Friday, January 31, 2014

Painting Suggestions For Country Houses

Give your house a country look.


Country style homes boast a comforting, folksy and informal aesthetic that begins with the first layer of paint. Whether you live out in the country or just want to make your home feel welcoming with a rural look, use cheery colors to create the right backdrop for handmade crafts, wooden furniture and other decorative country elements.


Color Selection


Homeowners often play it safe by using neutral colors, but country decor favors warm tones. Use a variety of colors, such as mild blues and greens, deep burgundy or maroon to paint your walls. Use different colors in each room to give your house variety. Decorate rooms using both adjacent and complementary colors to blend with your walls. For example, if you paint a room blue, fill it with objects in the blue-green through blue-violet range as well as orange, the complementary color, to give the room a lot of visual interest.


Animal Stencils


Decorate your dishes, your walls or your counters with stencils of barn animals, farmhouses and other country-themed images. Draw the stencils on cardstock or contact paper and carefully cut out the shape with a craft knife. If you are using contact paper, remove the backing and lay it flat on the object you want to stencil. Otherwise, just tape the stencil in place. Use spray paint to stencil on walls, counters and other parts of your house or enamel paint pens to create dishwasher-safe designs on top of dishes. To create a border, paint two thin lines near the bottom, top or edge of a wall and fill it in with stencils spaced regularly between the lines.


Rustic Furniture


Use paint to turn simple chunks of unfinished wood into cabin-style furniture. Cut a 2.5 foot section of a tree stump. Coat it with several layers of brightly colored paint, or use varnish and stain to give it a more natural look. The paint coating will transform it from a hunk of wood to an authentic country-style stool. For a rustic table or desk, glue or nail an unfinished board on top of two low bookshelves. Paint the whole thing blue or white, or stain it a deep cherry or mahogany to give it the look of your choice.



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Decorate A Wall With Sherwinwilliams Offers

Sherwin-Williams is a go-to paint store for many homeowners because of the wide range of paints and supplies that they offer. When you are thinking about repainting a room, it may feel difficult to decide on a color palette that you think will work in the space. Aside from the wide range of paint shades to choose from, Sherwin-Williams offers plenty of color ideas and the use of selection tools to help you find the best paint for your room.


Instructions


1. Look around the room for color inspiration when deciding paint the space. The paint color you choose should complement permanent items in the room, including flooring, wooden or stone accents, and any furniture pieces.


2. Upload a photo of the room you want to paint to the Sherwin-Williams color visualizer found on its website. This tool allows you to virtually paint your room with any color the store offers, ensuring that you get an idea of what looks good in the space. The tool also offers lighter and darker versions of your paint selection so that you find the best shade for your walls, trim or ceiling.


3. Choose an appropriate paint sheen depending on the room type. Flat or matte paint disguises any blemishes within the room due to its lack of sheen, making it ideal for walls. Satin sheen has minimal gloss and is ideal for trim or rooms that are prone to needing regular cleaning, like a bathroom or kitchen. Gloss sheen is glossier than satin, and can be used for doors or trim. High gloss is shiny and adds richness to the room; due to its high reflectivity, however, it is best be used on trim or entry doors. Gloss and high gloss tend to show imperfections more than flat or satin sheens.


4. Create color contrast in the room for architectural interest. Paint trim with a contrasting Sherwin-Williams paint than what's on the walls or paint one focal wall in the room a different color than the other three. Alternatively, you can use one shade of paint to add horizontal stripes across the wall and an additional shade one level up or down the color scale to create complementing stripes.


5. Apply paint to the room using the proper tools and materials. Use paintbrushes for accent trim or painting freehand near doors or windows. For walls, use a roller to cover large areas; purchase an extension rod if you have high ceilings or hard-to-reach areas. Cover flooring with a drop cloth to protect it from paint splatters and use painter's tape to cover areas that don't need to be painted.


6. Enhance the look and feel of a room by choosing a decorative Sherwin-Williams paint finish. For example, you can create a textured, smooth or high-polish fresco finish in a dining, library or family room for an Old World look. Paint shades with reflective finishes give your bedroom or bathroom a metallic look, while the Quartz Stone Impressions uses shimmering flecks within the paint to add subtle sparkle to kitchen or dining walls. Alternatively, you can add a handcrafted look to your walls with the Artisan Impressions finishing techniques.









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Prepare Nicotine Stained Walls For Fresh paint

Nicotine can leave unsightly stains on your walls.


Applying a fresh coat of paint to walls is a quick way to give any room of the home a makeover. If your walls are stained with nicotine, however, it is important to properly prepare the walls before applying fresh paint. Yellow or brown nicotine stains will bleed right through a fresh coat of paint and can even prevent the paint from adhering properly. So prep your nicotine-stained walls properly before painting to give you the best finished product possible.


Instructions


1. Choose the right type of paint. If the walls you are painting will be exposed to nicotine in the future, use an oil-based paint rather than water-based. Oil-based paint also will more effectively cover any nicotine stains left behind on the walls.


2. Fill a bucket with 1 gallon of undiluted white vinegar or undiluted lemon juice. Both products are effective at remove nicotine from the walls and are also safe, eco-friendly products.


3. Dip a clean, cotton rag into the cleaning product and wring it out. Use the rag to scrub the nicotine off the walls. In some spots, you might need to use a stiff scrub brush to effectively scrub away the stains. Rinse out the rag or scrub brush often.


4. Make a stronger solution for tough, hard-to-remove nicotine stains. Mix 1/2 cup of household ammonia with 1 gallon of warm water. For really stubborn stains, use equal parts ammonia and water. Use a rag and/or scrub brush to scrub the walls.


5. Rinse the walls with a rag and clean water to remove any residue. Let the walls air dry completely.


6. Apply an oil-based primer to the walls prior to painting. The primer will help to cover any traces of the nicotine that you might not have been able to get off the walls.









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Choose Beautiful Bathroom Fresh paint Colors

Choose Beautiful Bathroom Paint Colors


Picking out the right bathroom paint colors can make a tremendous difference in way that your bathroom looks and feels. With millions of shades and hues to choose from, figuring out the right ones can seem like it will take forever. Follow along with the steps below to learn some important techniques and tips that you can use to choose beautiful and stunning bathroom paint colors.


Instructions


1. Select colors that compliment your cabinetry, tile, and fixtures. Too often people try and create a color scheme that is independent of the colors that are already in their bathroom. If you are doing a total remodel then you can build your bathroom around a certain color scheme, but if you are only painting then you need to choose colors that work with your existing structures.


2. Avoid dark and dismal paint colors. Bathrooms should have a light, airy feel to them and for this reason you want to stay away from any colors that are dark earth tones or very deep shades. Spend time looking at colors that have an aquatic, open feel to them.


3. Bring home paint samples to test. One of the biggest mistakes people make when choosing bathroom paint colors is that they never bother to test paint before purchasing an entire can. With most high end paints costing upwards of forty dollars per container, you need to take the time to see how the color that you've chosen looks inside your actual bathroom before you purchase it. This will also give you a great idea of whether the color works with your existing fixtures, and the permanent structures within your bathroom.


4. Learn to let go of a color if it doesn't fit well inside your bathroom. Some people become attached to a specific color that catches their eye, and even though it doesn't work with their existing fixtures or cabinetry they purchase it anyway. This will lead to a mismatched bathroom, so don't let yourself become hyper focused or set on one specific color.


5. Consult a professional designer. Many times home improvement stores have a designer on staff to help answer customer's questions, and it won't cost you anything to get their opinion. This can be especially useful if you are torn between a couple of colors.



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Cover Outdated Paneling With Texture Fresh paint

Do you have ugly, uneven, cracked or outdated walls but no budget to replace them? Here’s a solution to help you cover up that old fashioned paneling and make your room look new and stylish. Texture paint and faux finishes can help cover and transform not so perfect walls. In addition to covering that outdated paneling this technique can also be used to hide uneven drywall, cement walls and wallpaper. Read on to learn cover outdated paneling with textured paint.


Instructions


1. Clean out the room. Get any furniture and appliances out of the way so you can get to all the wall space. If you have any divider strips between the paneling sheets you’ll want to remove them if you can. If you can’t remove them you’ll have to deal with them and paint over them. This won’t give your walls an even finished look though, but you have to do what you can. Sometimes those strips are underneath the sheets of paneling and taking them out means ripping up the paneling which usually leads to damage and the paneling breaking. That defeats the whole purpose of covering the paneling.


2. Remove all nails, screws and hooks that are in the walls. You want a clean slate to start with, plus you’ll want to see all the holes and dings and dents you’ll need to fill with putty.


3. Start filling in all the seams and holes with a sandable putty or spackling paste. A good spackling paste that is for wood or masonry will work great on wood paneling. Make sure you purchase a product that is made for the type of surface you are using it on. There are different formulas for wood, cement, concrete and drywall. Apply a good thick coat to all seams, dents, holes and any other imperfections. Let it dry for a day or at least overnight. You won’t want to sand it before it is completely dry.


4. Use a mid grain sandpaper, not too course. You don’t want it to rip off all the spackle. And do not use too fine a grain either because it won’t do anything. You don’t want to use a fine grain until the final sanding when you have things evened out. Sand the spackle down to the point where it is even with the rest of the wall surface. Do not go too far down or you’ll expose the seam lines, holes, and dents again. Try to make it as even as possible. If you go too far or you can still see the seams or dents, add another coat of putty or spackle and sand again. A small handheld electric sander can save you a lot of time and energy.


5. Prepare the rest of the wall surface for primer once all your seams, holes, and dents are repaired. If you are covering paneling you will want to lightly sand the entire surface of the walls, you will also want to do this if you have wallpaper (if you don’t want to remove the wallpaper). You will also need to lightly roughen up the walls if you have a high gloss paint that you are trying to cover. If you have a shiny or very smooth texture paneling you will want to sand it so it roughs up the surface really good. Otherwise your primer will peel off. If this happens, use a primer called Gripper.


6. Wipe down the surface of the walls after you are done sanding with a damp cloth or large sponge to get off all the dirt and dust. Let it dry and you are ready to prime.


7. Apply primer evenly with a roller. If you use a product like Gripper, only one coat is needed. Now you get to decide how you want to paint your walls.


8. Experiment with faux finishes. Get a couple sheets of poster board and several types of faux finish products like sponges, rollers, rags or whatever else you want to try.


9. Use a texture paint additive like Paint N Tex by Homax. It is a texture additive that could be added to regular latex paint. It comes in a box for around $4 with enough for at least 2 gallons of paint. Coming in fine, medium and course levels of texture it gives you options. It is also a lot cheaper to buy the additive than to buy actual texture paint. You will want to mix the paint and texture in a bucket or other container. You don’t want to ruin a whole can of paint by dumping in too much texture. Experiment with the amount of texture you want. Start out adding just a little at a time and testing it on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard until you get to your desired level of texture. When you get to that point you can mix up a gallon or half gallon, or however much you need for your size of room, and start painting.


10. Use the texture mix as a base coat for your room. After you get the texture on the walls you can add a faux finish to hide any remaining imperfections. Mix your paint with glaze while you are waiting for your base coat to dry.


11. Apply your faux finish once your textured base coat is dry.


12. Touch up any smudges and you will have a stylishly updated room instead of ugly, uneven, outdated walls. Now all you have left is the redecorating which is the fun part.



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What's Best A Silver Roof Coating Or Whitened For Metal Roofs

Metal roofing
is highly reflective.


Metal roofing provides an energy-efficient alternative to traditional asphalt shingles because the metal reflects much of the sun's radiation. When considering a metal roof, you must first consider the type of metal to install, such as steel, titanium or aluminum, but you must also consider how the color of the roof affects your energy efficiency. For instance, silver coatings and white coatings do not provide the same degree of protection.


White vs. Silver


Whether you choose a white or a silver coating, you will save on your energy bills simply because of the metal itself. Metal roofing is naturally more energy efficient because it reflects the majority of the sun's radiation, while asphalt shingles absorb the majority of the sun's radiation, locking in the heat. The color with which you coat your metal roof will determine the extent to which you can reflect radiation because some colors are more reflective than others.


White Coating


When it comes to metal roof coatings, white is your best option. In fact, in 2009, U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu encouraged Americans to paint their roofs white as a means of combating global warming because of the increased energy efficiency. In other words, even asphalt shingles can benefit greatly from the reflective benefits of a white coating, but white metal roofs have far greater protection still.


Why it Works


Colors themselves appear as the result of light reflection. In other words, a leaf appears green because it absorbs all of the color frequencies except for the frequency that the eye recognizes as green. White is the only color that contains a mixture of all visible light wavelengths, and therefore reflects all of them and absorbs none of them. For this reason, light is the most reflective color.


Other Consideration


While a white roof coating can provide optimal protection for a home, you may consider other factors when deciding between a white and a silver coating. For instance, depending on the look of the house or building, a silver coating might provide more aesthetic appeal, and in colder regions, heat reflection may prove less of a concern. In such instances, use your own discretion to decide which option is best for you.









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Blackboard Fresh paint Information

Chalkboard paint can turn just about any hard surface into a working chalkboard. For kids' rooms this is ideal, but the uses are limited only by your needs, desires and imagination. Furthermore, the paint comes in several colors and is just about as easy to apply as regular latex wall paint.


Types


Many paint manufacturers have created types of chalkboard paint, including Krylon and Rustoleum. Chalkboard paint comes in paint cans, for rolling onto a surface with a paint roller, or spray cans, for spraying onto surfaces. You can use the traditional colors--green or black--or you can get extra creative (some types of chalkboard paint can be tinted many different colors).


Applying The Paint


This paint is applied just like regular wall paint. If using the spray paint, you'll need protective gear (painter's respirator, goggles, protective clothing), but it takes less time to apply than the roll-on kind. If you do use paint requiring a brush or roller, make sure you apply it with a sort-knapped roller. The paint needs to be applied to the surface as smoothly as possible.


Surfaces


Most walls and other hard, smooth surfaces can be used for this paint. You can even turn a child's table surface, a closet door, a dinner tray or an entire bedroom wall into a chalkboard.


This paint isn't limited for children's uses. Use it in the kitchen for jotting down grocery needs and reminders, or in the office for brainstorming.


Preparation


You should clean and dry surfaces well first or the paint won't go on smoothly and will not stick well. You may also need to sand away bumps and remove other imperfections on the surface before painting.


Time Frame


Chalkboard paint needs sufficient time (up to three days) to cure before the chalkboard is ready to use. The amount of time needed, and other preparation, may vary from brand to brand. Most kinds of chalkboard paints need one more step, after painting and curing, before they are ready to be written or drawn on. Preparing the board is easy--simply rub a flat-sided piece of chalk over the entire surface and then erase with a standard chalkboard eraser.









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Thursday, January 30, 2014

Petroglyphs Within The Whitened Tank Mountain tops

Petroglyphs etched on a sandstone wall in Arizona.


Arizona has a number of noted natural wonders and an impressive landscape complimented by a vast, unobstructed sky. These wonders are complemented further by archaeological and historical finds that include the remnants of ancient peoples, who left behind traces of their culture through pottery, clay dwellings, and petroglyphs. The White Tank Mountains are one of the places in the southwestern United States where these ancient petroglyphs still endure after thousands of years.


History of the White Tank Mountains


Examples of Hohokam Indian petroglyphs.


The White Tank Mountains of Waddell, Arizona have an interesting history. They were occupied by the Hohokam Indians between 500 and 1100 AD, and then by the Yavapai Indians. Besides these tribes, other ancient people left their cultural and spiritual heritage behind much earlier, perhaps as many as 10 000 years ago. Human habitation was centered around the natural water tanks, or tinajas, that were dug out of the canyons by the local flood waters.


Where to Find the Petroglyphs


The largest group of petroglyphs is found along Waterfall Canyon Trail and is known as Petroglyph Plaza, a place frequented by both archaeologists and tourists. Black Rock Trail winds through the remains of a Hohokam village, where a trained archaeologist can also discern ruined houses and garbage pits. There is another group of petroglyph etchings along the trail leading to Box Canyon Trail. The trails are accessible to independent explorers and hikers but guided tours are also available.


Meanings and Function


The etched pictures on the stones are likenesses of animals, people, celestial patterns, and other mysterious designs and symbols. Nobody is sure exactly what the petroglyphs meant, but their functions are less enigmatic. They recorded important events and locations and were charms for good weather and bountiful hunting. Some were auspicious religious symbols, others were trail markers or used as maps.


Care and Preservation


Modern interest in the petroglyphs is appreciated and encouraged, and many guided tours of the petroglyphs and the corresponding archaeological sites are offered frequently. However, these are to be undertaken with care and vigilance so these fragile places remain preserved. Touching the petroglyphs is discouraged, as even the oil from your skin can damage them. Taking rubbings of the etched stone pictures will further erode the darker areas. Photographs are safe, and literature with detailed pictures is readily available instead.









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Home Daycare Flyer Ideas

Hang flyers in your neighborhood to advertise your home-based daycare.


Getting the news out about your home-based daycare is a necessary step to building your business. Parents of children who are already in your care can provide word-of-mouth advertising. Take measures to reach clients who don't know about your business. Market your daycare by creating a flyer to highlight the services you provide. Take time to add details that make your flyer stand out from the rest.


Name


If you don't already have a catchy name for your business, choose one to use on the flyer. Paint a picture in the mind of prospective parents with your name. "Cozy Home Daycare" conjures up images of smiling and warm children, while "Ann's Daycare" is more informative than descriptive. Once you have settled on an appropriate name, add color or clip art to create a logo to go with it on the flyer. Keep in mind the thoughts you want a prospective client to have when they see your logo. Choose pastel or primary colors. Use a familiar childhood image --- balloons or ABC blocks --- to complement your daycare's name on the flyer.


Content


List general information about your day care on the front of the flier so parents can see at a glance the services you offer. Include your phone number, hours of operation and the age range and number of children you will care for in your home. If you are accredited in your state, place that information on the front. Inside the flier, list your nap, meal and snack schedule. Write a paragraph about yourself and your experience in caring for young children. Use a friendly tone in your writing as you describe your home environment in another paragraph. Place a picture of your smiling face so readers know what you look like. List examples of educational, recreational and craft activities you provide. Add pictures of your daycare space near the list.


Placement


Once you have created an informative and eye-catching flyer, put it where prospective clients can get their hands on it. Hang your flier on community bulletin boards in recreation centers, public buildings and stores. Visit local churches and schools to see if they would offer your flyer to parents who inquire about area child care options. See if independent businesses in your town are willing to place a stack of flyers near the cash register. Keep flyers in your car or purse to give to people you meet.









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Painting Supplies For Novices

Buying your first set of supplies can be rather daunting. Walking into a the art supply store, you may see a plethora of types of supplies. But how do you know which ones to use with which ones?


Substrate


While what you paint on is highly dependent on what type of paint you use, beginners should consider substrates that require the least amount of prep work. Canvas board, and prestretched canvas are options that are readily available, affordable, and in most cases, ready to use right out of the wrapping. Illustration board is another option if you're using watercolors or acrylics.


Paint


Each painting medium has different strengths and weaknesses that must be considered. Watercolors are easy to use and maintain, but their translucent nature can be a challenge for beginners. Acrylics are more opaque, but are harder to mix and maintain. They can, however, lead to more realistic results. Oil paints are the easiest to blend and can be used to to create a smooth, lush look in your painting, but have to be mixed with turpentine or another oil medium and take a long time to dry.


Brushes


Whether you get soft- or hard-bristled brushes depends on your painting style and the types of paint you are using. Thicker paints require stiffer brushes and thinner paints, like watercolor, require softer brushes. Buy round and flat brushes in three sizes of each type. Buy a fan brush for blending and a large brush for applying large areas of paint.


Palette


An often overlooked item is the one on which paints are mixed. An inexpensive option is palette paper, which is nothing more than sheets of wax paper that do not absorb paint. While plastic and wood palettes are a popular option, they can be difficult to clean. You can also use a large piece of glass. Its an inexpensive option that works well.


Other Supplies


Consider buying masking tape to block off borders. Frisket or masking fluid serve the same purpose. A good easel or drawing table can make it easier to work. Also consider a painting stick, which you can position a few inches above the canvas to give you something to rest your hand on while you paint.









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Nj Code For Creating Stairs

Stair construction in New Jersey must follow building codes


The state of New Jersey has specific building code mandates that cover how stairs are constructed, where they are required, and the dimensions they must adhere to. You must follow these stair code rules not only to obtain building permits, but also to provide the maximum amount of safety for those using the stairs.


Code Background


The State of New Jersey bases its stair code for both commercial and residential construction on the International Building Code of 2009. This set of standards, which includes the International Residential Code (IRC), is revised every three years, so it is important to contact your local code agency for any updates or amendments that may be under review. All codes related to stair construction, covered by the 2009 IRC, are established and enforced by the Division of Codes and Standards.


Stair Construction


The 2009 IRC, Section R311.7 requires a minimum clearance width of 36 inches in a stairway. This means that you must build in at least 3 feet of width for access in the area between the top of the handrail and the ceiling above. Clearance width on the stairs themselves must be at least 31 ½ inches when one handrail is installed and 27 inches where two handrails are installed. Available headroom within a stairway must be a minimum of 6 feet 8 inches, measured vertically from the front edge (nosing) of each tread and landing.


Treads and Risers


Section 311.7 of the 2009 IRC also covers stair tread and riser dimensions. The maximum riser height -- or the vertical area between each step (tread) in the stairway -- is 8 ½ inches, measured between the front edges of adjacent stairs. The minimum tread depth for foot placement is 9 inches between the front edges of adjacent stairs. The maximum allowance for slight differences in both riser heights and tread depths in a stairway is 3/8 of an inch. This means that the smallest riser height cannot be more than 3/8 of an inch less than the largest riser height, and the smallest tread depth cannot be more than 3/8 of an inch less than the largest tread depth.


Stairway Lighting and Storage


The New Jersey stair code also covers stairway lighting and any storage areas under a stairway you might include in your construction plan. Sections R303.6.1 and R311.7.8 require interior stairways to have a light located in each landing area that provides illumination on the center of landings and adjacent treads. A light switch on the wall must be provided on every floor that accesses stairways with six or more risers. Storage areas framed under stairways must have at least one layer of ½-inch gypsum board (drywall) on the walls and soffits of the enclosed space, under Section R302.7 of the 2009 IRC.









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Do Custom Auto Fresh paint Jobs

Painting your car makes it stand out as one of a kind.


For some car enthusiasts, just having a car is not enough. Customizing the car is a way to personalize it and be unique. Ways to customize it include specialty engines, tires, rims and add-ons. Painting the car with a customized design makes it one of a kind.


Instructions


1. Draw the design that you want on your car and the colors that you want to use. You can look through car magazines or visit car shows to get ideas and inspiration on what you would like to have. Work on the design until you get it exactly how you like it.


2. Wash your car to get rid of dirt and debris. Debris on your car can cause problems when the paint is applied.


3. Cover the car with newspaper on the areas that you want to avoid getting paint or chemicals on. Secure the newspaper with masking tape. This includes covering windows and tires.


4. Apply chemicals to the car according to the manufacturer's instructions to get rid of paint and wax. Start with a wax remover. Follow up with a paint stripper. Rinse off the stripper once it sets in so that it does not begin to affect the metal of your car. Wear gloves and safety goggles before working with the chemicals.


5. Remask the car if needed. Rinsing it may have caused the paper to get wet and fall off. Replace the tape and newspaper.


6. Paint the design unto the car. Urethane paint mixed with a hardener will give the car a polished look. Paint the general shape first and then come back with more details on each pass. For large areas, a sprayer can help to paint faster, but you will have to use a small brush for detail. Apply several coats as needed.


7. Allow adequate time to dry in a well-ventilated area. Up to 24 hours drying time is recommended.









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Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Repair A Popcorn Ceiling

Though its appeal varies, the popcorn ceiling treatment has several advantages. It is cost-effective, is relatively easy to apply and has some acoustical advantages. One of the several disadvantages, however, is that repairs can be tricky. If you don't match the texture of the existing ceiling well, your repair can be noticeable. In addition, if you don't resolve the underlying reason for the original damage, your repair won't last.


Instructions


1. Determine the reason for the damage and fix accordingly. If it's a hole from a ceiling hook or other similar damage, you only need to fill the hole or dent before you apply the texture. If the damage is from water or other leaks, fix the leak and take care of any underlying damage before you repair the textured area of the ceiling.


2. Prepare the damaged area by sanding it smooth and removing all old texture from it. If any of the damaged texture remains, your new texture may not stick. Prime the damaged area.


3. Match your texture. For a more personalized match, use a paint additive as opposed to a premixed spray-on texture. This allows you to have more control over the size and concentration of the aggregate used to get the popcorn effect. You can buy fine-, medium- or coarse-grade aggregate. Mix a small batch and paint it on a spare piece of plywood or drywall. Gradually add aggregate until you've matched the existing ceiling.


4. Protect your nontarget areas by covering them well, because this texture technique is quite messy. Have water and rags or sponges available for quickly cleaning any messes that may spread beyond your protected area.


5. Apply the texture. You can use a roller for most areas. If the repair is close to a wall, you can use a brush or edger to get into the areas the roller can't reach. Apply the first pass until it overlaps the existing texture.


6. Randomize the effect. Without dipping your roller or brush back into the paint, go back over the area in several directions, applying from the wet areas to the dry areas. This minimizes any pattern that may develop from the first application. Don't overwork the area. You should stop after a minute or two of working.


7. Allow the area to dry. If the repaired area has less texture than the existing ceiling, you can add a second coat of texture. If it's acceptable, paint the repair using the same paint used on the rest of the ceiling.









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Redirect Water To Help Keep A Yard From Flooding After Rain

Water runoff always finds the lowest elevation to gather and flow.


Rain runoff from the house roof and concrete driveway and walks leads to an increase flow of water drainage across the yard and garden. Water always flows downward, finding the path of least resistance, which means that any flower bed or patio in the way gets temporarily flooded. If the drainage issue after rain in your yard creates shallow ponds or soggy spots, correcting the problem is much simpler than if torrents of water gush. If water flows across your property because of a nearby ditch or neighbor's impermeable surfaces cause all localized water to flow onto your property, a professional landscape architect and surveyor must be consulted.


Instructions


1. Mark off the areas on your property that suffer poor drainage. Wait until a rain event causes the problematic drainage and flooding issues in your yard. Using a can of brightly colored spray paint, make lines on the grass or mulch to reveal the extent of soggy or flooding conditions. If the conditions are too wet, drive wood stakes or rest bricks on the ground to delineate the edges of the extent of water flow across your yard.


2. Dig into the lowest elevations within soil area that naturally floods or is washed in runoff to create a swale or river basin-like bed to capture and redirect the water flow. Water always flows downhill in the path of least resistance, so a trench to capture and direct the water quickly across the property is needed. Place removed soil from the trench away from the area so it doesn't impede the natural downward flow of water. This extra soil can be made into a small berm to help block or channel water into the trench. Use a wheelbarrow to relocate excavated soil if needed.


3. Fill the drainage trench with coarse gravel, granite chips or sand. This essentially creates a modified french drain in which water flows into the trench that is supported and hidden by the gravel. Turf grass or other wet-soil tolerant plants can be planted to improve the aesthetics of the drainage trench, such as creating a dry stream bed with accents of shrubs. The plant materials or mulch must not restrict or block the natural flow of runoff across the property into the drainage trench.









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Study Room Design Ideas

Create a sutdy in your own home.


A study is a quiet room in the home used for reading, homework, computer tasks and relaxation. You can easily convert an extra bedroom in your house into a study. Tranquil paint colors, comfortable furniture and plenty of book shelves are all you need to create a perfect study for your family.


Colors


Choosing the color for your study is an important task. You want your room to promote peacefulness and tranquility. It should be a place to get away from life's craziness and read a book, or study for a test. Studying often evokes stress, so a calm room is best for studying.


Warm blue tones are best for evoking a peaceful feeling in the room. Avoid light blues, which can feel cold on the walls. Green is another good option for a study. Green is believed to be a calming color as well. Avoid reds and yellows, which create energy and sometimes frustration. You want to sit quietly and read and relax, so energetic colors should be saved for a family room or den.


If you fall in love with a dark color that would overpower the room, consider painting half of the wall the dark color and the other half a creamy neutral. Hang chair rail to divide the two colors. Another option is to paint just one wall the dark color and the rest of the walls a similar color, just several shades lighter.


Books


No study is completely without books. Fill an entire wall with bookcases to hold all of the family's favorites. You might not be able to fill all of the shelves right away. The empty space can be used to display knickknacks or picture frames.


Choose a bookcase that fits the overall style you are going for in the room or in your house as a whole. Purchase enough of the bookcases to fill one wall of your study. Be sure to measure carefully and check to see that all doors will be able to open fully once the bookcases are in place.


Always attach bookcases to the wall with anchors and screws. If children or animals climb on the shelves, they will not tip over. Even if you do not have children of your own, it is a safety precaution you must take just in case a child is ever in your house.


Furniture


Your study now needs furniture. Look for a comfortable couch or a set of recliners first. Reading is much more enjoyable when you have a comfortable place to sit. Look more for comfort than style when it comes to couches and chairs. You want your family members to be able to relax and enjoy themselves.


Look for a desk next. You will probably want to set up your desktop computer or have a place to set your laptop. A desk with file drawers and shelves built in works well. Find a desk that matches the wood of the bookcases you installed to give the room continuity.


Finally, search for small tables to use as end tables and a coffee table. Look for woods that match the desk and bookcases, but do not necessarily buy a matching set of two end tables and a coffee table. Look for different pieces that coordinate without matching. This will make your study more relaxing and casual rather than stiff and formal.









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Sunday School Crafts With Rocks

Rock crafts help students remember the strong foundation of faith.


The Bible uses rocks to represent a strong spiritual foundation. Old and New Testament verses name Jesus as the chief cornerstone of God's kingdom. Stone also provides a metaphor for salvation and sanctification in Revelation 2:17. Each of these metaphors provides a different picture of the nature of the believer's relationship to God. Children's Sunday school lessons can use crafts to reinforce the lessons rocks teach in the Bible.


Faith as Foundation


Give each student a rock and a paintbrush. Have each student paint his name and "Faith" on the rock. Allow students to decorate the rock as they wish. While the rocks dry, read Matthew 16:13-19 to the students. Peter means "a rock" and Jesus was talking about Simon Peter's faith being firm like a large foundation rock. Explain that the rock each child made represents his faith. Remind them to build their faith stronger each day with prayer and Bible reading when they see their rock.


Building on Rock


Cover fist-sized flat rocks with a foundation layer of modeling clay or play dough. Hot glue the foundation to the rock before class. Give each student a prepared rock. Have the students roll ropes of clay or play dough to create the walls of their houses. Stick the bottom layer of the clay firmly to the foundation and build up to the roof. Once they add the roof, allow them to decorate the house and foundation with markers. Hot glue the house to the rock, if necessary. Remind the students to build their house on the rock of faith.


A New Name


Revelation 2:17 says God will give to each believer who does not succumb to false doctrine a stone with a new name on it. God gave Abraham, Isaac, Peter and Paul new names with specific meanings to represent their changed life as believers. Give each child a stone and a marker. Have them consider Christian traits such as zeal, faith, love and peace as possible names. Allow each child to write her current name and her new name on the rock. She may decorate the rock paperweight in any way she desires.


Cornerstone


The Bible describes Jesus as the cornerstone of our faith (Psalms 118:21-23, Acts 4:8-12). The cornerstone was a rock that helped to form corner intersection of a building's exterior walls. Give each student small pebbles, a large rock and a 4-inch square of plywood. Glue the rock to the plywood and secure the smaller pebbles to the rock with modeling clay as mortar so that the pebbles and rock form two walls of a structure. Have each student use a pen to write "Jesus is the cornerstone." on the exposed section of rock.









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Fresh paint Aluminum Garage Doorways

Aluminum Garage Door


If your aluminum garage door's factory-painted finish has faded or has areas where the paint is completely worn, it's time for a new coat of paint. Painting aluminum doors is relatively simple. You will save a lot of money by painting the garage doors yourself rather than hiring someone. Painting aluminum is a slightly different process than painting an interior or exterior wall, so use paint designed to adhere to aluminum.


Instructions


1. Apply a mild soap or detergent with a scrub brush and sponge, thoroughly washing the entire surface of the garage door. Be sure to remove all loose paint chips and other debris. Allow the garage door to dry for at least 24 hours before continuing.


2. Apply a coat of thinned-down oil based priming paint. The recommended mix is one pint of paint thinner for every one gallon of oil-based primer. Allow the primer to dry for 24 hours.


3. Apply an exterior coat of paint in the color of your choice. Acrylic latex exterior house paint works best. Allow the first coat to dry completely before determining whether a second coat is needed. If you can see blotchy areas, or can see the aluminum underneath the first coat of paint, paint another coat on the garage door. Continue this step until there's a smooth, consistent finish.









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Flowering Trees Within The Southern U S

Flowering trees in the South offer beauty and heady scents.


Due to its typically warm, humid climate, the southern portion of the United States enjoys a plethora of flowering trees. Some are found in natural wooded areas; others are used in landscaping, ranging from golf courses to backyards.


Flowering Dogwood


The flowering dogwood is well known in the South for its tiny flowers shaped somewhat like an onion bud. The flowers appear in a variety of colors, from creamy white to pink and deep red. The dogwood tree prefers moist, well-drained soil, as do many of the flowering trees in the South. Pink dogwood (Cornus florida Rubra) produces a wealth of pink flowers.


Pawpaw


The pawpaw tree (Asimina tribola) is deciduous, with leaves that grow up to 1 foot long. The flowers of the pawpaw are three-petaled and maroon-purple in color. The tree also produces a berry-type fruit favored by small forest animals. The pawpaw prefers moist, well-drained soil. Pawpaw trees grow up to 25 feet in height and like full sunshine.


Mountain Laurel


The mountain laurel produces an abundance of pinkish-white flowers through the spring and summer, filling the air with a heady aroma. The mountain laurel grows on slopes and prefers dry ground, commonly close to stream banks. The mountain laurel is an evergreen that many consider more of a shrub than a tree, as it grows only about 15 feet tall at full maturity, but it makes up for its small size with beautiful color and aroma throughout the South. The laurel is a slow-growing tree that likes the sunshine, and grow well in a variety of soils, depending on other factors such as location, temperature and full or partial sun.


Yellow Buckeye


Yellow buckeye (Aesculus flava) produces yellowish-white flowers in the spring and summer. Many varieties of buckeye are native to Georgia, including the red and painted buckeye, which produce red and reddish-orange flowers respectively. The buckeye prefers moist soil and grows throughout the Great Smoky Mountain range of the southeast and into the central valleys of Ohio and Kentucky.









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Produce A Photo Nozzle In Corel Painter

Photo nozzles in Corel Painter can be extremely useful for creating realistic-looking foliage, without you having to paint in every single leaf.


Creating photo nozzles in Painter can be a fairly simple process, if you are already familiar with Corel Painter's basic tool set. A nozzle in Painter is a function that lets you spray an image such as a drawing or photo onto your canvas. Default nozzles in Painter let you spray leaves, flowers, buildings and trees, among other things. To create your own image nozzles, you simply need a Photoshop or Painter file with five different layers, each one containing one of the objects that you would like to spray from your nozzle.


Instructions


1. Open Painter. Create a new art file.


2. Set your art file to contain five layers, using Painter's layer palette. Create additional layers by clicking on the small arrow sub-menu at the top right of the palette window, and selecting "New layer."


3. Draw or paste a photo of a flower (cut out from Adobe Photoshop) into your first layer.


4. Draw a similar flower to the first layer or paste a matching photo of a flower (cut out from Adobe Photoshop) into your second layer.


5. Draw or paste a photo into your next three layers, until you have five layers, each containing an element of your image nozzle. Either a drawing or a photo can be displayed on your layers.


6. Group all five layers by selecting them and, in the "Layer" sub-menu, select "Group layers."


7. Open the nozzle selector. Click on the arrow to access the sub-menu. Choose "Make nozzle from group." This will create a new file, with your different layers displayed over black.


8. Save the new file as a RIFF. Give it a descriptive name, such as "flower photo nozzle." Close the file.


9. Open a separate art document to use your new nozzle.


10. Select the "Nozzle" tool, access the sub-menu and select your "Image hose" tool in the "Paintbrush" menu. Click "Load nozzle" to begin using your new photo nozzle.









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Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Supplies For Resilvering Mirrors

Old mirrors may become damaged over time.


A mirror may appear to be made of reflective glass, but in reality, a mirror is made of plain glass with a silver coating behind it. The silver makes the mirror reflective. Over time, the silver may become damaged, leaving your mirror with dark or discolored spots. If the mirror is an antique or otherwise valuable, such as if it has elaborately beveled edges, you may want to resilver it instead of replacing it. The process uses several caustic chemicals best handled by professionals.


Paint Stripper


When you remove your mirror from its frame and backing, you'll see the back side of the mirror was coated with paint to protect the silver. You can use any commercial paint stripper to remove the paint and access the layer of silver.


Nitric Acid


Nitric acid dissolves the layer of damaged silver on the back of your mirror. It will also dissolve the copper applied over the silver. Nitric acid is a highly caustic chemical. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, if you work with it.


Tin Chloride


Tin chloride is used as a bonding agent when resilvering mirrors. When tin chloride is mixed with distilled water, it separates into its two components, tin and chlorine. The change in tin chloride's ionic structure is what allows the silver to bond with the surface of the glass.


Silver Nitrate


Silver nitrate is a combination of silver in a salt solution. When it comes in contact with separated tin chloride, it takes an electron from the tin and precipitates, meaning it drops out of the mixed solution. The silver deposits itself on the glass, making the reflective surface that is a mirror.


Dual Nozzle Spray Gun


The easiest way to apply the mixture of distilled water, tin chloride and silver nitrate to the back of the mirror is to use a dual nozzle spray gun. This way you can coat the mirror with both chemicals at once, while they form the reaction that allows the silver to adhere to the mirror surface.


Paint


Once the silver has dried on the back of the mirror, you'll apply two layers of paint over the silver to protect it. First you use copper paint, followed by a coat of gray protective paint. These ensure your silvering won't be gouged or damaged.









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Be A Contractor

Become a General Contractor


General contractors are the firms hired to manage and oversee the construction of a building. Historically, general contracting firms self-performed much of their own work. For instance, the general contractor might have a concrete team, an electrical and mechanical crew, and a group of skilled carpenters on staff to complete everything from drywall to door and hardware installation. These days, the role of the general contractor has changed. General contractors generally are responsible for lining up and managing subcontractors to complete each phase of the building's construction. Here we will give you the steps to follow to start you own general contracting company.


Instructions


1. Know your trade. If you're interested in starting a general contracting company, you must first work for one and see what kind of issues these types of companies face. Depending on your work history, it can take anywhere from 1 to 5 years to get a simple overview of the general contracting process. Watch how the company you're working for operates, and decide what ideas you can take with you and which you want to do differently.


2. Build relationships. While you're working in the industry, you must focus on building relationships with clients, suppliers, and architects. The main key to achieving strong relationships in the general contracting world is to deliver what you say you will on time and at a high level of quality. Every phase of a construction process revolves around a schedule, and every delay can set off a domino effect that can cost thousands or even millions. If you keep your promises and help your clients keep their schedules, people will remember you and want to work with you.


3. Create a business plan. Most word processing programs have simple business plan templates available. Once you start your business plan, you'll begin to see areas where your plan is lacking, and you can decide fix these areas early on. You will need a business plan to secure financing at a later stage.


4. Take care of the legal stuff. Obtain any required business licenses from your state. General contracting firms may require specific additional licenses or permits, so be sure to check. During this stage, you should also set up your federal and state tax accounts, including income, sales and worker's compensation.


5. Get insured. General contracting companies are required to carry millions of dollars worth of liability, worker's compensation and vehicle insurance. Meet with an insurance company well before you secure any work to determine how much these insurance policies will cost.


6. Get financing. This is the most important step in forming a successful construction company. You'll need to apply for business loans, set up credit accounts and make sure you have access to any savings well before you actually need the money. The commercial construction industry is notoriously slow to pay, meaning that you should be able to finance the full value of any projects you take on, including all labor, materials, overhead and payments to subcontractors for up to ninety days.


7. Seek out clients. Here's where your good relationships in the industry will work for you. Start spreading the word about your new general contracting company to your previous clients and colleagues. If you've done quality work and kept your promises to people in the past, they will be willing to give you a chance to bid on any work they are involved in.


8. Expand your business. Sign up for bid lists, visit local plan rooms and keep an eye on any projects that are coming up. Be proactive about going after available work. If you continue to perform quality work, word of mouth will spread and your general contracting company will be a success.









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Remove Silk Screen Fresh paint

Many useful items come silk-screened with logos and other advertising info. If you prefer your item not to be emblazoned with silk screen paint, it is usually easy to remove. The method for removal depends on the material the item is made from.


Instructions


1. Remove silk screen paint from plastic items; this is the easiest material to remove silk screen paint from. Spray the silk-screened area thoroughly with WD-40. Oil often will cause the paint to slide off. Let it sit for a moment, then wipe it off. If all the paint does not come off the first time, spray it again and repeat the process until it does. Afterward, wash the item thoroughly with soap and water.


2. If this fails, use a commercial remover such as Goo Gone on plastic. Apply the remover and allow it to sit for a moment before attempting to wipe off. You may need to repeat the process a few times to get all the silk screen paint removed. Once you are finished, thoroughly wash the item in soap and water.


3. Easily and quickly remove silk screen paint from a glass item with acetone, such as that found in acetone nail polish remover. Apply the acetone to a towel and scrub the paint until it is removed.


4. If silk screen paint has gotten on wood furniture, first try to remove it by gently scraping it off. If this fails, try lacquer thinner. Be aware this will also remove the finish on the wood, and you will need to repaint or lacquer the area again afterward. Use only a small amount of thinner, just enough to dab on the area affected. Quickly wipe it away with a damp towel. This works best on unfinished wood items.









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Interior Fresh paint Sprayer Information

Interior paint sprayers come in several models.


Painting the interior rooms of buildings requires careful planning, including choosing the best tools for the job. The job can often go much faster by using an interior paint sprayer rather than rollers and brushes.


Types of Sprayers


The four main types of sprayers include cup, air, airless and HVLP systems. The best type for each job largely depends on the size of the project and the discretion of the painter.


Cup Sprayer


This type sucks paint from a cup into a gun and is dispensed and controlled through pressing on the trigger. It is best for small areas like shelving units.


Air & Airless Sprayers


Air sprayers are larger versions of cup sprayers. Airless models force air through a tiny nozzle and provide more control than air-powered versions. Both are used for large interior projects.


HVLP Models


HVLP (high-volume, low-pressure) paint sprayers use two methods to apply paint. A high-volume compressor forces the paint into a receptacle and the low-pressure mechanism dispenses it in a fine, slow mist. This type is used to paint large ceilings and walls.


General Guidelines


All paint sprayers are prone to clogging, so thinning paint may be necessary before spraying. Masking trim and fixtures is recommended to protect them from the paint mist residue.









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Create Appealing Flyers

Create Catchy Flyers


Whether you're promoting your band's next show, your new business, or inviting the neighborhood to a party, nothing beats a catchy flyer for getting the word out. Nor do you need to be an artistic master to get an attention-grabbing result. If you pay attention to good design principles, you'll create pieces that will stand out from the crowd.


Instructions


Choose Your Artistic Medium


1. Choose your artistic medium, which will be determined by your audience and budget. If money is tight, a hand-drawn or photocopied cut-and-paste design will be sufficient. If you're wooing high-end clients to a new business, computer design programs like Adobe or InDesign are a must to create the right look.


2. Determine the creative concept or idea you're trying to sell. Figure out the selling points, with eye-catching images to match. For example, leading with a local comedian's photo will combat the tendency to tune out similar-looking images -- a phenomenon called "poster blindness."


3. Follow the journalistic "five Ws and one H" method of presenting information -- meaning who, what, when, where, why, and how. Save the finer details for small print, or leave them out altogether. Otherwise, no one will read your flyer.


4. Make your first line count, since most people won't read beyond it. Avoid mushy, ill-defined terms -- touting "punk rock's dark prince returns," for example, is snappier than saying, "the edgiest show around." Study similar types of flyers if you feel stuck for inspiration.


Create A Memorable Look


5. Cut out random letters and images from printed media, such as magazines and newspapers, to create the "ransom note" style -- which is a cornerstone of the basic approach. Glue or tape each element onto the paper. Use felt tip pens, Magic Markers or Sharpie pens to draw logos, cartoons or catch phrases that augment the design.


6. Develop basic layouts with Adobe, InDesign or Photoshop programs to create a professional look. Using the relevant tool, draw individual boxes to place your photos and text onto the layout design. Fill in the details as you go along, such as colors, font sizes and highlights.


7. Choose photos from your computer's image archives that you want to use. Click on the image, then drag and drop it in the photo layout box. Crop and size the photo until you're satisfied. For non-digitized photos, you'll need a scanner to perform these functions.


8. Choose light-colored paper to make phrases and slogans stand out more effectively. Avoid overly designed paper, which signals a more cluttered look. Use boldface type to emphasize words and phrases that need highlighting.


9. Run a test print of your flyer. Stick it on the wall, and see how it looks from a distance. Take the opportunity to proofread your copy, and double-check for words or phrases that still need to be emphasized. Don't let your flyer go until you're happy with the end result.









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Moroccan Style Interior Decor

Morocco is in northern Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The interior design seen in Morocco is influenced by the warm climate, the local landscape and the dominant belief system, Islam.


Moroccan interiors are lavish in color and fabrics, filled with accessories ranging from ceramic bowls to hookahs and incense burners. Exotic and lush, Moroccan design is becoming influential in Western design schemes.


Identification


Vibrant colors and quiet desert shades make for an active color palette in Moroccan design. The blues, reds and yellows found in Moroccan schemes are electric, as rich and powerful in tone as the sun, the sea and the earth.


These brilliant colors are used in fabrics, paint and tile. They are used in complex patterns that reflect Islamic symbols. To ground this cascade of color, neutral tones are used within the patterns and in flooring.


Stucco walls and wide plank floors are characteristic of Moroccan homes, as are rounded walls and arched entryways. The doorways are often trimmed in hand-painted tiles.


Features


An abundance of fabrics is used in Moroccan design, including small silk woven rugs and thick overstuffed floor pillows. Gauzy window treatments and woolen throws add layers of texture.


Furniture is crafted from dark woods. Chair legs and backs are intricately carved and seats are upholstered in woven cottons or in leather. Nail heads are used frequently as a decorative element.


Dining tables are low to the floor and traditionally food is served from brightly painted communal bowls. Diners sit on fat floor cushions.


In the Western version of Moroccan design, chairs are set around the dining table but they reflect the carvings and upholstery seen in Morocco.


Types


The traditional Moroccan interior design of Africa, like the European Mediterranean, is influenced by the temperate climate. Outdoor living spaces are integral to the architecture and design of Moroccan homes.


In the Western adaptations of Moroccan design, the outdoor space is used for entertainment. The garden décor will be wrought-iron outdoor furniture upholstered in a solid color. The Moroccan influence will be seen in the brightly colored pillows and hanging lamps with filigree ironwork.


Moroccan themed interiors in the West are usually toned down a bit from the native décor. The scheme is usually developed through accessories such as area rugs, throw pillows, ceramics and tiles.


Geography


Because of its location on the Mediterranean Sea, Moroccan décor could be typed as a Mediterranean style of design. The country also has desert landscapes, and so it is compatible with the styles commonly seen in the desert Southwest of the United States.


The beamed ceilings, stucco walls, wide plank hardwood floors and blended indoor/outdoor living are characteristic of Southwest, California and Mexican interior designs. Just as with Morocco, these regions have sharply contrasting colors in their landscapes: deep greens and sandy yellows, burnt oranges and creamy whites, earthy reds and whispery pinks.


Moroccan influences can be seen in the eclectic designs in these Western regions, sharing intense and neutral shades, handcrafted accessories and layers of fabrics for texture and color.


Significance


The exotic design of native Morocco is derived from many influences, including France and Spain, just as Morocco influences their interiors.


As the world population becomes more global in its thinking, and world trade continues to provide an ever-widening range of goods, design schemes from the East and the West intermingle.


Moroccan design, once thought by Westerners to be too exotic and even extreme for their tastes, is finding its way into contemporary schemes. Kilim rugs, filigree lamps, tiled tabletops and bolder colors are being integrated into modern décor schemes for their punch and touch of the exotic.









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