My Frugal Life - Managing on a Budget
Yes, great tips. We also started saving our leaves this past fall, but they arent quite decomposed yet. Im exploring the whole compost thing. Just hate to wait a year for it to be ready, but what are the other options. Heres a good link I found: http://www...
Lilac Bushes Leaves Turning Brown?
I would take a leaf into a nursery and see if they can analyze it under a microscope. A soil test also is a good idea, but it seems odd that it would be so different a few feet away from the others.
Craft: Kids Clubhouse
Love it. Ive seen these types of houses for sale for $2,000 or more at nice nurseries, but they dont have the person touch that yours does!
Hydrangeas Not Blooming?
I would go with the right fertilizer. You might have been using the kind that works on the roots (nitrogen based) and not the flowering. The 10-10-10 should be fine or ask at a local nursery if you want to really push the blooms.
Growing an Easter Lily Indoors?
One important note-- these are highly poisonous to cats (not sure about dogs). Many people dont know that so I thought Id pass it along. Heres a link on lily care: http://www.thegardenhelper.com/easterlily.html
Choosing Plants for "Curb Appeal"?
Red, pink or orange would go. Remember to use larger pots near the front so you are adjusting to the scale of the house.
Choosing Plants for "Curb Appeal"?
You need some contrasting colors, such as white, pink or yellow. But, dont just buy bushes, plan out the whole front on graph paper so you are looking at the whole front yard. Try some flowering shrubs with fragrance (lilac, some viburnum, roses) near the front...
My Frugal Life: Tips For Spring
Love the cat tower concept. Not sure that ours would dig it, but its worth a try.
Flowering Plants for Garden Walkways?
There also are some interesting walkables that are designed to go between the steps...you can also do them on the side, but then if they run over a bit, its not a big deal if you step on them. There are some sedum varieties that grow along the ground versus...
Saving Time is Like Saving Money
I agree with the Facebook comments. Check it once a week or so for 15 minutes, but otherwise who needs it?
Show Up REALLY Early at Garage Sales
I actually called a neighbor the day before we did our garage sale because she has a daughter that would fit into most of the clothes we were selling. She came over the night before and bought $200 worth, so if done right, it is a good idea.
Removing Moss from Asphalt Roof Tiles
Great idea. My only problem is getting up on the roof. Perhaps a handyman can help?
Plastic Storage Bin Greenhouse?
I also think you are trying to do too much with the storage bin. The lights and other instructions will be a great thing and should get you through. Good luck
Planting Day Lily Bulbs?
I think you have to give them more time-- another week or two before doing anything. Its good that the roots are getting established, although I know its hard to wait for the top growth. Heres more from a gardening site: http://www.whiteflowerfarm.com/growing...
Best Flooring for a Screen Porch?
I would go with deck type flooring and you could put a few area rugs around if you need to. Or, another option is ceramic tile, but that is colder on your feet.
What Color Countertops Should I Get?
I think quartz is ideal because it gives you some color variation that will add texture. I would go for a middle of the road, leaning toward lighter blue.
How To Avoid Misleading Environmental Claims
Wow. Great info. I will read those labels more carefully!
Painting a Kitchen With Mahogany Cabinets and Green Granite Countertops?
I would go with a shade or two darker than the countertop. It would add a nice background without taking all the attention! Heres more on painting: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/architecture-and-design/decorative-painting.shtml
Watering Plants That Have Been Wintered Indoors?
Yes, just dont move them outside until youre sure the danger of frost has gone.
Cabinet Color Advice for Kitchen With Dark Mahogany Floors and Blue Granite Countertops?
I think a white, off-white or a white with a glaze that has a hint of gray in it. If Im seeing this correctly, there is a little gray in the blue countertop. Might be nice to pull that out subtly.
Brightening Up a Drab Bedroom?
I would use a color from the polka dots and paint. Painting is a great refresher and not too hard to do.
Renovation Return Values
I would always check with a local realtor (Im not one, but they do know the market) to figure out what is needed in each neighborhood. Im a big fan of good painting, adding warm colors instead of the builder white, and things like cabinet hardware, nice artwork...
Cabinets and Trim for Mint and Chocolate Kitchen?
For the trim, I would go with a crisp white (assuming youre painting), as this will help highlight the other colors.
Energy Saving Tips for Using Dehumidifiers
Great idea on reusing the water. Also remember to clean out the water collection area with a little bleach now and then.
Choosing Best Flooring for a Kitchen?
I would go with real wood or a laminate wood material. It depends on your budget, as real wood is often a little more.
A List of Yard and Garden Hazards for Pets
There also are many plants that are poisonous to pets, such as hydrangea (harmful to cats, anyway). Heres one list: http://www.cfa.org/articles/plants.html
Patching a Lawn?
Weve used those bags of grass and recycled newspaper that are great for filling in, but they can get pricey. This wont help you this year, but is there a way to build a dog run so that they have a place to go without ruining the grass?
Planting My First Garden?
It depends on what you want to grow, flowers and shrubs versus vegetables. I always recommend drawing it out on paper after measuring things so you get it to scale. Use graph paper and a pencil, as youll erase a lot as you go. Find a few landscaping books at...
Tips For Photographing Your Garden In Winter
Great ideas. It also helps to photograph so you know how to add additional winter interest for next year. Im ready to trim back a few things but its still 35 degrees here, so I may have to wait.
Encouraging Birds to Nest in Your Yard?
Try shrubs that go through season changes and get berries in the fall. We use a varied bird seed routine to get cardinals and other birds to come by. One thing to worry about is the squirrel, as it will eat any bird seed that falls to the ground!
Less Costly Landscaping
One way to reduce your mulch cost is to save those fall leaves in a pile and then once they have decomposed, use them as leaf mulch. Saves on the fall chore of bagging them or hauling them to the curb.
Paint Color Advice to Coordinate with Mahogany Woodwork?
We have mahogany/walnut stained trim and warm earth tone colors on the walls - sage, desert tan. I say go medium to light on the walls so the trim stands out.
Painting Kitchen with Red Cabinets and Black and White Floor?
Or, try a carmel or creamy gold color. Also look at faux finishing to add some pop. http://www.oldhouseweb.com/architecture-and-design/decorative-painting.shtml
Decorating with Antique French Doors?
Is there anywhere to actually install them? Between a dining room and living room, for example.
Cabinet and Countertop Advice for Kitchen?
Youve got a real neutral paint color so you could almost go anywhere with it. Perhaps a sage or cranberry (if you want bold color) or a warm, honey on the cabinets. Have you considered painting the cabinets? Heres one link that might help: http://www.oldhouseweb...
Cabinet Color to Coordinate with Butterscotch Oak Floor?
You could really go with any color. I would look at the countertop and any tile too and coordinate it all. Try a warm light brown or add some contrast with a subtle burgungy.
Painting Kitchen with Sapphire Blue Counters?
I like desert tan by Benjamin Moore. Its actually more yellow/golden than tan, depending on the light in the room. Another option is to go with a blue that is a few shaded lighter than your countertops, depending on how much blue you want, though.
Seal Your Home Against Money Leaks
Great tips, but one word of caution when using that Great Stuff spray stuff. It is hard to control and hard to get rid of, so make sure you really want it there.
Kitchen With White Tile?
I would pick up the sage on the countertop or go with a tan or brown granite to blend with the tan. I think you need a little bit of color to offset all that white.
Paint and Carpet Color Ideas?
I would go the sage route. I wouldnt do blue carpet, as it is too dark and might look dated.
Choosing a New Kitchen Sink?
A lot depends on the style you want. Cast iron is better in an old house where youre trying to keep the charm, but it does stain. If youre going with stainless appliances, it is nice to have the sink match. If you go stainless, get a good quality one and it...
Bring Warmth to a Winter Garden With Lights
Great ideas. One thought, though. Ive tried solar lights and they just dont give out much light. Probably because its winter in the Midwest and there isnt much sun.
Painting Kitchen with Tan Tile and Brown Cabinets?
You could go almost anywhere, from a sage, which is pretty neutral to a rust or golden tan/yellow. Are you planning to keep the cabinets brown? One thought is to paint them white or add paint and a glaze. Will give it an updated look. http://www.oldhouseweb...
Bringing Style to Out of Style Furniture
Ive also covered a few tables with nice fabric and let it hang down almost to the floor. Hides a multitude of sins!
Bringing Style to Out of Style Furniture
Just found this cool link on how to stain or lacquer wood-- might have to try the dining room table. http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/staining-and-laquering-woodwork.shtml
Kitchen Cabinet Color to Coordinate With Oak Floor?
Any color will go with oak floors, so think about whether you want a rich cherry or a light maple or something inbetween. Check out online sites or go walk through kitchen displays in the stores. It really helps to see it in person. Also have to think about...
Brightening Up a Kitchen Without Painting?
Can you talk to your landlord about things you can do that will make the place more marketable once you leave? I would go for painting the cabinets, but I see your point. If the landlord would allow it, it would be the biggest bang for the buck. Heres more...
Pull the Plug on Electrical Costs
Great ideas, but weve tried those new light bulbs that are supposed to last longer and be more efficient and they dont last any longer than traditional bulbs. Plus, they are about twice or three times the price. What gives?
10 Ways Gardeners Can Stay Busy in Winter
I am happy to have a break, as last year was a busy gardening year. Another idea is to make a schedule (if you dont have one already) of what needs to be pruned, fertilized, cut back, etc. and when to do it. Heres good info on pruning http://www.oldhouseweb...
Colors Ideas for a Grey and Burgundy Living Room?
A gold or creamy tan, depending on which tone works.
Stopping Drafts In Your Home
We did something similar to various windows and then in our sunroom I made drapes out of heavy fabric (luckily I had the fabric, as that can get costly...or look for close out sales), plus one layer of an insulating lining and then the regular lining. Makes...
Unclogging a Shower Drain?
Dont do Drano, as it can harm the pipes. I think Ill try the Dawn detergent route.
Painting Each Room a Different Color - Advice?
I think its good to use no more than two or three colors in a house, but you can use varying shades. So, use your yellow in a few places, but go one shade up or one shade down here and there. I also think it helps to draw it out on paper and look at how the...
Refinishing a Bathtub?
Weve had our reglazed, but by a professional. Its not a DIY project, as there are lots of chemicals involved. Its only about $350, though, so compared to buying a new one and having it installed, its a breeze.
Toning Down a Bright Paint Color?
I like the glaze idea, but test it on a small section first, perhaps an area that will be covered by a sofa or something. Otherwise, prime and paint.
Painting Kitchen with Golden Oak Cabinets and Beige Countertops?
Since the cabinets and countertop are neutral, I would go with a bolder color for the walls and/or floor. Perhaps sage for the walls and a cherry wood for the floor? Or, could do cranberry for the walls if youre that bold.
Dull Hardwood Floors?
There really isnt a product made that will remove the dullness. Vinegar will actually dry out the floors, so it may look a little better for awhile, its not good long term. Perhaps a few inexpensive area rugs would help until you can refinish.
10 Ways to Use Extra Candy Canes
One more variation. Melt chocolate to form the bottom of a cupcake baking insert, put vanilla ice cream in the cupcake area and then sprinkle on top.
Curtains to Coordinate With Navy Furniture?
I would use a gold, cream or white, depending on your walls colors, etc. Its always nice to pull out a color in a throw rug, too.
Recycle Comforter as an Insulating Curtain
Great idea. Dont throw away those old comforters, pillows, fabric remnants, etc.
Repairing a Split in Wood Before Staining?
Is it too small for a narrow filler piece? May not look great, but it might hold together better than sawdust and glue.
Always Run Water When Using Garbage Disposal
I also learned not to put everything down the disposal. Avoid meat, egg shells and other things that are hard to grind and can cause problems.
Taking Care Of "Street" Trees
Great points, I think we tend to overlook these trees, but they play a big role in the neighborhood.
Make Your Own Thermal Drapes
Great timing, as Im in the middle of making 6 panels with a thermal lining and then another one inside. I bought the lining at the fabric store, but it was on sale, so it wasnt too bad. I have three hung so far, as our sun room is freezing and it has boosted...
Old World "Stucco" Walls
Looks great. Maybe try it on one wall and that way it wont take as long, but youll still get the nice look.
Painting Kitchen With Grey/Black Counters?
You could do a shade of grey that is one or two shaded lighter or darker than the countertop, depending on the intensity you want. Cranberry also works well, but can be dark. Shades of cream, wheat or desert tan also could work, depending on the grey. Heres...
Painting Bathroom With Black Fixtures?
I would go with a rich golden tan, such as Benjamin Moores desert tan (which actually has some gold in it depending on the light). Try their color visualizer: http://www.benjaminmoore.com
Holiday Gift Ideas for Every Gardener
A great gift for many gardeners is a book or web site that can expose them to something they havent tried before. We got into flowers and bushes that attract butterflies this summer. One year we tried some fragrant plantings. Helps spice up the gardening season...
Mark Locations on Fuse for Breaker Box
Great idea. We had all our wiring redone and the electricians said they would mark the box and then forgot. Luckily I remembered and wouldnt let them leave until they did it!
Choosing a Bedspread Color with Maroon Walls?
I think you need to lighten it up since you have the black in there. Id go for white or a cream, depending on which tone fit.
Refinishing Laminate Countertops?
You cant really refinish it, as you would with wood, but you can paint it. Heres a link that talks about it, although Im not so sure its as easy as they say! http://www.hgtv.com/home-improvement/painting-your-countertops-for-a-new-look/index.html
Cabinet Hardware Advice?
Any metal finish would work with the brown. I would use something that blends with any wall tile or draperies or other accent pieces. If your appliances are stainless steel, go with brushed chrome, for example. Just stay away from the oil rubbed bronze, which...
Refinishing Laminate Cabinets?
This is a very affordable project, but you need to have the time to devote to it. Heres a link that can help: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/painting-kitchen-cabinets.shtml
Landscaping Around a Stone Patio?
I like to curve flower beds around a patio so it looks as if the patio has evolved with the plants. It looks more natural. Dont use straight lines. If the patio is rectangular, carve out oblong, curved beds around the corners.
Decorating A Pink Bathroom?
I think you just have to roll with the fact that its pink and perhaps do a soft pink around it for the walls, towels, accents. The other option is to really play up the gray.
Painting Cabinets with Grey and Whited Speckled Countertops and Yellow Walls?
I think you could go with a creamish yellow that was a few shades lighter than the walls or with white, perhaps with a glaze on top to make it a little different. Heres info on doing the painting. http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/painting-kitchen-cabinets...
Preparing Your Trees for Winter
The watering thing is big. I always water until around Thanksgiving, when it gets too cold here in Chicago. Ive also started adding compost to the soil before I mulch, so it breaks down over the winter. Heres a good link on a similar vein: http://www.oldhouseweb...
Removing Concrete?
Try a concrete contractor and see if they will do the work while they are in the area doing a bigger job. This will save you some money. We did this recently with an old garage pad. Not cheap, but we saved a few hundred. The other thought is that you have to...
Finding a Contractor?
And always get the estimate in writing with a stipulation that there are no extra charges unless you agree to them in writing first. Also, try out a new contractor on a small project first so you see how the relationship goes.
Winterizing an Old House?
You really need to go around the house and make a list of all the problem areas. (Were in year three of ours and still fixing here and there!). Insulation should be first, then sealing drafts--check the bottom of doors, too, as you can buy sweeps that block...
Revitalize Your Flowering Shrubs Through Pruning
Great tips. Just be careful to prune at the right time. We lost some buds on one bush because they had already formed for the next year when we pruned.
Painting Bathroom Faucets?
Im just not sure if the paint will withstand the constant supply of water, but its worth a try. Or, ask at a paint store.
Controlling Rabbits In The Garden
We had some eating our arborvitae last winter, so its off to build a fence this weekend. Thanks for the tips.
Transforming Old Formica Countertops?
Ive never tried it, but heres one link I found for a bathroom countertop. Would be same concept for kitchen. http://oursuburbancottage.blogspot.com/2009/04/yes-you-can-paint-those-ugly-laminate.html
How to Overseed Your Lawn
I dont think you can put too much seed on it. The birds end up eating some and some gets blown around despite using peat moss on top. And, grass seed is pretty inexpensive compared with sod.
Finding Inexpensive Flooring?
You can also paint the floor in an artsy pattern. Try this: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/stories/Detailed/12173.shtml And, dont forget to try regular flooring stores. Most are hurting for business and might sell you overstock or slightly imperfect flooring for...
Getting Ready for Winter
Great list. Im making drapes now for our drafty sunroom; hope to have them done by Thanksgiving. Will have to get the car emergency kit ready now.
Deer and Rabbit Deterrent
This beats running outside of the house and yelling at the rabbits to leave!
Drainage for a Sloping Vegetable Garden?
I think bricks or cement blocks would be fine. Whatever keeps the dirt from moving, as I know this is a paint to replace it every spring. Heres more on vegetable beds: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/gardening/bigger-and-better-vegetables.shtml
Window Locks for Home Safety
Another good deterent is to have good outdoor lighting on motion detectors and (we got this tip from our local police dept.) also change your habits so they cant see a pattern. Leave a light on in the den one night and then in the kitchen the next. Park in...
Hibiscus Losing Leaves?
Wow. I didnt know you could leave them all winter without watering. Will this work with other tender perennials that are not winter hardy?
Making Storm Windows for a Porch?
Also see if you can add insulation anywhere in the walls, as this will help keep out the cold too.
Winterizing a Screened Porch?
Do you mean winterize and turn it into an enclosed porch? If so, it depends on how sturdy the structure is. You might need new windows that dont leak, for example. Youll need a heating source. You also need insulation in the walls and ceiling and perhaps the...
Preparing for the First Frost
I still have plants to get into the ground and they are calling for near frost this weekend. Help!
Paint Advice with Maple Cabinets, Light Hardwood, and Black Granite Counters?
I love sage. Its warm and adds color, but isnt too harsh. Try this site with a color visualizer to help you see how it will look. http://www.benjaminmoore.com
Painting Metal Cabinets?
I would check at a paint store about what to use to sand them with, as youll need to knock off the texture. Then youll need a good metal primer. This goes into general cabinet painting, but might help with the various steps. http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to...
New Gardeners Should Adopt a Guilt-Free Philosophy
Good points. I think its important to look at the overall improvements you make. How much better the yard looks today versus last year, etc. Sometimes we get too caught up in each plant and forget the overall view.
Staining Floors to Coordinate With Knotty Pine Walls?
I would go a little darker so you distinguish one from the other. Use the same type of finish, though, probably a satin. Dont want any gloss if its a rustic look you want.
Garden Safety Tips
Great tips, especially the part about following the sun so you can work in the shade. Im also big on drawing things out on paper so you can do it right the first time and avoid unnecessary transplanting. Heres more on planning a garden: http://www.oldhouseweb...
What Color Should I Paint My Kitchen?
I also like the mocha/brown theme. Would it work to do one wall in a deeper shade of the color -- its hard to tell from the picture, but that could help you highlight one area. Enjoy all that great space!
Covering Windows With Plastic to Reduce Heating Bills?
Weve also done just a thick plastic you buy in rolls at Home Depot. They cost a few dollars per window and it is definitely worth it in the added comfort. We have a few old windows we are not ready to replace yet, so we cover them and it makes a huge difference...
Painting Clay Pots
Its the lacquer or poly that really makes it. Ive done a few without that protection and the paint just wears off.
Painting Kitchen With Pink and Grey Countertops?
I would try gray that is a few shades lighter than the counter or tile so it blends but doesnt stand out too much. I love the idea of painting the cabinets. It will make a big difference. Here are some tips on that: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice...
Kitchen Flooring Ideas?
How about cherry wood, either engineered or solid wood? Heres a good primer on selecting floors. http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/the-right-wood.shtml
Adding Color to My Kitchen Walls?
I like the yellow and blue theme or even a tan/mustard/taupe, depending what blends.
Create a Colorful Garden
I love color, roses, hydrangea, even butterfly bushes. How about also adding some fragrance, particularly if its in a spot that people walk by frequently. Heres a good link on that: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/gardening/Detailed/816.shtml
Considering a Copper Kitchen Sink?
It does look cool, but you have to be prepared for the aging process. Thats what gives it the beauty, but it wont look the same, just so you are aware.
Installing Baseboard Heaters?
The heating manufacturer also should be able to tell you. Try their website or 800 number.
Budget Kitchen Remodel
Wow! Looks great and what an accomplishment to know you did most of it yourself.
Oak Cabinets With Hardwood Flooring?
I also like cranberry or a version of rust with those colors. One rule Ive learned is that you should be able to carry one item - a pillow or rug, for example - throughout any room and it should blend in. That way you know you have a cohesive color scheme.
Color Advice for Exterior Light Fixtures?
It looks more cohesive if you match the fixtures with your door hardware, but as long as all the fixtures match and they blend with the door handles youre fine.
Training Vines To Climb Arbors And Pergolas
Great tips. Ive just started with clematis and find that they have a mind of their own in terms of where they want to climb, but you can gently nudge them in one direction or another. The support is key, though, of large portions will hang down and you wont...
Prepare for School the Night Before
We do this most of the time and it really does help, particularly the clothes part because then youll find out you need to wash something or have run out of socks, etc.
Economy Garden Border Stones From Concrete
Great idea. It also keeps all that concrete out of the landfills!
Demolishing an Old House?
Yes, first sell what scrap you can. Then, there are companies that will take away the rest for a fee (demolition). Obviously, the more you get rid of the lower their fee will be. Youll need a demolition permit and make sure they spray water on it as they are...
Staining Wood Furniture?
I think youll have better luck sanding down to bare wood so you know youve gotten all of it off.
The Boys Club (Cats)
Very cute. Wish I could have more, but our two cats wont let any others in the door!
Color Advice for a Tile Backsplash?
How about going with a pattern that has burgundy or sienna (which ever blends better) and just a touch of the cream to pull it all together. I think youve got enough cream/honey, but if you have it as a background in the tile it will pull it together.
Preventative Medicine For Your Vegetable Garden
Great advice. Im just getting into the whole vegetable garden concept and there is a learning curve! One big lesson is to not be afraid of moving things around to stake them, as they will thrive more for the effort. Heres more fun on vegetable gardens. http...
Overwintering Geraniums?
I tried it once in our basement, but then grew tired of going down there to water. One word of caution if you have cats. Geraniums and many other outdoor plants are poisonous. Thats why I cant keep ours inside except in the basement, where we lock them out...
Refacing Cabinets?
I have toyed with this idea, but it just seems like so much work. Also, we have raised panels, so I think adding the veneer would get tricky with the varying grooves. What about repainting them? Still lots of work, but it gives you more room for error without...
Climbing Rose Advice?
Agree with other posts, but also consider a dose of Rose tone fertilizer right about now. And consider getting a soil test to make sure theres nothing youre missing in the soil. Ive heard that keeping the can horizontal will help you get lots of nice flowers...
Tips For Making Weeding Easier
Great tips -- I didnt think about deadheading so they wont spread their weediness around! Heres more on weeding: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/gardening/weeds.shtml
Painting Pressboard Cabinets?
Im not sure this will hold up for very long, given the cabinets youre starting with. Is there a way to add a wood veneer on top of the cabinets? More work, but it would last longer.
Color Advice for a Sage Kitchen?
Try a cranberry or burgundy or a desert tan, beige in the same tone. Here is a good color finder site. It shows colors of wall and trim so you get an idea of how color look together: http://www.benjaminmoore.com
Painting Cabinets to Make Kitchen Look Bigger?
I would go with an antique off white or a cream to brighten it up. Just make sure you sand first and use a good primer so the paint adheres well. Heres more on that: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/painting-kitchen-cabinets.shtml
Putting a Laminate Countertop Over Existing Countertop?
You can, but you have to be careful that the existing is smooth or the new countertop wont adhere. Another alternative is painting the old one.
Granite Countertops to Coordinate With Oak Cabinets?
Depending on how much contrast you want, there is a nice brown and tan pattern that would go well. If you want contrast and more drama, try black speckled. This site has some cool images to go through: http://www.buschegranite.com/granite_countertop_pictures...
Use Pot Holders Under Plants to Protect Furniture
Great idea. Save the furniture from that horrible ring from the bottom of the pot.
Reuse Plastic Cupcake Trays to Start Seeds
Im doing this, but with plastic cups inside each. I made holes in the bottoms for drainage. Works great!
Saving Your Garden from Torrential Rain
Great story. I did something similar when we had about 2 inches or rain standing in our garden. Dug up a bunch of newly planted ground cover and moved it to higher ground. Its doing fine now!
Reuse Plastic Cupcake Trays to Start Seeds
Great idea. I like the bigger size (versus egg cartons) because the seeds are easier to work with.
Temporary Wall Covering While Remodeling?
What about an inexpensive fabric drape? You dont have to sew it, but could just hang it from a rod on the wall.
Mandela Vine Has No Flowers?
It may not be warm enough yet. Whats your weather like there? Also try some fertilizer, like Flowertone, that focuses on flowering.
Painting Cabinets to Coordinate with "Tomato" Walls?
I also vote for a cream or beige, whichever blends. Also, before painting take the cabinets off the wall, as it will be easier to get to all the odd places. More on painting: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/painting-kitchen-cabinets.shtml
Paint Color Advise With Brick Wall?
Try a rust color if you want to pull out the color of the brick or perhaps a warm yellow or sage.
Create Display Shelves Above Windows
I think this is a great idea if you have decorative things to store that you dont need to get to-- books, etc. Im all for using all that vertical space.
Propagating Hydrangeas
I just tried this and have about 10 cutting that are about 10 days old. Cant wait to see if some make it! Im also trying it with climbing roses. Well see. Heres the advice I used, but Im doing mine inside in cups. http://www.oldhouseweb.com/gardening/roses...
Set Up a Kid Friendly Guest Room
What a great idea. I might also add comfortable chairs for reading books, or a table for doing artwork, depending on her style.
Enclosing an Outdoor Patio?
All the home improvement stores are selling those portable canopies, although some have to be installed into the ground. If you want to use your metal canopy, how about sheer drapes that can be pulled closed as needed. The main issue is the weather, however...
Starting A Self-Sowing Garden
We have had great luck with forget me nots self seeding, so much so that weve had to divide off sections and give them to other people. Its important to plan out where all your flowers will go and how the colors coordinate, so Im not sure I could do the random...
