel to it, but combining this shiny color with the earthy brown brings out the best in all worlds. You not only get to achieve a luxurious feel, but you create a unique feel to your house. A combination of brown and gold brings out a lively, refine, and charming look.

If you have a brown carpet, then you could achieve this luxurious look by painting gold undertones on the furniture, gold, and brown combination are best when placed side to side. 

Blue

A brown carpet or furniture gives off a rustic feel to your house, but you do not have to give up your favorite color to achieve a modern look. With a brown color combining the carpet or house décor with blue elements brings the perfect balance between the rustic and contemporary features in a house. 

To achieve this unique modern look, you could paint your walls in shades of blue. The different shades, however, are dependent on the tone of the brown. For instance, for a dark brown carpet using sky blue paint on your wall, is perfect.

Additionally, dress up your house in these color combinations, for instance, you could have a blue ottoman, or have blue and white pillowcases around the house. 

Orange

Just like brown, orange is warm, unlike brown, which is sometimes associated with loneliness, orange is lively, energetic and draws attention to a room. The color orange is also associated with autumn making it a perfect way to style up your house in different seasons. 

A combination of orange and brown like yellow and brown helps you to keep grounded, by maintaining the solid earthy features, while orange brings out excitement and enthusiasm about life. To achieve the perfect balance, you could paint use orange on one wall in the house. Also use orange curtains, lampshades around the bedroom. 

Fuchsia

This color brings out sophistication, energy, and personality in a room. This color combination is more feminine and brightens up a room. To achieve the sophisticated yet classy k in your house, add fuchsia decorative items in the house. 

Another color that goes well with fuchsia and dark brown is a lighter shade of brown, use a lighter shade of brown to accessorize and decorate your house. 

Rose

A light shade of rose marries well with a dark shade of brown, maintaining the warm and cozy feeling in a room. Suitable for both open areas such as the living room, as well as the more private spaces in the house, such as the bedroom. 

The blend, when set correctly in a living area, brings out energy a luxurious look. This combination is perfect if you are a laid back person but still want to enjoy an energetic house.

On the other hand, the color combination brings out the cozy warm feeling in the bedroom, and with proper lighting creates the best ambiance to lay yourself to rest. 

Rose can be used on the walls, and the outcome is a seamless harmony between the colors, you could also use rose drapes. 

Beige

A color combination of a navy blue, brown, and beige brings out a cozy feel to a room; this combination is particularly ideal for a smaller place, with limited natural light. Brown gives the room a grounded feel while the beige and blue complement the room by bringing life and character. 

You could paint the walls beige, and use navy blue on the throw pillows in the rooms, the secret to perfect color combination is understanding the role each color plays, and how they will blend to bring out a perfect outcome. Using small portions of some colors also changes the look. So remember, you do not have to use large amounts of certain colors. 

Other color combinations include brown and black.

  • Walnut brown and burgundy.
  • Mahogany and lacquered green.
  • Purple, gold, and dark or earthy brown.
  • Orange, chocolate brown and cream
  • White, brown, and navy blue.
  • Army green and brown

My Top Tips for Decorating with Brown Carpet

Take advantage of holidays and different seasons to style up your house in different colors, buying three or four different carpets may not be a wise financial plan, but why not use the little items such as the shelves, the throw pillows, the curtains to bring out the best in a room. 

Another way to combine brown is by understanding the different color shades, brown comes in light and dark tones, while darker shades are preferred for carpets, and lighter one for clothes. However, if you are using a lighter shade of brown such as beige, then using white paint on your walls or house accessories may not bring out the best instead use colors such as orange. 

Do not shy away for making use of three or even four colors, while your furniture could be yellow, and your carpet brown, why not use white or a lighter shade of blue on other parts of the house.

Things to Consider When Combining Colors

House designs, are you looking for a modern or rustic house design. Colors play a large part in influencing the mood in the house.

Though most people have favorite colors, sometimes we are attracted to colors that communicate our feeling at a certain time. 

Area of the house, for example, when decorating the bedroom, you need to use calm colors, using a color such as yellow or orange may not be ideal. Additionally, using a color combination such as brown and fuchsia in a playroom is perfect as it evokes playfulness. 

Season, if you are all about bringing out the different seasons in your home or using different themes around the year. Then consider combining colors, have one primary color if you love brown, then this is your main color, work around colors the blend well with the said color, ensuring you avoid unnecessary costs. 

Decoration accessories to use, besides painting the wall, or using drapes, throw pillows, or even lampshades, other accessories used include flowers and flower vases and furniture, to mention a few. Make use of items around the house to bring out your desired look. 

The list above shares some color combinations that blend well with brown, but this might not be your ideal combinations, do not shy always from trying out the different color combinations to find out what appeals best to you. 

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to what colour paint goes with brown carpet.

01 Apr 2019
how to paint staircase walls
0 Comments By Victoria Shepard Home DIY , , , ,

How to Paint the Staircase Walls Neatly Without Ruining the Staircase

After years of saving and working, you are finally a homeowner. Once you move in, you discover, there is more work than you expected in the house, some few design adjustments to suit your taste, and one such task is repainting your home.

With a little help from your friends and family, in no time you will paint your walls and your ceiling, but one hurdle when it comes to how to paint staircase walls.

The staircase is your access to your bedroom from your living room, to the guest room or even the bathroom. After a few tries, you finally manage to paint your staircase, and after the project, you take a look at your work, it looks nice, but there is a missing piece.

You should have also painted the staircase walls and preferably before the staircase.

How to Paint Staircase Walls

There are several ways to decorate the staircase walls, Aside from using decoration items such as pictures to decorate your staircase wall, another simple and cost-effective method is painting the staircase walls. Painting your staircase walls brings out a stunning view, but how will you go about this without destroying the staircase?

To help you tackle this question, join in, we go through tips and tricks on how to paint the staircase walls without destroying the staircase.

Use a Quality Roller

You have invested on premium paints, but that’s not all it takes to have a neat final look. In addition to quality paint, you need to have a quality roller, traditional painting items though cheaper leave splatters, in turn, increasing cleaning time. To avoid this, use a good roller. 

Moreover, avoid putting too much pressure on your roller as it may also leave unwanted marks on the wall. 

One of the best rollers in the market is the PaintStick EZ Twist. Unlike traditional paint roller, this roller is designed to make your project easier and faster by providing a twistable handle giving you better control and is also easy to clean.

Begin Painting from the Highest Point

Painting can be a daunting experience if you do not know the basics when it comes to painting. For instance, when painting a wall, you need to paint from the top to bottom, this prevents roller marks and uneven finishes. 

To avoid repeating your coats for a finer finish, always ensure you paint from top to bottom. But let the first coat dry before applying the second coat in the same direction, in case you notice an uneven finish on your wall, wait until it is dry and repaint with a thin layer.

Have a Wet Paper Towel Close by

No matter how careful you are, it may be hard to avoid touching the staircase with damp paint or even experiencing leakage with the drop paper. To reduce the cleaning time, have moist or wet towels nearby.

Cover the Stairs and Floor with a Drop Cloth or Tarp

You could make use of old fabric laying around the house, but remember you do not want to go back to working on your staircase because of poor coverage. Invest in a quality tarp or drop cloth; in case the stairs are carpeted, use a tarp and tape down for more security.

Use an Extension Pole

A ladder might be risky and hard to use in some places, but you do not have to worry about painting your staircase wall half way, use an extension pole to reach to the highest places on the wall. When purchasing an extension pole, lookout for a light pole and safe when lengthened.

This not only ensures you have an easier time when painting, but you are safe. 

Use the Appropriate Ladder

However, if the area is high and using an extension pole might not work, find the right ladder for the job. The best ladder when painting the stairway wall is the platform ladder.

The platform ladder is stable, safe, and functional and is easily extended to suit different lengths.

A platform ladder is also functional on both indoor and outdoor projects, and one such ladder is the Louisville platform ladder. 

Use Water-based Paint

For any painting project to be a success, investing in premium paint is paramount and more so necessary to avoid damaging or running the stairs. Water-based paint is ideal for the stairs as it not only dries fast, but it also does not need chemicals during cleanups.

Additionally, consider purchasing paint with premier build it, premier is used to prepare a surface for the paint, and is most useful on a newly painted wall.

However, for already previously painted wall, to ensure the paint is long-lasting, use premiered build in paint. These paints also withstand wear and tear, making the project durable. 

Remember, the point is to avoid more painting projects on the staircase walls, thus essential to use quality paint. 

Preparation Process before Painting the Staircase Wall

For the entire project to be a success, it is essential to prepare to avoid taking breaks, subsequently spending more time and money.

The first preparation stage is observing the condition of the wall, find out whether there is crack on the wall, how severe is the crack, and I may affect the outcome? 

If the cracks are small, fill them in before the painting day. However, if the crack is bigger, you need to contact the house safety department to find out how severe or dangerous the cracks are. 

Now that you have filled up the crack and have received a go-ahead from the house and safety department, the next step will be cleaning the wall. The walls collect dust, dirt, and cobwebs and may affect the outcome or texture of the wall.

In case your wall has writings, you may need to use diluted dishwashing soap solution, you could also use a mixture of vinegar and water. Allow the water to dry out before starting the project. 

Sand Bumps on the Wall

Painting over an uneven wall, causes a poor finishing but may also cause spillage, in turn, ruining the staircase.

Caution: before sanding the wall, buy a lead test kit to avoid getting in contact with the poisonous metal, also avoid sanding every part for the wall and only focus on the uneven parts.

Mask Light Switches and Sockets

Using a painter tape, mask your light switches and plugs, though easy to clean, leaving your light switches open increases your workload, avoid this by using a painters tape.

Tips to Paint like a Pro

Paint during the Dry Weather or Turn on the Fan 

To achieve a neatly painted staircase wall, avoid painting during the cold weather, cold weather means drip, which takes the paint more time to dry. However, if you have to paint during the cold season, there are several measures to ensure your paint does not drip. 

Consider during the fan or increasing the house temperature, this technique also works in humid areas such as the bathroom.

Another way to beat the cold weather is by using lightweight paint, as earlier on, mention water-based paint dries fast, making it ideal for the walls and ceiling. Additionally, always take time when painting, use a thin first coat and allow it to dry; this might take time but will ensure you achieve a fine look. 

Plan for Textured or Smooth Wall

To paint like a professional, you need to distinguish between a textured and a smooth wall. If your wall is textured, then you will need a thick napped roller.

A thick, napped roller absorbs more painting, ensuring your wall is evenly painted with minimal errors. 

However, using a thick napped roller on a smooth wall may affect the outcome by showing roller marks. 

When buying your roller, explain your wall to your salesperson, but, if you are not afraid to use the thick napped roller.

A simple technique is, after applying the first coat, repaint on the wall without dipping the roller on the paint container. This helps smoothen out the excess paint on the wall. 

Keep your Color Paint Consistent by Boxing 

The final tip on how to paint like a pro is boxing your paint, but first, you need to find out exactly how many gallons of paint you will need for your project. And instead of using one paint container at a time, professional recommends mixing the paint in one container.

This helps maintain the consistency of the paint throughout the project. 

Finally on how to paint staircase walls

Painting no longer needs to be a hurdle, or costly, with a few tips you can now achieve a neatly painted wall, in a few days.

But, remember, for your painting to be a success, you not only need to master the skill but use the correct and quality brushes. Skimping on the budget might seem like a great financial plan but will end up costing much more on repair costs.

Avoid this by planning and saving up for the best paint equipment. Also, paint over lacquer with these tips.