Showing posts with label Home and Garden. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Home and Garden. Show all posts

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Seasonal Home Decor Freshness


Seasonal changes to your home decor will bring a new sense of freshness to your home.
Every season has a flavor. Enjoy the flavor of winter by giving your home a new look a new warmth this time. This winter add some warmth and coziness with the addition of colors to your home with the use of heavy fabrics. The use of carpets and rugs will also help you give a warm look to your home.
With the arrival of winters get yourself inspired by the rainbow colors. Seasonal decoration adds charm to your home by giving it a new look.
During the winters you would need lots of lamps, wooden articles for the corners and lots of cushions to sit on the floor near the fire place or in the living room would add up the mildness of the living room.
Other than these get your hands on the quilts and throws that you can place on your couches and sofa’s so that when ever you grab a cup of coffee you can slip into these throws and enjoy the comfort. For winter home decor apart from playing with bright colors go for floral prints, scented candles and warm textile.
Scented candles will add up to the winter’s pleasant ambience. You will fee more relaxed when you step into your home. Choose your candles according to your home decor or the theme they are being used for. Use them so that you home decor gives you a feeling of warmth and comfort.
Add up some colors that not only sooth you but also excite you in the dull and gloomy winters. This winter you should contract some bright colors and play with them. Add floral prints in your dinning as well as your living room. Use of natural as well as artificial flowers would add the brightness to the home decor this winter.
Home decor should be innovative and creative according to the needs of the season and the people living in the home. Home decor plays an important part in every ones life specially while the seasons change if you change your home decor it will blow a new spirit into you.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Lovable Decoration Tips for You Family Home

Decoration of your home, whether big or small is not a difficult job if you go for simple, exotic yet- innovative & creative home decor ideas.
Decoration of home and interior designing of one’s own choice is dream of every person. Everybody wants to make his/her home beautiful, exotic and decoration and for this everybody go for numerous home decor ideas and tips.
Your home is the place where you get ultimate peace so it should be a peaceful, serene and welcoming place. Your home do not ever crowded with things and home decor accessories. Simple and yet beautiful home can build with simple and small home decor accessories too. You do not need big and expensive home decor items for this decoration purpose. By adding small decor accessories and with lot of creative home decor ideas you can easily create a beautiful ambiance of your home. After all, your house depicts your style, choice and personality. Your home decoration represents your ultimate interest towards your home.
Decoration of your home, whether big or small is not a difficult job if you go for simple yet innovative & creative home décor ideas. Decoration can not only enhance the ambiance of your home but also satisfy your quench towards a beautiful and exotic home. To create and elegant home décor, here are some very easy and useful home décor tips for you which not only satisfy your aesthetic sense but also make your home a beautiful, decorative and a welcoming place.
Home Décor Tips: -

  • First of all, decide that you want to re structure your home decoration or just need to bring some changes in your existing home decoration.

  • After this step, you need to find out the areas which need decoration and changes. Your home is your own personal space. In this regard, make your own choices & implement your own home décor ideas but home interior designer’s consultation is also must in this important matter.

  • Now with your interior designer’s tips & with your own aesthetic ideas, plan your home decoration map. Check out the home décor magazines & home decoration websites for further.

  • Go for home décor shopping. Buy the necessary home décor items & collectibles to decorate the areas.

  • Purchasing of home décor items & collectibles is also a hectic job. Go for exotic, unique things on fewer prices. It is not necessary that only expensive home décor item can make your home. Choose simple furniture but keep in mind that you have to match your furniture, rugs & curtains to create a whole and perfect look.

  • If your house need a white wash or to be colored, then first ask for a sample then go for final touch. Your coloring should also match with your furniture, curtains & rugs. You can also try dark or light color combination to create a different ambiance.

  • You can also use mirrors as your home decoration item. Mirrors can enhance your home interior & decoration.

  • Lighting is also a very important in home decoration. Lighting provides an explanation of your home and also create ambiance in your home. A perfect lighting which suits or match with your other home décor items is essential as well.

  • Beside all these home décor accessories, you can also add other details to decorate your home like book racks, interesting lamps, fragrant candles, flowers & decorative pillows.

  • Ultimately, your home is the reflection of who you are. Do Design and decor your home so that you can live comfortable, peaceful and satisfied life.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Up To Date Home Decor Impresson


Colours splashes always bring a new look to your home décor and give the impression of being up-to-date with vogue.
Painting your home with beautiful colours is an easy way of giving your home décor a fresh look. With the start of New Year we always try to give new look to our accessories because it gives us a feeling of go with the flow. Choosing new colour scheme for your home décor is not an easy task and need some caution with good aesthetic sense.
While selecting a colour scheme for your home at the start of New Year, you must consider the colour scheme, which will create comfortable and relaxing environment in your home. While talking about colour schemes for home décor, gray and brown will be new paint trends in 2011. These colours can be used in different shades and tones to create a stylish effect. Gray always gives a decent look and can be used in combination with dark chocolate brown to make your home décor more stylish. These colour trends will not only be use for paints only, but will be used in furniture and other accessories as well. You can also use subtle color tones and soft shades in combination to create a soft and soothing environment in your home décor.
Colour is the most important element in your home décor that can bring a novelty and create a comfortable and relaxing decoration as well. Colour trends for home décor changes every year with slight variation and sometimes you can also go for your own liking while selecting a colour. But we should keep in mind that it’s not just a neutral thing, they have certain effect on our behavior and mood. Colours from natural environment can be added in home décor accessories to have a soothing consequence on your mind and mood.
Balancing is the most important factor in home décor that can be done easily by using different accessories in matching combinations. Sometimes you have to decide colour scheme for home décor according to its size and shape because by different combinations we can get our desired effect and easily give a vast appearance to a small home.

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Johnny Depp Spent 8.5 Million on home in Venice for Palazzo Dona Sangiantoffetti


Johnny Depp has reportedly spent £8.5 million on a home in Venice as ‘The Tourist’ actor is so much in love with the city during filming last year.
The 47-year old actor, who spent saveral months in the Italian city with his family while shooting ‘The Tourist’ with Angelina Jolie and got enthralled with the stunning location that he has bought the 17th century Palazzo Dona Sangiantoffetti.
The Hollywood star has outbid an Arab prince for the empty building, which is one of the only available homes overlooking the famous Grand Canal.
Johnny, who has two children Lily Rose, 11, and eight-year-old Jack with his French partner revealed he loved to walk around the city late night.
He said: “My experience of Venice really happened between 10pm and 2am when the streets closed and I was able to walk around and experience the poetry of Venice, the ghosts of Venice, all those wonderful dark alleys.

Tips About Heart of Your Home


Kitchen said to be the heart of your home. It is the place where all family sit together, having chit chat & get together over lunch or dinner. So, this focal area of your home needs extra attention towards its cleanliness.
Cleaning of your kitchen can be fun. Kitchen is that place/corner of your house which needs extra attention and proper cleaning plan from the house lady. A neat and clean, sterile and full of aroma kitchen is the desire of every woman. Maintaining and maintenance of kitchen comes after cleaning. If your kitchen is not hygienic, neat and clean then you can handle the overall maintenance of your kitchen wisely.
Majority of the women face problems towards the cleaning of their kitchen. Cleaning of your kitchen is very important as kitchen seems to be the heart of any home. All family members sit together in the kitchen, having family and friendly chit chat over the breakfast, lunch and dinner. At individual level, the children come in the kitchen while mom is busy in cooking. They share their problems, issues and other things with their mom in a very warm, friendly and convenient way. If your kitchen is dirty, untidy and unhygienic then the family members can’t enjoy the family conversation and also can’t enjoy the real taste of mom’s cooking.
The taste of cooking also depends upon the cleanliness of kitchen. A neat and clean kitchen depicts the personality and house-hold management skills of the woman. So, it is very important for a woman to clean her kitchen in a smooth but wise way.
With the help of our simple kitchen cleaning tips, you can clean your kitchen in a short pace of time and win the heart of your family members.
Tips on Cleanliness of your Kitchen:
  • Clean your kitchen and kitchen related accessories once in a week. Don’t put your kitchen cleaning plan on months. If you do your kitchen cleaning on monthly basis then it will take lot of time and effort and you might exhaust in between the process. So, the first step towards cleaning is to make your kitchen cleaning plan on weekly basis.

  • Arrange your kitchen utensils and kitchen accessories separately. Don’t place silver steel utensils and plastic accessories at one place. Make separate counters and cabinets for all kitchen related things.
    You can place heavier kitchen utensils in the bottom shelves while lighter utensils can be placed in the upper and front shelves.

  • After managing the kitchen accessories, there comes their cleanliness. Clean your kitchen shelves and cabinets weekly. You can use caustic soda and lime water for this purpose.

  • For the cleanliness of spice containers, use lemon juice and caustic soda. Mix caustic soda in lemon juice and dip all your spice containers in this liquid for 10-15 minutes. Then wipe them with a neat and dry piece of cotton.

  • Your oven/micro wave also needs your attention. Remove stains and dirt from your oven with a good quality stain remover which has lemon ingredients in it. Use plain water soaked pads for the inner cleaning of the oven.

  • Refrigerator cleaning is also must during whole kitchen cleaning practice. Arrange vegetables, fruits, liquids and other eatable items in a well mannered way. You can also use plastic sheets or spare news paper upon the refrigerator’s shelves and on vegetable basket to have a neat and tidy look.

  • To clean the outer sheets of your kitchen cabinets, kitchen counter, kitchen table and kitchen windows. Use lemon juice and white vinegar. It will not only clean these things but also add a sparkling look to them.

  • For the cleanliness of kitchen floor, use detergent and products which have lemon ingredients. Lemon ingredients not only clean your kitchen floor but also will give a soothing and serene aroma to your kitchen.

Sexifying Bedroom on Valentine's Day


Valentines Day is spreading colours of love and romance among people and it needs some time at our home too. This is a special day for lovers to express love to people who are very near to heart and have special importance in your life.
This Valentines Day give your lover a surprise by decorating your home in a different way. Here are some tips to bring valentine spirit to your home. Adding Red and pink colour in your home décor accessories will bring a romantic colour in your home and surely bring smile to faces.
First thing you can do for a romantic home décor is to clean your home because a clean home will enhance the beauty of valentine accessories that you will use for decoration.
Candles are the best romantic option for Valentines Day home décor; you can use different shapes of candles for home décor. Buy aroma candles for this special occasion to wrap the environment with fragrance of love and romance. You can also decorate candles with coloured ribbons to give them a different look. Use red ribbons on different accessories of your home to give them a colour of Valentines Day.
Buy heart shaped balloons of different colours and use them to decorate your home with them. Balloons in red colour look very romantic on Valentines Day but you can also choose other colours by keeping in mind your partners’ choice.
Make a carpet of red roses for your partner and let him feel special on this Valentines Day. You can use flowers of different colours for Valentines Day home décor because flowers are always romantic and all time favourite. Before selecting flowers you need to consider your partners choice because you have to make this special home décor according to your partners’ choice. Your care and concern about his likes will make him feel good. 
It really doesn’t matter if red and pink colours don’t go with your home décor, you can add these special colours for this special event that will surely add a special message of love and care for your partner.
Soft romantic music will add colour to your beautiful home décor on Valentines Day that is a special event for lovers around the world.

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Home Decoration Essentials


Decoration of your home, whether big or small is not a difficult job if you go for simple, exotic yet- innovative & creative home décor ideas.
Decoration of home and interior designing of one’s own choice is dream of every person. Everybody wants to make his/her home beautiful, exotic and decoration and for this everybody go for numerous home décor ideas and tips.
Your home is the place where you get ultimate peace so it should be a peaceful, serene and welcoming place. Your home do not ever crowded with things andhome décor accessories. Simple and yet beautiful home can build with simple and small home décor accessories too. You do not need big and expensive home décor items for this decoration purpose. By adding small décor accessories and with lot ofcreative home décor ideas you can easily create a beautiful ambiance of your home. After all, your house depicts your style, choice and personality. Your home decoration represents your ultimate interest towards your home.
Decoration of your home, whether big or small is not a difficult job if you go for simple yet innovative & creative home décor ideas. Decoration can not only enhance the ambiance of your home but also satisfy your quench towards a beautiful and exotic home. To create and elegant home décor, here are some very easy and useful home décor tips for you which not only satisfy your aesthetic sense but also make your home a beautiful, decorative and a welcoming place.
Home Décor Tips: -
  1. First of all, decide that you want to re structure your home decoration or just need to bring some changes in your existing home decoration.
  2. After this step, you need to find out the areas which need decoration and changes. Your home is your own personal space. In this regard, make your own choices & implement your own home décor ideas but home interior designer’s consultation is also must in this important matter.
  3. Now with your interior designer’s tips & with your own aesthetic ideas, plan your home decoration map. Check out thehome décor magazines & home decoration websites for further.
  4. Go for home décor shopping. Buy the necessary home décor items & collectibles to decorate the areas.
  5. Purchasing of home décor items & collectibles is also a hectic job. Go for exotic, unique things on fewer prices. It is not necessary that only expensive home décor item can make your home. Choose simple furniture but keep in mind that you have to match your furniture, rugs & curtains to create a whole and perfect look.
  6. If your house need a white wash or to be colored, then first ask for a sample then go for final touch. Your coloring should also match with your furniture, curtains & rugs. You can also try dark or light color combination to create a different ambiance.
  7. You can also use mirrors as your home decoration item. Mirrors can enhance your home interior & decoration.
  8. Lighting is also a very important in home decoration. Lighting provides an explanation of your home and also create ambiance in your home. A perfect lighting which suits or match with your other home décor items is essential as well.
  9. Beside all these home décor accessories, you can also add other details to decorate your home like book racks, interesting lamps, fragrant candles, flowers & decorative pillows.
    Ultimately, your home is the reflection of who you are. Do Design and decor your home so that you can live comfortable, peaceful and satisfied life.

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Styling the Kitchen Curtain


Kitchen curtains play vital role in kitchen decor as they enhance mood and aura of a kitchen. So, when concern is kitchen decor, go for stylish but sensible kitchen curtains ideas that compliment and accentuate whole kitchen.
If kitchen curtain are wisely selected they really add extra appeal to kitchen making it spacious and beautiful and of course the texture, print patterns, motif, color combination and designs of kitchen curtain do have importance. Look for kitchen curtains ideas to make your kitchen appealing for luxury living and lifestyle.
Kitchen curtain theme
While purchasing kitchen curtain, keep in mind kitchen theme and color scheme. If the selected kitchen curtains are mismatched, go for appropriate kitchen curtains that beautify and suit kitchen theme and color scheme like for country kitchen decor do not buy modern kitchen curtains as they will destroy its look and would be misfit.
Light factor for kitchen curtains
Curtain block glare and create an atmosphere of isolation but if you want to bestow a special look to your kitchen go for light hue kitchen curtains as they stop inside glimpse but reflect much light that enlightens kitchen making it vast and wide. Also for more sunlight use white or caramel color curtains that reduce a dense look of kitchen and make kitchen clean and sober.
Lace kitchen curtains
Using lace kitchen curtains endow style and class to kitchen decor. Go for variety of kitchen curtains fabrics and patterns and then adorn them with colorful laces or according to your kitchen decor. Flirty laces add glamour to kitchen making it modern and elegant. Laces can be used over different prints of kitchen curtains to enhance their outlook.
Cafe kitchen curtains
Cafe kitchen curtain cover bottom half of kitchen window and upper half of kitchen door. They are both for privacy and air at a time. You may go for colorful cafe kitchen curtains that really add up to your kitchen decor providing you privacy along. The most common trend for cafe kitchen curtains is the checkered style.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Appropriate Decorations for Small Homes


Decorating small home needs special care and attention as you cannot experiment much with little space. But with little efforts and technical considerations can transform tiny place into spacious one. Small home decorating ideas are a guide to teach you how to make your small space equally appealing and beautiful as that of large bungalows only need is to create space illusion that you can easily by just following these simple and best small home décor ideas.
Furniture selection for small home decor
Furniture is the major factor that makes a place spacious or occupied. So, select furniture accordingly whenever you have to decorate small space. Avoid bulky sofas, large drawer chests, huge bed and tables as they cover half of space making it over loaded and crowded. Rather a meticulous option is sofa-cum-bed that can be unfolded as bed in night. Use armless open chairs, low tables and metal frame sofas with cushions as they open up space making it beautiful and elegant together.
Furniture arrangement in small home
Appropriate furniture arrangement is the next step for small home decoration as it too is very important to infuse life into small home. If you have one or two huge furniture pieces place them against longest wall of home as it fills that area making it focal point of small home. But while arranging furniture avoid placing bulky furniture midway as it snags walking space and creates confined look. One of the major small home décor ideas is to avoid furniture at entrance as it makes your small home wide and ample.
Proper lighting ideas for small home decor
Use of proper lights either artificial or natural enlivens small home décor as small home no more remains small visually. Only you need to utilize appropriate illuminating system i.e. through natural light, ceiling lights, wall lights, lamps, soft lights and incandescent lights to eliminate shadows. Use of more lights makes small home beautiful giving it an illusion of larger space.
Appropriate color scheme
Go for light hues for walls and curtains like soft shades of pink, green, aqua, cream and off white that endow a feel of more space and airy environment. Selecting appropriate color scheme is one of the best small home decor ideas.
Use less home decorating accessories and more mirrors to reflect light as they impart more life, space and area to small home.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Knife Sharpening Techniques


If cooking and carving are your thing, you had better know how to sharpen a knife. After all, a dull knife can be more dangerous than a sharp one. A dull knife tends to slide around, and is quite unpredictable. A blade owned by one who knows how to sharpen a knife is safer. It gets the job done, whatever that job may be.
Here is what you need to learn and practice how to sharpen a knife:

  • Cylindrical sharpening steel with a handle
  • Knife to sharpen (NOT a serrated blade)


  1. Hold the sharpening steel by the handle in your left hand, while standing at a kitchen counter. Use the right hand if you are left handed. Place it tip down on a wooden cutting board or nonslip silicone potholder that won't slide. Hold it securely perpendicular to the counter, handle side up.
  2. Now, hold the knife in your right hand. Put the blade horizontal to the steel, on the side of the steel that's farthest away from you. Place the knife so the blade touches the steel where the blade meets the handle.
  3. Put the knife blade at a slight angle to the steel. Move the blade down along the steel in an arching downward movement. Do this a dozen times on one side of the knife. Then do it a dozen times on the other side of the blade.
  4. Rinse your knife under running water. Dry the knife thoroughly before using it. After you use your knife, wash, rinse, and dry it well, too, especially if you have sliced lemons or other acidic foods that can cause knife dullness. Now you know how to sharpen a knife every time it's needed!

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Tips for making interior lighting at home better


Update interior lighting in your home, and you will improve the look of your decor, the overall feeling, and the quality of your lighting plus bring your lighting into style. Just like other elements of your home decor, the light fixtures you use will go out of date and need upgrading.

Types of Lighting

Wall sconce lighting is a very decorative way to light a dark hallway in style while making the area cozy and dramatic yet functional. In bathrooms, using sconces creates a feeling of being at a fancy spa and provides shadow-free light that is great for grooming, shaving, applying makeup, etc. There are actually hundreds of choices in wall lighting fixtures, so matching your decor is no problem.

Wall lighting also comes in swing lamps where the arm allows the lights to swing out to throw light in different ways. Another very dramatic and functional type of wall lighting is track lighting.  Track lighting consists of a series of lights on a track that can be used for lighting focal points of your room like a special piece of artwork. Track lighting can also be set to light the whole room.

Ceiling lighting is a good way to embellish your decor while still providing functionality. They work well in almost any location like bedrooms, hallways, foyers, stairways, utility rooms and almost any other area that needs extra illumination. These fixtures come in a large variety of styles, designs and colors. They also can be mounted flush with the ceiling or semi-flush depending on the height of the ceiling.

Recessed lighting is energy efficient and decorative and can be found in both indoor and exterior lighting choices. Installing recessed lighting is easy installation and can be done even if the ceiling is not being replaced. The lights throw either indirect lighting effects or direct lighting depending on the location and style.

Discount Lighting Fixtures and Installation

No matter which one of the lighting structures you choose to use to update interior lighting in your home, using three-way bulbs can make your project even more fashionable, effective and more energy efficient.  Dimmer switches are also very easy items to install to create atmosphere.

Once you have decided on the best type of lighting for your decor, you will find that there are many options available for discount lighting kits and fixtures both in retail stores and on the Internet.  Another very spectacular way to change the look of your room is to search for lighting in auctions and flea markets. Contemporary lighting choices were not as popular a few years ago as they are now, so it is very possible to find really wonderful deals.

On the Internet, you will find some websites that are strictly for selling contemporary lighting fixtures at very low prices. Stores that deal in Swedish brands of furniture usually offer very affordable contemporary fixtures for lighting. Ebay is always a good source to find deals, and you can usually find them at very low prices. However, having large and heavy pieces shipped can be more expensive than the savings you might find on the fixture. Also, any time you have glass objects shipped, you are taking your chances with the package arriving in one piece.

Updating interior lighting is an excellent way to make your home more efficient and more beautiful. Lighting kits are available in any type of lighting style, so it is easy to match or accentuate your existing decor theme.

Inferior lighting can become a problem in a very subtle way. Using sconce lighting, wall lighting and indirect lighting all add interesting effects but do need to be upgraded every few years to be the most effective.

What cant be the influencing mexican Home decorations?


In Mexico there is a word for a place of respite and sanctuary: Hacienda. More than just a mere estate, a hacienda is a refuge from the world. The trademark of a hacienda is its welcoming nature. A true hacienda serves as an oasis from the heat of the day and the cares of the world. Create your own hacienda with south of the border decorating that incorporates all the best that Mexico has to offer.

Old Mexico Style Home Decor

The first though many people have when they think of Mexican décor is of tacky sequined sombreros and gaudy woven blankets. However, those who have traveled extensively know that these items are offered largely for tourists and don’t reflect the true Mexican aesthetic. True Mexican style is a combination of the traditions of the native tribes of Mexico and the Spanish who later conquered the country before intermarrying with the locals to create a new culture. The result is a mixture of vivid native charm and classic old European style. To capture the look at home with south the of the border decorating, follow these tips.

Find images of traditional Mexican decor and take a color pallet from there. Artificially colored pink and teal are not traditional Mexican colors. Instead, look for earthy neutrals like Terra cotta, warm beige, soft gold, and clay. Add splashes of bright color with accent items.
Mexico is known for its traditional Mexican handicrafts. Items like painted pottery, woven blankets, baskets, paper flowers, and carved stone are all produced in Mexico and usually easy to find at good prices. You might even want to look at local thrift shops and flea markets.
Mexican haciendas are meant to be cool and open, so bring a spacious feel to a room by leaving the floor plan as open as possible. Consider removing doors entirely to create an open, airy feel.
Incorporate natural elements as much as possible. Look for naturally colored or lightly stained wood furniture, rough wool or sisal rugs, terra cotta tiles or pottery, and even animal skulls treated with resin. Traditional food items like dried chili peppers, garlic, and corn add a homey feel.
Furniture should be oversized and rustic. Traditional Mexican furniture is usually made of carved wood and upholstered with leather or colorful woven fabric. A rough cut table is a wonderful centerpiece for a traditional Mexican kitchen.
Silver is the most common metal found in Mexican decor. Incorporate silver in items like candlesticks, chargers, and artwork. If you are on a budget, look for silver plated or pewter items.
The second most common metal in south of the border decorating is wrought iron. Although readily available in much of the Western United States, those outside the area may have more luck finding wrought iron pieces in stores that specialize in garden or outdoor accessories.
Hang artwork from Mexican artists. Google “Mexican painters,” for plenty of ideas that range from traditional artwork by native peoples to modernist paintings.
Remember the most important thing about traditional Mexican decor is creating a feeling of refuge and welcome. Warmth, comfort, and ease are the words that should come to mind when using south of the border decorating.

Old Trend for your Kitchen


Change up the style and layout of your entire kitchen and with a fantastic retro kitchen table set. 50's home decor is making a huge comeback with hip young 20-somethings who are drawn to its mod kitsch. Take yourself back in time to when Coca-Cola came in a glass bottle and rock n' roll was the newest thing in the world with a retro kitchen table set.

Chrome and Vinyl Kitchen Sets to Die for

For a lot of people, a dream kitchen doesn't always come with contemporary furnishings. Many of us are far more interested in the designs and decor of  the past, while others are consumed by the fashions of the future. Both types will be satisfied with retro kitchen decor from the 50's that manages to combine a sense of nostalgia with a hint of futurisitic styling. These elements come together best in a retro kitchen table set.

Start with the layout of your kitchen so that you can properly place your new retro kitchen table set in a spot that just screams perfection. This is where you want to make sure that the shape and design of the new retro kitchen decor will fit in with the entire kitchen design you have chosen. In other words, pick a theme and stick with it. The best thing about a retro design is that you can have a lot of fun with color. Try unexpected combinations like sea foam green and tangerine to bring in a 50's vibe with a modern edge.

A beautiful arrangement of rounded angles and bright pastel colors are what retro kitchen design is all about. Chrome and vinyl are two elements that you will constantly see used throughout all types of vintage retro kitchen decor. Modern pieces inspired by retro furniture may use more organic materials like leather of dyed cotton. Strive for a mix of both vintage and new pieces to keep your kitchen inspired by the 50's but not stuck in them. For example, top a 1950's dining set with fresh flowers or square dinnerware to keep things feeling relevant.

There are a lot of places to find retro kitchen table sets. Start by looking in antique stores, but don't rush to buy something unless you really love it since prices in these stores are often inflated. Don't be afraid to bargain with the store owner or manager. Consider offering something in trade to lower the price. Flea markets are often a cheaper place to find vintage retro decore, but there will be a lot of competition for high quality items. Try posting a free online classified describing what you are looking for and the perfect dining set may come to you and will probably be at an excellent price. Lastly, let friends and family know what you are looking for. Someone may have an elderly relative who would be willing to sell you an old dining set they own.

How to Get South Western Look?


There is something wonderful and warm about Tucson South West decor. The style is rustic without being rough and fun without being childish. Any home can become a desert retreat with a few simple South-Western elements. Tucson decorating isn't hard to do, and best of all, it's easy on the budget.

How to Get that South Western Look

There is no mistaking the look of Tucson South West Decor. So many parts of America have lost their regional flavor, but Tucson and the American Southwest have remained true to their cultural roots. Tucson is a melting pot of cultures and ideas. The area smoothly incorporates the flavors and aesthetics of Native American tribes, its Mexican neighbors, and all-American cowboy culture. Here you'll find southwest decor that embraces nature and the rich culture of the area. To get the look at home, simply follow the locals and "go Native."

Tucson Colors

Spicy reds, oranges, and gold merge with brilliant splashes of cool turquoise for a truly iconic color pallet that can be found throughout the American Southwest. These colors are no accident; they are taken directly from the desert that surrounds Tucson and the southwest in general. Red cliffs, golden sand, silvery sage, and brilliant blue skies paint the perfect desert scene.

The first step to getting the Tucson look at home is incorporating the traditional color scheme into the room. Try painting the walls a warm neutral and keeping the furniture dark and simple. Add splashes of brilliant color in throws, pillows, window treatments, and accessories.

Tucson Textures

Tucson South West decor is full of rich, natural textures. Metal is found in its natural, weathered state, and warm, natural woods abound. Look for furniture with exposed wooden frames. For an even more rustic and authentic look, find pine log furniture.

The Native American tribes around Tucson are known for their skilled weaving, so incorporating fabric with traditional woven patterns is a must. If you can't afford authentic Native weavings, large rag rugs and thick, knit wool throws can serve just as well.

Other textures inspired by nature are also excellent additions to south west decor. Look for woven baskets, stoneware, plaster, and leather items to add layers of texture to the room.

Tucson Accessories

Of course, the funnest part of decorating a room is adding accessories to complete the look. Common items used in Tucson South West decor include the following: wood carvings, painted pottery, woven baskets and chargers, cowhides, saddles, boots, spurs, cowboy hats, rope, candles, dried flowers, and metal art. Bring touches of the desert indoors with plantings of succulents and cacti or a large hurricane jar filled with colored sand.

You can also bring an instant southwest flavor to a room with paintings by artists commonly associated with the Southwest such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Walter Ulfer. There are also many contemporary artists that focus on the American Southwest that sell their work for very reasonable prices. Google "southwestern art" for plenty of sites offering paintings, sculpture, and other art works that will enhance any room.

No matter where you live, you can easily bring the warmth and sense of hospitality seen in Tucson to your own home. So create your own desert oasis and do what they do in the Southwest: share it with friends.

How to install disposable sink?



In sink disposal installation can be a great way to save money on that new disposal you want. Perhaps you have a broken disposal on your hands and you need to know how to install a new one. Do it yourself disposal installation projects should be done carefully and correctly so that your new sink garbage disposal works properly. That being said, installing a sink disposal is easily within reach of the average do it yourself-er.

Basic Disposal for Kitchen Sinks

Sink disposal installation for a broken disposal or a new disposal is fairly straightforward. A new installation is going to be more difficult than replacing a broken disposal. This is because everything is already there when the disposal is being replaced, but if you are installing a new one, you have to do a few more things.

Do it yourself disposal preparation

Measure the dimensions under your sink because all disposals need a certain amount of room for the mechanism to fit.
You will need to properly install a ground fault circuit interrupter outlet, also called GFCI. This will be needed to give power to your new disposal and it makes the off/on switch available for easy access once connected. You can choose from any kind of switch from a traditional house switch to a wireless remote switch that can be placed anywhere. If you are replacing an old disposal, this step will already be done. Most newer homes are pre-wired with a GFCI under the sink.
Always turn the circuit power off before beginning the installation.
Basic Sink Disposal Installation

  • Completely remove the sink's waste assembly. This will be located in the flange trap area of your sink. Having a bucket and towels around can help with cleaning any mess. Attach the new flange, which should have come with your new disposal. Have some plumbing putty so that you can put a bit around the flange for a perfect fit.
  • Attach the new mounting mechanism to the flange and use a thick book to hold it in place. Following the guide and instructions that you got when you purchased the sink disposal for placement.
  • Once mounted, attach the actual disposal and mounting mechanism together by first attaching the discharging tube.
  • Put your disposal right underneath the mounting part. There are metal tabs on the neck of the disposal that should easily slide onto the tracks. Rotate the ring for mounting as many times as it takes to lock the ridges on the mounting ring.
  • Adjust the entire mechanism until the discharging tube is completely lined up with the draining trap. Make sure that everything feels tight and secure. Remove any tools from the area so that you can turn the power back on.
  • When replacing a sink disposal, try using the "working backwards" method. When taking each part off, remember how it was so that you can fix your broken disposal problem as fast as possible by assembling the new unit in reverse.


How to install electric dyer?


Installing an electric dryer is a project that most do-it-yourselfers are capable of handling. Although not as simple as just plugging in the machine, the steps to hook up an electric dryer are straight forward and easy to follow. With a few precautions, that new dryer should be producing warm, fluffy clothes in no time.

Proper Wiring and Safe Handling

The most important thing to know about installing an electric dryer is how many volts the dryer requires to operate. Most newer dryers use 220 volts, but some older, smaller models only use 110 volts. If your home was built in the last few decades, odds are it is wired for 220 volts. A 220 volt outlet is distinctive with three holes, two of which are slanted at an angle. A 110 volt outlet is the standard outlet found throughout a house. If the available outlet doesn't match the voltage of the dryer, call a professional electrician to wire the correct outlet.

Before installing an electric dryer, gather the necessary materials. You will need:

  • A broom
  • A dryer hose (a flexible metal duct will last longer than a plastic or vinyl hose)
  • Hose clamps
  • Screwdrivers
  • Step by Step Instructions for Installing an Electric Dryer

Turn off the breakers that serve the dryer outlet. 220 volt dryers will have two breaker switches, a 110 volt outlet will only have one. Sweep the floor where the unit will be installed and make sure all surfaces are dry.
Fasten the dryer hose to the duct that vents outside with a hose clamp, available at most home improvement stores. Keep the dryer hose as short as possible. This will decrease drying time and reduce chances of the hose getting damaged or kinked.
Position the dryer into the space it will occupy. Make sure there are at least two inches of space around all sides of the unit. This is also a good time to put the owner's manual in a plastic bag and tape it to the back of the dryer.
Attach the other end of the dryer hose to the unit using another hose clamp.
Plug in the dryer and make sure that the hose is not crimped or crushed against the wall.
Turn the breakers back on and start the dryer to make sure it's working properly. Place some wet clothes in the dryer and run a full cycle to make sure everything is in order.
Electric Dryer Maintenance 

Clean the lint trap after every load, and wash it with dish soap, hot water and a scrub brush every 3 months.
Clean the dryer vent from the outside of the house every six months. You can purchase a special brush for the job at home improvement stores.
Once a year, remove the hose from the back of the dryer and clean out any excess lint.
Avoid using fabric softening sheets if possible. Residue from the sheets can clog up the lint trap. This buildup often isn't visible but can cause serious strain to your dryer's motor and heating elements.Can I Hook Up an

Pre-Preparations for Winters


Winte's here and with cooler temps comes the time when we have to think about what we need to do around our homes and property to get things ready for winter. In this article we will cover some of the things needed for winterizing your home and preparing your home for winter weather.

Home and Garden

Have you ever walked by your front door and felt a draft coming in from outside? Well that is a good place to start with winterizing your home. You can buy new weather stripping more commonly known as sweeps and install it along the bottom of your front and back doors. All Home Depot or hardware stores in your area should carry these so finding them should not be a problem.   Check the electrical outlets that are located on walls facing to the outside because they also can be letting cold air in. Make sure you caulk around your windows if you feel drafts there as well. There are options in caulking and you can get some help with that too at your local hardware stores.

Leave the Chill Outside

No matter what year your home was built you can always add additional insulation in the attic. The best rule of thumb about whether or not you need to add more this year is if you can see the ceiling joists then you need more insulation. Like anything else that has a fluffy type of texture, over time it will compact down and you will need to add more to make it effective. So the best way to leave the chill of winter outside is to make sure your home has adequate insulation. Again asking advice about what to use at your local hardware or home store is advised.

Heater System Tune Ups 

When you put a number of miles on your car you need an oil change or a tune-up. Well the same is true with the heating systems of your home. No matter whether you have a gas, oil or electric heating system it needs a tune-up. It needs to be serviced which usually means cleaning and in some cases parts replacement. This will help to give you the best heating efficiency from your system and also help to cut down on the cost of heating your home.  

There are a few more little tips for winterizing that folks never think about doing. The first big little tip is to reverse your ceiling fan. People never think about that but the fan will force warm air downward and help it not get lost in your ceiling and then up into your attic or the floor above. If you have a fireplace you should always keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not being used. If you have pipes in a crawl space make sure they are wrapped and insulated. While you are checking pipes make sure you turn off your outside water for your hoses.

How to Set up Washer?



While most women are experts in the laundry room—folding and sorting like goddesses of garments—actually installing new laundry appliances is unfamiliar territory. Fortunately, hooking up washing machine is less intimidating than it sounds.  You can hook it up yourself.  Many houses and apartments have a laundry room or closet that is ready and waiting to have a washer installed, requiring nothing more complicated than screwing a few hoses into place.
New Washer and Dryer?  Hook It Up Yourself!
New laundry appliances are more energy efficient and make those piles of smelly laundry a snap. If you have recently upgraded your laundry room, hooking up washing machine should be just as simple as sorting the towels from the t-shirts.

Make Sure Your Laundry Room Has Four Essential Things

Electrical outlet— Make sure the cord from the washing machine will comfortably reach the outlet in the wall.
Washer hookups— There should be two small taps for both hot and cold water, usually as part of a laundry sink or on the wall that will be directly behind the washing machine.
Drainpipe— This is usually a standing pipe in the wall near the water hookups. It drains the water away from the washing machine during normal use.
Floor drain— A small grate installed in the floor or a laundry pan complete with a drain are critical for minimizing damage in the unlikely event that your washer leaks.
Now look at the washer itself. It should have come with hoses that will connect it to the plumbing for the washing machine.   Make sure the hoses will reach. If they don't, you’ll need to contact the manufacturer or visit a home improvement store to acquire longer hoses.

Installing a Washer

Once you've made sure your laundry room is ready, you can follow these simple steps for installing a washer.

Attach the hoses to the back of the washer first. They should screw into place easily. Make sure they're tightened snugly.
Connect the hoses to the washer hookups in the wall. The taps should be clearly marked with red for hot and blue for cold. Again, make sure you twist them tightly into place, but not too tight. You don't want to strip the threads from the fittings.
The drain hose may already be attached to your washer. If not, use a hose clamp to secure it in place. Then feed the hose from the washer into the drain pipe.
Now turn on the taps and check to make sure nothing is leaking.
Once you've finished the above steps, you can gently scoot your washer closer to the wall. Be careful not to kink or smash the hoses. The washer should have an inch or two of space around it to allow for it to vibrate. Also, make sure the washer is level. If it's not, many come with adjustable feet.
Finally, run the washer through a short cycle without any clothing or detergent to clear the pipes and hoses and double check for any leaks.
If you do run into any complications, don't hesitate to consult your user manual or call the manufacturer. Now that you have successfully finished hooking up washing machine, feel free to sit back and ask someone else to sort colors and scoop soap. You've earned the break.

Creating Storage Space at Home


If you feel that you have too much stuff and not enough room for it all, you may need a few self storage ideas. Just about everyone can use tips on finding ways to organize and use hidden storage space. Sometimes all it takes is a little imagination, and you can put away all of the things that are cluttering your home.

Discover The Unused

When you are faced with the problem of too much stuff and not enough room, take a good look around your home and you can probably find places that you never considered to use for storage. Some of these may be under a staircase or behind water heaters. If you have an attic that is not finished but has a space with a small removable panel, there is an area that you can reach just around the edges, this is perfect for suitcases or plastic storage boxes. This in-house storage space is good for items that you are not worried about getting too hot. If you are putting suitcases up there, you can place clothes that are not in season in the suitcases. Place a few dryer sheets in the cases to decrease a musty smell and be sure to wash the clothes when you take them out.

One great way to increase storage space is by using heavy vacuum-sealed plastic bags. These bags are good for blankets, sweaters, and any other clothing. After the air is taken out, you can even fit more into the suitcases that you put in the hidden storage space around the attic. As an added bonus, the vacuum sealed bags will protect the clothes from moisture, dirt, and insects.

Take a good look in your closets. There are many places in there to use as hidden storage areas. If you do not have the organizational shelves and cannot purchase them, you can always use other things that you already have around your home to create more space. If your shoes are kept on the floor of the closet, there is in-house storage space in between the hanging clothes and the floor. Any items that you have to put away in shallow flat plastic boxes can be placed under the shoes without disturbing the clothes at all.

Using the clear plastic shoe holders that hang from a door are great in-house storage space for all of your accessories, the kids small toys, or craft items. Plastic bags from the grocery store, can be kept in a homemade bag holder. Any piece of material about 1 foot wide and 2 feet long will do, sew an elastic in each short end and then sew the long ends together, the bags will be kept nice an neat and can be kept on a hook inside a cabinet door.

When you need self storage ideas, just use your imagination and have a good look around your home. If you can afford it, purchase furniture that doubles as storage. Think ottomans that come with removable tops, and chests that can also be used as benches. These are just a few ideas, but it is easy to come up with own once you know a few tips.

How to use plastics for storage?


Plastic storage containers can be the answer to organizational problems. They come in so many shapes and sizes that it is possible to use them to solve all of your storage needs. Portable storage containers can hold painting supplies to kitchen cabinet food items and everything in between. Small plastic containers are great in drawers to keep socks and underwear organized and easy to find, especially for children.

Cheap Plastic Storage Containers 

When you shop in a dollar store, you can find name brand plastic storage containers that come in packs of two for $1.00. They are the smaller containers that are great for food or craft items, and they would cost over $3.00 if purchased in another store. If you ever buy the pre-sliced lunch meat that comes in the plastic containers, keep them. Take off the label on top, wash them, and you will see that they are brand name containers that can also be reused over and over again.

Plastic Storage Boxes Waterproof!

Most plastic storage containers are waterproof to a certain point. If you have a leak and water gets on the floor, whatever is kept in the containers will stay dry, but they cannot be immersed in water. When you need waterproof plastic storage containers, you can find them in specialty stores that sell equipment for camping. The lids will have a rubber seal around them to keep any water out. Smaller waterproof plastic storage containers, that you can wear around your neck when you go to water park or the beach, can be found just about anywhere in the summertime. These are great for keeping money, key rings, and other small items dry while swimming.

Advantages 

One of the best things about plastic storage boxes is that you can keep just about anything in them and move them around to suit the seasons. If you use one for spring, another for each season, you can buy stacking storage containers and move them so the season you will need next is on top. These stacking storage containers can be kept in a closet or garage. When putting clothes inside, try placing a dryer sheet in with them to keep them smelling fresh.

Plastic storage containers are not only boxes. You can buy a set of plastic drawers to keep in your playroom or young child's room, or even the dorm. These are nice because the drawers are clear and everyone can see what is inside, they are also portable storage because they come with wheels so you can bring them anywhere you need them.

Here are some other ideas using plastic storage containers:

  • Keep boxes under the bed. One can be used for purses and accessories, another for shoes, and still another for seasonal clothes like sweaters.
  • Use a shallow plastic storage container by the door for muddy or wet shoes, and keep the dirt outside instead of on your carpets.
  • Keep a small container in the car with emergency supplies or make your own first aid kit.
  • Plastic storage containers solve most organizational problems, and will hold just about anything you can think of. They are not very expensive and can be stacked in closets or garages. These boxes and drawers have quickly become the choice for storage.