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More and more frequently insurance companies are refusing to insure homes with 60 amp services, knob and tube wiring, and in some cases, even aluminum wiring. Does this mean these types of components or systems are categorically dangerous? No. Like all electrical components, they can be dangerous is they do not meet certain minimum requirements, but they can also be as safe as any others.

The Consumer Division of the Insurance Bureau of Canada operates an information line at 1-800-387-2880 that can answer some questions with respect to how to obtain insurance on homes equipped with 60 amp services, knob & tube and aluminum wiring.

60 Amp Services

Most standard sized homes built prior to the 1960’s were equipped with a 60 amp electrical service. This size of service was reasonably well suited to the needs of living at the time. However, the search for convenience and enhanced lifestyle has generally increased the demand on the electrical systems of homes today.

A common misunderstanding is that the ampacity (size, or capacity) of a home’s electrical service is determined by checking the main breaker or fuses or the rating imprinted on the panel. This method of determining size is fraught with problems as the ratings of breakers, fuses and panels may correlate to the size of the electrical service, but in many cases they don’t. The panel could have been upgraded without upgrading the service wires.

Electric Service Entry

The size of an electrical service is established by the ampacity (capacity) of the incoming service wires. The only reliable method of determining the size of the service is to observe and correctly identify the size of the incoming wires and the related equipment (mast, meter base, etc.).

It is becoming a common belief that electrical services less than 100 amps are inadequate, therefore unsafe and therefore, they must be upgraded. Smaller electrical services, such as 60 amps a not necessarily unsafe and are not categorically inadequate. A 60 amp service will however, limit the number of appliances that can be used at any one time.

For safey and practical purposes the adequacy of an electrical service should be judged against the size of the potential or expected load it will be required to carry. To some degree the load is determined by the size and number of circuits in the home and by the size of the home.

One indication of a service that is undersized for the demands applied to it is the blowing or popping of the main fuses or breaker switch. If the main fuses or breaker is affected, the service is probably undersized. If the service is undersized for the current demands, increasing the size of the service is one option; an alternative is to reduce the quantity of heavy loads such as the oven, clothes dryer or water heater. Central air-conditioners also draw heavy current and the installation of one may require the upgrading of the electrical service.

Another common belief is that if an individual circuit breaker pops or a fuse blows on a regular basis, the service requires upgrading. Problems with individual circuit breakers or fuses indicate only that the circuit involved has a problem and most likely, it is more heavily loaded than it was designed to be. A service upgrade would not necessarily solve this problem. What is probably needed is to reduce the load on the affected circuit, possibly by introducing another circuit into the area where it’s needed.

“Knob & Tube” Wiring

Knob & tube wiring is a type of wiring which was in common use until the 1940’s and sometimes used as late as the 1950’s. The nick-name is derived from the ceramic knobs that are employed to insulate and secure the wiring runs and the ceramic tubes employed to protect the wires where they pass thru potentially abrasive materials (primarily wood joists, studs etc.) Unlike subsequent wiring systems where all the wires in a run are enclosed in a cable, the two wires (black/hot and white/neutral) run separately and only come together at a terminal (switch, receptacle, fixture, junction box etc.).

Knob & Tube Wiring

Knob & tube wiring does not provide a third wire for grounding and is therefore considered unsafe in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms and outdoors. In other areas, knob & tube wiring that is in good condition with sheathing intact, properly protected from damage, and that hasn’t been subjected to extended periods of overloading which can cause it to become brittle, should not pose an increased safety risk.

Aside from the preceding concerns, the primary risk with knob & tube wiring, it seems, is it’s relative accessibility for amateur repairs, upgrades and maintenance. It is not uncommon to see a system with knob & tube wiring that has a history of amateur work (poorly joined connections, unfastened runs, unprotected wires, etc.). If a house does have knob & tube wiring wiring it should be inspected to ensure that it is properly installed and in good condition.

Note: Many older homes with originally installed knob & tube wiring have had some of the wiring upgraded. While modern wiring is visible in many areas, much of the knob & tube wiring may still be in place and concealed beneath floors, above ceilings and hehind walls.

If a few, but not all, of the circuits are in poor condition they can be replaced eventually without rewiring the whole house. However, if most or all of the circuits are in poor condition, it may be more economical to completely rewire the home. Rewiring can also allow the electrical system to be more convenient as the new circuits can be designed to accomodate the present lifestyle of the occupants of the home.

Copyright Gil Strachan - All rights reserved.

Gil Strachan is a professional home inspector, representing Electrospec Home Inspection Services in east-central Ontario, Canada since 1994. Visit http://www.allaroundthehouse.com to learn more about home inspections.

“The Home Reference Book”
You can probably find a home inspection for a little less than what we ask, but you probably won’t find the Home Reference Book. A $60 value, this solutions-oriented reference tool comes free with every inspection we perform.
It’s the first tool you should have around the house!

[tags]home improvement,home renovation,home inspection,electrical tips,home wiring,home wiring tips[/tags]

A bedroom should serve as a peaceful, restful place with warm decor that can be varied depending upon the season. Comfort in a bedroom is a key factor for most people, while others prefer simplicity and functionality as important features.

If the room is to be used only for sleeping, obviously a bed and storage space for clothes are needed. It doesn’t have to be particularly large. If the room is also to relax and work in, a larger space is needed. If your bedroom space is small, a partition can make the room seem larger and give you room for dressing.

An ideal bedroom should be large enough to contain a pair of comfortable chairs or a small sofa. There should be at least one nightstand for books and other incidentals, bookcase and a desk.

A guest bedroom ideally should be both comfortable and welcoming. If there is space, include a roomy dressing table that can also serve as a desk; add a comfortable chair and provide good lighting.

Infants and young children should have soundproofed bedrooms with dirt resistant flooring. Adolescents and teens should be given the opportunity to help design their bedroom. It should include a bed, worktable, dressing table, chair, book shelves, entertainment center and enough storage for all of their “stuff.” If there is extra space, an extra bed is useful for sleepovers with their friends.

Bedrooms are often square or rectangular in shape. This is considered the most economical design for this room. Some houses have bedroom features like wide windows with platform sitting areas that can be used for storage or as a window seat. If a room has a high ceiling, long windows can create an airy feel.

A bedroom in a cottage does have a special charm, but it becomes difficult to fit furniture into rooms because of size and low roofs.

Ultimately, a bedroom should be designed keeping in mind the comfort and personal requirements of its owner.

Bedrooms provides detailed information about bedrooms, bedroom furniture, bedroom sets, bedroom accessories, and more. Bedrooms is the sister site of Carpet Cleaning Machines.

[tags]bedrooms, bedroom furniture, bedroom sets, bedroom accessories[/tags]

Woodcraft is the process of building, carving or fashioning objects from wood. Dull plastic furniture drags down the look of your entire house. But likewise, the elegant yet simple woodcraft furniture enhances the look of your home. If you are a do-it-yourself guy, you may want to purchase unfinished wood furniture and assemble it yourself. Expertise in wood crafting allows you to sculpt solid woodcraft furniture in custom decor to suit your personal style. Styles may range from traditional arts and crafts to contemporary designs, in birch, maple, cherry, pine, and oak. Newer wood protection materials provide increased structural integrity ensuring that this beautiful furniture will stand up to heavy usage and last for seasons to come. It is a great day when you can look at a woodcrafted peice and admire the work that went into the piece.

Some History

The materials used by our ancestors in the construction of furniture were wood, metal and stone. Of the woods that appeared to have been highly valued were maple and citron. Among the rarer woods, essentially used for ornamental purposes, were ebony and satinwood. The history of North American woodcraft furniture includes many interesting tidbits. For instance, did you know that the antique 19th century Hitchcock chair with its turned legs, stenciled decorations on the back edge and rush seat, was the first mass-produced chair in America? According to Oxford Dictionary, an antique is a decorative, old-fashioned or outdated piece of furniture that is valuable because of its age. However, a sturdily built chair crafted from good wood, that is comfortable to sit on is never out-of-date.

Present day

You can browse through discount stores and get wholesale prices on the Net, or visit ones in retail buildings. You can even order quality customized furniture, in any shape, size, style, fabric, wood and finish you desire. However, shopping online is wiser, as you can easily locate woodcraftsmen or manufactures that make exactly what you want, as per the design you have in mind. You truly don’t need to go further than your processor, when looking for deftly crafted wood furniture that will ultimately become treasured family heirlooms.

Our Conclusion

Woodcraft furniture such as the Hitchcock chair, mahogany fiddle-back Empire chair, authentic Queen Anne and Philadelphia Chippendale furniture are fine examples of durable and long-lasting furniture. Manufactures using time-proven techniques built these enduring woodcraft furniture that look beautiful for generations and generations to come.

Keith Londrie II is a well known author. He has written many great articles on many topics,
including woodcraft. For more information, please visit http://www.about-woodcraft.info/
You may also be interested in Keith’s other offerings at his site http://keithlondrie.com

[tags]Woodcraft Cabinets, Woodcraft Furniture, Woodcraft Industries, Woodcraft Magazine, Woodcraft Plans,[/tags]

Bedrooms have become more multifunctional, acting not only as a space to rest, but one to entertain, relax, and pamper. To maximize the use of your bedroom design your room to be a place where you treat yourself and enjoy all possible comforts. Most popular in the outdoors on patios or in gardens, benches can be just as handy and beautiful inside your bedroom. A sophisticated backless bedroom bench can be placed at the foot of your bed and used for getting ready for work every morning, or getting ready for bed at night. You can also place a bench to the side of the bed and use it to keep your extra pillows at night.

When buying a backless bedroom bench you want to choose a bench that reflects the style of your bedroom. There are many beautiful antique benches to choose from, but designs also include upholstered and modern models. Consider the style of your bedroom furniture and decor when buying a bench. An upholstered bench will be more comfortable, but depending on the fabric you choose can be more expensive. Wood benches are easy to care for, will last a long time and come in every style. Whichever variety you choose, you will be adding a wonderful touch of design to your bedroom.

An elegant vanity with a backless vanity bench is a luxury everyone should experience. This will make you feel beautiful every time you sit down to brush your hair or put on your makeup in the morning. The bedroom vanity is making a strong comeback to bedrooms and is a nice recollection to the opulent 1940’s from where it aspired. A vanity can also be put in your bathroom to add drama and extra storage. Wherever you decide to put it, the vanity dressing table and bench are sure to make you feel special every day.

Benches can also be a great addition to your living room, hallway, or foyer. A backless bench placed against the wall in your foyer is a very inviting and sophisticated look. Useful as extra seating for parties and gatherings or a place to leave your shoes when you come in the door, a foyer storage bench is a great place to store your family’s winter coats and blankets for the summer. This comfortable piece of furniture will soon become something that you can’t imagine not having, and with time, may pass to future generations.

Jennifer Akre, owner of numerous sites specializing in indoor benches and outdoor benches, gives the consumer a chance to find the perfect Entryway
Bench and wood Outdoor Benches . Learn how to decorate your patio and home in style-clicking today: SimplyBenches.com.

[tags]hall bench,teak bench,bedroom bench,garden bench,small hand painted bombe chests,entry way bench[/tags]

The best way to protect yourself from losing money on fake furniture is still your own study and familiarization with the materials, construction styles and the styles of your chosen period. It is also important to get into the nitty-gritty details to be absolutely sure of your purchase.

If your furniture is made of wood, you should expect some shrinkage. If the sides are too perfect, they may not be as old as the dealer claims them to be. Large boards were commonly used because lumber was much more abundant in the old days. As a result, many tables and chests were often made with a single large board and the other parts were cut in awkward shapes to minimize wasted wood. Furniture made out of maple, cherry and pine should be inspected closely. Fake antiques have different wood grains in different parts of the piece because they most likely used different kinds of wood (as lumber is harder to come by these days), hence there will be different grains. If a dealer says that you are buying something made out of old pine, be careful. Many supposedly antique pine furniture pieces have been made out of old pine floorboards. You will get antique wood, but not an antique piece. This principle is applied in all other wooden furniture.

Check the color of the piece. A typical yellow color is noticeable in antique furniture because the wood’s patina “glows” with years of polishing. The color should not also be even because carving and groves will be darker than the exposed surfaces. If the wood does not have the patina of age and the dealer claims it is quite old, you are looking at a sure fake.

View the entire piece for balance. If a part looks out of place, it may be a “marriage” of old boards on a newer piece. A “marriage” is a piece made out of separate items and these are always less desirable than an intact piece, so refrain from buying these. When buying furniture with legs, a genuine antique piece should be well crafted to stand sting and proudly while the surrounding wood is expected to shrink a little. Also, feel the piece with your hands. The smoothing plane was not invented yet, so an old board feels very different from a modern, machine-planed one.

Check the dovetail joints on pieces that claim be made earlier than the 19th century. If they are too sleek and clean, they are most likely to be cut by modern tools when they should have been cut by hand. Also, take a close look at the veneers on pieces that date earlier than the 19th century. They should be thicker than machine cut veneers. Remember that all wood was sawn and separated by hand until the late 18th century when the circular saw was invented. If the piece was sawn by hand, it should bear straight or circular saw marks that are quite visible on the wooden surface.

Check the handles. Handles are important in dating a piece, but it is more common to find pieces with replaced handles. Antique handles were cast by hand from a single piece of metal, usually brass. The nuts that attached the handles in the 18th century are irregular and circular. Newer nuts are hexagonal and machine-cut.

Inspect the locks. Antique locks are made of wrought iron that were held in place by iron nails. After the 18th century, locks were made of steel and brass. Steel screws also replaced iron nails.

Check the carving: an original and complete carving on your piece adds to the price and desirability. If your carving was added with other carvings on a later date, the value of the piece is lesser. If your furniture has inlay, your piece can also have a greater value as it gets older.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Antiques

[tags]antiques[/tags]

1.Your best time of day is…… early morning ,late afternoon, any time after 8.00p.m
2.Your favorite colors are…….Clean primary colors, earth tones, black, white and beige, lively pastels.
3.Your favorite fabrics are……Linens, tweeds, hand woven, Silks, satins, smooth to the touch.
4.What kind of party do you plan…Backyard ,`relaxed for family, festive sit down dinner, simple supper.
5.Dress for ‘on the town’…..Cashmere dress looks like sweater, street length dress, halter top culottes.

THIS IS YOUR LOOK

#1. You are a warm and friendly person that likes the country look.Your life style is relaxed, you entertain easily and often. You like American and French country furniture.

#2 You are`attracted to formality and the traditional look. You are a gracious hostess and take pride in your well kept home. You admire the polished look of good period furniture, and would like to collect antiques.

#3 You are a trend setting innovator, a contemporary environment is your habitat. You have great fashion flare that spreads into your decorating ideas. You like avant garde furnishings and hate any useless clutter.

#4 and #5. If your answers were too varied, then you are an eclectic, like to go your own way. Your interests are wide ranging and you have an artistic streak. This makes you appreciate good design of any period , you like to mix decorating trends and styles to suit yourself.

The background of your home is as personal as the clothes that you wear, it is an expression of your personality and you should choose the colors and fabrics that give you pleasure, after all, YOU live there and should enjoy the experience of each room in your home, as a backdrop to yourself.

If you don’t know which colors are most flattering, think of visiting the beauty counter, having make up tested on your skin, you will have either a “cool ” “warm” “or “neutral “skin tone.In general, cool skins look best against cool colours; warm skins against warm colours;neutral skins can be flattered by all shades of yellow-green and orangey -reds.

You must select the the best ones for YOU, so it can be a case for experimentation and fun.
Also remember, that most color choices are shown in full strength ( think of paint swatches) where you can see the different tones diluted for decorating. Walls, for instance, should usually be a much lighter version of the colors shown on basic colour charts.

If you are`looking for contrasting colors , then always consider black or white, they are good choices in almost every case.

It boils down to your personal taste, but with a little help from your color charts , and maybe asking a family member or friend , what colors they think are flattering to you, you will have a much better idea of what will look good in your home, and will perhaps save money, on experimenting with too many paint pots !!!!

Ena Clewes

If you have time, please visit my web sites http://www.roomfordecor.com http://www.decorclick.com
thank you Ena Clewes , Master gardener and Interior Decorator.

[tags]home,interior,decorating,paint,wallpaper,colors,rooms,style,staging,budget,bedrooms,kitchen,kids.[/tags]

We’ve already covered many aspects of home improvement tips in parts 1 and 2 of this home improvement series.

Everything from vinyl tile floors, wood paneling, creative ways to make extra storage space, wallpapering, and more has been addressed. If you’ve missed either of these two articles, you may want to take time to read them.

With winter drawing near, we now want to take a look at ways to get ready for the big chill. Making sure your thermostat is running at top efficiently and proper attic insulation will help ensure a lower energy bill this winter.

Non-programmable Thermostats

Like most mechanical devices, a non-programmable, old fashioned thermostat will need to be tuned up from time to time. A well-tuned thermostat will mean more uniform room temperature and a lower energy bill.

If temperatures in your home swing from one extreme to another, try the following:

1. Turn the power off at the service panel.
2. Take off the thermostat cover; some snap off, others unscrew.
3. Remove visible debris and clean contacts. The style of non-programmable thermostat will determine which cleaning method is best. Use a clean, soft brush to clean contacts on some models; a photographer’s brush with a bulb for blowing air to remove dust is perfect. Some styles require you to turn the thermostat to the lowest setting in order to clean the contact; do this using a piece of thick paper. On round models, remove the body to reach the contacts; wipe contacts with a cotton swab that has been dipped in a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water. Once contacts have been cleaned, replace the cover.
4. Finally, check to make sure the thermostat is level. Set a level on top of the unit. Round to support the level, which are visible when the body is off.

Programmable Thermostats

Updating a non-programmable thermostat with a programmable model is an effective way to reduce heating costs. It can be set lower at night while everyone is tucked under blankets, sleeping. During the daytime it can be set higher to keep the house cozy and warm.

When both parents work and children are away at school, a programmable thermostat can really be indispensable. It can be set lower at night to conserve energy for a lower energy bill. Higher during early morning while the family is preparing for the busy day ahead. Set lower during day hours when everyone is away from the house; higher again mid afternoon just before family members are due home for a warm welcome.

Selecting a Programmable Thermostat

Exchanging an old fashioned thermostat for a programmable model is a great home improvement tip in and of itself. But, what model of programmable thermostat should you get? Several factors must be considered.

Select a model with features compatible with your needs and lifestyle. Decide how many cycles per day and schedules per week are required for your household. A model with a manual and vacation override is a good idea; select one easy to program.

Avoid models that are complicated with multi-features that far exceed your requirements. They can be confusing and cost more, and will prove less efficient as a result. Before making a purchase, however, check for system compatibility.

Installing a Programmable Thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat is not time-consuming. It only takes about an hour. However, the job may seem complicated or prove too nervy for persons not experienced working with electronic circuitry. If this is the case, you may feel more comfortable hiring an HVAC contractor for the job.

If you elect to do the job yourself you will need the following tools: a drill, a level, a screwdriver, a pair of wire strippers, and 2 pencils. Follow the directions below:

1. Turn off the power to the heating/cooling system at the service panel.
2. Unscrew or snap off the cover to the old thermostat; take off the unit’s body.
3. Label the wire locations, and then disconnect them. To keep wires from falling into the wall cavity, wrap them around one of the pencils.
4. Strip about 3/8″ insulation from the wire ends. If ends are corroded, clean them with steel wool.
5. Remove the pencil and slip the wires through the breastplate of the new programmable thermostat. Position the breastplate on the wall; use a level to insure it is positioned straight.
6. Mark placement for new screw holes. Remove the plate, drill the holes. Insert anchors; screw the plate in place.
7. Attach the wires to the new thermostat following the manufacturer’s directions. When you are through, push the excess length of wire back through the hole in the wall.
8. Install batteries, if required. Snap the front cover in place. Turn on the power from the service panel.
9. Check the new thermostat’s operation; program the unit and test it out.

If there is a problem, check the troubleshooting section of the programmable thermostat owner’s manual, or call the manufacturer.

Attic Insulation Home Improvement Tips

Proper insulation is essential if you want a lower energy bill, especially for homes in colder climates such as Ontario, Toronto, and Alberta. And although insulating the attic might not be all that expensive a project, energy efficient house insulation can increase the market value of your home.

When working with insulation, always wear a hat, goggles, mask, and gloves.

Types of Attic Insulation

There are various types of insulation: fiberglass batts and blankets, loose-fill fiberglass, rock wool, and cellulose; polystyrene foam sheets, and urethane foam. Of these, four are appropriate for the average attic.

If you hire a home improvement contractor, your best choices for attic insulation are more varied. Loose-fill rock wool and loose-fill fiberglass both require a contractor. Both also provide better coverage and are more effective than batts over ceiling joists.

If you elect to do the insulating yourself, Fiberglass batts or blankets, and loose-fill cellulose are your best options. Fiberglass is economical, easy to install, and nonflammable. Its downside is that heat is lost through framing.

Loose-fill cellulose provides better coverage than batts over ceiling joists, and is easy to install in the attic. It is, however, a messy, dusty job.

Laying Fiberglass Batting

If you already have insulation in your attic, run batts over the tops of joists at right angles to the existing insulation. This will cover gaps in the first layer and insulate thermal bridges (heat escape routes) caused by the joists.

Work from the eaves toward the center. Use a plywood platform while working. If the batting you are using is faced, slash it every few inches so it won’t trap moisture.

The floor above an unheated basement or crawl space can also be insulated using fiberglass batting. Fill spaces between floor joists with the vapor-retarder up against the floor. Hold the insulation in place using sturdy wire cut slightly longer than the width of the cavity between joists. Push them into place against the batts every 2 or 3 feet, bowing them upward.

Final Home Improvement Tips

Insulating the attic and floor over an unheated basement with fiberglass batts might be a project the average homeowners has the time and patience required to complete by them self. Other types of insulation, or insulation projects for other areas of the home such as crawl spaces and walls might be best handled from an experienced home improvement contractor.

Harsh weather elements, including freezing temperatures, humidity, and extreme heat require special methods and materials for effective insulation. An experienced home renovation contractor will know what techniques and materials to use.

Related Articles: Home Improvement Tips Part 1, Home Improvement Tips Part 2

Max Sheppard is Co-Owner of HandyCanadian.com. HandyCanadian.com is your one-stop renovation and home improvement resource website: where homeowners locate
professional home renovation contractors. HandyCanadian.com also offers free Home Improvement and Garden tips.

[tags]home improvement tips, home renovation, home improvement contractor, HVAC contractor, lower energy[/tags]

Since the 18th century cabinet maker have made beautiful cabinets with exquisite detail in woodworking. There are many of today’s kitchen cabinet makers that continue to duplicate the techniques of 18th cabinet makers such as Thomas Sheraton, Thomas Chippendale and George Hepplewhite

The use of finishing tools such as routers to create decorative edgings are used for techniques such as creating appropriate joints, shelving systems.

Custom cabinets are fit to specifications and usually are made by a cabinetry maker in a small woodworking shop.

Stock cabinets or are ready made and many have the custom feel to them. They are best for a budget

Semi Custom is cabinetry is made to your order in a factory and usually is less expensive than the custom cabinet makers working from their shop.

Don’t get me wrong it is well worth a trip to one of these cabinet making shops to compare prices and materials. Most Cabinet makers are proud to take you on a tour their shop

Many designers can add features as upgrading hardware, adding molding and different painting techniques.

The best way to find a quality cabinet described above is to check out with your designer or the builder you have chosen to do your home or kitchen remodeling project.

Pick at least 3 manufacturers and read about them. Go to the show room and check out the latest finishing techniques and materials used. What kind of woods is used to build the cabinets? Is the hardware solid brass or not. Can the hardware be upgraded?

Make sure you work closely with your contractor to view all cabinets before they install them.

Make sure that your kitchen cabinets come equipped with lots of storage. Cabinets can be designed exactly the way you like them. If you are selecting a semi custom cabinets than pick ones that have additional storage. Do a cabinet manufacturer comparison on storage space and see who has the extra storage

For the latest in cabinet colors mixing dark wood tones with cr

For over a century slipcovers have been a common household item for furnishing. However, these old slipcovers were often uncomfortable and not very attractive. The modern slipcovers today allow you to make an affordable fashion statement with your furniture. Many of the slipcovers today come in a wide variety of patterns and colors so you can find one to match any design need. Not only that, but today’s slipcover fabrics are made from material that is easy to clean.

In the past slipcovers were only used for sofas. Today, companies supply slipcovers for almost every form of seating furniture. Everything from ottomans to recliners or loveseats to dining room chairs can be helped with the addition of a fashionable slipcover.

Slipcovers are an excellent alternative to the expensive cost of refurnishing your house with new seating furniture or reupholstering your old furniture. However, custom slipcovers can still be a bit pricey. So if you want a cheap yet fashionable option you can consider getting a ready made slipcover as a quick and fashionable option to upgrade your old furniture.

There are many reasons why people are considering slipcovers. If you have young children or pets in your household you know how difficult it can be to keep furniture clean. Slipcovers are an excellent way to protect your furniture from soiling and everyday use by kids and pets.

By purchasing slipcovers you have the great advantage of buying on the cheap any pattern and even any type of furniture from flea markets and yard sales then once you go home just throw a simple slipcover over it this will allow you to match the seating to the existing d

Growing your own plants from seed can be one of the most
exciting and worthwhile gardening activities. And of course
it is a really inexpensive way to grow the number of plants
you need for your garden or containers.

In this article I am going to deal with growing seeds from
packets purchased at a garden centre - as this is the
easiest way to start. These packets will have a picture on
the front and growing instructions on the reverse, including
germination times and the best time of year to sow. The
instructions are important so do keep the packet safe even
if you have used all the seeds!

1. Equipment you need:

- Clean pots or seed trays, with drainage holes and not too
flimsy

- Seed compost or multi-purpose compost is just as effective

- Clear plastic bags or cling film or propagator

- Vermiculite - can be used to give the seeds a light

covering instead of compost
- Dibber or pencil and widger or teaspoon

- Small watering can with fine rose

- Plant labels - white plastic ones are cheap

2. Sowing the seed:

- Fill your pots or seed trays with the compost to about
1 cm below the rim and water the compost well

- For small seeds, tip them into the palm of your hand and
then lightly tap it with your other hand to sprinkle the
seeds thinly on to the compost

- For large seeds, push the seed into the compost until it
is just covered by its own depth of compost

- Cover the seeds thinly with a little compost - do not
cover very fine seeds

- Seal the pots or trays inside a large loose plastic bag
or propagator, or cover with cling film

- Place them in a warm, light place - on a windowsill but
out of direct sunlight

- Water gently if the compost starts to dry out

3. Germination and pricking out:

When the seeds start to germinate, the first thing you will
see growing are the seed leaves - two small round leaves
that look very much the same on all plants. Then the first
pair of true leaves appear and you can recognise that these
tiny leaves are like those on the mature plant. This is the
time to move the seedlings into new pots.

- Fill clean 9 cms pots or seed trays with fresh compost
and water well

- Gently loosen each seedling from its pot/tray with a
widger or the handle of a teaspoon, holding the seedling by
its seed leaf

- Make a hole in the new compost with a dibber or pencil and
gently lower the seedling into the hole, making sure that
all the roots are tucked into the hole and the seed leaves
are just above the surface

- Carefully fill the hole to cover the roots

- You can space the seedlings in a seed tray about 3-4 cms
apart; otherwise plant them individually into pots

- Water carefully, either by soaking the pot or tray, or
using a small watering can with a fine rose

- Place in bright light, but not direct sunlight, and check
regularly

- Keep watered, but not too wet

- Once the roots fill the pots or trays, then it is time to
plant them either into your containers in the garden or
into the garden border.

It’s not as complicated as you might think, but it does
require a little thought and care - the equipment must be
clean to prevent disease or infection; don’t over-water;
provide enough light; handle gently; and check regularly.

And that’s all there is to it!

Fran Barnwell is a self-taught gardener, learning through experience in her own garden. Fran understands the difficulties that face new gardeners, and has written The Ultimate Guide to Gardening for Beginners, a successful eBook that helps anyone new to gardening to get started, explaining the basics in easy to understand terms. To find out more and to sign up to receive a free series of articles, go to http://www.NewToGardening.com

[tags]garden, gardening, seeds, plants, beginners[/tags]