DIY Life

The Daily Fix: Clean Melted Plastic Off Your Microwave

Erin Loechner — 2010-01-28T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: in the kitchen, ventilation

When I was younger (Ok, not that much younger, but younger still), I had this great idea to create a sixty-second chocolate fondue in the microwave. Big mistake. Not only did the chocolate chips burn in a bad way, but the plastic measuring cup fused to the bottom of my microwave.

After trying dozens of cleaners to get the plastic bulge off, I stumbled upon a few easy steps that did the trick. I'm happy to say my microwave is plastic-free! Here's how I did it:

1. Let the plastic cool and harden before attempting to clean any surface so as not to burn yourself.

2. Soak a dishcloth in household ammonia and wring out the excess gently, ensuring the dishcloth is still wet. Lay the soaked cloth on top of the melted plastic and allow the plastic to soak under the cloth for at least 15 minutes. At this point, I'd open windows and leave the kitchen, as ammonia and plastic can become toxic.

3. Rub the surface with an abrasive scouring pad; the plastic should come off in pieces and reveal a clean, non-stained surface!

If the above steps don't work, repeat the process a few times and try an ice scraper or credit card on the affected spot. It may take some scrubbing, but the ammonia should absorb the plastic after a few tries, making it easier to remove.

Another tip? After the plastic has been removed from the surface, it's a good idea to clear the air of plastic fumes. Place a bowl of equal parts lemon juice and water, then microwave on high for sixty seconds, or to boiling point. Keep the microwave door shut and let sit for a few hours. Your microwave will smell fresh in no time!

Looking to clean spills and splashes inside your microwave? Check out this tutorial on ShelterPop.

Want your microwave to multitask? Read Unusual Uses for Microwaves - 16 Sweet Ideas

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How to Paint a Laminate Countertop

Diane Rixon — 2010-01-27T14:30:00+00:00

Filed under: in the kitchen, kitchen, painting, Kitchen & Bath, Big Projects

Photo: INSIGHT-IMAGING, Flickr

Outdated, ugly laminate countertop making you cringe? Think twice before grabbing the crowbar for an impromptu demolition session! Laminate can be salvaged with paint, but only if you do it right. The key to a professional and long-lasting finish is careful surface preparation -- and lots of patience.

Skill Level: Beginner and up

Cost: About $50. Cost will vary depending on the size of your countertop and whether or not you already own basic painting supplies.

Time Investment: The sheer number of coats required to paint over laminate means a lot of drying time...which, in turn, means the work must be spread out over the course of about a week. The amount of time spent sanding and painting will depend on the amount of laminate you wish to cover.

Additionally, this project will require patience both from you, the DIYer, and your entire family while the kitchen or bathroom countertop is out of commission during the curing process.

Supplies: Fine grit 180 or 220 sandpaper, vacuum cleaner and/or dust pan and brush, soft cloth, painter's tape, primer, paint, and clear acrylic or oil-based polyurethane. Unless you're using spray paints, you will also need a small angled paintbrush, a small or medium-sized roller and a paint tray.

Drop cloths are always useful, but they're a must-have if you are spray painting indoors. If you choose oil-based products, you'll need plenty of turpentine and rags for cleanup as well. Also, use a fan to improve ventilation if you're working in an enclosed space.

Oil or Acrylic? How to Choose.
Read the instructions carefully for each product before you buy. Acrylic (latex) is easiest to work with and cleans up with water. On the other hand, oil paints adhere better to ultra-smooth surfaces like laminate. They resist mildew more effectively, too.

Bear in mind, also, you can't paint over an oil-based paint or primer with acrylic. If you do select acrylic primers and paints, you'll want to finish with topcoats of glossy clear acrylic. DIYers using oil-based primer and paint, however, should use oil-based polyurethane to finish.

For this how-to, let's assume we've chosen oil-based products.

Directions:

1. Surface Preparation. Clean the countertop thoroughly with hot water and a little detergent to remove surface dirt and oils. Allow to dry completely. Next, sand lightly but evenly. Your goal here is to distress the top layer just enough to remove the sheen and encourage paint adhesion. (If the colored top layer is disappearing from sight, you're pressing too hard!)

Brush or vacuum, then wipe thoroughly with a damp cloth to eliminate remaining dust. Let dry then apply painter's tape around all edges to protect walls and mirrors.

2. Prime. Apply a quality oil-based primer. Begin by cutting in the edges and corners with the angled paintbrush. Next, cover the flat surface area using the medium-sized roller for smooth, even coverage. Alternatively, you may choose a spray-on primer.

Two coats of primer are usually recommended, but remember to allow the first coat to dry completely before starting on the second. The length of time required depends on the product, so check the label.

Tip: Consider using a no-sand primer. Standard primers work just fine and are low-cost. Certain specialty products, however, bond with the painted surface and eliminate the need for sanding, which -- let's face it -- is tedious and time-consuming.

B-I-N Shellac Base Primer, for example, dries quickly and can be painted over with oil or latex paint. Another product worth considering: Krylon Fusion for Plastic spray primer.

3. Paint. Once the second coat of primer is completely dry, it's time for the fun part. Whether you opted for a vibrant hue, a relaxing neutral or classic white, apply at least two coats of oil-based paint: a base coat and a top coat. Once again, you'll need to cut in the edges with your paintbrush before starting with the roller.

Tip: Get creative! Suburban Cottage blogger, AnNicole, used paint effects to makeover her dated burgundy bathroom countertop. She skillfully applied three creamy stone-like shades in succession to make the surface resemble travertine.

For a less time-consuming choice, consider textured spray paint. Tamra, of the blog Blissfully Domestic, chose a faux stone spray and got a gorgeous, realistic finish for her kitchen countertop. (Don't forget, though: textured paint will retain a bit of a bumpy finish even after a few coats of polyurethane. If you can't live with that, stick with regular paint.)

4. Finish. Protect your paint job with 3 or 4 coats of a clear, high-gloss topcoat. Once again, the product you choose will depend on whether your previous coats were acrylic or oil-based. Either way, ensure the surface is completely clear of dust before beginning. Allow plenty of drying time between coats and - most importantly - do not sand between coats.

5. Wait. Allow two or three weeks for the surface to cure completely. Yes, that's a long time and it may be very inconvenient. On the other hand, new countertops can easily cost $1,000 (if not much more), yet still involve weeks of waiting. So endure the curing process and keep reminding yourself how much money you're saving by DIYing it!

Care: Those who have painted their laminate countertops and blogged about it report the finish is very durable. At the same time, a painted surface will never be as tough as the original laminate. Keep your counter as clean and dry as possible and never leave puddles of water or any other liquid standing on the surface.

Take care to keep pots and pans off the countertop altogether. Alternatively, place them on hand towels or potholders to prevent scratches and dents. Never place hot pots and pans (or, in the bathroom, hot hair dryers or other styling appliances) directly on your countertop either. Always use a cutting board for food preparation.

And remember, never clean your painted countertop with abrasive cleaners or cleaning pads.

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The Daily Fix: Cover a Scratch on Your Painted Cabinet

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-01-26T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: fix-it, home decor, in the kitchen, weekend projects, kitchen, Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects

Photo: j / f / photos, Flickr

Problem: Your much-abused cabinet door sustains a scratch to its lovely painted surface. Now what? It's simple: just paint over the scratch. But what if you've already gotten rid of the leftover paint -- or you weren't the one who painted them to begin with? Luckily, there are a few easy ways to choose the cabinet's color match.

Solution #1: The old-fashioned way:

1. The dinged cabinet door will act as the best color-matching sample. Like upholstery, the color of paint will change slightly over time, depending on its exposure to sunlight and elements like kitchen grease. Unscrew your scratched cabinet door from the frame and take it to your local Home Depot or Lowe's. Both home centers offer color-matching services, so you can buy the perfect paint. Be sure to choose the same finish (likely semi-gloss) as the rest of your painted cabinets. You'll need just a quart.

2. Using an angled brush, cover the scratched area of your cabinet with paint. Use a small amount of paint on your brush, and make sure the it goes on smoothly. Apply more coats as needed to match the cabinet (let dry in between coats.)

Solution #2: iPhone to the rescue::

The second solution involves a So how can you color match your dinged dresser or the scratched media cabinet that's too heavy to be moved again in this lifetime? Just whip out your iPhone. Yes, there's an app for that. More info after the jump:

Benjamin Moore created a free app called ben Color Capture that lets you snap a picture of your turquoise armoire and instantly match it to one of the 3,300 hues in its color library. Shake your iPhone to see four coordinating colors and create a pretty color palette. You can save favorites for later. And, of course, the app helps you find the nearest Benjamin Moore retailer to you. Unlike the inspiration binder (~~stuffed~~ organized with tearsheets and color chips) that's never with you when you need it, you always have your phone with you to reference your color.

Dings are definitely easier to fix on painted furniture, but you can repair a big old scratch on a stained cabinet, too. Here's how:

1. Unscrew your cabinet door and bring it to your local home center to find a matching stain.

2. Use a lint-free rag to apply the stain over the scratch on your cabinet. Let dry.

3. Apply a coat of polyurethane with a foam brush to seal the wood. Apply more coats as needed (let dry between coats.)

So now you can really make those scratches just disappear.

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New Uses for Old Kitchen Cabinets

Diane Rixon — 2010-01-21T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: home decor, household hacks, in the kitchen, organization and storage, weekend projects, kitchen, Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Makeovers & Inspiration

Remove the doors from an old kitchen cabinet and use it to display collectibles. Photo: tanakawho, Flickr

Looking back on our 2005 kitchen renovation, there's one thing I wish I'd done differently: salvage the cabinets. Were they truly ugly? Or did I have vintage gems right under my nose and just not realize it?

So, before your old kitchen cabinets are hauled away, consider how you might be able to repurpose them elsewhere in the house. Maybe they could be relocated to the garage for general tool and odds-and-ends storage, for example.

If you boast a little DIY know-how, you can get even more creative. You can refinish and reinvent individual cabinets in endless -- and endlessly exciting -- ways! For starters, some adjustments and refinishing can produce "new" bedside tables or display cabinets for collectibles.

How about taking the doors off and turning them into bookshelves? Or leave the doors on larger cabinets and use them to corral toys or for craft and linen storage.

Are your cabinets super-sturdy? Here's a really clever idea: flip one onto its back, add rolling casters and you have a handy rolling storage bin. Use it to hold toys, magazines, blankets -- whatever you need. Add a cushion and it can serve double duty as a convenient ottoman or footstool.

Cabinets also make cozy sleeping quarters for rabbits, guinea pigs or other small animals. Just place it inside your pet's hutch or other enclosure. Caution: be sure to thoroughly strip off all the paint first and remove the cabinet entirely if your pet is a hard-core chewer. Also, remember that small pets should live primarily indoors for their safety and well-being.

Discover new functions for old cabinets outdoors, too. In a relatively weather-proof spot such as a front porch, back patio or greenhouse, cabinets can be a convenient place to stash those small garden tools you use most often. Secateurs, trowels, plant tags and fertilizer, for instance, could be stored here to save countless trips to the garage.

How about repurposing cabinets for mudroom shoe and boot storage? Or as handy recycling containers?

Finally, here's one tip especially for frequent online shoppers: turn a leftover cabinet into a front porch delivery box for large packages. Your orders will be protected from wet weather and the prying eyes of passersby. Just make sure to label it so your mail carriers know what it's there for.

Any other ideas for reinventing kitchen cabinets? I want to hear your crafty ideas!

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5 Favorites: Kitchen Tools and Gadgets

Erin Loechner — 2010-01-20T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: in the kitchen, Kitchen & Bath, Products & Materials

A few kitchen tools I can't live without! Credits (clockwise, from left to right): Goodman's, Target, Amazon, Amazon

Earlier this month, I decided to clean out my kitchen cabinets and shelves -- and I was thoroughly amazed at the amount of kitchen gadgets I turned up. The funniest part? I seem to be using and re-using the same five kitchen tools over and over again. So, in the spirit of awards season, I've assembled a winners' list of my five favorite go-to kitchen tools. The envelope, please...

Photo: Amazon

1. Magnetic Measuring Spoons, $7, Amazon

Yep, magnetic. These measuring spoons nest together for easy storage, but come apart when it's time for a quick use. Even better? The tiny tips are just small enough for a pinch of nutmeg. Comes in handy just about any time I'm cooking or baking.

Photo: Amazon

2. Le Creuset Large Silicone Spatula Spoon, $12, Amazon
Part spoon, part spatula (Hollywood would call the coupling a "Spoonula"), this single tool can be used in approximately 1,346 ways. Quote me on that.

Photo: Goodman's

3. Cuisinart Smart Stick Hand Blender, $28,
Why bring the hot pot of soup to the blender when you can bring the blender to the hot pot of soup? Genius.

Photo: Amazon

4. Polder See-Thru Triple Timer/Clock, $14, Amazon
Keep track of three different dishes --- at the same time. And the best part: a distinctly different alarm sounds for each dish.

Photo: Target

5. Good Cook Orbi SafeCut Can Opener, $13, Target
A can opener sans the sharp edges? Perfect for hungry kiddies craving a bowl of Chef Boyardee.

What about you? What are a few tools you simply can't live without?

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Home Ec: How to Clear a Clogged Drain

Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien — 2010-01-18T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: fix-it, in the kitchen, bathroom, kitchen, plumbing, Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: m4r00n3d, Flickr

My last New York rental was in a classic (old) Brooklyn brownstone. One of the not-so-charming details: you couldn't turn on the sink (in the bathroom or kitchen) for a split second while someone was showering, or they'd experience a surprise burst of scalding hot water. So yes, the plumbing needed an overhaul. But I did have clear drains.

Even with drain traps, sink and tub drains will get clogged over time; the soap residue and grease will just build up. I use green cleaners in my home, and you really don't need to use super toxic DranO to maintain drains. Here's the magic recipe for clear drains: boiling water, baking soda, and white vinegar.

Seriously, these pantry finds do the trick. Make it a habit to pour boiling water down your drains every week or so; it helps melt the grease. I simply do this with the leftover hot water from my kettle when I make tea. And periodically (say, every month), disinfect your drains with this little homemade recipe:

1. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cup of white vinegar (pour the vinegar down slowly as it will start to fizz up.)

2. Cover the drain and let it sit for a few minutes.

3. Then pour about a gallon of boiling water down the drain.

If you like to leave behind a fresh scent in your drains, I love Fresh Wave's Multi-Purpose Additive, which is made of natural plant oils. I pour a little down the drain, and this green cleaner does an amazing job of eliminating odors.

P.S. This drain solution is for maintaining drains that are relatively clear to start. If you have standing water already in your sink or tub, you'll first need to roll up your sleeves and grab the plunger.

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How to Clean a Garbage Disposal

Erin Loechner — 2010-01-14T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: fix-it, household hacks, in the kitchen, preventative maintenance, staying green, cleaning, Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: Charles and Hudson

So your kitchen smells horrid and it doesn't seem to be the usual culprits: trash cans, pet odors and expired sour cream in the fridge. What gives? Chances are, you need to clean out your garbage disposal.

Freshening your garbage disposal is fairly easy if you maintain a monthly routine of cleaning it out (I recommend using lemon peels or liquid bleach water). However, once your garbage disposal starts smelling less than fresh, you've got a bigger problem than a splash of bleach can fix. Odors form when hardened food residue begins to form among the pipes of your garbage disposal, so if you're smelling something from the depths of your sink, it's time to do a bit of emergency surgery:

1. Gather your supplies. You will need:

(a). 1 1/2″ rubber test cap
(b). 5 gallon bucket
(c). 1/2 cup of powdered oxygen bleach (OxiClean works well!)
(d). channel lock pliers

2. Remove the pipe connected to your disposal with the channel lock pliers. Keep your five gallon bucket handy to catch any drips.
3. Attach the rubber test cap to the pipe exiting the disposal (make sure it's tight to avoid leaks!).
4. Fill the unit with hot water just to the sink drain; then add 1/2 cup of powdered oxygen bleach. Let sit for one hour.
5. Turn on the disposal and allow the blades to agitate the water for a minute, or until a foam is created (whichever comes first).
6. Remove the rubber test cap and allow the water to drain into your five gallon bucket.
7. Carefully reattach the pipe with the channel lock pliers.
8. Test for leaks.

That's it! Although it seems complicated, cleaning out a garbage disposal is one of the easiest plumbing tricks around. Just wait until you graduate to shower pipes...

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Lengthen the Life of Your Dishwasher

Erin Loechner — 2010-01-13T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: fix-it, in the kitchen, preventative maintenance, cleaning, Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: Rohitn

Like most appliances, dishwashers often get neglected (until, of course, they suddenly stop doing their job). With a bit of routine maintenance, though, you can prolong the life of your dishwasher long after its sticker date. Here are a few easy tips for keeping your dishwasher in tip top shape:

1. Keep your hot water heater set to the temperature recommended by your dishwasher's manufacturer; you can locate this info in your user manual. Forgotten where you stashed that old manual? Try Google-ing the model of your appliance; many manufacturers post their product manuals online.

2. Run a monthly cleanse cycle on your dishwasher. Simply empty a packet of sugar-free lemonade where you normally place detergent and run the dishwasher through a normal cycle.

3. Check the interior racks of your dishwasher. If the paint is wearing off, consider investing in a dishwasher repair kit to prevent scratches on your pots and pans.

4. Soak the spray arm with diluted vinegar monthly to clean off any scum build-up.

5. Be sure to regularly check the food trap for any residue that may have been acquired in a few weeks time.

So go ahead, show your dishwasher a little TLC -- and avoid those dreaded prune hands!

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How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

Erin Loechner — 2010-01-12T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: fix-it, in the kitchen, Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: Quality Bath

There are few things more daunting than a leaky faucet. Not only is it a massive waste of precious resources, but the sound alone is enough to drive a grown woman batty. Luckily, we've got some super simple steps for fixing that faucet leak -- forever. Ready?:

1. Shut the water off under the sink.
2. Close the sink drain and cover with a rag to catch any loose parts that may fall below.
Note: It's also a good idea to prepare your wrench with a layer of duct tape to prevent scratches on your fixture.
3. Find the culprit. Most leaky faucets are a result of a failed part, and the exact part can be easily located depending on which part is leaking. Although replacing your faucet is a simple task, it's important to identify the type of faucet, whether it be compression, cartridge (sleeve), ceramic disc and ball. Here, we break it down for you:

If your faucet is a compression: The most common culprit in a leaky compression faucet is the seat washer.

1. Pry off the decorative cap on the faucet's handle, remove the handle screw, pull off the handle and use a crescent wrench to unscrew the packing nut.

2. After unscrewing the stem, remove and replace the seat washer held in place by a brass screw. Coat the washers with nontoxic, heat-proof plumber's grease.

3. Pop the stem out of the packing nut and replace the O-ring, the culprit for leaky handles.
O-rings range in size from 3/8 to 5/8 in., so it's crucial to exactly match the size on your faucet. Coat the new O-ring with plumber's grease. Reassemble the faucet and tighten the packing nut. (Click here for more on compression faucets.)

If your faucet is a cartridge (sleeve):
1. Remove the faucet handles. Most are held on by retaining screws under the caps on the top of the handles. Then unscrew the large nut that holds the cartridge in.

2. Pull straight up on the cartridge to remove it. Use pliers if you have to, but be sure to protect the cartridge with tape or a rag. Note the orientation of the cartridge to the notches in the faucet so you can reinstall it the same way. Remove the old seat and spring with a small screwdriver.

3. Drop the new spring into the recess and push the new seat in with your finger. Spread a thin layer of plumber's grease around the cartridge. Push the cartridge into the faucet, aligning it with the notches. Then tighten the large retaining nut with the wrench and replace the handles.

If your faucet is a ceramic disc: Disc faucets leak when the inlet and outlet seals wear or when sediment builds up in the faucet inlets. Disc assemblies don't often wear out, but sometimes the inlet and outlet seals fail. Replace the worn seals with duplicates of the original ones (take the faulty ones with you when you buy replacements). Be sure to realign the seals on the bottom of the cartridge with the holes in the faucet.

If your faucet is a ball type: This type of faucet contains a lot of parts, and that often makes it difficult to find the cause of the leak. You can avoid the aggravation by buying a replacement kit and putting in all new parts.

1. First, remove the handle set screw and lift off the handle. Use adjustable pliers to remove the cap and collar.

2. Using the special tool included in the faucet-repair kit, loosen the faucet cam and lift it out along with the cam washer and the rotating ball. Reach into the faucet body with needle-nose pliers and remove the inlet seals and springs.

3. Next, cut off the O-rings, coat the new ones in nontoxic, heat-proof plumber's grease and roll them on.

4. Install new springs, valve seats and cam washers as you reassemble the faucet.

Another more expensive option for an older faucet is to replace the entire fixture. You'll need a basin wrench to do this.

Happy fixing!

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Kitchen Islands: Kitset vs. DIY

Diane Rixon — 2010-01-12T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: home decor, in the kitchen, weekend projects, Kitchen & Bath, Products & Materials

Photo: GROLAND Kitchen Island, IKEA

A kitchen island is the easiest way to add precious inches of counter space to your home. If you don't want to splurge on a custom job, you're left with two budget-friendly options: kitset or DIY. Let's look at some of the pros and cons of each approach.

Kitset Kitchen Island: Pros and Cons
Kitset kitchen islands -- the kind you buy ready-to-assemble -- are now available in a nice range of styles, from rustic to sleek modern. Although the best ones are far from cheap, they'll set you back far less than custom work. The other big advantage is convenience: kitset islands can be assembled by just about anyone.

Other pros: kitset islands are moveable, which can be useful when, for example, you are entertaining a crowd. If you sell your home, you can just disassemble your kitset and pack it up. Basically, if all you need is an extra place to stow pots, pans and cookbooks, the kitset is the most convenient solution.

Here's the big down side: you inevitably sacrifice quality when you opt for kitset furniture. In the case of kitchen islands, that lack of quality is most evident in the countertop material, which may not be durable enough to meet the needs of keen home cooks.

Kitchen Island Kitset Shopping
Going the kitset route? IKEA, the king of kitset, is the natural place to start looking. Unfortunately, IKEA offers only four kitchen islands right now, ranging in price from $199 for the GROLAND model (pictured) to $379 for the larger STENSTORP. Factor in the cost of shipping for those not within driving distance of an IKEA store and you're looking at quite a lot of money down. The pared-down style of IKEA's islands is another con: for your money, you're basically paying for a set of open shelves. If hiding clutter is important to you, look elsewhere.

Fortunately, Target comes to the rescue with an impressive selection of kitset islands. Although not necessarily sturdier than the IKEA islands, Target's kitsets at least come with drawers and/or cabinets for a more finished look, which some find more appealing than open shelving. The prices are higher, but select models come with free shipping. Expect to pay upwards of $500 for a Target island (the company's Grand Americana model is a whopping $929, although that includes free shipping right now); less than $500 will get you a nice little rolling cart, but definitely not a full-size kitchen island.

DIY Kitchen Island Pros and Cons
Kitset furniture not your thing? The DIY route is your best bet if you've got the time and talent to make your own kitchen cart-- or, if not talent, at least a willingness to learn as you go! Done right, the end result should be far sturdier than a kitset version. You can also tailor it to fit your needs. For example, you might opt for a built-in style instead of a free-standing island. In that case, you might consider adding electrical outlet/s and/or plumbing, too.

A DIY kitchen island can also incorporate a much higher quality countertop than kitset versions. Think butcher block wood, powerful granite or a tough solid surfacing product, such as Corian. These not only look great, they will last forever and resist chips and dents.

DIY Kitchen Island Know-How
The Web contains a wealth of instruction for would-be kitchen island DIY'ers. Start by gathering design ideas through keyword searches (try Google Images) or home and garden websites. Photo galleries like this one courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens are especially helpful.

Next you'll need a step-by-step guide to follow. Do It Yourself has a lengthy kitchen island article worth checking out that includes lots of design advice. It's a good place to start.

I really liked Ron Hazelton's kitchen island how-to. It breaks the project down into simple steps and includes lots of helpful photos. This one is ideal for beginner or intermediate carpenters. You'll assemble the whole thing by hand, but it's made from modular, ready-made cabinets with a butcher block countertop.

Using modular cabinets for the base gives you a sturdier and more workable storage area than an IKEA kitset, but with some of the convenience of kitset assembly. Great idea, right?

Also take a look at Popular Mechanics' kitchen island project. This one is a true from-scratch version. It's not very large, but it's a perfect little DIY project if you want to practice your woodworking skills. Read the article then click to download and print the plans.

Beginner DIY'er? If you're having second thoughts, wondering if a kitchen island is beyond your current skill level, try starting with a simple rolling cart project like this one from Home Envy. It'll let you test out your DIY/carpentry abilities without biting off more project than you can chew!

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Craft a DIY Knife Block in Two Hours

Erin Loechner — 2010-01-06T10:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, household hacks, in the kitchen, Crafts, Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Crafts & Celebrations

Photo: Cool Hunting

You've seen it, right? The unbelievably slick Schaschlik knife block I've been eyeing for months? Surely I'm not the only one.

In fact, I'm definitely not the only one. Fellow DIY crafter Chris Diclerico craved the same design, yet rather than shelling out $110 for the original, Chris got to work and created his own Schaschlik hack. And after checking out the Flickr photos of his creation, I'm loving Chris' design almost as much as the original.

If you're comfortable working with a table saw, you absolutely should try this! You'll need a few wood planks (Chris used 3' laminated pine shelves from Home Depot), wood glue, finishing nails, an orbital sander, water-based varnish, and a whole slew of bamboo skewers (Chris used 2,300!) for holding the knives in place. Make sure you find skewers that are long enough for at least the length of the blade of your longest knife.

Happy crafting!

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The DIY Reel: Organization Secrets for Your Kitchen

Erin Loechner — 2009-12-17T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: in the kitchen, cleaning, Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Storage & Organization, Know-How

With holiday entertaining at its peak, it's time to get organized! Luckily, our resident AOL decor expert Kelly Edwards is here to share her top notch organizational methods for the kitchen -- perfect for anyone in need of some calm amidst the storm of holiday entertaining.

I love Kelly's idea for crafting your own chalkboard paint. How lovely would it be to keep a bright sunny yellow chalkboard in your kitchen as a grocery list? Better yet, paint your entire cabinets in a DIY chalkboard paint for endless list-making fun.

Not into chalkboards? Try a fun DIY pin board solution with Kelly's easy instructions. Proof that kitchen organization is sometimes as easy as making one handly list (and checking it twice, of course!).

Thanks for the tips, Kelly!

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Daily DIY: Silly Putty Saver

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-26T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: household hacks, in the kitchen, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: BrandChannel

Did you know you can use Silly Putty for a lot more than your kid's elementary school science project? Turns out the crazy clay makes a pretty great grip tool when trying to open that stubborn jar of pickles.

Simply place some Silly Putty on your palms and wrap around the jar or bottle. The clay's adhesive nature and texture will give you a better grip and you'll have the jar open in no time flat. Forget burns and rubs on your palms and get thee to the craft center!

And don't worry --- if you can't find Silly Putty at your local market, or if it's too pricey or kid-like, make do with what you have! Watch this video on how to make silly putty with stuff you probably have on hand or in the pantry. You'll have a handy jar opener in no time -- for less than five bucks!

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HowNow: Make Homemade Ice Cream with a Plastic Bag

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-23T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, household hacks, in the kitchen

I know; I'm having my doubts, too. Yet I'll admit; it looks mighty tempting! Check out the written instructions below!:

How To Make Homemade Ice Cream in a Plastic Bag on Howcast

Step 1: Put ingredients in smaller bag
Put the milk and sugar in the quart-sized bag and seal it. For vanilla ice cream, add vanilla extract; for chocolate ice cream, add cocoa powder. Throw in a quarter of a cup of chocolate or butterscotch chips if you like.

TIP: Experiment with other varieties by using ½ to 1 tsp. of flavored syrups like strawberry or caramel or extracts like lemon or almond.

Step 2: Make an ice bag
Put the ice and the salt in the gallon-sized bag.

Step 3: Put small bag inside big one
Put the smaller bag inside the bigger bag and seal it.

Step 4: Shake it
Shake the larger bag vigorously for seven to 10 minutes.

TIP: Wear winter gloves while you shake; the bag is cold!

Step 5: Enjoy
Remove the small bag, which now contains ice cream. Snip a hole in the corner of the bag and squeeze it into a dish. Makes one serving.

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Daily DIY: Cleaning with... Tea?

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-23T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, household hacks, in the kitchen, cleaning, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: Erl-G

I'm an avid tea drinker, so I was thrilled to hear that tea bags can also double as a cleaning solution. I know you're rolling your eyes in exasperation, but it's true! Because tea can effectively remove grease and grime on mirrors, floors and surface areas, it makes a great cleaning solution (as long as you wipe it thoroughly!).

Boil a few old tea bags and use the brew to mop your flooring and wipe down any countertops or unpainted wooden surfaces. Remember --- wipe thoroughly to avoid tie-dyeing your entire kitchen! I wish I were kidding... ;)

Want some even better news? Tea can be used for a variety of household hacks in your home. In fact, our very own DIY Life has a round-up of 15 creative uses for tea bags. My favorite? An all-natural wart remover, thanks to the tannic acid in black tea. Pretty cool, right?

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Daily DIY: De-Stale Your Bread

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-20T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: RecipeTips.com

So -- you're craving a ham sandwich but notice your bread is going a bit stale. Don't worry --- it's not bird food quite yet; you still have time to save it! Place a stick of fresh celery in the bag and store the bread for a few hours. Next time you pull it out, you'll notice the bread is fresher than before, and your celery hasn't changed a bit! Add some peanut butter and you've got yourself a fresh, non-stale meal (but don't tell the birds we told you!).

And since we're talking bread, did you see Monday's video tutorial on How to Make a French Baguette? So easy, yet so scrumptious. Luckily, our stale bread hack works equally well for any sort of bread, so if you happen to make a fresh baguette and haven't had time to devour it, you know what to do!

Proof that celery can work wonders both for your diet and your starch!

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How to Keep Cookies Fresh

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-19T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: Dallas News

Who, me? Yes. I'll admit it -- I'm a cookie monster and am seeking help. I like to keep our cookie jar stocked and fresh, and although there usually isn't much of a chance for stale cookies in our home, it does happen time and again. Turns out my grandma has a secret trick for keeping cookies fresh longer --- a wad of tissue paper!

Simply wad up the tissue paper and place it at the bottom of the cookie jar, then pile the cookie goodness on top! We both have no idea why it works, but can vouch for the fact that it does!

And of course, you'll need a yummy recipe to try out our tip, won't you? Try these peanut butter butterscotch cookies from Cooks.com; they are simply delicious!:

1 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup Nestles Butterscotch morsels
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon vanilla

Enjoy!

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Daily DIY: Clumpless Brown Sugar

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-17T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, household hacks, in the kitchen, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: Joyrich

I've heard a variety of different methods for keeping your brown sugar de-clumped, and to be honest, I'm a bit wary of each one. Here's a breakdown of what the grapevine says about keeping your brown sugar fresh --- why not give it a shot and report back with your findings?:

According to ThriftyFun:
Store brown sugar you plan to save for later baking in an airtight container with a fresh slice of bread. The moisture in the bread will keep your sugar soft, moist, and ready-to-use. When the bread dries and hardens, simply replace it with a fresh slice. You can feed the old, dry one to the birds and squirrels.

From WiseGeek:
If your brown sugar is hard as a brick, you can restore it to a usable consistency by placing it in a tightly sealed container with an apple wedge for one to three days.

From WiseGeek:
You can purchase a terracotta disk at many kitchen supply stores that will keep your brown sugar free flowing.

Which sounds like the real deal to you? Any brown sugar tips you swear by?

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HowNow: How to Make a French Baguette

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-16T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen

I'm on bread duty this Thanksgiving and would love to bake a few homemade creations. Looks like I'll be tuning in to this great video -- and stat!:

How To Make a French Baguette on Howcast

Here are your step-by-step instructions!:

Step 1: Mix the flour and salt
Mix the flour and salt in a medium-size bowl.

Step 2: Combine yeast and water
Put the yeast, water, and half the flour mixture in a large bowl and mix it together with your hands until it's doughy. Cover with a clean dishcloth and let it sit at room temperature for three hours, until it more than doubles in size.

Step 3: Add remaining flour
Using your hands, mix the remaining flour mixture into the dough.

Step 4: Knead it
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Oil a bowl
Place the dough in a large, lightly-oiled bowl, turning the dough around in the bowl so it gets covered with oil. Cover with a dishcloth and let it sit for another hour. It should nearly double in size.

Step 6: Preheat oven
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and knead the dough one more time for about five minutes before dividing it into three parts. Roll each part into a long baguette with your hands, and let them rise in a warm, draft-free spot, for another half hour.

Step 7: Slash and moisten
Make four lengthwise slashes on top of the loaf with a sharp knife, going no deeper than ¼ inch. Lightly spritz or brush the top with cool water. If you're not using the baking stone, cover an upside-down baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle it with cornmeal.

Step 8: Bake
Place a medium-size bowl filled halfway with water on the bottom rack of the oven. Bake the baguettes in the middle of the oven on the baking stone or sheet. Remove the bowl after 15 minutes. Continue baking the bread until golden, 20 to 30 minutes total.

Good luck!

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Daily DIY: Defrost with Delight

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-13T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, household hacks, in the kitchen, Essential Skills, Know-How

Photo: Bon Appetit

That's right -- another day, another vinegar hack. Oh, you act as if you're surprised! This one's a goodie; I promise. And in the kitchen, no less! Perfect for your upcoming holiday dinner party or fancy, festive feast.

Here's the deal: Next time you thaw out that frozen chuck roast, pour some vinegar over it. Not only does it tenderize the meat, but it will also bring down the freezing temperature of the meat and cause it to defrost quicker. And no, your meat will not taste like vinegar; don't worry. Cool, right?

Now you have no excuse for a still-frozen turkey on Thanksgiving Day!

For additional kitchen hacks with one of my favorite ingredients (vinegar!), check out a few other helpful DIY Life articles:
-Daily DIY: Vinegar Fix
-Vinegar: Laundry's Best Friend
-Vinegar: Not Just for Salad's Anymore!
-Vinegar's Slew of Wonderful Uses
-Remove Mold With Vinegar

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