DIY Life

Restore Your Dyson's Suction

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2011-04-13T10:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Living Rooms, Bedrooms, Essential Skills, Know-How, Living Spaces

There are few things that can make you crazier than vacuuming with a machine that's lost its suction. Here's how one writer dealt.

Unstoppable suction? Photo: Dyson.

I've been a huge Dyson fan ever since I adopted my Dyson DC14 vacuum a few years back. It was everything I'd heard it would be -- the powerhouse bagless vacuum that never loses suction. And for a long time, everything was smooth and strong until one day the suction seemed to give out. How could this be? After all, the company prides itself on saying that their vacuums never lose suction.

So we reached out directly to the man himself, Sir James Dyson, to see what he could do. But before we were connected to him, we were asked to go directly through customer service to see if they could fix the problem. Here's what happened:

The First Try: I couldn't figure out how to open the part of my Dyson that the Dyson rep was directing me to do. By the end of the conversation, he'd told me my only other recourse was to bring the vacuum to a local Dyson repair shop where it would cost me $50 to fix. I felt defeated.

Next Time Around: The next Dyson representative I spoke with stayed on the phone with me for close to an hour. When I couldn't follow her steps, she'd offer up an alternative route as I worked around my vacuum, looking to locate the source of the blockage. With her help, I found the culprit! It was a mash of shredded paper and dirt stuck in a tube on the lower end of my vacuum. As soon as I pulled it out, the suction went back to full steam. Success!

If you're having a similar problem with your Dyson's suction, try these tips before calling customer service:

Tip #1: Clean the Filters: One big lesson I learned through this, you have to upkeep your filters. I had (ahem) never cleaned the filters in my Dyson vacuum (we're talking years, here.) Regularly cleaning your vacuum's filters does help ensure that blockages don't build up inside. If you've got a new machine, learn from my mistake and start showing that vacuum TLC sooner than later.

Tip #2: Blow Air Into the Vacuum: I learned a cool upkeep tip that I'm going to follow to keep my Dyson going strong. On occasion, blowing cool air from your hair dryer into the cyclone helps clear it of debris. Here's what to do: Simply remove the cyclone from the clear bin by opening the base as if you were emptying the debris into the trash. Press the release button where the cyclone meets the bin to separate the cyclone from the clear bin. Blow cool air into the circular opening at the bottom of the cyclone using the cool-shot on a hair dryer or a can of compressed air. Some of the debris will blow out of the shroud. Tap on the side of the cyclone and the remainder of dust will fall out the bottom.

Now -- want to see what happened when I spoke to James Dyson himself? Check out the interview!

By Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Quick Furniture Makeover: Switch Out the Knobs

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2011-04-11T09:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Bedrooms, Living Spaces

Sick of your old dresser? Replacing it with a major investment isn't your only option: You can switch our the knobs for a totally new look.

Aubrey + Lindsay's Little House

Like a fresh coat of paint, switching out the hardware on furniture is one of the cheapest, easiest ways to create an instant makeover. It's a design trick that never gets old -- especially with an ever-expanding list of sources for fantastic hardware. Would you ever guess that the dresser above is from IKEA? Blogger and DIYer Aubrey transformed a plain jane wood drawers using a little paint, stain, and these brass ring pulls.

Lee Valley

We scouted the market for a roundup of knobs to inspire your inner decorator. Check out the range of looks, from global to classic to disco. Dressers: Get ready to wake up!

Global Bold

World Market

The vibrant hand-painted colors on these ceramic scroll knobs from India bring a global chic vibe to dresser drawers. $20 for set of four.

Antique Chic

House of Antique Hardware

This amethyst glass gem is one rare find among the extensive collection of classic Victorian knobs available through the House of Antique Hardware. $10 each.

Classic Shimmer

Anthropologie

Anthropologie carries a huge collection of hardware across styles, including knobs made with the timeless charm of shimmering mercury glass. $8 each.

Disco Drama

Out of the Blue Design Studio

Check out this studio's collection of unique, out-of-box art glass knobs that will certainly make a statement.

DIY Tip: If you're having trouble tightening a knob, the screw is likely too long. Simply add a washer between the screw and the face.

Looking for more ways to revamp old furniture?
Refinish Old Furniture
Cheap Trick: Fix Up Old Patio Furniture
DIY Warrior: Reupholster a Bench

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Removing Rust from Metal and Concrete

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2011-03-09T11:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Exteriors & Facades, Patios, Porches & Decks, Essential Skills, Know-How, Outdoors

You don't have to live with those reddish brown stains on your furniture and patio. Removing rust from metal and concrete is easier than you think.

Flickr, Angela Schmeidel Randall

With temperatures rising, the last of winter's snow is (finally) melting away. If you have metal furniture or a concrete patio, his thawing may reveal an unwelcome surprise: rust.

It's hard to avoid rust. It naturally forms on metal when oxygen and moisture combine with metal over a long period of time -- such as a wet winter. It turns into an oxide, which we call rust. Over time, rust can corrode metal, so it's important to scrub off this surface substance asap.

We scouted out solutions for removing rust now to prep your outdoor space for summer living.

Removing rust from metal: With a little power from your drill and 3M's Paint & Rust Stripper, you can remove rust from metals (without damaging the surface.) The 3M disc is made of synthetic webbing that cleans rusty surfaces with ease.

Removing rust from metal furniture with enamel finish: Super Iron Out made it onto Martha Stewart's list of fave spring cleaning tools. This chemical solution touts its removal strength on many surfaces, including porcelain and enamel metal.

Removing rust from concrete: You'll find a number of chemical rust removers on the market, but there's actually a homemade pantry solution you may want to try first. Simply pour vinegar on the rust, let it sit and do its work, and then scrub with a stiff brush.

Tip: Chlorine bleach is not a solution for rust stains. In fact, bleach will only make the problem worse.

For more tips, check out our guide for how to prep your outdoor furniture for spring.

If you have heavy rust damage to your metal furniture, it may require repair in addition to cleaning. In the video below, Ask the Builder expert Tim Carter guides you through removing rust and using rust-inhibitive primer to cover up the remnants and prevent future rust buildup. Sure, rust can cause a lot of damage if left unchecked, but we're always surprised at just how simple it is to remedy rust.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Pruning Apple Trees

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2011-02-23T10:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Patios, Porches & Decks, Outdoors

With the coldest part of the winter behind us, it'll soon be peak season for pruning apple trees.

Pruning apple trees can begin as early as January, as seen in this photo, but is recommended for early spring. Photo: AP/Jessica Hill

If you have an apple tree in your backyard, now is the time to start thinking about pulling out the pruners. Don't worry about a surprise March or April snowstorm. A cold snap is the issue for apple trees -- you can get damage with severe cold temperatures because the buds on the apple tree are less hearty. Snow is actually a good insulator, so it's not an issue. We asked Mike Biltonen, VP of farm operations for Red Jacket Orchards, an orchard and juice company located in New York state, to share tips on the best way to prune apple trees - and why you should take the time to prune.

WHY PRUNE APPLE TREES?
Pruning apple trees is an essential part of renewing the wood that bears fruit. When branches get older they become less productive, and the fruit quality tends to decrease.

Pruning also helps sunlight penetrate the tree. The more light and air get into the tree, the higher quality of apples you'll harvest; fruit simply grows better in good light.

By opening up the tree for light penetration, you're also reducing the wood's microhabitats -- insects that can harbor disease -- so tree disease is less likely to occur. You also want to prune at this time to remove any dead and diseased wood.

Summer apple tree pruning should start in July, when your tree has decent growth. Photo: drugspr, Flickr

WHEN SHOULD YOU PRUNE APPLE TREES?
There are actually two times a year to prune:

At the start of spring, after the cold snaps, you want to do your dormant pruning.

By early July -- as soon as you get some decent growth -- you can start summer pruning, in which you take out succulent growth from the trees so you can get more air and light penetration to the fruit. Summer pruning is recommended for larger apple trees, in order to get a good crop.

APPLE TREE PRUNING SUPPLIES
you need four basic tools depending on the size of the apple tree.

For big trees, Red Jacket Orchards uses chain saws.

For smaller trees and detailed pruning, they use pruning loppers, hand shears, and a hand saw.

TIPS FOR PRUNING APPLE TREES
Always start with the big cuts first and then move to more detailed pruning. "Ultimately, you want to get a Christmas tree shape out of it," says Biltonen. You want the bottom branches to be longer than the top branches.

And you don't want any branches growing straight up or down, which can create structural issues. Branches growing straight up will function like a wall, and you won't be able to get good light to the fruit. If your branches are hanging down too much, your wood gets weaker, which affects your fruit quality.

Ideally, you want the branches at a 45 degree angle off of the trunk, which will be strong (like the wings of an airplane). The biggest mistake people make with pruning apple trees is pruning too much or not enough. "There's a balance you want to achieve," says Biltonen. "Know your tree and your objectives of pruning."

Extra tip: Apple wood burns wonderfully, so you can use it for firewood!

Want to know how to add an apple orchard to your urban landscape? Check out Garden Girl's tutorial for planting an urban orchard!

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Kitchen Countertops: How to Clean Granite

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2011-02-22T15:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Products & Materials

Taken a shine to your new granite countertops? Keep them sparkling 24/7 with these tips on how to clean and maintain granite.

granite-charlotte, Flickr

Unless you've been hiding under a rock (pun intended), you know that granite countertops are one of the most popular luxe upgrades for a home.

And what's not to love? Granite is one of the hardest of types countertop stones and is remarkably resistant to scratches and heat. The minerals in granite are also resistant to almost all chemicals commonly found in the home.

Still, stains happen, especially in the kitchen. So we consulted with the Marble Institute of America to find out how to tackle some of the trickiest stains -- and what you should know about resealing granite countertops so they stay as good as new.

How to remove oil stains: As with any stain, it's recommended to clean up the spill as soon as possible. Oil-based stains include everything from cooking oil to milk. An oil stain can darken the stone so it must be chemically dissolved so the stain can rinse away. Clean the surface gently with a household detergent or ammonia or mineral spirits. A poultice of baking soda and water is an eco-friendly solution that often works on oil-based stains.

How to remove organic stains (think coffee and tea): Fruit, coffee, tea, food, and paper can cause a pinkish-brownish stain on the stone, which may disappear after the source of the stain is removed. It's recommended to use a solution of hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia to remove the stain.

What to know about sealing granite
Sealing granite countertops ensures a further resistance to moisture migration into an already moisture-resistant surface. In fact, before 1995, there were very few quality sealers on the market, yet there were still few cases of staining. Once properly sealed, the granite is more resistant to everyday dirt and spills. Sealers have a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. In today's market, most granite automatically receives a resin treatment at the factory, so you don't have to worry about sealing your granite countertop.

For more information on caring for your granite countertops, check out the Marble Institute of America's consumer site.

SEE ALSO:
Countertop Materials for Every Taste and Budget (Popular Mechanics)
Husband-and-Wife Team Build Granite Business Together (Angie's List Magazine)

Want to fake a granite countertop? Try painting your laminate countertops to look just like granite! It really works; just check out this video demonstration.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Building a Mud Room

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2011-02-02T08:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Small Spaces, Living Spaces

Did you know that about 80 percent of the dirt on your floor comes tracked inside by your feet? Here's a guide to building a mudroom and keeping slushy boots and wet umbrellas where they belong.

MCT

If your winter has looked anything like mine here in the northeast, you're dealing with weekly snowstorms complete with muddy Wellies, soggy mittens, and lots of wet, dirty outdoor gear coming and going. It can create quite a mess if you don't have a system in place.

Building a mudroom not only creates a pretty entryway for your home, but it's a practical means of keeping winter's elements from trailing through the house. We consulted with Sabrina Soto, Target Style Expert for Home and host of HGTV's "Get it Sold," the popular show in which she uses her organizing and decorating expertise to stage homes for potential buyers.

Sabrina shares her tips below for how to makeover even the smallest space into a practical, inviting mudroom.

Organizing pro Sabrina Soto. Photo: HGTV

-- Any space will work: No matter the size, any entry can serve as a mud room as long as you assign everything a place to live and make the space comfortable and functional. "It's important to keep this space organized and tidy as it is the first part of your home that guests will see," says Sabrina.

-- Clear out your space and de-clutter: Before you start this project, it helps to clear out the entryway to define what space you have to work with and see what the limitations of the area are. Do a careful edit of what you need and what stuff has just landed there over time.

-- Build your mud room with the essentials: Carefully choose furniture that's the right scale for your space. A seating area and loads of storage bins for accessories are must-have tools for a mudroom. Sabrina suggests this entryway bench with built-in storage. The bench solves so many clutter problems in one storage piece.

-- Create a system and stick to it. Create enough storage space for every family member; color-coding is an easy way to organize bins for each family member. Don't over-clutter your mud room with furniture pieces that are too big or don't add function to the space.Maintain the mudroom to prevent it from becoming a catchall space.

ELEMENTS OF A MUDROOM
Here's a list of specific elements that Sabrina likes to pull into a mudroom. You can pick and choose which elements best suit your needs. Also, check out these stylish product picks, coutesy of the design minds over at ShelterPop!

Click over to ShelterPop for some fashion-forward mudroom product picks. Photos: from top left, clockwise: Etsy, Audio Video Furniture, Amazon, Pier 1 Imports, Anthropologie

-- Console table: A console table is a perfect landing spot for keys and provides a surface for a lamp, since mud rooms often need extra lighting to liven up the space. If you don't have space for a table, you could always substitute a floor or ceiling lamp and hooks for hanging keys.

-- Wall hooks: Simple, sturdy wall hooks keep umbrellas, coats, hats, bags, and even keys off the floor and within reach. Hooks offer the customization that each family member may need to keep them organized. Kid's hooks should be hung low so they can reach and help keep their belongings neat.

-- Mirror: A simple design trick in a small space is to hang a mirror at eye level, as mirrors give the illusion that a space is larger. Bonus: a mirror in your entry provides an easy spot to check your makeup as you head out the door.

-- Shelf with bins: No space for a bench? Maybe a shelf with bins for hats, gloves, and accessories is a better fit for your mud room.

-- Boot trays: Protect your floors from wet boots with a couple boot trays.

-- Door mat: Every entry needs a door mat to catch dirt before it comes in on your shoes.

-- Umbrella stand: You want a place for everything - your keys, mail, and umbrellas.

What's in your mudroom? Tell us in the comments below!

SEE ALSO:
Mudroom Ideas for a Small Space (ShelterPop)
HGTV Dream Home 2011: Mudroom Pictures (HGTV)
Mudroom Designs (Houzz)

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

How to Clean Enamel Cast Iron Pans

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2011-01-11T09:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Essential Skills, Know-How

Enamel cast iron cookware is attractive, durable and easier to clean than regular cast iron. Here's how to keep it in great condition for a lifetime.

Proper maintenance can make your cast iron pan, skillet and other cookware last a lifetime. Photo: Flickr, WordRidden

Since 1925, Le Creuset has been manufacturing its iconic enamel cast iron pots. Like traditional cast iron, these pots are heavy, durable and can heat food evenly over a long period of time. Outstanding heat-retention properties, make the cookware perfect for soups and stews, as well as browning meats. Yet unlike traditional cast iron, enamel-coated cookware doesn't require seasoning, features an attractive, slick finish, and is easy to clean and maintain.

Kristin Martin Mancia, senior brand manager for cookware at Le Creuset, shares the secrets for keeping enamel cast iron looking like new.

- Before cleaning, let cookware cool. You want to give a hot enamel cast iron pot a few minutes to cool down before washing. Putting a hot pot or pan in cold water can warp or crack the surface. Once cooled, unlike regular cast iron, it's safe to wash with hot soapy water and dishwashing liquid soap. The enamel coating over the cast iron eliminates the need to season the metal and protects it from water, and thus, prevents rusting and other types of damage.

Le Creuset cookware can be put in the dishwasher, but this action can dull your cookware over time. To increase your cookware's lifespan, hand-washing is advisable.

- Soak it. To remove stubborn food residue, fill the pot or skillet with warm water and leave it to soak for 15 minutes before washing. Use nylon or soft abrasive sponges to loosen stuck or burned-on food.

- Avoid metallic pads or any harsh abrasive cleaning solution. These tough cleaners will damage your enamel, as well as make the pots harder to clean in the long run.

- Don't mind a little browning. The brown discoloration on the inside of the pots happens from frequent use. Many foods are acidic or colored, which leads to temporary discoloration of cast iron pans. The high heats from cooking can also darken the outside of your cookware. This browning can be minimized with proper care.

SEE ALSO:
Remove Rust From Stainless Steel
How to Season a Cast Iron Skillet [The Kitchn]

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

The Best Handmade Holiday Gift I Ever Received

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-12-16T16:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Holidays, Crafts & Celebrations

One writer pays homage to an irreplaceable afghan (and an even more irreplaceable woman).

My favorite handmade gift is this cozy afghan crocheted for me by my late great grandmother. It's perfect for curling up on the sofa with. Photo: Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

My great-grandmother, who we called Na, lived to be 100. I was lucky enough to grow up with Na until I was 16. This wise, soft-spoken woman was the picture of warmth. I'd often find her sitting with one of her crochet projects on her lap as she watched The Young & the Restless. I'd curl up next to her on the sofa with my grilled cheese sandwich, and everything felt right in the world.

Crochet was one of Na's greatest talents. I've had a lifelong love of crafts. Coincidence? Probably not.

My great grandmother (who I called Na) holding baby me. Photo: Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

Before she passed away, Na managed to crochet a special afghan for each of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren (15 of us in total). We're all connected to each other in a special way though Na's handmade afghans, each different but definitely of a common thread (kind of like all of us).

In my early teens, it was my turn. I remember the thrill of going shopping with Na to find the perfect purple yarn (my favorite color, then and now). I watched Na work on my afghan; her aged hands were amazingly nimble. One by one, the stitches magically grew into a blanket. I opened up my finished crochet afghan on Christmas. It was a thrill to finally hold it in my hands!

Now I'm in my thirties, and Na's afghan traveled with me from the house where I grew up to college halfway across the country; then it came with me to my first apartment, and followed me through every apartment I've inhabited in New York, including my current place in Brooklyn, where I live with my husband. The afghan has kept me cozy through many brutal winters, and is a reminder that Na is always with me, wherever I go. Who needs a Snuggie when you've got a handmade treasure like this?

Four crochet afghans that Na made for different family members. Photo: Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

This winter, I'm signing up for a knitting class; I'm craft-oriented, but somehow I've never taken the time to learn needle crafts. My mom and aunt both knit and crochet. Now it's my turn to pick up where Na left off.

As for my purple afghan, it's still kicking; no holes, no pulls, and it only gets cozier with age.

Tell me about the best handmade holiday gift you ever received!

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Best Cyber Monday Deals 2010 - The DIYer's Guide

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-11-23T07:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Holidays, Crafts & Celebrations

Hate the Black Friday stampedes? On Cyber Monday the hot holiday bargains will sizzle online! Check out some of the best Cyber Monday deals from our favorite DIY-friendly stores.

Cyber Monday marks the official start of the online holiday shopping season. Photo: AFP/Getty Images

'Tis the season to shop, and the National Retail Federation forecasts Americans will spend $447.1 billion this year during the holidays. And in the age of the Internet -- where you can shop for everything under the sun from the comfort of your sofa -- a huge chunk of that money will be dished out online.

Much of the online shopping will be done on Cyber Monday, the first Monday after Thanksgiving that provides the thrilling chase for discount-hungry shoppers -- without the actual physical chase. Come Cyber Monday, known as the official kickoff of the online holiday shopping season, web surfers can find huge savings, free shipping and a wide-range of bargains and special gifts. Unlike Black Friday, there's no need to elbow fellow shoppers or wait in long lines because these fantastic deals can only be found online.

Many of our favorite DIY-friendly stores are participating in this bargain-hunting extravaganza, including Home Depot, Lowes and Walmart. So if crowded malls aren't your thing, take a peek at these great Cyber Monday deals.

- Sears: Find standout deals on electronics and home appliances, including free shipping.

- Target: From kitchen appliances to toys and electronics, sign up with Target to receive deal alerts, exclusive Cyber Monday steals and a preview off the sales. Plus, get free shipping when you spend $50 or more.

- Walmart: Among their listed online sales are a Garmin Nuvi GPS for $109 and a Hamilton Beach slow cooker for just $24. Can't wait until Cyber Monday? You can find some electronics on sale right now.

- Ace Hardware: Get 10% off any online purchase of $100 or more, as well as 10% off your entire online purchase at Ace Superstores.

- Best Buy: Look for deep discounts on laptops, televisions and other electronics, plus free shipping on orders $25 and up. Keep in mind that not all Cyber Monday deals last all day. Best Buy will offer huge deals -- but some may only last for a few hours.

- Amazon: Expect the online giant to offer bargain-basement prices, some of which have already kicked off. Amazon is now offering special deals online, and will be posting new deals every 30 minutes a full week before Cyber Monday.

- Macy's: Get free shipping on many items with a purchase of $99 or more. Plus 20-50 percent off savings site-wide, including on many home items like a KitchenAid stand mixer for $299 (regularly $399).

- Kohl's: You can actually find 400 early bird specials now, including a Hoover Steam Vac for $80 (regularly $140).

- Overstock.com: Also started rolling in deals early with $1-shipping on orders (some exclusions). Join the retailer's exclusive Facebook event and shop Cyber Monday deals before anyone else.

- Dell: Save up to 50 percent on select TVs, monitors, cameras, GPS devices and more.

- JC Penney: Find special offers during JC Penney's "Biggest Cyber Monday Sale Ever," which will actually begin on Sunday with over 40,000 deals available exclusively on jcp.com. Plus, get free shipping on orders $25 and up now through Nov. 30.

- Home Depot: Big appliance savings at this big-box store with special free-delivery options.

- Lowe's: Special savings on Dewalt tools and many big deals on appliances, along with free shipping.

Cyber Monday Shopping Tips:

+ Log on Early: Some sites will offer doorbuster-style deals that will last only for a few hours online. Many other retailers will post specials on their sites as early as midnight on Thanksgiving day and continue through Cyber Monday. (That's a total of five days of online shopping!) Both JC Penney and Radio Shack will start their Cyber Monday sales early on Thanksgiving.

+ Shop Safely: Make sure you're shopping on secured sites. Check for a padlock icon or that the website begins with "https://" -- both signs that the site is encrypted and safe. Also, avoid following links that are included in an email, as doing this will risk being linked to a fake Web page. Instead, type the URL of the store directly into a new window.

+ Skip the Shipping Fees: The one downside of shopping online (versus shopping at the mall) are the shipping fees. But the good news is many retailers offer free shipping deals on Cyber Monday. If you don't find free shipping deals on a retailer's site, check a competitor's. Also, some sites offering free shipping deals require a promotional code, so check up on bargain-hunting sites like RetailMeNot.com, Currentcodes.com, Savings.com and Couponcabin.com. Or you can simply do a Google search for the name of the retailer you're buying from plus the words "promotion code."

+ Shop Smart: Price comparison sites, like pricegrabber.com, are extra helpful when you're shopping online to ensure you're getting the best price for a particular item.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Bring Potted Plants Inside for Winter

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-11-17T17:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Patios, Porches & Decks, Essential Skills, Know-How, Outdoors

Give your potted plants shelter from the dropping temperatures -- but make sure to transition them carefully from outside to inside with these tips from a gardening pro.

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

Even though the temperatures are dropping, your potted plants can still survive year-round. It's the perfect time for those potted plants that have been sunning themselves outdoors to come inside for the winter. Many outdoor plants will thrive just fine indoors, and then you can bring them back outside come spring.

We asked garden expert Grace Martinelli, owner of the Brooklyn, NY garden shop Graceful Gardens, to share her tips for prepping potted plants for the big move inside. Grace shared examples of a number of outdoor potted plants that will be happy indoors for the winter: succulents, aloe, rosemary, basil, lavender, oxalis, coleus, ferns, and tender plants.

Getty Images

If you bring your potted plants straight indoors, your heated house will likely shock your plants, Grace says. The plants could easily dry out, wither, and die from the harsh change of temperature and air. A gradual transition is the key.

- Clean the leaves first. Before you move the plants, clean the leaves to get rid of any bugs. Grace recommends using a mixture of soapy water (be sure to use a natural soap) and a rag or paper towel. She spritzes the leaves and then wipes them down.

- Move plants to a sheltered outdoor area first. Before bringing your potted plants fully indoors, transition them to a covered outdoor area or a garage for a couple days. This will protect the plants from cooler winds.

- Transition the plants indoors for a few nights. Let your plants have a "sleepover" in your house for a few nights, but move them back to the sheltered outdoor spot during the daytime.

After a week of transitioning your plants, they'll be ready for the big migration.

A fern nestled inside a cloche. Photo: Apartment Therapy

- Choose the indoor spot wisely. Grace noted that many herbs, like rosemary and basil, will want more sun inside than they required outdoors. Pick a bright, sunny spot indoors for any herbs you're bringing inside. You'll also want to water these plants more frequently. Succulents and aloe love to sit by a cool window; they're used to living in the desert where there are hot days and cool nights.

- Some plants hibernate. Many houseplants slow their growth in the winter. You can water them less frequently. This holds true for succulents and aloe, which go dormant for the winter and require less water.

- Spritz away: Many potted houseplants will be happy to receive an occasional spritz of water on their leaves. Your ferns and houseplants will love a little water on their leaves. (Steer away from spritzing the leaves of succulents and aloe, though.) Some ferns, including a maidenhair fern, would be happy to sit under a glass cloche for the winter. Creating an instant terrarium with the cloche cover keeps a warm humidity around the fern.

Follow this same guide if you adopt a potted Christmas tree. Those mini trees also need to transition indoors before sitting close to your warm hearth. Be sure to time it so you only keep potted Christmas trees indoors for a couple weeks; any longer and they'll dry out. You'll want to transition them back outdoors in the same gradual way right after the holidays.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Black Friday Deals 2010 - The DIYer's Guide

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-11-10T09:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Essential Skills, Know-How

Leaked Home Depot Black Friday 2010 deals, along with ads from Walmart, Amazon.com, Macy's, Staples and OfficeMax, is causing a stir among holiday shoppers (DVDs for under $2? Yes, please!). Check out these and more Black Friday deals from our favorite DIY-friendly stores.

Black Friday deals like the Target Black Friday 2010 ad and Sears' doorbuster deals have shoppers lining up even before dawn. Photo: Getty Images

The Thanksgiving holiday brings a few surefire traditions: a feast beyond measure at which three slices of pie seems modest, football teams battling it out on the television, and, of course, the shopping day of champions: Black Friday. The Friday after Thanksgiving is the day where retailers slash price tags in hopes of luring consumers to kick off their holiday shopping in robust measure.

In reality, Black Friday is typically not the day when retailers see the most money spent. But it is the busiest shopping day of the year, where big-box retailers open their doors extra early (some even open Friday at midnight!) to crowds of shoppers waiting to pounce on the best deals of the shopping season.

In anticipation of bargain basement prices, we researched Black Friday deals at our favorite DIY-friendly stores for 2010. We'll be waking up at the crack on dawn to score major deals on tools, gadgets, and household supplies for everyone on our list (okay, maybe for ourselves too). Will you?

- Home Depot: While the home improvement giant is currently battling Web sites that leak their Black Friday 2010 ads, Home Depot is hinting at significant holiday sales, including free shipping on big orders over $250. You'll have to wait until midnight on Wednesday for the official Black Friday ad.

- Amazon: Not in the mood for fighting the shopping crowds on Black Friday? Find door-buster style deals now through Cyber Monday on Amazon.com's Black Friday Deals site. Specials include a Kodak Mini video camera for $49 (reg. $99), Denali 115-Piece Home Repair Tool Kit for $46 (reg. $100) and KitchenAid Pro 600 Series 6-Quart Stand Mixer for $249 (reg. $500).

- Macy's: Wake up early with Macy's on Black Friday, as all stores will be open at 4 am. (Macy's stores in shopping malls may even open as early as midnight or 3 am!) Deals include big discounts on home appliances and a Literati e-reader from Sharper Image for $130.

- Staples: Among the company's Black Friday laptop and tech deals are the HP Laptop with Intel Celeron 900 Processor for $300 (reg. $500), HP 20" wide-screen LCD monitor for $100 (reg. $150), and Kodak MD30 camera for $70 (reg. $140).

- OfficeMax: Look out for doorbuster deals on TVs, including a Vizio 32" TV for under $300.

- Walmart: The superstore's ad was leaked almost a week early (thanks, Internet!), and it revealed that some locations will open at midnight on Black Friday, while others will begin at 5:00 am. Deals include a 32-inch LCD TV for under $200, videogames for under $10, and DVDs for under $2 each.

- Target: Expect huge sales, including a 40-inch Westinghouse 1080p LCD HDTV for only $298 (reg. $550) and $3 Chefmate appliances such as 2-slice toasters, 5-speed electric handmixers and 2-slice sandwich makers.

- Ace Hardware: Here's a peek at their after-Thanksgiving sale ad. Included: A whopping 70% off a 16-gallon Wet/Dry vac!

- Lowe's: Check out the sneak peek of their released Black Friday ad. Some highlights: A Tradesman Table Saw for $59 -- regularly $139.

- True Value: Their hardware stores are offering 50 percent off deals on Black Friday.

- Sears: You'll find doorbuster deals on appliances at Sears.

- Kohl's: You'll find some 50 percent off sales and brand name countertop appliances starting at $12.99. Doors open at 3am.

- Walmart: Toys galore will be on sale at this big-box giant.

- Kmart: Shop for 200 toys under $50 and other deals at Kmart.

- Fred's: Doors open at 5am on Black Friday for deals on their already bargain-priced items, like a 72-piece toolkit for just $19.99.

- Macys: From 4am to 1pm on Black Friday, you can take an extra $10 off purchases of $25 or more.

- Walgreens: Save on your rolls of holiday gift wrap and batteries for your new toys at their Black Friday sale.

- CVS: Many buy 1 get 1 deals on Black Friday at CVS stores.

More deals to come as story develops...

For the most up-to-date coupons and Black Friday ads (more ads will be posted daily leading up to Black Friday), check out Walletpop. By checking out what deals are out there before hitting up the crowded stores, it will help you stay focused on your shopping list.

Black Friday shopping tips:

+ Know the Return Policy: Many stores have changed their return policies so that they're more stringent. It's a smart idea to ask about the store's return policy first so your options are clear. Be aware that electronics items may have restocking fees.

+ Ask for a Gift Receipt: It makes gift-giving and receiving so much easier if you get a gift receipt. That way, there are no hassles if something's a wrong fit. Getting a receipt also preserves the value that you paid for the gift if the person goes to exchange it.

+ Sometimes it's best to wait: The real deals on electronics often come in January (after the holidays but before the Super Bowl, when new models have come in stock.) So if you're looking to save money on a big-ticket electronics purchase (especially one for yourself!) consider waiting when you'll find deeper sales in January.

Will you be lining up at the crack of dawn?

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

The Daily Fix: The Incredible Reappearing Stain

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-11-02T10:15:00 00:00

Filed under: Essential Skills, Know-How

Stain removal is hard enough. But a stain that keeps reappearing every time the fabric dries -- despite your most valiant efforts to remove it -- can be downright disheartening. Here's the secret to permanent stain busting.

Photo: masochismtango, Flickr

Have you ever had a stain reappear? It's a common (and frustrating) mystery. You're suddenly hit by the spray from a soda can, or a squirt of lemon juice lands on your top. You think you've got it covered since you caught the stain right away: you grab a napkin and a dab some water or club soda on the discolored spot, and your shirt looks as good as new; the stain appears to be gone. But then by the end of the day, the stain has come back. What happened? .

Dousing a food stain with water or even club soda does not treat the stain. It just masks it for a short time. The sugar in the stain later oxidizes from exposure to air and turns colors. It's most noticeable on a white shirt. A squirt of grapefruit, say, will leave a few spots of juice that, if left untreated, will turn yellow as the sugar oxidizes. Once oxidization happens, it's almost impossible to remove the stain.

So what should you' if you're out and about when a stain sets in? Come prepared. There are a few stain removers that work great for sugary food-based stains (which are likely to oxidize). My three favorites are the OxiClean Spray Away, Tide to Go, and the Laundress Wash & Stain Bar. Bonus: they're all portable so you can keep them in your bag.

Be careful not to rub when you apply your stain remover on the spot. Blotting is better; it won't rub the stain further into the fabric. And next time you're out, resist the wet napkin solution: it won't keep your stain undercover for long.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

DIY Diary: What We Learned From Our Energy Audit

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-11-01T15:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Living Rooms, Bedrooms, Dining Rooms, Home Offices, Small Spaces, Essential Skills, Know-How, Living Spaces

Our writer was curious about energy audits, so she invited a professional energy consultant to perform one on her home. Now she has the skills it takes to save energy and money with some simple DIY fixes and routine household upkeep. And so can you!

A professional energy consultant uses an infrared camera to conduct an energy audit. Photo: Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

I'm no stranger to energy efficiency. I'm well-versed in ENERGY STAR appliances and compact fluorescent light bulbs. But I have to be honest: I'd never had an energy audit before. I've read plenty of articles that stated how beneficial it can be to get one performed in your home. But until recently, I was clueless about what an energy audit actually entails or why it's important.

So I hired Sherard Murphy of Pro Energy Consultants and tagged along as he completed an energy audit on my mom's 1940s New Jersey home. I learned that an energy audit is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home. In a nutshell, the energy consultant uses special technologies to uncover building shell problems that typically go undiscovered and unresolved by builders, architects, and insulators. My mom walked away with a boatload of information about how to make her home more energy efficient, which equates to considerable savings in her energy bill and a home that's comfortable in the chilly days of winter and the hot days of summer.

Before sharing the details about the audit, I want to bring up a key point that I learned through this process. Not all energy audits are going to be the same. One consultant may suggest changes that total about $4,000, while another may suggest a few hundred dollars' worth in fixes for the same space. Some energy consultants will push certain brands and fixes to your home that you may not necessarily need. It's important ro choose an independent energy consultant who's not affiliated with a company. An independent consultant, like Pro Energy Consultants, will likely cost a little more (about $360 for an energy audit), but it's worth it because you're getting a thorough, unbiased assessment of your house. Imagine you hire an energy consultant who's associated with a window company, for instance. You're likely to hear that you need new windows.

The energy auditor's tool box. Photo: Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

Also, be wary of any energy consultant who walks in with just a clipboard and a pen. An energy audit is a scientific process that requires many specialty tools (see the tool box above) and a clear understanding of the science of a home. With Sherard of Pro Energy Consultants, we didn't feel pressured to buy anything; he just made suggestions that made sense.

Of course, once you hire someone to do an energy audit once, you can perform your own energy audits in the future. A professional's toolkit contains a lot more sophisticated equipment than you might care to (or be able to afford to) buy. For instance, many professionals use infrared cameras to locate air leaks (the cameras are able to detect changes in air temperature). But you can improvise with more basic tools (for instance, use an incense stick instead of a high-tech smoke stick). The U.S. Department of Energy offers this guide to DIY energy audits.

Now, back to our professional energy audit. Here's what I learned:

1. Newer is Not Always Better
Case in point: My mom's house has its original single-pane wood-frame windows with storm windows on the outside. Sherard noted that her windows work really well; there's no immediate need to switch them out for newer energy-efficient models. Also, the existing radiators were designed to sit right under the windows, and Sherard pointed out that this was a smart design. This way, the radiator breaks up the convection current from the window and eliminates a draft.

Covering the sump pump is a cheap, effective way to curb basement moisture. Photo: Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

2. Cover the Pump
My mom's sump pump needed a cover (which costs about $12. Easy!). The open sump pump was increasing the humidity in her basement storage room. It let the moisture seep into the rest of the basement. And the last thing a basement needs is more moisture!

Holes in the ceiling insulation are best filled with spray foam. Photo: Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

3. Spray Foam to the Rescue
By far, the most common fix that Sherard suggested through the audit was to seal up energy leaks. In the basement, holes in the ceiling insulation and an used leaky window were in dire need of sealing. Sherard suggested using spray foam. He also found drafts behind most of the electrical outlets, and suggested caulking around the outlets.

4. Big Leaks Overhead
We found out that my mom's attic is the site of one of the home's biggest energy leaks. The attic hatch has been allowing hot air from the attic to seep into the second floor of the house during the summer; likewise cold air during the winter. Sherard suggested placing an airtight attic tent above the pull-down attic stairs to provide a thermal and air seal between the attic and the second floor. Whenever she wants to go in the attic, she'll simply unzip the tent.

5. Blower Doors and Smoke Sticks
One of the biggest parts of the energy audit was creating a blower door. Sherard installed a parachute-style door in one of my mom's doorways, with a big blower fan in the bottom of the door to simulate actual wind. Then we closed every window and door in the house and turned the fan on. The blower door helped show Sherard the dynamics of the entire building envelope, and highlight where there were drafts and energy leaks. Sherard also used a smoke stick, which emits a visible, non-toxic smoke to help you detect drafts coming through doorways, windows, outlets, recessed lights, and so on. It's pretty cool to actually see your energy leaks! (Use a powerful floor fan and an incense stick to perform your own blower door test).

The energy efficiency pro used a smoke stick to detect leaks around the basement window. Photo: Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

All in all, my mom's house fared pretty well in the energy audit. And we learned so much about the way a house works through Sherard's assessment. And it was so easy to follow Sherard's suggestions. Fixing the house's energy leaks required one stop to The Home Depot to pick up an attic tent, sump pump cover, chimney balloon, and loads of spray foam.

And we're already feeling the difference. Typically, I need to wear a fleece jacket inside my mom's house once the temperature drops. No longer. Post-energy audit, my mom's home feels so much more comfortable. And when she receives her next heat and electrical bills, I'm sure she'll feel even better.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Last-Minute Halloween Decorations

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-10-20T11:05:00 00:00

Filed under: Holidays, Crafts & Celebrations

Did Halloween sneak up on you? There's still plenty of time to scare up some thrills with last-minute Halloween decorations!

A spooky Witches Brew makes for an excellent last-minute Halloween decoration. Photo: Flutterbright, Flickr

Whether you're hosting a ghoulish Halloween bash or decorating your home to welcome trick-or-treaters, check out these last-minute decorating ideas that won't break the bank.

1. Spook the Punch
No party is complete without a festive cocktail. Make a bubbling witches' brew by placing a punch bowl in a cauldron, along with broken pieces of dry ice. Pour hot water over the dry ice to create an eerie smoke effect. In the mood for blood? Serve a spooky, delicious red punch.

2. Glow-in-the-Dark Paint
Carving pumpkins isn't the only way to decorate your front stoop. Write spooky messages with glow-in-the-dark paint on pumpkins and gourds.

Photo: Michelebandgeek, Flickr

3. Scary Halloween Lights
Replace regular incandescent bulbs in light fixtures with spooky orange light bulbs and black lights. For a dramatic Halloween glow, hang a few rice paper lanterns in your entryway with orange light bulbs.

4. The Haunted House
Give your home that spooky, abandoned feel by throwing white sheets over furniture. For extra drama, board up your windows with thin pieces of plywood. Use an easy-to-remove adhesive like 3M Command to temporarily secure the boards.

5. Creepy Art Gallery
Create a chilling gallery of art to complete your haunted house. Photocopy old portraits from history books about the 18th or 19th century. Then mount the photocopied portraits on black mats and group them together on your fireplace mantel or line a wall in your house.

Comment or tweet us your favorite DIY Halloween decorations @diylife!

SEE ALSO:
Easy Halloween Decorations (Holidash)
Boo-It-Yourself: Halloween Projects (Curbly)

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Pumpkin Carving Made Easy

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-10-19T11:40:00 00:00

Filed under: Holidays, Crafts & Celebrations

Halloween is in the air and that means it's time to break out those classic pumpkins. Follow this easy pumpkin carving guide to create a spooktastic jack-o'-lantern!

Enjoy the glow of your carved Halloween pumpkin! Photo: Indigoprime, Flick

Nothing says Halloween like the glow of your very own carved jack-o'-lantern. Once you've gathered your pumpkin carving tools and templates, you're well on your way to creating your masterpiece. Here's a step-by-step guide to carving a pumpkin fit to spook the entire neighborhood.

1. Cut an opening in your pumpkin.
Instead of carving a hole around the top stem, opt to cut one on the bottom of your pumpkin. This way the pumpkin is set over a candle sitting on a flat surface, instead of the curvy bottom of the pumpkin. Doing this will make it easier to light and replace candles, as well as hide the cords for electric lights. To cut the opening, push your pumpkin down on a large cookie cutter. It will create an impression in the pumpkin. Carve along the line with your carving saw.

Photo: Metavida, Flickr

2. Gut the pumpkin.
Use a flat-edged ice cream spade, melon baller, or even your hands to remove the pumpkin's strings and seeds. Use a damp towel to clean off any pumpkin guts that spilled over on the pumpkin's outer shell. Save the seeds for a tasty treat later.

Photo: Indigoprime, Flick

3. Tape your template and poke around the lines.
Drawing your template directly onto the pumpkin with a marker will most likely result in smudge lines, so it's best to use a paper pattern to map out your pumpkin face. Choose the flattest side of your pumpkin to tape on the template. Then use a sharp pumpkin carving tool such as an awl, needle tool or T-pin to poke around the lines of your template.

Photo: Indigoprime, Flickr

4. Carve the dots.
Remove your paper template and use a carving saw to cut along the poked holes.

5. Make a smoke hole.
If you're using candles and not electric lights, you'll need to add a hole on the top of the pumpkin for smoke to escape. This will serve as a chimney so that heat and smoke don't get trapped inside the pumpkin. First, place your pumpkin over a lit candle. After a few minutes, remove the pumpkin. You'll notice a blackened area visible on the inside of the pumpkin. This area is where you should carve a chimney hole.

6. Light your pumpkin.
Use a votive candle inside a glass candle holder to illuminate your carved pumpkin. This will make the candle less likely to tip over. You can also place small flashlights, or battery-operated light sources inside your pumpkin.

Photo: John-Morgan, Flickr

MORE PUMPKIN PROJECTS
Glittered Pumpkins (Martha Stewart)
Fall Centerpieces | Pumpkin Crafts (Holidash)
Pumpkin Place Setting (Shelterpop)

SEE ALSO:
Halloween Safety Tips
Cool Halloween Decor: Flying Crows (ShelterPop)
Easy No-Carve Pumpkin Ideas (Curbly)

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Pumpkin Carving: Cool Tools and Gadgets

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-10-14T17:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Kitchen & Bath, Products & Materials, Holidays, Crafts & Celebrations

Carving knives are so last decade. From basic to extreme, we've got your Jack O'Lantern tool kit stocked. All you have to come up with are the bright ideas!

What makes pumpkin carving even more fun? Power tools! Photo: Joshua & Amber, Flickr

Halloween is approaching fast, and DIYers are already hard at work on cleverly carved pumpkins. (For a step-by-step illustrated guide, check out How to Carve a Pumpkin on our sister site, Holidash.)

Now's the time to grab your gourd and show up your neighbors with the best Jack O'Lantern on the block. The ambitious pumpkin-carver -- one who's not afraid to experiment with extreme design -- you'll need the best carving toolkit. If that's you, we've got some good news: there's a plethora of power tools and hand tools on the market that put the standard carving knife to shame. Here are a few of our favorites:

BASIC PUMPKIN CARVING TOOLS

Clockwise from top left: Pumpkin saw by Pumpkin Masters; Ice cream scooper by by Oxo; Carving tool by Pumpkin Masters (Photo: Amazon); Cookie cutters by Kaiser (Photo: Cooking.com).

- The Scooper: You'll need to scoop out the pumpkin guts - and thin the inner wall of your pumpkin. You can use your ice cream scoop to do the job. A flat-edged ice cream spade, like this one from OXO, will do the job efficiently.

- The Saw: While this isn't kid-friendly, a battery-powered saw will speed up the process of carving your pumpkin. Pumpkin Masters makes one that you can find in many drugstores.

- Carving Tool: For all the fancy finishing details, like a toothy pumpkin grin, you'll need a special carving tool. Pumpkin Masters makes one that's a four-in-one carving tool.

- Cookie Cutters: Regular tin-plated steel circular cookie cutters make it easy to create a neat opening around the bottom of your pumpkin. (It's also safer to carve an opening on the bottom of the pumpkin, so you can set your candle on a flat surface and set your pumpkin over it.) You can also use cookie cutters of other shapes (think stars and moon) to punch out designs on your pumpkin.

EXTREME PUMPKIN CARVING TOOLS

Clockwise from top left: Melon ballers by Oxo (Photo: Cooking.com); Dremel cordless carving tool (Photo: Amazon); Linoleum cutter by Speedball (Photo: Blick), Hole cutter by Kemper (Photo: Blick); Power drill by Ryobi (Photo: The Home Depot); Pumpkin Gutter drill attachment by Dakota Products (Photo: Amazon); Wax transfer paper by Saral (Photo: Blick).

- Dremel cordless pumpkin carving tool: It's a two-speed, 6-volt rotary tool that comes with 10 carving templates - perfect for the ambitious carver looking to create an intricate design.

- Hole cutters: If you're carving a Jack O'Lantern with a lot of different holes (or polka dots!), a set of hole cutters will come in handy.

- Power drill: A typical drill is the easiest way to make small holes in your pumpkin, such as the centers of eyes!

- Pumpkin Gutter: If you're the DIYer who loves to use your drill, here's an attachment for you. Attach this pumpkin gutter to your drill, and the attachment will loosen the pumpkin guts (just make sure you have a helper to hold your pumpkin steady for this high-powered tool.) You can also use this tool to shave down the inner wall of your pumpkin and make carving easier.

- Wax transfer paper: You can trace a cool design onto your pumpkin using this transfer paper. It's a faster, easier method than using a toothpick to poke an image on the pumpkin's surface.

- Linoleum cutter: For accurate details and carved designs, a linoleum cutter is your best bet.

- Melon ballers: You don't have to carve all the way through a pumpkin to get that magical glow. Simply carving circular depressions in your pumpkin with a melon baller will shine when you place a candle inside.

Do you have any favorite tools for carving a pumpkin? Tell us in the comments!

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Martha Stewart Decorative Painting Tool Kit: DIY Product Pick

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-10-11T09:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Crafts, Kitchen & Bath, Products & Materials, Crafts & Celebrations

The key to achieving great faux painting finishes is having the right tools. Unfortunately, it can be hard to DIY tools. Ever a DIY guru, Martha Stewart has debuted a decorative painting tool kit that allows you to create a dozen faux paint finishes easily. Is there anything Martha can't do?

This decorative painting tool kit by Martha Stewart makes sophisticated painting patterns a cinch. Photo: Martha Stewart Living

Martha Stewart has made a career based on inspiring us all to roll up our sleeves and create -- be it delicious meals, homemade crafts, or DIY home projects. I aspire to create many things found on the lovely pages of Martha Stewart Living. And about a year ago, I read one of the magazine's features all about different decorative painting techniques. I was hooked. And I was especially drawn to the gingham technique. The idea of creating gingham with paint was too tempting. I imagined making over my dresser drawers in a classic gingham check. But I quickly learned that a good painting job is all about the tools. And I didn't have the right ones.

When I tried to make my own gingham check tool, it was harder than I expected. The story had suggested taking a potter's rib tool and cutting out teeth to create the striped effect. It was difficult to cut into the rubber and my teeth were not even, so my gingham effect turned into a blurred mess. I'd already wasted $6 trying to make my own homemade tool, so I gave up.

Now for $18.97, you can pick up a Martha Stewart decorative painting tool kit from The Home Depot that includes all the perfect tools to create a gingham look, along with 11 other eye-catching effects: basket weave, faux bois, raw silk, plaid, herringbone, curly maple, linen, sponge-on, sponge-off, large stripes, irregular stripes. Here are a couple examples that I spotted at the Martha Stewart preview event.

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

My favorites include the faux bois wood grain and the textured herringbone.

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien

How Does the Martha Stewart Decorative Painting Tool Kit Work?
The kit comes with 8 tools that can create a dozen decorative painting techniques along with a booklet to guide you through how to do each technique yourself. First, you start with a base coat of paint. Then you apply a glaze and use the simple tools to manipulate the glaze and create the special effects. Whether you're painting a piece of furniture or painting an entire wall, you'll need to prep your surface.

1. Wipe down the surface with a damp sponge to clean it.
2. Patch any holes in the wall with spackle and a putty knife. Let it dry. Then sand the area to a smooth finish.
3. Prime the surface.
4. Paint the base coat using a satin-finish latex paint. Allow 24 hours for the paint to dry completely.
5. Divide your surface into even, workable sections. Use a level to draw a pencil guidelines every 18" from floor to ceiling.
6. Apply your glaze.

Tips for Choosing Paint Colors
When you're choosing your base coat and glaze color, make sure there's a difference in color, but not a jarring contrast. Choose a glaze that's slightly darker than the base coat color to create a sense of depth. Or use a lighter color glaze over a deeper base.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Making News: Most Homes Have Poor Fire Protection

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-10-04T09:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Essential Skills, Know-How

If you're like most people, your home falls short when it comes to fire protection. We spoke with an expert from First Alert to clear the air on fire safety.

Getty Images

Here's an eye-opening fact. According to a recent nationwide survey by First Alert, 66 percent of American households do not contain the number of smoke alarms mandated by the National Fire Protection Association. And that number spikes to 90 percent for homes that don't have adequate detection for carbon monoxide; 40 percent of homes in the survey had zero working carbon monoxide detectors. That said, nine out of 10 respondents thought they did, indeed, have adequate fire protection.

"What's troubling is that many people don't realize that their families are at risk," says Deborah Hanson, director of external affairs for First Alert. We asked Deborah what we really need to do to equip our homes with the best fire protection.

BUYING SMOKE ALARMS AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

There are actually two different types of electricity: photoelectric and ionization. Both technologies are recommended and both types of alarms are made.

-- Photoelectric alarms are better at detecting slow, smoldering fires (like a cigarette in the couch).
-- Ionization alarms are good for flash fires (which are more common.)

It's recommended to have both types of alarms, or dual sensors, throughout the house. With some new advanced alarms, there is smart-sensing technology, so the alarm knows to ignore a nuisance (like burning popcorn in the microwave.) First Alert has combo smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that can talk to you and tell you where the fire is. There are smoke alarms that light a path with an escape light. Newer alarms now have mute buttons, so you can easily silence if it's a nuisance - since you don't want to take the batteries out (and forget to replace.) Look for an alarm that has that test and mute capability.

How many alarms do you need?
You should install an alarm on every level of your home and inside every sleeping area (or bedroom). "When you're asleep, your sense of smell actually goes to sleep," says Deborah. That means that the idea that the smell of bacon or coffee wakes you up in the morning is wrong; your body was already aroused to wake up.

For this reason, it's critical to have a smoke alarm where you sleep. It's also so important to have carbon monoxide detectors in the bedrooms. "If something does happen in the middle of the night, carbon monoxide puts you in a sleepier state," says Hanson. If you're living in a spacious 3500+ square foot house, you should consider adding an extra alarm, so you're well-covered.

INSTALLING SMOKE ALARMS AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

Where should you install smoke alarms?
Deborah recommends installing smoke alarms on the ceiling, because smoke travels upward. Smoke alarms are either hard-wired, battery-powered, or wireless. Hard-wired alarms require a visit from an electrician. The new wireless alarms work in a wireless network just like hard-wired alarms, alerting you to a fire in another room; no electrician necessary. First Alert battery-operated smoke alarms come with mounting brackets, screws, and the batteries so you can easily install them yourself. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are either hard-wired or battery-powered (never plug-in.)

Where do you install carbon monoxide detectors?
You can put carbon monoxide detectors almost anywhere; carbon monoxide is lighter than air, so you don't have to place them on the ceiling. You can install them out of the way, behind a nightstand, or plug in a unit by the baseboard. You just don't want to install a carbon monoxide alarm within 10-15 feet of a stove or furnace, both of which emit trace levels of carbon monoxide.

TESTING A SMOKE ALARM

- Smoke detectors don't last forever. Your alarm is working every minute, 365 days a year. You should replace smoke alarms every 10 years. Carbon monoxide alarms have a lifespan of 5 years.
- Test that the alarm is working. Technically, you're supposed to test your alarms once a week, but hardly anyone does that. At the very least, says Deborah, you should check your alarms twice a year (use daylight savings as a reminder to change the batteries.) With some tech-savvy alarms, you can actually test your alarm by simply pushing a button on your TV's remote control. It's that easy.
- Don't ignore your alarm. "I caution people not to ignore your carbon monoxide warning," says Hanson, who reminds us that carbon monoxide is odorless. If your carbon monoxide detector sounds, First Alert advises to shut off all appliances and open windows and doors to let clean air circulate. If the problem continues, you may be dealing with a leaky appliance. To avoid false-alert confusion, alarms use a different sound to give a low-battery warning; you'll hear an intermittent chirp every few minutes.

TAKING PRECAUTIONS

Fire Drills
You need to talk to your family about some type of plan in case of emergency. Plot it out on paper and see where your exits are. Discuss with young kids what they should do if they hear an alarm. Practice a fire drill. If kids are taught about what to listen for and practice, they'll register that they're supposed to get up and out of the house. Talk about how you're supposed to go low if there's smoke - and never return back into a house on fire. The U.S. Fire Administration offers these tips on planning an escape route in the event of a fire.

Common Sense Fire Protection Reminders

-- Carbon monoxide is the result of incomplete combustion. You can avoid carbon monoxide poisonings by never running a car in an attached garage. Be cognizant of where your car is running, if you have an automatic ignition or you're pulling into the garage at night and get distracted before pulling your keys out.

-- Never light a fire indoors using a charcoal or hibachi grill.

-- Make sure you have your chimney sweeped - you want your chimney checked for any obstructions, like a bird's nest. "These days everyone lives in such airtight homes. don't forget to crack open a window," says Hanson. "Make sure your home is breathing properly."

- The kitchen fire is still the most popular kind of fire. Be aware of kitchen safety. Keep a Tundra spray and kitchen fire extinguisher on hand. Don't cook in loose clothing, like bathrobes. Make sure pot handles are turned in so kids can't knock off the pots.

Got any other fire safety tips? Ever dealt with a fire in your home? Tell us your story in the comments!

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Rooftop Knowledge: All About Cedar Shingles

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-09-23T14:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Exteriors & Facades, Essential Skills, Know-How, Outdoors

Enchanted by the beauty of a wood roof? In the second installment of our Rooftop Knowledge series, we take a closer look at the pros and cons of cedar shingles.

(C)INSADCO Photography, Alamy

Aesthetically, it's hard to beat the amazing, rustic beauty of a cedar shingle house. Over time, the cedar shingles age out to a lovely gray or soft silver finish. But for all their good looks, cedar shingles have some unfortunate downsides -- among them, high cost and the effort to maintain wood shingles. Do the pros outweigh the cons? Here's your guide to buying, installing and maintaining cedar shingles, the most popular type of wood shingles on the market.

Pros of Cedar Shingles
As one of the oldest roofing materials, cedar shingles continue to be highly desired by homeowners. Here are a few reasons why:

- Cedar shingles have stood the test of time. In the expert home guide, Mr. Fix-It Introduces You to Your Home, contractor and Ace home expert Lou Manfredini notes that wood roofs were the most common in Colonial America. Those homes were built using shingles created from an easy-to-find resource: cedar trees.

- Cedar roofs are attractive and add curb appeal to a home. As the years pass, the color of the wood ages beautifully, providing a value-enhancing charm.

- Cedar is wind- and impact-resistant. Cedar shingles are durable and resilient in the face of storms, hurricanes, strong winds and flying debris.

- Wood offers energy benefits. It helps to insulate attics, and allows your home to breath and circulate air better. In the case of a fire, flames will burn through the roof, instead of trapping dangerous carbon monoxide within the house.

Cons of Cedar Shingles
Despite their beautiful appearance, here are a few reasons you may not want to invest in cedar shingles:

- Cedar is an expensive roofing material. Cedar shake shingles cost about $200 a square plus installation costs, notes Manfredini. For an entire roof, you can expect to pay six or seven times what you'd spend on an asphalt roof (see Rooftop Knowledge: Asphalt Shingles).

- Cedar roofs require regular maintenance. Manfredini explains in his book that cedar expands and contracts, plus it's very porous and susceptible to moss and mold growth. As a result, regular maintenance is required, including mildew and moss removal. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, cedar shingles aren't the ideal choice.

- The sun is an enemy of cedar shingles. Damaging UV rays from sunlight cause cracks to develop.

- Cedar is highly flammable. Some areas have building codes in place that limit or ban the use of cedar shingles to reduce the risk of fire. Also, if you live in an area prone to forest fires, you may have to pay a higher insurance premium for wood roofing.

Buying Cedar Shingles
There are two main options for cedar shingles: machine-sawn shingles for a smooth, refined look or hand-split wood shakes, which are shingles that offer a rougher, rustic appearance. Look to buy cedar shingles with a Class A fire rating because these shingles include a fire-resistant treatment, according to the National Roofing Contractors Association.

Flickr, Ctd 2005

Installing Cedar Shingles
The installation process for cedar shingles is very similar to installing an asphalt roof. A few tips to keep in mind:

- Flashing is the trickiest part of the installation job. Metal flashing is used over joints in your roof to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage. Without proper flashing, you're bound to see leaks. Check out this guide to help you with flashing.

- Avoid re-roofing (as you don't know the condition of the sheathing underneath). There are a number of options for shapes of wood shingles: fish-scale, cove, and V-cut shingles. Cedar shingles require open sheathing, or 1-by-6 boards that are spaced apart. The spacing in the sheathing keeps air circulating to help prevent moisture buildup.

- Begin at the bottom. You'll want to start the installation process on the bottom edge of the roof and work your way up.

Maintaining Cedar Shingles
A cedar shingled roof demands maintenance and repair. Follow these tips to keep your wood shingles in working order:

- Inspect the roof in the fall for any cracked or curling shingles. Leaves and debris can build up on your wood shingled roof, so you'll also want to clean out your gutters.

- Clean and preserve your roof with a linseed-oil preservative. Experts suggest that you clean cedar shingles every three to six years. Cleaning and preserving your roof is especially important in humid climates, where you run the risk of mildew growth. You can also use a DIY solution of equal parts warm water and chlorine bleach with a little detergent to combat moss and mold growth. Since this is a wet and slippery job, exercise caution if you plan to do it yourself.

- Combat weathering with an oil-based stain. Moss growth on a roof traps moisture and can seep through shingles and rot your roof structure in a matter of a few years. Help reduce weathering by applying a semi-transparent oil-based stain as a finish to your cedar roof. The roof naturally expands and contracts with the weather, so avoid applying any paints or varnishes which can cause the shingles to crack.

- Power wash correctly. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, make sure the power-washing of your cedar shingles is done right. If done improperly, shingle damage, leakage and wood erosion can occur.

SEE ALSO:
Rooftop Knowledge: All About Asphalt Shingles
All About Roof Shingles (ShelterPop)
Metal Roof Choices (Networx)

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Winter Pool Maintenance

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-09-21T09:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Patios, Porches & Decks, Outdoors

It's about time for your swimming pool to close up shop for the winter. From water care to pool covers, soak up these winter pool preparations.

uberculture, Flickr

Labor Day is (sadly) behind us, and the leaves have already started to change color. If you're a homeowner with a pool, now's the time to prep your personal swimming hole for the colder months ahead.

We spoke to swimming pool pro Michael, service manager and lead technician at Midwest Pool & Spa, to find out what you need to do to close your pool for the season. He notes, "The cleaner you put the pool to bed, the cleaner you'll wake it up." With Michael's expert tips, you can save money by doing it yourself -- and forget about it till next summer.

Dive right in to these winterizing tips for both in-ground and above-ground pools.

IN-GROUND WINTER POOL MAINTENANCE

1. Blow water out of the pipelines and filter, and blow antifreeze into them to prep them for freezing temperatures. It's important to get the pipelines (and filter) as clear and dry as you can. The pipelines are the mechanism that allows water to flow from the pool to the equipment and back. (Generally the contractor builds the pool with a trench where the pipes are hidden underneath grass and decking. Pipelines average about 50 to 75 feet of plumbing each way.) This is important because of the freeze zone, or the depth that the ground will freeze (which varies by region.)

You can simply buy a leaf blower or a 5.5 power shop vac and do this yourself. It's definitely a doable job for a competent DIYer. Here's how to clear your pool's pipelines:

-- Attach the leaf blower or shop vac to the bottom of the skimmer via the blockstick.
The skimmer boxes are the units that skim the water, where the bugs collect at top; the skimmer has holes on the bottom of it to receive the blowstick. The blowstick is a 3-foot-long piece of PVC pipe. You can't buy a blowstick commercially; people usually make their own. To make a blowstick: you need PVC pipe in whatever desired length, a male pipe thread adapter, glue and primer or PVC cleaner. You can use PVC cleaner or primer, which is typically purple in color. It allows the glue to form a weld with the PVC. It softens the glue on either side and allows it to permeate. And you need duct tape to attach blower to the pipe.
-- First blow the lines dry.
When you're blowing, the jets will blow in a particular order. You'll want to cap the first jet to blow. Then move to the next jet, and wait for it to blow. The order that the jets blow is the same order in which you should blow in the antifreeze.
-- Disconnect the blower.
Pour the antifreeze into the blowstick.
-- Reattach the blower and turn it on.
Uncap the lines, blow antifreeze into them, recap, and move to the next jet, following the order of jets from above. You'll need about 1 gallon of antifreeze for every 10 feet of pipe.

2. Remove drain plugs from the pump.
Locate the water circulation pump; there's usually two plugs to each pump. One plug is for the catch basket and the other plug is on the main pump body. There are 3 parts to every pump: motor, the wet-end which has the discharge of water, and a strainer basket. There's a drain plug on the strainer basket. There are usually 2 or 3. Put those plugs in the pump basket so you know where to find them in the springtime.

3. Skim off debris from your pool using a skimmer net.
The flatter skimmer nets can skim debris off the surface. Skim rakes are wider and the netting is deeper, like a fishing net, so you can catch debris off the floor of your pool. Then there's the easy-to-use automatic pool cleaner (APC). If you're in the market for one, Polaris is a respectable brand.

4. Cover your pool.
You have a couple options for pool covers:

-- Tube and tarp: It's a big tarp, and then there are tubes, or pieces of vinyl that have been molded to hold several gallons of water. You fill the tubes with water using your garden hose. Lay the tubes around the perimeter of the pool as weights. (Some people don't use tubes and improvise with cinder blocks to weight down the tarp. There's a risk there as if too much water accumulates on your cover, the cover could get pulled into the pull and the cinder blocks along with it.) Buy the best pool cover you can afford; you get what you pay for. Cheap pool covers will likely only last one year. A quality pool cover can last three times as long.
-- Safety cover: Safety pool covers can be either automatic or installed at the time you closedown your pool. An automatic cover comes out with the turn of the key. Non-automatic safety covers have anchors that pop out of the deck. You hook a spring or rubber strap to the anchor. The material for safety covers is tougher than tarps. It's a heavy-duty mesh. Michael prefers a light-blocking mesh pool cover. With a light-blocking mesh cover, the algae can't grow. So when you uncover your pool in the spring, you won't see green water.

6. Shock and treat pool.
You need to shock the pool 8 to 24 hours before it's closed down for the season. Shocking is super chlorination; it's basically a dose of oxidizer into the pool. Shocking removes contaminants and clears up haziness. You need to shock treat your pool to make it a clean environment to sit dormant for 4 to 8 months.

Shock is a powdered chlorine, of which there are a number of different types. You want to have a bucket of it on hand. The discount stores sell shock that uses Epsom salts, which work to reduce the intensity of a fire if there was a big fire. But Epsom salts turn into fertilizer when they're in the pool, so you're basically feeding the algae. Your local pool store will sell a full-strength version of shock. Be sure to use some common sense precautions in working with shock; you don't want to open a bucket of chlorine indoors. Move outside where you can have safe ventilation. Add the shock to the pool and use a brush to stir up the chemicals.

7. Add algicide.
This chemical is available at pool stores. Use one quart of algicide for every 20,000 gallons of water, to keep algae from growing in the pool.

8. Make sure your water is balanced.
Check to see if there are metals in the water. (It's actually copper, not chlorine, that makes your hair turn green!) You should have a pool technician check the balance of the water a few times a year. In between, you can check to see if you're far off by testing the pool with a pool test strip.

ABOVE-GROUND WINTER POOL MAINTENANCE

1. You don't need to blow the lines as you do with an in-ground pool.
There's usually just 6 to 12 feet of plumbing leading to the filter.

Draining an above-ground pool. Photo: djaquay, Flickr

2. Drain the pool to the level of the jet.
When you disconnect the hoses from the equipment, gravity will do the work of draining the pool pump and filter for you. Drain the pump and filter. It's a cinch to drain out the pool. At the top of the pool, there's a skimmer box to the hair and lint pot, there's a hose from top of the pump to the filter valve, and then a hose from the filter valve to the pool jet. Disconnect the two hoses between the pool and equipment, one from the front of the pump and the other at the filter valve (also called multi-port valve.) You disconnect those hoses and lay them down. Water will naturally drain down to the level of the jet by gravity. After disconnecting the baskets is good time to remove the plugs. Water has drained down and the equipment is draining, give the filter two to three hours up to week (before freezes) disconnect the hose from the top of the pump but leave attached to filter. Pull it up chest high, and with filter valve still set on filter, pour antifreeze down. It will go down pipe. Tilt the pump forward to drain out any water still in pump and then you can take the pump to shed. The filter is set for spring. Remove the plugs and put in the pump basket. Take the pump to a shed or garage for the winter. The filter needs to stay put and drain out for a few days.

3. Once the pump has been drained, pour in a gallon of antifreeze.
The antifreeze mixes with the water in the bottom of the tank, so nothing freezes or bursts during the winter.

4. You'll also need to shock treat the pool.
(See above, In-Ground Pool Winter Maintenance, for directions.)

5. Add a quart of algicide.
Make sure your water is balanced.

6. Cover your pool.
You'll generally want to use a tarp-style cover that has cables that cinches around the outside of the pool.

There are lots of special pool cleaning devices on the market - some are good and some are more gimmicks. Michael uses Dryco dry cover on his pool. It's a drain that mounts on the pool cover and allows water accumulation - water or ice - drain off the pool. It takes care of siphoning off the water so you don't have to do the work. There are also some accessories to hold onto the pool cover better. The cover wrap works like shrink wrap to cover your pool. A cover wrap keeps your cover in place, so it doesn't flap around in the wind. Wind damage is actually the biggest problem with pool covers.

During the winter, make sure water isn't accumulating in excess over the cover. A little water is ok; it actually helps hold the cover down. Too much water strains the cover. Some pool covers are taut, like a trampoline. Other pool covers are more slack, and those tend to accumulate more water. Michael suggest the taut pool covers - and they have a nicer appearance.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments