Curtain Color Advice?
I think a darkish green would look well and not be too in yer face as we say over here! Sort of classic and stylish at the same time.
Making Chicken and Noodles for 20 People?
It would be simple to estimate this way: how much chicken would you expect as a single serving? how much broth? Say youd eat about 6oz, then 20 people would be expected to eat about 8lbs. Allow a little extra for big appetites - 2lbs extra, so 10lbs. Youll...
Amana Washer Leaking from Underneath?
A lot of water coming out and the hoses are OK sounds ominous. Put some newspaper under the machine to find the exact starting point of the leak. If it was a hole in the drum you would notice the level of water dropping in the tub. Then time for a new machine...
Riding Mower Won't Start?
Sounds like a fuel problem, perhaps sediment has gathered round the outlet during storage. Add some fuel to the tank, and try again. If it isnt that, try boosting the fuel-air mix by using what we over here call the choke. It makes ignition easier, but remember...
Receiving Social Security Survivor Benefits?
If you find it difficult to get there, look for a telephone number on any of your communications. Or you could write a letter. Social Security has many rules and regulations, and are very experienced in applying them. I hope they are helpful to you, and all...
Powdered Metal Stains on Leather Jacket?
This is a tough one. I would brush it with a fine brush, then rinse with clear water. Then I would cycle through the various stain removers which do not harm leather. Talc or chalk might bond with the powdered metal and remove some of it. A light acid - dilute...
Making Chocolate Bars with Wilton Candy Melts?
Making chocolate is not easy , but if you want to have a go, here is a link: http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-Chocolate-From-Scratch/
Herbs and Supplements to Heal a Wound?
Ive heard that honey helps in just such cases. I wouldnt use stinging oils like teatree on an open ulcer, you want something to help the tissues regrow. Honey is so sweet it doesnt carry bacteria; it forms a healing layer on top so the skin underneath can reform...
Treating an Ulcer with Tea Bags?
The only mention of teabags I can find in healing ulcers is maggot tea-bags, under professional supervision only. I think you might risk infecting your ulcer with used teabags. Honey has often been recommended; it wont introduce bacteria and provides a second...
Value of Cathay Native American Dolls?
No, but I can give you a link to find out more about these attractive dolls. http://nmai.si.edu/sites/1/files/pdf/education/SiYC_Dolls.pdf As to value, there would be no fixed price. Your best bet is to keep an eye on the sales of similar dolls, say eBay or...
Using Pine Limbs in Crafts?
Pine is often used in crafts, so there really cant be too much of a problem. Working with seasoned wood will avoid the sap problem. there are lots of uses for pine. Check out https://survivalsherpa.wordpress.com/2014/09/26/top-13-uses-for-pine-trees-in-woodcraft...
Removing Mold on Red Christmas Table Runner?
Sometimes mould just wont go away, especially if the runner has been stored since last Christmas. And its red, the colour that bleeds most readily. If its proved colourfast in the wash already, Id go straight to the tips above, applying bleach solution with...
Save on Kitchen Paper
We do have Poundstores here, similar to the Dollar stores. Ill look out for this deal! I wait until the fat hardens and scrape it out with a rubber spatula. If Im being extra active, Ill use it to make bird cake with!
Removing Mold on Stored Christmas Decorations?
Wash in a weak solution of bleach, or hydrogen peroxide if they are coloured. Perhaps you need a new storage box!
Name Ideas For A Handmade Jewelry and Decor Shop?
I would go for something original that stands out from the rest, like Sparkle and Glow When online, you have no large shopfront to catch the eye and the imagination, you must do it with words. If it is catchy it will stay in the mind.
Getting Dyed Hair Back to Normal?
It sounds as if youll just have to wait till natural regrowth appears. You do risk damaging the hair structure permanently if you continue to colour like this. Heres some advice from experts http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4699230_long-wait-re_dye-hair.html
Accessories to Coordinate With Orange and Grey?
I would go for curtains in a white/chocolate print, and cushions in solid colours of dark leaf green and chocolate. Pictures of trees, especially autumn ones, would keep the restful theme of light grey walls, and echo the curtains.
A Section of Lights Are Out on Pre-lit Tree?
You could go to the trouble of cutting out the dud section and rewiring the working sections together. It would obviously shorten the string of lights. Perhaps the manufacturer can help, since its obviously faulty. But Christmas lights are not designed for...
Lights Not Working in Two Rooms?
With just two areas involved, its not likely to be on a separate circuit. And Id worry about the fault not throwing a fuse or a trip. Sounds as if something which ought to be connected isnt. Id strongly advise you to call an electrician.
What Breed Is My Dog?
He definitely looks like a pitbull, and he is super-cute asleep! Does it matter very much to you? Even if he is a cross he is more pitbull than anything else. They have an undeserved reputation for aggression. It all depends on how they are brought up. I have...
Name Ideas For A Handmade Jewelry and Decor Shop?
I think Sparkle and Glow is attention-catching and reflects the nature of your business well, when you dont have a shop-front.
Keeping Photos from Sticking Together?
I would give them a quick rub with a duster slightly wet with a dab of silicone polish. Very little should do the trick, and give them a repellent surface.
Keeping Craft Bows From Getting Flat?
Youd probably need to store them individually to prevent flatness. Time-consuming, but Id attach them in rows to a short Velcro strip, maybe using a Velcro dot on the back if they dont stick well. Line them down the strip, getting as many as possible onto each...
14th Birthday Parties Ideas?
Nice to celebrate with all your friends, separately really doesnt matter. With these three friends you could have an activity theme, doing something you all like together. It might be a make-up party, or a hike together, a girls day out at the mall with birthday...
IBM Selectric Typewriter Not Working?
Sometimes you can get very helpful advice from the original manufacturers if they are still about. Id check to see if there are other extant makers of electrical typewriters. E-Bay might provide some leads. Otherwise you could find an electrician who works...
Maytag Washer Doesn't Start?
You can go online to find a book which will help you with domestic machine repairs. Amazon has several https://www.amazon.co.uk/Washing-Machine-Manual-Plumbing-Maintenance/dp/1844253481 Perhaps another thrifty answer would be to barter for the electricians...
Clean Clothes Smell Bad When Wet?
Are you using a hot enough temperature? Bacteria are only destroyed by a temperature of at least 50C. I would try hotter washes and a biological detergent as a first line of defence.
Stretching Vinyl Sneakers?
You could try warming them. Vinyl becomes much more flexible when lightly heated. Then stuff them with old T-shirts and keep them lightly heated, say near a radiator for a few days
Speech for Receiving an Award?
Always use your own words. Keep it short and light-hearted. Thank them for the award and perhaps mention the daily work the school does throughout the year, through ups and downs, and say they also deserve an award!
Gas Burner Ignition Only Has Yellow Flame?
Before you rush to call in an expensive expert, perhaps check that the total unit is clean. A thorough clean of the burners can sometimes remedy this.
13 Birthday Party Ideas?
Wow!! 13 is a difficult age, veering between sophistication and childhood. Both girls and boys, I take it? They could make some party food if you find out in advance what their likes are. Theres an instant ice-cream made from frozen bananas, vanilla and cocoa...
17th Birthday Ideas?
Instead of the hotel and hall, think fun. Have your guests come in formal or fancy dress, give them small cameras, and take them bowling and at least one other activity, the more the better. Have a competition to see who can come up with the prettiest/wackiest...
Repairing Porous Lava Rock Jewelry?
Try some gel epoxy , with the addition of some white acrylic paint to disguise the crack. Do a few trial runs on some other object to see how the paint matches up.
Which Cat Litter Is Best?
Yes, I agree with the other answers. The only problem I found that clay does get a bit dusty and gets in the cats eyes. Also the newspaper at the bottom does get clawed a lot by our vigorous cat! Thats why I dont put down a layer of baking soda on the bottom...
Fundraising Ideas for Dance Trip?
Could your daughter dance at various venues to help with subscriptions? Just make it clear it is a fund-raising venture. Perhaps senior citizens centres, or even busking! I hope she is successful.
Sewing Machine Starts Running When Turned On?
Foot pedal jammed? Unscrew and check. If it is not that, then check you havent a jammed switch. Look especially at the switch which you can set for the machine to go at a steady rate. If they seem to be OK, then the fault is probably electronic and needs a...
Sharing Living Expenses?
You need out. There is no way this will ever be settled by these people. Cut your losses and go now before you are pay more for a house that you will never have a share in. Sorry, I cant wrap it up in nice words - this is not an open honest sharing man, and...
Having an Ex-spouse Over for Thanksgiving?
I think your daughter was thoughtless expecting to accompany an invited and welcome guest when she wasnt invited, not to mention bringing along someone who was less than welcome! Perhaps it is coming to the time where she should take over the responsibilities...
House Training an Adult Dog?
Get him used to a clicker and treat immediately after he has performed. Then assign the spot near your home that you want to be used in the winter and take him there. Use the clicker until he catches on this is where he is expected to do his business. Dont...
What Breed Is My Puppy?
Lovely little dog! She has a look of a Chihuahua, but that black/tan colour is almost universal. Perhaps your vet could tell you. If she is cross-bred, rejoice. They tend to have fewer health problems.
Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge?
Heres another recipe; perhaps the boiling will make the ingredients meld better. http://allrecipes.com/recipe/9551/chocolate-peanut-butter-fudge/
Inexpensive Family Christmas Gift Ideas?
These are some great ideas already posted, but might I suggest you keep the memory ones for the adults? Old photos in a Christmas card might really please them. But for kids - oldest at six years - you cant begin to enter the battle of high-tech plastic and...
Making Organic Fertilizer?
As well as all these great tips on compost making, you can very easily make a liquid feed for all your plants in the spring and summer. Wearing gloves, cut a large bunch of nettles - enough to fill a large plastic bag. Cut holes in the bag and steep it in a...
Sweet Sixteen Party Ideas?
Twenty people is a lot, especially on a sixteen-year-olds budget! Could you ask your friends to share expenses , a Dutch treat where they pay their own way? If you choose an activity like paint-balling (only a suggestion!) and are bringing a party of about...
Too Much Pepper in Turkey Soup?
If you can drain off the liquid, perhaps replace half or more of it with fresh turkey broth. Otherwise I agree with the earlier posters: either cream or potatoes.
Painful Sore on Gum?
Its probably a small mouth ulcer, very common, painful and harmless. Try rinsing the mouth with a solution of Vit.C and include plenty of fresh food, fruit and vegetables in the diet. Sometimes they are a sign of reaction to some specific food and alertness...
Using Dawn in the Dishwasher?
I think you are asking if the Dawn will go further in the dishwasher, since you have only a small amount? I did this once for a few days, and noticed no ill effects, except for the high sudsing. A little vinegar in the bottom of the dishwasher would help with...
Reusing Plastic Containers?
Pills or sweeteners for carrying in your purse or in the car; cake decorations in the kitchen; tiny parts for model-making; stickers for use on charts or calendars; stamps; small ribbons, decorations in the sewing room; dog treats on the go; an eraser; bobby...
Cleaning a Stained Toilet Bowl?
Chlorine bleach is the answer to a heavily stained bathroom. Pour into toilet bowl and leave overnight if possible, but no longer. If it needs another go, flush the loo and try again. Wet kitchen paper with bleach and leave the wet paper adhering to stains...
Cleaning and Organizing Business Name?
The Handy Helper sounds fine; why not add Dandy Handy Helper? Also there was once a similar organisation called Universal Aunts - maybe something with Aunt in the title. Wish there was someone like you in my neighbourhood! Im sure youll be successful , and...
Name Ideas for Babysitting Service?
What about Aunt.... followed by your name? Sounds friendly, safe and helpful. Maybe a tad old-fashioned, but that might be a plus. Good luck anyhow!
Sticky Residue on Varnished Wood Table?
I would try oil to remove this stickiness. It wont scrape or damage the wood, but would take lots pf patient rubbing. Slightly heated it might do better. I have a pine table which had sellotape all along one side, and it worked on that to a degree. Otherwise...
Freezing Brussels Sprouts?
Frozen Brussels sprouts will be mushy as the freezing breaks down the cell structure. One way round this is to slice your sprouts up very finely, and then freeze them. When you come to cook them they can be sautéed at a high temperature in a little butter, and...
Cleaning Food Stain and Odor in Car?
If you live somewhere it is safe to leave your car doors open, then that will help. Smells build up in confined spaces. The vinegar in the sweet and sour sauce is probably lingering, so a wash or several washes with washing-up liquid and hot water should help...
Cleaning a Burnt Orgreenic Ceramic Skillet?
You dont say whether it is on the inside or the outside, and if it is burnt on food residue or scorch marks. Oven cleaner or ammonia very lightly applied and quickly wiped off would deal with the outside; cleaning the inside is really simple. Just add baking...
Getting Rid of Bleach Smell on Walls?
Wash again with a solution of baking soda in water. Leave bowls of vinegar around the room. If you have a fan put that on high with the doors and windows open. Dont use vinegar with bleach as it may form chlorine gas, though in your situation it seems unlikely...
Brother Sewing Machine Manual?
Contact the firm. Sometimes they can be very helpful in replacing manuals. Youd need to go online to discover your nearest Brother firm.
Living Room Paint and Accessories Colour Advice?
You will need light walls or your room (which sounds lovely) will be dark. A very light robins egg blue might suit. I would go for a print for the curtains to draw together the different colours you will be using. Leaf green for cushions; a deep blue oriental...
Living Room Paint Color Advice?
A light blue/green paint might pull everything together, but it would need careful choice. An oriental type carpet in red, blue and green would really match everything else.
Flashing Dashboard Lights?
It may be that some part of the electronic system is faulty and this triggers off a wholesale warning. This happened to us when a particulate filter clogged up and did not respond to high rev driving to clear it. One by one the warning lights came on, and did...
Preventing Streaks When Cleaning Tile Floor?
Im afraid the streaks are caused by insufficient rinsing, and possibly using too much cleaning agent. Try cutting down on the cleaner you use, and add vinegar to the rinse water. You may have to use several mop buckets of water to rinse your floor.
Reusing Disposable Hair Nets
I will wear a hair-net too when I start baking bread for sale. Or anything for sale for that matter. For us at home - well, I reckon a hair band is enough.
Removing Mud Stains from Dried Clothing?
An enzyme detergent might be the answer. Soak the hoodie in a strong solution, leaving overnight. Rinse well and check. Another treatment would be oxygen bleach powder which will not affect the colour.
Decorate Hats with Earrings or Pins
Brilliant idea, thanks, Judy! Good thing to look out for in charity shops too.
Removing Bleach Smell from a Mattress?
Do not wet the mattress. Apply a coating of baking soda and leave for as long as you can before brushing off. You can add some strong-smelling herb like rosemary or lavender to the baking soda.
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Great idea! If you are following a low-carb diet, you could leave out the spaghetti.
Clothing for Shoulder Surgery and Other Tips
Well thought-through and extremely helpful tips. But how did you get so much done before surgery - werent you in pain then? Also husbands neednt be catered for quite so much - they CAN learn to cook and not be so helpless!
Mexican Black Beans
I couldnt eat this if it was all beans, but I think half beans and half vegetable would make it easier on the digestion.
Remedy for Pain from New Dentures?
You need to check with the dentist to see if you have an infection in your lower gums. They should not be as painful as this. While you are there you can ask him/her to check the fit. There are some wonderful pain relief solutions here; lets hope that soon...
Fresh Mushroom Soup
Sounds lovely. Id have to use something other than oatmeal though. Maybe rice flour?
Adjusting to a New Life
I chop up vegetables into soup and stew packs, and freeze them. While I wouldnt like to be alone, it must be also very noticeable on the routine things like cooking and cleaning. Not much of a silver lining, perhaps, but one of the easier steps in adjusting...
Organizing Plastic Storage Containers?
Try double use - store jars, small packets and such like in some of these boxes. Then as well as the unused ones you store (they can be very few ) you always have an emergency supply at hand. Your cupboard or fridge items can either do without, or use a plastic...
Storing Tea Light Candles?
http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-Freezing-Candles-Is-A-Bad-Idea&id=6888043 This applies to large candles, you might not worry if your tealights are cracked since they are in a container. Try one and see.
Being Healthy is Frugal
Just how many hours are there in a week? This tip recommends exercising for 150 hours a week!
Storing Light Bulbs?
Keep a supply of one of each bulb you use in a closet at or near your meter box. Store the rest in boxes according to type inside a larger box.
Organizing a Small Apartment?
Double use is the answer - have everything perform two functions. Use hidden spaces: underneath a drop-leaf table, beneath the bed, even in the fridge or under your mattress. Kitchen equipment and clothing minimal. I have very little summer/winter clothing...
Home Remedy to Help Get to Sleep?
Just as with babies, get yourself into a routine! Calming bath, milky drink, nice book........it wont always work, but should help long-term. Spray lavender oil on your pillow; it does work. If you are desperate, try taking a couple of paracetamol. This will...
Getting the Most for Your Money
I buy cheap dishwasher tablets, and find they are excellent. I also buy expensive washing-up liquid, because I can dilute it 100% and it is still very effective. This gives me a bargain at 44p for 500ml, cheaper than all other effective liquids.
Porcupine Meatballs
Tccch! Arent porcupines protected? (Someone had to say it ) But the recipe does sound good!
Organizing a Storage Shed?
Your yard sale stuff might go in cardboard boxes stored in an island in the middle of this very large shed for now. The lofts for Christmas decorations and seasonal equipment which could be moved down for use at the right time, while the previous seasons stuff...
Using Expired Yogurt?
I dilute expired yoghurt to use in baking. Milk or water will do. This replaces buttermilk. Also there is a form of cheese using drained yoghurt which I keep meaning to try. Id drain the yoghurt using cheesecloth or a clean ironed fine teatowel - it becomes...
Natural Remedy for Anxiety?
Theres nothing as good as Valium (diazepam) and you can use self-control to prevent it becoming addictive. Or if you buy it online as I do, the cost alone means you wont over-use it.
Suggestions for Getting Along With Relatives?
Try reading this book In Sheeps Clothing available from Amazon. Not all the good advice in the world or therapy either can help when the standpoint you start from is flawed. This book addresses that, and shows how the point of view needs to be changed. Much...
Moving Into a Much Smaller House?
Once you get on top of the move everything will seem a little easier. The jumble and confusion is adding to your depression at the moment. Try flylady.com for a sympathetic been-there help with moving. Or you could buy her book Sink Reflections, it will help...
DIY Apartment Clothes Dryer
Very clever! Would those vacuum storage bags work? They have a dedicated hose inlet screw, but youd have to cut open the bag and it would no longer be useful for its original purpose. I can see the problem with dust, but surely it would use the same amount...
The Year Round Planter
Terrific article which has given me many ideas. Like especially the one about adding branches from the garden and the country. Alyssum self-seeds here ( in Northern Ireland! ) so thats another item to add; marigold seeds I have, so its just the perennials and...
Kids Not Wearing Underwear?
I think you are giving your daughter a lovely free childhood, and probably in more ways than just no pants under shorts! Shell be glad of it all her adult life, and when it comes to raising her own children. Never mind the Mrs Grundys, ask your daughter and...
What Are the Disadvantages of Using Store Brands?
You dont get pretty packaging, and you dont put so much money in the stores tills. Same quality goods for less money, wheres the disadvantage?
Removing a Piece of Glass From Under the Skin?
A very old-fashioned remedy is a bread poultice! When I was little, my mother used these for similar problems. Just crumble some bread, add boiling water, and put it to the injury site, and keep it there till it cools. Perhaps let it cool a little first, you...
How Do I Revive a Stainless Steel Saucepan?
Ive found that all stainless steel including cutlery benefits from a wash in biological detergent. It looks shiny and new for a while, but you always have to do it again. Ive also noticed that since we acquired a dishwasher (£30 at a thrift shop) my saucepans...
Household Uses for Vodka
Vodka! It must be cheap in U.S.A! LOL. I much prefer its traditional use, to make everything happy and blurry and loving and jush goo ole frens wiz evrybuddy.
Buy Large Containers of Yogurt
If you have the time, you could save even more by making your own, its very easy. Heat a litre of milk to blood heat ( dip in a finger to try, it should feel neither warm nor cold) then whip in a tablespoon of bought yoghurt, and stand the container in a very...
Smooth Skin Ideas?
Wash in cold water! It may be brrr! but it works for me. I wash my face and hands in cold water and splash my face well. The longer you rinse, the clearer and smoother the skin. AND it costs nothing!
Making Gray Hair More Vibrant?
Just shampoo and condition. Grey hair goes through lots of stages of greying, and each one is full of interest. In no other colour do you get such depth and varying shades. Enjoy!
My Frugal Life: Surviving After A Loss
This lady has my awe and admiration! She has made her hugely difficult circumstances into a positive way of life for herself and her children, and you can sense that she has tackled the challenge courageously and in the end with relish. Her story will inspire...
Restoring Old Thread?
I tried putting the thread in a pillowcase in the dryer with a little moisture, and it worked! Only the pillowcase opened (memo: use a cotton one ) and there was a birds nest of unravelled thread! I dont mind; Ill be able to use it all somehow. But the results...
Cabbage and Noodles
This sounds like a really good meal! Ill be trying it when I next have cabbage, but I prefer rice to noodles. Excellent for leftovers as well. 5 stars!
One Size Doesn't Always Fit All
How much I agree with you! We dont need to lose individuality in life; there are so many forces telling us what to do and how to do it. Be yourself and satisfy your own wishes in your frugal life!
Disposing of Bacon and Cooking Grease
I pour off unwanted fat into clean coffee jars, and use it to make bird cakes for the bird table. Some nice bacon fat I save for cooking with, and I plan to make firelighters (honestly!) with the rest. My idea is to soak pieces of newspaper in the fat, and...
Buy at Garage Sales and Make Money
We dont have garage sales here - UK - instead we have car-boot sales, where all gather at a site, pay about £5m, and sell their items from their car-boot (trunk). In general, traders here know the value of their goods, but where I think the seller is not well...
My Clothes Dryer Door Won't Stay Shut?
I use the bungee cord idea on my front-loading washing machine. The strange part is that the machine works so much better now! No jumping around or funny sounds, and the spin goes great. Maybe I should set up as a repair-lady?
Poll: Do you sell items on Ebay?
Considering that your eBay listing reaches potentially millions of people, the fees arent so bad. There are also the guarantees against fraud, through PayPal. My tips are to look out for free listing week-ends, and also to add a little to postage costs so that...
Discovery with Crayola Clay and Transfer Foil
Sounds like something I would like to do, but what is transfer foil?
