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Window Treatments to Sew

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Windows frame one’s view of the outside world. Give them the attention they deserve. Sew stunning window treatments to match your home décor. Many types of window coverings are easy enough for beginners to sew.

Types of Window Treatments to Sew

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The basic types include curtains, draperies, valances, shades, and cornices. In some cases, several kinds are used in combination. Draperies are often paired with sheer curtains. Shades can be combined with most any window treatment.

Sewing Shades

Roman shades can be lined or unlined. A fun sewing project, these are very decorative. There are several styles of Roman shades. Give careful thought to the tie-ups that will be used with these. Options include roping, ribbon, and fabric strips. This project is suitable for beginners.

A simple rolled shade is easy to sew. This can be made using a dowel. Sew a pocket on the top of the fabric to hold the dowel. Hem the sides and bottom. Add several decorative fabric strips to use when rolling up the shade.

Sewing Draperies

Some draperies are more challenging to make than ordinary curtains. Usually, these will have a lining. They can be pleated or unpleated. Rather than sewing each individual pleat, there is an easy alternative. Use the pleater tape instead.

Cornices and Faux Cornices

For this treatment, the fabric is attached to the cornice board. Another option is to sew a faux cornice, which is made much like a valance. It will resemble a true cornice. This has a rod pocket in the top so the faux cornice hangs on the curtain rod.

Importance of Windows

You have to consider your current windows before you start sewing curtains and treatments. Different types, requite different treatments. For example, you cannot place the same curtains on a double hung window, as you can on a casement window. For more information visit http://climatechwindows.com and review the many styles of window replacements.

Sewing Curtains

These are the easiest type of window treatment to sew. They’re suitable for beginners. The choices include a simple pocket curtain with the rod pockets at the top. Tab-top curtains and café curtains are also simple to make.

Curtains can be lined or unlined. These can be dressed up with pleats, pin tucks, appliqué, and patchwork.

There are numerous ways to embellish standard tab-top curtains. Instead of tabs, add grommets to the top edge. Then, weave a long strip of fabric through each grommet and around the curtain rod into the next grommet.

Add large decorative bow ties to tab-top curtains. Cut fabric or decorative ribbon into long strips, and place one into each of the tabs. Tie the ends of the ribbon or fabric into large bows.

Sewing Valances

Valances are easy to sew. These can be used alone or in combination with other window treatments. They’re often combined with café curtains.

As an alternative to a conventional valance, consider other simple options. Drape decorative tea towels, embroidered handkerchiefs, napkins, bandanas, or squares of fabric over the top of the curtain.

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Window Treatments: Curtains and Drapes: Tips and Advice

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How To Choose The Best Window Coverings For Your Home

There are so many options when it comes to curtains and drapes that it can be difficult to know which is the best choice for your home. So, here are a few tips and definitions to help make the decision a bit easier.

Curtain Styles and Lengths

  • Single panel curtains are made up of just that: a single curtain panel that can be swept to one side with a tieback.
  • Double panels are the most popular style of curtains and drapes. The look is streamlined and classic. They can either be pushed one to each side of the window and left hanging on their own, or tiebacks can be used to hold them open. The first look is simple, the second a little more elegant.

While panels can be hung on a curtain rod by themselves, they can also be given an entirely different look with the help of a valance. A valance that runs across the top of the curtains gives them a more feminine and romantic appearance. Similarly, a structured pelmet that runs across the top will lend a contained and sophisticated air.

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When it comes to length, remember that longer is better than shorter. Curtains should just brush the floor, break the floor by an inch or two, or puddle on the floor by a few extra inches. The first look is crisp and tailored, the second a little more relaxed, and the third lush and romantic. It’s best not to go with short curtains, as the look is now considered quite outdated. If the window in question can’t accommodate long curtains, try shades or blinds rather than short curtains. For window sizes and more tips, visit Canadian Choice and have a look at their calculators and guides. They manufacture custom made windows and doors, so it should be easy to find what you are looking for there.

Custom Curtains versus Ready-Made Curtains

Custom curtains are wonderful if the budget allows, or if you’re handy with a sewing machine. Custom curtains allow for more variation in terms of size and fabric options. On the other hand, ready-made drapes are less expensive, they can be purchased quickly and returned if they don’t work, and there are a lot of options available.

Curtain Fabrics: Pros and Cons

  • Cotton is versatile and easy to clean, but can sometimes be a bit stiff.
  • Velvet is luxurious and is heavy enough to provide good privacy, however the look can be too heavy for some rooms.
  • Sheers are graceful and elegant and still allow some light in, but they don’t offer much in the way of privacy.
  • Silk is refined and beautiful but will likely need to be lined to ensure adequate privacy.
  • Linen can be light or heavy depending on whether or not it’s lined.
  • Wool is better suited to traditional rooms. It’s a bit heavy, but it’s quite strong and can support accessories like fringe and tassels.
  • Microfibers such as ultrasuede can look luxurious and are very easy to clean. But like velvet, they can look a little heavy in some rooms.

When it comes to curtains and drapes there are a lot of options. But as long as you take the proper measurements, plan your needs appropriately, and stick to your chosen style, you’ll end up with the right window coverings for your home.

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Top 5 Tips To Follow When Getting Windows Redone

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Top 5 Tips That You Could Follow For Windows and Doors Replacement And Repair

You windows might have started to look really worn out, might be getting drafty or might as well be cranky while operating. You are either contemplating a repair or a replacement. Whenever you opt for windows and doors replacement, you should have a clear idea of what you are walking into beforehand. If you think that replacement is the only solution, think again. It might seem that the cost of the new windows is worth it because you will ultimately be saving energy. However, what your windows might really need is a simple repair like sealing all the air leaks.

While this may sound nice and easy, it not always is. Should you decide to seek processional help, windows and doors Ottawa is a great place to start. Canadian Choice has been in business for over 30 years, and they are experts in replacement and repair of windows. If you need a professional opinion on the status of your windows, I suggest you give them a call.

Find out the top 5 tips that you need to follow while getting your windows redone/replaced:

  1. Rotten frames

What will you do when you have rotten frames and window sashes that allow water and air leaks into your house? The cause could be anything like improper primer application or paint, insufficient seasoning, etc. Unless and until the damage is spotty, rotten frames would essentially require replacing and rebuilding the frames.

  1. High/Low

While you are getting your windows replaced and buying new windows, you should know the concept of high/low. How effectively a window prevents heat loss is determined by its high R-value. Windows with low-E or low emissivity will keep the heat inside in cold weather and outside in hot weather. You will need to determine your preference accordingly.

  1. Repairing all-wood windows

All-wood windows are durable enough to last more than 100 years. They could deteriorate quickly if they are left unpainted. The damage caused is mostly superficial and might not require replacement at all. Spotty damages can be repaired with penetrating liquid epoxy. Holes in sills and sashes can be filled in with epoxy putty. Tubular vinyl and adhesive foam are other weather-stripping solutions.

  1. For glass units

Glazing glass windows is an effective solution to replacement. If your glass units are fine, replace cracked and missing putty. However, you will definitely need to replace cracked single plane glass windows. If your double-pane windows are cracked or fogged, reseal or replace them with a glass fabricator.

  1. Your window options

While you are getting your windows replaced, remember to list out your window options. Here are a few common window types you could choose from:

  • Casement windows

These window types offer superb ventilation and remain tightly sealed after being closed. They swing in and out just like a door does and operates with an audible crank. This is ideal for hard-to-reach places that need easy access.

  • Picture windows

They are large and fixed and because of their dramatic size and shape, they let in a lot of natural light and offer unhindered view of the outside. These windows however, do not offer much ventilation.

  • Bay windows

Quite heavy and needing additional support, these windows are a staple in Victorian-style houses. With casements on either side, they are essentially made of a single fixed window in the middle.

While getting window or door renovations done, there are a number of things to be kept in mind and these pointers are a few significant ones that will help you to a great extent.

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How Different Colored Vinyl Windows Can Make You Happier

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If you enjoy a pop of color in the interior of your house, then it is obvious that you are the type of person who loves seeing color and happiness around you. You might even have colored your front door with a bold color rather than go with the common white or brown.

So, if you enjoy having colors in your life, then you would enjoy the idea of having different colored vinyl windows. With that you would be amazed on how colorful your house will be because now if your front door has a bright color to it so does your window.

It will be worth it because your house will look like an amazing art work and the people all around will enjoy looking at your house. Because your window is colorful, you will enjoy coming home because you know there will be a pop of color to your windows and also your windows will be different, unlike those other houses whose color are just plain white or other dark shade. Your house will never look dull because it will always make you feel happy especially if it is in color you like.

When your windows are colorful, it will always add a sense of joy to yourself or your emotions, and it can help with minimizing any negativity that you have. It can also help you to be more relax or increase your energy because with a bright color it can always set the mood to be more cheerful.

Stay Happy

You can never go wrong when you want to add pretty colors in your life because it will only show that you are living a happy and progressive life and not let anything get you down because you want to be happier.

On the weekends, you will not have any dull Saturdays or Sundays because there will be so much fun for you to do and all the energy that you got will be thanks to how colorful your windows are. Okay, this might be a little bit exaggerated.

And if your house is colorful you should make your property colorful too, by adding a variety of flowers for example. This way, you can add color and fun inside and outside of your home and have the most amazing property in your neighbourhood. Neighbors will run by just to get a glance of it, or stop to take a selfie with it and post it on their social media accounts with the hash tag “dream house” or “lunatic’s house”.

Super Colors

With colored vinyl windows, you will be removing the “boredom” that you see in every house you drive by. They all look the same, they all give away the dullness of life and the lack of creativity in builders and home owners alike.

You will never lose your sense of creativity because when there are a lot of colors in your area, you will be filled with wonderful ideas. You will always feel happy and energetic because your eyes will deliver such a happy and colorful site that will only add to the energy and positivity of your brown. You wouldn’t even feel tired because everything looks so colorful.

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How To Renovate Your Bathroom Cabinets

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Updating bathrooms are at the top of many homeowners’ wish lists when it comes to room renovations and updates. Replacing old bathroom cabinets are a cost effective way in which to accomplish this. They are available in a plethora of sizes, styles, and colors. You can purchase them in any local or big box hardware store, and bathroom fixture supply centers.

Please note: The term bathroom cabinets include bathroom vanities as well.

Once you have chosen the cabinet(s) that fit your style, and budget, the next decision is to either hire a contractor to install the unit(s), or do the job yourself. Although taking the job on yourself may sound overwhelming, it really is not as hard as you may think. There are plenty of books that provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to properly remove the old cabinets and install the new ones.

If you learn better by seeing the process, many of the big box hardware stores teach free weekend classes on various do it yourself home improvements including bathroom cabinet replacement. Doing the removal and installation yourself will save a lot of money that can be used towards other fun and effective bathroom updates. In addition you will experience a great sense of satisfaction and pride by learning to do something that you never thought possible.

If replacing the bathroom cabinets is not in your budget, all is certainly not lost. There are other cost effective ways to give your bathroom that fresh new look that you desire. Instead of replacing the cabinet(s) you can paint or stain them. The project will only take a couple of hours, and the paint or stain, with supplies and materials should cost you under fifty dollars. Since you will already have the painting supplies out, and are in gear to paint, it is the perfect time to add a fresh coat on the walls. Paint is an extremely cost effective way to change the look and feel of your bathroom. Use a color or colors that contrast with the new cabinet color.

Changing the cabinet(s) handles and knobs, otherwise know as hardware, is another great way to update the look of your bathroom without breaking the bank. Anyone that owns a screwdriver can perform this task. You can typically purchase new handles and knobs for as low as one dollar each, and it only takes a minute or two at best to replace the old hardware.

If the cabinet you are working on is the vanity, than you should give serious consideration to replacing the old faucet with a new one. You can purchase them in the same store that you bought the cabinet. There are many brands, styles, and colors to chose from, so you will be able to easily find a faucet that is perfect for your taste. There is also a wide range of prices, and the fancy models tend to get expensive. That being said, many fixtures are available for well under one hundred dollars.

A brand new faucet combined with an updated or new vanity will provide an entirely new look for your bathroom. In addition, changing out the faucet is a project that you can do yourself. You only need a few basic tools, and there are books that provide step-by-step instructions on how to do it properly. The big box hardware stores also teach classes on weekends if you are more of a visual learner.

Renovating your bathroom cabinets yourself will not only update the room, it will save a lot of money. You will also feel a great sense of accomplishment every time you step into the bathroom. Give it a go this weekend, and knock that bathroom renovation project off of your list.

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Renovate Your Kitchen in 11 Easy Steps

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Kitchen renovation can be a complex, costly and time consuming endeavor. Most kitchen renovations require combined efforts from different contractors in a series of steps which might keep your kitchen out of use for a period of four to eight weeks. To effectively renovate your kitchen follow these simple steps to plan and implement a stress free and cost effective kitchen renovation.

1. Carry Out Enough Research

Read books and magazines sharing information about kitchen renovation styles and designs. You can also visit other homes and share your idea in order to trigger a stream of more ideas that might help you.

2. Budget

Kitchen renovation is a very costly undertaking which might take more than $60,000 according to recent research. Because of this, setting up a budget for your kitchen renovation and staying within it is a matter of great importance. Decide how much money you can afford to spend by considering your finances.

Furthermore, consider how long you intend to stay in your house. If you plan to sell your house within three to six years then your kitchen renovation should be viewed as a real estate improvement. Only spend the amount you believe you will rake back after the sell. On the other hand if you plan on living in your house longer than five years, do a remodel that will make you/your family comfortable.


3. Design

Work with a kitchen designer to come up with a plan and layout for your kitchen. Schedule a consultation and an initial inspection to measure/assess space requirements and discuss design options with respect to layout;flooring;lighting;cabinetry;appliances;finishes and fittings. This will help you to come up with a well detailed and itemized plan.

4. Contractor/s

To perform the kitchen renovations, hire an experienced contractor/s. To reduce the cost , you can do less technical tasks like removing and storing utensils, food, appliances and crockery; dismantling and removing existing kitchen appliances, benchtops, cabinetry, sinks, splashbacks, light fittings, finishes, taps and floor coverings

5. Structural Renovations

If your kitchen will require structural alterations for instance adding a door, skylight, window or removing a load bearing wall to open up more space, call in an insured and licensed builder early enough to coordinate the job. This procedure is usually messy, noisy and sometime hazardous. Therefore keep everyone except workers out of the area and warn neighbors about the noise in advance.

6. Plumbing

You should provide your plumber with a detailed flow plan early enough. Schedule your plumber to install/re-position pipes, water heating units, and drains.

7. Electrical

You should schedule an electrician immediately after structural alterations but before flooring, tiling and cabinetry. In addition, ensure all the new electricals are feasible.

8. Splashbacks and Benchtops

Your kitchen benchtop/splashback installation can be done by a specialist or your builder.

Traditional-kitchen-renovation-idea9. Flooring

Floors should be properly sealed and hard-wearing because the kitchen floor is highly trafficked. Choose the best flooring materials for instance wood and tiles for a lasting finish.

10. Cabinets

You may require a carpenter early in kitchen renovation to site doors, windows or walls; lay wooden flooring or install pantry. Reschedule the carpenter after the completion of plumbing, flooring and electrical installation to install cabinetry, benches,shelving,buffets, splashbacks and benchtops.

11. Sinks, tapware and hot water appliances

Reschedule your plumber to fit sinks, water filters in-sink garbage disposal and tapware. In addition, he can install, Connect and test dishwashers, hot water systems and water recycling systems.

12. Painting

This is a simple and short job. You should clean, prepare and dry all surfaces before varnishing. Also, allow enough time for the paint to fully dry.

I hope these steps will significantly help you to do your kitchen renovation perfectly well.

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Kitchen Renovation Tips

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A kitchen renovation is a big step to take, the tiniest improvements in your kitchen gives your lifestyle a whole new meaning. Regardless of whether you are remodeling the island, buying new utensils and kitchen appliances or just fixing new cabinet knobs, renovating your kitchen will make you feel at peace and it upgrades your home. Remodeling your kitchen is a great source of functionality, comfort, efficiency and glee to your cooking and gathering space, however, the process can be expensive, time consuming and also very demanding, therefore, you should not get into it rashly. Before even going to the showroom or your pro, there are a few things you need to consider. Know where to start and have a plan for the remodeling process, this is ensures that there are no surprises.

To start with, why are you renovating your kitchen? This is the first question that you should contemplate on, knowing the purpose of your renovation assists you in even knowing what to budget for and the path to take. For instance you could be replacing worn out cabinets, this requires things like knobs, hinges, among others. You could also want to make your kitchen more spacious and usable or just increasing the storage space. Pointing out why you want to remodel helps your professional contractor in advising you on the areas that are suitable for you.

columbus-kitchen-remodeling-contractors

Durability always depends on quality; ensure that you use high quality materials for your renovation. This ensures that your kitchen lasts longer, for instance when you use low quality slide drawers and hinges, opening and shutting your cabinet doors will be a nightmare, and your drawers will not also be opening after some time. Quality is always expensive, but remembers, cheap i s also expensive.

The first thing that the eye catches in your kitchen; the countertops, they are so noticeable. I recommend granite it is available in various colors, choose your color, dark or light, the price depends on the brand. Granite is the best since it is of high quality, and granite is granite, the chances of you getting low quality granite is almost zero; stone is stone. Moreover natural stones are more durable.

506b034cfb04d60a5100169f._w.1500_s.fit_The floor, this is another conundrum. Choose a floor type that compliments your cabinets and countertops. Durability, design and maintenance are things that you should always put into consideration. Granite and Limestone tiles are good choices but they may look awkward if not installed in the right way. Before picking any of them first consult your contractor on his expertise on these types of floors. If this does not fit in your budget, hardwood is also a good choice; you also save a lot with this type of floor.

Finally in your remodeling always consider how much time you need to keep the fixtures clean. Some surfaces such as countertops, marble, granite and terracotta are good at camouflaging stains and dirt. However, smooth surfaces and light such as ceramic and laminate show little dirt and are easy to clean. For cabinets you could paint or use the satin cabinets. Stained woods looks amazing but some finishes do not last long therefore you could go for the brush-painted cabinets for more personalization.

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Choosing the right Cabinets for your Bathroom

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A beautiful and functional bathroom can be a real asset to any property, not to mention that it will also be a pleasure to own. There are two important things that cannot be compromised, when it comes to a bathroom. These are functionality/utility and aesthetics. A purely functional one with no aesthetic concerns at all can soon turn into an eyesore whereas a very beautiful one with no functionality at all can soon turn into a big inconvenience. It is important to achieve the right balance between functionality and aesthetics and both these factors should not be compromised. This is why you should choose only the best bathroom cabinets for your home. Here are a few important factors to consider before you make your choice.

bathroom-vanities

First, you must consider the purpose of the cabinet. This must include everything you will want to store in it because the every reason you are opting for one is storage. This means you will have to get the size right and ensure that there is enough space to keep everything you will need to store inside it. Thanks to innovative bathroom furniture manufacturers, you can get very well designed ones which are ingenious when it comes to providing ample storage space. It is also wise to choose one which is of the right shape for your bathroom. There are many shape options available too like corner cabinets or square ones or rectangular ones. Depending on where in your bathroom you will be placing it, choose the right size and shape. Visit windows winnipeg for more info.

After taking into account its primary purpose and the space in which it will be installed, you must also take into account whether you want one which is integrated with the countertop/wash basin or one which is free standing. There are advantages and disadvantages to both these choices and you will have to take into account your budget and needs to make the right choice. Again, the amount of space available in the bathroom and other aesthetic considerations will play a major role in influencing your decision. It is also important to choose a product which offers maximum value for money. For this, it makes better sense to shop using the smart online route. This will mean that you are not paying for retail spaces but buying directly from the manufacturer/factory floor. This also means you will get significantly lower prices for great quality products too.

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If you will not settle for less than the best bathroom cabinets at the best prices, take advantage of the internet. You will find that there are many products available online and you will be able to browse through a large variety from the comfort of your home or office. You will also save the time and effort it will take to visit retailers. Apart from the cost advantage, you can also enjoy the advantage of more choices when you choose the online shopping option. Ensure that you choose to buy good quality products from a reputed and reliable brand whose manufacturer has been in the market for many years. This way, you can be sure of the quality of the product you will receive.

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