Friday, August 30, 2013

How to Identify Trees From the Laurel Family

Laurels are flowering plants of the order Laurales. There are many genera of Laurales and many different plants known as laurel. The most well known is probably the genus Laurus, which includes the Bay Laurel. Bay leaves are a popular culinary herb, and laurel wreaths were used as tokens of honor in the classical world. Spice bush, avocado, and sassafras are also members of the order Laurales. The Bay Laurel, also called the True Laurel, in distinguished by several features.

Instructions

    1

    Know if the tree is evergreen or deciduous. Laurels are evergreen trees and do not shed their leaves in winter.

    2

    Study the tree's leaves. Bay leaves are anywhere from 2 to 5 inches long and about an inch to an inch and a half wide. They are stiff and glossy and quite aromatic.

    3

    Look for inconspicuous flowers. Bay Laurel flowers are pale yellow or green and very tiny. They appear in pairs next to a leaf.

    4

    Search for the presence of fruit. After flowering, laurels produce a small, dark berry with a seed inside it.

    5

    Consider where the tree is growing. Most laurels thrive in subtropical environments. The Bay Laurel is native to the Mediterranean region. In more northerly climates small specimens may be seen in herb gardens where they are grown as an annual culinary herb.


Laurels are flowering plants of the order Laurales.

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. There are many genera of Laurales and many different plants known as laurel. The most well known is probably the genus Laurus, which includes the Bay Laurel. Bay leaves are a popular culinary herb, and laurel wreaths were used as tokens of honor in the classical world. Spice bush, avocado, and sassafras are also members of the order Laurales. The Bay Laurel, also called the True Laurel, in distinguished by several features.

Instructions

    1

    Know if the tree is evergreen or deciduous. Laurels are evergreen trees and do not shed their leaves in winter.

    2

    Study the tree's leaves. Bay leaves are anywhere from 2 to 5 inches long and about an inch to an inch and a half wide. They are stiff and glossy and quite aromatic.

    3

    Look for inconspicuous flowers. Bay Laurel flowers are pale yellow or green and very tiny. They appear in pairs next to a leaf.

    4

    Search for the presence of fruit. After flowering, laurels produce a small, dark berry with a seed inside it.

    5

    Consider where the tree is growing. Most laurels thrive in subtropical environments. The Bay Laurel is native to the Mediterranean region. In more northerly climates small specimens may be seen in herb gardens where they are grown as an annual culinary herb.

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

How to Make Popsicle Stick People

When it comes to making crafts with the kids, it can be tough to always come up with a project on the fly. Well here's a craft project that is both simple a cost effective, making popsicle stick people. In about 20 minutes, you and your kids can create several different characters.

Instructions

    1

    Trim 4 of the 5 popsicle sticks using the scissors. It may take a forceful squeeze of the scissors. You're aiming to take off 1/4 of the popsicle sticks. These will be the arms and legs of the body. If you notice, the length of your arms and legs are fairly similar.

    2

    Glue the legs and arms on your body. The popsicle stick that is uncut is the torso. Take two of the popsicle sticks and place a dab of glue on each. Then press that to the back of the torso where a human arm would be. Repeat this process with the remaining cut popsicle sticks to form the legs.

    3

    Place a book on top of the popsicle stick person for the moment. This will help the glue harden correctly.

    4

    Trim a few small pieces of yarn. This is going to be the hair of the popsicle stick people.

    5

    Cut a small circle out of the paper plate. This is going to serve as the head of each popsicle stick person. Repeat this for as many people you are making.

    6

    Draw the facial features of your popsicle stick people on the little heads you just cut out. Remember to use your imagination and draw all different kinds of people utilizing features like colors of eyes, eyebrows, eyelashes, facial hair, lipstick and more.

    7

    Affix the face to the top of your stick people using glue. Add a few pieces of yarn for the hair and your little popsicle stick person is finished.


When it comes to making crafts with the kids, it can be tough to always come up with a project on the fly. Well here's a craft project that is both simple a cost effective, making popsicle stick people. In about 20 minutes, you and your kids can create several different characters.

Instructions

    1

    Trim 4 of the 5 popsicle sticks using the scissors. It may take a forceful squeeze of the scissors. You're aiming to take off 1/4 of the popsicle sticks. These will be the arms and legs of the body. If you notice, the length of your arms and legs are fairly similar.

    2

    Glue the legs and arms on your body. The popsicle stick that is uncut is the torso. Take two of the popsicle sticks and place a dab of glue on each. Then press that to the back of the torso where a human arm would be. Repeat this process with the remaining cut popsicle sticks to form the legs.

    3

    Place a book on top of the popsicle stick person for the moment. This will help the glue harden correctly.

    4

    Trim a few small pieces of yarn. This is going to be the hair of the popsicle stick people.

    5

    Cut a small circle out of the paper plate. This is going to serve as the head of each popsicle stick person. Repeat this for as many people you are making.

    6

    Draw the facial features of your popsicle stick people on the little heads you just cut out. Remember to use your imagination and draw all different kinds of people utilizing features like colors of eyes, eyebrows, eyelashes, facial hair, lipstick and more.

    7

    Affix the face to the top of your stick people using glue. Add a few pieces of yarn for the hair and your little popsicle stick person is finished.

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

How to Select a Garden Gnome House

Garden gnomes bring fantasy and charm to any outside space and a gnome house is the perfect compliment to any collection. Approach your selection from all angles to find the right gnome house for your individual needs, not forgetting that your gnomes have to live there too.

Instructions

    1

    Look at the construction of the various houses. Consider whether the construction is sturdy enough to withstand the climate and consider how long they will last. Most garden gnome houses are specifically designed to be outside and are built accordingly but obviously some materials are more durable than others. Choose man-made strong materials if you live in an extreme climate.

    2

    Match the color and style to that of your gnomes. If you already have a couple or a collection of garden gnomes, find a house that compliments your garden friends. German-themed, brightly colored or a partially hidden house are all ways you can create uniformity in your garden so that all your garden art will match together.

    3

    Buy a house that will fit in with your garden and foliage. There are hundreds of different styles available from an alpine chalet to a tropical beach hut. If you live in New Mexico, a snow-covered house might look strange in your yard. Likewise, it would be unlikely for residents of Alaska to choose a hula hut made of perishable materials.

    4

    Shop around for other accents that will go well with your house if you are planning on creating a larger attraction. Doors set into trees, toadstools or bridges are all very popular gnome accents, so check that any of these will look fine with the house you choose.


Garden gnomes bring fantasy and charm to any outside space and a gnome house is the perfect compliment to any collection. Approach your selection from all angles to find the right gnome house for your individual needs, not forgetting that your gnomes have to live there too.

Instructions

    1

    Look at the construction of the various houses. Consider whether the construction is sturdy enough to withstand the climate and consider how long they will last. Most garden gnome houses are specifically designed to be outside and are built accordingly but obviously some materials are more durable than others. Choose man-made strong materials if you live in an extreme climate.

    2

    Match the color and style to that of your gnomes. If you already have a couple or a collection of garden gnomes, find a house that compliments your garden friends. German-themed, brightly colored or a partially hidden house are all ways you can create uniformity in your garden so that all your garden art will match together.

    3

    Buy a house that will fit in with your garden and foliage. There are hundreds of different styles available from an alpine chalet to a tropical beach hut. If you live in New Mexico, a snow-covered house might look strange in your yard. Likewise, it would be unlikely for residents of Alaska to choose a hula hut made of perishable materials.

    4

    Shop around for other accents that will go well with your house if you are planning on creating a larger attraction. Doors set into trees, toadstools or bridges are all very popular gnome accents, so check that any of these will look fine with the house you choose.

Sunday, August 25, 2013

How to Make Trees for a Gingerbread House

A gingerbread house is complete when the decorations are added and. One can make the house a million different ways. The simple country home could have an ivy vine piped onto the side and a drive leading up to it. Here is how to make trees you can use to live the drive.

Instructions

    1

    Make the trunk of the tree out of several pretzel sticks "glued" together with royal icing in the shape of a trunk or use 1 large pretzel stick. Cut the pretzels to size. Match the trunk proportionate to the house's height.

    2

    Follow the directions to make crispy rice treats. Double the amount of marshmallows in your recipe. This will make the tops of the trees harder.

    3

    Add green food coloring to the crispy rice treat pan. Use a small amount of brown food coloring if you want darker green leaves. Mix in the food coloring while the "leaves" are still hot.

    4

    Mold the tree tops into a ball. Wear the heat resistant gloves since you have to work with crispies mixture. Insert the trunk into the tree while it is still warm and pliable. Set aside.

    5

    Add decorative "apples" to the gingerbread house's trees. Use Red Hots or red sprinkles to get the best effect. Your trees are ready for the drive.


A gingerbread house is complete when the decorations are added and. One can make the house a million different ways. The simple country home could have an ivy vine piped onto the side and a drive leading up to it. Here is how to make trees you can use to live the drive.

Instructions

    1

    Make the trunk of the tree out of several pretzel sticks "glued" together with royal icing in the shape of a trunk or use 1 large pretzel stick. Cut the pretzels to size. Match the trunk proportionate to the house's height.

    2

    Follow the directions to make crispy rice treats. Double the amount of marshmallows in your recipe.

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    . This will make the tops of the trees harder.

    3

    Add green food coloring to the crispy rice treat pan. Use a small amount of brown food coloring if you want darker green leaves. Mix in the food coloring while the "leaves" are still hot.

    4

    Mold the tree tops into a ball. Wear the heat resistant gloves since you have to work with crispies mixture. Insert the trunk into the tree while it is still warm and pliable. Set aside.

    5

    Add decorative "apples" to the gingerbread house's trees. Use Red Hots or red sprinkles to get the best effect. Your trees are ready for the drive.

How to Buy Robot Radio Controllers

How to Buy Robot Radio Controllers

If you're building your own robot, one thing you'll need to consider is how you're going to control it. Radio controls are the standard option for controlling a robot, but controls come in a variety of strengths and number of channels, so you'll want to shop around. Remember to factor in the size and weight of the receiver when building your robot.

Instructions

    1

    Look for a receiver that is sized to fit your robot. Receivers vary widely in size, and while larger receivers may be more powerful or hold a charge for longer, you may need to go with a smaller model to fit your robot.

    2

    Consider the weight of the receiver when building your robot. The receiver will add weight to the robot, which means that the robot's center of gravity and needs for traction and power may change when you install it. Some brands of receiver may advertise being very light, but be aware that you'll probably pay top dollar for the lightest receivers.

    3

    Remember that you will need both a radio receiver and a radio transmitter, which may be sold together or separately.

    4

    Determine the strength of radio signal that you need. The farther away you'll be operating your robot, the stronger you'll need the signal to be. Most controls come in 2.4 GHz, which is adequate for controlling any robot that's close enough for you to see.

    5

    Decide how many channels you want your radio control to have. You can use a multi-channel control for multiple radio-controlled devices, but you may also have channel interference, so think hard and shop around.

    6

    Determine if you need to buy a separate antenna for the robot to enhance the power of the receiver.

    7

    Remember that both the receiver and the transmitter need a source of power. The most common way to operate a receiver and transmitter is to use rechargeable batteries.

    8

    Consider using secondhand parts from other radio controlled devices, like robot toys or remote controlled cars, boats or planes. You can expect to pay several hundred dollars for new transmitters and receivers, so using old parts can save you a bundle.


How to Buy Robot Radio Controllers

If you're building your own robot, one thing you'll need to consider is how you're going to control it. Radio controls are the standard option for controlling a robot, but controls come in a variety of strengths and number of channels, so you'll want to shop around. Remember to factor in the size and weight of the receiver when building your robot.

Instructions

    1

    Look for a receiver that is sized to fit your robot. Receivers vary widely in size, and while larger receivers may be more powerful or hold a charge for longer, you may need to go with a smaller model to fit your robot.

    2

    Consider the weight of the receiver when building your robot. The receiver will add weight to the robot, which means that the robot's center of gravity and needs for traction and power may change when you install it. Some brands of receiver may advertise being very light, but be aware that you'll probably pay top dollar for the lightest receivers.

    3

    Remember that you will need both a radio receiver and a radio transmitter, which may be sold together or separately.

    4

    Determine the strength of radio signal that you need. The farther away you'll be operating your robot, the stronger you'll need the signal to be.

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    . Most controls come in 2.4 GHz, which is adequate for controlling any robot that's close enough for you to see.

    5

    Decide how many channels you want your radio control to have. You can use a multi-channel control for multiple radio-controlled devices, but you may also have channel interference, so think hard and shop around.

    6

    Determine if you need to buy a separate antenna for the robot to enhance the power of the receiver.

    7

    Remember that both the receiver and the transmitter need a source of power. The most common way to operate a receiver and transmitter is to use rechargeable batteries.

    8

    Consider using secondhand parts from other radio controlled devices, like robot toys or remote controlled cars, boats or planes. You can expect to pay several hundred dollars for new transmitters and receivers, so using old parts can save you a bundle.

Saturday, August 24, 2013

How to Avoid Food Dyes

Despite growing interest in whole and organic foods, many processed foods still contain a number of chemicals. These substances are used to color foods, extend shelf life, intensify flavor and improve texture. Some food colorings may be linked to brain, thyroid, kidney and adrenal cancers, allergies and other health concerns. While chemical food additives are regulated by the federal government, many people still wish to avoid food dyes.

Instructions

    1

    Read labels. This can be a challenge, since the list can be long and you may need to do some translation. Chemical food dye can appear in beverages, candy, gum, pudding, ice cream, snack foods, cereals, dairy products, jelly and jam, condiments, powders, frostings, syrup, powders, extracts, sausage and baked goods. Canned fruit, especially cherries, may contain various food colorings. Pet foods can also contain food dyes.

    2

    Eat mostly fresh, whole foods that you prepare yourself or that come from a trusted retailer or restaurant. Focus on foods rich in vitamins that act as antioxidants, such as A, C and E. Also look for minerals such as zinc and selenium, which can help your system detoxify.

    3

    Buy organic produce when possible. Wash and peel fruits and vegetables that are not organic, since food dyes and other chemical additives may linger on the peels. Whenever possible, buy produce in season and look for local offerings at farm stands and regional markets. Fruits and vegetables that have not had to survive long distance travel and storage are less likely to have been treated with chemicals to preserve their color and freshness.

    4

    Consume wild fish rather than farmed fish. For example, farm-raised salmon may appear to have the same deep red flesh of salmon caught at sea, but this is often the result of food dyes.

    5

    Look for an alternative to your favorite product if you discover it is too colorful. Compare product labels, since not all manufacturers use the same food colorings.

    6

    Avoid buying products with common blue food dyes. FD&C Blue Number 1 is also called "Brilliant Blue FCF" and "Bright blue". Blue Number 2 is called "Ingtotine" or "Royal Blue."

    7

    Learn alternative names for red food dyes. "Cherry-red" Red Number 3 is also called "Erythrosine." The "Orange-red" FD&C Red No.40 is also called "Allura Red AC."

    8

    Realize yellow food dyes are also called by a number of names. Yellow 6 is a common additive. Yellow 5 and 6 may cause hives or other allergic reactions.

    9

    Go against the green. FD&C Green Number 3 is also known as "Fast Green" or "Sea Green."

    10

    Realize that some food dyes that are considered "certifiable colors" by the FDA are limited to highly specific uses. For example, Citrus Red Number 2 is only found in some Florida oranges, and then only in the peel. This dye may pose a slight cancer risk, but it does not penetrate the fruit itself. Wash and peel the orange before eating it.


Despite growing interest in whole and organic foods, many processed foods still contain a number of chemicals. These substances are used to color foods, extend shelf life, intensify flavor and improve texture. Some food colorings may be linked to brain, thyroid, kidney and adrenal cancers, allergies and other health concerns. While chemical food additives are regulated by the federal government, many people still wish to avoid food dyes.

Instructions

    1

    Read labels. This can be a challenge, since the list can be long and you may need to do some translation. Chemical food dye can appear in beverages, candy, gum, pudding, ice cream, snack foods, cereals, dairy products, jelly and jam, condiments, powders, frostings, syrup, powders, extracts, sausage and baked goods. Canned fruit, especially cherries, may contain various food colorings. Pet foods can also contain food dyes.

    2

    Eat mostly fresh, whole foods that you prepare yourself or that come from a trusted retailer or restaurant. Focus on foods rich in vitamins that act as antioxidants, such as A, C and E. Also look for minerals such as zinc and selenium, which can help your system detoxify.

    3

    Buy organic produce when possible. Wash and peel fruits and vegetables that are not organic, since food dyes and other chemical additives may linger on the peels. Whenever possible, buy produce in season and look for local offerings at farm stands and regional markets. Fruits and vegetables that have not had to survive long distance travel and storage are less likely to have been treated with chemicals to preserve their color and freshness.

    4

    Consume wild fish rather than farmed fish. For example, farm-raised salmon may appear to have the same deep red flesh of salmon caught at sea, but this is often the result of food dyes.

    5

    Look for an alternative to your favorite product if you discover it is too colorful. Compare product labels, since not all manufacturers use the same food colorings.

    6

    Avoid buying products with common blue food dyes. FD&C Blue Number 1 is also called "Brilliant Blue FCF" and "Bright blue". Blue Number 2 is called "Ingtotine" or "Royal Blue."

    7

    Learn alternative names for red food dyes. "Cherry-red" Red Number 3 is also called "Erythrosine." The "Orange-red" FD&C Red No.40 is also called "Allura Red AC."

    8

    Realize yellow food dyes are also called by a number of names. Yellow 6 is a common additive. Yellow 5 and 6 may cause hives or other allergic reactions.

    9

    Go against the green. FD&C Green Number 3 is also known as "Fast Green" or "Sea Green."

    10

    Realize that some food dyes that are considered "certifiable colors" by the FDA are limited to highly specific uses. For example, Citrus Red Number 2 is only found in some Florida oranges, and then only in the peel. This dye may pose a slight cancer risk, but it does not penetrate the fruit itself. Wash and peel the orange before eating it.

How to Rehair a Violin Bow

A violin is a stringed instrument played with a bow. The modern form was first made in the sixteenth century and is considered to have reached its zenith of craftsmanship in the eighteenth century. The bow is about 29 inches long and traditionally strung with hair from a "white" (actually gray) stallion. The following steps will show how to rehair a violin bow.

Instructions

    1

    This should be done by a professional luthier. A violin bow must be rehaired professionally because it requires extensive training and specialized tools.

    2

    Inspect the bow for structural damage. If there are no problems, then disassemble the bow and clean the parts. Cut the hardwood plugs precisely for the head and frog.

    3

    Select and prepare the horse hair. The best hair is generally considered to come from horses in northern Mongolia with the ideal amount of hairs being about 150 individual strands.

    4

    Identify the minimum allowable tension as the point where the hair still has a small amount of spring and is a millimeter away from the shaft. Cut the hair so that it is at this tension when you loosen the frog as much as possible before the nut comes out of the shaft.

    5

    String the hair on the bow and inspect it to ensure the hair tightens and loosens adequately and that it is securely set in both the tip and frog.


A violin is a stringed instrument played with a bow. The modern form was first made in the sixteenth century and is considered to have reached its zenith of craftsmanship in the eighteenth century. The bow is about 29 inches long and traditionally strung with hair from a "white" (actually gray) stallion. The following steps will show how to rehair a violin bow.

Instructions

    1

    This should be done by a professional luthier. A violin bow must be rehaired professionally because it requires extensive training and specialized tools.

    2

    Inspect the bow for structural damage. If there are no problems, then disassemble the bow and clean the parts. Cut the hardwood plugs precisely for the head and frog.

    3

    Select and prepare the horse hair. The best hair is generally considered to come from horses in northern Mongolia with the ideal amount of hairs being about 150 individual strands.

    4

    Identify the minimum allowable tension as the point where the hair still has a small amount of spring and is a millimeter away from the shaft. Cut the hair so that it is at this tension when you loosen the frog as much as possible before the nut comes out of the shaft.

    5

    String the hair on the bow and inspect it to ensure the hair tightens and loosens adequately and that it is securely set in both the tip and frog.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

How to Get Your Art Into a Gallery

You've created some art and you think it's good enough to show off and sell. Any artist worth their salt knows the only way to get a good sale and build a reputation is by selling your work at a gallery. But gallery owners are picky and hard to approach, so follow these tactics to get your art into a gallery.

Instructions

    1

    Get an art agent. An agent's job is to get your work out there in front of the public. These people have contacts in galleries and museums that people starting out in art do not have. They will, however, take a cut of any money you make. Decide whether their assistance is worth 10 percent of your sale.

    2

    If you plan to approach gallery owners yourself, make a CD of your work. This keeps you from having to lug your precious work from gallery to gallery, and it also helps if the manager is too busy to look at your work when you stop by. Take a digital camera, make high-quality photos of your work and burn them on a CD with your contact info.

    3

    Set realistic prices for your work. A gallery won't touch a piece that it thinks will not sell because of price. Go to galleries and look at similar work by new artists and see how much their work is selling for and price accordingly.

    4

    Find smaller places to sell your work first, like coffee shops, restaurants and art fairs. If you have some proven sales, a gallery is more likely to take a chance on you.

    5

    Seek out galleries with similar work and only approach them. If you make marble sculptures, going to a gallery that only sells oil paints will not do you much good.


You've created some art and you think it's good enough to show off and sell. Any artist worth their salt knows the only way to get a good sale and build a reputation is by selling your work at a gallery. But gallery owners are picky and hard to approach, so follow these tactics to get your art into a gallery.

Instructions

    1

    Get an art agent. An agent's job is to get your work out there in front of the public. These people have contacts in galleries and museums that people starting out in art do not have. They will, however, take a cut of any money you make. Decide whether their assistance is worth 10 percent of your sale.

    2

    If you plan to approach gallery owners yourself, make a CD of your work. This keeps you from having to lug your precious work from gallery to gallery, and it also helps if the manager is too busy to look at your work when you stop by. Take a digital camera, make high-quality photos of your work and burn them on a CD with your contact info.

    3

    Set realistic prices for your work. A gallery won't touch a piece that it thinks will not sell because of price. Go to galleries and look at similar work by new artists and see how much their work is selling for and price accordingly.

    4

    Find smaller places to sell your work first, like coffee shops, restaurants and art fairs. If you have some proven sales, a gallery is more likely to take a chance on you.

    5

    Seek out galleries with similar work and only approach them. If you make marble sculptures, going to a gallery that only sells oil paints will not do you much good.

How to Make a Set Design Portfolio

A set design portfolio will demonstrate a scenic designer's work for potential employers. The quality of the portfolio will show the amount of time and effort spent which will give the impression of the commitment and care the designer has for each project. There are a few rules to follow when putting together a set design portfolio.

Instructions

    1

    Choose the work to represent wisely. There work in your portfolio should not only be your best work, but should vary to show your range of talents as a scenic designer.

    2

    Consider the order of the content in the portfolio carefully. The work represented should go in a logical order. For example, begin with realistic designs, move on to historical, opera or musical and finish with dance. Include all work for one show together on one page, or two pages that open together.

    3

    Include photographs of your completed work. Make sure the photos are large, color and good quality. Include photos with actors in them to see how the set worked in a practical sense. The photos should show the set in naturalistic light to show actual colors. Include multiple photos for scene changes or just one.

    4

    Put renderings and sketches in the portfolio close to the photos. This will show potential employers how the designs translate into reality. Show sketches of close up; specific details or if there is any special trick in the set to show.

    5

    Have drafts on hand. They are usually too big to display in a portfolio, but a technically-minded employer may want to see how things are done technically.


A set design portfolio will demonstrate a scenic designer's work for potential employers. The quality of the portfolio will show the amount of time and effort spent which will give the impression of the commitment and care the designer has for each project. There are a few rules to follow when putting together a set design portfolio.

Instructions

    1

    Choose the work to represent wisely. There work in your portfolio should not only be your best work, but should vary to show your range of talents as a scenic designer.

    2

    Consider the order of the content in the portfolio carefully. The work represented should go in a logical order. For example, begin with realistic designs, move on to historical, opera or musical and finish with dance. Include all work for one show together on one page, or two pages that open together.

    3

    Include photographs of your completed work. Make sure the photos are large, color and good quality. Include photos with actors in them to see how the set worked in a practical sense. The photos should show the set in naturalistic light to show actual colors. Include multiple photos for scene changes or just one.

    4

    Put renderings and sketches in the portfolio close to the photos. This will show potential employers how the designs translate into reality. Show sketches of close up; specific details or if there is any special trick in the set to show.

    5

    Have drafts on hand. They are usually too big to display in a portfolio, but a technically-minded employer may want to see how things are done technically.

Saturday, August 17, 2013

How to Read Reversed Tarot Cards

How to Read Reversed Tarot Cards

If you've been reading tarot cards for a while, perhaps you've kept your cards upright and haven't encountered the reversal of a card. Maybe you have chosen to read the cards regularly when they appear reversed in the spread. If you want to add more depth to your tarot readings, being able to read reversed cards will help you get more from a reading.

Instructions

    1

    Before you do a reading, consciously acknowledge your intention to read the cards as reversed. You may even want to state it out loud. If you've ignored the reversal of the cards, this step is important, because your energy helps to align the cards. This change must be kept in mind throughout the reading.

    2

    Do your reading as you normally would. Place your cards in their normal positions in the spread, and regard the meaning of each card individually, as well as in connection with the other cards.

    3

    Turn the tarot card over. If it's reversed, first read the card as you would have if it were upright. The signifiers are all the same. The illustration should arouse the same intuitive feelings and carry the same meaning.

    4

    Consider the reversal of the tarot card after reading it regularly. A reversed card means the same as an upright card, only diminished in some way. Often, a reversed card signifies what is meant to be, but hasn't been realized yet. Maybe something in your life is hindering you from expressing the energy in the card freely.

    5

    Notice the proportion of reversed and upright tarot cards and in your reading. If you notice that a large proportion of your cards are upright, this means your energies are, in general, flowing freely. Your spirit is expressing itself powerfully. If the majority of the cards are reversed, perhaps this is a sign that something in your life is stifling your energy.


How to Read Reversed Tarot Cards

If you've been reading tarot cards for a while, perhaps you've kept your cards upright and haven't encountered the reversal of a card. Maybe you have chosen to read the cards regularly when they appear reversed in the spread. If you want to add more depth to your tarot readings, being able to read reversed cards will help you get more from a reading.

Instructions

    1

    Before you do a reading, consciously acknowledge your intention to read the cards as reversed. You may even want to state it out loud. If you've ignored the reversal of the cards, this step is important, because your energy helps to align the cards. This change must be kept in mind throughout the reading.

    2

    Do your reading as you normally would. Place your cards in their normal positions in the spread, and regard the meaning of each card individually, as well as in connection with the other cards.

    3

    Turn the tarot card over. If it's reversed, first read the card as you would have if it were upright. The signifiers are all the same. The illustration should arouse the same intuitive feelings and carry the same meaning.

    4

    Consider the reversal of the tarot card after reading it regularly. A reversed card means the same as an upright card, only diminished in some way. Often, a reversed card signifies what is meant to be, but hasn't been realized yet. Maybe something in your life is hindering you from expressing the energy in the card freely.

    5

    Notice the proportion of reversed and upright tarot cards and in your reading. If you notice that a large proportion of your cards are upright, this means your energies are, in general, flowing freely. Your spirit is expressing itself powerfully.

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    . If the majority of the cards are reversed, perhaps this is a sign that something in your life is stifling your energy.

Thursday, August 15, 2013

How to Take Art Lessons

How to Take Art Lessons

Ever want to explore that creative side of life? Taking art classes may help pull out a part of you that you never knew you had. Before you spend money on just any kind of class, find out what kind of lessons would be best for you.

Instructions

    1

    Explore your likes and dislikes before you decide what art lessons to take. After all, how will you know what kind of artist to be if you don't explore what turns you on and what turns you off about art? Do you like the dreaminess of watercolor painting, or would you like to get your hands in some clay? It's up to you.

    2

    Visit some museums and make time to see special collections when they come into town. Pop in on local galleries, too, and learn to appreciate local artists and what they have to offer to your community.

    3

    Ask a local artist you admire or a gallery owner about classes in the medium you want to learn. They can fill you in on classes starting up or steer you toward an artist offering private lessons. Your local university may also offer classes to the public.

    4

    Check out a pottery painting shop or beading shop in your town. These shops offer some guidance but allow you to experience making your own creations for a small studio fee and the cost of the materials. Many times you can walk right in without an appointment necessary.


How to Take Art Lessons

Ever want to explore that creative side of life? Taking art classes may help pull out a part of you that you never knew you had. Before you spend money on just any kind of class, find out what kind of lessons would be best for you.

Instructions

    1

    Explore your likes and dislikes before you decide what art lessons to take. After all, how will you know what kind of artist to be if you don't explore what turns you on and what turns you off about art? Do you like the dreaminess of watercolor painting, or would you like to get your hands in some clay? It's up to you.

    2

    Visit some museums and make time to see special collections when they come into town. Pop in on local galleries, too, and learn to appreciate local artists and what they have to offer to your community.

    3

    Ask a local artist you admire or a gallery owner about classes in the medium you want to learn. They can fill you in on classes starting up or steer you toward an artist offering private lessons.

    >>> I recommend thisTrick Photography And Special Effects E-bookfor whoever love photography world. A MUST HAVE!! <<<

    . Your local university may also offer classes to the public.

    4

    Check out a pottery painting shop or beading shop in your town. These shops offer some guidance but allow you to experience making your own creations for a small studio fee and the cost of the materials. Many times you can walk right in without an appointment necessary.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

How to Get Rid of Dog Poop

All dog owners love their dogs. They provide companionship, love and protection. They also provide us with a lot of dog poop. Dog poop contains lots of bacteria along with harboring worms. For these reasons there are community guidelines and city ordinances requiring people to get rid of dog poop. Luckily there are many ways to get rid of it.

Instructions

    1

    Carry a plastic bag and a towels. If you are taking your dog for a walk at a community park or live in an apartment complex, this is going to be your best choice. Bags allow you to quickly get rid of the mess. If you don't want to chance getting your hands dirty, there are products that allow you to pick up the poop without using your hands. If you are on the go, you may want to consider purchasing a device that attaches to your keychain or can stay in your purse that holds disposal bags.

    2

    Use a pooper scooper if you don't have to pick it up immediately. Pooper scoopers are a great way of getting rid of dog poop. These have long arms so you don't have to bend down to pick it up. You also can hold the dog poop over a trash can and avoid ever having to touch it.

    3

    Spray the dog poop with water. Another way to get rid of dog poop is to simply spray it down. Enough water hitting it long enough will break the poop up. The great thing about this is you can multi-task watering your grass and picking up dog poop.

    4

    Cut the grass. This won't work for an every day pick up, but it will save you having to comb the yard occasionally. Cutting the grass is a great way to get rid of dog poop. Plus it breaks it down, so you get a free fertilizer for your grass.

    5

    Hire someone. If you really hate picking up dog poop and have some extra money, you can hire companies to take care of the dirty work for you.

    6

    Dig a hole. If you are looking for a free great fertilizer, simply dig a hole and put the dog poop there. Plant flowers in the hole and see how great they look.


All dog owners love their dogs. They provide companionship, love and protection. They also provide us with a lot of dog poop. Dog poop contains lots of bacteria along with harboring worms. For these reasons there are community guidelines and city ordinances requiring people to get rid of dog poop. Luckily there are many ways to get rid of it.

Instructions

    1

    Carry a plastic bag and a towels. If you are taking your dog for a walk at a community park or live in an apartment complex, this is going to be your best choice. Bags allow you to quickly get rid of the mess. If you don't want to chance getting your hands dirty, there are products that allow you to pick up the poop without using your hands. If you are on the go, you may want to consider purchasing a device that attaches to your keychain or can stay in your purse that holds disposal bags.

    2

    Use a pooper scooper if you don't have to pick it up immediately. Pooper scoopers are a great way of getting rid of dog poop. These have long arms so you don't have to bend down to pick it up. You also can hold the dog poop over a trash can and avoid ever having to touch it.

    3

    Spray the dog poop with water. Another way to get rid of dog poop is to simply spray it down. Enough water hitting it long enough will break the poop up. The great thing about this is you can multi-task watering your grass and picking up dog poop.

    4

    Cut the grass. This won't work for an every day pick up, but it will save you having to comb the yard occasionally. Cutting the grass is a great way to get rid of dog poop. Plus it breaks it down, so you get a free fertilizer for your grass.

    5

    Hire someone. If you really hate picking up dog poop and have some extra money, you can hire companies to take care of the dirty work for you.

    6

    Dig a hole. If you are looking for a free great fertilizer, simply dig a hole and put the dog poop there. Plant flowers in the hole and see how great they look.

Friday, August 9, 2013

How to Build a Mandolin

How to Build a Mandolin

Building a mandolin is a great project for the woodworker who is musically inclined or the musician who has woodworking skills. An octave mandolin is a simple and beautiful instrument. Here's how to build it and start enjoying the wonderful sound of mandolin music.

Instructions

    1

    Decide if you want to make a mandolin from plans or a kit. Buying a kit makes your first attempts at mandolin building easier. A beautiful octave mandolin kit can be found at donkawalek.com. You can also find plans to build your own from scratch.

    2

    Build the form. If you buy a kit, this may be done for you. Tenon the head and neck together using a tenoning jig on your table saw. Use plywood for the form and a higher grade wood for the real parts of the mandolin. Print and apply the plan directly to the wood and cut accordingly to acquire the teardrop shape for the form. Apply the tail block and carve it according to your mandolin plans. Carve out the shape of the head block using the wood rasp.

    3

    Bend the sides of the octave mandolin using a steam bending method. Make sure your sides are exactly the right thickness before bending, unless your sides came pre-cut with your kit. Soak the wood in water. Use your steam bending apparatus to bend the sides according to the plans. Attach bent sides to the form with rubber clamps and let them cool and dry. Sand smooth.

    4

    Make the neck. Cut the neck from the plans using a band saw. If you've purchased a kit, this step might be done for you. Glue the ears to the neck using wood glue and clamps. Sand the top and bottom of the ear faces smooth. Glue the templates for the head and cut according to the plans for the mandolin. Sand the head.

    5

    Join the neck and rim together. Using wood glue or epoxy, join the head, tail blocks and rim together around the form. Use rubber clamps or a band to secure the rim and neck during drying. Carve the neck, using wood files and rasps. Join neck to rim with wood glue and clamp in place. Apply the kerfed lining to the rim with wood glue and clothespins.

    6

    Cut and attach the top and bottom. Rough cut the top and bottom, then use the plan as a template for exact cutting. Mark the placement of the bracing on top and back pieces. Drill a small hole where the sound holes will be in the front. Using a coping saw, cut the sound holes. Finish the holes with wood files. Glue bracing onto the top and bottom, clamp and let it dry. Carve the bracing to plan specifications. Glue the top and bottom to the rim, clamp and let dry.

    7

    Finish your mandolin. Cut and attach the fret board using copper wire through small drilled holes in the neck and fret slots. Finish any carving with rasps and files as necessary. Apply stain and clear coat to the body. Install the tuners on the head following the manufacturers directions and install the tailpiece system according to your mandolin plans. Cover fret board holes with frets and string your octave mandolin. Now it's ready to play.


How to Build a Mandolin

Building a mandolin is a great project for the woodworker who is musically inclined or the musician who has woodworking skills. An octave mandolin is a simple and beautiful instrument. Here's how to build it and start enjoying the wonderful sound of mandolin music.

Instructions

    1

    Decide if you want to make a mandolin from plans or a kit. Buying a kit makes your first attempts at mandolin building easier.

    >>> I recommend thisTrick Photography And Special Effects E-bookfor whoever love photography world. A MUST HAVE!! <<<

    . A beautiful octave mandolin kit can be found at donkawalek.com. You can also find plans to build your own from scratch.

    2

    Build the form. If you buy a kit, this may be done for you. Tenon the head and neck together using a tenoning jig on your table saw. Use plywood for the form and a higher grade wood for the real parts of the mandolin. Print and apply the plan directly to the wood and cut accordingly to acquire the teardrop shape for the form. Apply the tail block and carve it according to your mandolin plans. Carve out the shape of the head block using the wood rasp.

    3

    Bend the sides of the octave mandolin using a steam bending method. Make sure your sides are exactly the right thickness before bending, unless your sides came pre-cut with your kit. Soak the wood in water. Use your steam bending apparatus to bend the sides according to the plans. Attach bent sides to the form with rubber clamps and let them cool and dry. Sand smooth.

    4

    Make the neck. Cut the neck from the plans using a band saw. If you've purchased a kit, this step might be done for you. Glue the ears to the neck using wood glue and clamps. Sand the top and bottom of the ear faces smooth. Glue the templates for the head and cut according to the plans for the mandolin. Sand the head.

    5

    Join the neck and rim together. Using wood glue or epoxy, join the head, tail blocks and rim together around the form. Use rubber clamps or a band to secure the rim and neck during drying. Carve the neck, using wood files and rasps. Join neck to rim with wood glue and clamp in place. Apply the kerfed lining to the rim with wood glue and clothespins.

    6

    Cut and attach the top and bottom. Rough cut the top and bottom, then use the plan as a template for exact cutting. Mark the placement of the bracing on top and back pieces. Drill a small hole where the sound holes will be in the front. Using a coping saw, cut the sound holes. Finish the holes with wood files. Glue bracing onto the top and bottom, clamp and let it dry. Carve the bracing to plan specifications. Glue the top and bottom to the rim, clamp and let dry.

    7

    Finish your mandolin. Cut and attach the fret board using copper wire through small drilled holes in the neck and fret slots. Finish any carving with rasps and files as necessary. Apply stain and clear coat to the body. Install the tuners on the head following the manufacturers directions and install the tailpiece system according to your mandolin plans. Cover fret board holes with frets and string your octave mandolin. Now it's ready to play.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

How to Troubleshoot an Ice Cream Maker

Is your homemade ice cream soupy even though it's been in the freezer for hours? Before you dispose of your ice cream maker, you might want to troubleshoot and see if you can fix the problem yourself.

Instructions

    1

    Use your cylinder bowl correctly. If the cylinder isn't handled properly, your ice cream won't set. Make sure it is dried completely after washing so ice doesn't form on the walls, make sure to leave it in the freezer overnight before making ice cream and don't leave the bowl out at room temperature before using.

    2

    Check your freezer door. If it isn't sealed properly, or if it's constantly being opened during the freezing process, your ice cream can't set properly.

    3

    Handle the ingredients correctly. Don't let the ingredients warm and don't overfill the bowl. Check the manufacturers recommendations for the maximum bowl capacity.

    4

    Clean and dry your machine thoroughly. Use a damp cloth on the motor assembly; never immerse. Make sure to wash the lid, blade and cylinder according to directions and make sure the cylinder is absolutely dry before freezing.

    5

    Contact the manufacturer's support site only after you have exhausted your options. They may walk you back through the steps you've already taken, but at best your problem will get fixed far more quickly because you eliminated the easy problems in advance.


Is your homemade ice cream soupy even though it's been in the freezer for hours? Before you dispose of your ice cream maker, you might want to troubleshoot and see if you can fix the problem yourself.

Instructions

    1

    Use your cylinder bowl correctly. If the cylinder isn't handled properly, your ice cream won't set. Make sure it is dried completely after washing so ice doesn't form on the walls, make sure to leave it in the freezer overnight before making ice cream and don't leave the bowl out at room temperature before using.

    2

    Check your freezer door. If it isn't sealed properly, or if it's constantly being opened during the freezing process, your ice cream can't set properly.

    3

    Handle the ingredients correctly. Don't let the ingredients warm and don't overfill the bowl. Check the manufacturers recommendations for the maximum bowl capacity.

    4

    Clean and dry your machine thoroughly. Use a damp cloth on the motor assembly; never immerse. Make sure to wash the lid, blade and cylinder according to directions and make sure the cylinder is absolutely dry before freezing.

    5

    Contact the manufacturer's support site only after you have exhausted your options. They may walk you back through the steps you've already taken, but at best your problem will get fixed far more quickly because you eliminated the easy problems in advance.