Category: DIY

Welcome do-it-yourselfers (DIY) and fixer-uppers! We understand your feelings that if you want a job done right you’ve got to do it yourself. Not to mention the money you save and the feeling of accomplishment you get when relaxing on the porch or deck you built yourself, watching your kids play in a home-made tree house or playground, or enjoying freshly grown produce from your garden.

Easy Directions for How to Make a Decorative Wishing Well

When we think of yard decorations, wishing wells seem to always come up. These timeless traditional pieces make great conversation pieces, as well as another place to put your favorite plants. These easy to follow plans will have you enjoying your very own wishing well in mere hours.

How to Make a Decorative Wishing Well
How to Make a Decorative Wishing Well

A Historical Representation in the Garden Home


The wishing well in its traditional sense has always been a small pond fed by a stream or other sources. When in a public setting, history reveals that people have always tossed in coins and made wishes. Sometimes it was to a specific god or goddess, or to the gods in general. This depended on the culture and religious beliefs of the people. Where the wishing well was located had a lot to do with the traditions observed there.

One very famous wishing well is located in England at the northeastern tip of Northumberland county. This British well is called the well of Coventina. This well served the Roman British as well as the Celtic followers of Coventina. Traditionally, people passing by made requests or desired favor by throwing in coins which will have all time value. This well was found among temple remains and so the theory is that people were making offerings to the goddess Coventina.

Another famous well named Pen Rhys in Oxford, has been traditionally used by a people who do not recognize one specific god, but the vague notion of a higher power. Here, people have traditionally been known to throw in pieces of clothing or tokens to request cleansing from illness. They believe the waters of this wishing well offer cleansing powers.

So you see, there is much history behind the wishing well. In more modern times, people enjoy them as places of hope and also places to toss in coins that they are told will go to charity. The wishing well is remembered and romanticized in gardens all over the world in the form of the wooden representation of the water filled versions. Usually billowing forth from its bowels are gorgeous plants of nature that give a return of joy to all who pass by.

These directions show you how to make this wishing well, which is octagonally shaped. It is not only beautiful and interesting to look, at but also one of the easiest to build. The supplies you need are minimal.

Wishing Well – What You Will Need


(All wood is pressure treated or hard wood for outdoor durability)

  • 84- 14″x2″x3″, (94′ )–(4 of these are for the upper braces of the well; they need to be cut at 45 degrees on each end tapering inwards on each end to make the center 12″, keeping the outer portion 14″)
  • 4- 2″x3″x17″for the roof (cut 45degree angles in same direction on each end, to achieve parallel, with final length 17″ from tip to tip)
  • 2-1″x4″x4′ long pieces for the legs to the roof.
  • 14- 1″x4″x2′ pieces for the roof of the well and the frame that supports it
  • 26″ L x 1″ diameter dowel stick
  • 130- 3″ self starting screws
  • 24-1 1/2″ self starting screws

Tools

  1. Saw of your choice
  2. Drill with screwdriver head to fit your screws or a screw driver
  3. Protractor or miter box
  4. Tape measure
  5. Pencil

Step #1

  • Begin this project by laying out four of your 14″x2″x3″ pieces on a clean, flat surface .
  • Follow the diagram to find the correct placement.
  • This is a rough layout to start, but you will see it quickly comes together.

Step 1
Step 1

*Note: You are making an octagonal base.

Step #2

  • Next, place your second round pieces on top of the first, filling in the opposite sides of the octagon.
  • Follow the diagram closely for placement. 
Step 2
Step 2
  • Screw these pieces to the bottom round with 3″ screws.
  • Repeat in this manner until you have completed all 10 rows.
  • Your last row will appear to go up and down all the way around.

Step #3

  • Now that your base is completed, you need to install your legs for the upper portion of the wishing well.
Step 3
Step 3
  • To do this, center up your 1″x4″x4′ long leg along the side.
  • Screw into place using 3″ screws using the diagram as your guide.

Step #4

  • Next, butt your 1″x4″x4′ pieces together to create the base frame for the roof.
  • Keep each side parallel; make sure the side ends overlap so that you can screw the wood together from the side.
  • Screw together using 1 1/2″ screws.

Step 4
Step 4

Step #5

  • Now, it is time to attach the frame you just made in step #4 to the legs for the roof.
  • To do this, you must find the center point on both the sides of the frame as well as the legs. Mark these for reference.
  • Attach with 3″ screws in the locations indicated on the diagram.

Step 5
Step 5

Step #6

  • Next, butt together the 17″x2″x3″ pieces to form the top of the roof angle.
  • Screw this together using 1 1/2″ screws, following the diagram.

Step 6
Step 6

Step #7

  • Attach the upper roof frame to the bottom roof frame.
  • Follow the diagram for placement.
  • Secure with 1 1/2″ screws.

Step 7
Step 7

Step #8


Finally, it is time to finish the roof. To do this, start at the bottom of the roof side, and attatch your 1″x4″x2′ board to the frame with 1 1/2″ screws. Leave an overhang of 1/2″ only.

Only attach at the bottom, then proceed with overlapping the second slat 1/2″ over that. Secure this with the screw that goes through the second slat from the bottom as well as the bottom slat.

Step 8
Step 8

Following the diagram, you can see how each section attaches to the next above it until you reach the top.

Repeat on the opposite, side and butt the two sides together at the top of the roof to make a tight seal. If you want a more watertight wishing well, run a thin line of clear waterproof caulking along the top of the roof.

Now that you know how to make a wishing well, you can make one for each of your friends. Set out some plants in your new garden art, and enjoy this lovely piece of history for years to come.

References

How-To Magic

When you know how to make things yourself, there is a sense of pride in that. When you find just the right instructions to help you in your adventure, that is a match made in Heaven. Dream Lands Design strives to bring you just that. Concise clear, visual instructions on things you want to know how to do.

  1. DIY Stylish Corner Computer Desk Plans
  2. Moving Made Easy: How to Pack a House
  3. DIY Plans for an Entertainment Center with Download
  4. Easy Directions for How to Make a Decorative Wishing Well

Growing Tiny Tim Tomatoes Indoors in Winter

We certainly enjoyed the quality as well as the quantity of tomatoes we had in our home garden. I started more tomato varieties than other years but due to a little trip I made, across the yard I damaged and lost my tray of Tiny Tim tomatoes.

So I decided I would try my hand at growing Tiny Tim’s indoors through the winter.

There’s just something that turns me off store bought tomatoes during the winter, they seem so bland that I don’t care to eat them. I’m trusting my home grown tomatoes will taste better than store bought. We shouldn’t have to worry about our plant hardiness zone indoors, I hope. Our house is rather old and can be a little breezy on those cold blistery days.

Tiny Tim tomatoes
Tiny Tim tomatoes

The decision to go with Tiny Tim tomatoes is really just the size of the plant, at about 18″ tall at maturity. They will fit our south facing windows along with our herb garden and space is at a premium so no huge tomato plants.

Needs For Growing Tiny Tim Tomatoes Indoors

We try to recycle so I am going to be using plastic yogurt containers to start our Tin Tim tomato seeds. I’ll be able to use them over and over and when it’s time to transplant the starter plant to a bigger container I am going to recycle more cardboard milk cartons.

Yogurt containers
Yogurt containers

Soil Mix For Starting Seeds 

Previously I started an indoor herb garden which didn’t do well at first. The reason was the potting soil, perlite and peat moss. There were clumps that didn’t let most of the seeds get through the soil.

This time I sifted the peat moss to avoid clumps and anything that was fully composted which made for a much finer soil mix.

Potting soil
Potting soil

I like add perlite and peat moss as they help to hold water in the soil and aerate it for stronger and healthier roots. Because the peat moss is so hard to rehydrate that I had to soak it and allow it sit for a while before I planted seeds.

Read The Instructions Guys

I’m a guy and tend not to ask for directions and I don’t usually read instructions until I’ve proved to myself I really don’t know what I’m doing. However, I want my tomatoes so before planting the seeds I turned the package over and read the package.

The instructions say to cover the seeds with 1/4″ or 6mm of soil.

I don’t pour water on the soil as it tends to wash the thin layer of soil off the seeds so instead I prefer to use a spray bottle to lightly moisten the soil. Then I cover with plastic wrap to keep the evaporation low. It also allows me to see what’ going on with our seeds.

For best results keep the temperature at or slightly above 75F/24C. We don’t keep the heat high at night so we will most likely need to use a lamp to keep that temperature during the colder months of winter.

Note: Your pots won’t need direct sunlight at this time but once your seeds have sprouted they will need 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day.

Getting The Best Lighting

We only have two windows that are south facing but one has trees that block the afternoon sun so I am really limited to one of our kitchen windows. It’s where I grow our herb garden and has limited space.

Watering Containers

It’s easy to over water containers so don’t just touch the surface and then water them. The surface dries quickly because of evaporation so stick your finger down into the soil, about an inch, to see if it’s still moist down there.

If it’s dry water and if it’s moist wait another day.

What I Use As Fertilizer

Last summer I used Miracle-Gro to help my tomato plants get a good start and they did, better than any year previously so I am using it again with my indoor tomatoes. I will give them a feeding of Miracle Gro every couple of weeks.

What About Pollinating Tomato Plants

Tomato plants have everything they need to pollinate themselves on every plants. But when you grow them indoors you’re not likely to have the insects that usually do the pollinating. You are not likely to have a strong enough breeze to do the job either so a little fan is a good things to have.

You can also pollinate your tomato plant by hand simply by vibrating the plant once the blossoms are fully open and ready. Some people have been using electric toothbrushes or electric shavers to give that vibration the bees wings or breeze provides.

DIY Bed Frame Ideas, How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step

A Simple platform bed plans / DIY bed frame ideas are easy to create. A DIY bed frame ideas is nothing more than a rectangle that must accommodate the size of the mattress. Careful measurement of materials and adjusting for allowances will be the most difficult aspect of this project. So, How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step? let’s discuss…

image of DIY Bed Frame Ideas, How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step
DIY Bed Frame Ideas, How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step

Gather Materials – DIY Bed Frame Ideas

Measure the size of the mattress that will sit atop of the DIY bed frame ideas. You will need the height, width and thickness of the mattress. The following instructions are for a Queen size foam mattress that is 10″ thick. Adjust measurements for other sizes.

The listed supplies are easily available at home improvement stores. Wood pieces can be cut to size at the store and put together at home.

Wood Pieces:

  • 1 – 4′ x 4′ post – 56″ long (Cut at the store into 14″ long pieces to be used for bed legs)
  • 2 – 1′ x 6′ planks – 75″ long (Cut at the store to size)
  • 2 – 1′ x 6′ planks – 58″ long (Cut at the store to size)
  • 4 – 2′ x 4′ studs – 60″ long (Cut at the store to size)
  • 2 – sheets of plywood 4′ x 8′ – 3/4″ thick (Rip cut 30″ and cross cut 77″)
  • 2 – Wood rails to attach to foot & headboard pieces – 1″ x 2″ – 48″ long (Cut at the store to size)

Metal Pieces

  • 8 – 2×4 hanger brackets
  • 12 – 1″ wood screws
  • A box of 1 1/2″ wood screws
  • 8 – 2″ L brackets

The Tools needed for DIY Bed Frame Ideas and How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step

  • Cordless screw driver
  • Pencil
  • Tape measure
  • Hand saw (to cut notches on support planks)

Additional Items for DIY Bed Frame Ideas (Optional)

  1. Paint in desired color
  2. Varnish in desired stain or clear
  3. Paint brushes or rollers

Note: Make the DIY Bed Frame Ideas on How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step easier by painting or varnishing all wood pieces prior to assembly and allow to dry completely.

Building Head and Foot on How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step

There are many ways to create simple platform bed plans / DIY Bed Frame Ideas. The one described here is both sturdy and minimalistic.

Headboard and Footboard Assembly for DIY Bed Frame Ideas

Measure 12″ from the bottom and attach the bracket to the leg pieces using 1 1/2″ screws. Attach 1x6x58 to the other side of the bracket using 1/2″ screws. – This measurement will give you enough room to hold the mattress in place when we are done building the frame – Repeat process above for the remaining end.

Picture of Headboard/Footboard on DIY Bed Frame Ideas, How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step
Headboard/Footboard

Notice the “L” bracket on the inside portion (section labeled as 1). You should now have 2 identical pieces that make up the top and foot of your bed.

Head & Foot - How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step
Head & Foot

The next step is to join the two sections together by utilizing the 1x 6 planks cut into 76″ lengths. This will make the bed’s side rails.

Side Rails, DIY Bed Frame Ideas

Join the side rails, these are the 75″ long pieces that will create a rectangular frame. Attach rails to metal brackets as shown in picture using the 1/2″ screws.

Images of Attaching Rails - How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step, DIY Bed Frame Ideas
Attaching Rails – How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step

Attach rails to the “L” brackets in the same manner you attached the pieces that made up the headboard and footboard.

Platform Support Rails of The DIY Bed Frame Ideas

Attach the short wood rails (1″ x 2″ x 48″) to the inside portion of foot and headboard pieces with 1 1/2″ screws at 3/4″ below the top.  These rails will add support to the sheets of plywood the mattress will rest upon.
Pic of Platform Support on DIY Bed Frame Ideas
Platform Support – DIY Bed Frame Ideas, How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step

Hanger Brackets

Space the 4 hanger brackets evenly along side rails on both sides. Set the 60″ studs (4) in place.
Hanger brackets - How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step
Hanger brackets, How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step

As you can see, the planks support the plywood pieces that will complete the platform construction and support the weight evenly. This simple How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step plan is designed to take up as much space as a mattress.

Image of Space the 4 hanger brackets, How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step
Space the 4 hanger brackets – DIY Bed Frame Ideas

Plywood Notches – DIY Bed Frame Ideas

  1. Use the hand saw to cut measured notch for leg post. Repeat on all 4 corners and lay both sections of
  2. Plywood flat on top. The picture below shows the finished product.
  3. The picture below shows corner detail. All four corners should look the same.
  4. Notice how the height of the legs braces the mattress. This is helpful when using an air mattress.
  5. When Build a Wooden Bed Frame plans, consider purchasing already made furniture legs to add your own unique style.
Picture of Plywood Notches - How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step
Plywood Notches – How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step
image of Corner detail - diy bed frame ideas
Corner Detail
Pic of All four corners - diy bed frame ideas
DIY bed frame ideas, All four corners
Pic of The finished product - diy bed frame ideas
The Finished Product of DIY Bed frame ideas

References of DIY Bed Frame Ideas and How to Build a Wooden Bed Frame Step by Step

Cheap DIY Headboard, How to Make a Padded Headboard for Your Bed

Cheap DIY Headboard Ideas, How to Make a Padded Headboard for Your Bed, “Have you ever wondered how to make your own padded headboard? Here we show you how to make cheap diy headboard without touching a hammer, nails, or saw.

[ctt template=”2″ link=”tc9Jy” via=”no” nofollow=”yes”]Once you learn how to make a cheap DIY padded headboard for your bed, you may very well want to have one on every bed in your home.[/ctt]

cheap diy headboard tips
Cheap diy Headboard – By jm3 on Flickr Via (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Introduction on How to Make a Cheap DIY Headboard

Is your old headboard losing it’s lustre? Have you thought about buying a padded headboard, but don’t really have the money? You would be surprised at just how easy it is to learn how to make a padded headboard with this Cheap DIY Headboard instructions, especially if you repurpose your old one – you don’t even have to make one from scratch if you don’t want to.

If you are not handy with a hammer and nails, a padded headboard can easily be made from your old headboard with this Cheap DIY Headboard instructions, a headboard obtained from a thrift store, or even from an old door. If you use an old door, you would just have to mount the headboard on the wall rather than onto the bed. If you are a keen DIY enthusiast, all you would need to do is obtain some plywood, cut it to fit the size of your bed, and go from there.

Must Read:

Steps in Making a Cheap DIY Headboard – Preparation & Measuring Up

  1. Measure the size of your diy headboard to see how much foam, batting and fabric you will need. You will want the foam to be at least two inches thick for optimal comfort.
  2. Add 8 inches extra to the length you have measured out as you will be wrapping the batting around the headboard.
  3. When choosing from the various types of furniture material, do not just think about decoration think about durability as well. It is best to choose a thicker fabric that will stand up to the test of time. Add 8 inches extra to the fabric just as you did with the batting.
  4. Place the foam on the ground and then lay the cheap diy headboard gently on top of it. Then, use a black magic marker to trace the shape of the cheap diy headboard onto the foam. Cut the foam into the shape of the cheap diy headboard, using the utility knife.

Make Your Own Cheap DIY Headboard Project

To make a more professional looking cheap diy headboard, iron the fabric before proceeding to these next steps.

  1. Place the fabric on your work surface with the decorative side down. The batting and the fabric should be the same length.
  2. Place the batting on top of the fabric, followed by the foam. Now, lay the diy headboard on top of all three layers.
  3. Be sure that everything is lined up evenly, and begin to pull the batting and fabric up around the edges. Once you have one corner pulled tight, use a staple gun to attach it.
  4. Proceed around the cheap diy headboard, stapling as you go – the key to having a professional looking headboard is to pull the fabric and staple at the same time. It helps to have two people working on it at this point – one to pull the fabric and one to staple – although it can be accomplished with just one person with time and patience.

Must Read:

Finishing Touches of Cheap DIY Headboard

Once you have completed this part, you can add sparkle to your cheap diy headboard by using upholstery pins placed about the headboard. They have many options at the craft store, you just have to go and see what you like.

Once you learn how to make a cheap diy padded headboard for your bed, you may very well want to have one on every bed in your home. They are posh, fun and comfortable as well. So, now that you know how easy it is, don’t put it off any longer!

References & Photo Credit on Cheap DIY Headboard

Shed Foundation 101, Top Choices of Building Foundation for Shed

The best shed foundation for a garden shed is the one that fits your individual budget and storage needs. There are several garden shed foundation and types of foundations to choose that depend on the shed’s size, if the location will be permanent and how much money you want to spend for the project.

Garden Shed Foundation
Garden Shed, Shed Foundation

Choose the Type of Garden Shed Foundation and Location

There are several shed foundation possibilities for a garden shed. The size of your lawn or garden will most likely dictate your storage needs. Some storage sheds are about the same size as a small closet. This type might not even need a shed foundation and can be placed directly on a patio.

A simple do-it-yourself foundation is usually fine for most garden sheds that are used to store rakes, shovels and potting supplies. For a large shed that will accommodate a variety of heavy equipment such as riding lawn mowers or tillers, you might want to consider hiring a professional to do the excavation and install a permanent concrete shed foundation . Either way, choosing the best location is your first decision. A garden shed should be on level ground that has good drainage.

Concrete Base for Shed Foundation

Concrete Slab Foundation

The most permanent foundation for a garden shed is a professionally installed concrete slab. Concrete is a stable and durable material that gives the option of having a large shed. It’s a good choice if you have heavy lawn equipment. If the shed will store a riding lawn mower, you’ll also need a ramp for the mower.

Keep this in mind when determining location and cost. This is a shed foundation that will stand the test of time. Since it is a permanent shed foundation, you won’t have the option of moving the garden shed at a later time.

Concrete Pavers Foundation

This is a great choice for a garden shed foundation for several reasons. It’s more stable than just crushed stone alone but It’s also more budget friendly than a concrete slab shed foundation. It has some of the benefits of concrete, but it’s not as permanent or durable. It will require some heavy lifting but it’s certainly not out of reach for do-it-yourselfers.

Using concrete pavers for a shed foundation is a similar process as using them for a walkway. You’ll need to remove any grass and excavate the top layer of soil. A layer of gravel or sand is a good option for the base beneath the concrete pavers. This foundation is still capable of supporting weight but could shift over time. Since water can easily drain between the pavers, this is a good shed foundation if the garden shed will do double duty as a potting shed.

Crushed Stone Shed Foundation

Crushed stone is often used as the base for the concrete pavers to aid in drainage and for leveling the ground. But gravel alone can also be used as the main shed foundation. This is the most affordable of the options and the easiest to remove later if you should need to move the garden shed.

To do the job correctly, preparation is still extremely important. For best results, the site should still be excavated and leveled. The deeper the gravel base, the longer the foundation is likely to last. It’s important to place the garden shed in an area where drainage is excellent and run-off from heavy rains won’t be a problem.

Wood Shed Foundation

Wood is an option to use as a garden shed foundation but extra steps will be needed to make sure the foundation isn’t sitting directly on the wet ground. The wood can be pressure treated lumber or even a plywood subfloor. Either type will need to be raised above the soil with either concrete blocks or landscape timbers.

A wooden floor is not as strong as a concrete foundation. Depending on the wood chosen for the flooring of the shed, it might not be as durable for heavy lawn equipment. No matter which foundation is best for your garden shed, it’s sure to see many hours of use. A well planned garden shed will leave you with more time for gardening!

References for The Garden Shed

Wooden Barrel Decor is Unique: Creative Wood Barrel Decor

This article will describe ways to make creative wooden barrel decor. These tips will give great advice on wooden barrel decor and how to use it in your home.

Wooden barrel décor is a fun and exciting way to make your home look more appealing. You will find that wooden barrels come in handy in all different rooms of the home. You can also use them outside for added interest on your porch. Be sure that you consider using wooden barrels when you are thinking of changing the look of your rooms. They are easy to use and great for many different things.

Wooden Barrel
Wooden Barrel

Photo by kevinrosseel http://www.morguefile.com/archive/display/187105

Uses

  1. You can use your decorative wooden barrels for many different things.
  2. Use your wooden barrel for plant holders. You can use real or artificial flowers in them to display in your home.
  3. You can use the barrels for storage. They make a great place to keep extra blankets and clothing.
  4. Use barrels for storing flag poles and other longer pieces that you have in your home. You might want to use them for extra curtain rods, too.
  5. Wooden barrels make excellent garbage cans. Simply put a garbage bag inside it and you can have a fancy looking trash container. Keep it outside on your porch or in your garage for easy carrying on trash day.
  6. You can also use wooden barrels as a place to store your sports equipment. It makes a great holder for balls, mitts, skis and other sports items.
Wooden barrels
Wooden barrels

Photo by danielito http://www.morguefile.com/archive/display/164839

A Weathered Barrel

If you want to have a barrel take on a more weathered look, a great way to accomplish this is with a wood colored varnish. It will not be shiny and you can use a cloth to make different types of swirls in along the barrel. It will have a great effect.

To find weathered looking barrels you should scout the garage sales. Many times older people made their own wine and when they pass away there may be barrels for sale. These will have the great look that you long for.

Starting To Decorate Your Wooden Barrel

One fantastic way to make your wooden barrel really unique is by using strings of lights inside it. To finish off this look you will add a glass tabletop. The lights will shine through for a really awesome look.

You can always make a wooden barrel look fantastic by using silky fabrics or ribbons to tie around them. Another great way to decorate wooden barrels is with artificial greens and flowers. Be sure to make it look great.

Decorations on your wooden barrel can be very creative. Try putting stickers of your favorite items on them. This is especially fun in a family that has children because they will love to help decorate.

There is nothing wrong with painting your wooden barrel the color that you desire. After you paint it make sure that you use a varnish over it for protection. It will look fantastic.

Closing Thoughts

Keep in mind that using wooden barrel decor for decorating is becoming more and more popular. When someone sees that you have used one in your home, they will probably want to get one for theirs. Be sure that you tell them all the different ways that you have learned to use your wooden barrels, so that they can make their home look great, too.

Is there No Closet in Your Small Bedroom? Organize Storage Room: Storage Solutions

Organize Storage Room: Having a small bedroom doesn’t mean there is no storage area for your clothes. Many options exist, from a faux closet to showcasing your items as artwork. Be creative and put your hands to work as you discover DIY ideas organize storage room for storage solutions for small bedroom without a closet.

Organize Storage Room for Shoe Storage

When you own a lot of shoes and possess a small bedroom without a closet, use your imagination as you find creative storage ideas for organize storage room. As most shoes have heels, and many doors, windows and cabinets have lips; make your shoes an art collection.

Shoe storage display: organize storage room
Shoe storage display – By Marianne Madden – Via (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Group the most attractive pairs and display them by hooking the heels on the fireplace mantel, the window sill, and on the molding over the door. Not only will they be easily accessible for when you want to wear them, given the high price of shoes, you might as well flaunt them. And while you are at it, consider a display of your favorite purses dangling from a nail in the wall, grouped together like photographs.

Faux Closet: Organize Storage Room

Making your own faux closet, is another tip to organize clothing in your small bedroom. Similar to the mechanics of a ballet bar, this storage solution involves attaching a long rod high enough to hang your clothes.

For organize storage room, use a stud finder and locate the studs in your wall close to the ceiling; as you will be running the bar across the width of the wall, mark out the stud every 3 to 4 feet down the wall. Attach a circular hand rail bracket to the studs at the marked spots. Slide in a long round PVC pipe or a wooden rod, after you confirm that hangers will slide on the rod. Add a second bar, part way down the wall, to create double hanging storage for organize storage room – you can then hang sweaters and jackets on the top rod, and shirts or jeans underneath.

To hide the clothes from view, consider hooking up a retractable clothesline, running the length of the wall, and hanging a curtain.

The Faux Closet With Shelves

One DIY idea organize storage room for storage solutions and organize storage room for small bedrooms without a closet, is the faux closet with shelves. Make this closet by using shelving units and a wooden dowel.

Closet panels open - Organize Storage Room
Closet panels open – By Tami Hills – Via (CC BY 2.0)

Measure the length and height of one full wall. If one wall has a natural alcove, you can use that recessed space for your faux closet, otherwise purchase two tall, thin, shelving units to fit on both sides of your wall ;if you don’t have 3 feet of space between the two units, then only buy one.

Find the studs in the wall, and screw through the side of the shelving unit to secure it to the wall. Measure the distance between the two shelving units, and purchase a piece of board to be a connecting shelf between the two units. Sit the board on the top of both units, and attach it to the wall with brackets underneath. For organize storage room Place storage boxes on this shelf, or use it to store baskets filled with items such as lotions, and hair supplies.

Purchase a round wooden dowel, or a metal, wood or PVC pipe rod, to use as the hanging rod for your clothes. Make sure the clothes hangers will slide across the rod. Locate and mark the walls at the studs. Attach the brackets to the wall and slide the bar into the bracket. Place the bar just below the homemade shelf for maximum hanging advantage. You can also attach a short rod to the actual shelving unit, on the sides, much like you would a normal closet dowel.

This small bedroom solution gives you the shelving units to be used as dressers, for undergarments, sweaters and jeans, while you can hang dressers, slacks and coats from the bar.

Bed Risers: Organize Storage Room

Examine your small bedroom for organize storage room. Closet storage solutions exist in wasted spaces, such as under your bed. Purchase a set of bed risers. These items slip over your existing frame, and allow you to elevate your bed an additional 3-8 inches off the floor.

This extra space allows you several storage options. You can purchase plastic containers or repurpose furniture, such as an old drawer with wheels, and place clothes, sweaters, blankets, coats and sweaters inside and store the containers under your bed. Hide old suitcases, as you fill them with seasonal clothes, and slide them under the bed until you need them, or fill up a drawer with your favorite shoes to easily slide them out for everyday use.

Go Vertical: Organize Storage Room

Go vertical and take advantage of wall space up to the ceiling. Hang cabinets and shelves on the wall that can store CDs, DVDs, books and candles. Make your own free-standing shelves – and hide the storage in plain view – by filling boxes with items rarely used that you still want to keep, and laying boards across them. Place the boxes on the ends of the boards to secure the board, and build up. Place items, such as your hats, trophies, picture frames or electronic equipment on the boards.

Review the furniture in your small bedroom for organize storage room. Closet storage solutions include tall pieces of furniture that do a double duty. Pick tall dressers rather than wide ones, or choose one that includes a pull down shelf that doubles as a desk, or a tall armoire that hangs clothes, but can double as a television stand. Place a large cabinet with several drawers by your bed to store items, rather than a small nightstand. Pick a tall headboard with several shelves you can place books, candles, cell phone or drinks on, or consider making your own headboard. Mount the television set on the wall with the electronic equipment, to give you more space in the room.

Conclusion for Organize Storage Room

As you can see, organize storage room, with a little bit of elbow grease and a small investment of time, you can implement several small bedroom closet storage solutions to suit you.

Resources: Organize Storage Room

Photographs: Organize Storage Room

  • Tami Hills – After- closet panels open; https://www.flickr.com/photos/mmadden/2268847303/#/
  • Marianne Madden – Shoe Storage Display; https://www.flickr.com/photos/clutterbusters/3307639398/

Door Jamb: How to Correctly Fit a New Door Jamb – Install Prehung Door

Do you have a new door to install. Are you going to install prehung door (installing prehung interior doors) or a door jamb set on which to hang a new door? (hanging a door). How to Correctly Fit a New Door Jamb – We cover what you need to do get a door frame hung in the opening and set it plumb, level and square so your new door fits and operates correctly.

installing interior door
Interior doors – By cevanoff Via (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Introduction – How to Correctly Fit a New Door Jamb

Hinged doors hang from a frame that consists of three pieces: The hinge jamb, the latch jamb and the top jamb. The hinge jamb and the latch jamb are connected at the top of the assembly by the top jamb. Follow these steps on how to install a door frame correctly for a plumb and square installation that works perfectly and will last a lifetime.

Getting Started – Framing a Door Opening

Check the rough door frame for plumb and square. Use the six foot level on the trimmer studs on the left and right sides of the opening and note how far out of plumb they are. It is also useful to note whether the walls are plumb since if they are not, adjustments to the installation will have to be made.

Using A Spirit Level - Door Jamb
Using A Spirit Level

Door Swing Rules

  1. The door should swing away from traffic like hallways and into enclosed rooms.
  2. Closet doors should swing into rooms, not the closet.
  3. The hinges are on the opposite side as the light switch.
  4. Doors in a corner swing to rest against the adjacent wall.

Plumb The Frame ~ Door Jamb

Put the frame into the rough opening with the hinge mortises correctly positioned for the door swing. Make the top of the frame flush with the wall sheathing on both sides and check the top jamb for level. Use shims between the floor and the hinge or latch jamb to raise the jamb and make the top jamb level.

Use a six foot level to check the plumb of the hinge jamb on its face and edges. Adjust the hinge jamb side with shims at the top if necessary to make room for adjustments at the bottom. Use a single #8 finishing nail driven partway through the hinge mortise at the top to hold the jamb in place. Leave enough nail exposed to remove it easily. Adjust the bottom of the hinge jamb the same way and temporarily fasten it in place with one nail driven partway through the jamb into the framing.

The most important part of how to install a door frame is to constantly check everything for plumb and level. Recheck the top jamb for level with the two foot level and make adjustments as necessary with shims placed between the floor and the latch jamb. Be sure to keep the top of the door frame flush with the wall sheathing on both sides of the door opening.

Plumb the latch jamb by placing shims between the jamb and the rough frame to make it plumb. With the inside faces of the door frame plumb and level, check the outside edges for plumb and make adjustments in or out of the opening at the bottom of the frame. A single nail driven partway through the latch position will hold the latch jamb in place.

Shim and Nail

Place shims just above and just below each hinge to take up the space between the hinge jamb and the rough frame. Check the hinge jamb for plumb again, on the both the face and outside edge, and nail the hinge jamb in place with two #8 finish nails just above and just below each hinge, leaving the nail heads protruding 1/8-inch. The nails should go through the shims to hold them in place. On the latch jamb, check for plumb, then shim and nail the jamb in three places, about 6-inches from the top and bottom and in the middle close to the latch.

Shimming a door jamb properly.
Shimming a door properly

Hints And Tips

  1. Remove the temporary nails with a shim placed between the hammer head and the door frame to avoid marring the frame.
  2. Set the finish nails below the surface of the wood using a nail set and fill with matching putty.
  3. You can use a four foot level in place of a six foot level, just be extra studious in centering the bubble exactly.
  4. If you keep checking plumb and level on all three parts, you’ll master how to install a door frame in no time.

Doors and Door Installation

Doors look good and work well when they are installed correctly. Incorrectly, they hang at angles, are hard to open and close and might even swing open or closed on their own. Learn about doors and how to install them properly for a long lasting, easy to operate door.

  1. Installing a Door Jamb – How to Correctly Fit a New Door Jamb
  2. DIY Door: Interior Door Construction
  3. New Door Hinge Location and Installation
  4. Replace an Existing Door with a Pocket Door

References and Credits

  • Photo by cevanoff at https://www.flickr.com/photos/khs/2120687564/
  • “Finish Carpenters Manual”; Jim Tolpin; 2003

No Money? How to Make a Small Garden Pond Without a Great Expense

Read how to make a small water garden pond with no money and start the project today. Tips for measuring for the dig location are included, as well as information on how to choose a liner for a lily pond. Creating a water garden pond can be accomplished very inexpensively on a tiny budget.

[ctt template=”2″ link=”lLQyj” via=”no” nofollow=”yes”]Read how to make a small water garden pond with no money and start the project today. Tips for measuring for the dig location.[/ctt]

Front water garden design
How to Make a Small Water Garden Pond

Pond Plants 101 On A Budget – Water Garden

Ever wondered how to make a small water garden pond with no money? If you are looking for a way to give your house more curb appeal or just jazz up the yard, lily ponds make a nice addition to already existing landscaping. Lily ponds do not have to be expensive, and a beautiful water display can be created on a budget. Consider using recycled materials or stone as a landscaping feature around or at the bottom of the water garden pond to save money as well.

First, determine where the water garden will be located. Choose an area that receives at least four to six hours of sunlight each day because most aquatic plants do well and flourish in light; however, do not choose an area that gets direct sunlight all day long.

Choosing a site that gets direct sunlight all day long causes water gardens to overheat and makes it more difficult to maintain a clean and healthy balance in ponds. Furthermore, do not build a lily pond under overhanging trees, as the falling leaves can contribute to polluting the water.

Try to use areas that have a natural slope to the landscape to create waterfalls and other display features. A level area in an open location is absolutely the best place. Keep in mind that it may be best to keep the lily pond near the house or patio as evaporation can affect the level of water in the pond. Have the pond close by make it simple to top it off and add water on a regular basis.

Easy Steps To Creating A Small Water Garden Pond Inexpensively

Choose an area close to an electrical source as lily ponds require a pump to circulate the water. Two GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) regular outlets are ideal and just fine to use, but four GFCI outlets are better. This allows a connection to two pumps and a UV (ultraviolet) sterilizer while still having one outlet left for other useful equipment such as lighting or additional pumps for spitters.

Step 1. Digging the Chosen Location

Dig the hole at the chosen location or area and create several different stepped out levels. The first level is usually reserved for any stonework around the pond. The second level steps down about a foot, which is yet another level for the pond plants.

Most aquatic plants grow nicely in 12 inches of water. The base level should be the shallow end of the pond and should gradually slope downward to a deeper end. The base level is reserved for waste collection, so in that level make a ledge at one end for the skimmer and another ledge at the other end for the housing of the pump unit. The pump re-circulates water and keeps it moving from the shallow end to the deepest end, picking up any dirt or debris and allowing easy access for cleaning ponds out with a net.

Pond liners are a must in any water garden pond as they have the ability to hold in water. Once the dig site is completed, you need to measure, purchase, and install a flexible pond liner.

Step 2. Measuring and Purchasing Pond Liners

Calculate the correct size of the liner to purchase by measuring the exact length, width, and depth of the pond. Next, double the depth and add that number to the values of the length and width. Once you have that measurement, add an extra two feet for the pond edges. This gives the correct size for the pond.

Pond liners come in many different shapes and provide a unique natural-looking water garden. Some liners are made of heavy duty two-ply rubber that is durable and flexible. These liners make are ideal for custom installations. Many heavy-duty liners offer a guarantee of up to 20 years. Do not skimp on liners; choose a high-quality rubber one with at least 45 millimeters of rubberized synthetic plastic. Be careful when choosing pond liners, as some liners contain oils and fungicides that can leach into the water garden and kill plants and fish.

Step 3. Installing the Pond Liner

Before installing the liner, spread a layer of sand at the bottom of the dig hole to prevent any punctures from rocks or tree roots. Center the flexible liner over the dig hole and push it down into the hole. Place a few heavy rocks around the edges of the water garden pond to allow you to fill the hole with water. You can fill the lily pond with water from a regular garden hose.

Step 4. Filling and Conforming Pond Liners

At this point, get into the pond and smooth out any wrinkles from the liner with hands and bare feet while the pond is filling with water. The weight of the water allows the liner to conform to the shape of the pond. Remove the heavy rocks around the edges and allow the liner to settle against the sides of the pond. Do not fill the pond to the top as there is a risk of having the lily pond overflow during periods of heavy rain. It is better to play it safe.

Step 5. Covering the Edges with Natural Landscaping Materials

Cover the edge of the pond liner with your choice of landscaping materials, such as soil or natural stones. This will help to hold the liner in place.

Maintenance Care Of Pond and Plants for Water Garden

Algae growth is the biggest battle to overcome for a lily pond. With proper care, the pond obtains balance and constant supervision is unnecessary. Algae requires sunlight and excessive nutrients to grow.

Broad leaf water plants shade the water and help protect from too much light. They also make use of nutrients and so prevent their buildup. Plants may need monthly pruning and dying leaves should be taken out of the pond frequently. Slugs and snails help ponds stay clear, as they feed on pond waste, thereby performing a necessary service.

Pond filters also assist in reducing algae, but remember to clean them regularly for the highest efficiency. There are also chemicals to control algae, but care must be used since they may be toxic to plants and fish.

By following the simple steps in this How to Make a Small Garden Pond Without a Great Expense article, a water garden pond can be created easily and for a small budget. Making your own water garden feature can be very gratifying and provides a peaceful view from the window.

Resource Links on How to Make Water Garden Pond

  • Photo for water garden lily Kindly provided by Wikipedia
  • Reference Video – How to build a water garden fish pond – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfDIAa9nxyA
  • A bacyard pond is Alive: http://pages.areaguides.com/ubuild/Pond.htm

Water Garden Ideas: Learn Basics of DIY Rock Waterfall Creation

Water Garden Ideas – Making a rock waterfall for water garden ideas not only increases its style quotient, but also gives a natural look to the yard. Constructing a rock waterfall for water garden ideas might look like a daunting task, but if proper procedure is followed it can be done without any professional help. Learn basics of DIY rock waterfall for water garden ideas creation.

diy pond water garden ideas
Backyard Makeover – AFTER – By F Delventhal Via (CC BY 2.0)

Water Garden Ideas Introduction

An outdoor rock waterfall not only looks elegant but also provides a soothing ambiance which makes you feel closer to nature. Building a rock waterfall for water garden ideas isn’t an easy job as it requires adroit knowledge and precise instructions. However, the good news is that with a little bit of hard-work you can easily manage a beautifully cascading rock waterfall in your backyard for water garden ideas.

DIY Rock Waterfall for water garden ideas

When beginning to construct the do-it-yourself rock waterfall for water garden ideas, there are two things that should be considered – the structure of the waterfall and the pool in which the cascading water is going to fall. Once this foundation is complete you can focus on installing the pump which will re-circulate the water. An outdoor waterfall can be constructed on any surface, but a slightly elevated slope is preferred for its construction, as it provides a natural flow. If you have an elevated surface then use it, otherwise an elevation needs to be created artificially.

The materials that you’ll need to build a rock waterfall for water garden ideas are: submersible pump, rocks, tubes, pond liner, shovel, sand, and water hose. You’ll need 25-30 rocks in a variety of sizes along with a few large ones that should ideally be on the flatter side. A submersible pump is an airtight pump which works by pushing the water towards the elevated surface, while it is completely submerged under water. A submersible pump is the basis on which the water cascade works.

The first step in creating a waterfall for water garden ideas includes clearing up the area of any obstacle such as big stones, weeds etc. so that the functioning becomes smooth. Once that is taken care of, begin by creating proper flooring for the pond liner, which can be done by digging a hole in the ground to fit in the pond liner. Line the hole with an inch of sand in order to give a height to the liner, so that it stands above the ground level and prevents dirt from entering the waterfall.

When designing the cascade, the rocks should be observed very carefully and should meet the criteria that you require. A cascading waterfall for water garden ideas design comprises of rocks over which the water flows and therefore the rocks are called the spillway rocks. Spillway rocks should be flat with sharp square edges so that water runs smoothly over these edges. Beneath these rocks lies the tube which you can encase in an inverted plastic flower pot (cheap and effective). The tube should be rested under a small trench created for it. Rocks should be placed to create four small rock-walls around the pond liner. To build a sturdy liner you can place a long flat rock as the base, to provide stability to the whole structure.

Waterfall for Water garden ideas
Waterfall2 – Water garden ideas By Yolanda Via (CC BY 2.0)

Placing the rocks should be in asymmetric manner instead of keeping them precisely over one another. Once the spillway rocks are placed, you can work on your tubing and pumping. Once this is done, fill the base with water and start the pump to see its functioning. It will take a few tries to get the desired water cascade, but with little adjustments you will have what you need. The height of your spillway rocks creates the splash of the waterfall and the width of the rocks gives them calming flush; you can adjust either or both of them to give you the desired effect.

Image Credits & References for water garden ideas

  • How To Build a Waterfall for water garden ideas; http://clearwaterlandscapes.com/how-to-articles/how-to-build-a-waterfall/
  • waterfall2 – water garden ideas By Yolanda; https://www.flickr.com/photos/annrkiszt/3742080096/
  • Backyard Makeover – AFTER – By F Delventhal; https://www.flickr.com/photos/krossbow/152144670/
  • Artificial Rock Waterfalls Ponds and Water Features – water garden ideas; http://www.artificialrock.com.au/artificial_waterfalls.htm