Tips On Do It Yourself Roofing

If you have the goal of building a roof, there are of course many things you should know and have in mind. If you do not exactly how to build it or don't feel sure of any of the steps involved in the task, you should ask a professional to do it. Besides this, you should have in mind that building a roof requires time and attention to every detail therefore you must be patient to success on the task.
To start with, you should be aware of many safety tips in order to avoid accidents or problems. As you should do in any construction site, you should wear heavy soled boots, and rubber ones when working on the roof itself. Besides this, you should also have protective eyewear for the time when power tools are being operated, and wear gloves when handling lumber or other similar materials.
You should also make sure of unplugging any tool to which you might need to make an adjustment, as well as tie your hair in case it is long since if you don't, it could be caught in a power tool and you could be seriously injured. Besides this, be always very careful when handling not only tools but also materials, especially if they are heavy. If you can't move something easily, ask for help.
Before building a roof, you should also check your local building code. It is most likely you will need specific permits for building it and you would have to meet requirements for it. Do not try to avoid these permits since it could not only cause you legal problems but could also be dangerous since a roof can not be built over or next to every structure you might desire, it should be inspected first.
As it can be noticed, building a roof involves many steps and patience even before actually building it. But, keep in mind that the better you plan everything and the more precautions you take, the better the result will be since you will be doing everything correctly and safely.

By: Jakob Jelling

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Get home design and decorating ideas by watching homes from all over the world - please visit www.dwank.com

Getting The Tools For Do-it-yourself Car Repair

It's great to be able to do as many things as possible by yourself. Imagine fixing your vehicle without having to take it to a mechanic and pay your first kid's college savings? That is the reason why do-it-yourself car repair is such a big deal. Everyone and their grandmother wants to get under their own hood and get it all fixed up by themselves. How great would it feel to be able to take care of yourself?
If you are interested in cars and want to empower yourself and fix your own auto, the first thing you should do is have a good, thorough look at the manual. Familiarize yourself for all the thousands of tiny little parts of your vehicle. Although it sounds like a daunting task, everything will make more sense after you have absorbed it. And best of all: It will save you piles of cash as well. So, get each auto part figured out and see how it all works together.
If you want to fix something in your car and make it run better, you want to make sure you know what you're doing. IF you want to do something more important, like replace your brake pads, you want to be sure you're doing it right. That's a job you certainly don't want to screw up.
After you've perused the appropriate vehicle manual, you need to stock up on tools. But before you go and shell out the cash at your local automotive store, take a look on the internet. You can often find better deals online, as well as tips on what brands are the best. There are loads of forums online where you can get free advice.
How Can You Save Cash?
Before you purchase anything on the internet, make sure it's what you need. You can go to a 'big box' shop like for example Wal-mart and do some window shopping. Go somewhere with a wide selection of tools and look around. Ask the staff for advice. Then, when you know just what you need, go home and order it from the internet. It is important to make sure you are getting the right things;it can be an expensive pain to have to send the wrong thing back.
The most important thing is to make sure your repairs are thorough. You don't want to make any mistakes that will cost you more money later. If you are totally clueless, check out some online forums.

By: Terry Bolton

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Terry Bolton is a publisher of Informative articles about Car Repair. Check out The-Car-Repair-Portal.com for more

Confined Space Rescue—not A “do It Yourself” Job

When a worker in confined spaces is injured or trapped on the job, the last thing anyone would want is for the rescuers to be hurt as well. Yet, without the right training or specialized confined space equipment, the most well-intentioned hero could unfortunately make matters worse.
What is a confined space?
Confined spaces are not necessarily small, or even closed. They are characterized by having a limited means of entry or exit. They could possibly only be accessed with a ladder, or they may have only one entry point.
Just to give you an idea of the range, some examples of confined spaces are: maintenance holes (manholes), sewers, boilers, tunnels, pipelines, wells, fuel tanks, storage tanks, tank cars and tank trucks, vats, process vessels, septic tanks, sewage lift stations, vaults, silos, bins, and ventilation and exhaust ducts. Confined spaces can even include deep empty swimming pools, deep trenches, deep open top tanks, pits and roof spaces.
Each of these spaces is not necessarily hazardous in and of themselves. However, the size, shape and location of the exit can increase the risk associated with occupying the space in the event of an emergency. For example, a storage tank may for some reason rapidly take on water. It may be unexpectedly difficult to exit due to the nature of the construction of the tank, thus increasing the risk of harm.
These spaces are not regulated by general building codes for habitable structures, since there is no expectation that people will spend a lot of time there. And, since most of us are accustomed to living and working in environments where exits are strictly regulated and hazards carefully foreseen and prevented, we may make the mistake of thinking all spaces are safe. But they’re not.
Possible hazards
Many of the hazards of confined spaces can’t be seen or smelt, so are especially dangerous. There may be an oxygen deficiency that is undetectable at first, but becomes progressively worse the further you get into the structure. Some atmospheres are highly flammable through a mixture of dusts, gases or vapors that can explode or catch fire. Toxic gases may be unnoticeable at first as well.
Other hazards include the presence of toxic chemicals, slippery surfaces, becoming stuck in a tight spot, falling, or being buried by material stored in the space. Biological hazards include diseases that can reside in water that stagnates in a confined space.
It’s important to be on the lookout for all these possibilities, since they do not occur in normally occupied spaces so they are especially unexpected.
Safety Tips
Everyone should be aware of the precautions to take before entering any structure that is not generally intended for human occupation.
--Be aware of the confined spaces around you, and ask for specific training on the space before entering.
--Obtain the correct permits before entering. This is an instance where the laws are not devised to keep anyone from what they need to do, but rather to ensure that everyone using a potentially hazardous space is fully informed of the hazards.
--Monitor the air in the confined space before entry. Poisonous gases may be undetectable to the human senses. Use special confined space equipment such as a gas monitor to determine the safety of the space, both at the top, the middle and the bottom (since different gases have different weights).
--Be sure there is adequate ventilation, or use confined space equipment such as blowers to provide oxygen or get rid of harmful gases. Ventilation should be continuous where possible, because in many confined spaces the hazardous atmosphere will form again when the flow of air is stopped.
--Only enter the space if you are thoroughly trained about potential hazards and have the proper confined space equipment to work safely.
--Assign someone else to be an attendant, and post that person outside the confined space to keep an eye on your status. Attendant should be in constant communication with the person in the confined space to make sure ventilation is working, monitor the air, and call for help.
--Attendants should not, however, attempt to perform a rescue, unless they are fully trained on confined space rescue procedures and there is yet another attendant present.
Confined space equipment
It’s a good idea to have the proper training and rescue equipment nearby in the event of an emergency, just in case.
Retrieval systems such as tripods and winches can be used to rescue workers without having to enter the space. Rescues that require entry should only be done by specially trained rescue workers.
In addition to using ventilation and other measures, workers need protective gear. This includes a full body or chest harness and may also require respirators, hard hats, goggles, earplugs or muffs, gloves, boots, or other protective clothing.
In short, while it is a good instinct to want to be helpful when you can see someone else is in danger, you don’t want to compound the problem by putting yourself in danger, too. Contact a qualified professional as quickly as possible, and use proper confined space equipment for rescue. You may be saving more than one life by doing so.

By: dave4

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Rick Pedley owns and operates PK Safety Supply, a distributor of safety and confined space equipment. PK Safety Supply has proudly been serving both government and private industry for over 59 years. Visit them today to buy online at store.pksafety.net/.

Cd Rip – Do It Yourself Or Contract Out The Work

So you want to rip a cd collection. You’ve heard it’s not that hard to do and you’re ready to get started. And even though it seems the rest of the world has “been there, done that” the truth is, lots of people still haven’t ripped music from their cd collections. The big question you need answered right now is, “How do I rip a cd?”
At this point, you have two basic options. You can find cd rip software and you can start this project on your own. Or you can go online where you will find several companies that have the capacity to rip mp3s from cds in a fraction of the time it’s going to take you to do it.
Here’s what you can expect from each of these rip from cd options.
For those of you who want to pursue the “DIY” or the “do it yourself” option, what you’re going to have to do first is locate cd rip software. You won’t even have to leave home because you’ll find plenty of cd ripping software right on the Internet. Just search for cd rip software and within seconds, you’ll be bombarded with choices.
As you begin to dig deeper into each of these cd rip software options, you’ll notice plenty of free cd rip packages and you’ll also see that many will require payment prior to downloading. If you’re unsure which cd rip software to choose, poke around a bit more and you’ll find plenty of cd rip software review sites that will likely answer all your questions about each product’s capabilities as well as the pros and cons of using it.
But if you cannot even make it past the semi-technical jargon you’re encountering – words like cd rip open source, OGG Vorbis, file converter, audio converter, batch file conversion, skinable user interface and others – you probably want to stop what you are doing and proceed down a different route. Otherwise, you’ll only end up frustrated.
Have someone else rip your cds
This is the other option and it’s one that many people choose, so don’t feel inept or inadequate. If you’ve got friends who are a bit more tech savvy than you are, it doesn’t hurt to ask for a favor. If you don’t, then go back to the Internet and start a new search. This time, search for cd ripping services.
When you work with a cd rip service, you send the service your cd collection and the cd rip service will rip mp3s from the cds for you. The service should know how to handle advanced editing features like tagging your newly converted song collection so that you can sort your music by genre, by artist, by cd, by cover art and more. You’ll pay a couple hundred dollars or so for a cd rip service, but in a week, you’ll have all your favorite cd rips. Then, you’ll be able to take your music along with you anywhere you go!

By: ArizonaRips -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Rip a CD

Do It Yourself Landscaping- 6 things you must know before you start.

Designing and growing a beautiful landscape garden around your home is a great experience. Just imagine how it will feel looking
around your own beautifully grown and maintained garden, that stays fresh all the day and fills your life with a sense of pride. But before you start let's take a look at some of the key factors that can needs a major decision while executing your garden.
I have tried to list down some of the common points here that need attention prior to starting out landscaping design.
1) Information about plants.
This is quite obvious. You must have a list of plants ready with you. .it is not difficult to create such a list from a catalogue of plants at your local nursery or from the Internet, but the problem is these are the plants that you like, does not mean they are suitable for growth in your garden.
Why is this so? Simply because there are many factors that are
responsible for the growth of a plant in your garden, such as direct sunlight, amount of water required, frequency of watering, which compost to use and not to use, doe the plant grow individually or in groups, and many more. SO don't choose plants that just look good in photographs, find out something more about their basic requirements.
Also it is important to know the basic structure of plant. For example how tall will it grow after 10 years from now. It should not happen that you have planted a tree and after a few years it is blocking your entire garden entry passage and view from inside of the house.
It's ok if you don't have each and every detail about all the plants. But if you plan for future, the results will be quite satisfactory.
2) Gardening Tools
This is very important aspect of gardening. Growing a landscape garden is not an easy task. I am not discouraging you, but it requires physical hard work and such time gardening tools can save your tremendous energy.
There are many excellent tools available today and also in quite
affordable prices. Depending upon what you want to achieve and the expanse your garden you will require different sets of tools. Start with making of list and then short listing the most important ones my deciding priorities.
3) Landscaping Design Styles..
This is not an absolute must, but if you take extra efforts, I bet you can easily compete with the professional designers. Visit your local library or the internet and get an idea of how "design" plays a role in landscaping. When designers talk about "balance", "ambience", "proportions", "vista formation" what exactly are they talking about. All these elements can greatly add value to your garden such that people visiting your garden will always remember it.
4) Landscaping Material..
Again a very basic understanding of landscaping materials along with their costing structure is enough for you. Whey costing is necessary? Because this can have a drastic effect in hoe you execute your garden.
It should not happen that you have personally liked a material, you have seen it at some public garden or at your friend's place and want to use it in your backyard garden but at the last moment the budget doesn't allow you to use it.
5) Executing Your Garden..
Do you know what's the single most important aspect in executing a garden? it's schedule. By schedule I mean what comes first and what comes next. There are various questions to ask.
*When do I start?
*When should I order the plants from the nursery?
*Where should I store them before panting?
*If you are going to use electricity in your garden when should I call the electrician to perform his wiring tasks?
*what about compost bags?
*How many do I need them?
*what about the bags that go unused? and lot more...
Even if you appoint a "landscaping contractor" for this job, you can always use this list to cross examine what he is up to.
6) Maintaining Your Garden..
Maintained is the most important aspect in a garden. Someone has very cleverly said "It is very easy to be first, but it is comparatively harder to keep up the first position". A landscape garden is no different from this.
look it's simple you are using natures forces to express your
creativity, so follow natures rule and you will never fail. there is unlimited potential in nature to easily grow and maintain a beautiful garden on it's own, so shale hands with natures forces and see you dream come true. That's why the first point in this articles is very important. First study what works and what doesn't in your climatic conditions and then safely start to put your dream into reality.
I hope this article was helpful to everybody.
Copyright Shrinivas Vaidya

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About the Author: Shrinivas Vaidya is the webmaster on landscapingdatabse.com If you are interested in making the most out of your landscaping passion, I recommend you visit my website to find an excellent list of books on Do It Yourself Landscaping. You will be glad you visited.

Tips and advice about do-it-yourself travel in Tanzania

Having answered the question yes, I must also add that to take care and use your common sense is necessary.
From the last two weeks in July through August and into September is madness in East Africa. Impossible to find accommodation and truly lunacy reigns in the Tourist Industry – every safari company working almost 24 hours per day. For this reason I would try to avoid coming at this time, bargains are hard to find and the African experience is not so agreeable at this time.
Low season is the best time to come – this is from the end to March to the end of May - everything is cheaper and real bargains can be found with relative ease.
Option 1. The advice is to come anytime other than July through to September. Make your way to Aruhsa. There are many hotels in Arusha from five-star to budget hotels. Many of the budget hotels are basic but very clean and pleasant. If you are in low season [April to June] you may be able to negotiate room rates in the budget hotels and get a good discount. The hotels are easily found through the Tanzania Tourist Information Office website.
The safari negotiation: make your way to the centre of town – to Boma Street and India Street. Here you will find many young men selling safaris for local companies to earn commission. It can be a bit daunting as you may find yourself surrounded by many of these agents. This process is not for the faint hearted and be forever on the look out for pickpockets [wherever in the world there is a distracted tourist the pickpocket is not far behind.]
When you have found someone you like – insist on going to his ‘office’ or take him to a restaurant for a soda; there are many nice restaurants in the area. Now you must barging, always in a good-natured manner and be prepared to talk and be prepared to be silent and think. Insist on seeing the transport vehicle and do not part with any money in advance. Pay only on the morning of departure no matter what you are told the contrary. Remember the whole process it done in a relaxed and friendly manner.
Option 2 is to go to the Tourist Information office on Boma Street. It is clean and air-conditioned and the staff are efficient and friendly and will advise you on your options. They can recommend many safari companies that you can simply go to and ask for a quote for a safari. Again, to bargain is the key and to negotiate takes time.
The second option is the safest and easiest of the two choices. Shop around and be prepared to take a day or two before making the decision. Often the best prices are obtained when you are not rushed and as you leave an office saying, you will let them know tomorrow – often the price will fall as you are leaving the office.
Tanzania is relatively safe and friendly. Be aware of pickpockets as you would anywhere in the world. Take your time as things move slowly in Africa. Above all, enjoy yourself. Shopping for a safari can be one of the highlights of the African experience and you make valuable contacts for your next visit.
Make direct contact with a few safari companies before you travel through the internet as most [small boutique companies] will give you information and help even if you do not intend to book with them.
Enjoy your safari

About the author:
For more information on Tanzania see http://www.betheladventure.co.uk and more general information on Tanzania see http://www.tanzania-info.co.uk – responsible tourism can change lives.

Fix the Satellite Receiver and Do it Yourself: Try the Fix It Forums

We know you've got a problem and a big one:  you just paid big-time money for that wide-screen TV and had satellite (dish network)  service installed, thought you were all set; then, all of a sudden, nothing happens.  Well, what you need, then, is a real do-it-yourself satellite receiver fix.  If you're looking to me to give you an elementary school primer in satellite receiver electronics, I'm certainly not the one who can do it, but I may be able to point you in the right direction to some friendly and multi-talented souls out there who love to help people find ways to do it themselves.

First of all, if you're running low on cash, don't have the time, or just have a stubborn streak that prevents you from asking anyone to come in and see what they can do to help you, good online forums, such as Bobvila.com, the Ultimate Home Site online, may be able to give you the advice to make it all better.  This website has an advanced forum with do-it-yourself advice for problems related to wiring a telephone line to a satellite receiver, busting codes for a remote that is of a different brand than the TV, getting Toshiba apex codes that work with Sony digital receiver satellite remotes — you name, this forum's got it.  So next time you find yourself in a fix, don't give up; just fix the satellite receiver and do it yourself, with the help of the advanced forum at Bobvila.com.   

Writing a Memoir: Do It Yourself or Hire a Ghostwriter?

 

Some time ago, I was hired by a woman with a harrowing family story to tell. She desperately wanted to share her tale, believing that it would expose truths and help other people, but she recognized that her writing was not at a professional book author’s level. So I agreed to ghostwrite the manuscript.
I had never done such a job before--editing books was my thing, not writing them--and I soon came to regret it. The woman lived far from me, so I never met her, and she had a difficult time understanding the level of detail I needed from her to effectively turn the events of her life into a potential book. The experience led me to ask: Can a deeply personal story be told in a deeply personal, affecting, true way--by someone who didn’t live it?
A recent poll showed that 81 percent of Americans believe they have a book in them. I’d bet that at least half those people have a memoir in mind. The genre has exploded over the past decade or so (though I’m still not sure how it differs from a good old-fashioned autobiography… Does anyone write those anymore?). But, of course, not everyone with a poignant story to tell has the writing skills to tell it effectively. So many turn to a ghostwriter for help.
If you fall into this category of aspiring author, keep this wisdom in mind that I gleaned from my own experience:

• Shop around. Make sure your prospective ghostwriter understands your story, not just knowing the events, but really getting what you want to say on a deeper level. To achieve such a connection, you must be completely honest and open with him/her. Hire someone in your geographical area if possible, so you can meet in person.
• Draw up a contract. Essential every time you work with another writer, even if it’s your best friend. Especially if it’s your best friend. Avoid any future conflicts about credit on the book jacket, whether the ghostwriter gets royalties or a flat fee, what happens if you decide it’s not working out, etc. Then you can focus on telling your story together.
• Tell your ghostwriter everything--and I mean everything. Reveal even things you don’t want to reveal in the book. Just as a character needs a backstory, the ghostwriter needs context to make the story feel true. Trust is essential between you. Think of your ghostwriter as your therapist. Nothing leaves the room (except what goes in the book).
• Distance yourself from your story. Get into your ghostwriter’s head and realize that he/she doesn’t know what you know. Details are essential to effective writing, so while your daughter may not be a major character in your memoir, and while you may know every detail about your daugher, the ghostwriter doesn’t. Every character in a good book is richly drawn. So even if she’s in only one scene of the book, talking on the phone, tell your ghostwriter the color exactly how she acts when she’s on the phone--not to mention the color of her eyes, her best friend’s name… you get the idea.
  The bottom line is that Brechtian, emotionally distanced memoirs don’t sell, unless you’re a literary genius on the level of Brecht. So if you decide to seek ghostwriting help to create your manuscript, make sure your ghostwriter can feel close and connected to you and your story. Make sure the book in your head can be channeled through them onto the page.

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  About the Author: Lisa Silverman is a freelance book editor and works in the copyediting department at one of New York's most prestigious literary publishing houses. She has also worked as a ghostwriter and a literary agent representing both book authors and screenwriters. She founded http://www.BeYourOwnEditor.com in order to provide writers with free advice on both writing and the publishing business.

Home Security-more Do It Yourself Home Security

In my article "Home Security-Low Cost Alarms That Work" we talked about the effectiveness of low cost alarms to protect your most valuable asset-your home-without sending you to the poor house. There was a Consumers Union study in 2002 that found that barking dogs and alarm systems are the most effective ways to keep intruders out of your home.
In a recent Colorado Springs Gazette article, David Husted crime prevention officer of the Falcon Division of the Colorado Springs Police department was quoted as saying "The sound of a big dog barking is a really good deterrent, too." Asked if he'd spend money on an alarm or a dog "I don't know, I may just go with the dog, if it's got a really good bark."
In the time it takes you to read the next four small paragraphs two more burglaries will occur in the United States. Remember this: property crime occurs every 3 seconds, a home burglary every 15 seconds.
When a burglar goes looking for his next victim he "cases" the neighborhood and individual homes looking for weaknesses. How your home looks to him will send a signal if he feels he can be successful or not. If he sees to many potential problems with your house why would he bother when there are so many others to choose from?
Here are some additional inexpensive ways to help prevent home burglaries and provide the best home security for your most valued possession-your home.
Motion Activated Spotlights These are easy to install, relatively inexpensive lighting systems activated by motion detectors. One of the things burglars don't like is LIGHT.
Signs For an Alarm Company Burglars do their homework. When they break into a place it is usually with some degree of planning. If they see a sign in a yard that the property is protected by an alarm system EVEN IF YOU DON'T HAVE ONE they are much less likely to target the home.
Neighborhood Watch Program Signs Again for the reasons listed above, burglars will think twice about invading a Neighborhood Watch neighborhood. If you don't have a Neighborhood Watch Program set up-start one. Your local police department will be glad to help get one going. Check out www.usaonwatch.org for more specifics.
Dummy Surveillance Cameras Dummy surveillance cameras have a proven track record in reducing burglaries for a fraction of the cost of their "real" brothers. Most dummy cameras look like the real thing with flashing red LED and warning signs that the property is being monitored by CCTV.
NRA Stickers Place an NRA sticker so it can be seen from the road in a conspicuous place-high on your living room window, on your mailbox, or on the bumper of a car parked in the driveway. This sends a signal to a potential burglar that an occupant of the home may be armed.
The key here is to "advertise" to potential burglars that your home will not be their next target. By using these low cost home security devices and following these home security tips you will help prevent a burglary at your home. Home security alarm systems are effective but for most people they are too expensive.
If you think crime can only happen to the other guy you are wrong. The "other guy" is thinking the same thing and YOU are that "other guy". There is a reason why they call it self defense. You have to protect yourself, your family, your home and business!!

You don't have to spend a fortune to protect your home against the growing threat of home burglary. Some inexpensive creative ways are very effective in guarding your most expensive possession-your home.

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The Positive Ramifications of Do-It-Yourself Credit Repair

Many couples have been merrily breezing along then, IT happened. There was not enough money to meet all the monthly obligations. Living in the suburbs, a two-paycheck family with 2 children with soccer, little league baseball, golf and club memberships, spas all sandwiched and woven into the tapestry of the McDonald family. Steve and Karen had considered themselves, being well educated and well read, above the fray of the struggles of the other “Jones”. There was no reward unworthy of their attention.
Suddenly the kitchen table, with a stack of unpaid bills, became the center of their universe. Steve and Karen came to a quick conclusion, that they now had a severe financial problem. Denial was no longer an option. Previously, Steve and Karen had noted in the church bulletin announcing an ongoing class in credit counseling. Churches and other non-profits became aware of the degree of pain and deep divisiveness that a credit challenged family will undergo. Many a credit crisis ended in divorce and even a loss of their home and much of their self-respect. It has been found anyone going through this credit-challenged period may suffer mental depression, which can magnify health issues. Masking with alcohol abuse or worse just prolongs the inevitable. This ongoing program had some success with several couples. Testimonials touted the change in enrollees credit situations over time. Early on it was noted that a blue print could be provided and worked out, but the parties have to repair their credit themselves. It was a Do-It-Yourself Credit Repair program. The helping hand was right at the end of the elbows of each couple.
The meetings turned out to be on a Monday evening. Because this was a family based program focused on getting every member of the family on board; the children were in attendance with childcare provided on site. Depending on the ages of the children, there was a segment allocated to exactly what was going on with the whole family involved with individual family break out sessions. Later on, it would make for short family discussions of why this or that activity or entertainment needed to be changed or cut back. At this break out session, a family consensus was necessary on a course of action to proceed to the next step. Each enrolled couple needed to pay for a credit report from each of the three main credit bureaus. This generally ran $10-$12 per credit reporting agency or a little over $30. You can get a free credit report from the bureaus, but it does not have the credit scores, which will serve as a ready benchmark for progress in the program. The first order of business was to deal with the shame and embarrassment of a couple finding themselves in this situation. With ready credit being offered with each delivery of mail, all you have to do is sign your name and you got some plastic money. Like drugs, “Just Say No”.
With the credit reports in hand and each outstanding bill with account numbers and contact phone numbers carefully catorgized on a summary sheet together with a priority selection of secured debt and unsecured debt the process began. Secured debt would be a house payment, car, etc. If one does not pay these secured debts they foreclose on the house or repossess the car. Unsecured debt is the credit cards. Armed with income, tax with holding, history of income tax refunds and such a budget was roughed out for each family. At this point, decisions on the order of importance of the debts would be hashed out and decided. The key to a proper work out is to start the communication process with creditors immediately and include them in your plan to rebuild your credit.
The counselor went over their situation and a plan was developed and agreed to. For now, the McDonalds needed to focus on paying 100% of the secured debt. So the house and car payments (for now) would be paid on time and as agreed. The unsecured debt, such as all the credit cards, would need to be worked out with a reduced payment plan. The counselor shared that this would not be the first time that anyone had contacted them with a work out plan. In no case, should any work out plan with a credit card company be worked out that cannot be maintained. If nothing else, go for severely reduced payment plan or share that the alternative would be nothing. That has consequences, however.
There are really only three things that can be done in this situation. Increase income, reduce expenses, or do both. In this case, Steve got a part time job. Unnecessary expenses were eliminated. Both cars were upside down, meaning they owed more than they were worth. Nine months of over payments got the car loan below book value and they were sold. Two good used ones were bought. Deals on every credit card were worked out at lower payments. Every card except one was cut up. Club memberships were terminated-no contracts. Golf was in the park shagging balls and the kids kept the soccer and little league play going. In 18 months the McDonalds had cash flow help through credit repair.
Dale Rogers
www.brokencredit.com

Home Security-more Do It Yourself Home Security

In my article "Home Security-Low Cost Alarms That Work" we talked about the effectiveness of low cost alarms to protect your most valuable asset-your home-without sending you to the poor house. There was a Consumers Union study in 2002 that found that barking dogs and alarm systems are the most effective ways to keep intruders out of your home.
In a recent Colorado Springs Gazette article, David Husted crime prevention officer of the Falcon Division of the Colorado Springs Police department was quoted as saying "The sound of a big dog barking is a really good deterrent, too." Asked if he'd spend money on an alarm or a dog "I don't know, I may just go with the dog, if it's got a really good bark."
In the time it takes you to read the next four small paragraphs two more burglaries will occur in the United States. Remember this: property crime occurs every 3 seconds, a home burglary every 15 seconds.
When a burglar goes looking for his next victim he "cases" the neighborhood and individual homes looking for weaknesses. How your home looks to him will send a signal if he feels he can be successful or not. If he sees to many potential problems with your house why would he bother when there are so many others to choose from?
Here are some additional inexpensive ways to help prevent home burglaries and provide the best home security for your most valued possession-your home.
Motion Activated Spotlights These are easy to install, relatively inexpensive lighting systems activated by motion detectors. One of the things burglars don't like is LIGHT.
Signs For an Alarm Company Burglars do their homework. When they break into a place it is usually with some degree of planning. If they see a sign in a yard that the property is protected by an alarm system EVEN IF YOU DON'T HAVE ONE they are much less likely to target the home.
Neighborhood Watch Program Signs Again for the reasons listed above, burglars will think twice about invading a Neighborhood Watch neighborhood. If you don't have a Neighborhood Watch Program set up-start one. Your local police department will be glad to help get one going. Check out www.usaonwatch.org for more specifics.
Dummy Surveillance Cameras Dummy surveillance cameras have a proven track record in reducing burglaries for a fraction of the cost of their "real" brothers. Most dummy cameras look like the real thing with flashing red LED and warning signs that the property is being monitored by CCTV.
NRA Stickers Place an NRA sticker so it can be seen from the road in a conspicuous place-high on your living room window, on your mailbox, or on the bumper of a car parked in the driveway. This sends a signal to a potential burglar that an occupant of the home may be armed.
The key here is to "advertise" to potential burglars that your home will not be their next target. By using these low cost home security devices and following these home security tips you will help prevent a burglary at your home. Home security alarm systems are effective but for most people they are too expensive.
If you think crime can only happen to the other guy you are wrong. The "other guy" is thinking the same thing and YOU are that "other guy". There is a reason why they call it self defense. You have to protect yourself, your family, your home and business!!

By: Jack Krohn

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NOW the next step is for you to take action TODAY. Check outTHE AMAZING CYBEREYE and our Great ELECTRONIC WATCHDOG Homeowners check out details on ONE MONTH FREE HOME SECURITY and great FREE Home Security Information

Landscaping Ideas For The Do-it-yourself Gardner

Landscaping your garden is not such a difficult task. Many people enjoy doing it themselves. You"ve just got to have the ideas and know the basic principles of landscape design.
Begin by taking a close look at the gardens and parks in your neighborhood, identifying the consistency, balance, simplicity, proportions, transitions, lines and contrasts in the landscaping designs and the use of plants, garden décor, landscaping fabric, etc.
Then sit down and make a landscaping plan for your own garden. Take measurements and prepare a sketch. Select a theme and decide the focal points. Provide for irrigation systems, sprinklers and vehicular access.
Decide on the materials, plants, décor, colors, textures and positioning. Keep an eye on the details and take a bold yet simple approach.
Have confidence in yourself and see yourself landscaping your garden as a do-it-yourself gardener. Sound fantastic? Yes, you can do landscaping all by yourself and create a splendid visual. Read on.
Landscaping begins with a basic understanding of the principles involved.
· Be simple. If you"re doing it for the first time, don't make a complicated plan for landscaping. Select something simple, do it, find out how easy is it. Happy? Try something more complex next time.
· Create a theme. This helps you to be consistent. You place things that match each other in shape, size, color, texture and tone. Don't place a big red rock next to a small white one. If you are working on the theme "water", have a fountain or two and a couple of small ponds in the design. Repeat things. You get more unity in landscaping this way.
· Balance things in landscaping. It can either be symmetrical or asymmetrical. The former is the mirror image type. One part replicates the other part in layout, design, plant height, plant grouping, bed choice and color scheme. The later creates diversity in landscaping design - some abstract form with widely different shapes and layouts.
· Be creative in color choice. Color adds life, so use it imaginatively to create maximum effects in landscaping. Place contrasts, bright against the subdued and get the real beauty. Achieve depth with dark colors. Draw things close with cool colors. Make the distance noticeable with bright colors.
· Move naturally. Don't jump abruptly-use the staircase effect. Tall, small, smaller, smallest-follow this order in landscaping when planting trees and shrubs.
· Follow lines. These appeal to the eyes most naturally. Use straight lines to create sharp impacts and curvy lines to bring in pleasing effects.
· Stick to proportions. This is basic in any design and landscaping is no exception. Don't strike a discordant note by placing a big artifact in a small garden. Or set up a small fountain in a big, splashing pond! All our objects and decor should match one another in proportion to create the most appealing landscape.
All landscaping designs have a focal point. Get good garden statues, natural objects and garden decor to be your focal points. Place tall plants in the middle or behind a group of small plants-the tall plants attract us naturally. Circles have a special appeal, so placing the focal point in the deepest part of an inside curve often gives very special effects to the landscaping.
Draw out your landscaping plan. Take measurements of your plot. Make a sketch using an appropriate scale, like 1 inch=10 feet. Prepare the layout of paths, beds, objects, sidewalks, decks and driveways. Get ideas and read books. Select the appropriate style-formal or informal, classic or contemporary. Finally, give shape to the master plan. You may try the "bubble graph" for a better representation. Select a good landscaping fabric. Avoid plastics and don't let gaps get between sections of fabric. Now, your landscaping plan is ready. Go ahead and implement it, become a do-it-yourself gardner.
A simple, consistent, balanced, naturally flowing and proportionate approach with a bit of creativity can bring out the landscaping genius in you.

Landscaping your garden is not such a difficult task. Many people enjoy doing it themselves. You"ve just got to have the ideas and know the basic principles of landscape design.
Begin by taking a close look at the gardens and parks in your neighborhood, identifying the consistency, balance, simplicity, proportions, transitions, lines and contrasts in the landscaping designs and the use of plants, garden décor, landscaping fabric, etc.
Then sit down and make a landscapin...

Copyright © 2006, Heather Colman. Find more landscaping resources at landscaping-report.info.

Do-it-Yourself Online Logo Creation

Anyone who owns a business or who is starting a new business can attest to the value of owning a powerful and effective logo.

Logos communicate who you are and allow you to connect with your customers with an easily recognizable symbol that is truly yours. But for most people, turning design ideas into a reality can be both difficult and expensive.

Do-it-yourself logo design customers are looking for a fast and easy way to create a big business logo on a small business budget. Industry leading do-it-yourself applications allow you to design and download the right logo right away.

Your logo is only as good as the image or icon you start with. When choosing a logo design service, look for a service that provides logos designed specifically with logo creation in mind. Logos designed by professional designers will give you multiple choices in style, colors and layouts. High quality logos that have been designed by professional designers are also more easily recognizable and give you a more professional look to your logo.

Do-it-yourself logo creation tools should be easy to use, and thus, save you valuable time when you need a logo. Look for a service that allows you to create a custom logo in minutes and download your new logo immediately. Do-it-yourself logo creation is as easy as choosing an icon based on your industry, a letter, or an abstract image, adding personalized type and making the logo layout yours.

Typical do-it-yourself logo creation tools allow you to search for logos in easy and intuitive ways. Industry leading do-it-yourself applications divide the icons into three categories; symbol based, categorized by industry (such as a tree or a house), alphanumeric (A-Z and 1-9), or shape-based/abstracts (pyramids, swooshes, globes, etc.). Finding the right image should not be a long laborious process, if the application you are using is designed properly.

Some of the best applications on the web today incorporate an “Ask a Friend” option that allow you to receive feedback on your logo from your friends. Your friends simply open a URL included with an email, vote on the best logo design, and then you access their responses through the application’s feedback tool.

Once your logo has been created, you will need several different file formats in order to take full advantage of your logo. Make sure the do-it-yourself logo service you choose provides you the following file formats of your logo:

1. EPS, or vector image files, are essential for printing quality business cards and stationary.
2. JPEG, or compressed image files, are meant to be displayed on the web and are NOT meant for printing.
3. GIF, or Bitmap image files, are images with a transparent background. GIF files are perfect for use on websites with background colors other than white.

Whatever service you choose, your ultimate goal should be to create a professional looking logo that communicates the right message about your business.

Jeremy Wycherly writes articles for Logo Design companies such as Logo Maker.com. Make your own Logo Creation with our easy-to-use online Logo Maker.

Article Source: http://www.article99.com

Delicious Do-it-yourself Snacks For Kids

Nearly seven million American children come home from school to an empty house, clamoring for a quick, appetizing snack only to settle for junk food. But instead of reaching for the sweets during those cool after-school days or hot summer nights, kids can put on the chef's hat and prepare their own easy, tasty snacks that are just as satisfying.
Kids often shy away from preparing anything other than a peanut butter and jelly sandwich because it's too difficult and time-consuming. But there is a wide variety of products available at the grocery store, like Tyson® refrigerated, fully-cooked chicken and steak strips, which simplify the snack- and meal-making process for kids. The strips go from package to plate in minutes-making it easy to prepare kid-favorite snacks and meals such as pizza, tacos and pasta. These well-balanced, do-it-yourself options are high in protein and have zero grams trans fat, so parents can feel good about providing kids with a wholesome alternative to help power them through their active days.
With snack and meal ideas like these, children can come home and reach for something other than the usual suspects-instead preparing a delicious snack on their own. Who knows? Maybe they'll even graduate to making family dinners.
Fiesta Chicken Nachos
11/4 cups Tyson® Southwest Seasoned Chicken Breast Strips
1 bag (10 oz.) tortilla chips
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
1. Layer chips, cheese and chicken strips on a large, microwave-safe plate.
2. Microwave on High for 30 to 45 seconds or until cheese melts.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with pico de gallo, guacamole and sour cream. Refrigerate leftovers.
Chicken Tacos Olé
1 package (6 oz.) Tyson® Refrigerated Fajita Chicken Breast Strips
4 taco shells
1/2 cup shredded cheese
Shredded lettuce
1. Heat chicken strips and taco shells according to package directions.
2. Fill shells with meat, cheese and lettuce.
Serving Suggestion: Other toppings can include diced tomato, salsa and sour cream. Refrigerate leftovers.

Nearly seven million American children come home from school to an empty house, clamoring for a quick, appetizing snack only to settle for junk food. But instead of reaching for the sweets during those cool after-school days or hot summer nights, kids can put on the chef's hat and prepare their own easy, tasty snacks that are just as satisfying.

For more tasty kid- and parent-pleasing ideas, visit www.tyson.com.
Providing kids with tasty, do-it-yourself snacks can be a terrific way to foster positive eating habits.

Do It Yourself Non-Surgical Facelift

I’m the first to investigate a new anti-aging product or procedure, and have been for the last twenty years. Sometimes I’ve even gone so far as to indulge myself with the promise of eternal youth. So either the earth’s gravitational pull is getting stronger or raising children has finally taken its toll. Here I am, middle aged and wondering what’s the next thing to “go south.”
I’m an esthetician with all the tools of the trade. I have all the gizmos and gadgets that when used regularly will minimize the effects of aging. So why don’t I use them on myself? Because it seems that there is never enough time.
With all the new technology such as lasers, thermage, microcurrent and magic lotions and potions, there is always a cost. It might be the price, the risks or the inconvenience. What if there was something you could do in the privacy of your own home for as little as 10 minutes a day. I know, I’m beginning to sound like an informercial but the claims are that there really are things you can do that can help get that youthful jawline and line free forehead back. Would you be willing to give 10 minutes a day for a few weeks to try it and see for yourself?
Facial exercises have been around for ages. Now it makes sense that toned muscles are firm muscles and that goes for the face as well as the body. As we age the underlying muscles of the face become flaccid and are less able to support the skin that is attached to them. While there is a lot that can be done to tighten and firm the skin, it is the underlying muscles, that when toned and tightened, make the biggest difference.
My first experience with facial exercise was with Greer Childers in her exercise program, “Body Flex.” She based her technique of the premise that oxygenation of the tissue keeps it young and vibrant. She had me doing the “Lion” and the “Ugly Face” (appropriately named) where I would get into position and pull these horrible grotesque faces and hope to high heaven no one walked in on me. She promised me that while everyone else was trying to “smooth the wrinkles out of their face we will have the last laugh because we will already be there.”
Then came Ellae Elinwood with her book, “Timeless Face.” This is a book I got not only for myself, but for my clients to prolong the effects of their facial treatment. Ellae has twenty three facial exercises that you do in front of the mirror....alone... or with a group of five year olds for entertainment.
Another favorite is “Facelift at you Fingertips,” by Pierre Jean Cousin. I really like this book and incorporate a lot of the techniques in my facials. This book focuses primarily on acupressure points, massage and aromatherapy. By stimulating acupressure points in the face by massage or gentle tapping, you increase the flow of energy, increase circulation and improve muscle tone.
Now I don’t know about the facial gadgets you put in your mouth to help exercise and tone the muscles. Besides the sanitation issue, I question the effectiveness. The only thing I will put repeatedly in my mouth is my tooth brush.
One company sells a workout ball and a towel to heat and warm up the face before exercise. I guess this is so you don’t pull an orbicular oris muscle during your workout.
The most important exercise you can do to improve the face is to smile. Have you ever noticed how people who smile more tend to have a definite jaw line. If jowls are your problem try looking in the mirror and then smile and watch how the jowls disappear. Smiling can relieve stress and tension and help you feel better. Your smile will have an affect on others when they see you smiling. You can even use surgical tape while you sleep to keep that smile in place.
Incorporate these facial exercises into your daily exercise routine and you can be firm and toned head to toe.

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About the Author: Janice Bird is an author, an empowerment coach and a master esthetician. You can subscribe to her newsletter, Breakthrough Beauty Secrets, by going to http://breakthroughbeautysecrets.com/. Find out more about Janice, her articles and products at http://janicebird.com/

Do-it-yourself Home Improvement Tips

Often times, improvements to your home are quite small scale and you can, without much difficulty, complete these enhancements by yourself. While there is always the possibility of hiring a contractor, electrician or plumber to tackle these problems when they arise, why would one do so when they can easily fix the problems themselves? With the aid of the Iternet or home improvement magazines, an individual can quickly find simple, speedy solutions to whatever dilemma may crop up.
Some tasks may require you to find a friend willing to lend a helping hand as they are simply too exhaustive for one person. An abundance of these home improvements can be performed with ease solely by you. Among the many categories of repairs or renovations that you may have to or choose to perform are flooring projects, electrical work, plumbing, masonry, gardening and landscaping, refinishing furniture and fixing and installing windows. Using the Internet, magazines or advice from a friend or hardware store employee can allow you to obtain the information you may require in order to carry out one of the related projects by yourself. Many magazines and websites actually have complete, step-by-step walkthrough procedures and how-to guides.
While there is a wealth of job specific things one has to consider before engaging in any do-it-yourself undertaking, there are also numerous things that one must remember before attacking any home improvement project. First off, safety should be your number one priority, thus you should make sure that any potential hazards are eliminated. It is crucial that you make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies required for the task. You would not want to find yourself part of the way through a project and unable to continue because you simply overlooked some of the job's requirements. You must also ensure that you are comfortable with proceeding about the task by yourself and that you know and understand how to do everything that is required for the undertaking.

By: Jordi Shoman -

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If you need House and Home information or have articles on House and Home issues, visit our House and Home section for more in-depth resources. Free website content.

Do It Yourself Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Kitchen cabinet refacing saves thousands over replacing all the cabinetry. Doing the job yourself saves even more money. Labor is a significant percentage of the total cost of refacing. You could save up to half the price by saving on the labor costs. While it isn’t an easy task, it is possible for a skilled homeowner.
Do it Yourself or Hire a Pro?
This is a big job. You will need some skills and experience in home remodelling to tackle the job. It can be stressful, if you aren’t sure of yourself. Refacing isn’t a job that should be rushed. You need to have patience and the time to invest to do the job right.
Precise measurements are needed when attempting to give your home a makeover with cabinet refacing. Measuring is one of the most important parts of the job. It must be exact on the door openings, face frame and ends of the cabinets. Also accurate measurements are needed for the doors and drawer fronts. If you are off by even a little bit, the material won’t fit right.
Time should be taken to prepare all surfaces for refacing. You will need to remove all the cabinet drawers and drawer fronts. Clean all surfaces to remove dirt and grease. You will then need to roughen the surfaces to prepare them to hold the materials. This part of the job shouldn’t be rushed and steps shouldn’t be skipped.
If you don’t have the skills, time or patience, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job for you. Attempting a big job like this is very stressful. If you don’t take the time to do the job right, it could end up costing you more in the long run.
Tools for Kitchen Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing supplies are available on the internet. Many sites offer tutorials with step by step instructions and pictures to help you do the job. There are a variety of tools to help you do a professional job at home.
Pressure sensitive veneer is the easiest material for the do it yourself home handyman. This material is easy to use and has a paper backing that peels off. Line up the veneer to the surface and apply pressure to hold it in place. The surface will need to be prepared well before the veneer is applied. Solid wood veneer is the easiest to work with and is the best quality material for this job.
A veneer roller can be used to apply pressure to the material. These come in small and large sizes and give good pressure. The larger size covers more area. Always start at the center and roll outward. This removes air bubbles that can ruin the look of the veneer.
A smoothing blade can be used to press down firmly when attaching veneer. Start at the center and slide in the direction of the grain. Use both hands to give sufficient pressure. Repeat until firmly attached.
Edge band iron and edge trimmers are useful for finishing. The band iron is used to attach the band to the edge of the cabinet doors. A clothes iron can also be used for this job, but will be larger and more bulky to work with.

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Jack Blacksmith releases many articles for the www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com internetsite. The author is specializing in subjects like kitchen cabinet refacing

Do-it-yourself Moving Tips

As many as 17 million household moves take place each year in the U.S. If you are among the do-it-yourselfers, here are a few tips to get you started:
• Truck Selection. Most movers find the 12- or 16-foot truck perfect for moving a few large items or the contents of a small condo or apartment. For guidance with larger moves or your truck selection, visit www.GoPenske.com.
• Reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance.
• Pack smart, loading the heaviest items on the truck first.
• Mark your boxes as you pack, so it's easier to put them in the right room when you unload.
• To ensure a smooth moving day, pick up your truck a day early and practice driving it.
• Take extra precautions, especially when the truck is loaded. Use caution near low-hanging tree branches and building overhangs and when cornering. Park in well-lit areas and padlock the rear door.
• Make safety and security a priority. Trucks are taller, wider, heavier and require more stopping distance than the vehicle you are used to driving. Drive slower and take extra precautions, especially when the truck is loaded. When traveling, park in well-lit areas and padlock the rear door. Penske offers 24/7 emergency roadside assistance and optional protection plans.
Create a travel bag for moving day to keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, change of clothes, drinks and snacks close at hand.

By: Stacey Moore

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

For more moving tips, visit www.GoPenske.com. Using boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, moving blankets and hand trucks can help make your move easier.

Car Paintings - Do It Yourself

To do a good Porsche painting, Ferrari painting or whatever you going to paint, it is very important to not to be in a rush while doing it. I can guarantee you that 99% of all those great car paintings you have seen, has taken lots and lots of time to do, not just 30 minutes! And that is why it is so important that you do not just draw a little bit and then give up because it does not look like what a professional would paint a car.
I often start by looking at the outward lines of the car and then just try to get them on the paper, and I don’t start shading and all that until I’m fully satisfied with the general proportions of the car. And one thing I always do it to not draw the wheels until I’m happy with the other proportions of the car, because the wheels are always so hard to get right and if they look bad, then they will make your whole car painting look bad. So starting out, just look at the car you want to paint for a while, and then start drawings some thin lines of the outward of that car. And then just go ahead and add a few details here and there.
When you feel you have most of the car outlined well on your drawing, start to work on the shading. One hint here is to start at the left upper corner if you’re right handed and move slowly to the center area, because that will help you not to get the whole drawing messy with your arm over the painting.
When you feel the drawing is done, put it away for a while and then get back to it, perhaps the next day or so. Doing this will probably make you realize a few things on the painting that you can improve, that you would not otherwise have seen.
And remember; you don’t need tons of talent to make a car painting look great because patience is everything!
Lukas Niklasson is the associated editor to the website Car paintings.
It is a website that focus on car paintings of all sorts. It get updated regurarly with new drawings and interesting information regarding car artwork.

By: Lukas Niklasson

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

How To Make A Cornhusk Doll

 

History

Cornhusk dolls are one of the oldest forms of dolls known in the Americas. The Iroquois have a legend about the "faceless doll." The first cornhusk doll was made to be the companion for a little Indian girl. The doll was so beautiful; it spent all of its days gazing at itself in the clear pond in the woods. The Creator punished the doll for her vanity and removed her face forever.

It's up to you to decide if your doll will have facial features, although the traditional way is to remain without a face.

Materials Needed

• Cleaned and dry cornhusks (prepare your own or purchase in ethnic produce section)
• Twine or strong string
• Fabric scraps
• Yarn for hair (optional)

How To Make It

1. Soak the dried cornhusks in warm water for about 30 minutes until they are soft and pliable.

2. Gather six husks at the large end, holding the tips down. Tie tightly with twine or string about 1-inch from top.

3. Cut off about ¼" above the string to even the top edges.

4. Holding the knot in your hand, turn the husks down over the knot. (It will look like you're peeling a banana.) After all the husks are pulled down over the knot, secure tightly with a piece of string to form the head.

 

5. Form the arms by rolling husks lengthwise and tie each end to form hands.

6. Fit the arm piece under the neck string between the six layers hanging below the neck.

7. Tie a string under the arms to secure the arm in place and create a waist for your doll.

 

8. Criss-cross the chest area with two thinner husks, pulling the husks tightly and tying at waist with another piece of string. This will look like a shirt. Also, at this point, decide if you're making a girl or boy.

 

 

9. Boy: Divide the husks hanging below the waist into two legs. Tie each leg with a string at the knee and another at the ankle. Do this to both legs. Allow to dry.

10. Girl: A longer skirt may be added by tying cornhusks around the waist pointing up toward the head. Peel the leaves down over the string to form the skirt. Allow to dry.

11. Decorate as desired with fabric scraps and yarn for hair or leave alone for a tradition look.

 

How To Make Simple Soft Toys: Part 2

4. Cutting the Pattern pieces

Look at your template and instructions to determine how many pieces you need and plan your layout, keeping in mind the extra needed between pieces for seam allowance.

On most basic patterns you usually need to cut two of each pattern piece for each toy. As we advance to more sophisticated patterns you might need to cut only one as for a 'gusset' or 4 as for ears, legs and arms.

Fold your fabric so that the wrong side of the fabric is facing out ("wrong sides together"). Trace the pattern templates on the wrong side of the fabric. Use a few straight pins to keep the two layers of fabric aligned. Cut out at least 1/4 inch (or 3/4 of a cm) outside of the tracing line. See Diagram.

Tip: For baby toys especially, I often use scraps from old clothes or sheets etc. The material is lovely and soft from much washing and ironing and any sizing or starch is long gone.

5. Sewing

Unless specified otherwise, (very rare) you always sew on the wrong side with the right sides of the fabric facing each other.

Machine Sewing

If your machine allows it, set the needle to automatically stop in the 'down' position. You will need to lift the presser foot frequently to shift the material because of all the curves. You're going to want that needle holding your place on the stitching line.

Go slowly, it's still much faster than hand sewing.

Use your traced line to guide you. Stitch just to the inside of this line so that the line is part of the seam allowance. See Diagram.

Stitch all around leaving the opening for stuffing and turning. See Diagram. Start and end with an automatic tie off stitch or make a couple of stitches forward, reverse over those stitches, then move forward again to tie off. If you forget this step, you can pull up the thread on one side of the fabric so that it pulls up a loop of the bottom thread. Use a pin or needle to expand that loop then pull the bottom thread end through to the top. Tie the two pieces of thread together a couple of times to form a strong knot flush with the fabric. See Diagram.

Hand Sewing

Take a length of thread no more than 3 feet (90cm) Double your thread and tie a knot at the end. Read the instructions for machine sewing. Stitch the pieces together right sides facing, using a strong back stitch.

Clip the seam allowance on all inside curves (Indicated by V marks on the original HowToUniverse template). Clip as close to the stitch line as you can without cutting the seam line threads.

6. Turning and Stuffing

Use a stuffing stick to help turn the toy inside out. A stuffing stick can be any long narrow blunt ended item handy, such as the eraser end of a pencil. You can use the knobbed end of a knitting needle but avoid using the pointy end. (It's very easy to poke a hole in your fabric this way.) The best stuffing sticks I've used have been wooden ones made from doweling or a chopstick. Sand the ends so you have one end small but blunt for turning small areas like ears etc. and a larger blunt end for larger spaces.

7. Before stuffing.

On the right side mark the facial features and other embroidery marks using your template as a guide. The stitches (or fabric paint if you prefer) will cover these marks.

You will notice that the fabric will have a helpful tendency to fold under at the seam line opening. Press the seam allowance under along the seam line either with an iron or by creasing it between your fingernails. You will want a very definite crease line to guide you when you close that opening.

8. Stuffing

Pull off small pieces of stuffing and shove them into the opening using your chosen stuffing stick. Fill the furthest and smallest areas first, like feet, hands, ears. Continue stuffing until you have the softness and fullness you want. Close the opening with a blind stitch. Some call it a ladder stitch. See Diagram.
9. Embroidering Features

Use a Satin Stitch for solid areas such as eyes an noses and a Basic Back Stitch for curved lines like the mouth and eyebrows.

Any additional instructions will be included in the individual project or pattern instructions.

How To Make Simple Soft Toys: Part 1

Basic Instructions For Making Soft Toys

1. How to enlarge the Templates

How To Universe Pattern Templates are created as simple GIF image files. Simply right click on the one you want select 'Save Picture As' and save it to your computer. Change the name to something you'll easily remember.

Each template is on a grid and marked to show how many squares to an inch. Our How To Universe project templates are half size. Each square represents 1/2 square inch or approximately 2.5cm.

If you have a printer you can print them out at 200% and let your computer do the work. They have been designed to fit on standard letter size paper (8.5 inches by 11 inches). Just be sure and set up your page properties with no margins, tabs or borders.

If for some reason you are only able to print them at 100%, or you don't have a printer you can copy them to a floppy disk and then either ask your local print shop or a friend to print them for you at 200%.

If none of the above is available, there's always the old fashioned way. Make a paper grid of 1/2 inch squares then draw the pattern onto this larger grid while you have the pattern on your screen. Or if you have a flat screen monitor, use whatever graphics program you have to expand the pattern to 200% on the screen. I've used Image Composer this way but MS Paint or any program that allows you to open or insert a .gif image file and zoom in by 200% or 2X the original size, will work. You may even be able to do this with your browser. (Highlight the pattern and right click, select 'Zoom' if available from the drop-down menu. Place a piece of tracing paper or other paper you can see through over the screen and trace.

Tips: - Mark the grid lines to help keep your place as it will likely take up more than one screen.
- Move your head or scroll the pattern so that the part you are tracing is at eye level.
- It's Not a good idea to tape the paper to the screen. If feasible with your monitor you can try using masking tape to tape it to the plastic casing.
- If you can see well enough try to follow the outside edge of the solid black line around the pattern.
- Compare your tracing with the onscreen pattern make any necessary adjustments and mark your template with all the notes and marks from the original.

2. How To Prepare the Full Size Template

I recommend that you make a card template. This will make tracing your stitching line much easer and the edge will stand up better through repeated use than a paper template. You can use bristol board or an old cereal box or something similar. If you have one of those solid glue sticks handy, use it to glue the paper template right to the card then cut it out. (Don't use a wet glue it warps the paper and curls the cardboard.) You could also buy flat plastic sheets specifically made for making templates. These are the best as they stand up very well under repeated use. It's more pricey but if you have a pattern you plan to use over and over again it's worth the investment.

Note: Cut the template along the outside edge of the black outline.

OR Cut the paper template out and trace it carefully onto the cardboard.

Mark the template with "Add 1/4 inch seam allowance" Some designers include the seam allowance on their patterns or templates and you might not remember years from now which was which.

Mark your template with colored dots where you will need to clip the seam allowance. Add any facial features or other marks you will need from the original template. Carefully cut out the eyes and other large embroidery areas. I usually make a small slit in the center of an eye with pointy scissors or a very sharp utility knife to start with, then carefully clip or cut out the whole eye. For smaller markings like smile lines and eyebrows etc. I make punch holes with a large pin or strong needle wiggling the pin to enlarge the hole just enough to allow my pencil lead to reach the fabric. Then I use these holes to make dotted lines to guide me.

3. Tracing the Template onto your fabric

You have my permission to use any fancy tailors chalk, dressmaker's tracing paper or expensive pencils and markers sold for this purpose that you like. :) I usually end up using pencils or pencil crayons - the cheap ones. You can always find a contrasting color that shows up well on whatever color fabric you use. (Don't use pens or markers etc of course)

Trace the template all round. You will stitch right next to but just inside this line so that the pencil mark is on the seam allowance.