May 18, 2015 in Idea Corner
For all Chicago Handyman readers experiencing the dreaded Monday blues, check out the InfoGraphic.City’s graphic below to see how some simple home adjustments could improve the mood. Cheers to a happier home, folks!
May 15, 2015 in Idea Corner
Some people dig the modern look. Others love vintage victorian. However, plenty of homeowners seem to have some cowboy(girl) in them and want rustic materials on a budget. The great news is there’s no reason to break the bank to get that barnyard luxury aesthetic. Instead, follow these simple steps from Paper Daisy Design to turn any type of wood into the countryside materials that dreams are made of.
Here’s what’s needed:
Start with the easiest step: distressing the wood. This is where all those inner frustrations of the week can barrel out. Stab and claw at the 1″x4″ boards with nails, hammers, crowbars, anything that would leave a dent or mark. Beat it up until satisfied.
Next, scrape off the straight edges. Make sure to sand the distressed boards lightly to give the material an old barnyard charm.
Finally, add the desired stain. Ideally, this stain should be dark and will require multiple coats. Don’t hesitate to mix different hues, this makes the pieces look even more weathered. Perform a final sand job to ensure the rural style has been achieved.
And, voila!
…what to do with these new materials? Check out Idea Corner’s plethora of posts on recycling reclaimed wood into something beautiful!
May 14, 2015 in Tech Toybox
With all the home improvement projects boasted about over at Idea Corner, there’s something that hasn’t been factored in… PETS! These lovable goofballs can often being the culprit of ruining some of the best home improvements around.
Introducing, The Petcube!
Connected to your smartphone’s Wi-Fi, this pet cam keeps track of your dogs movements when you’re on the go. Not only that, but with a built in microphone you can say “Hey boy! Get down!” miles away from your home. Even play with your dogs (or cats) while at work by using the built in laser pointer.
Don’t worry about the paint drying getting ruined with paws or new furniture being chewed up, instead get your hands on a Petcube.
May 13, 2015 in Idea Corner
Some can’t afford to do a total home makeover. But whether it’s time to get a home ready to sell or the rooms in the house need an upgrade, these 5 projects will definitely increase a home’s value and only cost some sweat equity and the cost for supplies.
1. Paint The Kitchen Cabinents
If a new set of countertops or stainless steel appliances aren’t in the budget, try painting the cabinets. Freshening them up with white or adding a pop of color will revamp any home’s tired food hub.
2. Change The Light Fixtures
Even in the dullest of rooms, new fixtures can burst new light on the scene. With many options of patterns, shapes and textures, new table or ceiling lamps can boost the style of any room.
3. Install Hardwood Floors
It should go without saying, but if you’re looking for a reasonably priced project to improve a home’s value, add hardwood floors. (And Chicagoans, check out Chicago Handyman’s great rates on flooring install!)
4. Apply Baseboard Trim
We all know luxury homes have crown molding… but what about baseboards? This quick addition will definitely attract the eye in any home.
5. Plant Drought Tolerant Landscaping
Home value upgrades should be made from the inside, out. Planting drought tolerant plants ensures a curb appeal all year long.
For even more projects to increase a home’s value, check out Christian Personal Finance’s article with even more ideas on how to raise a home’s style and equity!
May 12, 2015 in Tech Toybox
3-D printing was always a fantasy for kids, a limited reality for art school students and a real but specialty item in large company innovations. However, Makerbot is bringing 3-D home to people with their Makerbot Replicator Mini.
At $1,375, the printer is expensive by some standards, but by far the most affordable 3-D printer on the market. Whether you need to make a model for class or looking to make a new product like a clock, i-Pad stand or phone case, a 3-D printer could be a great asset for any home.
So create a 3-D life with Makerbot Replicator Mini.