101s

How To Read a Tape Measure (Plus Tricks)

It's a tape measure, not rocket science. How hard can it be to use? It's not. Basic measuring isn't that difficult, but there are a few features on a tape measure that you may be overlooking. Here is a break down of the anatomy, basic uses and some tricks for maximizing the handiness of your… Continue reading How To Read a Tape Measure (Plus Tricks)

101s, Repair

What to do (before calling a plumber) if your dishwasher isn’t draining.

Is there ever a convenient time to find out the dishwasher is not draining? I swear, if you are hosting a large group dinner there is a higher chance of dishwasher problems. Recently I opened my dishwasher to see murky water in the basin below, not good. Here are steps to troubleshoot the problem BEFORE… Continue reading What to do (before calling a plumber) if your dishwasher isn’t draining.

101s, Paint

What is the Difference Between Masking Tape and Painter’s Tape? *Plus 10 Tape Hacks*

Both masking tape and painter's tape are made with a light weight paper backing that is easy to tear. Both tapes are used to mask off, or block, areas where paint is not desired. So, what's the difference? Growing up and helping my dad on paint jobs, we used the typical manila colored masking tape… Continue reading What is the Difference Between Masking Tape and Painter’s Tape? *Plus 10 Tape Hacks*

101s, Projects

Install a Wireless, Keyless Entry for Your Garage in Minutes (with video)

The easiest home improvement task I have ever done in my life. Seriously, if I had known how simple it would be I would not have put it off for so long. A keyless entry for your garage can make it so much easier for children or guests (via temporary PIN code) to access your… Continue reading Install a Wireless, Keyless Entry for Your Garage in Minutes (with video)

101s, Paint

How Do I Clean My Brush After Painting?

How to clean a paintbrush

Take the time to care for your paintbrushes. After the paint, a paintbrush is the next most important thing for painting. If you spend the money getting a quality brush, spend the time to take care of it. A few of the brushes pictured above are about 30 years old. Yeah, go back to the… Continue reading How Do I Clean My Brush After Painting?

101s, Paint

Painting Checklist: Everything You Need to Paint a Room

I have painted hundreds of walls and rooms in my 30 plus years of painting. Enjoy the compiled list of supplies I find necessary for a successful paint job. A plastic tote is the best way to keep everything in one place and makes traveling to job sites easy. A basic (small paint job) list… Continue reading Painting Checklist: Everything You Need to Paint a Room

101s, Makeover, Repair

How To Reupholster a Dining Chair

Food and fabric are not friends. If the thought of re-covering your less than perfect dining chair seats is overwhelming, fear not. Here is a step-by-step to get the most fabulous upholstered chair seats. How Much Fabric Do I Need To Cover A Chair Seat? The amount of fabric will vary depending on the pattern… Continue reading How To Reupholster a Dining Chair

101s, Makeover

Professional Interior Designer Answers Your Color Questions

Do you remember asking about color for your home and I promised you answers and advice from a professional? Well, my friends, here is the long awaited post. Meet Carolyn Carolyn Call has been a professional Interior Designer for 30 years. Her background includes working with the nation's top home builders designing model homes throughout… Continue reading Professional Interior Designer Answers Your Color Questions

101s, Repair

Getting Caulky 101: How To Caulk Baseboard Like a Pro

I have a thing for straight lines. Honestly, it could be because there is so much chaos in day-to-day life that I am drawn to projects where I can have control. I don't know. There is probably someone out there who could analyze me...but don't. That would make things awkward. Seriously, just don't. Taping off… Continue reading Getting Caulky 101: How To Caulk Baseboard Like a Pro

101s, Paint

How to Paint Rounded Corners (video)

It's easy to paint to a sharp 90 degree edge, but what do you do if you have rounded corners? The bullnose style is more common in contemporary building than ever before. It makes for a nice, smooth transition from one room to the next and it eliminates the sharp corners for kids to hit… Continue reading How to Paint Rounded Corners (video)