Wire A Ceiling Fan To An Existing Outlet Wire

The ceiling fan's weight can complicate wiring projects.

Wiring a ceiling fan to an existing circuit is similar to wiring any other electrical fixture, except the bulk and weight of the fan adds a little work. Most fan kits come with mounting brackets that fit on standard ceiling electrical boxes, and then the fan is mounted to the bracket. The electrical box has to be properly anchored to a ceiling joist. If you can move the electrical box at all, stop the project and have a contractor check it. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Cut power at the circuit box, and make sure it's off. Set your ladder under the existing ceiling fixture and climb to it.

2. Remove the screws that hold the existing fixture with a screwdriver, pulling the fixtures away and disconnecting the wires to get it free. Generally, you'll have to unravel a layer of electrical tape, then unscrew wire nuts. Leave the wires hanging from the electrical box.

3. Hold the mounting bracket from your ceiling kit up to the electrical box, lining up the screw holes. Secure the bracket with the screws provided in the fan kit and a screwdriver. Pull the wires down through the center of the bracket.

4. Put the fan together on the floor, following the kit's instructions and assembling all parts except the blades. Walk the fan housing up the ladder. Set it on top of the ladder, as close to the electrical box as you can get it, so you can connect the wiring. Some fan kits are designed to allow you temporarily hang the fan housing from a hook on the bracket while you wire it.

5. Connect the black wire from the fan unit to the black wire from the electrical box, and the white wire to the white wire. Connect them with your wire nuts. Wrap the connections in electrical tape.

6. Twist the bare copper grounding wire from the electrical box to the green grounding screw in the fan unit, using your hands.

7. Mount the fan unit to the bracket, using the screwdriver and the provided mounting screws. Attach ceiling fan blades as instructed in your kit. Turn the electricity on.

Tags: from electrical, wire from, black wire, black wire from, ceiling electrical

Build Mission Furniture

Mission furniture offers clean, crisp lines that work well for many home decor styles. It can make the most of beautiful wood and show off good woodworking skills. Mission style pieces are also easy for the home woodworker to construct, using lumber that is readily available and shapes that require only basic workshop tools. If you want to add beauty, style and a personal touch to your home, consider building your own mission-style furniture pieces. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Plan the piece. If it is your first attempt at building Mission furniture, consider a small side table. Plans can be purchased or found in a number of books on the subject. Mission styling also works beautifully for dining furniture and office furnishings and can even be used for chairs and couches.

2. Prepare your supplies. Harder woods will be more durable and stay beautiful longer than softer, less expensive choices. Organize your building plan, whether you have purchased one or designed it yourself. You may want to cut all of your lumber at the beginning of the project and label each piece for ease of construction. Organize your tools and hardware before beginning your mission furniture project.

3. Construct your project. A small Mission style table may be an afternoon's project, but a larger hutch or dining room set may take several weeks of work when you have time. Consider keeping notes if you will be working on your project on multiple occasions.

4. Take the time to finish your work properly. Countersink all screws and use washers to protect the wood where appropriate. L brackets can be a good addition to add sturdiness and security to your new piece. A bit of additional time at this stage can make the difference between a beautifully crafted piece and one that is not.

5. Sand and finish your piece. You may wish to stain the wood before applying polyurethane. Oak or another dark, rich wood may not require stain at all. If you prefer to avoid chemical finishes, the wood can be oiled or waxed if it will be used indoors.

Tags: finish your, Mission style, Organize your, your piece, your project

Make A "Call Of Duty 4" Video

Windows Movie Maker is designed to make editing quick and painless.

One fun hobby of expert gamers is the capture and editing of their own game play videos. You can do this to help other players by providing tips and tricks, explore little-known areas, or just showcase your absolute demolition of the opponents you encounter online. Making a good video requires a little creativity and a few good ideas, but the basics stay the same no matter what type of video you wish to make.

Instructions

Capture the Video

1. Download and install the FRAPs video recorder via the link in "Resources." FRAPs software allows you to record games as you play them, Call of Duty included.

2. Open FRAPs by double-clicking the icon on your desktop.

3. Click "Movies" to load the video capture setup screen. Click "Change" if you wish to save your videos to a directory other than the FRAPs default.

4. Set your video capture hotkey by typing it into the box under "Video Capture Hotkey." Pressing this hotkey during game play when to begin and end video recording.

5. Adjust the frame rate based on the requirements of your video and computer. Higher frame rates result in smoother playback but will create larger files and require more system resources. Anything above 25fps is usually enough for most videos.

6. Open Call of Duty 4 and navigate to whichever part of the game you wish to record. Press your video capture hotkey when you wish to begin recording; press it again to complete the video. FRAPs will run in the background and create files for each record, so feel free to record several clips.

Edit the Video

7. Download and install Windows Movie Maker if it is not already installed on your computer. You can find a download link in "Resources."

8. Click "Tasks" and select "Import Video."

9. Select the Call of Duty video clips you recorded earlier and click the checkbox next to "Create clips for video files." This will break your video into smaller, more manageable clips.

10. Click "Import" to load the videos into Movie Maker.

11. Use Windows Movie Maker's built-in tools to edit, trim, and adjust your video. You can also add credits, title sequences, or alternate audio tracks if desired. Most of these actions can be accomplished through dragging and dropping various elements into the workspace.

12. Click "Finish Movie" and select "Save to My Computer." Enter a file name and click "Next." Click "Next" again, then click "Finish" to save your movie.

Tags: your video, Call Duty, Movie Maker, video capture, Windows Movie, Windows Movie Maker

About The Values Of Antique Singer Sewing Machines

Your old Singer sewing machine might be worth more than you think.

Determining the value of your antique Singer sewing machine requires that you first realize that "value" means more than price. In the sewing machine world, models are generally considered antiques if they are manufactured prior to 1900. Machines built since 1900 are thought to be vintage and are valued more by crafters and quilters than by collectors.

History

Singer began manufacturing sewing machines in 1851. By 1856, they introduced the Singer Family model which was so expensive that the company had to implement a payment plan. Gradually, Singer worked to make the sewing machines more affordable for the average family. Today, the value of an antique Singer sewing machine in good condition made prior to the 1900s could be appraised in the thousands and is based less on condition and more on rarity.

Significance

To find specific information about your sewing machine, call Singer at 1-800-4-SINGER. Before you call, find the serial number of your machine on the right side of the machine bed. With this information, Singer can tell you the date your sewing machine was manufactured as well as the model number. Armed with a date and model, you are better equipped to determine the cash value of your machine and whether it is an antique or vintage.

Types

Value could include sentiment as well as money. The Singer that your grandmother passed to you is infinitely more valuable as an heirloom than it is likely to be for a collector. Decorative value is also something to consider. The treadle machines in good condition are quite desirable to some designers and the Featherweights manufactured after 1900 are popular to collectors and crafters.

Features

The earliest Singer machines were mounted on stands and look considerably different than today's models. The later antique sewing machines had lock-stitch vibrating shuttles, which Singer patented in 1859. Toy or miniature travel machines were made from cast iron and are quite collectible, in good condition. The earlier machines had only one pedal, while later models had two. The cabinet housing for the sewing machines became popular after 1900.

Considerations

To receive the highest value possible, Singers built prior to 1900 should be in good condition but are not expected to be pristine. Working machines are worth more to collectors along with machines complete with all of their parts. For vintage machines built after 1900, even the smallest scratch can make a difference in the desirability of your collectible.

Tags: sewing machine, good condition, after 1900, sewing machines, Singer sewing, Singer sewing machine

Disassemble A Bed Frame

Breaking down a bed isn't hard, but it usually requires two people to do it quickly and safely. Twin beds are much easier than a king-sized bed, but a standard bed follows the same concept no matter the size. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the mattress and box spring from the bed frame by lifting them up and off the frame. Stand them against the wall out of your work area. If the bed is larger than a twin, you may need help.

2. Start at the foot of the bed. Remove the footboard, if there is one. To remove the bed rails, use a wrench to loosen any bolts by grasping the nut behind the metal frame bracket and turning. Use the screwdriver to unscrew the screw/bolt once the nut is loose. Remove all the bolts from both sides of the footboard, screw the nuts to the screws, and place them in a plastic, zipper bag so you will not lose them.

3. Remove any bed slats. Lift the slats up and out of the bed rails. Bed slats can be wood, metal, or wire. If you have wire, it is probably inserted into two holes that you will not be able to remove until you have disengaged the bed rails from the headboard and footboard.

4. Move to the headboard and locate the screws/bolts and nuts. If you don't have a headboard, proceed to Step 5. Some headboards have brackets or slots with small metal bars in them that allow the bed rails to hook into the slots by lifting and hooking over the bars. If you have slots and hooking brackets, lift the bed rail, one at a time, and pull the rail out of the slot. If you have a traditional screw/bolt connection, use the wrench to grasp the nut and turn it counterclockwise until the nut is loose. Use the screwdriver to unscrew the screw/bolt. Put the nut onto the end of the screw and place all of the hardware into the plastic zipper bag.

5. Stack the bed rails on the floor and put the bed slats between the rails. Tape around both ends and the center of the rails/slats with masking tape. Write the room or person's name who owns the bed onto the outside of the plastic zipper bag with the permanent black marker and roll the bag, tucking it into the bed rails/slats and taping around it with masking tape to secure it to the rails/slats.

Tags: rails slats, plastic zipper, screw bolt, masking tape, screwdriver unscrew, screwdriver unscrew screw

The Best Paint Colors To Complement Medium Oak Woodwork

Medium oak has a color that resembles the exterior of almonds.

While most shades of regular oak have blondish hue, medium oak has a darker color. Medium oaks have a richer color, a combination of numerous warm shades of light brown, red and golden orange, producing a final color that resembles the outside of an almond. Selecting paint colors for medium oak woodwork should be a pleasure as several colors complement this remarkable shade. Does this Spark an idea?

Browns

Even though medium oak wood is made up of a palette of different colors, one of the main colors of that palette is brown. Thus, you can paint the surrounding walls or woodwork around medium oak woodwork any shade of brown, and it will effortlessly complement the natural wood tones. For example, you can go for a more understated look and use a lighter brown like cafe au lait or sand, or you can go bolder with colors like chocolate brown or coffee brown for a more dramatic effect. Brown is a shade that can look striking without looking dreary.

Reds and Oranges

What makes medium oak wood such a suitable shade of wood for interiors is that it has such a warm welcoming color. Part of what makes the hue of the wood seem so warm is the presence of red tones to the color. Accentuate this by painting the surrounding walls and selecting pieces of furniture in tones of red, orange or bronze. For example, reddish colors mixed with brown, like sienna, complement the medium oak naturally, or daring colors like cherry red or copper give the room a degree of vibrancy while looking harmonious with the medium oak.

Yellows and Creams

Medium oak wood has a diverse color palette; one of the colors that this palette includes to a tiny degree is the color gold. Emphasize this golden quality of the wood by selecting any shade of yellow to delicately complement the medium oak shade. For example, light yellows like butter yellow or satin yellow keep the room looking light and airy yet spotlight the golden aspects of the wood. More drastic shades of yellow, like mustard yellow or lemon yellow, keep the room looking lively while bringing out the golden tones of the medium oak.

Tags: brown like, color that, color that resembles, colors like, colors that, complement medium

Sell Recycled Wood

Sell Recycled Wood

Recycled wood products can find new life as a creative coffee table, artist's sculpture, hardwood floor board or bookshelf. Before you trash old wood products, spend time researching their resale value. You might be sitting on a profit. Sources of recycled wood include old farm crates, condemned buildings, old fences, wood pallets and scrap lumber. If your recycled wood is in poor quality, you can still sell it to a mill that will use it to create new wood-based products like compressed firewood. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Sort and categorize your wood. Create a list of what you've got and the condition it's in. If you have five rustic apple crates in good condition and two in poor condition, write this information down.

2. Photograph the wood in natural light so that you can show sellers what you've got without physically driving the wood to their business.

3. Look for timber or flooring companies selling recycled wood products in your area using Woodfinder, Recycle.net or other Internet sources. Find out what types of wood these companies sell. If you have something they sell, call them to see what they are currently offering for that type of wood.

4. Follow up with an email with photographs or by stopping by with a sample of your wood.

5. Place a classified ad in your local newspaper that lists some information on the recycled wood you're selling. Provide a phone number or email address.

6. Research art schools, woodworking classes, furniture makers and artists' collectives in your area. These types of people are often looking for reclaimed wood. If you have recycled wood scraps left over from a home repair project or if you have smaller pieces of wood, artists may be your best match. Contact the programs or individuals you find to notify them what types of wood you have and let them know you can provide wood samples or photographs.

7. Find recycled wood mills that buy wood. Contact them using the Internet or telephone to see if they need your wood. With faraway companies, you'll probably get less money since the wood needs to be transported. Look for distant wood mills only if you're unable to find a buyer in your community.

Tags: recycled wood, wood products, your wood, recycled wood, Sell Recycled, Sell Recycled Wood

Stain Oak Plywood To Match Red Oak

Oak plywood and red oak lumber have different densities; stain penetrates at different levels. To match plywood stain color to lumber, you must limit or enhance stain exposure. Surface preparation is also important. Plywood has a finer finish than lumber. Taking these factors into consideration, you can accurately match veneered plywood to red oak lumber.

Instructions

1. Purchase stain as close in color to the oak as possible.

2. Sand the plywood by hand using sandpaper on a sanding block. Compare the surface of the plywood to the oak. When they reflect light evenly, stop sanding.

3. Pour a small amount of stain onto the cloth. Wipe a piece of scrap plywood with the cloth. Saturate the plywood evenly. Turn the cloth over to the dry side and wipe the plywood clean. Let the stain dry 15 minutes.

4. Hold up the scrap to the oak and compare the difference. If the plywood is too light, apply another coat of stain. Let it dry for 15 minutes and compare. If it still is to light, add another coat until they match.

5. Hold up the scrap to the oak. If it is too dark, pour one part lacquer thinner to four parts stain into a can. Apply the stain and wipe off. Let the stain dry for 15 minutes and compare. If it is still too light, add another part thinner to the can. Apply it to the plywood and check again. Dilute with thinner until they match.

Tags: stain minutes, another coat, compare still, compare still light, Hold scrap

About Memory Foam Mattress Toppers

About Memory Foam Mattress Toppers

Memory foam mattress toppers are an excellent alternative to purchasing a new memory foam mattress. The luxury and physical benefits of a memory foam mattress can be costly, but adding a topper to your existing mattress will give you much of the same comfort without all of the costs. Does this Spark an idea?

History

Memory foam, also known as visco-elastic foam, was developed in the 1970s by NASA. They needed a material that would cushion the astronauts from the g-forces during their space mission's launch and re-entry. The material was initially too expensive to be used as a mattress, but found widespread use in the medical field. Eventually, the product became more affordable for consumers and is now a reasonable alternative to a traditional coil mattress.

Types

Memory foam mattress toppers are made from layers of polyurethane foam combined with other chemicals that add weight and thickness. Memory foam softens and molds to you in reaction to your body's warmth and offers a more restful night's sleep than conventional mattresses.

Features

Memory foam mattress toppers allow for even distribution of your body's pressure points and weight, giving you better spinal support and body contouring than traditional mattresses. The spring-like qualities of the foam used in the toppers allow them to consistently return to their original shape after being pressed. The material is also temperature reactive, meaning that it softens when it's warm and becomes firm when it's cool.

Considerations

Purchasing a memory foam mattress is expensive and not easily affordable for many consumers. Quality memory foam mattresses can range from $2,000 to $2,500 and more. Memory foam mattress toppers are significantly less expensive and work well as an addition to your existing mattress. Toppers range from around $40 to $250 and while they are not a substitute for a full foam mattress, they can be a welcome addition to your old mattress. When choosing the thickness of your new memory foam topper, consider the height of your existing mattress to ensure that your sheets will fit over both. Newer fitted sheet depths go up to 22 inches, but older sets may not be as deep and will not fit the addition of your foam topper.

Benefits

"The average person tosses and turns at least 80 times per night on a conventional mattress," according to memoryfoamonline.com (see Resources below). This gives new meaning to the term sleep deprived if you consider the implications. They go on to say that on a memory foam mattress, tossing and turning is reduced to less than 17 times. Adding a memory foam mattress topper to your mattress is a cost effective way to a better night's sleep.

Tags: foam mattress, foam mattress, memory foam, addition your, existing mattress, memory foam mattress, your existing

Get Abel'S Mission On "Mysims Agents"

Children and adults of all ages can become a secret agent in "MySims Agents."

Published by Electronic Arts, "MySims Agents" is the fifth game in the "MySims" series for the Nintendo Wii and the Nintendo DS. In "MySims Agents" the player takes on the role of a secret agent and interacts with a number of different characters as they complete missions. One of these characters is Abel, the owner of the Autumn Bay furniture store and the brother of Ashley.

Instructions

1. Go to the Town Hall Plaza of Autumn Bay. Abel is at his furniture store, which is open evenings and nights, in the plaza.

2. Talk to Abel by pressing the "A" button. If Abel has a quest for you, a golden "!" will appear above his head. If he does not have a golden "!" above his head, follow the steps below.

3. Find people around town that do have a golden "!" above their head and talk to them to acquire a quest. Complete the quests.

4. Help people around town by hugging them if they are sad, giving them food if they are hungry and giving them flower emblems if they are angry.

5. Participate in mini-games around town. You can play these by talking to people around town. Certain characters will ask you if you want to play a game.

6. Return to Abel and check if he has a golden "!" above his head. If he still does not have a golden "!" above his head, repeat Steps Three through Five. When you complete enough quests, help enough people or participate in enough mini-games, a golden "!" will appear above Abel's head and he will have a quest for you.

Tags: above head, around town, golden above, golden above head, have golden, have golden above, people around

Garden Ideas For A Craftsman Style Home

Craftsman homes have a distinctive style.

Craftsman homes were inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement from 1895 to 1918. They were designed to blend with the natural environment and had features like large porches and built-in bookcases. Travel to well established older areas of any city today, and you can see many lovingly restored craftsman homes. In addition, many people who are building homes favor the craftsman style. Craftsman home gardens should look natural and relaxed and blend into the landscape. Does this Spark an idea?

Reinforce Home Details

A craftsman-style home is designed to blend with its surroundings, so the garden's plants and architecture should complement the colors and design of the house. Pergolas and benches should be made of the same wood as the house, or at least it should be in the same shade. Garden vines and wooden planters can all enhance the craftsman style.

Pergolas or Trellises

Pergolas are open wooden lattice structures that are a staple of craftsman-style gardens. A pergola is an extension of the house where your family can relax and entertain. Pergolas are often paired with trellises for climbing vines.

Plant Types

Although a variety of newer plants can be used with a craftsman-home garden, many homeowners choose old-fashioned plants that were in vogue a century ago. Shrubs like lilacs, roses and peonies can be combined with flowers such as columbine, foxgloves and pansies to create a unified look. Choose shrubs and flowers that complement each other, instead of contrasting. Trees can be a plus, as long as they are planted and sized correctly. You can also include a few plants that stay green year-round, like rhododendrons, to keep the garden attractive in the winter.

Garden Layout

You can create a good craftsman-style garden by abandoning artificial lines and groupings. Trees and shrubs should be left to grow without trimming them into round or square shapes. Paths and walkways should take their direction from the land, instead of being forced into straight lines. Use flowers and shrubs to hide the edges and corners of these paths. Medium-sized trees are well-suited to craftsman homes that are bungalows. Use trees sparingly.

Tags: blend with, Craftsman homes, designed blend, designed blend with, plants that

Create A Good Mission In Smallworlds

The virtual online game SmallWorlds allows you to create your own avatars, purchase items, decorate your own room and create missions for your friends and others. With your online friends, you can share photos, play online games, listen to music and more. However, if you are looking to earn experience (XP) points and tokens to expand your virtual world, you can accept missions or create your own. To create a good mission, you will need to make the tasks interesting, creative and fun for all ages.

Instructions

1. Create a mission that is easy to understand and interesting at the same time. People who have trouble completing your missions will become frustrated and discouraged. Common mistakes that mission creators make are creating confusing instructions, failing to make essential links and objects clickable, and failing to make sure that players can enter and exit through doors. To avoid these mistakes, double check your instructions for confusing or misspelled words and phrases, check the objects and links to make sure they are working and ensure that your avatar can enter each door.

2. Set your mission for the main purpose of having fun and not to exploit other players. Not only can using cheats and conducting exploits ban you from playing SmallWorlds, but once your account has been reinstated, you will no longer be able to create new missions.

3. Implement creative tasks to complete the mission. Take the time to plan a creative hook where an avatar must perform a certain action or say a phrase to complete the task. Other types of creative hook includes using an item on oneself or others and using the interactions feature of the game to interact with other characters and items.

4. Make your mission appealing to a wider audience by making it age-appropriate and non-offensive to players. Avoid using language and content that is offensive. For example, phrases that avatars must say to pass the mission should be clean and contain non-vulgar words and abbreviations (OMG, LOL, etc). In addition to language and content, create a room that is pleasing to the players and that gives them the freedom to move around and explore.

Tags: create missions, create your, creative hook, failing make, language content, make sure, your mission

Sheraton Hotel History

Sheraton Hotel History

If you travel a lot, it's almost a given that you've stayed at at least one of the many brands that fall under the umbrella of the Sheraton hotel franchise. With hotels in many countries, as well as throughout the entire United States, Sheraton is one of the most well-regarded hotel chains today.

The Founders

In 1937, East coast entrepreneurs Ernest Henderson and Robert Moore made plans to create a hotel chain. They started by buying the Stonehaven Hotel in Springfield, Massachusetts. Their goal was to create a network of hotels from which customers could experience a consistent standard of service, which they could expect from all hotels bearing the Sheraton name. These same principles form the backbone of Sheraton's mission statement to this very day.

The Beginning

Henderson and Moore spent the early 1940s expanding their hotel chain by buying up fledgling hotels, mostly throughout the Boston area. They further expanded to the New York, Philadelphia and New England markets. By 1945, they had hotels in every state along the East coast. In 1949, the Sheraton Corp. made history by becoming a publicly traded company, the first hotel chain to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. In 1949, the company reached another milestone when it purchased two Canadian hotels, making it an international hotel chain.

The Name

The Sheraton name has a more auspicious history than you might think. It came about when one of the hotels Henderson and Moore purchased, already named the Sheraton Hotel, had a sign out front that was simply too expensive to take down. They then made the decision to give all of their hotels the same name, and add signage to those hotels.

Brands

Along with the basic Sheraton brand, the chain also offers a mid-level lodging experience by way of the Four Points by Sheraton brand. The St. Regis, Luxury Collection and Le Meridien (International) brands offer varying degrees of higher-level lodging, while the W Hotel brand offers more cutting-edge, modern-style hotel services.

Sheraton Today

Since being purchased by Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide in 1998, Sheraton has become one of the largest and most known hotel chains in the world. Sheraton hotels can be found in over 100 countries, and on every continent other than Antarctica.

Tags: hotel chain, East coast, Henderson Moore, hotel chains, Hotel History, Sheraton brand, Sheraton Hotel

Court Yard Plants

The clematis is a clinging vine suitable for a courtyard space.

The problem of landscaping a courtyard is finding plants that thrive in a sheltered spot without outgrowing the space. Perennials, including small trees and shrubs, provide the structure in a courtyard garden. Along with these, comfortable seating, flowering annuals in large pots and a bubbling wall fountain make a courtyard feel inviting. Does this Spark an idea?

Clematis

Since space is limited inside a courtyard, think vertically. Place a trellis or lattice against one wall and plant a climbing clematis (Ranunculacea) at its base. Clematis, often called queen of climbers, has many varieties with trumpet-shaped flowers of white, pink, mauve, purple, lavender, yellow or blue. This perennial thrives when the vine is in full sun and the roots are cool and shaded. Most grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zones 4 to 8 and can reach 15 feet tall. Some species are evergreen.

Japanese Maple

The Japanese maple Red Pygmy (Acer palmatum 'Red Pygmy') is considered a miniature tree by some gardeners and a large shrub by others. This perennial slowly grows to a mature height of about 4 feet, making it a good fit for a courtyard. Its purple-red lacy leaves form a mound, giving it a shrub-like appearance. Plant it in full sun in a sheltered spot. It's hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 5 through 8.

Hostas

If your courtyard is shaded for part of the day or has dappled shade all day long, any variety of hosta is an option. The prominent foliage is the star of this perennial. It is part of the Liliaceae family and hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3 to 8. Colors range from variegated lime-green and white, to blue-green. Sizes can range from 6 inches tall to 3 feet tall and wide. In summer, tiny bell-shaped flowers appear on stems emerging from the foliage.

Tags: Hardiness Zones, Plant Hardiness, Plant Hardiness Zones, feet tall, hardy USDA

Coop On "Gta Iv The Ballad Of Gay Tony"

In "Grand Theft Auto IV: The Ballad of Gay Tony," you and a friend can cooperatively play together in the game's Co-op Missions mode. To do this, both players must have their own copy of the game and Xbox 360 console with active Internet connection. The three missions that can be played cooperatively are Deal Breaker, Hangman's Noose and Bomb da Base II, all of which follow Gay Tony throughout his exploits in Liberty City.

Instructions

1. Sign in to your Xbox Live account on your Xbox 360. Instruct the person you plan on playing with to do the same.

2. Exchange one another's Xbox Live gamertags, and become friends if you aren't already.

3. Start "Grand Theft Auto IV: The Ballad of Gay Tony" on both you and your friend's Xbox 360s.

4. Select "Multiplayer" from the game's main menu.

5. Choose "Co-op Missions" from the multiplayer menu.

6. Select "Host Game" on either you or your friend's game, and select the "Invite Friends" option.

7. Select the Xbox Live gamertag of the person you would like to play co-op missions with.

8. Select "Join Game" on the other player's Xbox 360. This will transport both of you into a co-op mission of "Grand Theft Auto IV: The Ballad of Gay Tony."

Tags: Ballad Tony, Auto Ballad, Auto Ballad Tony, Grand Theft, Grand Theft Auto

Create A Courtyard Look

A small outdoor courtyard is an inviting place.

A courtyard is basically an open space surrounded by walls. It can be either inside a building or outside; however, there are some basic elements to be found in all courtyards. When you incorporate these into your design, you'll be able to give your open space a courtyard look. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose a theme for your courtyard, one that works with the materials and style of the surrounding walls. For example, brick or plaster walls can work well for a Tuscan or Mediterranean look. Wood can accent a minimalist Zen style.

2. Consider the type of flooring to use. For an outdoor courtyard, you can use wood, as for a deck, tile, paving stones or even cement, if you have an existing patio. Indoors, choose stone or tiles to set the courtyard apart from the rest of the house.

3. Add walls as necessary for an outdoor courtyard. "Walls" in this sense include anything that can be used to block off the space; they don't have to be solid. Lattice fences or even hedges can act as "walls."

4. Incorporate a water feature. This can be a fountain, a waterfall attached to one of the walls, a small pool or a small pond, perhaps containing fish or water plants.

5. Choose furniture based on the purpose of your courtyard. You will need to choose pieces that can withstand the elements if they are to be placed outside. If you want to dine there, choose a table and chairs fitting your theme; if you want the space more as a quiet place to relax, choose seating suitable for that purpose.

6. Use plants and small trees, such as topiaries, in decorative containers. Place them around the perimeter of the area. For an outside courtyard, you can also consider using trellises up against the walls of the house and training ivy or flowering vines.

7. Accent with light. For an outdoor space, attach lighting fixtures to the walls so you can enjoy the space at night; you can also string lights in any available shrubs or trees. If an indoor courtyard does not have a built-in skylight, you can install a large, opaque glazed panel in the ceiling and back-light it with daylight bulbs.

Tags: outdoor courtyard, open space, your courtyard

Make Rustic Furniture

The term "rustic furniture" describes furniture that has a hand-made appearance. The classic Adirondack garden chair is a prime example of rustic furniture that you can make yourself. Adirondack chairs are low slung chairs for outdoor use, made of wooden slats. They do not usually have cushions. You can save hundreds of dollars if you make your own Adirondack chairs or other rustic furniture.

Instructions

Select a Furniture Plan

1. Visit the Adirondack Source online to download free Adirondack chair plans (see Resources below).

2. Peruse the rustic furniture plans to find one that matches your skill level.

3. Download the plans and print them out. You will want to have them at hand when you begin to build.

Shop for Furniture Materials

4. Take the plans you printed out to the hardware store to buy your supplies.

5. Purchase more wood and screws than your plan calls for so you have extra materials on hand.

Follow Rustic Chair Plans

6. Construct the sides of the chair first.

7. Drill guide holes before you screw each piece together. This will make inserting screws easier.

8. Attach the back legs to the back supports as your plan illustrates.

9. Screw the front legs to the back leg assembly using your galvanized screws.

10. Lay the stretcher base in the space on the front legs and attach it.

11. Center and attach the arms to the top of the legs.

12. Screw the back brace into place to complete the frame of the rustic Adirondack chair.

13. Attach the remaining slats across the back and seat of the chair.

14. Shape the tops of the slats with a jigsaw.

Sand and Paint Your Furniture

15. Sand your rustic furniture so it is smooth and ready to paint.

16. Apply a coat of exterior paint and let it dry.

17.Apply a second coat of paint.

18. Leave the chair to dry overnight before using.

Tags: rustic furniture, Adirondack chair, Adirondack chairs, front legs, furniture that, legs back, paint Apply

Installing A Microwave Over The Range

Cluttered counter space in your kitchen is enough to drive any cook a little bit crazy. When you find yourself glaring at your microwave and resenting it's invasion of your space, it may be time to consider installing an over-the-range microwave/hood. Does this Spark an idea?

Things to Consider

Detailed installation instructions should be packaged with your microwave. Make sure yours are provided, as they will contain the diagram for your specific machine.

Make sure you know local code for this job and comply with it. Ideally you will want a 30" cabinet above your range. An over-the-range microwave is normally 15 inches to 16 inches tall and most building codes for new construction (check your local codes) require 18 inches to 20 inches of space between the range and the microwave. You will want at least 30 inches between cabinet and stove with 34 inches being preferred by some installers.

You will need an electrical outlet inside the upper cabinet. If there is an existing microwave the outlet will already be installed. If there is a hood above your range, you will need to install an outlet, as hoods are wired directly like a light fixture. When removing an existing hood, you will need to go turn off the power so you can move the wires into the cabinet to install an outlet. The following instructions are for hanging a microwave to an upper cabinet with an outlet.

Ducted or Recirculating

Decide if you want your microwave to be vented to the outside or recirculated. If you are venting the microwave, you will need a 3 1/4 inch by 10 inch duct centered out the back wall or up into the cabinet to tie into your stove venting. A recirculated microwave recirculates air through a charcoal filter and requires no venting. Most microwave/hoods are now convertible.

Hanging the Microwave

First remove the mounting plate from the back of the microwave by removing the two screws. Pull the back off and remove the blower to turn it to the proper position for vent or recirculation. Instructions for this will be with the unit or available from the manufacturer. Drill a 1.75 inch hole in bottom right hand side of cabinet for the microwave wire to go through.

Your microwave instructions will include a template to help you mark proper placement when installing the hanging bracket to the wall. Try to find studs to attach the bracket to, or use the drywall anchors provided. Attach the microwave to the bracket and run the wires and/or ducting up inside cabinet, then position into place centered in your opening.

Consult the template, and install the screws provided inside of the upper cabinet. When tightened, these screws will basically suck the microwave up against the upper cabinet. This is an important step, as the long screws that go down through the front of cabinet into the front top of microwave provide the mechanism that holds your microwave in proper place. The purpose of the wall brackets is simply to keep it from falling.

Finally, plug in your microwave and check to make sure it is functioning,

Tags: upper cabinet, will need, your microwave, above your, above your range, cabinet into

Arts & Crafts Furniture Painting Ideas

Transform a wooden dresser into a work of art.

Whether you are looking to restore an antique armoire or give a new face to a nightstand from the thrift store, paint can completely transform the surface of wooden furniture. Painting is an easy and inexpensive way to create a one-of-a-kind piece to decorate your home.

Crackle Painting

Crackle painting is a distressing technique often used on furniture. To crackle paint, you will need two different colors of paint, as well as crackle medium. Paint the furniture with one color, and allow it to dry thoroughly. Use a brush to apply a coat of crackle medium across the surface of the furniture in a random pattern. The thicker you apply the crackle medium, the larger and more noticeable the cracks will be. When the crackle medium is tacky, apply the second color of paint across the furniture. When it dries, you should see cracks in the top color, allowing the bottom color to show through.

Geometric Shapes

Add dimension and a pattern to your furniture using stencils. Paint the surface of the furniture in a solid color of your choice. Trace geometric-shaped stencils onto the dry paint and fill them in with other colors of paint.

Stripes

Stripes are very easy to paint on furniture using painter's tape. Simply apply the masking tape to create the stripes on the furniture and fill in the exposed wood with paint. This will create sharp, even lines on the furniture.

Tags: crackle medium, colors paint, furniture using, surface furniture

Furniture Styles Of The Arts & Crafts Movement

The Arts and Crafts Movement began in the late 1800s as a reaction to the increasingly poor quality of manufactured goods that resulted from low-wage factory production. Championed by architects and artists John Ruskin and William Morris, this movement valued individual craftsmanship and solid materials. Does this Spark an idea?

Pre-Arts and Crafts

Before the movement began, industrial production of cheap, consumer furniture was on the rise. According to Morris, low prices and fast production had denigrated the status of the craftsman and undermined the value of quality goods.

Principles

It was the movement's founders who hoped for quality furniture at affordable prices. Division of labor was discouraged; all-in-one production would re-instill the industry with skilled workers, rather than encourage the poor working conditions of the assembly line.

Furniture Characteristics

Furniture in the Arts and Crafts tradition is generally of heavy local wood, leather and wrought iron. In terms of form, pieces are often rectilinear, and the colors are usually earth tones.

Influences

According to Charlotte Jirousek of Cornell University, the rectilinear designs and patterns of Arts and Crafts furniture are heavily influenced by Islamic and Medieval design.

American Arts and Crafts

America created its own branch of the Arts and Crafts Movement, often called the Mission style. This incorporated many of the European Arts and Crafts concepts, while blending its aesthetics with Southwestern and Hispanic designs.

Tags: Arts Crafts, Arts Crafts Movement, Crafts Movement

Cover An Office Chair With Naugahyde

Reupholstering office chairs can usually be done quickly and easily with most simple office chair styles. With 1 to 2 yards of Naugahyde fabric, your office chair can be completely renewed. For very little money, you can change the color of your chair, add additional foam or padding and make it more comfortable. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the chair back and the chair seat of the office chair using a screwdriver. Most inexpensive office chairs use simple screws to attach the chair backs and chair seats.

2. Examine the existing upholstery on the chair back and seat. If it is a non-fabric upholstery that is worn, torn or missing foam, repair the damaged portions before recovering the back. If the chair is covered with a fabric, remove the fabric using a seam ripper before re-covering the chair with Naugahyde.

3. Place the Naugahyde face down on the table and place the seat back on top of the fabric. Cut the shape of the seat back, adding 3 to 4 inches on each side.

4. Wrap and pull the Naugahyde so that the ends of the fabric can be stapled to the back of the chair back. Staple the fabric from the top and bottom first, then the fabric from each side. Make sure the fabric is pulled just enough for a smooth finish. Work your way around the seat back, stapling every inch or so until the fabric is completely attached. Trim off any excess fabric.

5. Repeat this process for the office chair seat. Rescrew your newly upholstered chair back and seat to the chair.

Tags: chair back, back chair, office chair, seat back, back seat, chair back seat

Luxury Hotels In San Diego With 2 Queen Beds

Choose from a wide variety of hotels when staying in San Diego.

San Diego is a city that caters to a variety of visitors at its luxury hotels. However, if you are a family traveling with children and require a room with two beds, you could find yourself in an expensive hotel room, sleeping in a double bed. Not all of the higher-end hotels in San Diego will offer you the luxury of two queen beds.

Hyatt Regency Mission Bay

The Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa features ocean views, waterfront dining and a full-service marina. The resort-style hotel offers three landscaped pools with water slides, a poolside lounge, bar, spa and health club. The two queen beds in your room have pillowtop mattresses. Room amenities include a 32-inch LCD flat screen television, stereo alarm with iPod docking, refrigerator, safe, work desk and wireless/wired Internet access. Most rooms have balconies with views of the garden or the coastal area. As of 2010, a room with two queen beds ranges in price from $209 to over $400 depending on room and season. The hotel charges $20 for self-parking and $25 for valet parking. High-speed Internet access is $9.95 for 24 hours.

Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina

1441 Quivira Road

San Diego, California, USA 92109

619-224-1234

missionbay.hyatt.com

Hard Rock Hotel

The Hard Rock Hotel is at the entrance of San Diego's dining and entertainment district. The hotel offers four choices for dining and relaxing, a landscaped rooftop with pool, bar and lounge, a Japanese restaurant, a casual bar and lounge with exterior terrace, plus a coffee shop. You can also check out the rock 'n' roll boutique or spend time at the spa. The rooms are all nonsmoking and feature a 42-inch flat-screen HD television, multimedia system with iPod, wireless/wired Internet access, safe, mini bar and robes. As of 2010, a room with two queen beds ranges in price from $209 to over $500 depending on room and season. Parking is $35.

Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

Corner of 5th Avenue & L Street

207 5th Avenue

San Diego, CA 92101

619-702-3000

hardrockhotelsd.com

Horton Grand Hotel

The Horton Grand Hotel is in the heart of the entertainment district known as Gaslamp Quarters. The hotel's ambiance evokes the elegance of the Victorian Era and welcomes guests with an open-air courtyard. All rooms are nonsmoking. The rooms with two queen beds have Victorian-style furniture, gas-burning fireplaces, desk, wireless Internet access, television and a city view. Hotel amenities include the Palace Bar and meeting facilities. As of 2010, the price for a room with two queen beds begins at $229 (no more than two adults and two children in a room).

The Horton Grand Hotel

311 Island Avenue

San Diego, CA 92101

619-544-1886

hortongrand.com

Hotel Solamar

Hotel Solamar, a luxury hotel with a contemporary setting in downtown San Diego, hosts a complimentary wine hour each evening. A pet-friendly, nonsmoking hotel close to shopping, dining and entertainment, Hotel Solamar features a fitness center, in-room spa services, rooftop pool and terrace with a lounge offering light food and nibbles. Full dining and 24-hour room service is available from the Jsix restaurant across the road. The hotel welcomes children with a gift package, cribs and playpens are complimentary, and, if requested, a highchair can be delivered to your room. You can also rent strollers. Rooms with two queen beds feature a work area, LCD flat-screen television, safe, honor bar and terry cloth animal print robes. As of 2010, a room with two queen beds ranges in price from $169 to over $300 depending on room and package. Valet parking is $35.

Hotel Solamar

435 - 6th Avenue at J Street

San Diego, CA 92101

619 819-9500

hotelsolamar.com

Tower23 Hotel

Tower23 is a contemporary luxury hotel right on the beach. Rooms have balconies or patios, but not all overlook the ocean. The hotel offers Wi-Fi everywhere, an outdoor pool and deck, and oceanfront dining at the JRDN restaurant. Other hotel amenities include in-room spa services, bike rentals and surf lessons. Rooms with two queen beds have Egyptian linens, robes, direct-dial cordless phones with voicemail, LCD 32-inch wall-mounted televisions, mini bars and safes. As of 2010 a room with two queen beds ranges in price from $179 to over $400 depending on season and room view.

Tower23 Hotel

4551 Ocean Blvd

San Diego, CA 92109

858-270-2323

tower23hotel.com

Tags: queen beds, with queen, room with, room with queen, with queen beds, 2010 room, 2010 room with

Convert Crib To Toddler Bed

Convert Crib to Toddler Bed

Baby furniture can be expensive, so it makes sense to purchase pieces that can grow along with the baby. Convertible cribs are popular for this reason. Converting these cribs is easy to do, and most of the time they do not cost nearly as much to convert as it would to purchase a new piece of furniture.

Instructions

1. Remove all toys, blankets, sheets and any other objects from the mattress. Set these things toward the edge of the room so that you do not trip on them.

2. Remove the mattress from the crib frame and place it towards the edge of the room.

3. Make sure that the floor of the room is free of clutter. Move the crib into the center of the room.

4. Following the instruction manual for your specific crib, remove the crib's front rail.

5. Move the mattress rails to the lowest position.

6. Screw on the toddler rail from the toddler conversion kit that matches your crib.

7. Push the frame for the toddler bed to the desired position in the room. Place the mattress back on the rails of the bed.

8. Make the bed with sheets, blankets, bumper or any other linen you used in your baby’s crib.

Tags: Convert Crib, Convert Crib Toddler, Crib Toddler, edge room

Decorate A Mission Style Large Entry Foyer

A fruit centerpiece is all that is needed to add color to the foyer.

Mission-style decor is based on a period in the late 19th to early 20th century. This period is also known as the Arts and Crafts period. The furniture is sometimes called Stickley furniture for Gustav Stickley, who was a furniture manufacturer. This decor is simple but not boring and uses basic wood furniture but lots of color. Specially designed furniture for this period is available. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Lay flooring that mimics what would have been found in the Mission era. Natural wood floors or synthetic look-alikes, limestone or slate flooring was common. A modern twist to the style can include mosaic tiles.

2. Paint the walls with custom paint that mimics the colors and texture of the period. Those paints used natural pigments that have earthy tones. You can also opt for wallpaper done in a contemporary take on the period, such as floral wallpaper in muted, natural hues.

3. Add simple furniture to the foyer. Use furniture that fits in the room, such as a narrow table and small, wooden chair. Oak was commonly used in this period but you don't need to have oak-colored furniture. Different colors were made by mixing ammonia or other solutions to the stain. Even pinkish hues were available during the Mission period.

4. Add a simple, flush-mounted light fixture to the center of the foyer. Choose a light fixture that has a square, cylinder or octagon shape and soft light. Simple chandelier-style light fixtures were also available as well as those that hang on chains.

5. Decorate the foyer with a simple centerpiece on the table, such as a vase of flowers or bowl of oranges. Hang one or two pieces of art on the wall but don't clutter the wall.

Tags: light fixture, Stickley furniture, that mimics, this period

Convert A Portable Circular Saw Into A Table Saw

Convert a circular saw into a table saw with a specially designed table or one you make yourself, slotted to allow the saw blade and guard to protrude through the top. While a circular saw is not designed to make the precision cuts a table saw is capable of, it can be used to rip boards, make rough cuts and for other light-duty applications. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Get a power tool accessory table from one of the suppliers listed in the Resources section, or build your own. The table should have a rectangular slot cut in it 8 inches long and 3/4 inch wide to accommodate the circular saw blade and guard. Make sure any table you use is stable and wide enough to accept the stock you plan to cut.

2. Mount the circular saw on the underside of the table so the saw blade passes through the slot and the saw blade and guard protrude through the upper side of the table. Secure the saw with the brackets supplied on a ready-made table, or use wood screws to secure it to a home-built table. Make sure the screws do not penetrate the upper surface of the table.

3. Measure the width of the finished board you intend to cut. For example, if you want to end up with a board 6 inches wide, measure 6 inches from the blade on the left side of the table as you face the saw from the foot of the table. Make two marks at the 6-inch measuring point; one at the front of the blade and the other at the rear of the blade. These parallel marks will allow you to set your guide board properly.

4. Plug the saw into the extension cord and move the foot-controlled switch into a position where you can turn the saw on and off while cutting the board.

5. Place the 1-inch-by-2-inch guide board in line with the two marks and clamp the board at each end of the table. Start the saw and slide the board you're cutting along the guide board into the blade of the saw. Slowly guide the board through the saw up to the last 12 inches. Use a push stick to finish pushing the board through the saw.

Tags: guide board, blade guard, blade guard protrude, board through, guard protrude

Get Sansha Faction

In "EVE Online," your faction standing is everything. Earning loyalty points with NPC factions takes hard work and a lot of time, but the rewards are well worth your trouble. If you want to increase your standing with Sansha's Nation, you've got your work cut out for you. Sansha's Nation is frowned upon by most factions within the EVE universe. However, with patience and diligence, you can get your standing up as high as you please.

Instructions

1. Complete missions for Sansha's Nation agents. Performing tasks for factions is the only way to gain loyalty points. NPC agents can be found within territories in the Stain region, which is controlled by Sansha's Nation. The more missions you complete, the higher your standing with Sansha's Nation will become.

2. Avoid destroying Sansha's Nation ships. While EVE Online can instill a sense of paranoia when it comes to approaching spacecraft, make sure you are not firing on any ships that are tagged as Sansha's Nation. As you might imagine, factions do not look kindly upon individuals who shoot down their ships.

3. Do not complete quests for rival factions. Sansha's Nation is not well-liked by other NPC factions within "EVE Online." Completing tasks for the following factions will decrease your loyalty points with Sansha's Nation.

Amarr Empire

Caldari State

Ammatar Mandate

Khanid Kingdom

Mordu's Legion Command

CONCORD Assembly

Thukker Tribe

Angel Cartel

Serpentis

The InterBus

The Society

The Syndicate

Conversely, performing missions for the Blood Raider Covenant and Guristas Pirates is approved of by Sansha's Nation.

Tags: Sansha Nation, loyalty points, with Sansha, with Sansha Nation, your standing, factions within

Make A Room Into Noah'S Ark For Kids

If you hang a Noah's Ark mural, keep furnishings and linens simple.

Lions and tigers and monkeys -- oh, my! Just make sure there are only two of each. Your precocious child may hold you to the story of Noah's mission to safeguard pairs of critters when the rains came. Kids tend to want it all, but remind your little one that having two of everything on the planet would include creepy crawlers that could lead to nightmares. Ask for her recommendations so you know which animals she likes best. After all, she's the one who will be living in this adorable paradise. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Paint the room (ceiling included) light blue so the background represents the heaven and seawater that held the ark afloat during those dark days and nights. Use sponges or rags to roll clouds onto the ceiling and when the paint dries, affix glow-in-the-dark plastic stars that will "light" your child's night sky after you issue your standard reminder, "Lights out, please."

2. Create a headboard that symbolizes God's promise: a rainbow. There are several ways to tackle this so pick one that matches your budget and skill level: 1) Make a template of a half circle that's as wide as your child's bed, trace it on the wall and paint rings of color to make a rainbow. 2) Stitch a cloth rainbow using quilting or trapunto techniques on fabric stuffed with batting and mount it above the bed. 3) If you're a carpentry pro, cut a half circle of plywood, paint and seal the rainbow, and hang it over the bed.

3. Cover one of the four walls with a mural to make one bold statement rather than purchasing individual lithographs and decorative wall hangings symbolizing the animals making the journey on Noah's Ark. Myriad wallpaper companies market enchanting murals of varying sizes -- some are works of fine art, others are cartoon-friendly and there are plenty of wall-size photographs of undersea life and real animals roaming African savannas that will light up the room with life.

4. Buy furniture that complements the room. If you've used dramatic wallpaper and ceiling clouds, keep everything else simple. Roughly hewn furniture symbolizing Noah's expertise with a hammer and saw adds understated touches in the bed or crib, chest of drawers and other furnishings you'll use in your child's Noah's Ark room.

5. Finish the room with decorative accessories and linens chosen for their ability to bring harmony and reinforce accent colors in the room. Pay attention to the "stimulation factor." There's a delicate balance between a room that's entertaining and welcoming and one that's so cluttered that your child won't know where to look first.

Tags: your child, half circle, room with, that will, that will light

Import The Canadian Pontiac Vibe

Canadian vehicles started being manufactured to be identical to United States version vehicles in 1988, but many of these vehicles do not have a U.S. emissions label in the engine compartment. If the Canadian Pontiac Vibe does not have a U.S. emissions label, the car is not on the list of Canadian vehicles considered by EPA to conform with U.S. emissions requirements. So to import the car into the U.S., you need a letter from the manufacturer's U.S. representative or the Canadian manufacturer's representative.

Instructions

1. Obtain a letter from the manufacturer's U.S. representative. A list of available representatives is available on the EPA website. The U.S. representative should be able to tell you contact his Canadian counterpart, if you want to obtain a letter from the manufacturer's Canadian representative. The letter should state when the car was manufactured, and whether it meets all U.S. emission requirements with the exception of labeling or warranty." The letter must be signed. If you get the letter from a Canadian representative, the letter must be signed by the emission compliance department.

2. Choose a customs port of entry that will be convenient for you to pick up your Canadian Pontiac Vibe. A list of ports by state is available on the U.S Customs and Border Protection website. If you are importing for resale you need to be a registered importer or become a registered importer.

3. Make arrangements with the shipper or carrier to send the Canadian Pontiac Vibe.

4. Present to customs the sales receipt and car registration papers.

5. Give customs the original bill of lading from the shipper or carrier you used. The shipper or carrier you use should already be aware of customs requirements.

6. Complete Environmental Protection Agency form 3520-1. This form will be given to you by customs. On the form, use declaring code "EE" and attach the letter you received from the manufacturer's representative. If you are importing the car for resale, the engine compartment must contain the manufacturers label of conformity in English. The label states emission control information, engine size, engine type, tuneup and adjustment information. For detailed information on the label requirements go to the Government Printing Office website under Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 86.093-35.

7. Complete Department of Transportation form HS-7. This form is required by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. Customs will provide you with this form.

8. Pay duty and taxes to the customs cashier. The duty and tax amount will be determined based on the price you paid for the car. For a Pontiac Vibe, duty is 2.5 percent of the purchase price. You can pay duty by cash (U.S. currency only), personal check drawn on a U.S. bank, travelers check, government check, or money order. Some locations will accept credit cards, but those locations are not listed so you will have to ask Customs in advance, at the location of your car's arrival.

9. Pick up your Canadian Pontiac Vibe from the inspection area. Ask your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for temporary license plates. Get a list of the paperwork that your state's DMV requires from U.S. Customs to register your car, so you can receive the paperwork at time of inspection.

Tags: Pontiac Vibe, Canadian Pontiac, Canadian Pontiac Vibe, from manufacturer, letter from, manufacturer representative, from manufacturer representative

How Find Information On Honeoye Furniture Co

Arts and Crafts furniture is known for its simple use of wood.

The Honeoye Falls Furniture Company was based out of Honeoye Falls, New York. It was part of the Arts and Crafts Movement design style, which took place between 1860 and 1939 and started in England. Arts and Crafts furniture is made from wood, and is characterized by its simplicity and reliance on traditional craftsmanship. Honeoye Falls Furniture made bookcases, tables and chairs. Their furniture can still be found for sell in antique shops and by private collectors. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Contact the Honeoye Falls, New York Historical Society. Ask them for information regarding the history of their community and the Honeoye Falls Furniture Company.

2. Visit your local antique shop or dealer that specializes in furniture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which includes the Arts and Crafts Movement and ask them for additional information about the company and its products.

3. Look for Honeoye Furniture in an antique furniture collector's guide. There are several available that specialize in American Arts and Crafts furniture.

Tags: Arts Crafts, Honeoye Falls, Arts Crafts furniture, Crafts furniture, Falls Furniture

Connect Pvc To A Clay Pipe

PVC won't just screw on to a clay pipe.

When you need to connect PVC to any type or size of clay pipe, it cannot be done by merely going to your local hardware store and getting the correct fittings that screw together. Instead, use what is known throughout the industry as a mission coupling. A mission coupling is just a thick rubber pipe that is secured by band clamps and uniquely suitable to join virtually any pipes together that are of different materials. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Press the ends of the pipes together and make sure they line up properly. The diameter of each pipe must not differ more than 1/8 inch. You may need to add expanders or reducers to the PVC pipe to make the joint compatible.

2. Slide one side of the Fernco 5000 series RC mission coupling or its equivalent over the clay pipe. Position the mission coupling so that it only slides about half its length onto the pipe. Use your flat screwdriver and carefully tighten the last band clamp on the coupling, securing it to the clay pipe, turning the clamp-tightening screw in a clockwise direction. If this is an unfired clay pipe, be extra cautious so you don't shatter it.

3. Place the PVC pipe end against the opening of the coupling and carefully slide it in. Butt the ends of the PVC pipe and clay pipe together inside the coupling.

4. Push and hold the PVC pipe firmly in place. As you did on the clay pipe, tighten the last band clamp. This will keep the two pipes from separating while you continue.

5. Tighten every band clamp by first beginning on the clay side and tightening a clamp, then moving back to the PVC side to tighten a clamp. Do this by tightening a clamp on alternating sides until all the clamps are secure.

Tags: clay pipe, mission coupling, band clamp, last band, last band clamp

The Plans & Measurements For Design A Dining Room Table & Chairs

Use the proper measurements to create a good plan to build a dining room table and chairs.

A dining room table can be any size. It is the measurements, however, that are most important for designing and then making a table that can be used. There are many different aspects to consider when planning a dining room table. You will need to decide the size of each place setting as well as how much room you want in the middle of the table. Also take into consideration how much room you want around the table and the dimensions of the room in which you plan to place it. Once you have sketched out the plan, you will be ready to add properly calculated measurements.

Instructions

1. Draw a scale map of the room that will hold the dining table and chairs. This will help you to determine the space available and subsequently, the measurements of the table. Obviously, the room size is very important. Once you have determined the room size it will help you choose the length and width of the table and the amount of surrounding space. At that point you are ready to insert the table measurements into the room diagram to make sure the chosen dimension for the table fits the room.

2. Draw the room to scale on a piece of 8.5 by 11 paper. As an example, if the room is 20 feet by 15 feet, for our scale drawing one foot is equal to one inch. Reduce the measurements by half to make the room fit the paper. The resulting scaled room is now 10 inches by 7.5 inches. When inserting table dimensions to the scale drawing convert the feet to inches and divide the number by two.

3. Sketch out the shape of the dining room table. Many dining room tables are square or rectangular. It is much easier to calculate the dimensions for a four-sided table than it is for one that is round or has curves.

4. Determine how much room you want to allot for each person who will be sitting at the table. A minimum of 23 inches per person is recommended. This per person space refers to the amount of room needed from the left side of one person to that individual's right side. If you want to allow for some extra room, 30 inches per person works as well. Use the chosen measurement when determining the table dimensions.

5. Figure in the space needed across the table for each setting as well as the space needed in the middle of the table to accommodate dishes and food. This usually requires at least 12 inches of space. The width of the interior part of the table, that holds the dishes and centerpiece, can range from 30 inches to extra-large 44 inches. Therefore, with a place setting on each side the width of a rectangular table can range from 54 inches to 68 inches. For a square table this width would also be the length of the table. A table with only 30 inches for the dishes and centerpiece can be very cramped. This consideration may give way, however, to concern over the size of the room the table will be placed in. When choosing the width of the table, take into account the width of the room the table will go into and how much room you want on the center of the table. Inserting this width into your room drawing can help you determine the appropriate size of the table. Using the scale from step 3, a 68 inch width is also 5.6 feet. Drawing the table to 5.6 feet scales down to a table that is 2.8 inches in width on paper. A 54-inch or 4.5-foot wide table scales down to 2.25 inches on paper.

6. Calculate the length of the table based on the number of place settings on each side as well as a place setting on each end. From step 3, the length of a place setting is 30 inches. The measurement for the place setting at the end adds on 12 inches because the orientation is different from settings on the sides of the table. If you have two place settings on each side and allow 30 inches per setting then the length of the table is 84 inches or 7 feet long. Again, this number will need to be adjusted, depending on the room measurements, particularly if the room is very small. See how the length matches up to your scale room. A 7-foot long table scales down to 3.5 inches on paper. This easily fits the length of our room.

7. Take into account the space needed for people to sit, walk around, and push back from the table. A comfortable space to push a chair back from the table is 36 inches, though when individuals push back the chair and cross their legs, 44 inches is more accommodating. If the table needs to be handicap accessible then 54 inches around the table is necessary. These measurements also need to take into account the space needed to walk around the table when people are seated at it.

8. Choose a height for the dining room table. A standard table is 30 inches high. Generally, 29 inches are provided by the table legs while the thickness of the table provides the additional inch. If you use a thicker table top then simply shorten the legs to compensate.

9. Plan the height of the dining room chairs to match the height of the table. A standard table is 30 inches off the ground, thus it will require chairs with seats 16 to 17 inches from the floor. If the table height is greater than 30 inches you will need to increase the seat height to match the table dimensions. Choose dimensions that you find comfortable for the chair back and seat. Standard seat measurements are 15.5 to 18 inches for seat width, 16 to 18 inches for depth and 18 to 20 inches from the chair seat to the top of the backrest. Typically, chairs found at the ends of the table have arm rests, while the other chairs do not.

Tags: dining room, place setting, room table, much room, much room want

Commercial And Industrial Design Schools

Commercial and Industrial designers are responsible for the inclusion of new technology into a variety of products.

Commercial and industrial design are fast paced and growing fields. They involve the design and manufacturing of furniture, household appliances, commercial office equipment as well as a variety of additional products. Students interested in the fields of commercial and industrial design will find themselves graduating into a career that is in high demand. Industrial and commercial design professionals are required to implement the newest and best technologies into their products. There are several colleges offering degree programs in commercial and industrial design.

Rochester Institute of Technology

Students at Rochester Institute of Technology are among the best in the country. RIT has gained national recognition as being one of the leaders in career-oriented education. Several bachelor's and master's programs are available at RIT, including programs in commercial and industrial design. Out-of-state tuition at the Rochester Institute of Technology is just under $23,000.

Rochester Institute of Technology

One Lomb Memorial Drive

Rochester, NY 14623-5603

585-475-2411

rit.edu

Virginia Tech

Founded in 1872, Virginia Tech is located just outside of Roanoke, Virginia. Students interested in the fields of commercial and industrial design can enroll in a bachelor's degree program or a master's degree program. What's even better about Virginia Tech is it's affordability. In-state tuition is approximately $6,500, and out-of-state tuition is just under $18,000.

Virginia Polytechnic and State University

Blacksburg, VA 24061-0002

540-231-4000

vt.edu

University of Illinois

The University of Illinois is located in three cities in Illinois including Springfield, Chicago, and Urbana-Champaign. With a student population of approximately 15,500, the University of Illinois's mission is to transform lives through education. Students interested in commercial and industrial design will find themselves mainly on the campus in Urbana-Champaign.

University of Illinois

School of Art and Design

143 Art and Design Building

408 E. Peabody Drive

Champaign, IL 61820

art.illinois.edu

Tags: industrial design, Institute Technology, Rochester Institute, Rochester Institute Technology, University Illinois, commercial industrial design, Students interested

Collect Antique Muskets

Gun enthusiasts and history buffs enjoy collecting antique muskets. There is something satisfying about holding a piece of history in your hands and thinking about all the people throughout the years who have held that musket. If this describes how you feel, you may wish to start an antique musket collection.

Instructions

1. Know the blue book value of the antique musket you own or plan to purchase. The "Blue Book of Gun Values" is the standard pricing guide in the industry. Get one and look up the prices.

2. Determine the history of your musket. This must be documented on paper and the older the paperwork you can find, the better. A history of the weapon will greatly increase the price of your antique musket.

3. Rate the condition of your musket and be honest. The National Rifle Association's Condition Standards for antique guns goes from excellent to poor. Read the blue book to determine the characteristics that put a musket in each category and decide where yours fits.

4. Beware of the impostor. Muskets are in short supply these days, and creating replicas for battle reenactments and collections has become a big business. While some replications are worth money, the serious collector buys authentic antique muskets.

5. Have your money ready. Muskets in good condition with a confirmed and documented history can sell in the six-figure range.

Tags: antique musket, antique muskets, history your, that musket, your musket

Open The Church On "Resident Evil 4"

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Resident Evil 4" is a 2005 third-person post-apocalyptic shooter from Capcom that received good reviews and strong support from fans at release. In the game you play as Leon Kennedy, a Secret Service agent tasked with rescuing Ashley Graham, the president's daughter. You fight your way through hordes of zombie-like creatures infected by the "t-virus." In the first act, you find a locked church, and after locating the round insignia key in act two and fighting a boss, you are finally able to get inside the church and continue your mission.

Instructions

The Round Insignia

1. Enter the dam area at the beginning of chapter 2-1 and fight past two zombies. This is after your boss fight with Del Lago. Continue on until you reach the river.

2. Shoot the chains that hold up the three crates over the river. Use the chains to work your way across the river.

3. Climb the ladder at the southern dock and pull the lever you find.

4. Head back toward the waterfall at the river and fight off the spawning zombies.

5. Enter the cave from the center crate. Grab the round insignia in a door at the end of the cave.

6. Climb into the boat in the cave to head back to the merchant you met earlier in the game.

The Church

7. Fight the El Gigante boss. Dodge its attacks carefully and shoot to weaken it. Once you have done enough damage, El Gigante's plaga (a parasite caused by the t-virus) emerges from its back. Continue shooting the plaga to take out El Gigante.

8. Go back to the church area you were at before you fought the Del Lago boss. Watch out for wolves that charge you.

9. Approach the front door of the church. The screen displays the prompts for you to follow to unlock the door with the round insignia.

Tags: Resident Evil, round insignia

Hotels Near Solvang

Solvang, a city located on the central coast of California, features sunny weather throughout the year. The city, which sits in Santa Barbara county, serves as a popular destination for going wine tasting because of wineries and vineyards located in Solvang and nearby cities. Solvang's parks offer fishing, biking, hiking or horseback riding at different times of the year. The city is also home to community theaters, local art galleries and locally-owned shops. Hotels in and near Solvang are within a short drive of the city's cultural and recreational attractions.

Solvang Hotels

Solvang's hotels are within a short distance of outdoor attractions such as Hans Christian Andersen Park, a facility with a skate park, and the Cuchuma Lake Nature Center, an area offering fishing, hiking and boating. The Inn at Petersen Village has a garden area with a pond and a small waterfall and serves a daily European-style breakfast. The Hotel Corque, a boutique hotel owned by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Mission Indians, allows guests to use the fitness center at its sister property, the Chumash Casino Resort, or purchase passes to Performance Fitness, a nearby fitness center with jazzercise and spinning classes. Solvang hotels feature in-room amenities such as refrigerators and microwaves, I-pod docking stations, balconies, patios and flat-screen TVs. Solvang also features a museum with exhibits on children's author Hans Christian Anderson, a museum dedicated to Danish artwork and history and a local theater that puts on plays and musicals. Many Solvang bed-and-breakfasts have Danish themes, some with on-site restaurants or spas, and guest rooms with fireplaces or hot tubs.

Santa Ynez Hotels

Accommodations in Santa Ynez are located within three miles of Solvang, and within a short drive of a Santa Ynez history museum with exhibits on early Santa Ynez settlers and Chumash Indians, plus an art museum in Los Olivos featuring landscape artwork. The Santa Ynez Inn offers guest rooms with Victorian-style furniture, bathrobes and slippers. The bed and breakfast provides guests with daily hors d'oeuvres and desserts. The Chumash Casino Resort features a casino with daily poker tournaments, a gift shop with pottery and sculptures, a fitness center with yoga and Pilates classes, and guest rooms with free bottled water. The resort regularly hosts live entertainment, such as boxing matches, live musicians or singers or magic acts.

Buellton Hotels

Hotels and inns in Buellton are about 3.6 miles from Solvang. These facilities are within 30 minutes of the Pacific Ocean and Solvang area attractions such as Ostrich Land and Quicksilver Ranch, a facility dedicated to miniature horses. The city's only inn hotel, Pea Soup Andersen's Inn, offers packages that include tours of local wineries, theater tickets or golf course sessions. The inn has a bocce ball court and a putting green. The Days Inn Buellton-Solvang offers a game room with video games and a heated outdoor swimming pool. Guest rooms at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott come with down pillows and luxury soap products. The hotel also features a fitness center with a sauna, an on-site Starbucks cafe, an American-style pub and a casual-dining restaurant with outdoor seating. Most of Buellton's hotels are pet-friendly, but verify terms before making reservations.

Lompoc Hotels

Lompoc's hotels are about 21 miles from Solvang, only a short drive from La Purisima Mission State Historic Park, a late-19th-century Victorian-style farmhouse, plus the Lompoc Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Jolama and Ocean beaches, and the Cabrillo High School Aquarium. The Best Western Plus O'Cairns Inn has a DVD library and guest rooms with flat-screen TVs. Embassy Suites Lompoc-Central Coast, an extended-stay hotel, offers suites with pull-out couches, armchairs and name-brand bath products. The hotel serves hors d'oeuvres and alcoholic beverages at a nightly reception.

Tags: Santa Ynez, fitness center, guest rooms, guest rooms with, rooms with

Make Bedroom Curtains

Add a splash of color and style by making your own bedroom curtains.

You wouldn't believe how easy it is to make bedroom curtains. You don't even have to sew a single stitch if you don't want to. All you need is some basic equipment and a vision to make your own drapery panels. In a couple hours you can turn a boring bedroom into a warm, inviting space with your own custom-made creations. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. HARDWARE. The first step to make bedroom curtains is shopping. You need two items: a drapery rod and drapery clips. Find a decorative drapery rod for each window that you want to cover. When you choose a rod, be sure that you can use the rod with drapery clips, clips that will hang on the rod and hold the drapery fabric. The number of clips you'll need to buy depends on how much swag you want to see on your curtains. (Do you want the curtains to hand straight and tight underneath the rod or would you prefer to let the fabric sag a bit for a softer effect? It's up to you and your style.)

2. INSTALL. Next, go home and install your new curtain rods. It is important to hang the rods before you buy fabric for the drapes because the height of the rod will determine the length of your drapery panel. Just follow the directions included with your rods.

3. MEASURE. After you've installed your drapery rods, hang the empty clips on the rods. Using measuring tape, measure from the bottom of the hanging drapery clips to the floor. Write this measurement down since you will use it to determine the length of your fabric.

4. FABRIC. You need fabric to make bedroom curtains, so now's the time to go shopping for it. You will want to choose Home Decor fabric as it will be the appropriate weight for drapery. Home Dec fabric is usually 60 inches wide, and this width will make for a more luxurious and professional-looking window panel. To determine how much fabric you need to buy, take your measurement from step 3 and add 2 inches. This will be the final length of the panel you cut at home. But don't get just the amount of fabric you need; get an extra eighth or quarter of a yard just so you have some room to make a mistake later. (See tip below on choose fabric.)

5. MEASURE TWICE, CUT ONCE. When you get your fabric home, you'll need to make precise cuts. Remember that the length of each panel will be your measurement from step 3 plus 2 inches. If you don't have a cutting table, you can use your measuring tape to determine the appropriate length. Next use your yardstick to draw a straight cutting line (using sharpie marker or disappearing fabric pen if you have it) across the fabric. Cut the fabric carefully along your line. (See tip on cutting fabric below.)

6. HEM. Next you will hem the fabric to make bedroom curtains. Get out your iron to preheat it. Turn the top of the panel down by 1 inch. Iron the fabric so the turned-down hem stays down. Repeat the process on the bottom and sides of the panel, turning all sides in by 1 inch and ironing.

7. SEW (OR DON'T). You can choose either to sew the fabric or to use a no-sew alternative called Stitch Witchery to hold down your hems. (Skip to Step 8 if you will not be sewing.) If you're going to sew, place pins at regular intervals along the hem so that the fabric stays down as you move it through the machine. Follow the 5/8 inch mark on the plate below your presser foot and straight-stitch along all four edges of the drapery panel. (Skip to Step 9)

8. FUSE. If you're using Stitch Witchery, you'll be using this fabric tape to fuse both sides of your hem together instead of holding down the hem with regular stitches. First you'll need to cut strips of Stitch Witchery that are the same lengths as the tops and sides of your panels. Next, open up your top and bottom ironed hems, and lay the Stitch Witchery tape inside them. Fold the fabric back over the tape, and iron according to Stitch Witchery package instructions. Repeat the process with your side panels. Now you have professional-looking hems. You never have to sew a single stitch to make bedroom curtains!

9. CLIP. Apply your drapery clips to the top of your curtain panels. Space the clips as closely or tightly as you like. The amount of space will determine how the fabric droops off of the rod. A lot of droopy fabric looks softer while less droop (or none at all) looks clean and modern.

10. HANG. Finally you are ready to hang your drapery clips from the decorative rod and enjoy your new custom-made bedroom curtains.

Tags: bedroom curtains, drapery clips, make bedroom, Stitch Witchery, your drapery, make bedroom curtains, will determine

1920s Living Rooms

Home decor in the 1920s reflected the changes in society as the late Victorian and Edwardian eras gave way to the Jazz Age. As a result, homes went from one extreme to the other, from cozy cottage decorating to high-gloss, glamorous Art-Deco designs. While the living rooms of the 1920s were much simpler than ours today -- no TVs, computers or sectional sofas -- the styles of the time make for an ideal decorative statement. Does this Spark an idea?

Traditional Style

Although the 1920s was a time of social and cultural change, the classic look of traditional decor was a favorite home design. Typified by classic furniture styles, such as Georgian and Chippendale, featuring muted, elegant colors like wedgewood blue, cream and sage green accented by white painted trim, traditional style's perennial appeal can be traced to the interiors of the 1920s.

The 1920s traditional living room would have featured a sofa in an understated print or solid, an assortment of wingback or Georgian-style chairs, plenty of occasional tables for card playing and other hobbies and oriental rugs. The traditional room of the Jazz Age was often accented by tasteful curios such as Greek or Asian accessories.

Cottage Style

Although the 1920s are associated with the glitz and glamor of New York and Hollywood, two of the most common architectural home styles of the era were the Arts and Crafts bungalow and the Cotswold cottage, both of which took simple, rustic designs and updated them for the then modern home.

The casual, homey appearance of both the Arts and Crafts bungalow and the Cotswold cottage lent themselves to simple, comfortable interiors. The living room in a bungalow or cottage-style home of the era would have featured large, comfortable sofas and chairs in floral, plaid or other prints, ottomans for taking a load off, occasional tables for hobbies and games and plenty of personalized details, such as handmade samplers on the walls, family photographs and floral arrangements.

Art Deco

The decor style most associated with the Jazz Age, Art Deco heralded the new, modern era of fast cars, airplanes, radio and movies. Typified by the sleek, almost stark use of white, black, gray and red, an Art Deco living room would have featured minimalist furniture, such as low leather sofas, banquettes and chairs, iron, chrome or glass tables, fluffy flokati or other plush rugs and modern art and sculpture for accessories. Perhaps the most radical departure from previous decor styles was Art Deco's dramatic use of open space; rooms that would once have been stuffed full of furniture and knickknacks were now pared down to the essentials in heretofore unused materials, such as chrome, glass, suede and plastic.

Tags: have featured, living room, would have, would have featured, Although 1920s, Arts Crafts

About Amish Bedroom Furniture

Amish craftsmen create quality bedroom furniture.

Materials and workmanship can make the difference between a bedroom set that lasts for years and one that does not. Amish bedroom sets are heirlooms that endure for generations. According to Dr. Bruce Tharp, professor of designed objects at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, any claim to "Amish" is indeed a broad generalization. There are over a dozen formal types of Amish and countless subtypes. Common characteristics, however, are found in Amish furnishings. Does this Spark an idea?

Design

Amish bedroom furniture aesthetics tend toward country design. Farmhouse, mission and colonial styles are common. Steve Edwards, owner of The Amish Furniture and Trim Company in Spring Grove, Illinois, works directly with Amish craftsmen and says they are also willing to create custom sets using clients’ unique ideas. Furniture can be altered to fit a room. Even though the Amish would not use ornate furniture themselves, they will produce it. They listen to the market and make just about anything that will sell.

Materials

Amish furniture is made from hardwoods. According to Dr. Tharp, red oak is easily the most common wood used in Amish bedroom furniture. It is sturdy, less expensive, and appeals to the Amish frugal nature. It will not be taken as "fancy," which could be seen as showing off. Edwards’ customers are offered standard choices such as birch, maple, walnut, alder, and mahogany. Customers can request other special order or cut wood species as well.

Construction

According to Edwards, only "Older Order Amish" make furniture simply using hand tools. The process is too time-consuming to result in profit. Most employ alternatively-powered tools, including table saws and planers. Amish will generally not use electric tools. They opt for a belt or pneumatic system that is gas or diesel powered. Each Amish community establishes its own rules to allow members to keep their beliefs, yet still produce furniture in a timely manner. Wood selection, layout and assembly are still done by hand.

Sales

Amish people used to make furniture just for other Amish, but began to sell it elsewhere when the general public recognized its craftsmanship. Plus, according to Dr. Tharp, many people are anxious to support their local, historic Amish communities and buying furniture from them is one easy way to do that. There are Amish furniture trade shows in Ohio and Indiana where buyers can see a lot of individual craftsmen in one place. Not all Amish participate in those. Furniture is also often sold through brokers to stores and outlets.

Quality

Amish craftsmanship is outstanding with great attention to detail and material, Edwards says. The wood for bedroom pieces is kiln-dried for proper moisture content. It is then sanded and smoothed inside and out. Edwards says the Amish use dovetail joints in their dresser drawer boxes. The drawer slides run smoothly.

Tags: Amish bedroom, Amish bedroom furniture, Amish craftsmen, Amish furniture, bedroom furniture

When To Fertilize Pine Trees

Young pine trees and established ones need fertilizer for extra nutrients.

Fertilizer supplies trees with essential nutrients often needed when a plant is young. Besides feeding the trees, fertilizers can also change the soil's constitution, adding more acidity, which pine tree's crave. It is important to know when to fertilize pine trees to prevent over or under-fertilizing a growing tree. Does this Spark an idea?

Planting

When you plant pine trees, use fertilizer. A slow-release fertilizer, which comes in tablet form, is the ideal product, according to horticulturists at the North Carolina State University Agricultural and Life Sciences Extension. Because all young trees are vulnerable to over-fertilization, note whether other fertilizers are left in the soil before planting as this could damage the sapling. In the tree's second year, and in the following years, add 2 to 4 pounds of fertilizer for every 100 square feet of the pine garden or bed area. For pines growing out in fields, apply approximately 2 pounds of fertilizer for every inch of the tree trunk's diameter. For example, if the trunk width is 20 inches, add 40 pounds of fertilizer.

Growth-Spurt

The majority of trees undergo a growth spurt during their first spring, and a slower growth period in the summer and autumn, according to horticulturists at the University of Minnesota Extension. For the first spring growth spurt, supply the pine tree with a nutrient-rich fertilizer before the growth occurs. In the Midwest, the ideal time to fertilize is early May, just before the full spring season. For pine trees growing on sandy soils, split the applications: apply once in early spring, such as March; and again in late May. Note that if a tree shows yellowing, or slow or stunted growth, add fertilizer at any time during the growing season as this indicates the tree may be nutrient-deprived.

One Year Old

After a pine tree has grown outdoors for one year, supplement the pine with nourishing fertilizer in the fall. Sprinkle a standard fertilizer or a specific formula for acidic trees on top of the soil under the tree. Toss the fertilizer one to one and a half times from the distance of the trunk to the furthest edges of the branch canopy, called the drip line. For example, if the distance from trunk to drip line is 40 feet, sprinkle fertilizer 20 feet beyond the drip line, using about 1 cup of fertilizer per tree. Continue this every year for two or three years. After four or five years of growth, pines do not need regular fertilization due to natural decomposition of pine needles and other organic matter.

Gray Pine

Also called California foothill pine, foothill pine, bull pine and digger pine, the gray pine is a common, bushy pine tree in California and the western U.S. deserts. For container-grown gray pines, fertilize the tree during the main summer growing season using a balanced fertilizer. When the growing season stops, use a finisher formulation of water-soluble fertilizer to supply the pine with necessary nutrients and maintain soil fertility, according to the USDA. After raising and fertilizing the gray pine in a container, plant the tree outside in late winter or early spring when the soil is damp.

Tags: pine tree, drip line, growing season, pounds fertilizer, according horticulturists