DIY Life

Ceiling fans: how cool are they?

Bill Volk — 2008-05-09T14:00:00+00:00

Filed under: fix-it, household hacks, in the kitchen, miscellaneous, seasonal, weekend projects, electrical, kitchen, outdoor, staying green, ventilation, lighting, remodeling

I live north of Atlanta, Georgia where it tends to get a bit hot and humid from June through September.

My home has a number of temperature-stabilizing facets to it, the best one being that I have high-efficiency windows with argon-filled, low-e, dual paned glazing. Right now, in fact, I have the windows partly open, and even with an outside temperature of about 88 degrees, it's a very comfortable 71 degrees inside.

But ... there's no airflow through my home office (lucky me, to be able to work from my home, however.) Although I have ceiling fans in four other locations, in- and outside of my home, I have been slow (lazy?) to put one in the office; that ended today. Let's take a reasonably detailed look at how to install a ceiling fan. (Kudos to Kelly Smith for his nice article on this same subject.)

Follow the sequence of the gallery to get a good idea of how simple it is to hang one of these babies.

%Gallery-22095%

WARNING -- ENGINEERING CONTENT FOLLOWS: if this doesn't interest you, skip over it.

Ceiling fans, in the Summer, don't decrease the air temperature in your home. What they do is increase the evaporation rate of your skin ("wind chill") to make you feel cooler. In the Winter it's a tad different. When the fan direction is reversed, the upward airflow from the fan moves the stratified (your word of the day; look it up) hot air from the ceiling down along the walls to the living space where it hits the cooler air nearer the floor, in a somewhat crude mixing pattern, transferring the warm air to the cooler, via forced convection.
More fan blades don't equate to more air moved. Too many blades restrict the amount air that can be drawn through the blade area; additionally, extra blades increase the motor load, upping the power use, and reducing the motor RPM, thus reducing the airflow. Many fans have 5 blades for aesthetic and balance reasons; I have four, five, and a six blade fan in my home; I really prefer the four blade fans for reduced noise versus optimum airflow.
Pick the correct fan size for a specific room; don't get the same fan for different sized rooms. A bunch of research has been conducted to determine optimum size -- go with it.
The optimum pitch of the fan blades is between 12 and 14 degrees, with increasing efficiency, and increasing motor size and power requirements, above that range. While you can generally choose some facets of the fan's design, like the number of blades, pitch is pretty much not your call. That said, my experience is that an 11-13 degree blade pitch fan is more than suitable for the majority of home installations.
The distance the fan is from the ceiling, and the floor, is quite important. As you might imagine, the closer the fan is to the peeps in the room, the more breeze you'll feel. Most installation codes (and common sense) require that the blades have a clearance of at least 7'. I mean, if all your NBA pals are wandering about the family room, do you really want to get sued? On the other hand, a minimum of 12" distance is recommended from the fan blades to the ceiling, in order to achieve optimum air circulation. So, you'll have to know the ceiling height in order to ensure that the blades are 8-9' from the floor. That distance will then dictate whether you will require a flush mount, or down rods, available in various lengths.
Fan power consumption is minimal -- fans use only 10% of the energy of an air conditioner, or about that of a 100 watt bulb (what a deal!) The general consensus is that for every degree you increase the set point on your a/c thermostat, you can enjoy a 6-8% power savings. (Look for an Energy Star fan for the most efficient model.)
Ensure that your prospective fan has a reversing switch. Except for a real "cheapo", I suspect that most fans do, but it doesn't hurt to check. HINT: some boxes indicate that the blades are reversible; this means that they can be turned upside down to have a choice of color schemes.
A final note -- be sure that you have your fan rotation properly set for the appropriate season; in the summer, you want the airflow to be down, so the fan should be set to rotate with the leading edge up. The reverse is true for the heating season.

Alright, enough nerd stuff; on to the fun.

There are a bazillion options for fans and light kits and remotes. I bought my fan at a "home store" and was very satisfied. This is the third fan, from the same maker, that I have installed, and I have two of the same model -- 52", four blade, three-speed reversible, sealed bearings, 12 degree blade pitch, three lamps, pull chains for the fan and lamps.

First off -- safety: you're working with electricity here, so extreme caution is called for. Throw the circuit breaker(s) and test the line(s) before you go to work. Don't just "slap" the wire to see if you get a jolt! Please note I mentioned circuit breaker(s) -- some of you folks may have fans that are wired into two wall switches; shut both circuits down and check both of them or you may get bitten.

The time -- took me about one hour and 15 minutes to do this installation, but I was in no particular hurry.

The tools --

flat and cross-tip screwdrivers
wire cutters
electrical tape
circuit tester
ladder
work light

The materials --

The fan, of course, described above; it had all the required parts except the electrical tape -- $78.
A switch to replace the old rheostat -- $.78
A suitable metal electrical box to support the weight of the fan -- $2.59
a new cover plate for the switch -- $1.06

The process --

All fans, in general, have to be installed in pretty much the same fashion, and have basically the same parts. That said, there are always nuances, so read the material enclosed with the fan. As my dad used to say, "when all else fails, read the instructions." So, here goes ...

Ensure all the power to the fan is off.
Remove the old fixture.
As necessary, replace the old electrical box if it won't support a 35 or so pound fan; better safe than sorry.
Hang the fan support bracket on the fan box.
Temporarily supporting the fan -- a helper is really valuable here -- make the wire nut connections between your house and the fan. Don't be surprised to see that you may have to tie the black house power line to the black (fan power) and blue (light kit power) leads on the fan motor. You'll also have to connect the white neutral and the green ground lines to their respective leads. You'll likely have to cram a lot of wire into a little bit of space; that's why I like to tape the wire nuts to the lines so they don't come apart in the "stuffing" phase of the project.
Lock the fan motor in place with the keeper.
Hang the fan motor cover.
Assemble the blades.
Attach the blades to the motor.
Attach the light kit, if you have have one, connecting the appropriate leads.
Install the lamp globes and lamps.
Replace, as necessary, the fan switch and cover plate.
Re-energize the circuits and test the fan.
Ensure the blade direction switch is set in the correct position.

OK, good job. Clean up the mess so The Boss doesn't disparage your mechanical acumen (yet another word of the day -- a three-fer!) by tripping over your tools and junk. (Remember that leftover parts are not always indicative that the manufacturer was overly generous with his nut and bolt inventory.)

If you find yourself with a noisy ceiling fan, Dan has some great tips on silencing it.

If you've found this article helpful, you may be interested in my features on water conservation, rain barrels, and "greening" your home.

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Clay spoon rests make unique gifts

Debra McDuffee — 2008-05-09T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: in the kitchen, kids, crafts, gifts, clay

In this age of doing-it-yourself, handmade gifts are becoming more and more popular. The trouble with that is making sure your gifts are original and unique.

Making a spoon rest out of clay can be as one-of-a-kind as you want it to be, or you can make it simple and use a cookie cutter so your kids can help with the project. The article suggests making a heart spoon rest, but you could make anything you wanted to -- freehand, or use a cookie cutter or stencil of your choice.

You'll need air-drying clay, acrylic paint, both in colors and clear, and any tools you will want to use to work the clay. Suggestions about how to make hole to hang the spoon rest and how to make it rest on a flat surface easily are included in the instructions. You can paint it when it is dry and even put felt on the bottom for a nice base.

If your kids -- or you! -- know your way around a can of Play Doh, you can easily make a clay spoon rest as a keepsake gift for any occasion.

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Perpetual Remodeling Syndrome: choosing a kitchen countertop

Kelly Smith — 2008-05-08T16:00:00+00:00

Filed under: home decor, in the kitchen, weekend projects, bathroom, kitchen, remodeling, Perpetual Remodeling Syndrome

Ask any real estate agent, and she'll tell you that when it comes to home equity and return on investment, the two most important rooms are the kitchen and the bathroom. Forget the fancy pool; it's nice, and it might close the deal at sale time, but prospective buyers are going to decide yea or nay in the kitchen.

The kitchen is a focal point for family gatherings and entertaining guests. So what are the main components of the typical kitchen? Well, there's the major appliances. They should match and be energy-efficient. Storage? There should be plenty of cabinets to stash food, dishes, pots and pans.

But what really stands out are the kitchen countertops. This is where the real work is done. Because of that, lighting should be focused on them, literally putting them in the spotlight.

Whether you're planning on building a new home or you're rolling up your sleeves for a remodel, you have a lot of choices when it comes to selecting the countertops. The things to consider are personal preference, aesthetics, matching the rest of the decor, and, of course, budget. Let's have a look at some of the choices.

The current favorite: granite

There's no denying the fact that granite is a trendy choice just now. It's available in a multitude of color mixes and patterns: that's just the way nature made it. Where is it quarried? All over the world. The U.S., Italy, Brazil, India, China; the list goes on. Obviously, the farther away it comes from, the more it will cost.

The high price of granite is driven by its popularity and transportation costs rather than its availability. Generally speaking, you can expect to shell out from $60 to $120 per square foot, not including installation labor costs.

Maintenance is routine. To begin with, most suppliers recommend applying a granite sealer before use. Avoid dropping anything on it. Clean up spills right away with a damp sponge or cloth, to avoid stains. Use trivets and coasters. True, granite is quite heat-tolerant, but any grit between a pot or pan and the surface might scratch the sealer.

Corian: imitation stone

Corian is a stone look-alike made by DuPont. It's very durable, nonporous, and heat- and scratch-resistant. It's available in over 130 distinct colors, so matching your decor is a snap. The fact that it's synthetic brings the price in lower than natural stone.

Maintenance is similar to granite, other than not requiring a sealer. It is important to wipe up any spills immediately, even water, because standing liquid tends to form a film which will require a strong cleaning agent to remove.

One interesting fact about Corian that makes a strong selling point is that it comes from the factory kosher certified. Is DuPont a forward thinking company or what?

Plastic laminate: it's everywhere!

Plastic laminate is arguably the most prevalent countertop in homes throughout the country. In the way that most soft drinks are referred to as "Cokes," plastic laminates are generically called "Formica." Formica is actually a brand name. Other brands of plastic laminate are Wilsonart, Nevamar, Hamilton, and Pionite.

Laminates are available in a mind-boggling variety of colors and patterns. What you see when you look at the surface is actually a photo-like reproduction.

Caring for a laminate countertop is basic. It's nonporous, but it scratches if you try to use it as a cutting board --which a surprising number of people do. Since it is a plastic material, it's definitely not recommended to put a hot object directly on it.

A big selling point here is that working with laminate is a great DIY weekend project, as long as you're only planning on flat surfaces. In other words, curved corners or backsplashes are best left to cabinet shops. A 4' X 8' sheet of laminate can be had at home depot or Lowes for about $80.00.

Other than the laminate, you'll need a saw with a laminate blade, some contact cement, a router with a laminate bit, a J-roller, some dowels, and, of course, your time!

A butcher block countertop: functionality and style

Nothing says "class" like a butcher block countertop. As the name implies, it's used as a cutting surface. Strictly speaking, you don't often see an entire butcher block countertop surface. It's usually just a section of it located where it's most logical for use.

These countertops are always made with hardwood (maple being my personal favorite). Different shades of wood can be laminated together for an impressive-looking surface.

This is another fun DIY project. There's nothing too difficult about building one, and you can be just as creative as your imagination allows. I'll save all the details for a later date, but it basically boils down to cutting hardwood strips, gluing them together, cutting to the desired dimensions, meticulous sanding, sealing, and installation.

Regular care involves disinfecting the surface often and keeping it wiped down. Periodically, you'll want to sand it lightly and re-seal it. I like to use a product called Behlen Salad Bowl Finish.

Ceramic tile: providing a vintage look

Many, many years ago, modest kitchen countertops were made exclusively of wood; of course, this proved a very bad idea, for a number of different reasons. Primarily, what's in a kitchen? Fire and heat. Fire, heat, and wood don't always play well together.

Another problem is all the moisture. Back then, sealers weren't what they are today. But in the early 1900's, ceramic tile began to replace wood. If you want a truly extreme retro look, go for hexagonal white tiles: white was the most common color because of its hygienic implications. (Think old-time hospital walls.)

Today, ceramic tile is still used, for both countertops and backsplashes. Laying ceramic tile is also a very do-able DIY adventure. The important thing to remember is to use a high-quality grout sealer.

These surfaces are very easy to care for. Wipe it, scrub it, set hot pans on it. Well... very warm pans, anyway.

Have you made your choice yet?

While the above list is far from all-inclusive, I've covered a few of the most popular kitchen countertops. The important thing is to choose something that you like now and that you will continue to enjoy looking at for years in the future. The really good news here is that almost all of these are DIY possibilities.

Even with granite, you can do much of the work yourself. For example, when my mother-in-law was getting granite for her bathroom vanity, I did all the cabinet work, but I let the rock guys cut and set the countertop. Then I finished the project by installing the snazzy plumbing. Saved her a ton of money... and scored some points at the same time!

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Makeover your kitchen canisters

Anna Sattler — 2008-05-07T20:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, home decor, in the kitchen, crafts

Walking into a candy store takes me back to the good ol' days of the corner dime store. Row after row of candy designed to make your teeth rot out of your head, and shelves with glass canisters filled with mouthwatering treats to make you bounce off the walls were abundant.

Those canisters were pretty boring though, with only a metal lid and a metal or plain wood knob. If you have these canisters at home, you can liven them up with a little fabric and new knobs, following the instructions provided by Kate over on Design*Sponge.

For this project you will need glass canisters, fabric, glue or Mod Podge, decorative knobs, a screwdriver, a foam brush, and scissors. Basically all you need to do is remove the old knob, trace the lid onto your fabric, cut and paste the fabric onto the lid, and then add a decorative knob.

If you can't find vintage canisters at the thrift store or at your neighborhood garage sales, try eBay. If all else fails, Kate says her canisters come from Target. You can find decorative knobs at your local hardware store, and the thrift store is a great place to find vintage fabric.

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How to remove seeds from a watermelon

Debra McDuffee — 2008-05-07T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, seasonal

I know, I know they come seedless now. I even know the beauty of the watermelon seed spitting contests of my youth. So is there really a need to know how to un-seed a watermelon?

Well, it is a neat trick, a way to show off to your friends, something else to say you know how to do. So yes, you really do need to know how to un-seed a watermelon.

Instructables gives a step-by-step tutorial, complete with pictures, on how you can do this. Basically, you cut wedges up to where the seed line would be and you serve those parts. Then, cut the seeds away from the middle and serve the center of the watermelon.

You are officially ready to be seen with red juice dripping down your chin.

(via Lifehacker)

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How to cure cast iron pans

Francesca Clarke — 2008-05-05T20:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, cleaning

If your pans and other cast iron cookware are well cared for, they will last a lifetime. Curing or seasoning is the process by which you fill the pores of the pan creating a smooth, non-stick surface. this should be done to the entire pan, even the lids.

Basically, you clean the pan thoroughly and cover it in shortening. Place it on a cooking sheet and put it in the oven at 350 degrees for 20 min. Take the pan out and drain the excess oil, then put it back in upside down, this time for a couple of hours. Make sure you read these full instructions and important tips for curing cast iron.

Even if your pans come "pre-seasoned" make sure you read the instructions for any specific cleaning details, and keep in mind that they will need to be re-seasoned regularly to keep them from sticking. Repeat seasons won't take as long, but it is one of the many important things to do when caring for cast iron cookware. Here are a few other useful tips:

Don't wash cast iron in the dishwasher
Scrub any rust spots with steel wool and mild soap
Boiling water in your pan will wash away the seasoning

If you've invested in quality cookware, it will only work for you as well as you care for it. Take the time to season or cure it, then maintain it well.

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Make the perfect breakfast in bed

Francesca Clarke — 2008-05-05T16:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, seasonal, entertaining

Pamper her this Mother's Day with a luxurious breakfast in bed. Older children can probably manage it on their own, but for most families dad will need to coordinate things. The three most important things to consider are the planning, preparation and presentation.

Planning

Take the time to plan a breakfast that you know she'll enjoy. She won't mind you trying something new, but if you're more comfortable, stick with recipes that you already know how to make. Buy all your ingredients ahead of time, but stash them away carefully so that she doesn't suspect her early morning treat.

Prepare as much as you can ahead of time; set your coffee maker on a timer, cut fruit, and pre-mix any batter that can sit overnight.

After the break I'll cover some suggestions for a delicious breakfast in bed:
First and foremost, consider her favorites. Strawberry waffles does her no good if she's really more of a toast and eggs kind of gal. You'll want recipes that look labor intensive, but are either easily prepared, or where much of the prep work can be done ahead of time.

Make up a batch of this almond raisin granola the day before. Pair it with some silky yogurt and an exotic fruit salad.
This baked artichoke fritatta is sure to impress her. It probably isn't something the kids would like, so I'm guessing it isn't part of her regular weekday breakfast run.
Take a page from a famous bed and breakfast recipe, and serve her these cranberry, white chocolate, and lemon muffins.
Even the most basic crepe can be a decedent treat. Top them with her favorite fruit.
Good old fashioned pancakes are always a popular breakfast. My husband likes to pour the batter to make our children's initials and other fun shapes. You could spell out "Happy mother's day" on her plate, or make a giant pancake heart for fun.
Don't pour her a cup of the same sludge you've been drinking all morning; take the time to make her a perfect cup of coffee. If you really want to spoil her, add a glass of champagne and orange juice (now there's something I wouldn't mind waking up to!)

Preparation

Depending on your wife, getting up before her might not be an easy task. If you make an appearance after she's gone for a run, changed the children, fed them breakfast and done the dishes, your pampering plan might lose a little luster. If by chance this happens, the children can shoo her back to bed, but it's best to leave her sleeping as long as you can.

With effective planning, the preparation shouldn't be too difficult. Leave yourselves lots of time. Making breakfast together can be a great way to enjoy time with your children. Spend some time talking to them about why you're doing this for mom. You might even like to take pictures of the children preparing breakfast. She'll enjoy looking at the photos of her little ones covered in flour, having fun, and doing something special just for mom.

Presentation

Take the time to present breakfast beautifully. Don't just slap the food on a plate. Arrange it carefully, presenting it the way you might see in a fancy restaurant. If you're feeling really motivated, learn the right way to drizzle strawberry sauce, and add interesting garnishes.

Once you've got the plate arranged, don't accompany it with your Costco size bottle of syrup; use small serving containers for all your condiments.

Use your fine china (you know, the stuff you got for your wedding and haven't used since you had children). A small vase with fresh flowers and a special note or card will tie things together nicely.

Finally, present your breakfast on a serving tray. If you're feeling particularly ambitious and have an extra day to prepare things, why not surprise her with a personalized serving tray? Lisa explains each step in this simple project where she turns an ordinary serving tray into a fabulous gift and a treasured memory.

Cleanup

This one wasn't included in the introduction. Maybe I didn't want to break the alliteration of planning, preparation and presentation, or maybe I was afraid of scaring you off at the thought of a thorough cleanup. Either way, it is as important (if not more) than the other steps.

Imagine how she would feel coming down from a delicious breakfast in bed, and finding dirty pans on the stove and a sink full of dishes.

She'll probably want you and the children to keep her company during breakfast. Don't shy away from this; instead, savor the time together while she enjoys your culinary creation. Just before she finishes breakfast, slip away and draw her a nice warm bath. For the perfect bath, add in a little luxury with scentual bath and body products. Dim the lights, light candles and turn on some music. Hang her robe in the bathroom, set out a big fluffy towel, and make yourself scarce!

Once she's in the bath, it's clean up time for you and the children. Make sure you take care of all the breakfast mess. It would also be nice if she doesn't trip over toys as she comes down the stairs, or pass scattered shoes in the hall on the way to the kitchen. So, don't confine your cleaning efforts to the kitchen; take some time to tidy the rest of the house too.

Even with careful planning, precise preparation, striking presentation, and thorough cleanup there are bound to be mishaps. Remember that things don't have to be perfect. Ultimately, it actually is the thought that counts.

If you have children at home, they should be involved (to the extent that they can), but this isn't a gift reserved for families. If your children are older and away from home, or if your wife is expecting your first, make this sweet indulgence a romantic time of appreciation or anticipation.

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How to have a successful bake sale

Debra McDuffee — 2008-05-01T16:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, kids, miscellaneous, money, entertaining

My local moms' group is in the middle of a community service project right now -- raising money to buy backpacks and school supplies for students whose families need a little financial help. One of the ways we are doing this is through bake sales.

We have a good, active group of women who have really come together to share ideas, and now you can benefit from what we've learned about how to have a successful bake sale.

Look for events / locations where there are already lots of hungry people.
Some of our ideas are: at T-Ball and soccer games, at the local concerts in the park, and in front of a local grocery market. Always check with your town to see if permits are required for set-up.

Offer a good variety of treats.
Make sure you offer small cookies, large pies, and everything in-between. You'll need plenty of chocolate... and no bake sale is complete without Rice Krispie treats. We'll even have some vegan treats and cookies for the food-allergic at our bake sales.

Set prices just right for your community.
Do you need a pricing guide to help you get started? This one helped us out, but you'll find that you know your community and what they will pay for certain treats.

More tips on how to have a successful bake sale, dealing with presentation and organization, can be found online. Soon you'll be on your way to raising money for your group, and maybe you can even enjoy a few leftovers!

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The Scentual Life: Home spa with a focus on feet

Debra McDuffee — 2008-04-29T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: in the kitchen, gifts, beauty and skin care, Scentual Life

We all need renewal time, and a little pampering pleasure tops my list. Who doesn't love facials, pedicures, full body scrubs and the like? You can create the decadence of a day at the spa, right in your own home.

So plan on a little you-time, invite your girlfriends over for a spa party, or create a spa day for your mom, just in time for Mother's Day (and early enough that you can get your materials together!). Or, get some pretty containers and give these "products" as gifts.

This week, we'll start with pampering the feet, and columns on the face and body (and hands) will follow in subsequent weeks.

%Gallery-21683%THE FEET

Especially this time of year, feet need a lot of attention. Break those dogs out of their winter state and make them spring and summer ready.

Foot Soak
Use this soak in a foot bath, or if you have a vibrating foot spa, even better. You'll only need a small scoop, about 1-2 TB, and soak until your feet are rested and soft, about 20 minutes.

1 c. Epsom salts -- restores magnesium balance, detoxifies and soothes sore muscles
1/2 tsp. ground peppermint -- optional, but pretty!
1 tsp. jojoba or vegetable oil of your choice
25 drops essential oils

Mix dry ingredients, then combine the oil and essential oils. Add to dry and mix well. Store in an airtight container, either a jar, a square window tin or tin-tie bag works well. Add a ribbon with a note about how to use and you've packaged your foot soak as a thoughtful gift. For details on how to package your foot soak in a tin tie bag, visit the gallery.

Foot Scrub
Follow up your soothing soak with a scrub. Since your feet are wonderfully hydrated, the dead skin will slough off with ease and you'll be one step closer to pretty feet.

1/2 c. sea salt
1/2 TB ground herbs -- peppermint, rosemary, lavender or any combination
1 TB olive oil or whatever you have on hand -- approximate, as each oil will lend a different consistency to the scrub
20 drops essential oils

Mix dry ingredients, then combine the oil and essential oils. Add to dry and mix well. You are aiming for a crumbly salt mixture; if it is sand-like, you need more oil, if it is soupy, you've used too much. Store in a jar, perhaps a pretty blue jar if you are giving as a gift.

Foot Butter
OK, you've got hydrated, soft and exfoliated feet. Keep them that way with this emollient-rich foot butter. Use this every night before bed, and wear socks. You'll wake up to the softest feet imaginable.

3 oz. shea butter
1/2 oz. virgin coconut oil -- at most health food stores
1/4 oz. cocoa butter
30-40 drops essential oils (less if you are using a lot of the minty ones)

Melt all ingredients together very slowly, either over a double boiler or in 30 second increments in the microwave. When melted to a clear liquid, stir and let stand for about five minutes. Stir in essential oils, pour into container and refrigerate until set.

The best containers for the butter are slightly shallow with a wide opening, so you can scoop it out easily, like a flat tin.

To scent these foot-pampering recipes, you can use any combination of:

lavender -- for calming and relaxation
tea tree -- antibacterial and anti-fungal for really clean feet
peppermint -- cooling and soothing for hot, tired feet
geranium -- to aid circulation
cypress -- again, for circulation
or of course, any of your favorites

Follow up with a nail trim and your favorite polish and don those flip-flops. Or, present your beautifully packaged foot spa products as a thoughtful pampering gift.

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Organic produce wash made with lemon and vinegar

Anna Sattler — 2008-04-25T18:30:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, staying green, health

My daughter loves strawberries. She opens up the refrigerator when I am busy and proceeds to eat them straight out of the container. I shudder to think what pesticides are going into her precious tummy because she chomped away before I could wash the berries.

Produce wash can be very expensive, especially if your family eats a lot of fruit and veggies. You can take the pain out of buying commercial produce wash by making your own organic fruit and veggie wash. All you need is a spray bottle, one tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons vinegar, and 1 cup water. Put the ingredients in the spray bottle and shake well. Spritz on your produce, and rinse well.

The dollar store has inexpensive spray bottles, perfect for your new organic produce wash. If you happen to have an eager toddler like mine, who just happens to have an independent streak a mile wide, you can spray your produce as soon as you get it home, and no longer worry about what nasty pesticides might be ingested into their tender tummies.

[via:Curbly]

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Dye wool and silk with Kool-Aid and your microwave

Anna Sattler — 2008-04-18T18:00:00+00:00

Filed under: in the kitchen, crafts, knitting and crochet

If you have a project coming up that requires a particular color of dyed wool or silk, look no further than your kitchen. If you have a microwave and a package of unsweetened Kool-Aid, you can dye wool and silk in just a few minutes.

Myrrhmaid takes us through the process of dyeing light colored protein fiber with Kool-Aid. To do this simple project, you'll need microwave safe bowls, such as Pyrex, a colander or salad spinner, a wooden skewer or spoon to stir the wool, a mesh laundry bag to put the dyed wool in when you spin it dry in the wash machine, your favorite color Kool-Aid, and of course, a microwave.

According to Myrrhmaid, the dye is colorfast and will not fade or bleed, even after repeated washings. She says you can also use the Kool-Aid dye technique to dye wool skeins, wool socks, knit or crocheted wool items and even silk. How much more simple could it be?

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Snake cake: Slithery birthday fun

Maggie Vink — 2008-04-15T10:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, kids

I adopted my son just after his 10th birthday so we decided to have a belated party. I asked him what shape of cake he wanted He thought about it and answered "rectangle... I'd like a rectangle cake."

When I was a kid my mom always baked up something fabulous every birthday. (My favorite was a Big Bird cake that used a frosted sugar cone for the beak.) So I explained to my son that he had more options besides round, square, and rectangular. He was really excited, but didn't quite know what to do.

After some searching on the internet, we settled on this snake cake. It was right up my son's alley, yet easy enough that I knew I could pull it off. It turned out terribly cute, if I say so myself! Want another creative cake idea? Check out this sushi cake.

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Homemade lollipops

Francesca Clarke — 2008-04-14T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, kids

Lollipops are the only reason that my boys tolerate haircuts. They are the first thing I poach out of their goodie bags and Halloween sacks. I even sneak downstairs at night for the occasional sugar-fix. I love lollipops, and now I can make my own!

Basically, you boil sugar, cream of tartar, and water. Add flavor and coloring, then pour them into molds or drop a serving size spoon-full onto wax-paper. Add the sticks, let them cool, and you've got homemade lollipops. The full instructions at that link explain important mixing techniques and boiling temperatures.

I'll admit that, reading through the recipe, I was slightly repulsed by the amount of sugar and lack of any other substantial ingredients. I'm sure you're wondering what on earth I expected from these solid sugar treats: they are, after-all, lollipops! Still, there is some reassurance in making the homemade version, because if you're looking for something a bit more natural, you can choose good flavorings and avoid the dyes.

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Taco seasoning from scratch

Debra McDuffee — 2008-04-10T10:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, health

If you are buying taco seasoning from the store in kits, you can save your self a lot of money -- and a lot of unneeded sodium! -- by making your own at home.

There are scads of recipes all over the internet, but over the last few years I have refined my DIY taco seasoning to be the perfect amount for one pound of meat and to suit my family's tastes. Here is what you'll need:

2 tsp. chili powder
1.5 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. oregano
dash of ground cayenne pepper
freshly ground black pepper to taste

If you like it spicy, add more cayenne; we are catering to the needs of a three-year-old.

I mix the spices in a small custard cup, and once I have begun browning the meat (I used ground turkey for the pictures in the gallery) and have broken it up, I add the seasonings. This meat works great for tacos, taco salad and anywhere else you would like taco meat. I suppose you could stuff a burrito, too.

So save the money on the kit: add just a 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and you'll have your own healthy taco seasoning.

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Make your own mozzarella cheese

Bethany Sanders — 2008-04-10T08:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, staying green

After reading Barbara Kingsolver's Animal, Vegetable, Miracle last fall, I was determined to change my ways. She makes it sound so easy, you know? I'd expand my garden, plant an asparagus patch, and, hmm, would the city allow me to keep chickens in the backyard? Maybe I'd even make my own cheese.

Sometimes, I dream big.

But making your own cheese, especially a softer cheese like mozzarella, isn't as hard as it sounds. Though Kingsolver makes it seem like it can be done in your sleep, it isn't technically that easy. But according to this post at Instructables, it doesn't take more than an hour or so, especially once you've gone through the process once or twice.You'll need a few items that might not be available at your typical grocery store, such as rennet and citric acid. According to Instructables, specialty grocery or health food stores are a good place to start, and rennet can usually be found in the pudding aisle. Otherwise, you should be able to gather what you need from your kitchen or local store.

Homemade mozzarella should keep in your fridge for three or four days, if you can keep yourself from eating it for that long!

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Wine cork trivet and coaster set

Anna Sattler — 2008-04-09T17:00:00+00:00

Filed under: home decor, in the kitchen, crafts, staying green

Mothers Day is coming up soon, and if you are looking for a great gift for your special mom, look no further than Abigail's cork trivet and coaster set.

Made from sliced wine corks, the trivet and coasters are the perfect way to recycle and reuse an item that you may otherwise just toss in the garbage. To make the trivet and coasters, you'll need about 10 or 12 corks which you will cut into slices so that each cork gives you about 8 to 10 slices. Stitch each cork together with two stitches and arrange the corks into your desired geometrical pattern.

Getting a needle through cork is a little difficult. Abigail's instructions don't really tell you how to get the needle and thread through the cork without getting frustrated, so check out these more detailed directions on making wine cork trivets from Still Dottie.

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Make carrot juice

Francesca Clarke — 2008-04-09T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, health

A new juice bar just opened in our neighborhood. They serve any blend of fruit and veggie juice that you could imagine. They use fresh, organic ingredients, and present the drink in a trendy, branded cup.

For this, you'll pay $5.50. Seriously, for blended carrots, I just can't.

Vegetable juices are popular on health detox and other cleanses, but they taste great too, and can be a healthy part of an everyday diet.

To make this carrot juice, you don't need a juicing machine; any food processor or blender will do just fine. You'll find more information after the break.

The directions are straightforward: blend the carrots, add hot water, strain the mixture, and let it stand. Optional steps include adding sugar or fresh orange juice. The orange juice adds great flavor, and, in my opinion, renders the sugar unnecessary.

Carrot is one of my favorites, but I don't see myself drinking it daily. If you're looking for a drink that's a bit more adventurous, here are some other great recipes:

As the weather gets nicer, I know I'll enjoy experimenting with homemade fruit and veggie juices on my back deck, instead of shelling out $5.50 per cup at the local juice bar.

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Fire extinguishers - which kind do you need?

Kelly Smith — 2008-04-07T11:00:00+00:00

Filed under: in the kitchen, recalls and safety, health

One of the worst fates to befall family and home is a raging fire. The result can be a small as a nuisance clean-up job to the worst of all - the death of one or more family members. Having fire extinguishers close at hand can make the difference. But not all extinguishers are the same. Let's have a look...

Type A: for use on paper, plastics, and wood.
Type B: for use on gasoline, paint thinner, or other flammable liquid.
Type C: for use on electrical fires.
Type D: for use on flammable metals.
Multi-class types: These are a combination of two or more of the above types. Often, these are the most handy to have around the home.

The key to using an extinguisher effectively is summed up as PASS.

Pull the pin.
Aim the nozzle.
Squeeze the handle.
Sweep the spray at the base of the fire.

Be sure all members of the family know how to do this. As cheap as fire extinguishers are, it wouldn't hurt to buy a few and practice so the reaction in an emergency will not be confusion and panic.

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Make reusable tea bags

Anna Sattler — 2008-04-07T08:00:00+00:00

Filed under: household hacks, in the kitchen, staying green, sewing

Once in a while, I forgo my great love of coffee for a cup of tea. Tea is soothing to the soul, and leaves me feeling like I just relaxed all my worries away, even if it is just for a few minutes.

If you are a tea lover, and drink the stuff all day long, all those tea bags adding up seems very wasteful. You only use them once or twice and then end up throwing them in the garbage, unless you have used Francesca's tips on reusing tea bags.

Craft Leftovers has an image tutorial that tells us how to make our own cloth teabags that can be used over and over again. You'll need a small piece of muslin cloth, string, an awl to makes the holes, and needle and thread to stitch the thread into the bag.

For those of us that are into reusing an item over and over again, making your own tea bags is a great step in our never ending quest to go green. The homemade tea bag can be washed over and over again, and the tea leaves can be added to our compost.

[via: Craft]

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Rice Crispie Treat alternative

Francesca Clarke — 2008-04-01T16:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, kids

Rice Crispy squares are a childhood staple. It is one of the simplest recipes, so little ones can be kitchen helpers early, as they count marshmallows into the pot, and give the cereal a strong armed stir. Unfortunately, these delicious treats are not something you'd want around the house too often, because they aren't exactly a healthy snack.

The alternative: use Cheerios instead. I use multi-grain cheerios, but you could really choose any kind you want. Marshmallows are marshmallows, and you can't really get around that. It's probably why these gooey treats are so popular, but switching up the cereal can go a long way towards reducing the caloric impact and mixing up the taste.

My mom has been known to hide even healthier cereals and seeds in these crispy squares. Kids will love them just as much, maybe more if you let them scavenge the cereal cupboard for other surprise additions.

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