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January 29, 2007
Toolbelt for the Ladies
Contrary to popular belief, women covet great toolbags and toolbelts as much as men. But unfortunately the market for toolbelts that will fit women as well as look sharp is non-existent, until now. SStein has some of the sharpest toolbelts and toolbags we've ever seen. Made of industrial weight cotton canvas and suede, these toolbags and belts are as durable as they are chic. They come in a variety of classic colors with accents and details that any woman or man would appreciate in a workbag.
SStein Workbags [via Popgadget]
Posted by at 3:01 PM | Permalink | post to del.icio.usJanuary 27, 2007
Beautiful Bungalows
Houseblogs turned us back on to the 1912 Bungalow blog and their great photo gallery on Flickr of Los Angeles bungalows from the early part of the century. Enjoy
January 26, 2007
Baking Soda for Everything
We like the idea of re-purposing general household items for more than just the task it was intended. Why not get the most out of a product. Baking soda may be the most versatile item in your home. Shelteriffic points out some great uses and one I've never heard of (washing your face). We've opened the comments up for what you use baking soda for and how you use any other multi-purpose product.
Posted by at 12:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | post to del.icio.usJanuary 25, 2007
Concrete - A Pillar of Society
Concrete has been in existence in one form or another since Egyptian and Roman times. In 1756 the first modern mix using Portland cement was created and in 2006 domestic production reached 115 million tons. On a global scale China accounts for roughly 40% of the world concrete consumption.
Although it is one of the most used construction and building resources in the world, homeowners are scared to touch it. Popular Mechanics provides a thorough guide to using concrete that will have you laying slabs like a pro.
Posted by at 12:26 AM | Permalink | post to del.icio.usJanuary 23, 2007
Carpet Repairs
A lush carpet feels great on bare feet and the right texture and tone can make a room, but carpet is susceptible to being damaged from spills, pets, and wear and tear. Here's a guide for keeping your carpet healthy.
How to Fix Frayed Carpet [eHow]
Repair and Treat Crushed Carpet Fibers [About.com]
Re-Tufting Carpet (helpful photos) [Move]
Carpet Stains and Spills [National Carpet Cleaner Association]
Tips for Getting Out Tough Spots [Clean Link]
Carpet Maintenance [Carpet.org]
Deep Cleaning [Real Simple]
Dust Mites (motivation to either clean your carpets or replace with hardwood or tile) [EHSO]
January 22, 2007
Trimming Tree Branches
Trimming back tree branches can give your house an instant face lift as well as make for healthier foliage. An overgrown tree is more susceptible to the dangers of strong wind and the possibility of downing power lines or damaging your home. Here are some techniques to properly prune and trim your trees.
Pruning Trees [Easy2DIY]
How to Prune Trees [USDA]
Chainsaw Safety [University of Maine]
January 19, 2007
Klein Toolbags
If you are looking for a new toolbox, consider these canvas tool bags from Klein. They come in traditional colors of white with naugahyde or you can go with a more unique look of camouflage cordura.
Posted by at 4:08 PM | Permalink | post to del.icio.usJanuary 17, 2007
Weather Vanes
Links to our favorite weather vanes.
Denninger Weather Vanes - beautiful hand hammered vanes
Wind & Weather - well priced
Cape Cod Weathervane Company - most options
Tuck & Holand - we love the "Headless Horseman" (above) and they are considered "America's premiere weather vane maker" according to Conde Nast Traveler
January 16, 2007
Drywall Repair
We listened to Bob Vila when it came to repairing drywall and now we've compiled our own list of how-to repair drywall, sheetrock, wallboard, or whatever you call it, as well as a couple how-to videos.
Drywall Repair [Popular Mechanics]
Replacing Large Sections of Drywall [Hammerzone]
Fix a Drywall Hole [Howstuffworks]
Rock-It Drywall Repair Clips
Repair Drywall - video [Expert Village]
Patch Sheetrock - video [Expert Village]
Green Rooftop Tiles
These green rooftop tiles are awesome! Bring the backyard to your roof deck. They are self-watering, eco-friendly, and require no extra structures to be installed.
Green Rooftop Tiles [via Inhabitat]
Computers in the Kitchen
If you need internet access from every room of your home you probably wish there was an elegant and safe solution for your kitchen as most people spend a lot of time in their kitchen and could use the internet to look up recipes, help with homework, get news. Here's a simple solution that's both safe and convenient - it's called the Icebox. The keyboard and mouse are water resistant and the flip screen model tucks away when not in use.
Posted by at 12:35 AM | Permalink | post to del.icio.usJanuary 9, 2007
Detecting Gas Leaks
Like thousands of others in New York, we too woke up to a strange "gas" smell yesterday morning. Panic quickly sets in - Did we leave the burner on! Fortunately it wasn't gas but it's still unsettling that nobody really knows what it was. But what we now realize is that if this really was a gas leak it would have been too dangerous to wait until morning to realize it. What we need is a gas detector.
Although natural gas is odorless an additive called mercaptan gives it the "rotten egg" smell. If you do smell this the first thing you should do is leave the premises and leave the door or windows open and call your gas company or 911. Here are some other suggestions for detecting gas as well as what to look for when selecting a natural gas detector.
Posted by at 11:52 PM | Permalink | post to del.icio.usJanuary 7, 2007
Framing Hammer
Not every homeowner needs one of these but having a 23-oz framing hammer in your toolbox shows you mean business. The Douglas tool has an innovative design that allows for a better handle to hammer interface and is light enough that you won't end up with Popeye arms but sturdy enough to handle any big job with aplomb.
Leather Toolbelts
Any DIY enthusiast should own a proper toolbelt. It's an investment that will last you 20 years or more and the more they get the better they start looking and performing. It may take awhile to break-in a leather toolbelt but you'll love the look and feel as opposed to a canvas or plastic belt. Start with a model from Occidental Leather who have toolbelts for all types of craftsman. And if you don't like the weight at your waist you can check out their belt-free systems.
