Smudge Pot Lighting Instructions

Smudge pots were traditionally used to protect orchards from freezing.

A smudge pot is a metal container holding oil that produces a great deal of smoke when it is lit. The neck of the pot contains a piece of wood or wick that has been soaked in kerosene, diesel fuel or another oil. Combustion is regulated by a series of holes on the filler cap. Smudge pots were used to protect fruit orchards from freezing until they were replaced by cleaner orchard burners after World War II. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Examine the wick or wood piece to ensure that it is soaked with oil. Open up the fuel chamber on the smudge pot, and check if it is full enough to keep the wick or piece of wood in the neck saturated and the smudge pot burning. Fill the fuel chamber if needed and then close it.

2. Set the smudge pot on a stand or a clear ground area. Ensure that the smudge pot placement is stable to prevent it from accidentally tipping over and starting a fire. Do not place the smudge pot in an enclosed area. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

3. Adjust the flue by turning the filler cap to partially open a few holes on the cap to let oxygen into the smudge pot's combustion chamber to mix with the fumes of the fuel. Fully open holes will produce a large burst of flame when the smudge pot is lit, while partially open filler-cap holes will produce a more controlled flame.

4. Roll up long sleeves and push back long hair out of the way. Stand back at least a foot from the smudge pot as you prepare to light it; the oil fumes are volatile and will push a quick burst of flame from the smudge pot when it is first lit.

5. Light a long butane lighter, and touch its flame to the tip of the wick or piece of wood protruding from the smudge pot. Move away from the smudge pot as it begins to let out smoke. Do not touch the smudge pot after it has been lit as the metal container heats up quickly.

Tags: from smudge, piece wood, burst flame, from freezing, fuel chamber, holes will, holes will produce

Shape A Jacaranda Tree

The jacaranda grows 30 to 50 feet tall.

Jacaranda trees are native to Brazil and are often used in urban landscapes. The trees produce bright purple or blue flowers, and can act as deciduous trees in some climates. Jacarandas have an attractive natural umbrella shape, so gardeners should avoid pruning them to alter the shape. Shaping a jacaranda should be limited to removing shoots and suckers that are growing outside the natural canopy. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Wait until winter when the tree goes dormant before you shape it. The jacaranda tree flowers on current season's growth, so if you prune them in the spring or summer you will stop the tree from flowering.

2. Cut back any dead or damaged branches. They may not interfere with the shape of the tree now, but they will not flower and will cause the tree to look unattractive during the growing season.

3. Cut back any shoots growing out of the roots or out of the base of the tree. Cut them back to the trunk or soil. Cut back any shoots that appear below the main canopy of the tree. They interfere with the natural umbrella shape of the canopy.

4. Avoid pruning any of the main branches of the canopy because this will result in unattractive vertical shoots that interfere with the tree's natural shape. If you have already pruned these branches, maintain the tree's shape by cutting the vertical shoots off every year.

Tags: interfere with, back shoots, natural umbrella, natural umbrella shape, shoots that

Write A Concept Essay

Writing a concept essay is one of the simpler essays for students to write.

Students in high school and college may find it difficult to put together a coherent essay because they have not yet learned the basic mechanics of essay writing. One of the easier essays to write that can help students learn write a proper essay is the concept essay. Rather than provide an argument on behalf of, or against a particular argument, a concept essay instead presents a controversial topic and the reason why it is controversial. When writing a concept essay, there is no need to try to persuade the reader.

Instructions

1. Research the issue or controversy that is the topic of your paper. Students have difficulty writing essays because they fail to understand their topic and attempt to write on it without fully understanding what they are writing about. When writing a concept essay, you need to fully research both sides of the controversy so that you can present an unbiased, yet informative, essay on the topic at hand.

2. Create an outline to guide your writing. An outline should consist of an introduction, body and conclusion, as will the paper. The body should consist of two major sections outlining both sides of the issue. The conclusion summarizes the paper, but does not need to be written during the outlining stage.

3. Write the introduction. Because you are not making an argument or trying to persuade the reader, your introduction does not need to contain a strong thesis statement. Instead, the thesis statement should introduce the importance of the topic. For instance, it the paper covers the arguments for and against cloning, the thesis statement might include a statement about the implications of cloning for the issue of human rights.

4. Develop the body of the paper. Since you are exploring two sides of a major issue, this will be the focus of the paper's body. You can either explore the issue from one side and then the other or you can do a point-by-point comparison throughout the paper. Avoid asserting your own opinion in the paper. Treat the topic as if you were a newspaper reporter reporting an issue for the first time.

5. Conclude the paper with a summary of what you have already written. Your introduction told the readers what was going to be in the essay, the body provided the meat of the essay and the conclusion should reiterate what was written in the essay and introduction.

Tags: concept essay, thesis statement, because they, both sides, controversy that, does need

Paint A Room Mexican Style

Painting a room in a Mexican style makes a striking design statement. Mexican interior decor is often bold and colorful, reflecting the spirit of the Mexican people, who are proud of their vibrant heritage and culture. Wall finishes are textured with rough adobe and stucco, intensely colored, and covered with bright and rustic patterns. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Prepare the room by securing plastic tarp over the floor to catch any spills while you work. Tape the tarp down or weight it at the corners and middle. Remove any light switch and outlet covers and set them aside until the room dries. Open blinds and tie up cords; remove curtains to give yourself clear access to every wall.

2. Consider adding texture to your walls before you paint. Much of Mexican architecture uses stucco for interior and exterior walls. To create a rustic stucco look, smear drywall putty on your walls with a trowel. Leave the trowel marks visible rather than smoothing them down. Let the putty dry completely before applying paint.

3. Tape off the joints between walls and ceilings, along floor baseboards, around window and doorframes and over light switches and outlets. Use wide painter's tape to prevent "accidental paint" on the wall/ceiling connections.

4. Plan a "tile rim": Pencil in a three-inch high strip of space along one or more walls at about waist height. Leave this strip unpainted when you apply your wall color.

5. Use rollers or brushes to paint the walls with a vibrant warm base color: choose from deep reds, golden yellows or light earth browns. Let the first coat dry, then apply a second coat to deepen the colors. If the results are too bold for you, try glazing the walls to mute the colors, or try the dustier variations of these colors, like terra cotta or maize.

6. Accent the room by painting the window frames and door frames and any other fixtures either bright blue or green.

7. Go back to the "tile rim." Paint the strip the same color as your accent color for the room. When it dries, pencil in a colorful Mexican tile design and paint in the details. Or find wall stickers in the style of Mexican tiles to apply over the base strip and add an eye-catching accent to your walls.

Tags: your walls, walls with

Replace Keys For An Armoire

Sometimes a skeleton key can open old locks.

Armoires come in many shapes and sizes and can be used for a variety of purposes. Some armoires house a desk surface while others are large enough to accomodate clothing or boxes. If you need a copy of the key or have lost the original keys you can get a new key or copy produced. If you need to lock the armoire or are locked out of the armoire, there are professionals who can assist. Since many armoires are also antiques it is important to have a locksmith who is precise and has experience with old locks. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Locate a skeleton key if you have lost the original keys or need an extra key. Skeleton keys can be found in a variety of locations such as hardware stores, antique stores, and from vendors such as Sears, Home Depot, Amazon and eBay. Often skeleton keys will open old antique locks. Attempt to insert the key into the armoire lock and turn.

2. Take one of the armoire keys to a locksmith, preferably a locksmith who specializes in antiques or in furniture. Request at least one copy to be made. Test the copies when finished to ensure they open the armoire locks. Standard key makers may not have the knowledge or equipment needed to produce a replica of an antique furniture key.

3. Request that a furniture restorer or locksmith who works with old locks come to inspect the armoire and make a key copy based off the original lock itself. This is advisable if you have lost the keys, skeleton keys don't work, or a copy made has failed to operate properly. A skilled locksmith or restorer will be able to inspect the lock and fashion a workable key based on the design of the actual lock instead of a key copy.

Tags: have lost, copy made, furniture Request, have lost original, lost original, lost original keys

Styles For Making Your Own Headboard

The headboard is often the focal point of any bedroom.

If you choose to design and build your own headboard, you have the freedom to create one that will perfectly meet your needs. Your bed is the focal point of your bedroom, so this is your opportunity to make a big statement in your room scheme. You could choose to add a personal touch to an old headboard by simply changing the color or adding fabric. Or, you can start from scratch building your headboard that is custom fit for your bedroom design scheme. Does this Spark an idea?

Storage

If storage is an issue in your bedroom, you may choose to make a headboard that features organized space to house your belongings. For this style, you may choose to repurpose an old shelving unit or bookshelf to function as a headboard to store books, picture frames or other decorative items. If you make your headboard on your own, you will want to make measurements according to the height and width of your mattress, adjusting accordingly you so you can sit up comfortably in your bed without hitting your head on the headboard. If the storage is too low or too deep, it may become a nuisance.

Upholstered

Upholstered headboards can be made to fit with any design scheme. They are also one of the easier headboard styles to accomplish. This style can be appropriate for any bedroom décor; the fabric will be what makes your headboard fit aesthetically in your space. Coordinate your upholstered headboard with your bedding, curtains and rugs. This fabric can be used to emphasize a certain type of décor. For example, a toile fabric will highlight a French Country décor.

Tufted

A tufted headboard is also made of upholstery foam, cotton batting and fabric. Like ordinary upholstered headboard, it is ideal for resting against as a headboard. What makes a headboard tufted are the buttons inserted through the fabric through the back of the headboard and causing a tuft in the fabric. To accomplish this headboard style, holes are predrilled in the back of the headboard. Once the foam, cotton and fabric are in place, a button is threaded through and pulled tight. This adds a level of elegance to a headboard, while offering another opportunity to add a decorative touch to the bed.

Tags: your bedroom, your headboard, back headboard, bedroom choose, design scheme, fabric will

Tropical Plants That Will Grow In North Texas

The term tropical plants is applied to plants that are native to the areas around the equator and thrive in hot and humid climates. The climate of north Texas is humid and sub-tropical with hot summers and regular rain throughout the year, which is conducive to growing tropical plants. The north Texas region of Texas lie about 250 miles north of the Gulf of Mexico with Dallas Forth-Worth as one of its major cities. The region has mild winters with occasional, short-lived extreme winters. Does this Spark an idea?

Texas Sabal Palm

Texas sabal palm (Sabal texana) is a tropical tree found in north Texas. The tree has a slow growth habit and is also referred to as Mexican palmetto. Texas sabal palm is a cold-tolerant palm with medium water requirements. The relatively high tolerance of cold makes it one of the best palms for north Texas areas. The tree is tolerant of salty soil with a soil alkalinity of 7.5, poorly drained ground and drought. The trees' fruits and seeds are eaten by a variety of wildlife. Texas sabal palm has fan shaped, large, blue-green leaves and rounded crown. The tree grows to a mature height of 20 to 48 feet.

Hibiscus

Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is a tropical native of China and Southeast Asia. Hibiscus plants bloom with flowers 3 to 10 inches across in vibrant shades of orange, pink, red, yellow, lavender, gold, gray, blue and gold. Hibiscus thrives in north Texas as the plants prefer warm temperatures of 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Hibiscus is extremely tolerant of heat and humidity, and blooms prolifically from early summer to frost with minimal care. Hibiscus plants are large shrubs with heights of up to 8 feet depending on variety. The plants prefer areas of full sun and rich, fertile soil.

Plumeria

Plumeria (Frangipani) are popular large shrubs or small-sized tropical trees that thrive in north Texas weather. The trees are grown for their highly fragrant, attractive flowers. Plumeria is a native of the Pacific Islands, Caribbean and South America and can grow up to 30 or 40 feet high in the hot and humid tropical weather of north Texas. Plumeria has leathery foliage on thick, succulent stems and blooms from the start of summer to early fall with 2- to 4-inch flowers in all shades of red, white, yellow and pink. Plumeria grows in areas of full sun or light shade and well-drained ground.

Tags: north Texas, sabal palm, Texas sabal palm, areas full, Hibiscus Hibiscus

The Best Kid'S Furniture

Choose safe and fun children's furniture.

Choosing furniture for your child's bedroom or playroom, or simply kid-friendly furniture for your house in general, can be a challenge because there is a wide variety of options on the market. The most important element to consider when selecting the best furniture for your kids is structural quality and durability, because this furniture will be climbed on and abused for many years. You can follow some simple guidelines to help you choose this furniture. The Best Furniture for Kids website contains reviews and recommendations that can also help. Does this Spark an idea?

Safe Furniture

When choosing furniture for younger children who are beginning to walk and explore their surroundings, it is imperative that you choose items with rounded edges or that are covered by padding and fabric. Choosing a plush toy box or a soft recliner instead of one that has wooden or metal parts will help to create a safer environment for your child.. Early Childhood News, a website for parents and teachers, recommends checking any new children's furniture to ensure there are no small loose pieces that can act as choking hazards.

Multi-Use Furniture

Children will grow and develop quickly, so choosing furniture that is convertible or that serves several purposes will help you to save on money as well as space in your home. A crib that can later be converted into a toddler bed is a good investment that will be functional for many years (depending on the height of your child). Also, furniture that serves a dual purpose such as a chair or ottoman that opens up into a storage compartment can be useful in creating an organized environment for your child.

Colorful Furniture

Selecting furniture that suits your child's personal style is a great way to let them express themselves in their room. Allow your kid to choose the color of the furniture if you are buying new items, or give old furniture a face-lift with a fresh coat of paint. You can also paint in designs such as strips or polka dots, or add decals to simple furniture to help give it a new and whimsical look.

Thematic Furniture

Choose furniture that will complement the room if your child has a fondness for an overall decorative theme. Children's furniture such as beds can be found in many creative shapes such as cars, boats or even a fairy princess castle. These furniture items are fun, but it is important to remember that they will not have much longevity past a few years, especially if the child's taste changes.

Tags: your child, furniture that, furniture your, Best Furniture, children furniture, environment your, environment your child

Replace A Speaker In A Guitar Amplifier

When a guitar amplifier speaker blows, not only does it sound bad, but it can also damage the guitar amplifier. Speaker impedance, or load, changes when the amplifier is damaged, and this can change the amount of electricity running through the guitar amplifier. Speaker replacement is fairly easy, though, once a replacement has been found. Read on to learn replace a speaker in a guitar amplifier.

Instructions

1. Unplug the amplifier from guitar and electrical socket. Remove any cables and accessories stored in the back of the amplifier. Place it face down on a stable surface to allow easy access through the back.

2. Disconnect the wires going to the bad speaker. Pull the connector, not the wire, and use pliers if necessary. If the wires are not color-coded (typically red is positive and black is negative), use a marker to identify where they should mount. This is crucial in an amp with multiple speakers. Mis-wiring will put the speakers out of phase.

3. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding in the speaker. If the speaker is held on with nuts, remove them with a socket driver or pliers.

4. Place the new speaker in position. Replace screws, or nuts, in opposite pairs (for example, replace the screw at the noon position, then the 6 o'clock position) but do not tighten.

5. Tighten screws only after all have been replaced. Reconnect the wires running to the guitar amplifier speaker. Return the amp to an upright position and replace any gear stored in back.

6. Plug the amplifier into the guitar and wall.

Tags: guitar amplifier, amplifier Speaker, amplifier speaker, guitar amplifier Speaker, guitar amplifier speaker

Reupholster An Office Chair

Office Chair

Although it sounds intimidating, reupholstering an office chair is actually one of the easiest pieces of furniture to recover. The fabric necessary to finish the job is minimal, and the entire process is quite uncomplicated.

There is no sewing involved. Within a short time, you can give your office chair a completely new look. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Disassemble the office chair by removing the back of the chair, the back pad, the seat and the seat pad.

2. Remove the old fabric from the chair back and seat pad.

3. Measure the fabric requirements with the tape measure. Add two inches to all edges for stapling the new fabric under the pads.

4. Cut out the chair back and the seat pad pieces from the fabric.

5. Lay the chair back fabric piece on a work surface with the wrong side facing up. Place the chair back piece over the fabric and center it. Begin to staple the fabric to the chair back. Place the first staple in the center of one edge. Pull the fabric tight and staple directly across from the first staple into the opposite edge. Repeat with the remaining two edges. Fill in around the entire edge with staples, pulling the fabric tight.

6. Repeat the same process with the seat pad and the seat pad fabric.

7. Check to make sure that no fabric is covering the plugs on the pads that need to be inserted back into the chair to reassemble the chair. Trim excess fabric.

8. Push the seat and chair back pads back into their places onto the chair. With careful pressure, they should snap back into place to finish the reupholstering project.

Tags: chair back, back into, back seat, chair back seat, fabric chair, fabric chair back, fabric tight

Ideas For Corporate Donations

Some people believe that mild generosity brings wealth.

When a corporation donates money the outcome should support its ideals including the ideals of the board of directors, the employees, the vast majority of customers and the business partners. Exercise caution when selecting your cause and methods of donation. A good corporate sponsorship can strengthen your company's future while a bad corporate sponsorship can get you blacklisted by various organizations and groups of consumers.

Democratic Charity Election

Instead of using the company's future goals to choose a charity for donations, ask your employees. Perform a democratic charity election and allow your employees to create a list of possible charities that would receive money from your company. Remove any charities that support non-universal causes, such as charities that act against minority groups or foundations that have reputations that may endanger the company's wellbeing.

From the remaining list, with possible organizations such as the ASPCA or Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, allow your employees to choose where the corporate sponsorship goes. In addition to taking some of the weight of choosing from the company's bosses, this method allows the employees to get actively involved in charitable methods.

Scholarships

Many major corporations currently give scholarships to students, including Coca-Cola, Dell and the CEOs of Walmart and Microsoft, according to the Scholarships website. Corporate scholarships allow companies to create and support a future in this world that stands by the same values and missions.

Scholarships train potential employees or fund the development of future employees. When creating the scholarship, you may need to form a non-profit organization to handle the scholarship. Make your scholarship requirements reflect the future needs of your company.

Cause Awareness

Almost every corporation deals in a product or service associated with a human problem. Pharmeceutical corporations solve health problems, hospitality companies fix problems of isolation and staffing corporations try to deal with unemployment problems. One of the best ways to support your corporation's interests is to donate money to "your" cause. By teaming up with a charity that also tries to support your cause, you become a beacon of hope for your customers, showing kindness instead of greed to the very people who buy your product.

Tags: charities that, corporate sponsorship, your cause, your company, your employees, allow your

Make A Sofa Bed For A Camper

Trying to find furniture to fit your camper may cause you to decide that making your own would better suit your needs. If you want to make a sofa bed that fits the space you have or just want to add a personal touch to your space with your own sofa bed creation, you can assemble and create a sofa bed frame in the Mission style that can be enhanced with a few personal design touches of your own.

Instructions

1. Measure the space where your sofa bed will be located. Determine the measurements you will need to fit the sofa bed comfortably into the space. Research bed frames that you can purchase that meet your requirements.

2. Purchase the wood and materials that you will need. Look at your local thrift store for old bed frames that you can convert to sofas. Determine what additional materials you will need aside from the frame for sofa arms, cushions and fabric coverings.

3. Lay out a drop cloth and set out the wood panels you will be working with along with your other tools. Separate screws, nuts and other hardware into a sealable craft container or sandwich bags.

4. Pick out the materials you will need to form the legs and seat portion of the sofa. Assemble the sofa chair legs and set aside these assembled sections. Gather the wood pieces and materials for the lower portion of the seat frame.

5. Assemble the outer frame of the section as well as the inner slats for support to create a rectangular frame similar in look to a wooden grate. Set aside the lower frame when it is assembled.

6. Select the materials you will need to form the upper back of the sofa and lay them out in your work space. Assemble the pieces required for the back frame and set them aside similarly to the lower frame. If you want to stylize the upper frame, you may wish to shape the inner wood slats using a circular saw to stylize them before assembly.

7. Assemble the arm sections for your sofa bed if you have included them in your design. Gather the assembled sections for the sofa bed frame and join them together. Attach hinges and an extra supporting leg to allow the frame to be folded down completely into a flat bed.

8. Sand the assembled wood section to smooth out the pieces and prepare it for painting or staining. Stain or paint the wooden frame sections and allow them to dry completely. Measure the size of the bed frame and research the size mattress you will need and purchase a sofa bed mattress that can double as the base of your couch sofa.

9. Measure and note the lower frame and upper back portions as well as the full bed size to determine the fabric and cushion sizes you will need. Purchase the required foam cushion pieces and the fabric you will need to cover them. Sew together your cushion covers and insert the cushions.

Tags: will need, lower frame, materials will, materials will need, your sofa, assembled sections

Plant Texas Hibiscus Seeds

Plant Texas Hibiscus Seeds

The Texas hibiscus, also known as the Texas Star hibiscus, is an herbaceous perennial shrub native to the southeast United States. It is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zones 5 through 10. Texas hibiscus is easily identified by its deep red, star-shaped 6-to-8-inch-wide blossoms that typically begin blooming in summer and continue through the fall. Plant Texas hibiscus in a sunny location and provide it with good drainage and moist growing conditions. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Nick a small section off each seed, using a nail file or knife.

2. Fill 4-inch-wide plastic pots with a good quality sterilized seed-starting mix. Water each of the pots until you are sure the soil is moistened. Tamp the soil down firmly.

3. Plant two to three Texas hibiscus seeds per pot. Push each of the seeds about ¼ inch deep. Sprinkle ¼ inch of the seed starting mix gently over the seeds. Mist the surface of the soil generously.

4. Cover the pots securely with plastic wrap. Place the pots on an irrigation tray that has about ¼ inch of water in it. Set the entire tray in a warm location with plenty of light. A good temperature for germinating Texas hibiscus seeds is between 65 degrees and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Try and provide at least eight to 10 hours of light a day, but keep the pots out of direct sun light until the seedlings emerge.

5. Loosen the plastic wrap once the seedlings emerge. Keep the soil in the pots moist, but don't allow them to become waterlogged.

6. Thin out seedlings when they are 1/2 inch tall by removing the spindlier seedlings. Leave only the heartiest seedling, so that there is one Texas hibiscus seedling per pot. When seedlings have grown to about 3 to 5 inches tall, you can transplant them into your garden.

Tags: Plant Texas, Texas hibiscus, about inch, hibiscus seeds, plastic wrap

North Carolina State Housing Options

North Carolina State is one of the nation's top-ranked public universities, located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Princeton Review ranks it as one of the best values for students. The campus is a community of industry and government working side-by-side with professors and students. The university claims on its website that its Centennial Campus is known as the premier university research campus in the United States.

On-Campus Residence Halls

North Carolina State offers students several options for housing. The campus has residence halls for students preferring to live on campus. The more than 78 percent of freshmen entering North Carolina State who choose on-campus housing can select from 19 residence halls. The dormitories are located on the east, central and west parts of the campus so students can pick a location close to their classes. The dorms include dining rooms, recreational facilities and computer labs. There are also community kitchens in the dorms with microwaves.

Living and Learning Villages

The living and learning villages are residence halls on campus made up of students who hold similar learning, academic, social or lifestyle interests. The communities are a place where students can feel comfortable being in an environment of their peers. One community focuses on people interested in being around international students, for example, while others focus on the arts, women's leadership, freshmen in the sciences, scholars, leadership and service, working with youth, an honors village and a village for those who have not yet decided on a major of study.

University Apartment Complexes

Some students prefer the independence of living in their own apartment. The university has three apartment complexes that are within walking distance to the main campus, Wolf Village Apartments, Western Manor and E.S. King Village. Many married students and students with families choose apartment living, along with graduate or non-traditional students. The apartments are multicultural, offer options of one, two or three bedrooms, and some come with washers and dryers. Students staying for the summer pay an additional amount for these apartments.

Other Off-Campus Options

Some students prefer to find off-campus living in their own apartment, and there are a variety of privately owned apartments throughout the Raleigh area. There are campus resources available to assist students with any questions they may have about campus amenities and living. A link on the housing page of the university's website (ncsu.edu) provides information about off-campus housing.

Tags: North Carolina, Carolina State, North Carolina State, living their, living their apartment, residence halls, Some students

Repair The Veneer On An Antique Wooden Chest

An antique chest can be repaired.

Antique wooden chests can provide an old-time feel for a room in your house. Unfortunately, antique furniture sometimes shows its age with cracked veneer. Restore the beauty of your antique chest by repairing its veneer. If a chest has cracks in the wood, loose hinges or structural problems, it may require further repairs. Fix additional damage before repairing the veneer. Severe problems may require the assistance of a professional or someone with carpentry experience. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Purchase "flexible veneer." This veneer is about 1/60th inch thick and fits most wooden chests. Find veneer online or at home improvement stores.

2. Clean the chest by wiping it with a damp cloth.

3. Cut away the damaged veneer using a router with a 3/4'' bit. Run the router across the damaged area of the chest, using straight, short strokes.

4. Sand the damaged area of the chest using 320-grit sandpaper. Rub the sandpaper across the surface of the chest, using a circular motion.

5. Trace the shape of the sanded portion of the chest using a pencil and paper. Cut out this shape and trace it onto the new veneer. Cut the new veneer into the shape.

6. Apply hide glue to the sanded portion of the chest.

7. Press the veneer into the chest. Sand the edge of the new veneer using 320-grit sandpaper until the edge is level with the veneer on the chest. Gentle sanding helps even out the seams, making the new veneer blend in with the old.

Tags: chest using, 320-grit sandpaper, antique chest, area chest, area chest using

Luxury Casino Resorts In Jamaica

Escape to Jamaica for gaming and relaxation.

Roll the dice in a tropical paradise. Luxury casino resorts in Jamaica offer a host of upscale amenities and services for guest enjoyment and convenience. The island boasts nine casinos where Caribbean stud poker, in which players compete against the dealer and not each other, is among the most popular games of chance.

Sunset Jamaica Grand Resort

Roll the dice at a Jamaican casino.

Sunset Jamaica Grand Resort is a massive facility with both indoor and outdoor amenities. A two-story water slide winds around a lighthouse before dropping into one of the five on-site swimming pools and hot tubs. The resort boasts a fitness center, two tennis courts, sand volleyball court, water trampolines, water bicycles, supervised events for children and teens and themed parties for adults. In addition to multiple on-site dining venues, eight bars and the Jamaica'N Me Crazy Disco offer nightlife opportunities. The Aqua Azul Spa offers Thai and Swedish massage treatments. Tempt lady luck at the 80 slot machines or poker and blackjack tables. All rooms feature a private balcony and satellite television.

Sunset Jamaica Grand Resort

P.O. Box 100

Ocho Rios, Jamaica West Indies

876-974-2200

sunsetjamaicagrande.com

Coral Cliff Montego Bay

Capture lady luck in Jamaica.

Coral Cliff Montego Bay resort offers gaming, excitement and an exotic escape from the mundane. The on-sit casino boasts 120 slot machines, complimentary drinks and gaming tables. Entertainment includes full floorshows that feature cabaret, Latin and Reggae music and comedy performances. A fine-dining experience awaits guests at the on-site restaurant which serves island inspired cuisine and wine from local vineyards. The Run Jungle Café and Bar serves lighter fare and cocktails. Recreational amenities include a fitness center, fresh water swimming pool and hot tub as well as on-site massage services. Lodging options include "Superior" size rooms with either a single king or double queen beds and suites with a private balcony.

Coral Cliff Montego Bay

165 Gloucester Ave.

Montego Bay, Jamaica West Indies

867-952-4130

coralcliffjamaica.com

Terra Nova

Beat the dealer at Caribbean poker.

Terra Nova is the home of the Monte Carlo Gaming Lounge. This gambling facility operates 150 slot machines, horse racing machines, card tables and roulette. Off-track betting is possible via a live satellite feed. Resort amenities include an outdoors swimming pool and hot tub area flanked by native flora. Guests have wireless Internet access throughout the resort, including the sun deck surrounding the swimming pool. Cabanas and poolside bar and grill offer sustenance and libations during afternoon and evening hours. The Terra Nova piano bar offers live entertainment in a sophisticated atmosphere. A boutique offers an on-site shopping experience for ladies at the Terra Nova. Lodging amenities at this all-suite resort include a complimentary breakfast buffet served on the terrace, fresh flowers and fruit upon arrival, cable television and turn-down service complete with bottled water and chocolates.

Terra Nova

17 Waterloo Road

Kingston 10, Jamaica

876-926-2211

terranovajamaica.com

Tags: Terra Nova, Cliff Montego, Coral Cliff, Coral Cliff Montego, Grand Resort, Jamaica Grand, Jamaica Grand Resort

Mexican Wedding Customs

Wedding cake

Mexican weddings include native customs and traditions that brides and grooms of all backgrounds may find appealing. The wedding ceremony takes place in the church, reflecting Mexico's Roman Catholic heritage with hints of Aztec influence. The reception to follow is a great celebration, with guests enjoying traditional foods like tortilla dishes and sangria while festive mariachi, salsa, merengue or flamenco music plays. As with other cultures, families and friends play a big role in bringing the bride and groom together in their union of love.

Covering the Wedding Expenses

In Mexican custom, the father of the bride doesn't pay for the entire wedding. Instead, both families do their part to cover the expenses. In addition, Mexican weddings designate what's called "sponsors." Sponsors are actually important family members, those who are close to the bride and groom, such as godparents, or aunts and uncles who help cover specific wedding costs.

Role of the Wedding Party

The bridesmaids and groomsmen do more in a Mexican wedding than prepare for their part in the wedding procession. These close enlisted friends take on many roles, which may include paying for a specific part of the ceremony or celebration, such as the bride's bouquet or the ceremonial rosary. Typically, bridesmaids and groomsmen are assigned in pairs to cover specific duties, like providing a wedding prop or announcing part of the ceremony.

Bride's Dress and Wedding Colors

Mexican brides can be found in your traditional white dress, with the addition of a light blue slip worn underneath. The bride may also choose a more traditional look, wearing a ruffled Flamenco dress, a mantilla veil, or even a close-fitting dress with a bolero jacket, substituting flowers with a fan. The groom can get fancy with a matadorian outfit, or select a Mexican wedding shirt, the guayabera, worn by natives for 200 years.

The Lasso

The Mexican wedding ceremony typically takes place in the church, and a traditional event that takes place is the lasso, or lazo. As the couple kneels before the altar after exchanging vows, the bride and groom are wrapped together by a large rosary, ribbon or decorative cord, symbolizing their union and commitment. During this time, a special wedding prayer takes place. The bride keeps the lasso as a keepsake.

Gold Coins and Dancing for Money

The groom's traditional gifts for the bride are 13 gold coins, or arras. They are usually presented to her in a special box or tray; during their wedding ceremony, the groom first hands the box to the priest for blessing, and then to his bride. His gift to the bride symbolizes trust and confidence, and her acceptance of the gift symbolizes the return of her trust and confidence in him. Like the lasso, the arras become a family heirloom. During the ceremony, music, dance and celebration ensue. Money dancing is part of the ceremony, when dancers generously place money either on the bride's dress or in her money purse before dancing with her.

Tags: takes place, bride groom, Mexican wedding, part ceremony, wedding ceremony, bridesmaids groomsmen

What Season To Plant Fig Trees

Originally found in Western Asia, ancient merchants and travelers brought the trees into the Mediterranean. Today, the fig tree is grown throughout the U.S. Figs trees grow over 10 ft. tall, have large green leaves, and are an important food source. There are certain times and seasons to plant a fig tree in order to ensure proper growth and heartiness. Does this Spark an idea?

Planting Seasons

Fig trees are best planted in early spring or early autumn. They need time after planting to properly root before before being exposed to temperature extremes. Planting in early autumn guarantees the fig trees enough time to root before winter temperatures. Fig trees become dormant during cold winters. If trees are planted too late in autumn, they may not grow a strong enough root system to survive winter. Planting in early spring ensures a fig tree will be secure enough to withstand the heat and possible drought of summer. Once a root system has been securely established, a fig tree thrives on full sun and warm weather.

Locations

The Southeast, Southwest and the Pacific Coast of the U.S. are best suited for fig trees, providing enough warmth and sunlight--eight hours a day. Fig plants can be planted in the Northeast and Midwest. However, the trees must be planted in large pots. Figs can survive temperatures below 20 degrees F. But a number of and nights in the teens and large amounts of snow can kill your fig tree. By planting trees in pots, you can bring them inside or in a climate controlled area during frigid days and nights.

Caution: Sap

Fig leaves and branches contain a milky, latex-like sap. The sap is highly irritating to the skin because of the proteolytic enzyme that literally burns the skin and eyes. Blisters the size of baseballs have been reported from extensive exposure to the sap. When pruning the tree or when harvesting the fruit, wear long sleeved shirts, gloves, pants, closed shoes, and goggles.

Tags: early autumn, early spring, Planting early, root before, root system

Repair Scratches On Oak Furniture

Oak is a hard lumber commonly used in high-grade furniture because of its golden hue and black grain streaks. Oak furniture is often finished with oil to keep the wood moisturized or a rubbed-on polyurethane to protect the surface from discoloration. If you scratched your oak furniture, you can quickly restore it and leave it looking as good as new. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clean the dirt and oil from the scratch with a metal scratch awl or a pen knife. Clean the scratch with the grain if possible and not against it. This will help preserve the natural lines of the oak.

2. Apply a small amount of oak stain into the scratch and on the surface area around the crack. Allow the stain time to dry. This will restore the color to the bare oak wood and help it blend in with the surrounding surface area. It is OK if the scratch does not blend perfectly as the surface color of oak is never uniform.

3. Place a small amount of furniture wax onto a cotton rag and wipe it over the scratch. The wax will build up in the scratch and blend the surface of the scratch with the surface area around the scratch. If your oak furniture is covered with polyurethane, skip this step.

4. Fill the scratch with untinted polyurethane. Use a toothpick as an applicator. Dip the toothpick into the polyurethane and then apply the liquid to the scratch until you build the polyurethane up to the same level as the original polyurethane on the furniture.

5. Buff the area over the scratch and around it with #0000 steel wool, clean the surface with naphtha and apply a small amount of furniture wax to the surface to blend everything in.

Tags: scratch with, small amount, surface area, amount furniture, area around, over scratch, small amount furniture

Repair Scratches On Cherry Furniture

Use sandpaper to smooth out deep scratches in cherry furniture.

Solid wood furniture is as durable as it is attractive, but even the careful and loving caretaker can end up with scratched wood furniture. Cherry is one of the harder woods, but even it can be chipped and gouged during everyday use. It's not hard to fix scratched cherry furniture. A little time and attention--and a few surprisingly simple tools--is all it takes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Fill in shallow scratches with a crayon. Get a big box with at least 64 colors, then experiment on the underside of a chair arm or inside of a drawer until you find one that matches. Buff the crayon into the scratch with a staining sponge or soft cotton rag.

2. Purchase a furniture marker from your supermarket, specialty store or home improvement center. They are usually offered in three basic colors. Fill in the scratch then buff it with a clean, lint-free shop cloth to feather the edges into the existing finish.

3. Sand deep scratches very lightly with 220-grit or even finer sandpaper. Be very gentle and stay as close to the edge of the scratch as you can. Fill the sanded area with wax stain on a staining sponge. Rub it in thoroughly and buff it well with a clean cloth.

4. Strip very damaged cherry furniture with a chemical stripper. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and work in a well-ventilated area. Use a palm sander to smooth out all scratches, chips and gouges, then re-stain the furniture with water-based stain. Once you've applied enough coats of stain to get the look you want, let the last coat dry overnight, then seal the furniture with two to three coats of water-based polyurethane.

Tags: furniture with, cherry furniture, deep scratches, staining sponge, with clean

Repair Oak Furniture

Furniture made from hardwoods such as oak can be repaired when joints become loose or damaged. If maintained, quality wood furniture can last for generations. Oak is a hard and durable wood. Most problems with furniture occur at the joints. Over time, joints become loose with regular wear and as the glue degrades. It is important to fix loose joints as soon as possible to avoid further damage as the piece is weakened when the joints are loose.

Instructions

1. Inspect the furniture piece carefully to detect any loose joints. Pay particular attention to lower rungs that connect the legs together.

2. Tap the ends of loose rungs out of the legs, as well as any other loose parts, with a rubber mallet. Remove the parts in need of repair.

3. Sand the ends of the joints where they connect with a scrap of medium-grit sandpaper to remove any remaining glue.

4. Wet the ends of the joints with a wet rag. This will allow the joint to fit snugly while you reassemble and glue the furniture together.

5. Apply wood glue to both sides of the joints in need of repair. Reassemble the joints on the furniture back together. Wipe off any glue that oozes out with a wet rag.

6. Clamp the furniture with strap clamps and remove them when the glue is dry.

7. Touch up the repaired joints with a matching touch-up finish and brush and allow it to dry before use.

Tags: become loose, ends joints, joints become, joints become loose, joints with, loose joints, need repair

Repair Glasses

Repairing your eyeglasses is a lot easier than you might think. With a few simple tools and a touch of ingenuity, you can fix most common problems. Read on to learn repair glasses.

Instructions

Replacing a Missing Screw

1. If a screw pops out, try to screw another one in. This can be a bit tricky, as eyeglass screws are very small. Make sure to have a clean workplace in case you drop the screw.

2. Eyeglasses occasionally get stripped, making it impossible to put in a new screw. If this happens, you can fix the problem with wire, pliers and a wire cutter.

3. Thread a small piece of wire through the pieces to be joined. Use the pliers to twist it as tightly as possible. You will now have a nice, tight join.

4. Cut the end off near the join. Although this will leave a small tail of twisted wire, it will not be very noticeable.

5. Optionally, you can seal up the join with a drop of super glue. This creates a stronger join, but it means that you will not be able to remove the lenses again.

Fixing a Bent Frame

6. If possible, go to an eyeglass shop and have them do it for you. Most places that sell glasses will also repair them free of charge.

7. If you have decided to fix your glasses yourself, start off by looking in a mirror. Notice if the glasses are lopsided, if the earpieces fit snugly, and if there are any other problems that need attention. Try to mentally plan out exactly how far you will have to bend each piece to make the glasses fit properly.

8. Hold the glasses in one pair of pliers immediately adjacent to the point which needs to be bent. Use another pliers to bend them approximately two thirds as far as you think they need.

9. Put the glasses on again and look in the mirror. Double check how much further they need to be bent.

10. Hold the glasses as in step three and attempt to bend them the rest of the way. Use multiple small bends and the mirror to slowly fix the glasses rather than risking bending them too far and having to bend them back. Bending your glasses back and forth too much can fatigue the frames, causing them to break.

Fixing Broken Frames

11. Metal glasses can sometimes be soldered. Use a small piece of metal such as the pocket hook from a pen as a brace immediately behind the break in the frame. This will make the joint more solid.

12. If you don't mind the geeky look, duct tape will provide you with a good temporary fix. Either wrap enough tape around the break to provide a good solid patch, or use a thin piece of wood and a smaller tape wrapping to create a brace.

13. Super glue can sometimes provide a good temporary fix. If you add duct tape after the glue has set, you will get a stronger joint, less likely to break unexpectedly.

Tags: bend them, duct tape, good temporary, Hold glasses, provide good, small piece

Polish Wood On A Lathe

No amount of sandpaper makes up for rough work on the lathe. Sharp tools skillfully applied leave a surface that looks polished and clean. That look proves temporary as moisture raises wood fibers pressed flat by the turning tools. Much of the finishing work that makes that polish permanent can be done while the piece is still on the lathe. Simple wax finishes can be applied and buffed while the piece turns.

Instructions

1. Shape the work with steel, not sandpaper. Remove ribbing--the ripples caused by vibration or sloppy technique--with a final planing pass of skew chisel or gouge.

2. Remove the tool rest from the lathe bed to provide complete access to the wood piece. During polishing and finishing procedures, the tool rest becomes a safety hazard if left in place.

3. Check the piece for rough sections and troublesome grain patterns. Scraping tools shape wood accurately while turning the piece but leave a rougher surface than cutting tools. Polish highly figured woods by hand, using the lathe only as a holding vise. Use fine-grit paper followed by extra fine.

4. Sand straight-grained spindles while spinning the work on the lathe. Use a fine-grit paper first, followed by extra fine. Apply light pressure and keep the paper in constant motion to reduce clogging and scarring.

5. Stop the lathe but leave the piece in place. Rub the piece end to end with extra-fine grit paper to remove circular tracks left by the first stage of polishing.

6. Wrap a small amount of natural carnauba shoe wax in several layers of clean cotton cloth. Start the lathe and carefully press the applicator ball against the turning. Move the wax constantly over the piece, thoroughly covering the turning with fresh wax.

7. Fold small squares of clean cotton and polish the wax surface as the piece turns. Set aside the cloths as they become saturated with wax.

8. Stop the lathe and burnish the piece with a clean cloth, rubbing end to end.

Tags: clean cotton, extra fine, fine-grit paper, followed extra, followed extra fine, piece turns, piece with

Repair Curved Table Legs

Curved table legs offer a distinctive look to all sorts of tables ranging from formal dining room tables to casual cocktail tables. They also serve a function, of course, and problematic legs compromise the stability of a table. Scratches, gouges and nicks are unsightly on curved table legs and take away from the aesthetic value of the furniture. Depending on the job, repairing curved table legs is something you can do on your own most of the time, with just a few materials.

Instructions

Loose Table Legs

1. Turn the table over to gain access to the underside of the table.

2. Use a screwdriver to tighten screws. If glue secures the legs, use a metal putty knife to break the glue bond between the table leg and the tabletop.

3. Scrape the dried glue out of the recess that holds the leg under the tabletop with a metal scraper.

4. Sand the area under the tabletop and the top of the table leg with medium-grit sandpaper and follow with a fine-grit sandpaper sanding. Use a tack cloth to remove dust.

5. Apply wood glue to the recess on the underside of the tabletop and the top of the table leg. Leave the table upside down while the wood glue dries, usually 4 to 6 hours.

Scratches

6. Find a match for the curved-table leg's current finish by choosing a wood stain, wax sticks or wood crayons. Liquid scratch-cover products and markers made to match a furniture's finish are also available.

7. Apply the covering using a lint-free rag, if needed. Slowly build the color until it matches the existing table leg finish.

8. Apply a coat of furniture wax.

Nicks and Gouges

9. Choose a colored wood putty to match the finish.

10. Use a flexible putty knife to press deeply into the wood putty into the nick or gouge. Apply thin layers of putty, building it up to slightly higher than the surface of the table leg.

11. Allow the wood putty to dry and harden, generally 1 to 2 hours.

12. Use fine-grit sandpaper to sand the wood putty flush with the wood surface.

Broken Legs

13. Turn the table upside down and remove the table leg with either a screwdriver or by freeing the glue bond with a metal scraper.

14. Contact the manufacturer to purchase a new leg that exacts matches the table or bring the broken leg to a woodworking shop to have a duplicate made.

15. Attach the new leg in the same fashion as the broken leg by either screwing it in place or gluing in place.

Tags: wood putty, fine-grit sandpaper, glue bond, glue recess, Legs Turn, Legs Turn table

The History Of School Desks

The History of School Desks

In these modern times, most of us fondly (or not so fondly) remember sitting in a wooden or plastic school desk as our lessons were delivered to us. Some of us listened with the utmost attention, while others doodled our crushes' names in the lower corner while the instructor droned on like Charlie Brown's teacher. Whatever our experience in school, the desk was certainly a large part of it. In this article, we'll look at a brief history of school desks and how they've evolved over time.

The Before Times

School desks were not invented until 1880. Before that time, few children went to school, as there were no laws mandating that they attend school. Many worked in factories or for their parents. The lucky ones who received education were tutored at home where they studied at adult-sized desks. If they did go to an actual school, they either studied on long tables in lecture halls, or, in poorer areas, sat on benches where they studied without a desk and struggled to write on their laps.

The First Model

The first school desk was made in 1880 by John D. Loughlin in Sidney, Ohio. The desk, known as "The Fashion Desk," proved to be extremely popular across the country. The practicality of the desks allowed for many to be put together in a one room schoolhouse, and the fashion aspect of it was aesthetically pleasing to those in the education industry. Loughlin's marketing campaign also helped to sell these desks, which would eventually sweep the nation. The "Fashion Desks" were desks attached to one another and were big enough to seat two or three children. Usually, there was an inkwell so that the student could replenish his pen's supply.

The Next Generation

Loughlin's desk model became popular and remained so for many years. As time went on and the need for students to store papers and homework increased, desks were designed to accommodate these changing needs. Desks were manufactured with "cubbyholes" underneath where students could place their books. Some desks were designed with surfaces that lifted up so students could put supplies inside of the desk. Most of these models were made out of wood. Eventually desks that folded up were designed; these could easily be put away if necessary. These new desks also helped pave the way for school becoming compulsory for all children under 16, making some schools significantly overcrowded.

Environmentally Friendly

As time went on, the idea of saving wood became in fashion. In the 1960s and 1970s, many desks were made fully out of metal, but these were mostly used for high school students. Some of these desks were attached to folding chairs, while some were fixed. Most school desks had storage space underneath the chairs. Still made in the design of Loughlin's brainchild, most of the desks contained a chair with writing tablet attached to it, although differing to accommodate materials and space saving.

Safety Concerns

Some of the earlier desks, which lift up to allow storage, are still used in primary schools. However, there have been significant safety concerns about these desks. Children have frequently opened them and accidentally closed them on their arms causing broken bones. In addition, many of the cubbies now cause cheating concerns as students can put their cell phone under their desk and text to one another. But despite these concerns, desks remain a fixed symbol in our minds representing either our beloved or loathed days in school.

Tags: desks were, school desk, these desks, were designed, also helped, desks they

What Is An Armoire

The armoire, a two-door cupboard designed by the cabinetmaker to King Louis XIV of France, can lend a regal presence to a room. It is a movable piece of furniture, although usually large and heavy. Some armoires found in antique shops and furniture galleries reach a height of over 7 feet. If you choose to place an armoire in your home, prepare for the possibility that it may become a focal point in whichever room it graces. Does this Spark an idea?

The Traditional Armoire

Many of today's traditionally-styled armoires continue to exhibit a French influence in their design, with curved legs and pediments. They may also display richly detailed carving or molding. Traditional English and American styles are less elaborate but nonetheless stately. In addition to two exterior doors, there may be one or more exterior drawers below them. The interior of a true armoire contains shelves and a space for hanging clothes.

The Modern Armoire

In addition to traditional styles, armoires are available in styles for contemporary and transitional looks. Straight body lines with no molding create armoires that can be mixed with mid-century modern, art deco and modern Asian furniture and decor. Softer lines with small amounts of detail are well suited to a more transitional look or today's relaxed contemporary home. Furniture makers also offer armoires that are adaptable for clothing, computer, television or a dry bar.

Finishes

Traditional styles can be found in various stains for oak, cherry, mahogany and other woods. Painted armoires that sometimes display elaborate floral motifs or traditional scenes are also available. In modern armoires, there are countless finishes and combinations of finishes available. Inquire about available finishes for armoires you may see in a furniture showroom. Often there is not enough space to show them all.

Creative Applications

Armoires are still being used in the traditional sense in bedrooms, particularly master bedrooms. Increasingly, an armoire contains a television in the family room, study or living room because of the convenience of hiding the television behind closed doors. Armoires are also an ideal place to hide toys or collectibles in a child's bedroom or playroom. In the dining room, large linens can be neatly hung on hangers from the clothing rod to avoid excessive wrinkling.

Tags: armoires that, armoire contains, lines with

Make Lumber Turn Gray

Weathered wood gets its grayish color from oxidization.

Whether you're looking to match colors for a fence post replacement or want to add a weathered look to your woodworking project, the solution is oxidization. The tannins found in tea, mixed with the iron content of steel wool and the acid found in vinegar create instant wood oxidization upon application. This mixture adds years of age to your wood in mere minutes, without imitating the color of aged wood like gray paints or stains. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Rip or cut the steel wool into a dozen small pieces.

2. Place the steel wool and 1 cup of vinegar into the jar. Seal the jar and wait 24 hours. The steel wool will mostly dissolve.

3. Boil water in the kettle. Add 1/2 cup of boiling water to the jar.

4. Steep the orange pekoe tea bag in the jar for 10 minutes.

5. Remove the tea bag and stir the mixture. Soak the paintbrush tip in the liquid mixture in the jar. Apply the mixture evenly over the entire surface of the wood using the paintbrush.

6. Immediately place the wood outdoors, preferably in the sun, to dry. If drying indoors, ensure placement of the wood in a dry location.

7. Repeat as necessary to reach the desired shade.

Tags: steel wool

Kill Ants In A Yard

There are over 19 varieties of ants throughout North America. Many varieties of yard ants (such as carpenter ants and fire ants) can damage plant life, destroy seeds and flower buds. Getting rid of ants in the yard is an easy process that involves a non-pesticide solution. Using a non-pesticide solution will help ensure that plant life, flower or herb gardens, and lawn grass itself will not be damaged during extermination. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Ensure that the watering can you will be using is empty and clean.

2. Fill your watering can with three quarts of lukewarm tap water.

3. Add 1 quart of vinegar to the water mixture and stir well.

4. Thoroughly saturate the affected area with the mixture. Vinegar is safe on grass, plants and flowers, and will not harm any pets that may be in the yard.

5. Leave the area to dry. Do not rinse the solution off of plants.

6. Repeat the process as often as necessary to ensure that your yard does not become damaged by ant infestation.

Tags: ensure that, non-pesticide solution, plant life

Southwestern Bathroom Decor

Warm colors of the sunset work well with Southwestern decor.

Southwestern styles are influenced by Native American, Mexican and Spanish designs and colors. Choosing a shower curtain, wall hangings, rugs and other accessories that reflect this decorating style is not difficult if you know what to look for when shopping. This type of decor in the bathroom adds a casual, warm ambience to the room. Does this Spark an idea?

Southwestern Theme

Create a theme in your bathroom so that the decor flows visually. Scenes of desert, plains, mountains, Spanish-style homes and gardens all enhance the Southwestern ambience and should be apparent in the decor you select. Choose accessories that have scenes or prints with cacti, pottery, dream catchers, Kachina dolls or Mexican hats to reflect the various Native American, Mexican or Spanish influences.

Southwestern Colors

Warm colors help create an earthy ambience in Southwestern bathrooms. Sunset shades and colors found in nature, such as Taos blue -- a mixture of violet and sky blue -- turquoise, copper, orange, taupe, yellow, red, apricot and sage green all work well in this decorating style. Paint your walls in a taupe, beige or gray if you enjoy neutral colors. Otherwise, use a terracotta, earthy green, dark gold or a rustic red to add pizazz to the bathroom walls.

Floor Coverings

Cover the floor area beside the bathtub and in front of the sink with handwoven rugs in Aztec-inspired prints and abstract splashes of warm color. Prints with Southwestern-looking scenes, such as a desert or collection of cacti are appropriate as well. Flagstone, terracotta and other tile that resembles stones or have earth-tone shades work well with this decor.

Architecture

Install architectural features such as arched windows with interior shutters or wood beams if your bathroom is spacious. Iron window grills, doorknobs, hinges and drawer pulls add an authentic touch of the Southwest to the interior. Boldly colored tiles with geometric patterns or hand-painted flowers or cacti accentuate the Southwestern appeal as well.

Tags: work well, accessories that, American Mexican, American Mexican Spanish, decorating style, Mexican Spanish

Repair A Loose Sofa Back Button

Reattach the buttons on the back of your sofa.

Buttons can give the back of your sofa a neat, tailored look, but the effect is unattractive when they're loose. Sofa back buttons are often attached right where your head touches the back of the couch, so loose buttons can become an ongoing problem. Remedy that run-down look by reattaching the shank buttons to the back of your sofa. You'll have a newer-looking piece of furniture in a matter of minutes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pull the button away from the back of the sofa cushion to expose the loose thread. Clip the thread with scissors, being careful not to cut any of the sofa fabric. Remove the button. Use tweezers to remove any stray threads that may remain.

2. Cut a piece of quilting thread 20 inches long. Quilting thread is thicker and stronger than regular sewing thread, and will create a stronger bond between the button and the sofa back. Thread a curved needle with the thread, double the thread and tie a knot at the end, creating a double thread that measures 10 inches long.

3. Make a stitch that measures 1/8 inch right at the spot where the button should lay. This will secure the thread to the sofa back.

4. Pull the needle through the shank at the back of the button. Take a stitch in the back of the sofa, using the natural curve of the needle to grasp some of the batting material behind the sofa fabric. Pull the needle through the fabric and batting, then back out again. Pull the needle through the button shank again.

5. Continue sewing through the sofa back, then through the button shank, until you have 4 inches of thread left. Stop with the thread sticking out from the sofa fabric, but not through the button shank.

6. Wrap the thread around the button shank and connecting thread four times. This will strengthen the series of threads and help keep the button from coming loose again.

7. Make one more small stitch directly below the button. Pull the thread taut, then clip it off. The end of the thread should slip through the fabric to be buried in the interior of the couch cushion.

Tags: button shank, back your, back your sofa, needle through, Pull needle

Obtain A Tax Id Number In Santa Barbara County California

If you are starting a business in Santa Barbara County, you business needs to obtain a tax ID number, otherwise knows as an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The EIN is a nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that is used to identify the tax accounts of certain types of businesses. In most cases, you can instantly obtain an EIN number for your Santa Barbara County business by using the online IRS application.

Instructions

1. Open a web browser on your computer and go to the online IRS EIN application (see Resources).

2. Click the "Apply Now" button.

3. Enter the requested information about the name of the business, the business address, the name of the responsible party, the organizational structure of the business, the type of the business and the reason the business is requesting an EIN number.

4. Submit the information and verify that the information you entered is correct. The IRS will instantly process the application and issue you an online certificate with the new EIN number for your business. If there was a problem with your application, the IRS willnotify you of any additional information that is needed.

Tags: Barbara County, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County, Barbara County business, County business

Ideas To Decorate A Craftsman Style Kitchen

Craftsman style favored quartersawn oak with well-defined, eccentric grain patterns.

The Craftsman movement dated from the end of the 19th century through the beginning of the 20th. Craftsman designers rebelled against the mix of heavily draped little rooms and machine-made furniture found in Victorian homes. Turn-of-the-century middle class kitchens benefited from the affordability of hand-crafted materials and wide availability of central heating and electricity. Resulting kitchens were open, sunny rooms with simple, classic handmade furniture and modern-looking appliances. Does this Spark an idea?

The Craftsman Kitchen

The Craftsman kitchen, according to Gustav Stickley, should be modeled on colonial kitchens as the heart of the home. He wrote at a time when many large middle class homes included servants as family members. Craftsman style placed great emphasis on surfaces and features that could be easily cleaned. The "sanitary kitchen" contained many elements familiar to today's homemakers: plenty of built-in cabinets, storage space and electric appliances. They also boasted open plumbing and cement floors, details that only a purist would insist upon.

Adapting Craftsman Style

Modern kitchens can incorporate elements of Craftsman style without adhering to its rather austere details. Today's homes generally do not employ servants but the entire family and guests frequently use the kitchen. Many modern homeowners prefer center islands for cooking, informal buffets and quick breakfast--an element not present in the open plan of the Craftsman kitchen. Quarter-sawn oak cabinets and custom-built cabinetry may be expensive, but plenty of reasonably priced look-alike woods and mass-produced materials that capture the spirit of the original are available, melding historically accurate style with modern budgets.

Wood

Add storage space to the paneled benches of a breakfast nook or window seat--both period-appropriate details--with flip tops. Add glass doors with mullions that mirror Craftsman-style windows to upper cabinets. Add chair rails and wainscoting, plain or painted. Although built-in cabinets are expensive, modern pre-built cabinetry is available in period-appropriate oak and cherry. Islands built using the same wood and plain Craftsman style modernize the floor plan. Although cement and linoleum were materials of choice, narrow or random-width wood flooring in pine or oak were also used and are definitely softer on feet.

Other Materials

Replace windows with energy-efficient three or six-over-one sashes or casement windows with ribbon lights, consisting of a central pane surrounded by rectangular panes. Fill glass-front cabinets with heirloom dishes and handmade pottery. Rather than curtains, use valences of linen material with simple patterns based on nature; if privacy is important, use wood blinds. Arts and Crafts wallpaper reproductions can be expensive but patterns copied onto stencils for borders or details executed in semi-gloss paints is scrubbable, period appropriate and less expensive. Copper or zinc range hoods and reproduction fixtures add elegance and atmosphere. Drawer and cabinet hardware in bronze or iron finish mirrors the plain, handmade Craftsman style. Soapstone, quartz or marble countertops and handmade tiles for backsplashes adhere to the Craftsman rule of easily cleaned surfaces.

Tags: Craftsman style, built-in cabinets, Craftsman kitchen, Craftsman style, easily cleaned

Repair A Broken Eyeglass Frame

Repair a Broken Eyeglass Frame

With the help of an inexpensive eyeglass repair kit, you can perform minor repairs on eyeglass frames. The kits are sold at drugstores and hardware stores. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Examine the cause of the problem with a magnifying glass. Is the hinge stretched out? Is the screw loose or missing? Did the hinge break off?

2. If the hinge is stretched out, cover the tips of a pair of pliers with masking or duct tape to avoid scratching the frames and then use the pliers to bend the hinge gently back into place. Or slide an orthodontic rubber band (available from dentists) or a small rubber ring (an eyeglass repair kit may include this) over the loose hinge to hold it in place.

3. If the screw is loose, tighten it with a tiny screwdriver from the eyeglass repair kit. The tip of a paring knife will serve as a screwdriver in a pinch.

4. If the screw is lost, replace it with one of the screws from the kit, or slip a miniature safety pin into the screw hole and close it. If the repair kit's screw does not fit into the hole, do not force it, as that might strip the threads inside the frame.

5. Dab a tiny bit of clear nail polish on the hinge screw once you've tightened it to hold the screw in place. Let dry.

6. If the metal hinge has broken off the frame, wash both surfaces and scrape away any paint or old glue. Then use a toothpick to dab fast-bonding glue to the break. Hold the pieces in place for 60 seconds to allow the glue to dry.

7. If the earpiece keeps slipping off the frame or has broken off, re-adhere it with fast-bonding glue. If you get the glue on your skin, wipe it off with acetone-based nail-polish remover.

Tags: eyeglass repair, Broken Eyeglass, Broken Eyeglass Frame, Eyeglass Frame, fast-bonding glue, hinge stretched, Repair Broken

Repair A Broken Door Frame

Repair a Broken Door Frame

Over time, door frames can become broken. Most doors need a solid door frame to properly work. If your door frame is broken or cracked, you can repair the door frame without completely replacing it. Start working when understand the basics of door frame repair, ensuring that the job will go smoothly. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the door from the door frame with a screwdriver.

2. Remove the weatherstripping on the door jamb. Not all doors have weatherstripping, but exterior doors should have it.

3. Remove the door casings from around the door frame, using a pry bar and putty knife. Do this carefully so that the casings can be reinstalled later. Set the casings aside in a safe place.

4. Cut away the broken part of the door frame, using a circular saw. Remove the wood jamb completely. The circular saw may not be able to cut the entire jamb away from the door, so use a wood chisel to remove the rest of the jamb.

5. Measure the width and length of the old door jamb, using a measuring tape. Transfer the measurements to the 1-by-6 board with a pencil. Use a table saw to cut the 1-by-6 board to size.

6. Push the new board into place in the door frame. If the board does not fit, you may need to measure and cut again until it fits nicely into place. Nail the board into place with a nail gun and 2-inch finish nails.

7. Caulk the door frame and reinstall weatherstripping if necessary. Install the hardware and the door.

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Repair Broken Eyeglasses At Home

Some eyeglass frame repairs are done easily at home.

You can repair your broken eyeglass frames at home if necessary. Most repairs are considered temporary and are done to help you get by until your eye care practitioner replaces your frame or glasses with new ones. Several do-it-yourself repairs are done easily with just a few tools and items you probably already own. Fix your own eyeglasses at home in just a few steps.

Instructions

1. Spread a towel over your work area surface. In case any small parts fall, you will find them easier. Replace any missing screws. Tighten all screws by placing the frame so it is resting on your work surface with the head of the screw pointing up. Some frames have screws on the bottom side of the frame, slightly hidden. Check all sides of the frame for hidden screws. Inexpensive eyeglass repair kits are sold in most major department stores and optical retail shops and contain different sizes and types of screws commonly used in most eyeglass frames, and small screwdrivers.

2. Reattach broken temples, the part of the frame that rests on your ear, or hinges with glue. Be sure to clean off any old glue from previous repairs with nail polish remover. Frame parts are either metal or plastic. Use the proper type of glue designed for the material you are repairing.

The hinge holds the front of the frame to the temples. The broken hinge may be attached to the front of the frame or to the temple. Use a toothpick and dab a little glue in the hole where the hinge fits. Insert the hinge and hold for 60 seconds. Depending on the repair, you may not be able to open and close the temple once the hinge is adhered. Use caution when taking your glasses on and off.

3. Fix bent metal frames by reshaping the end piece, located at the outer edge of the top of the frame front. This holds the temples to the front of the frame and can become bent. Cover the pliers' tips with tape to prevent scratching the metal frame. Grasp the front of the frame with one hand and cover the end piece with the pliers' tips and compress gently. Bend slightly to widen or tighten the end piece.

4. Repair a broken bridge, the part of a metal or plastic frame that sits on the nose, with tape or glue.Tape is a temporary fix and is bulky and unsightly but does work in emergencies. Wrap tape tightly around the two pieces of broken frame until the frame feels stable. Have someone else hold the frame while you wrap the tape. Glue is also used to hold broken plastic frames at the bridge but does not hold long. Be careful not to get glue on your lenses.

Tags: front frame, done easily, eyeglass frames, frame that, metal plastic, pliers tips, repairs done

Turn A Kitchen Cabinet Into A Vanity

Converted kitchen cabinets look good in the bathroom.

Many kitchen cabinets can be adjusted to fit a bathroom vanity. A few simple adjustments can create the storage space you need in your bathroom. Homeowners with do-it-yourself skills can turn a kitchen cabinet into a bathroom vanity by trimming the cabinet and installing a sink and vanity countertop. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the kitchen cabinet with a measuring tape. Most bathroom vanities are approximately 33 inches high and at least 18 inches deep from front to back.

2. Remove the drawers and doors from the kitchen cabinet. Use a screwdriver to remove the doors.

3. Adjust the height of the kitchen cabinet so that it is within the 31- to 35-inch range. Remove the excess height by trimming the bottom of the cabinet with a circular saw.

4. Put the cabinet into place. If the cabinet has a back, it may be necessary to remove the back portion of the cabinet to accommodate the sink's plumbing. Use a hammer and pry bar to remove the back panel on the kitchen cabinet if it has one.

5. Install the countertop and sink, following the manufacturer's directions. If the cabinet has drawers that obstruct the sink, you may need to remove the drawer fronts and use wood glue to glue the fronts into place on the cabinet. Use a nail gun and finish nails to nail the drawer fronts into place.

Tags: kitchen cabinet, into place, bathroom vanity, cabinet with, drawer fronts, fronts into, fronts into place

Paint French Country Furniture

Highlight the carved, scalloped and raised details when painting French country furniture.

French country furniture is an eclectic mix of court styles, rural interpretations, local colors and materials and gentle aging. It lends itself to antiquing and painting for a faded Versailles or shabby chic look, although painting it requires some attention to detail. Pieces often have cabriolet or snail feet, both raised and inset panels, carved or scalloped aprons, and hand-carved flowers and other decorative features. Aim for rustic but elegant. The chalky hues of the Parisian countryside, with their light tones and faux aging, work well on reproduction pieces like armoires, buffets and commodes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove any hardware like pulls or escutcheons. Set the hardware aside with all screws and fasteners so you can replace it once the piece is dry. Wipe down the piece with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt.

2. Use medium-coarse sandpaper to remove flaking paint, rough spots or a thin layer of old paint. Apply a paste paint stripper on filigree work, panel frames and carving areas that are difficult to sand. Work the paste into the carved wood with a putty knife, and wait the specified time before pulling it away, removing the old paint.

3. Neutralize the treated section with a manufacturer-recommended solvent and a clean rag. Switch to fine sandpaper, and go over the entire piece again until you have removed most of the old color and created a smooth surface. Wipe the furniture down with a clean cloth.

4. Prime any darker furniture with matte, white primer. Use matte-finish pale paint over the primer. The paint should have a chalky finish, not a glossy one. Allow the furniture to dry.

5. Faux-age the pieces, and bring out the detail with a small craft brush and matte gray paint. Outline panel grooves, carving, swirls or grooves in cabriolet or escargot feet and the edges of scalloped aprons, drawers and doors with light gray paint. Use a rag to rub a bit of gray paint around the areas where the hardware will go to simulate the accumulated grime of long use. When the gray paint is dry, rub the tops of carvings and some of the edges with extra-fine sandpaper to expose the lighter paint below and to suggest random wear.

6. Replace the pulls, escutcheons, hinges and other hardware. Set the piece in place, and emphasize any faux-aging "wear" around the feet and exterior edges by sanding lightly on the most exposed surfaces.

Tags: gray paint, carved scalloped, country furniture, pulls escutcheons, scalloped aprons

Tell If One'S Boyfriend Is A Psycho

If your boyfriend calls you 50 times, sends 100 text messages and 300 emails all in one day, he might be a psycho. If you're still unsure, learn to tell if your boyfriend is a psycho, but first ask him to stop staring over your shoulder as you read this.

Instructions

1. Ignore his attempts at communication. Avoid his calls and disregard his text messages for an afternoon. If you find him in your bushes wearing a ski mask and gloves, he is definitely psycho. Normal boyfriends don't get so angry when they can't get ahold of you. Psycho boyfriends tend to lose their cool and do psycho things like stalk you.

2. Wear something sexy. If your boyfriend instantly demands that you put on a "moo-moo," he's certainly psycho. Psycho boyfriends have issues with insecurity and placing demands on the way you dress. Normal boyfriends are proud of their woman, especially when she looks hot.

3. Say that Brad Pitt is cute. If your boyfriend threatens to jump off of a bridge, he is positively psycho. Psycho boyfriends fall apart at the very thought of you being with someone else, even though that person is completely unattainable. You'll never even have a chance to meet Brad Pitt, and normal boyfriends recognize that.

4. Stay out late with your girlfriends. If your boyfriend shows up at the club and slashes your girlfriends' tires, he is without a doubt psycho. Psycho boyfriends have issues with control and jealousy, especially when it comes to where you go and who you are with. Normal boyfriends give you the space and freedom you need to have fun with your girlfriends once in a while.

Tags: your boyfriend, Psycho boyfriends, psycho Psycho, psycho Psycho boyfriends, your girlfriends, boyfriends have

Lazboy Recliner Options

La-Z-Boy is a well-known brand name in the furniture industry, especially when speaking of recliners. The company's reclining chairs have come a long way since 1929, when a customer first suggested to La-Z-Boy founders that they upholster their innovative folding porch chair. The recliners made today are plush pieces that incorporate the latest in technological advances. Does this Spark an idea?

La-Z-Touch

The company's La-Z-Touch chairs feature two, six or 10 massage motors in addition to a heating unit. The user can operate massage motors at the same time or individually. Setting choices include pulsating and continuous massage. The massage intensity and temperature options offer a more customized feel.

Dreamtime

The Dreamtime chair comes with a choice of six or 10 massage motors and is 42 inches high, 39 inches wide and 40 inches deep. It has thick cushioning from top to bottom and features pillow arms and a headrest. Consumers can choose between rocker or recliner designs. The appearance may be customized with material, color and pattern choices. Upholstery options include leather, cloth, EcoComfort and Performance fabrics. There are 10 color options and hundreds of fabric patterns. There are about 90 leather options according to the colors and textures desired.

Pinnacle

The Pinnacle is a rocking recliner that is slightly smaller than the Dreamtime at 41 inches high, 33 inches wide and 38.5 inches deep. It features pillowed cushions, rolled arms and may be ordered in any of 1,700 fabrics, including leather. With the optional Reclina-Way feature, the chair can be positioned within inches from a wall and still fully recline.

Lancer

The Lancer is a rocker that measures 41.5 high, 37 inches wide and 40 inches deep. This model is equipped with six motors and may be custom ordered in 1,700 color and fabric options, including leather. It features pillow-style arms and a horizontal split seat back.

Crandell

The Crandell is a large rocker with deep cushions. This chair measures 46 inches tall, 46 inches wide and 40 inches deep. It comes with a choice of six or 10 massage motors. Reclina-Rocker technology allows the user to rock and recline simultaneously. Upholstery choices include leather and cloth options under a wide variety of patterns and colors.

Chill

The Chill comes in wall recliner and rocker styles with dual-motor massage units. The dimensions are 42 inches tall, 43.5 inches wide and 39 inches deep. What sets this recliner apart from the others is a thermoelectric cooler installed in the left armrest. The top flips up for access. This chair also can be purchased with or without a heating unit. It is upholstered in cloth with colors such as coffee, cognac, almond, black and saddle.

Tags: inches deep, inches wide, inches wide inches, wide inches, wide inches deep

Make Paper Lanterns

Paper lanterns emit a lovely, soft glow that can really add an ambiance to a room. Typically seen around celebrations of the Chinese New Year, lanterns also have become a popular light fixture. Let your home bask in their glow with this simple project.

Instructions

Make a Simple Paper Lantern

1. Fold a piece of paper lengthwise and make a sharp crease. Use scissors to cut along the folded edge, starting and stopping about an inch away from the edges. Make as many cuts as you like, but be sure to make them evenly.

2. Unfold the paper. If you wish to add designs to the lantern, do so now. Consider gluing strips of ribbon down each cut-out, or paint a picture on the paper to add a different look.

3. Roll the lantern together, gluing the 1-inch edges together. Hold them in place with two paper clips until the project dries. Measure a length of a ribbon or fishing line and glue it to the top of the lantern so it can be hung.

4. Measure the diameter of your lantern and cut out a matching piece of thin cardboard. Be sure to include small tabs that you can glue to the lantern. Allow the project to dry again.

5. Place a small tap light with batteries on the cardboard base and turn it on. If you would prefer to use a candle for lighting, visit Candle Help's Web site for instructions on a different lantern. Consider making a few more lanterns to hang around your home, adding a little international flavor to your decor.

Tags: glue lantern, lantern Consider, your home

Use Flat Sheets To Make Window Drapes

Bed sheet curtains

Have you ever seen a set a sheets that you thought would make beautiful drapes or curtains? Have you ever bought a comforter and matching sheets, but weren’t able to find curtains or drapes to match? Buy an extra set of sheets, make your own curtains, and you will have a fashionable coordinated set of drapes, sheets and curtains.

Instructions

Cutting the Flat Sheet for Window Drapes

1. Purchase two sets of twin sheets per window. Twin sheets are the easiest to work with, as there is very little cutting or sewing.

2. Wash the sheets to avoid shrinkage after the drapes are made. If your sheets came with fitted sheets also, wash these with the flat sheets. The fitted sheets can be used for tie-backs, valances or throw pillows.

3. Determine the length of the curtain by measuring the window from the curtain rod to the bottom of the window, or wherever you want the curtain to stop. Add four inches to this measurement. Transfer this measurement to the sheet, starting from the top. Mark the length with a straight pin.

4. Fold the sheet in half, lengthwise. Smooth out any wrinkles and make sure it is folded perfectly straight. It is easier to mark the measurement all the way across the sheet. This gives you a cut line to follow.

5. Cut across the bottom of the sheet as straight as possible. Do this with both twin sheets. Fold the bottom up four inches for the hem. Make sure that the fold is toward the back of the sheet. Use straight pins to hold it while you work your way across.

6. Fold an inch of the top of the hem to the inside of the sheet and pin it down. This is the hemline.

Sewing the Flat Sheet to Make Window Drapes

7. Thread the sewing machine with a matching color of thread. Use a small straight stitch and stitch the hemline down across both sets of sheets. You can also use a contrasting color of thread if you choose.

8. Turn the sheet around to the top. The top hem of the sheet will become your pocket for the curtain rod to slide through. Most sheets leave the sides on the hem open. If the sheet is not open at the ends, use a seam ripper to remove the stitches and open the sides on the hem.

9. Use the sewing guide on your machine to stitch a straight line across the top of the sheet about one quarter of an inch in. This will make the small ruffled edge at the top of your drape.

10. Slide a curtain rod through the top hems of both drape panels. Attach the curtain rod to the hooks. Make tie backs out of any coordinating strips of material, a length of ribbon or even a string of beads.

Tags: Window Drapes, across sheet, color thread, curtains Have, curtains Have ever, fitted sheets, Flat Sheet

Tips For Lazboy Recliners

Test a few LA-Z-Boy models for comfort before purchasing.

At the end of a long, hard day, there is nothing so relaxing as kicking back in a LA-Z-Boy recliner. With a pop-up foot rest, LA-Z-Boy recliners offer support to the entire body, from head to toe, alleviating pain and tension. With a little TLC, a LA-Z-Boy can last for years and become a beloved part of your home furnishings. Does this Spark an idea?

Keep Kids Safe

Though LA-Z-Boy reclining chairs are comfy and easy for adults to manage and use, little children might see them as playthings, which can be dangerous. Instruct children not to climb and play on the chair, which could accidentally tip over and cause injury. Make sure the pop-up foot rest is folded down when children are present, as recommended by Keep Kids Safe, and instruct them not to use it, as the mechanism can pinch their hands and fingers.

Natural Pain Relief

Instead of reaching for a bottle of pain pills, trying relaxing in a LA-Z-Boy recliner to help ease certain painful conditions. Strained muscles, degenerative back pain and the strain of pregnancy on the back can be relieved by reclining in a LA-Z-Boy, according to the official company website. As reclining allows the entire body to relax and enjoy support, muscles are eased naturally and tension gradually melts away, part of the reason the American Chiropractic Association recommends LA-Z-Boy chairs.

Positioning

LA-Z-Boy recliners aren't small, so study the room where you plan to place one in order to maximize space and create a pleasing appearance. Create a "central traffic lane" through the middle of the room, as suggested by the official company website, allowing easy movement through the area. Also, create a foot and a half of space between the recliner and coffee table. As LA-Z-Boy recliners feature a pop-up foot rest, take the extra space it requires when fully extended into consideration when arranging things.

Cleaning and Care

Before cleaning your LA-Z-Boy recliner, check the tag on the back of the chair for important information to avoid damaging it. The cleaning code will reveal the best way to care for the recliner and tags reading "W" or "W" are both safe for water and liquid cleansers. However, tags marked with "S" or "X" cannot be cleaned with water or liquid products. Also, avoid leaving newspapers resting on leather LA-Z-Boy recliners, as the ink will bleed and stain.

Tags: LA-Z-Boy recliners, foot rest, LA-Z-Boy recliner, pop-up foot, pop-up foot rest, company website