How to Make a Folding Lawn Chair Table

A simple table resting next to your lawn chairs can provide a convenient spot for setting drinks, books, sunscreen and other outdoor items. Rather than spending money on a premade lawn table, you can save the cost by purchasing a few basic materials and making your own table which folds for easy storage. Once your folding lawn chair table is finished, you can stain or paint it to match your lawn chairs and other outdoor furnishings. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Spread the five 18-inch-long boards side by side on a flat surface running parallel to one another. Space the boards inch apart.

2

Lay the 1-by-2 board perpendicularly across the five boards. Adjust the board so it rests on its 2-inch width, and align it to run 1 inch in from the edge of the five boards. Insert five evenly spaced 1 -inch screws through the board and into each of the five boards below.

3

Place the 2-by-2 board to run opposite the 1-by-2 board. Bring the board 1 inch in from the other side. Secure the board with five 2 -inch screws.

4

Stand the 14-inch 2-by-12 board upright over the 1-by-2 board. Hold a piano hinge to the point where the 14-inch board meets the 1-by-2 board. Insert 1-inch screws as needed along the hinge to attach it to the boards and allow the 14-inch board to fold in over the five table top boards.

5

Stand the 13-inch 2-by-12 board upright, and position it over the 2-by-2 board. Align the other piano hinge to the boards, and secure the hinge with 1-inch screws.

6

Turn the table over and extend the 13- and 14-inch boards to rest upright. To fold the table, fold in the 14-inch leg under first, followed by the 13-inch leg.

Folding Table Instructions

Folding tables provide a fast, temporary and convenient surface for serving food, making crafts or any other project or task that requires a flat, sturdy surface. If you are enlisted to help set up for a banquet, party or just a game of bridge, read on to learn how to unfold and take down a folding table. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Turn the table upside down and lay it flat on the ground.

2

Look at the legs to see what type of table you have. Virtually all folding tables are built either with four extending legs or two posts fitted with two legs each.

3

Open a four-leg table by raising each leg on its hinge from under the table surface and pulling outward until it locks into place.

4

Turn the table right-side up.

5

Close a four-legged folding table for storage by turning the table on its edge and depressing the release button on each leg next to the hinge, then fold the leg back underneath the table surface.

6

Set up a rectangular or large, circular two-post table by setting it upside down on the ground.

7

Raise the posts upright until perpendicular with the underside of the table surface and lock them into place by sliding the metal bracket between the legs of each post until it locks in the center of the legs.

8

Close the large folding table by raising the metal locking bracket from the hinge on each leg assembly and folding the posts back underneath the table surface.

How to Make a Foldable for a Periodic Table

Mastering chemistry isn't an easy feat. Fortunately, students can use a variety of helpful tools and resources to make learning chemistry easier. A foldable helps students by presenting important information in an organized, three-dimensional and interactive way. By creating their own foldable of the periodic table, students learn the organization and arrangement of the elements in a way that helps them better grasp the related concepts and ideas.

Instructions

1

Print out a blank periodic table on large white paper. Print the periodic table on the paper so that the paper is viewed with the long, 17-inch edges along the top and bottom and the 11-inch edges on the sides.

2

Fill in the periodic table using a pen. Use another, completed periodic table as a reference when entering information about the elements' abbreviation, atomic number and atomic weight.

3

Use colored pencils to color in the periodic table. Color code the major groups, such as Alkali Metals, Alkaline-earth Metals, Transition Metals and Lanthanides and Actinides.

4

Create two sheets that will attach to either side of your periodic table. Lay out the pages so that the 11-inch edge is on the sides. Add pertinent information such as atomic structure, bonding rules and other useful charts to these side sheets. For easy readability, color in these charts with colored pencils as well.

5

Laminate the two side sheets and the large periodic table sheet. Trim excess laminate from the sides of the sheets.

6

Put together the foldable by taping one side sheet to each side of the large sheet showing the periodic table. Each side sheet can then fold up and cover the periodic table, for easy transportation and keeping.

How to Build a Wooden Table With Foldable Legs

Foldable tables are handy to have around when you need some extra surface area at a large backyard gathering or a Friday night bridge game. You can make your own foldable table with scraps from your workshop. Once you master the basic table creation, adjust the dimensions for different-sized tables. Folding screw mounts vary from one manufacturer to another, but most allow you to lock the legs in place when the table is up and then release them when you want to put the table away. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Decide on the tabletop size. Assume you are using a 40-by-30-inch piece of wood for the tabletop, and it's an inch thick. The standard height of a dining room table is 30 inches, thus your legs will be 29 inches long with an inch added by the tabletop thickness.

2

Measure and cut the 2-by-2 plank into four legs, each 29 inches long.

3

Lay the tabletop on a level floor with the bottom facing up. Line up each leg a half inch from the corner. Position each leg with a folding leg bracket, carefully laying out the direction each leg will fold toward to prevent overlapping legs. A simple solution has each bracket fold to the right of the leg, giving each leg its own side.

4

Mark each mount's screw holes with a pencil, both on the table bottom and the leg.

5

Drill the screw holes. Mount the bracket on the table by screwing it in place. Then position each leg and screw it securely in place. Test the folding of each leg to make sure it sits flush with the table bottom.

How to Make a Folding Coffee Table

A folding coffee table is a great way to have table space when you need it while retaining the option of extra floor space by folding it away. A simple wooden coffee table is easy to construct and folding legs can allow you to stash it away--perhaps behind the couch--when you don't need it. Start with good quality wood and hardware for the sturdiest table possible. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Cut the 2 by 2-inch lumber into two 5-foot-8-inch pieces, two 17-inch pieces and four 16-inch pieces with a hand or power saw. The 16-inch pieces will be the legs, so if you want a taller or shorter table, adjust their length.

2

Form a rectangle with the 5-foot-8-inch lengths for the top and bottom and the 17-inch pieces for the sides, with total outside dimensions of 5-foot-8 by 20 inches (2 by 2 lumber is actually 1 1/2 by 1 1/2).

3

Screw this rectangle together by drilling a 1/8-inch hole for each screw to avoid splitting the wood, then driving screws in with a Phillips head bit on your drill or power driver.

4

Lay a 2 by 6-foot piece of plywood over the top of your rectangle so there is 2 inches of overhang on each side. Screw the plywood onto the frame securely, then flip the tabletop over so your frame pieces face up.

5

Place one leg in each corner, inside the frame, leaving about 1/2 inch of space between the leg and the short end of the frame to allow it to swing closed easily. Using 1/2-inch wood screws, attach a hinge on the side of each leg that faces toward the center of the table's long side. All four legs should be able to fold inward without overlapping.

6

Fold the legs out into their open positions and align a sliding bolt lock (the metal locks often used on bathroom stall doors) along the long side of the frame so the bolt will slide into the leg when it is locked. Mark where the bolt will hit the leg, then remove the lock and drill a hole for it. Discard the loop the bolt would slide into if you were locking two surfaces on the same plane. Attach the lock to the wood using the screws that came with it. When you want to use the table, unfold the legs and slide the bolts into place to keep the legs open.

7

Sand any rough edges and paint the table as desired.

What Are the Sizes of Folding Tables?

Folding tables, dating back to 1686, according to Colonial Furniture in America, have long served a very useful function in daily lives, right up through today. When a permanent table does not fit within the confines of a room, or a need is only temporary, a folding table fits the bill. Folding tables are available in many shapes and sizes. Does this Spark an idea?

Square Tables

Card tables are often associated with folding tables since families often own one. Traditionally used for just what the name implies, playing cards, it is often set up for a game of four-handed bridge. Card tables are usually 36-inches square by 29-inches high but square folding tables can also be found at 42 inches

Rectangular Tables

Rectangular folding tables vary from a small 24-inch by 48-inch table usually used for crafts to standards of 30 inches by 60 inches, 30 inches by 72 inches and the 30-inch by 96-inch size that is found in cafeterias across the country.

Round Tables

Round folding tables are often used at banquets and range in size from 42 inches to 48 inches as well as 60 inches and normally top out at 72 inches in diameter.

Trapezoid Tables

Trapezoid-shaped tables are available in 24-inch by 24-inch by 48-inch and also 30-inch by 30-inch by 60-inch sizes.

Horseshoe Tables

Horseshoe-shaped folding tables are often used for trade shows and in situations where one person is demonstrating or teaching a technique. They are also used for playing cards where the dealer stands in the cutout of the table. They are available in 48-inch by 72-inch as well as 48-inch by 96-inch and 60-inch by 66-inch sizes.

Octagon Tables

Octagon folding tables are readily found measuring 48 inches and are a good use of space when other shapes will take up too much room.

How to Install Folding Metal Legs

Having a folding table on hand may be very useful for family get-togethers, holiday meals, outdoor barbecues, wedding parties and other functions. When the party is over, the metal legs are folded up, enabling the table to be stored more unobtrusively. Instead of purchasing a complete table, folding metal legs can be purchased that can be used to make a folding table out of one you have on hand. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Turn over the table top material -- such as plywood, medium-density fiber board or other product -- so that the side you plan on using as the top of the table is facing down. Place a moving pad or blanket under the table top to protect the finish, if desired.

2

Position the folding table legs near the end of one side of the table top with the folding mechanism facing inward. Ensure the bottoms of the legs are facing up. Make a pencil mark through each mounting hole in the table leg brackets onto the underside of the table top surface. Remove the legs from the table top temporarily.

3

Drill a pilot hole for the table leg mounting screws through each pencil mark with a 1/8-inch drill bit and a power drill. Drill the hole to a depth no more than one-third the thickness of the table top material.

4

Position the table legs back onto the table top and line up the mounting holes. Secure the table legs to the top with wood screws that are at least inch less in length than the thickness of the table top material. Tighten the screws with a Phillips screwdriver.

5

Unfold the locking arms of the table legs and ensure they are locked in position. Make pilot holes into the table top using the mounting holes in the locking arms as a template. Secure the locking arms to the table top with wood screws in the same fashion as the table legs.

6

Repeat the procedure to install the folding table legs on the opposite side of the table top. Ensure the locking arms on the folding legs are in the locked position and turn the table upright to use it. Slide the locking mechanisms on the lock arms and fold the table legs downward to store the table.

How to Maintain a Metal Fire Pit Patio Table

Relative newcomers in the outdoor furniture world, fire pit tables are quite versatile. During the day, when it is bright and warm, you can use the fire pit table as a regular patio table. At night, when you need extra warmth and light, simply remove the cover and light a gas or propane fire in the table's center. To keep your fire pit table working its best, and for fire safety, clean and maintain it after every three uses and before you light it for the first fire of the season. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Remove the gas logs and set them aside.

2

Inspect the burners for any debris that could block airflow. The gas flow channels in the burners may be quite small and dark. It may be helpful to use a flashlight for the best view. While the burners on your kitchen stove may become clogged with grease and food debris, burners in your outdoor fire pit may become clogged with spider webs, wasps' nests, dirt, leaves or dried grass.

3

Remove any debris with a soft brush. Use back and forth motions to brush gently but thoroughly until all debris has been removed. For particularly stubborn debris stuck in tiny gas flow channels, use a toothpick to dislodge the debris.

4

Spray the table with all-purpose cleaner. Use a cleaning cloth to wipe down the entire table, including the tabletop, fire bowl and table legs.

5

Wipe off the gas logs, gently, with a damp cleaning cloth. Replace them in the fire bowl.

How to Make a Fire Bowl

Fire bowls are great patio decorations, but even the lower end models are pretty pricey and the higher-end models are 10 times as expensive. For less money than the lower quality models, you can build your own top-notch fire bowl. Build yourself a fire bowl with unique design--perhaps one in which the fire bowl rests in a pool of refreshing blue water. Your guests will be blown away by this impressively imaginative design that they can't run out and buy because it was homemade. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Glue the solid 20-inch metal bar vertically to the center of the flat piece of sheet metal using Gorilla Glue. Hold the bond in place and let the Gorilla Glue dry.

2

Flip the ceramic cooking bowl upside down. Apply Gorilla Glue to the top of the 20-inch solid metal bar and place it on the center of the bottom of the ceramic cooking bowl. Hold the connection in place and let the Gorilla Glue dry.

3

Place Gorilla Glue on the bottom of the sheet metal, then set the sheet metal in the center of the ceramic planter. Let the Gorilla Glue dry. The lip of the ceramic cooking bowl should be level with the top of the ceramic planter.

4

Cover the bottom of the ceramic planter with polished rocks. Fill the ceramic planter half way with water, then add 10 drops of blue food coloring. This will make the water a noticeable, refreshing blue. For a deeper blue, add more food coloring. Resume filling the ceramic planter with water up to the top. Stopping the water flow at the halfway point before adding the food coloring will allow the food coloring to mix automatically when you resume filling the ceramic planter. Make sure the water does not overflow into the ceramic cooking bowl as this will be where you will light your fire.

How to Cut Firewood on a Table Saw

Firewood is very common in the winter months to help heat houses. While it is chopped off trees and cut down in size, it is almost always necessary to cut it even smaller. There are many available options when cutting firewood, including a table saw. A table saw has a blade coming up from the table and is often used for rip cuts on lumber. Cutting firewood with a table saw is no different than cutting anything else on a table saw and can be completed rather easily. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure the first piece of firewood with a tape measure and mark with a black marker where the cut will need to be made. Set the piece of firewood on the table saw and line it up next to the blade.

2

Adjust the blade so it is high enough to cut through the entire piece of firewood. Turn the knob on the front of the table saw to move the blade up and down until it is a little higher than the height of the firewood.

3

Set a speed square down on the saw and line it up with the blade to make sure the blade is square. Push it up against the blade and check to verify that there is no gap between the square and the blade.

4

Line the mark on the firewood up with the blade on the saw. Turn on the saw and begin sliding the firewood through the blade at the desired mark. Push the blade through with the blade guard located on the end of the table saw behind the piece of wood.

5

Push through until the entire piece has been cut and measure to make sure the proper cut was made. Measure the second piece of firewood and repeat the same process until all of the cuts have been made.

Poplar Wood Vs. Maple Wood

Poplar and maple are both relatively light-colored hardwoods often used to make furniture or sold as dimensional lumber. Several species of each may be labeled as simply "poplar" or "maple," each having its own appearance, density and working characteristics. In the right projects, these woods are strong, durable and attractive. Does this Spark an idea?

Acer Rubrum

Also known as red maple, scarlet maples, water maple or soft maple, this North American native has white sapwood and light brown heartwood with a gray, green or purple tinge. The grain is usually straight, but wavy grain is sometimes seen. This unusually-figured maple is often sold as "curly" or "tiger" maple. Acer rubrum hardwood is difficult to treat with preservatives, but does not resist decay or insects. This wood has a hardness rating of about 950 on the Janka scale, turns, planes and bores well, and can be difficult to sand or bend. Use Acer rubrum in furniture, veneers, interior construction, dowels and cabinetry.

Acer Nigrum

Called hard maple, black maple, sugar maple and rock maple, this wood is considerably harder than Acer rubrum, scoring an 1180 on the Janka scale. Acer nigrum has white sapwood with a reddish tone and light reddish brown heartwood. Like Acer rubrum, this maple usually has straight grain, but may have wavy or curly grain. Some Acer nigrum specimens have a "bird's eye" or "fiddleback" grain figure, which is prized for veneers and other surface work. This wood resists impregnation, has a high bending strength and is resistant to wear and tear. Use hard maple to make drum sticks, bowling pins, sturdy furniture, veneers, hardwood flooring, cabinetry and musical instruments.

Liriodendron Tulipifera

This North American tree is not a true poplar, but is often called poplar, popple, yellow poplar, tulip poplar or white poplar. It may also be sold as American tulipwood or whitewood. Old growth sapwood is white to cream, while heartwood is pale olive, clear yellow, tan, brown or greenish brown. Tulip poplar heartwood is often streaked with interesting dark green, blue, black or purple marks. The wood is straight grained, dimensionally stable and easy to work. It rates only about a 540 on the Janka hardness scale, and works best in decorative uses, joinery, veneer, moldings and furniture.

Populus Balsamifera

Often sold simply as poplar, Populus balsamifera may also be called balsam poplar, California poplar, balm of Gilead, cottonwood and Tacamahac poplar. This true popular grows in both eastern Europe and much of North America. It has whitish sapwood that merges into light brown to grayish heartwood with no distinct margin. The wood is straight grained, with occasional wavy or fiddleback figures similar to those of maple. Balsam poplar is much softer than maple, however, rating only about a 300 on the Janka scale, similar to softwoods. Use balsam poplar in low-wear situations.

How to Decorate a Tulip Vase

Tulips add a bright springtime touch to any room, especially when you want some extra color and verve. However, a dull vase can take away from the flowers' appeal, so creative vase decor is essential to ensuring you have a well-rounded table centerpiece or shelf decor. With a few craft items and a little patience, you can give your lovely tulips the container they deserve. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Steps

1

Paint a delicate design onto the face, bottom or top of the vase, keeping in mind that a minimalistic touch will best complement the shiny objects you will affix later. Consider green grass for the bottom, blue clouds for the top, or brightly colored wisps of curly-ques across the middle of the vase.

2

Apply glue along the top of the vase near the rim no thicker than the circumference of the rhinestones.

3

Affix rhinestones on top of the glue to bedazzle the spout from which the tulips will emerge.

4

Select one rhinestone to stand out from the rest, and glue it on the face of the vase to enhance the design you painted.

5

Cut the ribbon to the same length as the bottom circumference of the vase.

6

Glue the ribbon along the bottom to give the illusion of grass.

7

Allow paint and glue to dry overnight.

8

Pour no more than two inches of marbles into the bottom of the vase.

9

Place tulips inside the vase carefully one by one. Add enough water to submerge the marbles to keep your tulips fresh and healthy.

How to Make My Kitchen Look Like a Bistro

Bistros are small European-inspired cafes. Creating this type of ambiance in your own home will give it a Mediterranean, French Country or Tuscany-style atmosphere. This type of kitchen embraces the casual spirit of a country kitchen and invites your guests to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Place a decorative wooden or pottery bowl in the center of your kitchen island or to use as a centerpiece on your table. Fill it with faux or real fruit and vegetables, such as bunches of grapes or artichokes.

2

Decide on a theme for your bistro kitchen; some bistros have pictures of a chubby chef, checkered fabrics and roosters, while others may focus on a theme such as coffee. Set decor around the room to enhance the theme.

3

Utilize colorful tile with grape or fruit patterns on it to decorate your kitchen back splash or countertops.

4

Hang pictures on the walls that depict different types of cheeses, wines and fruit or grapevines to enhance the bistro dcor.

5

Place a wrought-iron table and chairs in the dining area of your kitchen. Be sure to utilize seat cushions that have bold, contrasting colors, such as red, black and white, or warm color combinations, such as coral, gold and sage green. You can use a wrought-iron baker's rack or tea carts to enhance the decor.

6

Hang cafe-style curtains on your windows to create the intimate atmosphere of a bistro. Cafe curtains shield the lower portion of a window from prying eyes and give the room a European flair.

How to Make a Homemade Wood Bar Table

Adding character and style to a basement or main floor bar or recreation room can be simple and economical. Building a square, rustic wood bar table is one way to transcend the ordinary and create a whole new ambiance. While the construction and design is simple, the infrastructure must be well thought out and sturdy. No matter what we've seen in old western bar room brawls, real bar tables should never break into pieces when a lone desperado stumbles against it. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Build the rough table top. Cut the hardwood planks to length. Run each of the glue joint edges through the joiner. Glue and clamp the rough table top together, allowing ample time for the glue to dry and joints to cure.

2

Finish cutting the table top to size, trimming all four edges to a smooth, straight line.

3

Sand all six surfaces to an 80 grit smoothness.

4

Adjust the skill saw blade to 1/8 inch cut depth. Drag the spinning saw blade gently across the top surface in a gradual side to side motion. The spinning blade should be parallel to the wood grain; this process will create and ancient, scrub planed or well used look.

5

Sand the top surface again to an 80 grit smoothness and then finish sand the entire top to at least a 220 grit smoothness.

6

Build the table skirt out of the 1 inch hardwood plank material. The table skirt should be 3 inches smaller than the finished perimeter of the table top. Miter cut the skirt planks.

7

Pre-drill four holes near the miter joint in a square pattern. The holes should be 2 inches apart. When drilling the holes, first drill a 3/16 inch in diameter pilot hole all the way through, and then a inch diameter hole inch deep. The two holes aligned with the miter joint provide for the skirt frame attachment while the other two are for attaching the skirt frame to the table legs. Glue the mitered joints and screw the skirt planks together with 3-inch grabber screws.

8

Cut the 4 inch by 4 inch table legs to length. Glue and screw the table legs to the table skit frame. You should have four 3-inch grabber screws attaching the table legs to the table skirt.

9

Fill the inch deep screw holes with inch hard wood dowels. Fill the holes with wood glue and tap in inch dowels cut to extend inch beyond the surface of the skirt frame.

10

Sand the skirt frame, dowels and table legs to a 40 grit smoothness. Apply uneven pressure to the surface, edges and dowels to mimic the scrub planed look of the table top. Gradually prepare the surfaces for stain and finish by sanding the surface with 80, 120 and 220 grit sand paper.

11

Pre-drill two angled pilot holes on each of the table legs. The pilot holes should be drilled 2 inches down from the inside edges with a 3/16 inch drill bit. The angled pilot holes should be about 60 degrees.

12

Center the table top on the legs and screw the top to the sub frame with 3-inch grabber screws.

13

Apply the wood stain and lacquer.

Outdoor Fire Pit Ideas

An outdoor fire pit provides a focal point in a back yard and adds drama to the surrounding area. Whether hosting a card game, cookout, family dinner or party, homeowners will find that a fire pit allows them to entertain guests comfortably outdoors even on the coldest of nights. You and your guests can snuggle up around the fire roasting marshmallows, or place a metal grate over it and enjoy homemade barbecue. Does this Spark an idea?

Decorative Fire Pit Table

Many modern fire pits feature a table-like rim around the edges or are built into decorative tables that serve a dual purpose, allowing people to cook food over the grate and place their crockery on the edges. Often sold as a part of a patio furniture set, decorative fire pit tables come in a variety of materials including slate, tiled mosaic, river rock, bronze and copper, allowing homeowners to choose one that blends with the surrounding outdoor decor.

Stone Fire Pit

A stone or camp fire pit is a traditional fire pit made by digging a shallow round trench over the selected spot of non-flammable gravel, sand or soil, and surrounding it with bricks, stones or rocks to prevent contained logs from rolling out. Although not attractive, this fire pit is inexpensive and adds rustic charm to the area, adding to the ambiance on a cold night. Stack wide stones over one another to create columns that support a metal grate if you want to cook dinner under the stars. They are temporary and easy to remove.

Permanent Block Fire Pit

Use blocks to create a temporary or permanent fire pit in your back yard. A temporary block fire pit is similar to a stone fire pit, only with cinder blocks or bricks surrounding the edges. A permanent in-ground structure requires more elbow grease, but will serve you for many years. Use cast concrete blocks molded to resemble stones with flat tops and bases that make them easier to stack. Place blocks over the desired spot to form a circle as wide as you want the fire pit. Remove the blocks and dig a 1-foot-deep circular trench. Dig another 6 inches around the edges of the circular trench, as wide as a block, and spread a layer of drainage gravel over the base. Lay a row of blocks over the gravel adjacent to one another. Apply masonry adhesive over the blocks with a caulking gun before firmly placing subsequent rows of blocks over them until you have reached the desired height. Pour gravel inside.

Outdoor Chiminea

A chiminea fire pit is structure with a bulbous base, a door that holds the fire and a long, chimney-like neck. These come in a variety of shapes, sizes, designs and materials including traditional clay, modern cast aluminum, iron and copper. While some feature "legs" made of the same material as the body, others have decorative metal stands that hold them.

Frugal Rustic Decorating Tips

Decorating your home with a rustic design on a frugal budget is simple. A rustic decor scheme is made to look relaxed, comfortable and thrown together. Incorporate items you already own with timeworn wood and metal pieces. Pull your antique collection out of the closet and use it to give your home a rustic, country-inspired flair.

Wicker Baskets

Wicker baskets will give your home a rustic touch without costing a fortune. In the bathroom, display rolled earth-hued towels in wicker baskets rather than on shelves. Display potted plants in woven baskets in the kitchen and living room. Place a wicker basket on a bedroom dresser to store items such as keys, sunglasses and wallets. Fill a wicker basket with dried flowers for a country-inspired look and use it to enhance any room.

Wrought Iron Items

Wrought iron items will instantly infuse your home with a rustic style. Use secondhand items and flea market finds to save money. Create a country-inspired kitchen tablescape with a wrought iron napkin holder and napkin rings. Hang bathroom towels from wrought iron racks and a shower curtain from wrought iron hooks. Enhance a deck, patio or porch with a vintage wrought iron bistro table and chair set; rust will give the set added rustic charm.

Country Fabrics

Use fabric scraps to transform home items from plain to rustic and country inspired. Use red, pink, blue, yellow or green gingham fabric to cover a white lamp shade. Sew red bandannas together to make curtains, tablecloths or place mats. Use a vintage cowboy or wildlife-inspired scarf as a side table or night stand covering.

Wood Touches

Inexpensive wood touches will infuse your home with a rustic look. Place nature images, such as birds, lakes and rolling fields in rough-hewn wood frames. Use old wood crates to store magazines, or turn them upside down to form plant stands. Use a vintage wood window frame to display photographs or artwork. Paint a worn wood chair rust red for a country Americana look; enhance the seat with a red, white and blue cushion.

DIY: Outdoor Fire Pit Glass

Fire pits are used as decorative pieces of patio furniture. People like to watch a contained fire outside, but a problem with most fire pits is that the flame is concealed by the pit's body. Making a glass fire pit will remedy that problem, allowing you to see more of the fire and even add additional decoration throughout the pit's body. Making your own glass fire pit allows you make a custom design to add charm. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Flip the glass tray upside down. Apply waterproof polyurethane glue to one end of each of the three 18-inch solid metal bars and stick them vertically to the bottom of the glass tray. Position the bars in equal distances between each other. The bars will be the legs of your glass fire pit. Allow the polyurethane glue to dry.

2

Flip the glass tray over and stand it on its legs. Check that the legs are firmly bonded with the glass tray. Set an artificial rose in the center of the tray and place a glass bowl upside-down over it to see how well the rose fits. Clip the stem of the rose as needed so it fits within the bowl, using scissors. Remove the bowl and apply polyurethane glue to the rim of the bowl, then place the bowl upside-down over the rose in the center of the tray. Let the glue dry.

3

Apply polyurethane glue to the bottom of the other glass bowl and set it directly on top of the upside-down bowl you glued over the rose. This top bowl is the fire bowl.

4

Shake a gel fuel canister well and place it in your glass fire bowl. Remove the label, then remove the lid and light it with a long match or barbecue lighter.

The Decorating Ideas for a Paris-Themed Kitchen

A Parisian-inspired kitchen captures the sights of the city. From the colors to the window treatments, the details create the feeling of Paris. While certain concepts are distinctly French, the theme is open to interpretation to allow you to customize the look. Whether you borrow a few basic style concepts or go all-out with the classic symbols of the city, your kitchen gets the look of a French cafe. Does this Spark an idea?

Window Coverings

The awning-style window covering works well in a Paris-themed kitchen. Contact a local seamstress or window covering company to get custom interior awnings made for your windows. To make a simple awning yourself, use a cafe curtain rod that mounts flush to the wall and a curtain rod with at least a 6-inch return. Cut a piece of fabric an inch wider than your rods. Hem the edges to create a clean line. Sew a rod pocket at the top and bottom of the fabric. Mount the cafe rod at the top of the window, and place the rod through one of the pockets on the fabric. Attach the other curtain rod low enough to keep the fabric taut. Insert the lower curtain rod through the remaining rod pocket.

Furniture

A bistro-style table and chair set makes sense in a Parisian kitchen. The sets are available in materials like iron, wicker and wood. The sets typically feature a small, round table with enough room for two, three or four people. Wood furniture and cabinets painted in cream or black also fits the theme. Distressing on the finishing of the wood pieces helps to create a casual, older French look. Curved lines also fit the theme.

Materials

Tile on the walls in the form of a backsplash or decorative display create the feeling of Paris. Neutral colors, earthy materials and blue patterned tiles work well. Natural stone countertops tie in the feeling of Paris for your work areas. Play up existing exposed beams in the kitchen, or add rich-colored wood beams on the ceiling. Metal on cabinet handles, range hoods and lighting fixtures also work to create varied textures within the space while maintaining the Parisian style.

Wall Art

Options for wall art vary, depending on how you want to infuse Paris into the decor. Photos or paintings of landmarks in Paris create a direct correlation to the theme. To drive a cafe theme, focus on art related to coffee drinks, wine or French-style food. Another option is to hang a chalkboard that resembles the boards used at French cafes to display the menu. If you don't want to mess with the chalkboard, print a French menu and frame it for your wall. Wall sconces flanking artwork also work for the theme.

Ideas for Creative Table Centerpieces to Make at Home

Creating your own table centerpiece at home allows for an endless variety of styles, materials and colors. Flowers, fruit, toys or stones, you can use almost anything. Any artistic piece can work as a centerpiece, as long as it is sturdy enough to stand and small enough to sit in the middle of the table without jutting into the place settings.

Cheerful Balloons

You don't need a helium tank to create a cheerful table centerpiece with balloons that float above the table. A 2-inch thick and 16-inch tall wooden dowel sticking up from a small plant pot provides a base for the cheerful design. Any paint color can cover the pot and dowel for a fancy touch. Try glossy pink for a romantic theme or bright orange for a children's theme. Colorful round balloons with their mouths taped to the dowel form a tall "topiary" shape bursting from the plant pot.

Fancy Tree

Craft foam shapes are popular materials to use in creating a table centerpiece. A basic foam cone, also known as a foam tree, looks like a fancy tree decoration no matter what you chose as a covering material. Try strands of glittering red and green beads glued tightly around a 12-inch foam cone for a sophisticated Christmas tree for the holiday table. Assorted silk flowers glued around a 24-inch foam cone form a fancy tree centerpiece for a spring-themed event.

Rustic Pumpkin

Instead of using a vase for your creative centerpiece, go with an earthy theme and use a scooped-out pumpkin. Any large pumpkin can become a rustic vase if you cut away the top and remove the seeds. A flared bouquet of dried wheat, sunflowers and pussy willow branches creates a sense of warmth and texture as it bursts up from the top of the pumpkin vase.

Simple Spring

A clear vase, lemons and flowers are all you need to create a simple and elegant spring-themed centerpiece. A wide glass vase, 12 to 16 inches tall, provides the base for the easy design. Thick slices of lemon and cold water fill the vase three-quarters full to add weight and color to the centerpiece. A bouquet consisting of three pink tulips on the outside and a yellow tulip in the center sticks up from the vase to create a splash of soft color.

Sparkling Sand

Seashells and sand are low-cost materials--possibly even free--for a creative table centerpiece. A large, clear glass vase and clear glitter turn the simple beach materials into a sparkling decoration with a sophisticated touch. White sand mixed with clear glitter fills the lower fifth of the vase, followed by a layer of seashells. Alternating layers of the glitter sand and seashells fill the vase to the top to produce an elegant centerpiece with a hint of sparkle.

How to Make a Tulip Wedding Bouquet

Flowers are an essential component to most weddings, as they are used in the decorations of the church and reception, as well as in the bridal bouquet. One of the more versatile and flowers to use in a wedding bouquet are tulips. Tulips are ideal for those wanting attractive flowers on a modest budget. Create a simple, yet elegant tulip wedding bouquet yourself, using decorating ribbon.

Instructions

1

Lay out freshly cut tulips you have selected for the bouquet on the counter or table in front of you. The amount of tulips you will use will depends on the size of the bouquet.

2

Place three tulips in your hand and arrange them so they are all at the same height.

3

Bind the flowers together at the stems using floral tape just below the tulip heads.

4

Add enough tulips around the three tied tulips to create a ring around them. Arrange them so that they are slightly lower in height than the original three and tie all the flowers together with more floral tape.

5

Continue to add more rings of flowers until the tulip bouquet has reached your desired size.

6

Wrap a silk or satin ribbon tightly around the stems, leaving about 1 inch of green stem showing at the bottom. Choose ribbon based on your wedding colors.

How to Give Your Kitchen a French Bistro Theme

Transform the kitchen into a welcoming haven of French style with simple decorative choices like classic black-and-white checker patterns, pastoral artwork, decorative (yet functional) foods and designated food and beverage stations. It's relatively easy to find French-inspired decorative items at discount department stores to give your kitchen an authentic bistro theme. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Paint the kitchen walls a shade of deep red or wine, like burgundy or medium purple. If you want to use lighter hues, opt for a rich peachy brown or light golden brown similar to a white wine. Or, paint an accent wall in a classic bistro black and white checkered pattern.

2

Tile the floors or counters to coordinate with the walls. For instance, install black and white tiles to go with red walls, or use aubergine tiles to coordinate with tan or champagne-colored walls.

3

Add bistro-style chairs and a table to the most prominent corner of the space in wrought iron or light colored wood. Place a small flower arrangement of roses in the center of the table to enhance the theme. Or create an edible centerpiece by filling a bread basket with French pastries or baguettes.

4

Display wine in a case or rack near the bistro table, or place bottles of wine in decorative holders on the kitchen counter closest to the table so you can easily serve your guests.

5

Hang prints of the French countryside or black and white prints of people in a French bistro. House the prints in sophisticated gold or silver or plain black to match the classic bistro theme.

6

Set up a coffee machine in another corner of the room on a small table or counter. Hang decorative mugs on hooks around the coffee machine, or place them on tables nearby.

7

Add kitchen rugs and dish cloths to complete the bistro theme. For instance, dish towels embroidered with words like "Voila" or "Bon Appetit" can brighten up the kitchen space, along with dark red or black and white area rugs for the front of the refrigerator, sink or underneath the bistro table.

How to Create a French Country Garden

When we turn our minds to the French countryside, we often think of picturesque landscapes and quaint gardens. Indeed, many modern gardeners take their inspiration from the charming and romantic garden spaces of France. Whether you would like to create a cozy garden atmosphere in a space as small as a patio or as large as your entire backyard, you too can create a French country garden. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Select your French country garden decoration before beginning to plant. A few elements that can add to the atmosphere of your cozy garden space might include a hand-painted wall mural, garden statues, birdbaths, fountains or stone pathways to create old world charm. When setting paths, make sure they wind and weave, and are not set in a straight line. Remember that French country gardens use stones, sculptures and plants to fill every nook and cranny to create a cozy and romantic space.

2

Choose your vine plants first, carefully planning how and where you would like them to grow. Consider a trellised arch-way covered in climbing roses, standard ivy to cover large walls or fences and a covered porch to hold your grapevine. Remember that while French country gardens fill almost every space with plants, they are also well kept. Vine plants should be well maintained, and not allowed to take over the garden.

3

Consider planting a small fruit orchard or row of nut-bearing trees if you have the space, a popular feature in classic French country gardens. Apple, cherry, plum and walnut are all nice choices for your garden space.

4

Fill flower beds with herbs and medicinal plants that you can use in your kitchen, such as mint, thyme, rosemary, chamomile and more. If you have enough room, a small vegetable garden is another common feature in a French country garden.

5

Incorporate geraniums, petunias and roses into your space, popular and timeless flowers found in almost every French country garden. You can plant these flowers in window boxes and terra cotta pots to fill your remaining spaces and add color to your garden.

6

Add the final touch to your garden, a small bistro table and chairs for enjoying an afternoon tea in your beautiful garden.

Are Dining Rooms Needed?

Dining rooms aren't needed. Some home buyers wouldn't consider a house without a dining room, and others wish they could change the dining room they have into another type of space. Depending upon how you would normally use a dining room, there are alternate ideas that will work equally as well. Does this Spark an idea?

Kitchen

Ask any busy family how often they share a meal at the dining room table, and you may be surprised to learn that the bulk of their meals are taken at the kitchen table, breakfast bar or even the kitchen island. For many people, it simply makes more sense to eat near the preparation and cleanup area. Dining rooms are often reserved for more formal meals rather than day-to-day living.

Living Room

Even if you have a galley kitchen with no room for a table or breakfast bar, a living room can easily be transformed into a dining area. A small, fold-down table can double as an occasional table and dining surface. Comfortable pillows can be scattered around a coffee table for casual meals, and small decorative tables can act as end tables and personal trays.

Entertaining

Entertaining is less about the "place" and more about the atmosphere you set. Lay food and drink out on kitchen counters, drop-leaf side tables and hallway consoles. Spread food and drink throughout the house to encourage people to move and mingle. Create an ambiance with soft lighting and music playing in the background. Provide plenty of seating, whether it is in the form of traditional seating or card chairs and throw pillows. The idea behind entertaining is to make everyone feel comfortable, and you can do that with or without a dining room.

Outdoor Space

Whether you're at home alone or entertaining friends and family, take advantage of any outdoor space you have. A patio, porch or balcony can each add square footage to your home and provide a nice spot to enjoy a meal. Invest in a small patio set or bistro table, and use the great outdoors as your dining room.

How to Learn Crochet Basics: Make a Table Runner

Table runners, for those who don't know, are like scarves for your table. Simple and easy as a scarf, but usually they're made with cotton yarn and lace techniques. This doesn't have to be the case- in fact, as long as it fits your table, you can use any sort of stitch or yarn that you choose. Don't let the patterns of old box you in- let your creative juices flow!!

Instructions

1




Just like scarves, table-runners have endless options and variations. You can use solid stitch patterns, or lace patterns. You can use one color, or different colors in stripes. With crochet, you can also do what's called "granny-squares" and connect them with contrasting (or coordinating yarn) depending on the look you are going for. Granny squares can be done in one or many colors, leaving plenty of options.

2




Many table runners are basically long-doilies, or filet crochet. As you look at the many variations, you will get your own ideas, and you will be inspired by the many out there. Some are quite simple, and others are very ornate...this all depends on your skill-set and time constraints.

3




You can make a table-runner by crocheting the length, and then adding each row to make it as thick as you want. You can also use a doily pattern, and attach these together, making a long "scarf" of doilies. Your imagination is the limit. I would recommend using cotton yarn, or a cotton-wool blend yarn, or an acrylic and cotton blend yarn for durability. Another way to make a crochet table-runner is to chain the required for your pattern, and then work in the pattern until it is long enough. You can do stripes in this way too. There are so many options, I'd be here forever writing out the variations that you can use to make a crochet table-runner.

4




For a simply constructed table-runner, start with a foundation chain, or foundation-less single crochet (fsc) for as long as you want your table runner to be. Now change colors, leaving a tail as long as you want the fringe to be (usually about 7" long). Keep going in this way for as long as you want (usually you will want to have a table runner that is about 8-12 inches wide. Each row that you create will make your table runner wider.

How to Make Your Own Fire Department Party Decorations

Every little boy dreams of growing up to be a firefighter. Creating a fun, exciting fire department party is one way to make his dreams come true. With a little creativity and a lot of streamers, parents can transform their house into a fire station. And if you have a friend with a Dalmatian, then you can have the little dog, too. It will be a great memory for your son and all of his friends. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Decorate the house as if it's on fire. Using the red, yellow and orange tissue, cut out flames and tape them to the windows so the kids can see them as they enter the front of the house. Hang the red, yellow and orange streamers from the top of doorways to make them feel like they're walking through the fire.

2

Give each kid a plastic firefighter hat to wear during the party. For an activity, give each child a fire-truck picture to color and then hang them on the wall, like in a garage.

3

Decorate the table as a Dalmation. Using a white plastic tablecloth, draw big black dots on it like spots on a dog. Use alternating black and white plates, cups, utensils and napkins to further the theme.

4

For a fun twist on a classic game, play pin the fire hose on the fire truck. Draw a fire truck on a piece of poster board, leaving off the water hose. Blindfold each child, spin her in a circle, and try to get her to pin the hose in the right place.

Do Flower Arrangements All Have to Be Alike to Decorate 5 Tables in the Same Room?

It may be easier to decorate five tables with the same flower arrangements, but it's not required. By tying together similar elements of the design, rather than matching the design itself, you can create five different designs for your tables that provide a unified and cohesive table display in the room. Does this Spark an idea?

Color

One unifying element of floral arrangement is color. A theme color may be found in the vase, flowers or accent pieces in the floral arrangement. For example, if your colors for your event are black and white, a classic combination, keep all the vases black, but vary the shapes -- tall, square, tulip or cylinder. Use all white flowers in each container but vary use different species, such as gardenia, tulips, roses or freesia.

Container

A common container can unify a floral arrangement. The containers may differ slightly, provided the overall shape and character of the containers match. For example, a garden party might rely on a tea pot as the container for the floral arrangement. Although you could use the same tea pot for each design, you could also vary the types, colors or patterns of the tea pots and still achieves a cohesive design..

Flowers

Using the same types of flower in the floral arrangements gives you a cohesive design. The same number of flowers is not required. Mix it up with a line of bud vases holding a single rose down the center of one rectangular table, and a dozen roses in a vase on another, round table. Vary the design by including the same flowers in several smaller vases and grouping them together to give the appearance of one large vase.

Accent Piece

An accent piece can unify several different floral designs, and can vary from a tiara to a fleur-de-lis to a pumpkin. Accent pieces may serve as the container for the arrangement -- for example, a hollowed-out pumpkin as the vase -- or you can integrate accents such as a fleur-de-lis, crystals or beads into the floral arrangement. Placing lemon slices on the bottom of each glass vase, or wrapping a big turquoise bow on the front of each, can tie together several similar designs.

How Are Lamps Identified?

Lamps are identified by their style or function. There are table lamps, floor lamps, accent lamps, buffet lamps and wall lamps. Lamps are a necessity of modern life, but they are also a statement of style, from the sleek Tiffany lamp with its stained-glass shade to the traditional porcelain urn lamp with a silk shade and finial. Does this Spark an idea?

Table Lamps

Table lamps are used to provide lighting at table height. Table lamps come in every possible finish and can be topped with any kind of shade, from the contemporary drum to the traditional octagonal bell. Table lamps are identified by their bases, and the names are descriptive of the look. Tulip base, candlestick base and urn base are a few of the base styles.

Floor Lamps

Floor lamps have a very tall base and are on pedestals meant to stand on the floor. When placed behind a chair, floor lamps provide overhead light for reading or ambience. There are many kinds of floor lamps. Torchieres, for example, direct light up onto the ceiling. Floor lamps for reading curve downward to cast a beam of light from above.

Accent Lamps

Accent lamps are the smallest type of lamp and also come in many different styles. These are meant to provide a spot of light on a mantel, bookshelf or countertop. Some of them are stained glass or even salt crystal, while others are a miniature version of a table lamp with the traditional,yet smaller-scale shade.

Buffet Lamps

Buffet lamps have a tall base and are usually displayed in pairs flanking art work or a mirror. The bases of buffet lamps are typically quite slender and the shades tend to be smaller than those of table lamps. These lamps are meant to cast light on a buffet, sideboard or even an entryway table.

Wall Lamps

Wall lamps are wired directly to the wall. A classic style is the the swing-arm lamp, which can be moved around to illuminate from different angles. Luminaires, on the other hand, have a curving shade open at the top and bottom to cast light up and down the wall. Wall lamps are often mounted in pairs on either side of a sofa or bed.

Campfire Centerpiece Crafts

Whether you're the leader of a Tiger Cub Scout den or teaching an elementary school art class, you'll spend a lot of time planning craft activities for your young charges. Most young children love the idea of a campfire (particularly with hot dogs and s'mores cooking over it!), and projects oriented around the idea of a roaring fire on a cold night will yield many creative responses.

Old-Fashioned Campfire

Collect some cardboard toilet-paper or paper-towel rolls as your logs, and cut flaming shapes out of brown, yellow, orange and red construction paper or have the older kids cut them. Place the logs and paper flames on a round piece of black card stock or laminated construction paper to give your piece some stability. Glue the logs in place. Fold the leaping flames near the bottom so that they can "stand" and roar through the wood, then glue them to the logs.

Camping on the Beach

Swap out the black base for a tan one, and add some sea shells. Glue the sea shells in between the logs, and let the older kids cut out crabs, starfish, jellyfish and other creatures that lurk near the edge of the water. Place the cut-out sea animals on the base of the centerpiece. Stack the logs, erect the fire, spread some white multipurpose glue on the ends of the logs and strew some sand on the glue.

Cooking over the Campfire

Pick up some plastic candy buckets the week after Halloween the kind without the jack-o-lantern's mask. Make a frame with some scrap lumber and a piece of wire from a clothes hanger to dangle the bucket over the fire. Fill the pot with cotton balls to make it look like a frothy witch's concoction, or add blue craft grass to give the look of boiling water.

S'Mores Utensils

To make s'mores, even the youngest camper knows that you need graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallows. Scatter some miniature chocolate bars and cardboard pieces colored to look like graham crackers around the campfire. Finish the decoration by placing some marshmallows around the tableau.

Ideas for Fancy Dinner Tablescapes

When you host a dinner party, you often want a tablescape or setting to feel high-end and fancy. This can be accomplished in many ways that do not necessarily involve purchasing expensive china or crystal. Small accessories such as candles or flowers can give any dinner table sophistication. Simple items and techniques can separate your table from all others and make the party extra memorable for guests. Does this Spark an idea?

Napkins

Napkins are an important feature for the overall scheme of the table. Cloth napkins are considered more formal than paper napkins and typically used in nicer restaurants. Solid color napkins are easy to match to other items on the table compared with multicolor or patterned napkins. Fold napkins and place them on the plates to add instant elegance to any table. Rolling napkins and finishing them with napkin rings is another dressy tablescape option.

Candles

Candles are a staple for any fancy tablescape and an easy way to add ambiance to a dinner party. Candles come in all shapes, sizes and colors but "less is more" is a good rule of thumb. Crowding the table with many candles can be too busy looking, cumbersome and even dangerous. Try one large neutral-colored candle or a few slim taper candles in holders for a simple and elegant centerpiece to a dining table. Non-scented candles are always best around food as the scent of a candle can conflict with the main attraction of the evening.

Flowers

Fresh flowers are a classic choice for a fancy tablescape and add a natural element to your table. Like candles, a large bunch of flowers can look too busy and distract guests. A tall vase or flower arrangement also can block people's views and interrupt the flow of conversation. Sometimes a single tulip or rose from the backyard garden is all it takes to add sophistication to a tablescape.

Small Gift

When celebrating a special occasion like a holiday, a small gift on every guest's plate is a fancy and distinctive touch. A single flower or a piece of candy can be a nice surprise as a guest takes his seat. Around the holidays, a little nutcracker or snowflake ornament can serve as a party favor by which all of the guests can remember the dinner.

How to Make a Plastic Pub Table

A pub table is a great addition to a family room, patio or deck. Build it from durable plastic lumber in the color of your choice. Plastic lumber lasts approximately 15 times longer than standard lumber and does not have to be painted or stained. Bring the feel of an English pub into your home with this generously sized table that's suitable for stand-up use or bar-stool seating. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Cut the tongue off of one of the tongue-and-groove boards. Sand the edge smooth. Set this aside for the tabletop.

2

Cut the 8-foot 2-by-4 into two 30-inch and two 18-inch pieces. Set the four pieces on edge with the shorter pieces inside the ends of the longer ones to form a 21-by-30-inch tabletop base. Using a 1/16-inch bit, pre-drill holes for two screws at each end of the longer boards into the ends of the 18-inch pieces. Glue and screw the pieces together.

3

Cut the 6-foot 1-by-6 board exactly in half.

4

Drill the holes and then glue and screw these 36-inch pieces flush with the end of the base and centered so that they extend out 7 1/2 inches beyond the short sides of the base. The top pieces will be glued and screwed to these two pieces.

5

Place adhesive on top of the two 36-inch boards. Place the six 48-inch tongue-and-groove pieces across the top of those boards. Each end should extend evenly about nine inches beyond the base assembly. Five pieces will fit together with the tongue in the groove of the next piece; the final piece is the one with the tongue cut off. Adjust the pieces so the ends of the tabletop are even and so that the 36-inch pieces do not stick out beyond the tabletop. Mark an erasable line across all six pieces that runs along the center of the 36-inch pieces. Measure and mark two points to attach each tongue and groove piece. These should be evenly spaced 1 inch in from each edge of the tongue and groove material so as not to split the lumber when driving screws in the next step.

6

Drill 1/16-inch holes at these 24 points. Drive drywall screws just below the surface without cracking the plastic.

7

Cut four legs from the 7-foot 2-by-4 boards to 40.5 inches long each; you will have two legs per board.

8

Flip the table on its top. Place the ends of the legs in each corner of the base with the 4-inch sides against the longer side of the base. Glue them to the base. Drill four 1/16-inch holes through the side of the base into each leg. Attach the legs with drywall screws.

9

Cut two 30-inch pieces from the 5-foot 1-by-6 board. Cut two 21-inch pieces from the 4-foot 1-by-6.

10

Glue and screw these around the legs -- two screws at each end -- so that the top edges of these pieces are 10 inches above the floor. They brace the table legs at the bottom and serve as a footrest.

Fall Vineyard Wedding Decorating Ideas

Whether you are recreating an autumn vineyard indoors for your wedding or decorating a vineyard for a fall wedding, the color scheme should complement your wedding atmosphere. Because the deep greens and purples of grapes in vineyards go well with fall foliage, you can focus on enhancing the natural colors for an eye-catching decor. Vineyards can bring to mind romance, class and love, which suit a wedding.

Place Cards

Format the wedding guests' place cards to complement the vineyard theme as well as the autumn season. Choose burnt orange, yellow and red stationery and cut each place card in the shape of a maple leaf. Write each guest's name on the leaf. Break a small sprig of red grapes off of a bunch and pin the stem to the place cards. This creates a tasty place card presentation as well as a visually appealing setting that enhances the themes of your wedding.

Centerpieces

Choose a rustic looking bowl, such as a ceramic dish with hand painting or stencil work on the sides. Fill the bowl with water, and place several floating candles in the water. Choose candles with foliage colors of reds, oranges and yellows. Place the bowl on top of a tray and arrange bunches of grapes on the plate. Place a similar centerpiece on each guest table. This also can serve as an appetizer as well as a distinctive display of the autumn and vineyard themes.

Bistro

To add a European feel, create a bistro atmosphere for a wedding that is either indoors or outdoors. Set up small, bistro-style wrought iron tables and chairs, and set the tables with crisp white linens and china. Add a bottle of wine and some glasses to complement the vineyard theme. Create a fall centerpiece on the table to combine the themes. For example, place a small pumpkin, kumquats, purple grapes and squashes in a bowl for a colorful array.

A Guide to Dining Room Chair Styles

A dining room, whether formal or informal, is a place for family, friends and guests to come together and eat. Depending on the style of your dining room table and overall room dcor, chairs can be modern, classic or even Victorian style. With the right information, you can seek out the furniture stores that carry your desired style and save time come shopping day. Does this Spark an idea?

Bar Stools

Bistro-style and counter-height tables use taller chairs than traditional dining room tables. These chairs often are described as bar stool-height chairs. Bar stool chairs come in a variety of heights, depending on the table they are paired with. A bar stool can have a round or square seat and an open or closed back.

Queen Anne

One of the popular English chair styles of the 18th century was the Queen Anne style, which was named after Queen Anne. These chairs are classic and elegant and made from natural woods, with a padded fabric seat. A crest rail shaped into an urn style characterizes the back.

Duncan Phyfe

As the 19th-century furniture movement came about, so did the Duncan Phyfe designs. Known also as a Regency or Empire style, the Duncan Phyfe style uses square lines for inspiration. Scroll carvings and squared tops adorn the chair backs, while the legs are decorated with saber bottoms and curved just slightly. This collection got its name from the American cabinetmaker Duncan Phyfe. According to Connected Lines, Duncan Phyfe adapted his style from older styles, such as the Adam, Sheraton and Empire styles.

Ladderback

The ladderback- or Shaker-style chair is characterized by a square design similar to a ladder. Created in 1820 by the United Society of Believers, this chair has woven seats and a flat back finished with straight wooden slats that are horizontal to the chair seat. The chair legs are simple, without any intricate carvings or designs.

Parsons

The Parsons chair is common in modern dining room settings. Straight lines and a slightly curved, long back that resembles a wide V shape characterize this chair. Modern Parsons styles have upholstery on both the back and the seat of the chair, while classic designs cover only the seat. The material for the upholstery comes in a variety of art deco, solid and patterned colors to match numerous designs. The chair legs are made from solid wood with the back legs slightly curving outward from the chair.

How to Repaint a Metal Table

Metal tables, especially those used in outdoor gardens and patios, can quickly rust and deteriorate from exposure to the elements. They should be checked periodically for fading and corrosion, and then cleaned and repainted as necessary. Follow these steps for removing rust from an old metal table and repainting it to look like new. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1




Remove glass top and other nonmetal accessories attached to the table.

2




Clean off all dust, dirt and debris from the table, paying special attention to the nooks and crannies. Check for bubbles and other irregularities because these are indications that corrosion is occurring underneath.

3

Use the file, sandpaper and metal brush to scrape off loose paint and rust. Pry the bubbled and irregular paint off and sand down all rusted areas. Finish off with fine grit sandpaper.

4




Wipe the sanded areas with a moist rag to reveal the bare metal. Allow it to dry.

5

Lightly sand over the old paint to promote adhesion of the new paint. Wipe off loose paint and sandpaper particles.

6




Invert the table on the drop cloth and spray a coat of color on all underside areas. Follow the paint manufacturer's instructions for spraying more than one coat. Allow it to dry.

7




Set the table upright and spray a coat of paint on the topside. Spray a second or third coat as desired. Allow it to dry.

8




Return the glass top and other accessories, and rest assured that your refurbished metal table will serve you well for a few more years.