Setting up a room for a meeting sets the stage for the interactions that will go on during the meeting, making it an important consideration for planning. Table arrangements should be based on the function of the meeting. In other words, define the purpose of the meeting and make your table and seating arrangements accordingly. There are some guidelines to follow that will help you decide what configuration is best for each type of meeting.
Instructions
1
Define the parameters of the meeting. Determine the purpose and desired outcome, number of attendees, level of formality and leadership roles. These parameters will help you make seating decisions that best support your goals for the meeting.
2
Match a table configuration and seating arrangement to your purposes. An informal meeting among employees at a similar seniority level with a collaborative goal is best served by a large circular table that facilitates easy eye contact and participation between all parties. A formal meeting with a clear leader and lots of attendees works best with a U-shaped configuration of long tables and the boss or leader located at the head. For a presentation, rows of long tables with all the chairs facing front seats everyone in the best position to watch and listen to the presenter without distraction. If space is limited and multiple purposes must be served, two rectangular tables pushed into a square does double duty. Seat attendees around the square for discussion or eating, then pull them apart and place the chairs from one end in the middle so everyone can face the front for a presentation.
3
Communicate your table arrangement and seating needs to the meeting facility, or get help moving tables if you are responsible for setting up the room yourself.
A glass top table adds a modern element to any room in the home. Unfortunately, glass is susceptible to scratch marks that occur with the daily use of a dining table or from collectibles that scratch an end table. Scratch marks fill with dirt and dust, leaving ugly, skinny tendrils on the glass surface. To repair the scratches, you need to fill the marks so dirt cannot embed into the blemishes, marring your table top. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1
Wipe dust and dirt from within the scratch with a damp cloth. Dig deep into the scratch to remove embedded dirt. Dry the area with a clean cloth.
2
Apply clear nail polish to the scratch. Wipe off excess nail polish from the brush by wiping it against the top of the nail polish bottle. Start at one end of the scratch and slowly brush the nail polish into the blemish. Add more nail polish to the brush if needed to fill the scratch flush with the glass table top. Allow the nail polish to dry for 30 minutes.
3
Place your index finger inside a clean cloth and wet the end of your finger with nail polish remover. Glide your finger slowly next to the scratch, removing excess nail polish from the glass table. Wipe on both sides of the scratch. Allow the glass top 24 hours to dry before cleaning.
4
Spray a glass cleaner over the table top. Wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth.
A raised-top table is a table with a second top elevated over the first top. Often the second top is some type of glass and the first top may be decorated, carved or otherwise be unsuitable to be used as a top. Any sturdy wood coffee table can be easily built into a raised top style by the addition of spacers. This addition can transform a plain table into a modern and updated version. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1
Place the wood coffee table face down on sawhorses so that the corners are open for drilling.
2
Examine the underside of the table at the corners to locate any bracing or fasteners. Measure from e to two inches away from each side at the corner to a location that places you away from any bracing or fastener. Make sure the same measurement works for each corner. Mark the location.
3
Drill a hole through the table at the marks. The hole should be wide enough for the bolt to pass through.
4
Place a washer on the bolt. Slide the bolt through the table. Screw the glass spacer onto the bolt. The spacer will have a threaded bolt hole on one side while the other side is blank. Tighten the spacer. Repeat for each hole. Turn the table right side up.
5
Place your cut glass tabletop on top of the spacers. Center the top. Place painter's tape pieces as guide marks on the top of the glass. Remove the glass and clean the underside well using glass cleaner and newspaper.
6
Mix two-part epoxy glue. Apply a circle of glue to the top center of each spacer. Lower the glass top being careful to line up the glass with your tape guide marks before resting the glass on the epoxy. Allow the epoxy eight hours to dry.
A pine table is a classic piece of country home furniture. If you have a pine table that you cannot part with, but it's too small for your needs, you may want to consider expanding the table by adding breadboard ends. Traditionally used to protect tables from warping or cupping, breadboard ends are mainly used as a decorative elements today. A breadboard end is a section of wood attached to the end of a table. The grain of the breadboard ends runs opposite the grain of the main table top.
Instructions
1
Set up a router to make a 3/8-inch deep cut. Route a one-inch wide groove on both ends of the the pine table top.
2
Route a one-inch wide groove on one side edge of each pine board. The groove on the board and the groove on the table end will fit together to form a flush surface.
3
Apply wood glue to the middle six to eight inches of the grooves that are on the ends of the table. Leave the remaining portion of each groove free of glue to allow the joint to naturally expand and contract.
4
Place each board so that the groove fits into the groove on the table to form a flush table extension.
5
Screw the boards in place on the under side of the joint, where the board and table overlap. Space the screws every three inches.
6
Wipe off any excess glue that oozes out of the joint with a damp rag.
7
Sand the pine boards with fine-grit sandpaper. Sand with the grain.
8
Position each cleat so that it is centered on the joint on the under side of the table, approximately six inches in from each side of the table. Screw the cleats to the table and board. Space the screws evenly every two inches.
9
Apply a matching wood finish to the breadboard end extensions. Allow the finish to dry prior to handling the table.
The Malm Bedside Table is from Swedish style furnishing giant IKEA. It mounts against the wall next to a bed and has shelves for magazines and books, as well as a deep pull-out drawer. The Malm bed requires a few tools and steps but in the end you will have a sleek attractive addition to your bedroom furnishings. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1
Attach the magazine shelf unit to the main wall of the table. You will need the hammer and Phillips screwdriver in this step. To connect the shelf, use the included wooden dowels, screws and metal inserts from your accessory package. The shelf is in two pieces, one for the bottom shelf and another for the front of the shelf. Attach these together at an "L" angle then attach this to the table wall.
2
Assemble the upper drawer and attach to the wall. Using the Phillips screwdriver, attach the drawer rollers to the inside of the drawer walls first. Then use the wooden dowels to assemble the front wall and two sides together to form a block shaped "u." Pop the short screws into the cut out holes and use the straight slot screwdriver to attach the upper drawer to the table wall.
3
Attach the metal plates that will hold the lower drawer in place. Using the included Allen wrench, screw these plates into the roller mechanism of the upper drawer. These plates will hold the drawer unit and allow it to slide easily back and forth in the drawer mechanism unit. Slide the drawer in place.
4
Choose if you want to attach the drawer to your bed. If you have a wooden frame with a edge that will hold the drawer, position the metal plates on your bed frame where you want the table to attach. With the plates as a guide, mark where the screws will go with a hole punch.
5
Stand the table up at the position you want it. Using the attachment holes in the bed table wall, punch start holes in your wall. Use the Phillips screwdriver to finish attaching screws through these holes.
6
Attach the bed table to your bed frame. If you elected to attach the bed table to your wooden bed frame, screw the metal plates positioned in step four. Side your bed frame into position and attach the bed table.
Pocket billiards, or just plain pool, provides a mental challenge mixed with camaraderie among players. While Eight Ball is the most played game in informal settings, several games can be played on a pool table. Different games may emphasize different aspects of pool shooting--Eight Ball puts a premium on performance under pressure while Rotation calls for a more defensive game. Try your hand at several of these; you might find a game that fits your style.
Eight Ball
With this clear shot on the eight ball, this game is almost over.
To many pool shooters, Eight Ball is the only game in town. A favorite at bars and pool halls, it is a game designed for two players or two teams. In a two-player game, one is assigned the seven low-numbered balls--dubbed "solids" for their solid colors, while the other gets the seven striped higher-numbered balls. The black eight ball is the last one to be played, after a player pockets his seven balls. In most games, all shots are to be called. Eight Ball provides almost a playoff atmosphere, as a player could pocket his seven balls quickly but lose the game by "scratching"-- pocketing the cue ball while going after the eight--or by putting the eight in the wrong pocket. If a player pickets the eight before it becomes the active ball, he automatically loses.
Championship Billiards
Championship billiards, also called straight pool, was the choice of professional pool shooters for years until the faster Eight Ball overtook it in popularity. In championship billiards, the shooter goes after the balls as he finds them, but he is required to call his shot before making it. Each ball counts as one point, and players may go until someone scores the agreed-upon number of points--often 100. A player will continue shooting until he misses or scratches. In a 100 point game, players will rack up the balls several times.
Rotation
Rotation, also called Chicago, is similar to straight pool in that the players shoot at the balls as they find them. However, the lowest-numbered ball on the table--starting with the one--must be the first ball struck by the cue ball. As with eight ball and straight pool, the shooter continues play until he misses or scratches. Balls are usually one point each, although players may agree to use the numbers on the balls for scoring. Shots may be called or not, depending on agreement between the players. Rotation is a challenging game that allows for defensive play and combination shots.
Nine Ball
Nine Ball uses only the balls marked one through nine, racked in a diamond pattern. The shooting order is the same as Rotation, where the shooter aims the cue ball at the lowest numbered ball on the table. The player who pockets the nine ball on a legal shot anytime in the game wins.
One Pocket
In One Pocket, each player has his own pocket to shoot at. Only the balls that go into the assigned pocket--usually one of the two at the foot of the table--are legal. The first player to place eight balls in his assigned pocket wins. The game allows for fancy bank shots and, as with Rotation, combination shots and defensive play.
Home decor items like flower and candle arrangements, sculptures, family photos and even decorative coffee table books all serve to make an accent table eye-catching. Find pieces that fit the scale of the table on which they're being displayed. Then follow some common decorating rules to ensure that the pieces look as though they belong with and complement the rest of the decor in the room. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1
Take advantage of glass-topped furniture like coffee tables. These pieces usually have a shelf underneath the tabletop as well the tabletop itself, which adds a new dimension to your decorating efforts. Place an art glass or ceramic bowl on the bottom shelf and fill it with fruit or flowers. Position decorative items such as coffee table books or candle arrangements on top of the table, making sure you place them on the table in a way that allows the decorative item underneath to show.
2
Position the decorative pieces from largest in the back to smallest in the front. For example, if you've select a variety of family photos for your accent tables, place the photograph with the tallest frame in the back of the grouping with the shortest frame standing in front.
3
Select items that contrast with one another. Using the photograph example again, when you're selecting photo frames, choose frames of contrasting colors and styles that fit within your decorating color palette. For example, a large black frame might be flanked by one smaller picture with a white frame and one with a red frame.
4
Create an arrangement of odd-numbered items --- usually groupings of three or five. This helps to bring more visual contrast to the decorative arrangement. For example, if you're making a candle arrangement for an accent table, choose three candles of various sizes to group together, with the largest one in the middle.
5
Find ways to introduce harmony to your decorating efforts. One way to do this is to ensure that the decorative pieces you choose tie in with the rest of your furnishings and decor in some way. Choosing items that blend in with your color scheme works to this end. Finding pieces that complement your decorating style also helps. For example, if you've chosen Tuscan-style decorating, make sure the candles on your tables feature Tuscan colors like brick red or sand along with wrought iron elements.
Bay windows add depth and extra light into any room of the home, but can be a challenging design element for the novice. Some classic design tips for bay windows without a ledge or sill can help. Several ideas can be utilized even if a sill is present. Use what you currently own, then add pieces as needed. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1
Pull together furnishings you already own. Auxiliary pieces and accessories can be purchased if necessary. Gather small side chairs, upholstered club chairs, an ottoman, small side tables and a cocktail table. If the space is large enough, a small game table and chairs can be used.
2
Form groupings of furnishings depending on what you have on hand. Place two side or arm chairs in the bay with a side table in between. One or two upholstered club chairs with high or low backs can be used in the same way. Use one large upholstered chair with an ottoman, along with a side table if the bay isn't too large. Furnishings should fill the bay, but not over- or underwhelm it. An upholstered chaise longue with two arms can be a lovely addition. Place a cocktail table in front of it. Colorful throw pillows add zest and extra comfort to any seating arrangement.
3
Fit curved sectional seating neatly into the bay. A round-back sofa will also do the trick. Place a cocktail table in front, or side tables on each end.
4
Choose a round or oblong game style table with four chairs, if space is available. The entire grouping's length should be shorter than the length of the bay, side to side. Set the table far enough away from the wall to be able pull the chair out on that side. If there isn't enough room to keep all four chairs around the table, move the table into the bay, place three chairs around the table and set the fourth chair aside in another part of the house. In this case, a game table on casters is advisable for convenience.
5
Build in banquette seating with cushions. Place a round or oblong dining or game table in front of it. If space is tight, add a cocktail table instead. Make sure the seat height coordinates with the height of the table. For most people, a comfortable seat height is 17 inches. Custom built-ins can accommodate any seat height for the taller or shorter person.
6
Add lighting to the area. Place table or standing lamps within range of the seated occupants. Standing lamps throw the best light for reading when placed behind and to the side of the chair. Track, can or pendent lighting can be installed in the ceiling above.
Pool is a game of strategy that requires skill and planning. There are few rules, but the game takes time to master. Knowing what will lose you a turn is a very important part of the game so that you can be sure to get as many attempts as possible.
Pre-game
When racking the balls, you always use the triangle. The spot on the table at an end is called the foot spot. The apex, or top, of the triangle is put on the foot spot.
Breaking
When starting a game, a person uses the cue and hits the cue ball at the racked balls. If the person does not pocket a ball, then the next player has a chance. Whatever ball is pocketed, solid or striped, will be the balls you attempt to hit in for the rest of the game.
Playing
The turns alternate between players. Each has a chance to hit a ball into the pocket. The cue ball is hit by the cue into the other balls to pocket them. The cue ball is never moved by hand unless it is scratched. Scratching means hitting the cue ball into a pocket. When this happens, the other player gets to place the cue ball behind the head line on the table. This is an imaginary boundary indicated by to dots on either side of the table near the head. The eight ball is hit into the pocket after all of a player's balls are pocketed. If the eight ball is hit into a pocket ahead of time, then the player automatically loses the game.
Fouls
Some of the fouls a person can commit in billiards are interference rules. If anything touches a ball that is in motion, that is interference. For example, if a person is hanging over the table, and a bit of clothes get in the way, that is interference and the other player will get to hit. If a person misses the cue ball entirely, that will make him lose his turn, as will pushing the cue ball instead of hitting it. If the ball is hit and jumps off the table, this will result in a loss of turn also.
Coffee tables and ottomans are hard-working pieces of furniture in many homes. They provide a great place to kick up your feet or set down your plate. To help your coffee table fit in your living room and look proportionate to your furniture, take a few considerations into account when deciding on the height of your coffee table. Does this Spark an idea?
Standard Heights
Coffee tables range in height, as there's no standard height across the board. Most stand from about 16 to 18 inches high, though 20 inches high is not uncommon. Some coffee tables have tops that raise and lower to accommodate different uses, allowing you to raise the top to eat or use a laptop computer, then lower it to watch television.
Sofa Seat Height
The height of your sofa seat cushion should influence the height of your coffee table. If you find your sofa seat cushion sits at 20 inches above the floor, but your coffee table is 16 inches high, the coffee table will feel dwarfed and uncomfortable to use. Try to find a coffee table that is within 1 or 2 inches of the height of your seat cushion.
Television Stand Height
Another important consideration, if you use your living room for watching television, is the height of your television and stand. Very modern stands are typically low to the ground. When a coffee table is used with such a stand, placing a tall glass on the coffee table can block your view of the television, making TV watching uncomfortable. In this case, find a lower coffee table.
Entertaining
The final important consideration for the appropriate coffee table height is whether you'll be doing much entertaining in your living room with your coffee table, or whether you'll use the space for dining often. If you will use it often for dining or entertaining, a taller table will be more comfortable to eat from when seated on your sofa.
A coffee table is more than a place to set ones drink in today's home. It is a place for you to show some style and give an idea of who you are. For many people, the coffee table tells their guests more about them than any other piece of decorating in their house. The key is to decorate this calling card of sorts to truly show how sophisticated you are. Follow these steps to decorate your coffee table with style and flair. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Decorate with Style and Flair
1
Place the runner on the coffee table running parallel to the main set that is facing it. Depending on the rest of the decor of your room, you can use either an antique lace or a solid color satin runner. Make sure that the ends are having over at an even length to keep everything in balance.
2
Position the house plant in the center of the table runner. The house plant will give the decorations a feeling of life. If you truly kill all plants, then use a silk plant. Just make sure to dust it daily.
3
Siting on the chair nest to the coffee table, you will want to place the three pillar candles at your far left corner. This is done so that they won't have to be moved to accommodate drinks.
4
Place the hardback books to the far right side of the coffee table. Stack each book at a slightly different angle then the last. This will make it look as though you placed them there after reading and not as though you staged them.
5
Set the drink coasters directly in front of the house plant. They should be visible so that any guest with a drink can use them. This will save your coffee table from water marks.
Pool has for centuries been a game of angles, skill and a small degree of luck. Players take turns shooting balls around a bumper-lined table, aiming for pockets placed evenly around the edge of the table. There are a number of games that can be played with a set of pool cues, balls and a table, but the official game of pool is a traditional game with a set of rules.
Instructions
Standard 10-Ball Pool
1
Put the triangle on the table and stack all of the colored balls in it. Place ball number one in a corner, and the number ten ball in the center of the rack. Put all of the other balls around the edge of the triangle.
2
Put the One ball on the black dot in the middle of the pool table, with the triangle oriented so it points directly at the white dot at the other end.
3
Move the rack in a circular motion a couple of times, so that the balls all shift toward the front of the rack and it ends up where it started. Remove the triangle.
4
Place the cue ball on the white dot and have each player select a cue stick.
5
Flip a coin to pick the order of the players. Player one should step up and break. They do this by shooting the cue ball at the rack of balls.
To shoot, hold the narrow tip of the cue stick with your dominant hand, and the wider end with your other hand. Hold the tip about an inch away from the cue ball, using your dominant hand to aim the stick. Test your shot by pulling and pushing the cue stick just a little to see if the tip lines up with your intended shot. When ready, pull the stick through the fingers your dominant hand so it smacks the cue ball. When the cue ball is moving, remove all of your limbs and the cue stick from the table.
Wait for the balls to come to rest before moving on.
6
The first player lines up their shot behind the cue ball, so they can shoot the lowest-numbered ball into one of the pockets.
Players must call their shots--they must announce which pocket they intend to shoot each ball into. If the player makes their shot, they can shoot again; if they do not, the next player takes their turn. If the cue ball sinks into a pocket, the shot is not legal, even if the intended ball sinks, and the shooting player must pass the right to play.
Repeat this step until all balls are in the pockets. The winner is the player who legally pockets the Ten ball--or the highest-numbered ball if that ball is pocketed during play.
7
Re-rack the game for another, as described in steps 1 through 4, and start again. The player who won the previous round breaks. Play as many rounds as you choose.
Table football, also known as Foosball is a game played with a special table that uses rows of five plastic and rubber "players" that are controlled by bars to shoot a ball into a goal at either side of the field, similar to soccer. If you have recently purchased a table football table, or are headed to your local bar to get a game in, there are a few rules of the game to keep in mind to make sure everyone has fun.
Game Start
A coin toss can determine which team plays first. The winner of the coin toss gets possession of the ball first and either "serves" it through a ball opening in the side of the table, or places it in front of one of the players in the center on the table. The serving player should always confirm that the opposing player is ready for game play to start before serving the ball.
Game Play
Once served, a player must pass the ball successfully from one bar to another before scoring. If a player scores when he serves the ball, without passing it first, then the goal does not count and the ball must be served again. The player who scores a goal also gets to serve the next ball. Should a ball bounce out of the court or get stuck, game play resumes from the area closest to where the ball caused it to stop.
Scoring
Game play lasts until a predetermined score, typically 10 to 14 is reached. A point is scored each time the ball enters the goal. A ball that bounces in and out of a goal counts as a goal. Goals that are shot by a player into her own goal count as a point for the other team.
Etiquette
Players can not spin the rods (turn then 360 degrees) during game play. Players can also not lift, kick or beat the table in such a way that it might alter game play or cause a disturbance to the other team.
The coffee table is the centerpiece of almost any living or television room. People spend many meals at coffee tables or use them as a place to write or work on. Having a coffee table that's reliable is important and often times expensive. However, with a little ingenuity, a homemade coffee table can often times work as well as any coffee table you can buy in an expensive furniture store. Does this Spark an idea?
Wooden Cut-Out Table Top
With simple woodworking skills, a table can be built out of a flat table top of wood, four evenly cut legs and a few support pieces connecting the legs. This can be done with wood, a band saw, a measuring tape and a drill with a few screws in just about an hour or so. Now the real originality comes in when you create the tabletop out of magazine cut-outs, beer labels or cool graphically designed advertisements and glue them to the wood with a couple of thick coats of lacquer, which both protect the cut-outs and the wood of the table top from drinks and spilled food, among other hazards
Tube TV Coffee Table
Take that old big screen tube TV and transform it into a unique coffee table. Turn the television on its back so that the screen faces the ceiling. Then, build a simple wooden box around the TV about the size of the screen, with enough room on one side for a small DVD player or VCR, which you can hook up to the television itself. Next, cut a piece of glass at your local hardware store which is the size of the box that goes around the television. By hooking up the television and/or VCR/DVD player once the table has been built you can play videos or DVDs from under the coffee table, which can be seen beneath the glass and controlled with the remote. However, don't secure the glass to the coffee table itself, as you won't be able to change the VHS/DVD, not will you be able to perform any maintenance, if need be.
Speaker Coffee Table
If you have old speakers, or want to purchase some cheap small used speakers, they make the perfect legs for a coffee table, as they are think and sturdy, but also light and easy to move. Find a good wooden tabletop and four to six speakers that are all the same size (and preferably same brand, for aesthetic purposes). Connect the legs to the tabletop itself with heavy duty screws. Sand and polish the tabletop and finish it to your liking. If you want to get really fancy, build a shelf into the coffee table that can hold an amplifier that can hook into a CD player or computer, and then hook up the speakers so you can play music out of the coffee table.
Depending on the activity, an important factor in the comfortable use of a table is the height of the table top. Dining tables and their respective heights have evolved over time, from formal seating at a standard height table to more casual counter and bar dining. Does this Spark an idea?
Standard Dining Table
The standard height of a dining table is between 28" to 30" above the floor.
Counter-height Table
A counter-height table or kitchen island counter top is typically 36" above the floor. While kitchen counter tops are a comfortable height to stand and work at, it is also popular to sit at the counter for casual dining and interaction with activities in the kitchen.
Bar-height Table
Bar height tables are between 40" and 42" above the floor. This height of table is often seen in informal cafe dining or bars.
Outdoor Dining Table
The height for outdoor dining tables are the same as for standard dining tables, between 28" and 30" above the floor.
Chair Heights
The comfortable height for a dining chair seat is 10" to 12" below the height of the dining table. A typical dining chair is 18" to 20" high at the seat. A bar-height stool or chair is between 30" and 32" high at the seat.
Most living rooms have a coffee table, which offers a place to display magazines and books, and space to hold a coffee cup when the neighbors visit. It also allows you to show off a favorite Zen garden or candle display. For those who would like a more personalized coffee table to adorn their space, many coffee table projects exist that will allow you to show off your coffee table items in the best light. Does this Spark an idea?
Making a Coffee Table
Some people need to start with the basics and for them that means making a coffee table. There are a number of reasons to make a coffee table, which range from wanting to make one that specifically fits your tastes to giving the home crafter a worthwhile project to do. When creating a custom coffee table, it behooves you to look through decorating magazines and books. This allows you to pick out the features from several different coffee tables that you'd like to incorporate into your own table. After you have the elements in place, draw out your designs along with the specifications on grid paper before embarking on the coffee table project.
Decoupage
Decoupage is a favorite technique among crafters because of its ease of use and the endless flexibility it provides in terms of decorative features. Decoupage is the process of gluing magazine illustrations, family photos, fancy wrapping paper or stationary or any other decorative paper to a surface---in this case the coffee table. Because coffee tables usually sit in the living room, a table displaying family photos adds a nice touch and offers you a different way to display photos rather than the standard method of framing them.
Mosaic
Some savvy crafters have learned to recycle bits of broken ceramic plates or bits of pottery into some beautiful projects. This technique is called mosaic and it has been around for thousands of years. To create a mosaic table you can either make the table from scratch or you can add tiles to an existing table. If you add tiles to an existing table, be sure to add a wood "lip" around the outside edges of the table so you have reinforcements for your mosaic designs. Use your bits of broken ceramic plus some mosaic grout to add designs like red roosters, American flags or floral patterns to your table.
Painted and Stenciled
According to Brian Dakss on the "CBS News" website, painted coffee tables can add a bit of flair to this standard piece of living room furniture. Painted coffee tables work well with rustic or country styles and can be painted in the colors you've chosen specifically for your living room. Adding decorative stenciling to the top of the table provides additional adornment and allows you to pull your table further into the decorating theme you've chosen for the room, because you can select stencil patterns that match your decorating motif.
Approach the creation of a coffee table with a topping of pebbles or a design formed with pebbles as a mosaic project. A mosaic is an image formed with small bits of stone, tile, glass or other objects. Use pebbles to completely cover a coffee table top in random order. Alternatively, achieve a design by affixing pebbles one at a time. Pebble-covered coffee tables can be made for indoor or outdoor use. Does this Spark an idea?
Preparation
Pebble topped coffee tables are heavy, so make sure the table is sturdy. Proper preparation of the coffee table is important for a successful project. Seal the pebbles with a grout sealant according to the sealant's directions. Home improvement and building supply stores sell grout and tile sealants and products that enhance the natural hues of pebbles. There are more steps if you are affixing the pebbles onto the tabletop in a design. Choose or create a design and draw it onto the table with a permanent marker or oil pencil if you will be applying pebbles with epoxy. If you are using thinset (a type of cement) the table top will be coated, so draw your design on clear cellophane plastic to be held above the table as a guide for pebble placement. Purchase plexiglass, acrylic plastic or glass cut to the measurements of the table top to place on top of the pebbles if you want a smooth top when finished.
Thinset
Thinset is a cement mortar that must be used for outdoor pebble-covered coffee tables. Thinset is available at home improvement or building supply stores. Indoor tables also benefit from a thinset pebble application. Mix about 2 pounds of thinset according to the instructions and spread it onto the table top with a trowel to a 1/4-to 1/2-inch thickness (depending on the size of the pebbles). Insert pebbles into the thinset so the thinset doesn't slop over the pebble tops. Space pebbles no more than 1/8-inch apart. Wipe the thinset from the tops of the pebbles with a damp rag. If you're covering the top randomly, press the pebbles in columns until the table top is covered. If you're following a design, have an assistant hold the plastic above the table and work between the thinset-covered table top and the plastic. Place pebbles one at a time into the thinset. Allow the thinset to dry according to the duration specified by the manufacturer.
Epoxy or Super Strength Adhesives
Epoxy adhesives typically involve two or more solutions that must be mixed together to activate the adhesive. If you're using a super-strength adhesive, use one that is thick and tacky, not watery or oily. Adhesives are the best choice if you're placing the pebbles in a design onto the coffee table. Spread or squirt the glue onto the appropriate area of the design and press a pebble into the adhesive. Space the pebbles no more than 1/8-inch apart. Allow the adhesive to dry for at about 48 hours.
Grouting the Pebbles
Once the thinset or adhesive has dried for the duration recommended by the manufacturer, it is time to grout the pebbles. Grout fills the crevices between the pebbles. Use a household mist bottle to spray the pebbles with water. Wipe away or use a razor blade to gently scrape away any thinset or adhesive on any pebble tops. Prepare grout according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use a putty knife to smash the grout over and between the pebbles. Wipe the wet grout away with a wet sponge so there is no grout on top of the pebbles. Colored grout is available if desired. Allow the grout to dry for at least 48 hours (more if recommended by manufacturer). Use a grout-and-tile sealant to seal the finished table top.
Decorating a room with an L-shaped sofa transforms the space into a comfortable and usable retreat for family and friends. Its compact shape makes it ideal for smaller living rooms where it makes the most of the available space or larger rooms where it works with other seating arrangements. It is usually made up of two or three different pieces arranged together to form the distinctive L-shape. Arrange the sofa to form a focal point in the room and coordinate other elements of the room with its color or texture for a harmonious and cohesive style. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1
Paint the walls of the room a color that complements the L-shaped sofa and makes it stand out. For instance, if the sofa fabric is a dull brown and gold, paint the walls off-white to emphasize the fabric color. Let the paint dry for 24 hours.
2
Place a coffee table in front of the L-shaped sofa to provide room for newspapers, keys, decorative items or other accents. Select a piece that matches the height and style of the sofa. For instance, use a square table for an angled sofa, or a round table for a curved seating arrangement. Also place a matching side table on one side of the sofa.
3
Place an ottoman on the opposite side of the L-shaped sofa to increase seating space. Match the upholstery of the ottoman with the sofa to create uniformity. Jazz up upholstery in neutral or earthy tones with bright cushions.
4
Mount an attractive portrait, painting, mirror or panels of frames on the wall behind the longer side of the L-shaped sofa to highlight the space and enhance its beauty. Ensure the colors of the artwork complement the seating arrangement and bind the different elements together. Alternatively, arrange framed family photos on the wall to create an eye-catching arrangement.
5
Place a tall potted plant behind the shorter side of the L-shaped sofa to add natural color to the area. Use a decorative pot that coordinates the colors of the room and thrives in the indoor environment. Easy-grow plants include indoors palms, corn or bamboo.
6
Position a floor lamp on the corner behind the sofa to illuminate the space and provide a reading nook. Use a tall lamp that adds height to the space and prevents the space from appearing too cluttered. Offset traditional sofa upholstery with a modern lamp, or use a lampshade made from natural fibers to offset a contemporary sofa.
It's unclear why table manufacturers keep forgetting to secure glass to their table tops, but unfortunately they do. That sliding shard can be hazardous to curious toddlers and small children, or it could just be hazardous to your patience. If your table's loose pane is becoming a pain, a few options can help it, and you, stay grounded. Does this Spark an idea?
Clear Bonding Gel and Adhesives
Clear bonding gels can be a very strong adhesives. If you're looking to keep the glass top stuck to the table frame more permanently, this may be the best option. The makers of Museum Gel claim their product can hold glass in place even through an earthquake. A 4-oz. bottle of the clear bonding gel costs about $12 as of January 2010. UV Glass Glue also provides a strong permanent bond. However, UV Glass Glue runs from $17 to $200 a bottle, and needs an ultraviolet light source such as sunlight to cure correctly. A less toxic and permanent solution is to use adhesive putty like that made by Tac. This putty is removable and reusable, and quite cheap at less than $3 a package. One problem with putty is that it rarely comes in neutral or translucent colors--neon blues and greens are more common.
Small Hardware
If you are looking for an option that can hold the glass in place for a long time yet is easily removed, consider just using small glass clamps and brackets. These are most often used to hold mirrors to walls or small panes of glass to the frames of storm doors. While they may not provide a smooth, seamless finish to the table, they are secure and inexpensive. Glass clamps and brackets can be found in any home improvement store.
Velcro
Yes, that other great result of NASA's early experimentation has more uses than helping delay teaching your toddler to tie his shoes. Velcro mounting tape may be the most viable option for holding a glass table top to the frame. It's relatively cheap at less than $10 per roll and it's easily removable. It's also very helpful when cleaning. The glass top can be peeled or ripped up from the frame to clean underneath, then quickly restuck. Most Velcro mounting tape comes in only white or black, which presents no problem if your table frame happens to be one of these colors.
For most families, the kitchen is the center of the bustling, busy home. It is often where they spend the most time together, so having a well-equipped and attractively decorated kitchen can add that extra touch. Decorating in a farmhouse style can especially add a warm, cozy feeling. With a few tips, you can be well on your way to the farmhouse kitchen of your dreams. Does this Spark an idea?
Walls and Cabinetry
The first thing you may consider is adding a splash of color to your kitchen walls. Try to think outside the box when it comes to paint colors. You may want to stay within your comfort zone with neutral colors, like white or tan, but maybe it's time to start thinking about warmer, more inviting colors, like a warm mocha or a blue-green, or you might even like a darker shade of red. You want a color that is pleasing to the eye and promotes the warmth of a farmhouse kitchen. When it comes to your cabinets, a pine finish is probably one of the most popular for decorating in a farmhouse style. White cabinets can also add a hint of country but also provide a fresh, crisp feel to the kitchen; contrasting the white cabinets with a wood finish countertop is even more appealing. There are also techniques to make your cabinets look older with more of an antique feel. Gomestic even suggests painting your walls with a sponge to make it look older and more antiqued (see References below). With some simple painting and sanding techniques, you can have a very shabby chic look to your kitchen. To spruce your walls up a bit, there are lots of different selections of wallpaper or border available. You might even make a backsplash out of tile; you can get creative with different shades of tile and have a terrific masterpiece when done.
Furniture and Appliances
Furniture and appliances for your kitchen abound in so many different styles today. Stainless steel is an option that looks great and will match just about any decor you decide to use. If you don't want to have such a modern look though, you can opt to buy from companies who sell older, retro-looking appliances, like stoves and refrigerators. If you actually want an older appliance, even just for decor, auctions are an excellent place to look as are antique and resale shops. For furniture, try shopping at places other than the main stores. Get out into the smaller shops and stores that sell used items or antiques; hit the garage sales on the weekends. You'll want to look for a big table; this is one piece of furniture that is necessary in a farmhouse kitchen. An old sideboard or china hutch can be transformed with a little bit of work. You might even use an old table as a kitchen island. An old refrigerator or stove, if not in working order, could be cleaned up and used as a storage area for canned foods, towels or whatever you may need. If possible, a fireplace or wood-burning stove gives even more of the farmhouse feel to your kitchen, not to mention the warmth they would give off in the winter months.
Floor, Windows and Accessories
Your floor can offset the whole look of the kitchen, and in order to get a farmhouse feel, you may choose to have a wood floor. A darker wood floor, such as a cherry finish, will usually look more rustic. You may choose to have a tile floor though, and in that case, a bigger tile floor could look very distinguished, especially if the colors were well chosen. A black and white tile floor always stands out, as would a brown and white tile floor. Of course, for even more of a rustic feel, you might like a stone tile floor, and again there are many colors to choose from, based on the colors you chose for the walls. You want your floor to complement your walls and cabinets. Once you have your flooring down, try adding a rug or two. Braided rugs are especially country looking. Your windows could be kept completely free of treatments, depending on your tastes; or you might choose to put up a valance or shade of some sort. Fabric shades and tie-up curtains can be a wonderful addition to any window. You don't have to stick with the ready-made curtains in the stores; if you can't find any that appeal to you, you can always buy the fabric and pattern of your choice and make them yourself. As for accessories, all you have to do is take a look around. Look in antique and resale shops, and you might even look online. Old tins, bottles and jars can be placed around your kitchen, even on top of your cabinets. You can use old grapevines that you find and weave decorative berry vines in with them to make a decoration for over the top of your cabinets or even the tops of your windows. Wooden shelves can be hung on your walls to hold collectibles or old kitchen utensils used for decorating. Use tea towels or find old burlap feedsacks to use for decor; you can lay them on surfaces as a type of runner, or you can even hang one on the wall. Old utensils, like rolling pins, beaters, platters or pitchers, can be added. You may find old pictures of family and get them blown up to the right size and printed; then frame them in antique-looking frames, and hang them on your walls. You might even find pictures in old magazines that you can frame and decorate with. Hang an apron on a nail for a soft effect. Candles add a warm effect to any room. Try placing a checkered or old-looking tablecloth on your table. Baskets can be used to hold cookbooks or food items. Old cookbooks can be placed on your china hutch or sideboard. You can make your own wooden signs and plaques using vinyl letters to make the sayings of your choice; of course, you can also find these at craft fairs. Old crockery is another way to add the farmhouse touch to any kitchen. Lastly, add a plant or two for a country feel; geraniums especially look great in a farmhouse kitchen. Ideas for a farmhouse kitchen are endless indeed; with these tips and your imagination at work, you can soon have the farmhouse kitchen you've been dreaming of.
Metal tables, particularly patio tables, have a tendency to rust. A fresh coat of paint will make them look brand new and serve you well for years to come. Preparation is the key to a good-looking paint job and has a dramatic effect on the length of time that will pass before you have to do it again. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Prepare the surfaces
1
Put on your safety glasses. Use the wire brush, sandpaper and any power tools with wire brushes and abrasive wheels to remove as much of the old paint as possible and all loose rust. The smoother you can get the surface now, the better the finished paint will look. If you want to spend a lot of money, take the table to a media blasting shop to remove every speck of rust and old paint with a high-pressure blasting machine.
2
While wearing gloves, eye protection and your N95 compliant mask in a well-ventilated area, wipe the table thoroughly to remove all dust, oils and contaminants that will interfere with paint adhesion. During this phase, put cardboard strips or a tarp under the table legs to prevent dirt from creeping onto your clean metal. They also will protect the floor from wayward paint spray.
3
Shake the can of primer for a full minute after you can hear the ball rattling inside. Make sure you are within the operating temperature range recommended by the manufacturer. Hold the paint can about 1 foot from the table and, starting at one end, coat the table evenly to the other end. Use long, smooth strokes and overlap them to get even coverage. Move around the table and coat each leg thoroughly, as well.
4
Prepare the paint for the finish coat according to manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to wait the prescribed amount of time for the primer to dry. Paint the legs first to avoid contaminating the top with over-spray. When painting the top, start on the side nearest you and paint away from your body. This will allow each full coat to cover the over-spray from the previous stroke.
Driftwood is a sustainable, environmentally friendly material. Wind and weather soften the edges of dead trees, giving the wood a pleasant, aged patina. Driftwood is especially abundant along the beaches of the Pacific Northwest, but savvy driftwood hunters can find hardy specimens along the shores of lakes and rivers as well. Since no two pieces are alike, each piece of driftwood furniture is completely unique. Fashioning furniture out of this material appeals to those with a sense of creativity and knack for problem solving. Those that stick with it end up with a functional and attractive conversation piece. Start small by creating a simple driftwood end table. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1 Even young children enjoy collecting driftwood.
Collect several pieces of suitable driftwood. Make sure that such activity is permitted if you're collecting on public land. While many states allow you to collect driftwood for your personal use, they may restrict chainsaws or mechanical equipment on the beach. If you live in a landlocked state you can order driftwood suitable for table bases over the Internet. Choose wood has a bleached gray look and interesting wormholes and knots.
2
Lay out your driftwood and experiment with different arrangements. Try to envision how you would like your finished piece to look. Dry fit the pieces together to find a suitable combination before permanently attaching the wood. A big, stout stump can be turned so that the root end is facing up, making a sculptural table support.
3
Wipe down your chosen pieces of wood with a diluted bleach solution. Scrub off any seaweed, algae or mud and rinse thoroughly.
4
Use a hammer and chisel to cut notches in the pieces to help them fit together. This step may require some experimentation, since driftwood is so irregular in size.
5
Trim the pieces into the proper lengths with a reciprocal saw. Try to make the cuts as level and even as possible. You will probably have to go back and re-adjust later.
6
Drill pilot holes in your pieces of wood and use lag screws to fasten the pieces together. Use screws that will not rust if the table is intended for outdoor use.
7
Sand off any sharp edges created by the saw or drill.
8
Set a purchased glass tabletop on your base and check to see if it is level. Adjust your base accordingly.
9
Remove the glass top and rub the finished base with paste wax to seal the wood and preserve the patina.
10
Apply a bead of clear silicone caulk or adhesive to the places where the wood touches the glass top. Set the glass top back on the base and press into place lightly. Allow the caulk dry completely before using the table.
Vanity tables are defined by their features, the type of mirror or extra features. These types of vanity tables come in all furniture styles and in a wide assortment of woods or wrought iron. Does this Spark an idea?
Bathroom Vanity Tables
Vanity tables are not confined to the bedroom any more. Bathrooms are more like spas, and vanity tables are combined with the basin and a wall-hung mirror.
Triple Mirror
A triple-mirror vanity has one large stationary mirror and two smaller mirrors attached by brackets to each side. The side mirrors can be moved back and forth.
Rotating Mirror
A rotating mirror vanity has a single mirror, square or oval, mounted in the center of the back. The mirror can be rotated from front to back, giving different viewing angles.
Jewelry Armoire Vanity
A jewelry armoire vanity is two pieces of furniture in one. The vanity has a rotating mirror, and there is a set of jewelry drawers on one side.
Corner Vanity Tables
Corner vanity tables are made for small rooms. The tables themselves are smaller than other models but fit into a corner when space is limited.
A farm pond provides a source of water for farm animals, fish for eating and recreation if properly built and maintained. Using a current water source, such as a stream or water spring, is one way to make a farm pond. Digging in a dry area and tapping into an underground water table is another method. Most ponds receive some water from runoff, making low-lying areas a prime location. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1
Research the regulations in your area. Begin by contacting your local Extension Service and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service.
2
Have a professional perform a site evaluation to determine if your desired location is suitable. The lay of the land, water sources and zoning laws need to be considered. Your best resource here is the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service, which will not be as costly as a private company.
3
Consult with a soil analyst from either a private corporation or a government agency. It is crucial to determine whether your soil and underlying strata can contain and support a farm pond. You can have your soil tested through an agriculture program at your local university, the Extension Service or a private company such as Midwest Laboratories.
4
Survey the land and draw blueprints. Depending on local regulations, the survey may need to be completed by a professional land surveyor (find one at U.S. Surveyor). You may also need to have blueprints drawn by a draftsman.
5
Apply for necessary permits as per local regulations. In most cases, you will need to provide blueprints and, if applicable, dam specifications.
6
Excavate the pond area to the desired depth. Depending on the size of your pond, you will likely need a small bulldozer. If you decide to do it yourself, you can rent one through a chain such as United Rentals. To hire a professional contractor, start at Best Contractors.
7
Treat the farm pond bottom. Treatment of the soil is often necessary if the soil does not contain the proper water-holding properties. Often, bentonite--volcanic clay--is used as a sealing compound to avoid seepage.
8
Fill the pond. This can be done by allowing the pond to fill up naturally through the water table, runoff and rain or by a stream or creek that feeds into the pond, or you can import water. Any water that is added should be tested to ensure that it will provide a suitable environment for fish and will not harm wildlife or farm animals.
Home life takes place outdoors as well as indoors. This means you should have products strictly made for outdoor life. Furniture is one area of products that you can build yourself. An outdoor table is ideal for eating on the patio or working on a science project with your children. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1
Place the blocks on a worktable. Cut a "V" in the center of each with the band saw (or jig saw). Place the blocks on the table so the "V" is facing up. Use two blocks for every bar clamp.
2
Apply glue to the edges of the 2-by-6-by-96-inch lumber. Move them together so an edge with glue on it is adjacent to an edge with no glue. Tighten the bar clamps and clean up excess glue immediately with a damp cloth. For accurate drying time, refer to the label on the glue container. This is the outdoor table's top.
3
Measure and cut four 2-by-4s to 33 inches in length. Place them on their 1 -inch edge. Drill four countersink holes halfway through so the 3-inch deck screws will penetrate the bottom side of the top.
4
Remove the bar clamps from the lumber you glued in Step 2. Scrape off excess glue that has dried with a putty knife. Sand the outdoor table top with a belt sander if necessary. Be careful not to sand across the grain.
5
Place the table top on the worktable upside down. Apply glue to the bottom edge of the four 2-by-4s from Step 3. Place two of them 2 inches from the ends of the outdoor table top and space the remaining pieces evenly. Secure them with the 3-inch deck screws. Be careful to not allow the screw to puncture the top side of the outdoor table.
6
Set the electric miter saw on a 45-degree angle. Cut four 2-by-4s on this angle with a finished measurement of 48 inches. Mark the center of each and drill a hole with 3/16-inch drill bit. Insert a lag bolt through two of the 2-by-4s and tighten them until they are snug. Repeat this for the remaining two.
7
Place the assembly from the previous step on either end of the outdoor table top. Secure them to the inside of the 2-by-4 on the ends of the table with the deck screws. Be certain that they are the same distance from the long edge of the outdoor table top.
Barnwood is a lovely option for rustic furniture. Because it's reclaimed from old barns, the wood doesn't have an environmental impact. Wood from old barns is already weathered and has swollen or shrunk as much as the wood is capable. When choosing barn wood, look for wood that is solid. Discard wood that has open knot holes or cracks through the plank. These can be repaired, but they leave the wood weaker in that section. Both beams and planking are used for furniture.
Instructions
Barnwood Frame
1
Choose a single 12 ft plank. The width of the plank will be the width of the frame. Choose a width that works for the picture to be framed. If the perfect board is a little too wide, rip the board to the desired width. Keep the raw edge next to the painting and the weathered edge displayed.
2
Measure the painting. Mark the board to fit.
3
Cut the board at a 45 degree angle using the marks as the shortest point of the angle.
4
Choose a side of each wooden piece for display. Because this is barnwood, choose the most scarred side. This will have the most character.
5
Lay the boards face down in a rectangle. Make sure the corners meet each other at right angles.
6
Lay the joint fastener across the diagonal seam on each corner. Nail the fastener across the seam. If the fastener goes all the way through the wood, don't worry. It will add to the rustic feel of the frame.
Barnwood Coffee Table
7
Choose 17 ft of barnwood beams. The beams should be 12 in by 12 in. If your beams are narrower, you may need to choose a shorter carriage bolt.
8
Cut three 3 ft sections of beam. Cut four 2 ft sections of beam.
9
Stack two of the 2 ft sections of beam. Measure 4 in from either end of the stack. Drill a hole through both pieces with the installer bit. Cut counter sink holes with the auger bit.
10
Thread a carriage bolt through each hole and tighten the bolt with the socket wrench. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 with the other pair of 2 ft pieces. These are the legs of the table.
11
Choose a side of each 3 ft beam to be the top of the coffee table. Lay each length face down. Measure inward 6 in from the end of each beam.
12
Line up the legs on the lines drown on either side of the beams. Attach each 3 ft beam to a leg with an L bracket. Fasten the top on both sides of the legs.
13
Turn the table over and coat with a polyurethane gloss. This can be natural, or have a light stain.
Impress your friends with your pool prowess by learning and practicing a variety of pool table games. Pool tables find homes in bars, houses and pool halls worldwide. Most bars generally charge about a dollar in quarters per game, while pool halls offer an hourly rate. Familiarize yourself with house rules (minor tweaks in a game's rules) whenever you play with a new group for the first time to avoid needless arguments later on.
Eight Ball
You may know eight ball as the classic "stripes versus solids" game. To set up, rack all 15 balls with the eight ball in the center spot. Generally one player will rack and the other will break, switching off with each game. One player aims to sink balls one through seven (solids) while the other goes after nine through 15 (stripes). Once you've made all the balls in your set, you go for the eight ball to finish the game.
Whether you're solids or stripes is determined by which ball you (or your opponent) sink first. As a general rule, you should call all of your shots except those that are obvious. If you make a shot without calling it or hit your opponent's ball first, the shot counts but you don't get to take a second shot. The game ends when one player sinks the eight ball. Note that the following conditions result in an automatic loss: sinking the eight ball prematurely, scratching on your eight ball shot, hitting your opponent's ball first on an eight ball shot or shooting the eight ball into a pocket other than the one you called.
Nine Ball
Nine ball is played using only balls one through nine. Rack the balls in a diamond shape with nine in the center and one in the front. You can sink the balls in any order, but you must hit the lowest-numbered ball on the table first during your shot. For instance, you could sink the two ball on your first turn so long as you hit the cue ball into the one ball and then into the two ball to the pocket. You win the game by sinking the nine ball. You don't have to call your shots, and when your opponent scratches you're free to place the cue ball anywhere on the table.
Cutthroat
If you've got three players, cutthroat is the ideal pool table game for you. You rack using all 15 balls and each player is assigned five balls: one through five, six through 10 or 11 through 15. Cutthroat basically plays out as a "last man standing" kind of game, as the first player to sink both of his opponents' balls wins.
If you're playing in a pool hall, at home or another venue with non-coin-operated tables, add this rule to the game: Whenever a player scratches, each of his opponents has a ball returned to the table.
Decorating a kitchen country style is an enduring trend, because the country look provides a cheerful and inviting backdrop for cooking and entertaining. You can switch out textiles or add thematic accessories to give your table a country aesthetic, or invest more money or time to reinvent your kitchen table to incorporate country materials and finishes. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Setting the Table
1
Clear the table. The daily pileup of papers, homework, projects and coffee cups kills the breezy look of classic country style. Use baskets or buckets on nearby floating shelves or open cabinets to hold necessities. Clean your kitchen table with warm water and soap.
2
Consider paint and finishes. The country look favors the light, bright or natural. A white or antique white paint job creates a simple backdrop for more vivid accessories. A weathered gray wood evokes beach cottages. Darker stained wood adds French farmhouse style. Contemporary county looks often feature a palette of primary colors, so a sunny yellow or a bold blue can also work on a country kitchen table makeover.
3
Try different textiles on your country kitchen table. A red gingham or yellow floral tablecloth has a retro country look. Vintage linens in white or off white have a softer tone. If you want your table linens to be your focal point, you can use a cloth that features a red rooster or bright sunflowers. For a simpler look, skip the tablecloth and use a table runner or place mats in gingham, straw, bamboo or stripes. You can add cloth napkins that have a similar pattern, or just continue one of the accent colors but incorporate a new pattern.
4
Bring together form and function with country cookware and crockery on your kitchen table. A brightly painted ceramic pitcher can hold homemade lemonade. Stoneware in bright yellow, persimmon, sage green or cornflower blue adds warmth. Bamboo salad bowls, serving spoons, breadboards and napkin rings give a country kitchen an eco-design look.
5
Finish with a bold country kitchen centerpiece. A tin bucket filled with cornflowers adds rustic charm, while an Italian majolica ceramic bowl holding lemons and limes imparts Tuscan elegance. A ceramic dish holding warm bread has beauty and usefulness. Evoke the simpler life with an earthenware bowl displaying fresh fruit or a simple glass decanter filled with water.
Rustic tables have a sense of character that is hard to find in new furniture. The areas where the life of a family has bumped into the surface of the table, with scratches and stains and worn marks, make it a part of history that is hard to replicate. Although you might not have an heirloom table to add to your home, you can distress a new table to add that aura of family life. There is no set way to distress a table. Copy the look of old tables, or create your own look. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1
Rough up the surface of the table by hitting the surface with the end of a flat-ended screwdriver, a hammer, a shellfish pick, rocks or anything else available to show wear. Hit the legs of the table with a section of chain to show the wear that would come with normal life after several years. Scratch some corners with steel wool or a wire brush down to the bare wood. Gouge the wood with a scraper or even burn the wood with a soldering iron in some spots.
2
Sand down the table to wear off any new sharp edges created by distressing the wood. Start with medium 150 grit sandpaper and then drop to a finer 220 grit. Sand to smooth the surface, but not to remove the knicks and gouges.
3
Apply a base color stain, rubbing it in with a soft rag using a circular motion. This creates the almost dirty look in the cracks and dents of the table. Use a light colored stain with a yellow tone as opposed to a dark wood stain. Allow the stain to dry completely.
4
Seal the surface of the wood with varnish or lacquer to keep the base color stain from spreading. Allow the sealant to dry overnight or according to the manufacturers directions.
5
Add another layer of stain topcoat, painting it over the surface of the table and legs with a sponge applicator or fine paintbrush. After allowing it to dry to the touch, buff corners of the table with steel wool to remove some of the finish and to expose the wood below. Dry the stain topcoat.
6
Brush on the final finish with a fine 2-inch brush, working with the grain of the table. This finish will bring out the wood grain as well as the distressed look of the table while still giving it a smooth finish. Add several more layers of varnish to add the antique look to the table, waiting several hours between each application. Dry for 24 to 48 hours before using.
Many complex math concepts are built from a basic understanding of multiplication tables. A significant amount of time is devoted to memorizing times tables in elementary school. In most cases, teachers use repetition and review to ensure that students understand the vital times tables. Teachers can add some excitement to these lessons by engaging students in games.
Times Tables Fill-In
Students rack their brains while racing to fill in missing sections in this fast-paced, small-group game. To prepare, create a copy of a multiplication table and, using whiteout or slips of paper, cover over the numbers in some of the boxes. The more numbers you cover, the longer the game will last. Divide students into groups of three to four. Tell them you are going to give them a multiplication table with some of the numbers removed, and they must race to fill in the missing numbers. The first team to successfully complete the task wins.
Possibilities
Many numbers make multiple appearances on a standard multiplication table. Help students recognize this and identify problems that have the same same answer. To prepare, you need a list of numbers and a set of times tables. Divide students into four groups, then create four sections on the chalkboard, assigning one team to each sections. Give a piece of chalk and a multiplication table to each group. Give teams a number and two minutes to find as many multiplication combinations as they can using that number as the answer. Students can use the same numbers but in a different order, such as 3 times 4 and 4 times 3, because both equal 12. The team that comes up with the most correct multiplication matches at the end of two minutes wins a point.
Multiplication Chain
This game requires the entire class to work together to create a chain of multiplication problems and solutions. To prepare, write a multiplication problem on the front of a note card but the answer to a different problem on the back. For example, if you write 3 times 2 on the front, you might write 9 on the back. On the front of the next card, write the problem to the answer on the back of your first card, in this case 3 times 3, and the answer to still another problem on the back. Continue until you have created a chain of cards equal to the number of students in your class. Give an index card to each student. Tell students to work together to create a chain of multiplication problems. Ask one student stand and read his multiplication problem, then ask students to raise their hand if their card contains the answer to the problem. That student will then read her problem. Students will soon get the hang of the activity and work together to match the problems and solutions and create a complete multiplication chain.
When you are having a large family picnic, think ahead about some games for elderly family members to enjoy. Because elderly family members may have a hard time participating in active games, in which they may injure themselves, prepare some table games for your event.
Bingo
Bingo is a great game for a group of people at a picnic and is perfect for the elderly. The game is made up of several cards with 25 numbers on a grid. Numbers are called at random, and the player that first can match up five numbers vertically or horizontally. That player must call out "bingo" to win.
Chess and Checkers
Chess and checkers are good games for the elderly to play at picnics. Both are two-player games played on a chessboard. Each player lines up 16 pieces on the board. In chess, each player must try to checkmate the opponent's king piece; in checkers, the goal is take all of the opponent's pieces off the board.
Poker
In basic poker, players are dealt five cards each; then each player makes a bet. At a picnic, pennies or candies make good betting pieces. Each player tries to outrank the other players' hands. Bets are made between each hand. An ace is the highest-ranking card, followed by, in descending order, the king down to the two. Two pairs beats an ace; three of a kind beats two pairs; a straight, or cards in rank order, beats three of a kind; a flush, cards of all one suit, beats a straight. The next highest-ranking hands, in order, are four of a kind, a straight flush and a full house, which is a pair plus three of a kind. The winner takes all of the stakes that have been bet.
