How to Convert Imperial Fractions to Metric

Imperial units are measurements used in the United States, as opposed to the metric system used in all other countries except Burma and Liberia. The metric system is a system of weights and measurements based on the decimal system where units are expressed in groups of ten. Imperial units include the yard (3 feet, or 0.9144 meters) the foot (12 inches, or 304.8 millimeters), the ounce (116 pounds, or 28.349523125 grams), and the ton (2240 pounds, or 1,016.0469088 kilograms). Converting Imperial fractions into metric amounts can be done manually or with online calculators.

Instructions

1

Measure the amount, weight or length of the item in the Imperial system. Convert the fraction of the measurement to a decimal place. To do this, divide the top number of the fraction by the bottom number. If your Imperial measurement is 6 7/8 inches, divide the 7 by 8 to get .875. The number is then 6.875.

2

Consult a metric conversion chart for the exact conversion formula you need. The formula is different for weights, lengths and fluid amounts. To continue the example above, if you have 6.875 ounces of liquid, you would multiply that amount by 28.413 ml to get total liters; in this case, 0.20 liters. If you have 6.875 inches, you would multiply that by 2.54 centimeters to get the total length in centimeters: 17.46 cm.

3

Double-check your calculations or have them done automatically for you online at one of these conversion websites: http://www.hoptechno.com/nightcrew/sante7000/convert.cfm; http://convert.french-property.co.uk/; http://www.onlineconversion.com/.

How to Repair a Drafting Board With a Parallel Bar

Prior to the advent of computer aided drafting, draftspeople made technical drawings on drafting tables. The parallel bar was used in place of a T square. The parallel bar had the advantage of being held in position by a long wire running around the perimeter of the board. This setup allowed the bar to remain stationary when in use. Over time, the wire's mounts can come loose causing the bar to stop working. Follow a few simple steps to repair a drafting board with a parallel bar.

Instructions

1




Use towels to create a protected work surface.

Flip the drafting board over. Place two or three towels underneath the surface of the drafting board to protect the parallel bar. Spread the towels out so they cover an area equal to the size of the board. Lay the board on the protected surface.

2




The pulleys are located in the corners of the board.

Examine the pulley mounts. The wire used to move the parallel bar up and down is mounted on a series of pulleys, which are in turn mounted to the drafting board with screws. Over time, the screws become loose, causing the wire to become slack. Place each pulley between your thumb and index finger. Try to move the pulley from left to right. If the mounting screws are loose, the pulley will shift to one side or the other.

3




Use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the pulley screws.

Tighten the pulley's mounting screws. Most pulley mounts are held in place with a Phillips screw. Use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the mounting screws. Turn the screw clockwise to tighten it. Turn the screw until it is firmly in place.

4

Check the pulleys for dirt and debris buildup. Because the pulley is greased, dirt and debris can build up within the pulley's channel over time. Buildup forms on the pulley's outer edges, causing the wire to stick when you move the parallel bar up or down. Check each of the channels for dirt or debris.

5




Use the tip of a cotton swab to clean the channels.

Clean the pulleys. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol. Rub the tip of the swab gently into the exposed part of the pulley's channel. The wire rides along a small section of the pulley, leaving the majority of the pulley's channel exposed. When the dirt and debris loosens, remove the small chunks with a pair of tweezers.

6

Examine the parallel bar's mounting screws. Over time, the bar's mounting screws will become loose. The mounting screws hold the parallel bar's pulleys in place. If the screws are loose, the pulleys will not function properly. Use a Phillips screw driver to tighten the mounting screws.

7




Switch to a new swab for each pulley.

Remove any dirt and debris from the parallel bar's pulleys. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt and debris from the bar's pulley channels; rub the exposed channel with the swab's tip. Llift off any debris clumps with tweezers.

8

Lubricate the pulleys. Use spray lubricant to grease the pulley channels. Place the nozzle into the pulley channel, and spray it lightly. Repeat the process for each pulley.

How to Preserve Antique Wood Outdoors

Antique wood is a beautiful addition to an outdoor area, be it an urban or rural landscape. People use antique wood for both decorative and functional purposes, including furniture. Some antique furniture will last for decades, even centuries, if well preserved. Antique wood furniture left outside can easily be enjoyed for future generations by taking simple steps to preserve the wood. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Cover the Wood

1

Protect your antique wood from the elements. Bring your antique wood furniture inside during a snow or rainstorm to a storage shed. If the pieces are too big or heavy to be transported or brought inside out of the elements, invest in furniture covers that are waterproof and made to withstand all types of weather. The cover must not trap dampness.

2

Measure each piece of antique furniture for proper-sized coverings. Never use plastic because it will cause mold to grow. Use heavy-gauge covers reinforced with vinyl and flannel.

3

Make sure the furniture covering fits snugly around all parts of the antique wood furniture from top to bottom, including the furniture legs.

Keep the Wood Stained and/or Painted

4

Re-stain antique wood furniture every few years. Make any repairs to the wood with 220-grit sand paper. Rough the wood surface in its entirety with the sandpaper, enough to remove the old varnish but not the wood itself. Sand the larger pieces of outdoor antique furniture, like antique wood tables, with a sander machine.

5

Go over the flat areas, especially where there are discolorations, with the sanding machine to bring out the natural grain. Dust the surface with a large, clean paint brush. Apply a sealant, or re-stain in clear color. Use a sealant or stain containing a water-repellent. Apply the sealant or stain with a large clean paint brush.

6

Repaint the wood on antique outdoor wood painted furniture. Remove any old curled or chipped pieces of paint with paint remover and a chisel, then sand. Prime the furniture if painting over raw wood. Repaint the furniture with the outdoor furniture paint of your choice.

Clean the Wood

7

Check to see if the antique wood furniture needs cleaning. Fill a bucket with soapy water. Put on gloves. Take a large whisk brush, dip it in the bucket of soapy water and thoroughly clean the furniture with the brush.

8

Add four parts water to one part wood cleaner mix in a separate bucket. Apply the mixture with the brush, making sure to keep gloves on during this process. After cleaning with the wood cleaner, let dry for a half an hour, and then rinse with clean water.

9

Apply wood oil with a clean paint brush to the furniture to condition and seal it. Let dry before using the furniture.

How to Add Color to the Tables at a Wedding

Couples spend countless hours planning their wedding day. Everything needs to look how you want it, from the gown to the tables. The tables are part of your wedding dcor. Your guests may spend much of their time at your wedding sitting at a table, so if you want to impress them you should put thought into how you want your tables to look. Details can get lost if there is too much white, so add some color to your tables.

Instructions

1

Arrange to use colored tablecloths if your reception venue offers them. Match the cloths to the color scheme of your wedding. If only white tablecloths are available to you, add an overlay of a different color. A fabric runner in one of your wedding colors is an option as well, or you can use bunched-up cloth around your centerpieces.

2

Order dishes or napkins in an accent color. Set your tables with metallic plates or glasses made of colored glass. Set the silverware on colored napkins. Choose a color that complements or matches your color scheme for your wedding.

3

Place centerpieces on your tables. You can bring more attention to your wedding colors by including them in your centerpieces. For a purple and green wedding, for example, arrange lilacs or other purple flowers in vases. Accent the flowers with leaves or scatter green jewels on the table.

4

Tie ribbons or bows around the backs of your chairs to add more color to your tables. Chair covers can also come in colors that complement your wedding.

How to Draw Lines on a Pool Table

Drawing lines on a pool table is helpful when practicing complicated shots. Lines on the felt helps players see the angles that the balls need to follow into the pocket. Drawing lines also makes racking the pool balls easier. It is a simple visual reminder of where to place the top of the rack. Chalk is a good tool to use to draw with because it isn't permanent. Using impermanent lines provides flexibility for the player. Practice many different shots at once or focus on one difficult shot.

Instructions

Drawing the Lines

1

Determine the angles on the table you want to practice shooting. Pick various beginning points and find the spots on the table's edge where the ball strikes. These angles are found using the 30 and 90 degree rules.

2

Mark all beginning and ending points on the table with tailor's chalk. The beginning spot is the place where the cue hits the ball. The end mark is where the ball hits the edge of the table.

3

Use the chalk line to make straight lines across the pool table. A chalk line is a construction tool used to mark straight lines on flat surfaces. It consists of a solid body containing a raveled line and chalk. When the string is pulled out and snapped, it leaves a line on the surface. This tool is available for purchase at most local hardware stores. Place the chalk line at the beginning point. Pull the string out to the end point. Snap the string to create a perfectly straight line between two points. Repeat for all marks made on the table.

4

Draw a one-inch horizontal line on the table using the tailor's chalk. Place the line where the top of the racking triangle goes.

5

Vacuum up excess dust left on the table from chalk marks.

6

Redraw the lines whenever they begin to fade. If you want to remove the lines, rub a damp cloth over the chalk.

Accent Seasoning & Its Benefits

Many recipes call for "Accent Seasoning." Some people have it on their table, using it like salt. It is carried at many stores in the United States. Those who live outside the U.S., though, might have trouble finding it. Accent Seasoning is really just a brand name, so substitution should be readily available. Add this to my Recipe Box.

History

Accent seasoning is glutamate, also called "monosodium glutamate." Using glutamate in foods dates back to ancient Japan. Seaweed was used by cooks in Japan to give flavor to some types of savory foods. While no one knew what made it work, the seaweed brought a depth to the flavor. In 1908 a scientist (Professor Kikunae Ikeda of the University of Tokyo) decided to analyze the seaweed and discovered that glutamate was responsible for this flavor enhancement.

Glutamate

Professor Ikeda first isolated glutamate in the form of glutamic acid crystals. The substance is an amino acid and one of the key building blocks in protein. In order to be used as a seasoning, Professor Ikeda sought to create a water soluble substance that would resist humidity. His answer was to create a substance called "monosodium glutamate." It has a similar structure to crystallized sugar and salt, but the flavor essence of the glutamic acid.

Uses

Monosodium glutamate (and Accent Seasoning, since it is Monosodium glutamate) have been used in Asian cooking for a very long time (even before it was isolated into a seasoning). According to B & G Foods, it has also been "a 'secret ingredient' of many chefs for years." It can be used on nearly any type of meat, in soups and broths, on potatoes or rice and in sauces. It enriches the flavor palate.

Lower Sodium

As any chemistry student can probably discern, monosodium glutamate (the only ingredient in Accent Seasoning) is a salt. That means it contains sodium. Many people are on low sodium diets. Accent Seasoning might be a good alternative to salt for those individuals. The flavor is not the same as salt, but it can enrich foods in a similar way. It also contains 60 percent less sodium than salt.

Controversy

Many restaurants and products contain a statement like "contains no MSG." The statement has been added to products because some people have reported problems ranging from headaches to nausea, asthma attacks and heart palpitations. The Mayo Clinic, however, reports that no study has ever found a link between MSG (monosodium glutamate) and any of those symptoms. So, the current evidence doesn't support any long term or consistent health problems caused by Accent Seasoning.

How to Add Shading to Microsoft Word Tables

You can add dimension and ease of use to tables by adding shading (gray or color) to individual columns, rows, cells or the entire table. These instructions are for Microsoft Word 97 or 98.

Instructions

1

Select the part of the table you want to shade: column, row, cell or entire table.

2

Go to the Format menu and select Borders and Shading. The Borders and Shading window will open.

3

Select the Shading tab at the top of the window.

4

Select the fill color you want to use to shade this part of the table. Your selection is reflected in the Preview box on the right side of the window.

5

In the Patterns section, select the percentage you want of the color you selected (for example, 10 percent gray).

6

Click OK.

DIY Fire Pit Table

Fire pits have been used as an outdoor gathering spot for many years. Great for intimate stargazing or making s'mores for the family, the fire pit is becoming a staple in modern backyards. Todays fire pits range from simple bowl structures to elaborate in-ground contraptions and everything in between. A popular choice for backyard fires is the fire pit table. Store-bought models can be pricey, and by investing some of your time, you can construct your own fire pit table for your yard. Does this Spark an idea?

Table

The first step in building your own fire pit table is constructing the table itself. When building your table, choose a wood that repels insects and resists water. Pressure-treated wood is common for backyard tables, as is cedar and redwood. Stick with a simple table design rather than an elaborate plan, to ensure the fire pit bowl is the focal point of the table.

Pit Bowl

When choosing your fire pit bowl, keep in mind the size of the table you will be constructing. You dont want the bowl to be so large that it takes up the entire circumference of the table. If the bowl is too small, however, it will not only get lost in the table design, but it will leave you and your guests pulling the chairs closer and leaning over the table to feel the effects of the fire. If the fire pit table will be mainly used by adults, this may not be a problem, but if children will gather around to roast marshmallows, a table with a small pit bowl can become an issue.

Cement

Before fastening your fire pit bowl to the fire pit table, place the proper amount of cement on the center of the table. If too much cement is applied, it will squish out around the bottom of the pit bowl, leaving unsightly hardened cement and making the job appear sloppy. Using too little cement can cause a weak connection, possibly resulting in a loose pit bowl that may detach over time. The cement should be 2 inches thick and should be applied evenly in the center of the table to prevent the bowl from drying crooked and appearing lopsided.

Do it Yourself Refinishing Rustic Outdoor Table

Replacing outdoor furniture can be expensive, so it makes sense to refinish and restore furniture that is structurally solid.

First you will want to determine what kind of finish is needed. Does the piece you are working on have a build up of old, flaking, or scaling varnish, or does it appear unfinished and weathered? Does this Spark an idea?

Refinishing Unfinished Weathered Furniture

Some woods, like cedar, redwood, cypress, and teak are usually sealed, but not finished with paint or varnish. If your piece of furniture appears to be unfinished, the fix is relatively easy.

First you will want to clean the furniture. You can buy a cleaner made especially for outdoor wood at most hardware stores, or you can use a light solution of laundry detergent, warm water, and a little bleach.

You can apply the cleaning solution with a spray bottle or pump-up sprayer. Then you will want to brush gently with the grain, using a soft bristled scrub brush until the dirt and grime are gone. Rinse with clear water, and allow to dry thoroughly.

After your piece is completely dry, sand rough areas with medium grit sandpaper and then apply a water sealant or a penetrating exterior stain.

Refinishing Previously Finished Furniture

If your piece of furniture is simply dirty and dingy, a good cleaning may be all you need. If, on the other hand, it has peeling or scaling paint or varnish, you will need to refinish.

Depending on your intent and how the furniture is to be used, you might just clean it, sand it, and apply a final coat to renew the existing finish. This would likely be appropriate for a garden table or an old picnic table.

If what is needed is a complete refinishing, you will need to use a commercial liquid stripper to remove all of the existing finish. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully for the best outcome.

When all of the existing paint or varnish has been removed, allow to dry thoroughly. You will want to sand the wood carefully before applying a finish.

Since the piece is now unfinished, you can apply the finish of your choosing. An exterior paint will add color and protection from the elements. On the other hand, if your wood has a nice grain, you might want to use an exterior polyurethane. If you like the "new" unfinished look, use a water sealant or outdoor penetrating stain. Water sealants and stains work best if reapplied every year or two.

Styles of Antique End Tables

For centuries, furniture has been created for beauty as well as function. Antique end tables are styled like their other furniture counterparts, according to the period in which they were designed. True antiques are costly, however, reproductions of these lovely pieces can be just as delightful and much more affordable. Does this Spark an idea?

Early Georgian Period: 1700-1745

As Americans became more prosperous, their furniture styles reflected English origins in the eighteenth century. The designs were more refined and more formal. The Georgian period was so named for King George I, II and III. Queen Anne, who reigned before them, introduced a new, elegant style in American furnishings with the gentle and graceful curve of the cabriole leg. Graceful, dainty tea tables with scallop and shell motifs hail from this period.

Late Georgian Period: 1745-1790

Chippendale furniture, produced in England in the 18th century, came from the designs of a furniture maker named Thomas Chippendale. His furniture style was characterized as sturdy and elegant and more masculine than Queen Anne. His designs incorporated straight and curved lines that were widely copied. Chippendale style borrowed Queen Anne, Gothic, French and Chinese elements. The pie crust tilt-top table with a center pedestal and curved legs was a favorite during this period.

Neoclassic Period: 1790-1845

The Neoclassic period has three overlapping sub-periods, Early Federal (1790-1804), Late Federal, Empire and Regency (1804-1825), and the Greek Revival or Late Empire (1825-1845). Hepplewhite, Sheraton and the Adam brothers were the premier furniture designers of this period. In typical Hepplewhite style, the Pembroke table became a tremendously popular design with its oval-drop leaves and straight, tapered legs. A round top, pedestal table with three curved legs and spade feet is also a significant design of this era. Sheraton tables are of similar style with straight, tapered or reeded legs, as are pedestal tables with splayed legs that end in a thimble foot.

Greek Revival Period: 1825-1845

Greek Revival period, also known as Late American Empire, featured furniture maker Duncan Phyfe's designs. It was bold and chunky compared to the previous period. Pillar tables with a large singular pedestal (pillar) and rectangular or round tops were used as end tables and center tables. Sometimes the supports featured large animal paw feet or other heavy carving of acanthus leaves or diamond-patterned pineapple motifs.

Wedding Food & Table Decoration Ideas

A wedding reception meal, cocktail hour hors d'oeuvres or a chic wedding dessert buffet should follow a theme. Explore the colors of the season, symbols of romance or the wedding colors, or opt for sheer elegance. Draw on common elements already expressed in the table centerpieces, wall decorations and the wedding invitation when planning the presentation of the wedding food.

Table Decorations

Gone are the days of a crisp white table cloth set with silver or crystal serving bowls. Consider decorating a buffet table with linens that match the colors of the guest dining tables. If the guest tables are covered in chocolate linens with blue floral centerpieces, get creative and reverse the look: Use a long blue buffet table linen and brown serving dishes.

Martha Stewart recommends setting up a buffet table by mixing and matching food serving platters and dishes. The vessels don't need to be from the same collection or manufacturer; simply choose a cohesive element that binds the look. For example, choose silver vessels in varying shapes, or opt for a variety of bold, solid-color serving dishes for a colorful spring wedding.

Accent the buffet table with non-perishable decorations that mimic the dining table centerpieces. Silk flower petals, battery-operated tea-light candles in votive holders and confetti can be sprinkled among serving dishes. Avoid live flowers to reduce the chances of food contamination.

Wedding Food Ideas

Cover the buffet table with foods that exemplify your wedding theme. For example, a beach-side summer wedding might feature fruit kabobs served in a hollowed-out pineapple, oysters on the half shell and starfish-shaped shortbread cookies. For a winter wedding, choose warm hearty foods such as roast beef and mashed potatoes.

The experts at The Knot website recommend serving colorful side dishes to match your wedding colors. A tomato and cucumber salad complements red and green weddings. or choose a mango chutney for fall weddings to play up orange hues.

Accent Details

Bring the whole look of the wedding together by adding subtle details to the wedding food and table decor. Have cocktail napkins personalized with motifs used on the wedding invitations. Offer appetizers that coordinate with your wedding locale: lobster bisque for a cool evening seaside reception, miniature bison burgers for a western fete or a spicy peach compote for a southern gathering. Accent the wedding cake serving station with small colorful cake plates that coordinate with the bridal colors. Offer bowls of mints in hues that complement the wedding colors.

Purple Wedding Reception Ideas

Purple can bring drama to a wedding reception. From royal purple to lighter shades like lavender, having a purple reception can allow you several options, especially when it comes to certain elements. Elements like purple flowers are widely available and can add elegance or a modern twist to a wedding reception.

Deep Purples

Accent your wedding with deep purples, creams and white. Focus on the royal purple shade for details like the reception tablecloths. Accent the tables with centerpieces of white orchid buds and deep purple floating candles or a single deep purple orchid plant. Serve a special dessert like truffles with purple flowers piped onto them. Decorate the cake with a bouquet of dark purple and light cream flowers, with a purple ribbon tied to it, resting on top of the cake. Or, have simple purple ribbon borders placed around each tier of the cake. Place mini flower pots full of small purple flowers. These can double as centerpieces and wedding favors.

Lighter Shades

Use mauve tablecloths for the reception tables. Accent with dark brown tablecloths or place mats. Place a brown or clear vase in the center of the table and fill with lighter purple flowers with accents of green. Use flowering oregano, lavender roses and even lilac. Have the cake mirror the colors of lilac and lavender with a few sugar flowers in this color or a lavender border around the tiers. Use a light purple or white light to light up the dance floor. Hand out bundles of lavender attached to a small card with the guest's name and table number on it before they walk into the reception.

Contrast

Contrast a purple color with green. If you want to have your wedding in deep purple, contrast with almost a lime green. If you're thinking of a more lighter shade of purple, a lighter lime shade of green can be a good contrast. Set up centerpiece bouquets of deep purple flowers and bright green hydrangeas. Make a cake similar to the bouquets at the centers of each table. Have one tier of the cake be adorned with the hydrangeas. Have the next tier down be adorned with the purple flowers and so on. Hand out candy favors consisting of purple and green chocolate candy, taffy and lollipops. Or set up a candy bar with these items.

What Is a Demilune?

Demilune is a word borrowed from French literally meaning "half-moon." Though it has been used to describe many things crescent-shaped, from purses to microbes to the elements of fortification architecture, demilune also pertains to furniture with half-moon design elements. Does this Spark an idea?

The Demilune Table

Demilune furniture is essentially crescent-shaped and flat-backed. "A demilune" usually references the demilune table, in specific. These are a half-moon-shaped tables designed to stand against the wall. Because of their configurations, demilunes are considered a type of console table. Console tables are designed to be pushed against the wall, and in some cases, bracketed and/or bolted for extra support. The typical console table is small, versatile and commonly found near a door or hallway for easy access to convenient key/purse/small item drop-off. Of course, a demilune holding a few books and carefully selected art item can be just as pleasing.

Understanding the Demilune Design

These hemispherical tables are thus generally smaller, with half-round table tops, and a flat backside. It is common for the front apron to be likewise half-spherical, following the contour of the demilune design. Some designs incorporate a curved storage area of variable length. A demilune table usually has three to four legs; two are located on either side of the table, while the additional legs spaced equidistant from each other on the arc. A third leg would be found in the middle of the arc, for example.
The crescent shape of a demilune table may be a plain or stylized half-circle. Some demilune tables are designed with a flip top and pull out support, allowing the table to open into a full circle if pulled away from the wall. Stylized demilunes could have edges obscured by foliage, scrolls or other design elements.

Demilune Elements of Style

The elegant curvature of the demilune console makes it a slightly more formal choice for a hallway nook or classy seating area, though the design is suitable for any space. The demilune is also ideal for smaller spaces, since its configuration requires less physical space than a rectangular table top. Demilune tables are a popular choice for home decor because they come in a wide range of styles that can complement various home settings. In addition, they can represent a fun weekend project for a home woodworking shop.

Choosing a Demilune Table

When looking for a demilune table to accent your home, be sure to consider both style and construction. Does the specific demilune design complement existing decor? Is it too delicate, or too bold? Does it match your style? Will it need to be touched up, restained or repainted?
When considering construction, take a closer look at the joints of the table. Strong joints are reinforced with pegs and screws, while legs that have been only glued are less stable. Also, be sure to check the back of the demilune table to determine its quality. Is the backing particle board or veneer rather than wood, for example? Higher quality furniture will pay attention to all details of the piece, even those not seen when pushed against a wall. Of course, such attention to detail will also be reflected in pricing, and it is not essential. If exposed particle board is a concern on an otherwise respectable demilune table, it can be primed and painted.

Other Demilune Furniture

Chests, cabinets, dressers and even sinks can also bear a demilune design, following half-moon shapes. Again, it is very common for the entire front to curve with the crescent shape, in addition to a curved top. Technically, any piece of furniture can be "demilunic" if incorporating the half-moon, flat-back design.

How to Build a Patio Table with a Fire Pit

A patio table with a fire pit offers a warm relaxing space to enjoy when the weather begins to get cooler. Many patio table sets offer a recessed area to build a small fire and often come with a screen dome to prevent embers and sparks from escaping. These tables are often expensive and a hassle to get home from the store. With these tips, you can build your own. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Buy the lumber for the size of patio table fire pit you want. The type of wood you get is a personal preference.

2

Build the surround for the fire pit from the lumber as desired. Gather or purchase rock or stone to construct the center basin that holds the central fire pit bowl. Place the rocks or stone in a pattern or styles desired and join them with a mortar of cement that contains no adhesives. Dry stacking the stones is another common method of construction. Leave a depression in the center of the stone for the fire pit bowl.

3

Find an appropriate size fire pit bowl basin for the center depression in the stone patio table. Most home improvement stores will carry these.

4

Fill the fire pit basin with an appropriate amount of wood or other burning material and light it. Allow the fire to consume the material and check all of the stone to ensure the fire pit bowl is secure in place.

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.

List of Basic Weight Conversions

More than 100 different measurements exist throughout the world, many being country specific. Only a few of these classify as common mass measurements, while the others remain as infrequently used, outdated or irrelevant. Most basic weight measurements fit into the category of metric, U.S. or imperial. Carat (when referring to mass) is also part of the metric system, but measures the weight of only gemstones and pearls.

Metric

The metric system of weight dates to the 18th century, and exists as a standard in all the countries of the world. Metric weight includes the metric ton, kilogram, gram and milligram. One metric ton is 1,000 kilograms, one kilogram is 1,000 grams and one gram is 1,000 milligrams. The metric ton is comparable to the imperial short ton, one weighing 1.102 short tons. One kilogram is 2.204 pounds or 35.274 ounces.

U.S. Customary

The U.S. Customary system has its origin in the imperial system, though some measurements vary slightly. The short ton, often called just "ton," differs from the ton in the imperial measurements. The most common weights in the U.S. customary system are the short ton, pound and ounce. One short ton is equal to 2,000 pounds or 32,000 ounces. One pound is, therefore, 16 ounces. One short ton is 0.907 metric tons, one pound is 0.453 kilograms and one ounce is 28.349 grams.

Imperial

The imperial system of measurement began its use in the British Empire in 1824. It is similar to the currently used U.S. customary system, however, incorporates the measurement of "stone" and uses a different mass for its ton. One stone equals 14 pounds, 224 ounces or 6.35 kilograms. An imperial ton is equal to 1.016 metric tons or 1.12 short tons.

Small Weight Measurements

The carat is the smallest of the metric weights, being equal to 200 milligrams. Its close equivalent in the imperial and U.S. customary system is the grain, at 3.086 grains to the carat or 0.324 carats to the grain. The U.S. customary system also has the slightly larger weight of dram (256 drams to the pound), which is called drachm in the imperial system.

The Best Stackable Outdoor Chairs

The best stackable outdoor chairs are durable as well as comfortable. Stackable chairs that are constructed of renewable resources such as recycled materials are even more ideal. The highest quality outdoor chairs are light enough to stack easily yet strong enough to support a variety of weights. Wide bottoms, solid legs and sturdy backs ensure that everyone who sits on the stackable chair is well supported. Many excellent stackable chairs are available in a wide variety of materials to suit any budget. Does this Spark an idea?

Recycled Plastic Lumber

Besides being made from 100 percent recycled plastics, stackable outdoor chairs crafted from plastic lumber are extremely durable. They hold up under any weather condition and are easy to clean and maintain. They often come in a variety of colors and have complementary tables to complete the outdoor furniture set. Eagle One makes a variety of outdoor furniture pieces, including high quality stackable chairs.

Eucalyptus

The best stackable outdoor chairs made from Eucalyptus wood are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This means that the wood taken to construct the garden chairs comes from a managed forest that is in no danger of being depleted. The stackable chairs offered by International Home Miami are of a superior quality.

Aluminum

People searching for a more modern outdoor stackable chair will love the aluminum styles offered by the company Euro Style. The contemporary designs are classic, lightweight and highly affordable. The framing is constructed of steel for added durability, making it the perfect garden chair.

Resin

If a punch of color is desired, the best choice for a stackable chair are the ones created from resin. Resin chairs are made from brightly colored materials, enhancing any outdoor garden with a vibrant coordinating shade. The La Plaza Collection by Siesta offered by Cozy Days is a top-of-the-line stackable outdoor resin chair that comes in a variety of styles and colors.

Wicker

Outdoor wicker chairs that stack are natural looking and are practical for someone wanting furniture that blends in with the gardens environment. They come in an assortment of styles, from a traditional dining design to a comfortable armchair rendition.

Synthetic Finish

Resin outdoor garden chairs offered by Belson Outdoors are uniquely designed stackable pieces of furniture that simulate the look of metal or wood but are actually made from patented resin-based materials. They are more economical than the real thing and are far easier to maintain.

Mixed Materials

Stackable garden chairs made from more than one material are unique pieces of furniture that add style and warmth to any outdoor living area. Aluminum or steel framing paired with wicker, plastic or resin components create unique garden chairs that create a warm and inviting atmosphere in any garden.

Plastic

The Deja Vu clear plastic stackable chairs created by Siesta are a truly unique adaptation of the classic plastic garden chair. The elegant transparent color options are all stunning while the structure of the chairs remain strong and sturdy. These distinct stackable outdoor chairs fit well with any style.

Metric to Inch Tire Size Conversion

If you look on the side of your car or truck's tire, you'll see a series of numbers, usually designated like the following example: P185/60R14. The first of those numbers is the tire width in millimeters. The second is the aspect ratio, which measures the width of the sidewall in relationship to the overall width. The third number is the wheel size, measured in inches. All of these numbers can be expressed in terms of standard values.

Instructions

1

Write down the tire size as found on the sidewall of your vehicle's tire. The number is located near the outer edge of the tire.

2

Multiply the first number, the tire width, by .03937. This will convert the the width from millimeters to inches. Using the above example of 185 millimeters, the tire would have a width of 7.28 inches.

3

Multiply the tire width (the number found in Step 2) by the percentage found in the aspect ratio, which is the second of the three numbers in the tire size. Using the example tire, the sidewall is 60 percent of the width, or 4.37 inches.

4

Multiply the sidewall width (the number found in Step 3) by two. This is necessary in determining the wheel's diameter because the sidewall is featured on both sides of the tire rim. The example tire would calculate to 8.74 inches of sidewall.

5

Add the third number found on the tire, the wheel size, to the total sidewall width (the number that was found in Step 4). This total will provide the complete tire diameter, including both the tire and wheel assembly. The P185/60R14 will have a diameter of 22.74 inches.

How to Decorate a Foyer Table

The foyer area is the first introduction guests have to your home. The impression you create with this entrance is important. Whether the space is small and cozy or large and expansive, there are a few elements that help create an interesting entryway, such as a foyer table. A well-decorated foyer table enhances the decor of your home and makes a welcoming space that greets your friends and family. With a few easy-to-find home decor items, your foyer area can go from drab to dramatic. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Choose a foyer table. A foyer table is just one element in your foyer space, so when choosing a table keep in mind the style of your home, the space available and the scale of your space. You want a table to fit perfectly in your entryway.

2

Add lighting. Foyer areas are often dimly lit, so if you have an electrical outlet available near your table, add a lamp on one side of the table. If space allows, two lamps on the right and left side of the foyer table add even more lighting and gives the space a symmetrical look.

3

Hang a mirror behind your table. As an extension of your table space, a wall mirror behind your table gives the illusion of added space. Since most foyers are narrow, a mirror creates a feeling of width.

4

Lay a rug in front of your foyer table. Rugs are great ways to add color and texture to a space. Incorporate some of the colors in the rug with items on your table.

5

Add practical items to your table. Most homeowners want an area to set down their keys and mail, so include a small tray or basket on your table so practical items are within easy reach each day.

6

Accessorize your foyer table. Add a creative touch to your table by accessorizing your table top with seasonal items such as a tray of pumpkins, gourds and Indian corn in autumn, apothecary jars filled with multicolored ornaments in winter, bird nests and birdhouses in spring and fresh flowers in vases in summer.

7

Add battery-operated candles. The crowning touch to your dramatic foyer table is the addition of candlelight. Finish your foyer table design with one or two battery-operated candles among your accessories for a soft, welcoming effect.

How to Put the Top on the Ikea Drafting Table

Ikea sells furniture and home accessories through its stores located worldwide. Ikea is known for selling furniture in knocked-down form. This enables customers to easily haul their purchases home without needing a furniture van. The pieces are then assembled by the customer at home with instructions included with each item. The Ikea drafting table comes in two major parts -- the table leg assembly and the table top. Both pieces are purchased separately. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Locate the factory drilled holes on each side of the underside of the drafting table top.

2

Slide a metal collar over the end of each of the screws -- both included with the table top -- to create mounting studs.

3

Twist the threaded end of one of the screws into the pre-drilled hole in one corner of the table top. Tighten the screw with a Phillips screwdriver. Install the remaining screw and collar into the pre-drilled hole on the opposite end of the table top in the same fashion.

4

Locate the six holes -- three in front and three at the rear -- on each table top support bracket on each side of the drawing table leg assembly. Push a rubber plug into a hole on each bracket closest to where you will be seated when using the table.

5

Turn the table top over so that the top is facing upwards. Lift the table top and lower it while simultaneously guiding the two mounting studs installed at the rear of the underside of the top into one of the three holes on each support bracket farthest from the seating position. Ensure each stud is lowered into the same hole in each bracket.

6

Let the front of the table top rest on the rubber plugs installed at the front of the support brackets.

How to Paint a Table With a Distressed Look

The distressed look gives new furniture a vintage makeover. Accent your home decor in Shabby Chic style when you learn how to distress a table or any other piece of furniture. This basic technique has impressive results despite the simplicity of the process. Once you finish your first distressed table, you'll get the urge to shop for new furniture so you can make it look old, too. This project finds new use for those older pieces of furniture left over from your yard sale; you'll fall in love with them all over again. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Clean off the table and remove any drawers or hardware it may have; set these off to the side. If the table is covered in a wax or shiny coating, sand it using medium-grade sandpaper until it has a rougher exterior and the gloss is gone.

2

Paint the table with a coat of primer. The primer will prepare the table for your paint job and help it look even; let the primer dry entirely before moving on.

3

Paint the table with two to three coats of furniture-grade paint. For a classic distressed look, choose a pastel paint color like eggshell cream or pale buttery yellow. Another option is to go dark and paint the furniture a deep espresso brown or even black, depending on your decor. Let each coat of paint dry before adding another; when the paint is even and fully covers the table, you can stop. Let the painted furniture dry completely.

4

Use sandpaper to sand down the edges of the paint. Pay particular attention to the parts of the table that would naturally get the most abuse, such as the corners or edges. Sand down these areas until some of the wood shows through, then move on and sand other areas so the paint appears scratched and worn. Move around the table's surface, sanding each section with a varied degree of severity until you are satisfied with the result.

5

If the table has drawers, repeat the above steps with the drawer fronts.

6

Coat the table in a clear coat sealant or a furniture polishing product to protect the surface you worked so hard to create. Some furniture polish, such as those made with orange oil, will actually help to age the piece further and add to its new vintage charm. When the table is dry, replace any hardware or drawers that you removed previously.

About Decorative Lighting Accessories

Decorative lighting accessories can be as simple as a table lamp or as complicated as a chandelier. Finding the right lighting accessories is based on your needs, budget, and decorating scheme. Most categories of lighting fall within accent lighting, task lighting or general lighting. Does this Spark an idea?

Bedroom Task Lighting

In a bedroom, task lighting is the best choice for those who read in bed. Consider bedside lamps.

Bedroom Accent Lighting

Choose an overhead fixture, such as an elegant, small chandelier if you need decorative lighting. Accent this piece with coordinating bedside lamps. These small lamps by the bedside are considered accent lighting and contribute to the room's beauty.

Bathroom Task Lighting

Bathroom lighting needs to perform on a more functional level, also known as task lighting. Lighting for the bathroom will include fixtures that rest above the mirror, over the sink. Sconce lighting adds ambiance above a bathtub or in an alcove. Combination lights/fans are also useful additions, typically used in the toilet area and provide circulation as well as light.

Kitchen Task Lighting

Track lighting is a functional choice for kitchen lighting, along with lights that are installed under the cabinets. Pendant lighting can be placed over a bar area or sink, and over a table or work area. Decorative lighting in the kitchen will often get dirty with grease and other debris, so choose finishes that are easy to clean and refresh.

Living Room General Lighting

General lighting is used in the largest living areas. Incorporate recessed lighting to emphasize the living room's height. Ceiling fans with built-in lights illuminate a room and keep it cooler. Track lighting and table and floor lamps are other options.

Decorative Painting Ideas for Picnic Tables

Your picnic table is the centerpiece of backyard barbecues and outdoor parties. Families and friends gather at the picnic table to share delicious food and enjoyable conversation. After years of use, a picnic table's paint starts to chip and fade. Breathe new life into your picnic table by applying a fresh coat of paint. Does this Spark an idea?

Prepare the Table

Before you start your painting project, clean off the table and prepare it for the job. Take all objects off the table and sweep away any dirt or debris. If the table is very dirty, scrub it with a bristle brush and warm, soapy water. Spray the entire table with a high-pressure hose and allow it to dry.

Use construction adhesive or wood filler to seal cracks in the wood. A power orbital sander helps you sand down the table's surface if it has too many scratches to paint. If you want your paint job to last for years, apply a coat of bonding primer. Skip the primer if you want a worn, weathered look.

Use Two Colors

You don't have to choose a single color for your picnic table. Select two or more colors that complement one another. Bright, cheerful colors work best for outdoor picnic tables. Colors such as yellow, red and turquoise give the table a festive, summery look. Paint the tabletop and seats one color, and the table legs another color. Alternatively, paint each table slat an alternating color. For a more natural appearance, just paint the tabletop or seats, leaving the rest of the table unpainted.

Stenciling

Stenciling lets you decorate your picnic table with charming graphics or lettering. Most art stores sell a variety of high-quality stencils, as well as plastic sheets for making your own. Use stencils to spell your family's names on the table seats, or try stenciling the tabletop with tropical flowers, palm trees or other beach imagery.

To stencil properly, secure the stencil to the table by taping it down. Use a special brush and paint designed specifically for stenciling to get the best results. Allow the paint to dry before removing the stencil to avoid smearing wet paint.

Table Art

Turn painting the picnic table into a family project by allowing everyone in your home to add his own personal touch. Designate a section of the table for each family member, and give everyone a small brush and paint. Ask everyone to paint a small picture or his name on the table. Coat your family's artwork with a water-based paint protectant if you want it to last for years.

How to Draw a Kitchen Table

The kitchen table is the centerpiece of any kitchen, whether it's being used as a gathering place for family meals (or preparing those meals) or any number of purposes. The tables in many people's kitchens vary as much as the families that use them. Some are more contemporary, some modern. When it comes to drawing your own kitchen table (or the one of your dreams), simply keep in mind basic geometric shapes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Lay your ruler out flat and horizontal in the upper middle of your paper. Use the ruler's edge as a guide to draw a straight horizontal line, sized according to how large or small you want your final table to appear. This line serves as the table's surface, the top edge farthest away from the viewer.

2

Slide the ruler down a few inches; since the final image is 3-D, the further the next line is away from the first line your drew, the more table top surface area is exposed. Slide the ruler down according to how much area you want visible, and then draw another horizontal line. Make this line longer on each side than the one above it.

3

Turn the ruler to a 45 degree angle with the right side angled up to the right. Slide the ruler over to the left hand side of the two lines you drew. Draw a 45 degree angled line that connects the two horizontal lines together, and then slide the ruler over to the right hand side, turn it so it angles up to the left, and draw another 45 degree connecting line. You should now have a trapezoidal shape on your paper.

4

Measure just slightly below the longest horizontal line and draw another, similar line just below it, and then add two small vertical lines that connect these two lines together. This gives the appearance of depth. Now you have your table top surface. Measure in just slightly from the right and left corners of the table top and draw a vertical line on each side, making the table legs.

5

Flesh out the legs of the table by drawing adjacent lines to these lines and connecting the two lines at the bottom with a horizontal line (they'll appear as very long, thin rectangles when done). Draw thinner rectangle legs just inside of these legs, making these shorter than the ones in the foreground, giving the appearance of distance.

6

After drawing your table with a pencil, you may get a more finished, defined look by going back over your drawing with black ink. You may also add any decorative details you like.

How to Refinish End Tables

Tired of your ugly end table? If it is solid and well-designed, all it may need is a face lift. You can finish the job yourself at home, turning your end table into a fresh-faced work of art. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Instructions

1

Detach any drawers from your end table. You will have to work with each piece of your end table separately until the process is complete.

2

Obtain a chemical stripper labeled as requiring "no cleanup," or that can be easily washed away with water. While some strippers come in liquid form, others are gels or pastes. Since you will be working with both horizontal and vertical surfaces of an end table, avoid liquid forms that will run off the sides and legs.

3

Read the instructions that come from the manufacturer of the chemical stripper.

4

Spread a coat of stripper to a small area of your end table. Wait for the time advised in the manufacturer's instructions while the stripper does its work.

5

Using a round-edged putty knife, remove the old finish. In places where the finish refuses to come off, use steel wool soaked in the stripper. In certain areas, multiple applications of stripper may be required. Repeat this and the previous step until you have coated and removed the stripper over all desired surfaces of your end table.

6

Clean the remaining stripper from the surfaces of your end table with water or turpentine and wait for the wood to dry.

7

Lightly sand the end table where needed. The appearance of your new finish will largely rely on how well you sand. Be sure not to leave any rough patches or defects, and sand in the direction of the wood grain. Mistakes may be accentuated after the final finish.

8

If your table is made of oak or mahogany, you will need to work grain filler into the grain. Since grain filler is a pigmented paste, choose a color that goes along with your planned design. This will depend on the color of the wood, the color you wish to stain it and the degree to which you'd like the wood grain emphasized. Apply the paste filler and press it into the grain along your end table surfaces.

9

Allow the filler to dry before using your putty knife to remove excess. Sand lightly once again along the grain line.

10

Apply a sanding sealer to all surfaces and allow it to dry before lightly sanding once again. This will act as a primer for the wood, preventing it from absorbing too much of your stain.

11

Apply your chosen stain evenly to the wood with a brush or rag, and allow it to penetrate the wood as long as desired: the longer you leave it, the darker the color. Wipe off excess stain with a rag and leave the wood to dry. Repeat this step if you would like your wood darker.

12

Using either polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, or lacquer, apply your finish. You may need to apply several coats and even lightly sand between applications. Allow your end table to dry.

How to Store Cushions for the Winter

Maintaining your home through every season is especially important if you live in an area with harsh winters. If you have outdoor furniture that includes cushions, storing them properly for the winter is important. Trapped moisture can cause mold and mildew, which in turn can cause extensive damage to cushions during the winter. Storing cushions carefully will allow you to use them for many years to come. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Clean the cushions. Use a power washer to give them a good, deep clean. If they have stains or tough grime, use a cleanser approved for use on the material covering the cushions.

2

Wrap the cushions in old blankets or sheets when dry. This will protect them from outdoor elements, while also keeping them dry so mold or mildew does not form. Don't wrap them in plastic, as that will impede air circulation and actually encourage moisture to accumulate on the cushions.

3

Place the cushions in an area that has good air circulation, such as a shed or on a high shelf in a garage. Make sure the storage place is dry and cool. You want to avoid any type of moisture.

Ideas for Replacing Glass on a Patio Table

A glass patio table is a reliable piece of furniture for the patio as it's relatively easy to clean, as opposed to a wooden table that will weather and warp over time. However, the glass in a patio table can become scratched and worn out and may need to be replaced. There are a number of ways to do this, including changing what the surface of the table is actually made from. Does this Spark an idea?

Replace the Glass

By simply replacing the glass in a patio table, you will have removed the weathered look and made your patio table look as good as new. Depending on the size of your patio table, replacement glass, textured or clear, cost $250 to $350 in late 2009 to cut and ship to you, complete with a hole in the middle for your umbrella.

Replace with Plastic

Because glass tables are a bit fragile, replacing a glass patio tabletop with a plastic tabletop might be the perfect option. These tabletops are about the same price but are more durable to shocks and scratching against their surfaces. Plastic tabletops are made of acrylic Plexiglas and are almost unbreakable. They can be patterned or clear in their design. The only downsides to these tables is that they appear to be a little cheap, as even faux-glass plastics have a certain tackiness to them.

Stone Tabletops

A much more expensive but also much more expressive and aesthetically pleasing alternative to a glass patio table is a round stone-top patio table. These tables are often ornately designed out of stones, cement and mortar, with patterns of different-colored stones and tiles decorating their tops. Durable to both human abuse and the weather, these tables will outlast the house itself, if given the opportunity. However, if you are simply replacing the glass in your patio table, a stone tabletop may not work, as they need rather specific frames. Most stone tabletops have supports holding them that are made out of a strong metal; many glass and plastic patio tables have plastic supports holding them up, as they are designed to hold much less weight.

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.

6




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 Set a Coffee Table

Coffee tables add decorative appeal to a living room or den. It provides a place for family members or guests to set their dishes on the table while enjoying a cup of coffee or snack. Choosing the right decor to add color and texture to the table also enhances the room theme and colors. A bare coffee table looks plain, while a cluttered table makes the room look messy. It is important to create the right balance of knickknacks and other decorative accessories to make the most of this small surface. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Pick decor that matches the theme and colors in the room. For instance, if you have a country-style living room, place a wicker basket with pine cones on the table. Add a pillar candle in a shade that reflects one of the accent colors in the room and set it in a wooden candle holder. Set a country-themed book on the table for guests to browse through.

2

Purchase items that are a low height. This prevents blocking the view of guests conversing in the room. Vary the heights of the objects to create interest, but make sure they do not block anyone's view.

3

Decorate the coffee table with only three items to avoid cluttering the table. If you have a large table or smaller items, use groups of three similar items to create unity. For instance, three coordinating candlesticks of different heights, three books with leather bound covers or a collection of three porcelain knickknacks.

4

Set a low floral arrangement in the center of a small coffee table, often this is all that is necessary to create a beautiful setting.

Outdoor Potting Benches and Table Plants

Potting benches give gardeners a place to store supplies and a surface area for potting seedlings and table plants outdoors. Having potting soil, pottery and plant food within reach when you need them not only keeps materials organized, it makes the process of caring for plants more relaxing. Designs vary, but most have a shape similar to a bench with a bottom shelf, workspace and sometimes a few hooks along the sides for gloves and hand shovels. Does this Spark an idea?

Potting Benches

Whether you buy a potting bench or make one yourself, most will have the same basic features. Typically made of metal or wood, the wood can be stained or left natural, but it should be sealed to protect it from water and sun damage, deterioration and other elements. Shelf height is an important consideration. Find one that is adjustable or tall enough that you don't have to lean over when taking a cutting from a plant or dividing bulbs. Look for a potting bench with wheels if you would like to take it out to your garden.

Potting benches can add a decorative, rustic look to a garden or patio. Look for a design that will accommodate as many of your needs as possible without taking up too much space. The purpose is to provide a functional outdoor workspace.

Orchids

The Phalaenopsis, Vandas and Cattleyas orchids are grown by many home gardeners. Their exotic, slender form and successive, colorful blooms make orchids a rewarding table plant. Flowers range from white, pink and yellow to violet, orange and multicolored. They can grow up to 16 inches tall in indirect or filtered sunlight in a room with 60 to 80 percent humidity. They are susceptible to root rot, so they should never sit in water, and they prefer temperatures above 65 F.

As your table orchids grow, add a bamboo stake to support the flowers. Fill the pot with a loose outdoor material likes stones or bark chips. You may bring your orchids outside on warm, humid days, but keep them out of direct sunlight.

Roses

Small roses are a fragrant, colorful outdoor table plant. Many species need a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight and can thrive on sunny patios or garden tables. Even small roses need containers large enough to give them rooting space and plenty of soil to hold water. Small polyantha species and miniature roses need at least a 5-gallon container. Choose a pot made from lightweight material if you live in a warm climate as the sun can heat up the container. Large pots with plenty of soil help keep roses cool.

Outdoor Summer Party Decoration Ideas

Throwing an outdoor summer party for your friends and family is the perfect way to jump start your summer. When decorating your deck, porch, patio or backyard, your goal will likely be to create a beautiful, vibrant space that sets the mood for summer. To achieve this summery atmosphere, there are several outdoor summer party decoration ideas you can use, including setting up flowers and lights, making your picnic table festive and hanging up (and eventually knocking down) a piata.

Floral Arrangements

Setting up floral arrangements in your outdoor space is an ideal way to decorate for a summer party, as the flowers will provide lavish colors and fragrant smells. In addition, flowers are inexpensiveand sometimes freeas you may have fresh flowers growing in your garden already. Countryliving.com recommends using seasonal summer flowers, such as daisies. Decorate tables, railings and other outdoor surfaces with daisies placed in vases (the above recommends cobalt blue), or you can hang themin small galvanized metal bucketsfrom outdoor fence, porch and patio posts.

Lights

Outdoor lights come in a number of styles. Hang paper lanternsalso known as Chinese lanternsaround your outdoor space to add colorful, stylish light to your party (tastefully hung holiday lights can also do the trick). Another option is to place votives around your space, which are essentially small candles in bags, most commonly used in vigilsthese can be functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. Add tiki torches and/or citronella candles to your outdoor space to create a summery atmosphere, which will help keep mosquitoes and other uninvited bugs away from partygoers.

Festive Picnic Table

Make your picnic or outdoors table (or tables) festive by adding floral arrangements and lights to your table. Add colorful tableware, as well as a bright, underlying cotton tablecloth. You can also create a summery centerpiece for the center of your table by incorporating sand and shells for a day-at-the-beach type of feel.

Piatas

Piatas are classic outdoor summer party decorations and are especially enjoyed by children. Piatas come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and can be filled with candies and treats. Choose a piata that complements the rest of your outdoor spaces color scheme.

Metric Bolt Tightness Specs

Regardless of the type of bolt, the tightness that a bolt requires -- its torque -- is essential to using a bolt properly. The torque of a bolt will vary depending upon a number of factors, which can make finding torque specs a little difficult. However, there are many ways to find out what the torque specifications are for a particular bolt.

Torque

When speaking of the tightness of a bolt, one is actually referring to the bolt's torque. Torque is the amount of force that is required to rotate an object, like a bolt, around a pivot point. With bolts, the torque is the amount of tightening it requires so that the bolt and whatever the bolt is secured to are not damaged.

Metric Bolts vs. SAE Bolts

There are two major categories of bolts: SAE bolts, which are sized by their diameter, pitch thread and length and are measured in inches; and metric bolts, which are sized by their diameter, distance between threads, and length and are measured in millimeters. SAE or American bolts are used in America; metric bolts are used in most other countries. When looking at a bolt torque specification chart, it is important to check the chart for whether the specs are for SAE or metric bolts, since their torque specs will not be the same.

Bolt Grades

Not all bolts are the same. Bolts are made out of different materials that give them different strengths, uses and capabilities. All bolts have a grade, which indicates the strength of a bolt and what material it is made from. Usually the grade is stamped on the head of the bolt, but metric bolts are sometimes unmarked. Higher grade bolts have higher torque values.

Torque Specs

There are many charts available online that will give a rough estimate of a bolt's torque specs based on its size and grade; however, all of these charts are approximations. The torque of a bolt will vary depending upon the manufacturer and other factors, such as whether the bolt is lubricated or dry. There are many instances in which knowing exact bolt specs is essential; for instance, preventing a bolt from breaking or a material from warping. In these cases, contacting the supplier of the bolts for their specs or looking for a chart that is specifically designed for a certain brand of bolt is very important.

Tuscan Interior Decorating Ideas

Tuscan interior design is influenced by rustic decorating elements common in villages throughout the Mediterranean region. The style uses earth elements and natural colors to create a relaxing and comfortable living environment. Tuscan decor can create a vibrant and cozy kitchen and dining space, or you can use Tuscan elements throughout the home for a fluid transition from room to room. Does this Spark an idea?

Colors

Appropriate colors for Tuscan design include shades commonly found in earth, stone, wood and water. Rich yellow, orange or tan walls create a warm surrounding. Painted faux finishes can create texture and give more depth to wall colors. Tile or wood floors often feature the darkest shades, including browns, burnt crimsons and orange hues. Hand carved wood furniture in dark brown or black makes a striking accent against the light, warm room.

Wall Decor

Tapestries are a common choice for Tuscan wall decorating. Use colorful fabrics with complex floral patterns as a base for the color palate for other accessories in the home. Large pieces of decorative ironwork or mirrors with intricate iron frames work well on accent walls or in alcoves. Mirrors can also help to multiply natural light, which is an important aspect of nature in Tuscan design. Murals are a more permanent option for decorating alcoves, and garden and village scenes are a colorful and cozy way to invoke the life of the Italian landscape in your home.

Accent Pieces

Handmade pottery is a vital element in Tuscan design. Vases, urns and canisters in rich accent colors are nice additions to living spaces. Colorful ceramic pieces with hand-painted fruit and garden themes are often used in kitchen and dining spaces. Floral arrangements and fruit displays are another necessary element to pull together a theme that embodies the importance of nature and gardening in Tuscany. Wrought iron candelabras and chandeliers should grace dining spaces to provide warm, low lighting. Functional accessories, such as leather-bound books, maintain Tuscan color and style on a bookshelf.

Furniture

Tuscan furniture is simple, rustic and usually handcarved, and the dark colors of rustic wood furniture complement the subdued earth tones on walls. Solid wood benches and accent tables match the purpose of entry spaces and living rooms. Wood hutches or display cabinets can showcase pottery and accent pieces in the living or dining area. Dining tables may be round or rectangle, combined with solid wood chairs with leather seat cushions. Tall headboards are an elegant hallmark of Tuscan bedroom furniture. Built-in marble countertops in gold or deep orange shades add an opulent touch to kitchens and bathrooms.