How to Buy a Drafting Table

There are some people that work better standing or sitting up higher than a standard office chair allows. Because drafting tables typically tilt up to 45 degrees and have an adjustable height, they also can prevent slouching when standing or sitting, ultimately helping users avoid stiff necks and backs.

Instructions

1

Consider stability when buying a drafting table. Models with traction springs can help control balance and adjustments. Table bases made with heavy-gauge steel and stabilizing bars also bolster steadiness. Many models have locking casters, non-slip floor glides or floor levelers to help balance drafting tables on uneven surfaces.

2

Look for hassle-free adjustments. Consider whether you can change the angle of the work surface easily without tools.

3

Protect your drawing tools or other items by looking for models equipped with lockable drawers. Even without locks, storage drawers are useful for keeping your supplies nearby.

4

Make sure a drafting table can adjust to a height that supports you whether you are standing or sitting. A footrest crossbar on the base and ample legroom also can make sitting at your drafting table more comfortable.

How to Choose Dining Room Table Chairs

The dining room table is a main site for gatherings of family and friends. The chairs in a dining room should be comfortable as well as attractive. Through normal wear and tear, however, chairs often wear out long before the table. If the time has come to replace your dining room chairs, consider several factors ranging from color to ergonomics before making a final decision about which style of chair to buy. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Look at chairs that are the appropriate size for the dining room. Large chairs that fill out a larger dining room may seem clunky in a smaller dining room, suffocating the space. Small chairs save space in smaller dining rooms and come in a variety of shapes and styles.

2

Choose chairs made out of a material that matches or complements the material the table is made of as well as the dominant material found in the room. Funky, vintage, vinyl-padded chairs, for example, are well suited for a laminate table with chrome trim. Common materials used in dining room chairs include wood, metal, vinyl, leather and upholstery. Consider what materials are easier to clean. For example, finished wood, metal and vinyl is wiped clean with a damp cloth, whereas upholstery or cushion covers require cleaning with a steam vacuum or in the washing machine.

3

Pick a wood type, such as maple or oak, or a stain tone, such as cherry or mahogany, which goes well with the table if wood is the choice. Stay with a metal type such as cast iron or a metal finish such as chrome if the material choice is metal. For leather, vinyl or upholstery, choose a color or pattern that is in line with the style of the room. For a Western-style dining room, for example, upholstered chairs with Native American patterns are appropriate.

4

Coordinate with other furnishings, art and decorations in the dining room. Choose a style of chair that fits into the environment and with the scale and design of the table. For example, if the dcor is traditional or classical, consider Windsor, Chippendale or regency-style chairs. If you have a country-style table, try ladder-back chairs. If your dining room is modern, a wide range of contemporary styles are available.

5

Get the measurements for the chairs you are considering. Make sure the seat height in relation to table height is compatible for the range of heights of people that will dine at your table. Also, find chairs with a seat back height that is attractive in proportion to the table top.

6

Consult with your family regarding what kind of dining room chairs they find most comfortable. The consensus may be straight, flat-backed chairs, which support an upright posture and a straight spine, or it may be cushioned chairs with reclining backs, which are more conducive to kicking back and relaxing.

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Take into account whether or not the chairs will double for other purposes in other rooms. If so, choose chairs that are lightweight and can be moved frequently without the threat of scratching the finish. Folding or stacking chairs are appropriate choices when moved regularly. With folding or stacking chairs, you can buy extras for bringing out when guests are expected.

Can You Use a Sofa Table as a Dining Table?

Hosting guests and having lively conversation around a dining table counts as one of the activities that makes entertainining so enjoyable. However, not all homeowners have a dining table for this purpose, or the table they do own will not accommodate the number of guests invited to the house. If this is the case, using other alternatives like the sofa table is acceptable, and, in fact, echoes the way guests dine in some Eastern decorating motifs. Does this Spark an idea?

The Setup

Using a sofa table as a dining table isn't a far-fetched idea. In fact, many decorating traditions, like Japanese decorating, actually encourage the use of tables that are no higher than the coffee table as part of their dining room decor. These styles make use of cushions positioned around the table to function as the seating. When using the sofa table, you can add cushions, but also make use of the couch and chairs you have around the table as well, depending on how high these furniture items sit in relation to the table itself.

Adjustable Tables

Some of the newer styles of coffee tables come with adjustable legs or pull outs, which give you greater latitude when trying to convert the sofa table to the dining table. The pull outs expand the actual amount of table space you have on which you can place dinner plates, silverware and glasses while leaving the center of the table free for the serving platters. The tables with adjustable legs raise up to dining table height, allowing you to scoot chairs underneath the table.

Protecting the Table

If you normally use the sofa table for other activities, you'll want to take steps to protect the table against scratches or burn marks from hot plates. Add a tablecloth to the table and place mats to each place setting before you lay anything else down on the table. These items will guard against scratching and provide the first layer of defense against the damage that hot cups or plates can do. Also look for wooden trivets or hot pads to put under hot dishes you have on the table; a large butcher block provides an even better option because of its thickness and portability.

Considerations

If you've only provided floor cushions for your guests, there will be some guests who will have difficulty with this arrangement. They may not have the ability to get up from the floor because of age issues or physical ailments. Several solutions exist for this. If the table is physically close to the couch, have the guest sit on the couch instead of the floor. TV trays set up next to a chair nearby will allow the guest to interact with the others while still acknowledging the limitations the guest faces.

How to Combine the Living & Dining Rooms

The dining room may be an endangered concept as people opt for unusual residential conversions, smaller spaces and a more informal lifestyle. In a loft, a combined living and dining room is standard. In some suburban homes, the living areas are designed as an open plan. In an apartment, keeping pocket doors wide open creates free flow between rooms. In an historic building, dining space may be carved out of another room entirely. Follow a few simple design precepts to plan the merger of a living and dining room and create visual harmony in a dual purpose space. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Use color to unify two spaces into a large open space. Paint all the walls one color and keep to the same floor treatment throughout. A new home with tile floors and neutral walls is a blank canvas for personal design. Choose lighter colors to maximize the sense of spaciousness and fill both dining and living areas with the clean lines of minimalist furniture. Pull together adjacent rooms in a smaller space with a shared accent wall in a vivid burnt orange or jewel-like jade green. Hang art on the accent wall that moves seamlessly from the dining to the living areas -- a framed photography collection, ethnic masks, a mix of sketches and paintings. Use the same neutral Sherpa pile carpet under the dining table and in the seating area of the living room.

2

Preserve what is unique about an awkward space. Exploit the history of the architecture when you convert an old building to a residence. Keep the sweeping arches of a faded brick wine cellar and fill them with a kitchen that flows into a dining area and rounds out in a living room. Let the patina of age provide the only dcor. Use furnishings in elemental materials: Industrial metal appliances, a wooden refectory table, a low modern sofa in unbleached hemp or linen. Install uplighting and a few discrete spotlights to highlight the architecture. Letting the space speak for itself creates a balance between its history and present use.

3

Undecorate. Choose focal points in a long skinny room that houses both living and dining areas. Compensate for a narrow layout and uneven light with an open expanse of floor, walls ceiling and trim painted a single color and spare window treatments that let in light. Spotlight large paintings on the walls in both areas to avoid creating a fussy ambiance. Fill clear glass vases at opposite ends of the space with masses of the same, large showy flowers or with bare twisted branches. Polish an inherited wood dining table and leave it bare of tablecloths and decoration. Pick up the textile colors of the dining chair cushions with pillows in similar patterns and hues on the solid fabric sofa and matching upholstered chairs in the living room area.

4

Expand your small living/dining space by sizing necessary furniture to scale. In small spaces, pick a love seat over a full sofa, an armless chair or a molded modern bucket rocker over a fat club chair with padded arms, a perfectly square table for four over a full dining set. Replace a chandelier with a sleek, flat pendant in a low-ceiling space. Keep the art small and simple and let the existing architecture -- features like fireplaces or unusual windows -- take center stage. Build custom shelves from floor to ceiling, but paint them to match the walls for maximum storage with minimal visual impact. Use blond wood to blend in with light furnishings, instead of dark wood, which tends to arrest the eye.

Living Room Set Up Ideas

Finding the right arrangement for your living room furniture can be difficult. Large, open rooms can be especially daunting. However, if you avoid placing living room furniture against the walls and instead create groupings, the task becomes slightly easier. Create focal points, make natural divisions in a room and keep colors harmonious, and you will find an arrangement that works. Does this Spark an idea?

Focal Point

Make a furniture piece in each area of a room a focus. In some living room settings this would be an entertainment center, a piano or some other large, important piece of furniture. This is the anchor for the room and you want to position your sofa opposite your focal point, leaving enough room for traffic to go behind and in front of it. Place rugs in front of your sofa, leaving some space in front of your focal furniture piece. Position other seating, such as armchairs, on either side of the sofa to form a U shape. Position smaller furniture in the spaces that look empty.

Natural Divisions

Create divisions in large rooms. These divisions can be made through furniture placement or by using something like a folding screen to separate the living and dining areas. For instance, face sofas and armchairs away from dining areas. Use distance to make natural divisions. Place living room furniture at least 3 feet from the dining area. This will allow for comfortable sitting and leave room for walking. Create paths to and from sitting and dining areas.

Harmony

Keep the dcor harmonious by balancing large items against small ones. Make accessories complement each other in both color and style. Keep color balanced in a room and remember that dark colors make a room look smaller and can be a focal point. When dark colors are used against light ones, the darker colors tend to stand out. This effect can work for or against the room. When you choose the colors and patterns for your living room, decide which colors stand out and how much of another color you need to tone heavier colors down.

How to Organize a Dining Room

Your dining room may be the one room in the house that you rarely enter. When company comes over, you might just close the door, or throw whatever you've stacked on the table into the kitchen cupboards. If you organize the dining room to get rid of the clutter, you'll never have to worry when guests drop by unexpectedly. It's a lot easier than you think. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Organize a Dining Room

1

Take out extra chairs you rarely use. You might have a dining room table with an expandable leaf, letting you seat 10 or even 12 people. However, when your table is in its smallest position, you'll have extra chairs cluttering your dining room. Put one on each side of the buffet. Use them as armchairs in the living room. If your dining chairs are comfortable, use them as desk or office chairs. You might want to invest in high-end folding chairs. They look like regular dining room chairs, but are collapsible, letting you store them in the garage when not in use.

2

Bring in a buffet. You probably think of dining room furniture as just table and chairs. While these are integral, a buffet can add more storage, making it easier to organize the dining room. A buffet is a place to serve food and even put lamps. Depending on how much china you have, you might want to invest in a china cabinet.

3

Add bookshelves. You might not even have a dining room. You may be working with a great room that is a combination of the living room, dining room and kitchen. This makes it difficult to organize, because you have to deal with clutter from three rooms. Separate the space by building open bookshelves, to provide storage and separation without making the room feel closed off. Place vases or pottery on the new shelves that will look good from both rooms.

4

Hide your office. If you start a home business, you'll probably be working off the dining table for awhile. This might even overrun your entire space. You may have stacks of files and paperwork on your eating area. If you have to work out of your dining room, invest in an armoire, so you can hide your clutter when it's not in use.

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Have a room you can be proud of. This is the fun part of organizing a dining room. If you love a room, you'll want to keep it clean. If you are enamored with your furniture, you'll put away your craft projects. Decorating a dining room doesn't have to be expensive. Add crown molding. Spruce up walls and furniture with paint.

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Eat in your dining room everyday. Too often formal dining rooms are just a space that you use for holidays. If you go into the space everyday, clutter won't build up. You won't be tempted to leave shopping bags on the table, because they will have to be moved for dinner. Best of all, you'll be spending time with your family. This might even help you lose weight, because you'll be focusing on what you are eating, instead of what is on TV.

How to Refinish a Dining Table

Refinishing a dining table can be a labor-intensive, time-consuming job, depending on the amount of paint or stain on the original table. The good thing about refinishing a dining table is that it can be done at your leisure. Because of the chemicals used with refinishing, you should complete this project in a covered, but ventilated outside area, or in an area of the home that can be opened to the outside, yet blocked off from the rest of the house (basement, spare bedroom). Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Clean the dining table. Make sure there is no dust or cobwebs on the table. Lay out a thick layer of newspapers over the work surface, as the stripper will go through a thin layer and ruin the floor. Set the table in the middle of the newspapers.

2

Paint a thick coating of Strypeeze over a 2-foot section of the table. Allow the Strypeeze to set for a few minutes, then carefully scrape the old paint or stain off the table. Continue working in this manner until the entire table is stripped. You will not get all of the paint or stain off on the first go-round.

3

Lay out another thick layer of newspaper. Move the table to the clean papers. Roll up and discard the old papers. Paint the table with another coat of Strypeeze, paying particular attention to grooves and places where the original paint was difficult to remove. Go over the areas with steel wool and the scrapers, taking care not to gouge the table. Repeat this step until all of the old paint or stain is removed from the table.

4

Go over the table with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any grooves and scratches. Make sure all areas are smooth to the touch. Vacuum the table (or use a blower, if you are outside) to get rid of any sanding dust.

5

Paint or stain the dining table with the chosen color. If you are using stain, apply the first coat, then allow the table to set for 48 hours. The wood will soak up much of the stain. Apply more coats of stain, allowing each coat to dry for 48 hours until you reach the desired color. The more coats of stain you apply, the darker the wood will become.
If you are using paint, primer the table before painting. Depending on the dryness of the wood, you may need to apply one or two additional coats of paint after the first coat. If you want a distressed look, do not apply a coat of primer, and only apply one coat of paint.

How to Make Foyer Tables

The atmosphere of your home or apartment is established the minute you walk through the door, and a welcoming foyer area says a lot. A well placed foyer table is a functional accent to any home, giving you a place to drop off your keys after a long day, or a spot to hold a vase of fresh flowers, and building one yourself is well within reach. No one knows your tastes better than you do, and customizing your table helps you make sure that the new addition to your space is just the right fit. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Nail your table legs together. Begin with four 1 by 3 inch wood pieces and four 1 by 2 inch wood pieces, cut to the height of your table. Use wood glue to attach a 1 by 3 inch board on to a 1 by 2 inch board so they form a right angle. Let dry completely, then nail through the 1 by 3 inch board to attach the two, Make sure you use enough nails for a secure fit. Repeat for the other three legs

2

Attach side aprons to legs. Your side aprons will secure your side legs together on what will be the top of your table. The aprons measure 3/4 by 5 1/2 by 10 1/2 inches. Using a power saw, cut two lengths of 3/4 inch thick plywood to fit these measurements and place them horizontally, inside the end corners of two leg pieces. Using wood glue, glue the side apron in place, let dry, then nail into place. Repeat for the other side.

3

Attach front aprons. Measure a 3/4 inch thick piece of plywood so it fits the length of the table on the inside of the back and front legs. Your front and back aprons should be 10 1/2 inches wide. Nail in o place through the front of the table legs and the back of the table legs.

4

Cut your top piece. Make sure to measure to include an over hang of 1 3/8 inches over the tops of the legs on each side. Make sure your table top piece is at least 1/2 inch thick to provide enough stability. Cut to size with a power saw.

5

Nail in your top piece. Wood glue the top piece into place and let dry. Then nail the top piece to the aprons. It will help to drill guide holes before you begin nailing, to prevent the wood from splintering.

How to Make Drafting Table Plans

Drafting tables are an invaluable tool for woodworking enthusiasts that like to have their projects duplicated. Building one requires drawing a set of plans that will distinguish the different parts that make up the whole. Drafting table plans can be drawn on any paper, but the best is graph paper. Depending on how intricate the drafting table will be, some components can be purchased separately, with the tabletop being the one main custom-made piece. The support system used for the drafting tabletop can be portable or stationary; adjustable or set. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Tape a sheet of the graph paper from the planning pad to a smooth surface. Apply tape only to the corners. Determine the length and width of the desired drafting table. Create a scale by interpreting each of the blocks on the graph paper as a designated measurement. For example, one block can equal one inch.

2

Draw a horizontal line the length of tabletop according to the chosen scale. Draw another horizontal line one row of blocks below the tabletop line with a break in the line that covers two blocks on the graph paper. This space is where the number representing the length of the tabletop will be written.

3

Draw a diagonal line from the right end of the tabletop line moving to the left to represent the width of the tabletop. This line will dissect the blocks from corner to corner and will be on a 45-degree angle. Draw another diagonal line parallel to the width line one block to the right of that one. Again, leave a space in the center of that line to write the number representing the width of the tabletop.

4

Draw a horizontal line from the end of the diagonal line drawn in Step 3 the exact number of blocks as the horizontal line in Step 2. Finish the tabletop drawing by starting at the end of the last horizontal line back to the first horizontal line. This represents the size and shape of the tabletop of the drafting table.

5

Draw a short perpendicular line on the ends of each of the lines with a break in them. Make the length of these lines exactly one-block width. Do not connect these lines with the lines representing the tabletop of the drafting table. Write the numbers inside the line breaks that correspond with the length and width of the drafting tabletop.

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Draw a horizontal line above the one drawn in Step 2 to represent the paper stop. This wood piece is exactly perpendicular to the horizontal edge of the drafting tabletop. It can either be flush with the edge of the tabletop or up from the edge one inch. This will also serve as the point of reference for using the triangle ruler.

How to Decorate a Formal Dining Room

A formal dining room is a place to entertain guests & throw dinner parties. Unfortunately, these rooms are going out of style in favor of eating at the kitchen island, or in breakfast nooks. These rooms can even focus you more on having sit down family dinners & teaching your kids table manners. If you have a formal dining room here is how to decorate it so you will actually use it. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Consider parsons chairs. These have a formal feel to them. Most slip covers are fitted to this style of chairs. This way you can bring in a nice damask fabric on your chairs when you have company over. Plus, parsons chairs aren't overly fussy so they will suit most of the other styles that you may consider for your formal dining room.

2

Use big gestures. The idea of a formal dining room may feel a little stuffy. It might even make you think of uncomfortable dinners at your grandma's house that you had as a child. A way around this is to get rid of all of the flower arrangements & statues that are often in a traditional dining room. Instead, make one or two big gestures like using a large print tonal wallpaper on one wall, instead of the floral paper that was common to such rooms. This way your room will still have a modern edge while being elegant.

3

Formal dining rooms often use dark colors such as a burgundy or eggplant. The more modern version of this is chocolate brown or even black if you are feeling especially daring. The furniture is often rich cherry wood. However, it's all about finding a balance that fits your home. You don't want the room to feel closed in. Rich golds & creams can bring in an elegant feel while still being light & airy.

4

Bring back the buffet. This is often an overlooked piece when buying dining room furniture. However, you can even serve food & store china in a buffet. It's a place to bring in lamps for mood lighting. It's never too late to add one. Scour local thrift shops for a deal since these were popular decades ago.

5

Add in a personal element. This keeps a formal dining room from seeing cold. It can be as simple as picking up flatware on your next trip. This gives you an instant conversation starter when someone compliments you on it. Bring in original artwork in the form of black & white pictures from your photo collection. Try cropping these shots. You can either blow them up, or frame them with an oversized mat to transform your family photos into works of art.

6

Make it work to your advantage. Since more casual dining is in, you have the upper hand if you want a formal dining room. You might be able to find dining sets or even crystal chandeliers that other people are throwing out or giving away for practically free because they favor a more modern approach.

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Don't forget the ceiling. Many formal dining rooms go all out. You might consider adding faux ceiling beams. Some designers even painstakingly brush gold or silver leaf squares in the middle of a tray ceiling for a decorative element.

The Best Drafting Table

Finding a drafting table that suits your needs, whether you're an artist, architect, or hobbyist, depends to a large extent on personal preference. Narrowing down your choices depending on these preferences requires that you consider all the possibilities and what you have enjoyed and resented about different drafting tables you have used in the past. Combine all these expectations when looking for the best drafting table for your home or office. Does this Spark an idea?

Size Preferences

The size of the best drafting table for your needs depends largely on what size paper or medium of choice you use most often. Choose a drafting table with an area larger than the largest paper size you use for the greatest ease of use and comfort. Keep in mind that larger drafting tables are also better suited to long-term installations in a room that has sufficient area to accommodate the table as well as seating for the person at work.

Portability

Do you seek a drafting table that can be collapsed and taken with you from place to place, or are you looking for a drafting table to keep in your home or office for many years? The former are generally more lightweight and convenient for people on the go, but they are also less sturdy and durable than tables designed for long-term use. Reputable collapsible drafting tables include the Alvin Onyx, the Martin Berkeley and the Alvin Professional; their more permanent equivalents include the Alvin Design Master and Workmaster tables, the SMI Oak and the Mayline Ranger.

Quality of Construction

Drafting tables that are made of solid wood are of better quality than tables made of particleboard, plywood or composite materials. They are also more expensive, but will last much longer and are less susceptible to damage. Keep in mind that solid, and especially untreated, wood is sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature, so make sure your workspace is climate controlled for the least damage to your drafting table.

Height

There are two height possibilities when looking for a drafting table: desk height and drafting height. Finding the best drafting table according to height is a matter of preference. Desk height is 30 inches from the floor, whereas drafting height is 36 inches. Drafting height is most common among drafting tables. This height allows the user to sit on an elevated swivel chair and rest her feet on a rest, which allows for greater ease of movement.

How to Make an Expandable Table

There are all kinds of expanding tables with various pull-apart, flip-up and leaf designs, from round to square and everything in between. Building your own expanding table can be as complex a process as you want and need it to be. This expanding table can be built using a minimum of tools, and it provides a good return on your investment of time. It can be built with any type of wood, but is best made with a hardwood for durability and stability. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Cut four matching leg pieces from your hard wood, and style them using a router any way you like.

2

Cut four 1 foot wide base boards that are three quarters the width and length of the table top you are building, and attach all four legs at the appropriate angles to these base boards. What you have will look like a standing table with a hole in the middle.

3

Cut your table top to the total width you want the table to be.

4

Center it on the table legs and base assembly, then carefully measure each side to assure that the base and legs are directly in the center of the large table top.

5

Mark off 1/8 of the length and width of the table top on each side, and cut this section off using a table saw. Do the longer sections first, then the shorter sections, so as not to cut off any corner pieces.

6

Secure the table top to the legs and base, careful to measure accurately once again.

7

Reattach the smaller 1/8 size pieces to the table top, using strong hinges under the table top. You can now move these 1/8 size pieces up and down on the hinge.

8

Attach small wooden latches underneath the table using one screw just behind the cut. Swivel these latches (which are simply wood rods) around to secure the table in the upright position, or allow the leaves to be lowered.

DIY Wood Dining Table Plans

Review different styles of wooden dining room tables, such as contemporary or traditional, in magazines and on the Internet to get an idea of what kind of dining table you would like to design. Almost anyone can design a table with a paper and pen. However, ideally you should have some woodworking experience if you also plan to build the table. Choose a table style design with coordinating chairs that fit in with the overall decor theme in your dining room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Decide on the size of the wooden dining room table you wish to design. A table that only seats four would be sufficient for a young couple, for example, but if you have a large family or you host Thanksgiving or dinner parties in your home, opt for a table that will seat at least six to 10 people. Once you decide on a size, measure your dining room to ensure that the table and accompanying chairs will fit comfortably in that room.

2

Choose a shape for you dining table. Options include circular, rectangle, octagon, square and oval. Consider whether you would prefer a rustic picnic table or elegant table with a nice finish. Design your table with one solid top or to allow for an extension with a leaf. You could design it with two drop leaves on each end or one leaf for the middle.

3

Decide on what kind of table legs will best suit your table top design and the rest of your dining room decor. If you are going for a modern or contemporary look, for example, opt for sleek, tapered wood legs. Alternatively, if you prefer a traditional chunkier table top, choose thicker table legs. Another option is ornately carved wood legs. Unless you're planning to alter the look of the entire dining room to accommodate a table with a different style, you will need to design a table, it's legs and chairs to match the current overall style of the room.

How Do I Fix Partition Table XP?

The partition table on a Windows XP computer directs the operating system to the stored files on your system. If the partition table corrupts from a virus or bad hard drive sector, your computer cannot boot. Windows XP has a recovery console that lets you type recovery options in a command prompt. You can use the "fixboot" option to fix the partition table.

Instructions

1

Insert the Windows XP installation CD into your computer's drive. Reboot the computer. When the prompt detects the CD, press "Enter" to boot from the CD.

2

Press the "R" key on the first window to choose the "Recovery Console" option. Select "Windows XP" from the list of operating systems and press "Enter."

3

Type the administrator password in the command prompt. This password is required to use the recovery console in Windows XP. After you type the administrator password, a command prompt is shown.

4

Type the following syntax into the command prompt:

fixboot drive:

Replace "drive" with your drive letter. This is typically the "C" drive.

5

Remove the disc from your drive and reboot your computer to boot into Windows XP.

Tools Used for Drafting

Drafting is the process of drawing a blueprint or plan of a house or object. For many generations and still today, many drafters use the traditional paper and pencil method. Over the past several decades, computerized drafting software has become more popular, allowing drawings to be printed rather than drawn. Whether drafting by hand or by computer, the draftsperson requires a host of tools to complete their work.

Drafting Table

The drafting table is the main work area for a draftsperson. Drafting tables typically slant to allow for easier drawing. Tables can be simplistic, with simple a drawing area, or more mechanically complex with adjustable rulers. Mechanical tables use a series of joints or a sliding ruler to ensure that lines are parallel. A tray at the lower edge of the table holds other tools such as pencils or scales. More advanced tables also come equipped with lighting elements.

Drawing Tools

The main tool of the paper draftsperson is the pencil. Mechanical pencils that accept sticks of lead are commonly used by drafters. The lead comes in several different sizes and densities, providing different lines based on pressure. Softer leads create a thicker darker line, while harder leads require more pressure to produce the same line. Additional drawing tools include standard compasses and protractors, templates for shapes and triangular templates for creating angled lines.

Scales

Engineering and architectural scales are triangular measurement tools used by drafters to draw in a specific scale. Whether drawing architectural plans or mechanical blueprints, drawings are often in a different scale. For example, a house plan appears much smaller on paper, while a drawing of a screen is drawn larger than actual size to show additional detail. By matching the drawing scale to the value of the measurement scale, lines can be drawn without the need for additional calculations.

Drafting Software

Drafting software such as AutoCAD provides drafters with the ability to create blueprints and plans using a completely digital format. The software provides an array of tools including standard lines, shapes and common symbols of many types of drafting. Architectural plans can use a built-in library of common features like bathtubs and doors. Mechanical plans can include automatically generated parts lists and tolerance notes. Dimension notes resizing according to the changes on the drawing.

How to Draw a Drafting Table

A drafting table is a table designed for artists and architects. Drafting tables have an angled drawing surface which tilts the items on the workspace toward the person seated at the table, much in the way that an easel is designed to hold a canvas angled toward a painter.

Instructions

1

Draw a horizontal line an inch long.

2

Draw a second horizontal line an inch long. This line will be half an inch to the right and half an inch below the line you drew in step 1.

3

Connect the left point of the first line to the left point of the second line by drawing a straight line between them. Connect the right point of the first line to the right point of the second line by drawing a straight line between them. You have just drawn a parallelogram. This is the top of the drafting table.

4

Draw a vertical line 3/4 inch long, the top of which connects to the bottom right point of the parallelogram. This is the front right leg of the table.

5

Draw a vertical line 3/4 inch long, the top of which connects to the bottom left point of the parallelogram. This is the front left leg of the table.

6

Draw another vertical line 1 inch long, the top of which connects to the top left point of the parallelogram. This is the back left leg of the table.

7

Draw a final 1/2-inch-long vertical line protruding from the bottom of the table between the front two legs. Position this line in such a way that if you extended the line another half an inch on the top, it would connect with the top right point of the parallelogram. This is the back right leg of the table.

How to Accessorize a Coffee Table

Accessorizing a coffee table can give a room a creative focal point that reflects your personality. Creating the perfect tablescape is like creating a still life for a painting. While an individual object on a coffee table may not work well on its own, it could work well when combined with other items. Mix and match items with different textures. For example, use straight objects with curved ones, or pair shiny items with their duller-textured counterparts for an interesting look. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Center your favorite picture book on the coffee table. You don't have to purchase an "official" big, heavy coffee table book; simply display any book that contains interesting visual elements in the middle of the table, opened up to your favorite page. If you do not have a book with pictures in it, use a photo album or scrapbook.

2

Dress up your coffee table with flowers. Flower arrangements can add a soft, romantic or whimsical feel to a room. Use fresh flowers in a vase, or quality silk flowers for a long-lasting accessory. Some craft stores have staff members who specialize in making silk flower arrangements; bring in a picture of a floral arrangement you like and purchase the silk flower counterparts. You do not have to use a traditional vase for silk flowers; you can use a fancy box or containers made of ceramic or metal. When placing a floral arrangement on your coffee table, keep the arrangement's height and the size of the table in mind. The arrangement should not be so high that you cannot see your TV, fireplace or guests' faces.

3

A fancy wooden tray that matches your dcor is a simple accessory that you can use to adorn your coffee table. If you have a small coffee table, place one tray in the middle of it. Use two trays on a large coffee table to create a sense of balance. Place your favorite items in the tray, such as candles of various heights, a tea set, souvenirs you recently picked up, a book of crossword puzzles and a fancy pen, retro-style toys or incense holders. You can easily remove the tray and its contents when you want to use the space on the coffee table.

How to Decorate Entryway Walls

The entryway is the first thing guests see when they come to your home. Your visitors may judge your home in a matter of seconds. It sets the tone for the rest of your house. The entryway is often an overlooked area because it's not an actual room. Decorating an entryway wall can make your house feel finished and welcoming. An entryway wall is a place to make a stunning first impression. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Add a faux wall. Your entryway might open up right to your living room. Create a separation of space. You can easily add a faux wall by using a heavy screen. Place an open bookshelf next to the door. This allows you to display items on your new entryway wall. Place accessories such as vases on the shelves or stack books so it's attractive from both rooms.

2

Coordinate the paint color with the rest of the house. This helps your entryway flow into the next room. You also won't have to worry about picking a separate paint color. You can also experiment with a deeper, richer color in the space. If you want a different color, frame the doorway and ceiling to the next room with trim to separate the spaces. This tells you where to stop one paint color and where to begin the next.

3

Set the tone. The entryway of your home is a place to tell people what you are about. You can showcase a large piece of modern art for a contemporary style. Make your own collage with family pictures. Use a photo program to turn all of the pictures the same tone like sepia or black and white. Place the pictures in coordinating frames so the space doesn't seem too busy. You can even buy the same frame to use on all of your pictures. Make sure to pick up a few extra frames so you can add new pictures to your collage over time.

4

Hang a mirror. You'll probably look at your entryway wall every time you leave the house. Hang a mirror at your height so you can check your hair on the way out the door. Mirrors can help small spaces seem bigger, which is perfect for an entryway.

5

Make your entry wall usable. You can decorate entryway walls with coat hooks. This will help you store coats if you don't have a coat closet. Push a low bookshelf onto your entry wall to hold shoes. Place baskets on the bookshelves to hide away any unsightly items.

6

Draw the eye up. Many entryways have high ceilings. Showcase this with your entryway wall. Use a darker tone of paint on the furthest wall. It will accentuate the high ceiling. This way the eye will float up to see a dramatic chandelier.

7

Place a console table in your entryway. These tables are designed to take up less space than traditional tables so it will fit in your entry. Put baskets on the table so you have a tidy place to put your mail, keys and cell phone.

Definition of a Credenza

What is a credenza and what is it used for? Today's definition of a credenza has been expanded to fit many different pieces of furniture, from the sofa table to the media console. Style and versatility of function are what define this unique piece of furniture. Does this Spark an idea?

History of the Credenza

To lend credence to something is to assist in verification of the truth. The credenza, a long, flat topped storage unit that has been in existence since the 19th century, was used for such a purpose. Prior to eating a meal, a king, lord or other member of nobility would have a taster eat the food. The purpose of the taster was to determine whether the food was poisoned, or to verify the authenticity of the food, which had been placed on top of the credenza. We have adopted the Italian version of the word credence, credenza, to describe this piece of furniture that once held food for the taster.

Style

The credenza comes in a number of styles, from the extremely ornate to plain and practical. As expected, styles have changed throughout history. Early credenzas owned by the wealthy boast intricate woodwork, with elaborate wood inlay designs. As the modern furniture period progressed in the 20th century, the style produced was simple, with straight lines and no intricacies. Credenzas can have drawers, cabinets or both and are made from a variety of wood, depending on the style and manufacturer. Some of the modern pieces are made from plastics.

Function

The best attribute of the credenza is its versatility, which makes this an enduring piece of furniture. Whether used in a dining room, office or family room it has numerous functions and can be adapted to suit your needs. In a dining room the storage space would be useful for serving platters, dishes or even liquor. For a family room, the credenza can function as a media console. There are many uses for this extraordinary piece of furniture.

Potential Uses for Your Credenza

Sideboard -- The credenza can be used in the dining room for storing dishes, glasses or liquor.

Buffet -- Food can be placed upon the credenza during meal times to leave more space on the dining table.

Desk -- A credenza is often used as a desk within an office. This type of credenza varies slightly in style in that there is leg space allowing one to sit at the piece and work.

Hutch or Display Cabinet -- A simple use for this piece of furniture, this allows storage space for items that need to be out of sight while leaving the top for display pieces. In this case, the credenza also works as a visual design element within the room.

Office supply storage -- Ideal for paper, ink and office supply storage, the credenza can also hold a printer, fax machine or modem on the top.

Bookcase -- Some credenzas may come with open shelving, but for the most part your books will be tucked away in the cabinet section. You can also display your better known volumes with stylish bookends on the top.

Media console -- Again, depending on the design of the room and the overall look you are hoping to achieve, your credenza can hold your television, stereo and various media equipment. The cabinets and drawers are well suited to store CDs and DVDs.

By Any Other Name

When shopping in a furniture store the following names can describe a credenza:

Sideboard
Sofa table
TV console
Media console
Chest
Buffet

A credenza by any other name is still a credenza: a versatile, extremely useful piece of furniture that can configure to any room. According to Barbara Scott of Once In A Blue Moon Furniture, "People rarely ask for a credenza even though that's what they want. They just come in here with measurements and tell me they need something to hold their television or whatever." So if you are looking for that just right piece of furniture that combines storage with display space, the credenza just might suit your needs.

How to Clean Dining Room Chairs

Spilled food and everyday use eventually leads to soiled dining room chairs. Wiping down your dining room chairs a few times a week prevents dust and debris from building up on the chairs. Regularly cleaning with the proper cleaning products keeps chairs looking their best. Create your own vinegar-based cleaner to safely remove stains from your dining room chairs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Pour 4 cups of distilled white vinegar into a clean spray bottle.

2

Add 1/4 cup of bleach-free antibacterial liquid dish soap and 1/4 cup lemon juice to the spray bottle.

3

Shake the spray bottle for a few seconds to mix the ingredients.

4

Spray the clean, lint-free cloth until the cloth is moist. Or, pour the cleaner on the cloth if you prefer.

5

Wipe down the entire dining room chair. Do not forget to wipe down the legs of the chair.

6

Examine the dining room chair and wipe any areas that are still dirty.

7

Wipe the dining room chair with a dry, clean, lint-free cloth to remove any excess cleaner.

Equipment for Drafting

Drafting as a profession has been around since ancient times. Today, drafters prepare technical drawings used by a variety of industries, from product manufacturing to construction to aerospace. Their exacting work provides a detailed visual of the finished product or project, complete with mechanical specifications, materials and dimensions. Drafters require a specialized education and technical training as well as a variety of specific pieces of equipment to properly perform their job.

Drafting Board

The drafting board consists of a level, smooth board on which large sheets of paper attach to create technical and mechanical illustrations. A drafting board is a portable version of the larger, more permanent drafting table. Many drafting boards feature an attached parallel straight edge and adjustable legs to provide for an angled drawing surface.

T-square

The T-square, considered an indispensable tool for drafters, provides a true edge for drawing horizontal lines. The name of this piece of drafting equipment derives from its shape. The T-square has a long, straight "blade" attached at a right angle to a short strip called the "head." The head is conveniently secured below the blade to fit securely against the edge a drawing board or drafting table. T-squares range in size from 15 inches to 72 inches in length.

Straight Edge

The straight edge or parallel straight edge serves the same purpose as the T-square. It consists of a straight blade secured to the outside edges of the drafting board or table. The parallel blade moves smoothly from the top to bottom of the board along a series of cables and pulleys. The straight edge easily locks in place, making it stable for drawing on an angled work surface.

Parallel Ruler

The parallel ruler allows drafters to draw precise parallel lines. This drawing aid features two straight edges joined on either end by pivoting arms, allowing the parallel lines to be drawn at various distances from each other. These rulers began as wooden and metal navigational aids to plot the course of ships. Modern versions used for drafting feature clear plastic straight edges and aluminum arms.

Drafting Machine

Drafting machines take the place of a number of common drafting tools. This single piece of equipment attaches directly to the drafting table, eliminating the need for a separate T square, parallel rule, straight edge, triangle and protractor. The all-in-one convenience of the drafting machine increases the drafter's overall accuracy and cuts drafting time.

Computer Aided Drafting and Design

Most drafters now utilize Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) to create technical drawings. With the aid of CADD systems, drafters can permanently store renderings for viewing and printing. CADD gives drafters the ability to easily prepare multiple design alternatives for a project. While CADD replaces manual drawings, modern drafters must still be trained in conventional drafting methods.

Country Dining Room Colors

A country dining room ideally brings about a feeling of family, warmth and good cheer. The colors used in a country dining room influence the ambiance of the room. Color also must complement furnishings and work well with food presentation. Warm colors such as red and yellow are choices that create energy and vibrancy, while a cool sage green promotes relaxation and serenity. Does this Spark an idea?

Red

Red is gorgeous and appropriate in a country dining room.

Use red in a country dining room for a sense of energy. Pair red with white and black for a classic color combination. Paint walls an earthy tomato red and trim with white woodwork. Add an off-white dining table with ladder back chairs and red apple stencils. Add black accents such as curtains, rugs and table linens.

Painted red country-style furniture also works in a country dining room. Distress the paint slightly with a quick sanding with fine sandpaper. Pair red furniture with clean white walls and teal accents. Choose soft teal furnishings such as placemats and napkins for striking color. Add a bouquet of white daisies to the center of the dining table for a touch of greenery.

Yellow

Yellow works well in country decor.

Yellow is a classic choice for country dining decor. Yellow brings in the sun and the outdoors. Choose a pale yellow for the most versatile effect. Paint walls a soft yellow by using a faux finish such as sponge painting or rag rolling. This will bring in some texture and depth. Bring in bright greens with potted plants, cafe curtains with matching valances and green painted stoneware.

Navy is commonly paired with yellow and will work well with bright green accents. Navy-painted country-style furniture provides a dramatic effect. A navy-colored paint that has been treated with a crackle effect will work well on a dining table and chairs. Make sure to seal with a polyurethane sealer.

Sage Green

Sage green is a traditional country decor color.

Sage green evokes a calm, soothing atmosphere in the country dining room. Pair sage green with a creamy beige and touches of peach for a traditional color mix. Add sage green textured wallpaper to the walls, paint the wood trim a warm, creamy beige. Opt for an off-white dining table and chairs with a darker wood trim. Mix in accents of peach color for your napkins, ceramic pitchers and floral arrangements. An oval rug with all of these colors ties it together, placed under the dining table.

Building an Adjustable Drafting Table

Adjustable Drafting Table Plans

Adjustable drafting tables can be adjusted in two ways--in overall height or the tilt of the table top. In some models the table top is set at sitting height. In these models the the top is a separate piece that can be inclined or tilted as needed. The top is attached with a piano hinge along the edge facing the user. The back edge, the edge furthest from the user, is lifted up or down at desired angles and held in place with a prop stick or other hardware. Height-adjustable tables can be built from a plan or created by using pre-made parts.

Drafting Table Components

The base or legs of the table are often called the frame. These can be stationary, pneumatic or manually adjustable. The need for a sturdy four-point frame is important. This does not necessarily mean four separate legs but does mean four points of contact with the floor or a length of contact and a stabilization bar connecting the two sides together. The ability to adjust the table top can cause the table to become unstable due to a large amount of weight being tilted in one direction--the more stable the floor contact is the more solid the drafting table.

Smooth Table Surface

Table tops can be solid wood, laminated wood, or melamine. Solid wood or laminated wood should have a table cover or vinyl cover applied across the top. Companies that make this type of cover include Borco and Alvin who makes the product called Vyco. The cover allows for a smooth drawing surface. Exposed wood can cause paper to be punctured or torn.

Drafting Table Legs

If purchasing legs to add a top to, consider adjustable height table legs, telescopic table legs, or extendable legs. If you want a lot of adjustment available in the leg, make sure the description of the leg reveals how much height it gives. Some legs are called adjustable if they allow for leveling. Leveling will only give an inch or so adjustment which is not enough to satisfy most drafting table users. Metalkraft makes an adjustable height, spring lock leg that resembles a card table style leg. This leg will adjust a drafting table height at one inch increments with a total of twenty to thirty inches adjustment on some models.

Adjustable Table Hardware

Adjusting the table top is achieved through hardware. The choice of hardware will depend upon the type of leg chosen. Single four leg bases may require a two tier top---one to attach the legs to and a separate one that lifts at an angle and requires a piano hinge along one side. Hand cut adjustable wood drafting tables use a two part leg---the base and an extension that fits against the base and slides up and down allowing for height adjustments. The top attaches with a piece of hardware that allows the top to swing down and up, locking into place by being tightened.

Special Drafting Tables

Some drafting table designs are two tier table tops that include a low depth box for the base and a top that adjusts as a cover or a tilted drafting top. These are great for storing drawings or drafting tools inside and out of the way. The box should be built first with a hinged top added before setting and attaching it to the base.

How to Make a Portable Drafting Table Top

Drafting tables are large and heavy and difficult to move. Sometimes the draftsman needs to work in various places and on a temporary basis. It is very difficult to carry a drafting table to a field or remote location. You can build a portable drafting table top that is easily moved and set up. You can build such a table top even if you have little or no experience in less than six hours. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Cut a 4 by 8 foot piece of cabinet-grade plywood with a circular saw. Place the plywood on two sawhorses horizontally. Measure up from the bottom 32 inches on each end and place a mark.

2

Snap a chalk line along the plywood to connect the two marks. Blow the excess chalk off of the plywood and place blue masking tape along the chalk line. This will prevent splintering of the plywood.

3

Snap the chalk line once again on the premarked measurements, placing the line on top of the masking tape.

4

Cut the plywood along the chalk line with a circular saw fitted with a blade for plywood. Put on a dust mask and safety goggles prior to cutting. Keep the two plywood pieces aligned after the cut. Do not flip or turn either piece.

5

Place heavy duty hinges along the plywood, connecting the two cut pieces. Place four hinges along the plywood, spacing them 24 inches apart. Inset the two end hinges by 4 inches. The table will now collapse and fold into a smaller, manageable section. The side with the hinges is now the bottom of the drafting table.

6

Attach two 2-by-4 boards the length of the table at the top (16-inch section) with 3-inch wood screws. This lumber will serve to lift the table slightly. Align the first 2-by-4 with the top edge of the table. Offset the second 2-by-4 by allowing it to hang over the previous piece by 2 inches, toward the bottom of the table.

7

Cut two 2-by-4 boards to extend from the bottom of the table, across the hinged section and into the slotted 2-by-4 boards on the top. The 2-by-4 at the top that is overhung will serve as a slot for the side 2-by-4 boards to slide into. These two 2-by-4 boards will hold the table straight, keeping the hinges from collapsing. Remove them when collapsing the table.

8

Flip the table over to the top side. Attach a 2-by-4 along the bottom, aligning it with the bottom edge. Use 1 1/2-inch wood screws to secure the lumber. This 2-by-4 will serve to hold paper, pencils and rulers on the table. Fold the table when transporting and use it in various locations where a permanent table is not practical.

How to Build a Center Console for a Car

Building a complete center console for a car involves several steps and some skill working with wood and fabric materials. Examine and try out as many different console designs as you can to help you determine the type of console you want to build. Once you have an idea of the kind you want, you can construct your custom console from wood, which you can cut and assemble into the size and shape you desire. Building a center console takes at least four hours, depending on the complexity of your design.

Instructions

1

Measure the space in the car where the center console will be. Use cardboard to assemble a mock-up of the console size and shape you want. Use scissors to cut the cardboard to the exact shape and use tape to construct the cardboard console. Once it is exactly right, take the pieces apart and use them as templates.

2

Place the cardboard templates flat against the MDF sheet and use a pencil to trace the shapes. Cut the shapes out carefully using a jigsaw. Cut out any spaces for cup holders or stereo equipment using the jigsaw.

3

Assemble all of the MDF pieces and join them together using a hammer and finishing nails. Be sure to hammer the nails in completely so no heads are above the surface of the wood. Apply adhesive caulk along the seams to fill the small gaps. Let the caulk dry for an hour.

4

Spray the console surface and the inside surface of the foam with spray adhesive. Let the adhesive dry for five minutes, or until it is tacky. Place the foam on the console and press it to the sides. Cut it to fit each section properly. You can reposition it if necessary until the adhesive has dried.

5

Cover the foam surface and the inside surface of the fabric material with spray adhesive. Keep the fabric in one piece and place it over the console, cutting out holes for cup holders or other openings. Allow extra fabric so you can tuck at least an inch or two of the edge under the bottom of the console. Smooth the fabric with your hands. You can install the console immediately.

How to Build a Folding Drafting Table

Drafting tables are used to create drawings of blueprints and to review large documents. Drafting tables are valuable tools for engineers and artists, but can often consume valuable space. A folding drafting table allows the user the space they need when working with drawings, but can then be stored out of the way while it isn't in use. Students who need drafting tables for school work can benefit from a folding drafting table since it won't take up valuable floor space. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Use a circular saw to cut two pieces of one-by-four to 42 inches and two pieces to 29 inches. Position the shorter pieces so they are flush against the side of the longer pieces and use wood screws to secure them together. This is the frame for the drafting table top. The top will measure 42 inches by 31 inches.

2

Cut the top of the drafting table out of 1/2-inch plywood. The plywood should measure 42 inches by 31 inches.

3

Position the cut plywood on top of the drafting table frame and secure it into place with wood screws through the top of the plywood and into the one-by-four frame. Use sandpaper to smooth down any rough edges and wipe the dust off with a rag.

4

Spread laminate adhesive across the top of the 1/2-inch plywood and position a piece of counter top laminate into place. Press down on the laminate firmly on the adhesive until it begins to set up. Use a utility knife to cut off any excess laminate and use sandpaper to smooth the edge of the laminate as necessary. Allow the adhesive to dry over night.

5

Measure four feet from the floor and use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall and mark them with a pencil. Use a level to position a piece of two-by-four at the marked location and secure the two-by-four into place with wood screws inserted diagonally through the two-by-four and into the studs in the wall.

6

Secure the hinges to the mounted two-by-four so that they are positioned four inches in from either side of the drafting table.

7

Use 1/4-inch PVC pipe to create the folding legs. Cut the back legs to 48 inches long and the front legs to 40 inches.

8

Use a drill to drill a hole through the PVC hinges and secure two to the stud on each side of the desk. These hinges will support the back leg of the desk while it is in use.

9

Slide two PVC T-joints down the front and back leg pieces and connect the back and front legs together with two pieces of PVC pipe that is 31 inches long. Repeat this process for the other side of the desk. Snap the back legs into the secured PVC hinges and fold the legs out of the way, under the mounted two-by-four.

10

Attach the top of the desk to the hinges on the two-by-four support mounted to the wall. Have an assistant hold the desk up high enough so that the hinges can be positioned on the back of the desk and secured with screws.

11

Unfold the PVC legs and rest the top of the desk on top of the front legs. The desk will have an eight-inch drop from the rear to the front for easier use.

Occasional Tables for Cabins

Living without occasional tables would mean setting your coffee cups, books, glasses and lamps on the floor. Fortunately, occasional tables are common furniture pieces found in almost every traditional home, vacation cabin or modern condo. Cabin decor often encompasses occasional tables incorporating wildlife themes, natural resource themes and custom design. A checkerboard game table, a snowshoe coffee table and a Native American drum table are well suited for cabin decor. Does this Spark an idea?

Types

Occasional tables accommodating cabin environments are available in a variety of types that are suited for assorted tasks. Coffee tables set in front of a sofa provide a convenient place to set your coffee cup or newspaper. End tables hold lamps, providing task lighting for reading or soft mood lighting. Entryway console tables supply a handy area to deposit keys, wallets, papers and books upon entering your cabin. Flip-top game tables provide a flat, multipurpose surface on one side and a printed game surface for playing checkers or backgammon on the reverse side.

Construction Materials

Frequently constructed of natural elements, occasional tables used in cabins reflect the outdoors. Aspen logs, pine planks and natural hickory wood are often used in creating occasional tables for cabins. Tabletops crafted from leather, copper, glass or slate incorporate resources found in or associated with nature. Metal embellishments and forged iron table legs add an additional texture to the occasional cabin table. Sleigh coffee tables, antler-leg end tables, wagon-wheel console tables and grizzly bear-sculpted coffee tables represent specialty occasional tables designed exclusively for cabin decor.

Styles

Occasional tables with a rustic style are often selected to accommodate cabin decor. Distressed and roughly finished wood, hammered and twisted metal, and a theme integrating wildlife or fishing are common in the rustic style. Western-style occasional tables for cabins may incorporate leather tabletops, metal star embellishments and recycled barn woods. Southwestern and Native American-style cabin tables may incorporate authentic ceremonial drums, tabletop sand paintings and colorful tile patterns.

Versatility

A few occasional tables that can be used for a variety of functions, such as nesting tables, are space-saving and easily mobile. Nesting tables are commonly composed of a set of three stacking tables that compactly store underneath each other when not in use. They provide three mobile tables that provide additional places to set drinks and snacks for guests, game and coloring surfaces for children, or extra work space for favorite hobbies.

How to Build Behind the Couch Tables

A couch table adds a convenience and elegance to your living room. You can place the table between the back of a couch and the wall or set it against the back of a couch that is away from the wall. The table gives you extra surface area for another lamp or for an arrangement of candles or a small house plant. A couch table is a relatively simple project that you can complete in an afternoon. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Cut the 1-by-12 board to 38 inches long. Cut the 4-by-4 post into four 28-inch lengths. Cut the 1-by-4 board into four 2 1/4-inch lengths, two 10 1/2-inch lengths, two 33-inch lengths and two 6-inch lengths.

2

Place a 2 1/4-inch 1-by-4 board against a top corner on one of the 4-by-4 posts. Position the 2 1/4-inch board on the side of the post that will face the leg opposite it. Fasten the board to the post using two screws. Repeat with the remaining three 2 1/4-inch boards and 4-by-4 posts.

3

Lay two 4-by-4 posts next to each other on a flat surface and place a 10 1/2-inch 1-by-4 board across the top of them, against the 2 1/4-inch board. Position the 10 1/2-inch piece on the side of the posts that will be underneath and inside the table. Fasten the 10 1/2-inch board to the posts using two screws on each side. Repeat with the other two posts and the other 10 1/2-inch board.

4

Push a 6-inch length of the 1-by-4 between the joined legs, against the 2 1/4-inch boards. Screw in place using one screw on each side. Repeat with the other 6-inch length on the other set of legs.

5

Position the end of a 33-inch 1-by-4 board against the edge of a 10 1/2-inch board on the legs and screw into place. Place the other set of legs on the other end of the 33-inch board and screw into place. Use two screws on each side. Repeat, attaching the other 33-inch board to the other side of the legs.

6

Lay the 1-by-12 board flat on the ground. Center the legs on top of it. Position the portion with the 10 1/2- and 33-inch boards on it against the board. Place two "L" brackets against the underside of the board and against one of the 10 1/2-inch boards. Screw into place using 3/4-inch screws. Place two "L" brackets on the other side of the table against the other 10 1/2-inch board and screw into place. Place two "L" brackets in the middle of the table against the 33-inch boards and attach to the tabletop and the 33-inch boards.

7

Turn the table right side up and sand to smooth any rough edges. Brush off any sawdust.

8

Paint or stain the table as you wish. Let dry overnight, then apply another coat.