Marble’s use has evolved beyond just countertops. Joanna Gaines, renowned for her transformative designs on HGTV, offers a compelling tip for integrating marble into your bathroom renovation. Known for a pristine all-white aesthetic, Gaines often opts for Carrara marble in her bathroom designs. The key, however, isn’t solely the choice of marble but its strategic application. While using marble throughout your bathroom can risk a monotonous look, Gaines suggests incorporating varied patterns and hues for the floors, walls, shower, and countertops. This approach ensures a space that exudes timeless elegance while maintaining visual intrigue.

A prime example of this technique is showcased in the master bathroom on “Fixer Upper: The Castle.” Gaines skillfully blends different marble patterns to create dynamic appeal — utilizing a hexagonal pattern on the floor, a blue-and-white mosaic behind the sink, and 6-by-12-inch marble panels on the walls. This method is a valuable consideration for bathroom renovations, offering a way to harmonize the classic allure of marble with captivating visual patterns.

Mix tile patterns throughout your bathroom design

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Household chores can sometimes feel endless. There’s always another surface to wipe down, another dish to clean, and another batch of laundry to manage. The task becomes even more daunting if your family has accumulated stains from daily activities like meal preparation or outdoor play.

It’s not surprising that people often resort to strong, modern cleaning products, which can have significant effects on both the skin and the environment. For instance, nonylphenol ethoxylates found in some detergents can harm aquatic ecosystems. If you are looking for a nontoxic way to remove stains from your clothes, natural cleaners such as glycerin might be the solution your laundry needs. Stains occur when molecules from water- or oil-based substances become embedded in fabric fibers. It’s best to address a stain promptly by blotting it with cold water and avoiding heat sources like a dryer, which can set the stain. 

Glycerin, a sugar alcohol compound that aids in carbohydrate metabolism, is water-soluble, allowing it to lubricate stains and help break down dried, set-in marks. This property is particularly effective for water-based stains such as coffee, cola, milk, or ink. Simple Nature vegetable-based glycerin, available online, is a natural option. The Smithsonian Museum Conservation Institute even recommends it for stain removal. Ensure that you use glycerin derived naturally from plants or animals, rather than petroleum-based sources.

Recipes for Stain-Removing Solutions Using Glycerin

Your approach to using glycerin may vary depending on the type of stains you are trying to remove. For instance, for cola or wine stains, apply glycerin and then rinse it out with water. Follow this with white vinegar (a common laundry stain remover) and diluted shampoo. This method can also be effective for ink stains, provided you first treat the area with a solvent like acetone or ethanol.

For a general laundry stain-removal spray, mix ¼ cup of phosphate-free detergent with ¼ cup of glycerin and 1½ cups of water for a simple three-ingredient solution. However, avoid using this mixture (or warm or hot water) on sugar-heavy stains.

Glycerin is versatile and can be used beyond clothing stain removal. Combine one part glycerin, one part dishwashing detergent, and eight parts water for a solution that can be lightly applied to carpets made from natural, synthetic, blended fibers, or wool. Use an absorbent pad to apply light pressure on the stain, then clean the area with a cold water sponge. This mixture can also clean upholstered furniture fabrics, including fiberglass. Unlike detergents, washing with glycerin can reinforce your skin’s barrier, offering protection from diseases. It’s worth trying this natural substance for your clothes and other fabrics around the house.

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Pallets are an excellent resource for creating a variety of practical, budget-friendly items for your home and garden. One of the top beginner-friendly wood pallet DIY projects is crafting a custom workbench for your garage. Let’s explore how to do this.

I’m Onions Australia’s expert carpenter and remodeler. Over the years, I’ve had several workbenches, so I have a solid understanding of the essential features. Although I now have an extensive toolkit, I remember when I didn’t. Therefore, I’ll keep this simple, using minimal tools. If you’ve done even a bit of home improvement, you likely already own most, if not all, of them.

For the basic DIY pallet workbench, you’ll need a hammer, a drill/driver, a saw, a tape measure, a straightedge, and a pencil. A circular saw or jigsaw will make things easier, but a hand saw will suffice. A sander would be beneficial, but a sheet of sandpaper wrapped around a scrap block of wood will work. Gather some 1-½ inch wood screws (or similar size). Also, check out local spots for free pallets, or repurpose old wood pallets you may already have. For a deluxe version, you’ll need a sheet of 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch plywood or MDF and some heavy-duty casters, like the Ashgoob 3-inch Castor Wheel Set.

Building the custom wood pallet garage workbench

Our custom workbench requires four pallets. Since pallets can be quite worn, choose ones in decent condition when collecting old ones for reuse. They can be repaired, but ideally, it shouldn’t be necessary. If the pallets at one location are in poor shape, look elsewhere; there should be plenty available.

Once you have your pallets, ensure there are no exposed nail heads. If present, hammer them in to avoid injury while working. Set aside the pallet with the best top surface for your benchtop.

To create the two sides, remove all the boards on one side of the pallet between the end and middle support blocks. Measure the thickness of your benchtop pallet and mark that distance on the sides opposite the removed boards. Measure from the edge back towards the middle and saw through the remaining boards. You should have an “L” shape. Position the sides vertically with the remaining blocks at the bottom, facing inwards. Place the final pallet between them on top of those blocks, then position your benchtop pallet across the middle blocks. The top should align with the top of the “L.” Secure with three equally spaced screws through the sides into each block of the horizontal pallets. Voila! You have a sturdy workbench for your garage. Sand any rough edges to prevent splinters.

A few extras to make your custom workbench even more useful

Enhance the DIY pallet workbench with a few additions. It offers great strength but isn’t easily movable. Attach heavy-duty casters to each corner to solve this. Opt for those with a built-in foot brake so it remains stationary while working yet can be easily moved from the garage to the yard.

A solid top is preferable to slats, so cut a piece of plywood or MDF to size and secure it with screws at the corners. MDF is typically cheaper and smoother, though not as durable as plywood. Either way, consider the top sacrificial: when worn, simply replace it.

Add tool and accessory pockets to the workbench ends for a final upgrade. Use offcuts or another pallet if needed. Cut pieces to length, then screw the edges together to form an “L.” Decide on the number of dividers, cut and screw them in place, and add ends. Avoid screwing on the front initially, as it complicates attachment to the bench. Attach the back of the “L” to the workbench end, then add the front. Now, you’re ready to tackle unique small wood pallet projects for your home and garden.

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If you’re looking to embrace the eclectic floral arrangement trend or simply wish to adorn your space with fresh blooms, a vase is essential. Transform a budget-friendly Dollar Tree vase into a masterpiece using paint pouring. This technique not only utilizes leftover bits of acrylic paint that might otherwise be discarded but also supports sustainability and helps maximize your home decor budget.

To begin, select a vase you want to enhance. A vase with a smooth surface, like Dollar Tree’s Clear Round Glass Floral Container, is ideal. Pour various acrylic paint colors into a cup. If you possess small amounts of multiple colors, you might be able to use them all. No leftover paints? Consider buying new ones; the Martha Stewart 12-Piece Spring Blooms Set is user-friendly on materials such as glass, ceramic, and terracotta.

Gently swirl the paints in the cup, stopping if they begin to muddle. To ensure smooth paint flow, mix in an equal amount of Flood FLD6 Floetrol Additive. Protect your workspace with newspaper and position your vase upside down on a plate to catch excess paint. Alternatively, capture the overflow on a small, stretched canvas to create abstract art. Elevate the vase with a plastic cup inserted at its center, allowing paint to cover the entire exterior. After preparation, it’s time for the fun part: pouring the paint.

Upgrading a Vase with Paint Pouring

Optionally, wear latex or vinyl gloves and pick up your paint mixture. Slowly pour it over the vase’s base, forming delicate rings. Let the paint cascade down the sides until fully covered. Using multiple paint shades will likely result in a marbled effect. Once the vase is completely coated, stop pouring and let the paint dry thoroughly. Apply a sealant like Teexpert Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin to prevent cracking and flaking over time.

This paint pouring technique is versatile and can enhance other objects. Consider repurposing glass items as stunning flower vases using this method. Elevate a mason jar or wine bottle to hold a bouquet, or give a ceramic lamp base a fresh look. Additionally, transform smooth, round Christmas ornaments into eye-catching pieces. The Creative Hobbies 25-pack of Round Clear Plastic Ball Ornaments is one of many options, perfect for experimenting with DIY marbled vases.

During winter, you might find yourself needing a bit of extra warmth. A space heater can be the perfect solution, especially for smaller areas ranging from 150 to 200 square feet. While there are certain space heaters that require careful consideration before purchasing, there are also excellent models that offer more than just warmth, particularly in your home office. However, many people make mistakes when purchasing a new space heater, preventing them from fully enjoying these benefits.

Before purchasing a space heater, it’s crucial to understand how the space you intend to heat affects your energy bill and why the heater’s placement is vital if energy efficiency matters to you. For example, a small space heater is ideal for spot heating, whereas a larger one is better suited for a whole room, but you may not need something powerful enough to heat an entire floor. Those seeking the cheapest upfront option might overlook advanced technology that saves money over time and offers safer alternatives. Let’s delve into common mistakes made when buying space heaters to help you make the best decision.

Buying a space heater that isn’t energy efficient

Remember, electricity is more expensive than natural gas, and a typical space heater uses 1,500 watts at its highest setting, equating to around $50 monthly if used for eight hours daily over 30 days. Nevertheless, using your space heater sparingly in a compact, enclosed area can still consume less energy than turning on your boiler to heat the entire house or attempting to heat a large area with just your space heater. This is a common mistake to avoid, as it represents a significant missed opportunity to save on your energy bill.

Space heaters with smart technology can automatically adjust settings based on room temperature, potentially reducing energy consumption by up to 50%. Although having an EnergyStar rating would simplify this, space heaters aren’t currently part of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) certification program. However, if you’re seeking a cost-effective space heater to lower energy expenses, Onions Australia has you covered.

If you’re uncertain about finding an energy-efficient space heater, consider models with Eco-modes, timer systems, mobility for easy relocation, and programmable thermostats to adjust heat levels and manage energy usage effectively.

Not buying a space heater that uses smart technology

A 2022 study by the National Fire Protection Association revealed that space heaters are the leading cause of home fires among heating equipment, with loss of life and injuries accounting for 88% and 80%, respectively. A space heater with smart technology should not only manage energy usage but also feature a timer system for convenience.

While basic safety measures, like not leaving the heater on overnight or placing it near flammable items, are essential, a heater that automatically shuts off when overheating simplifies life. Similarly, a space heater that can be set to turn off after an hour, like the De’Longhi Dragon Oil Filled Radiator Heater, which also has an eco function to regulate temperature and energy use, offers extra peace of mind if you forget to turn it off before leaving the house or taking a nap.

If your space heater lacks a timer, consider using a smart plug-in to schedule shut-off times via an app. Plug-ins are typically safe for up to 15 amps or 1,800 watts.

If you own a top-loading washing machine, you are part of the majority who prefer this type of appliance over front-loading models. While there are many factors to consider when choosing between front-load and top-load washers, top-loading machines generally have fewer maintenance issues. Most modern top-loading washers do not have filters, but there are still important maintenance tasks to keep your appliance running smoothly.

Older top-loading washing machines made before 2001 may have filters that need regular cleaning to prevent issues with the pumping system. Newer models, however, typically do not have filters and are designed with larger drain holes to prevent clogs. Some post-2001 models may have removable lint filters, so it’s important to check your specific machine’s manual for maintenance instructions. If you’re unsure, contact the manufacturer for guidance.

Tips for cleaning a top-loading washing machine and locating any filters

Older top-loading washers may have filters that require regular cleaning. You can check if your machine has a filter by looking under the agitator in the center of the drum. If you find a filter, remove and rinse it before reinstalling it. Newer machines usually do not have filters, but it’s still important to perform routine maintenance to prolong the appliance’s lifespan. Consider deep cleaning your washer every six months using commercial cleaners or DIY solutions like vinegar and baking soda. Remember to dry the machine and any removable parts thoroughly after cleaning.

Kitchen cabinet doors endure a significant amount of use over time. If you consider the frequency with which a cabinet door is opened and closed throughout its lifespan, it becomes apparent why their durability is commendable. However, it’s not unusual for cabinet doors to become misaligned, causing homeowners to second-guess their choice of even the most classic cabinet designs. So, why does this misalignment occur, and can it be resolved, or are you left without options?

For those with newer cabinets equipped with cup hinges, commonly known as Euro hinges, the answer is almost always yes—you can fix the misalignment. It’s important to note that my advice pertains specifically to these cup hinges, which are widely used. If your cabinets have a different hinge type, these tips may not be applicable.

Understanding the types of misalignment your cabinet doors might experience can help you address them effectively. Firstly, check if the back of the cabinet door is flush with the cabinet box and equidistant from the box along its perimeter. Secondly, ensure all doors are adjusted to the same height and align across their tops. Lastly, check for an even reveal—the intentional space between door edges. Fortunately, all these alignment issues can be corrected using the adjustments available in cup hinges.

What is a cup or Euro hinge, and do you have one?

After WWII, as Europe rebuilt its industrial sector, the 32mm cabinetry system was developed. This system incorporated rows of pre-drilled 32mm holes along the panels’ front and back edges, standardizing box sizes, hardware styles, and mounting systems for more efficient cabinet making. It also facilitated the creation of frameless cabinets—those without traditional face frames. Traditional barrel or leaf hinges, which attached to the face frame, were unsuitable, leading to the development of cup hinges, also known as Euro hinges.

Cup hinges were a significant departure from previous designs. They consist of a hinge cup, hinge arm, and mounting plate. The hinge cup is installed in the door by drilling a 35mm (or sometimes 26mm) hole and securing it with screws. The mounting plate is attached to the cabinet box, with holes spaced 32mm apart to fit the pre-drilled panel holes.

Though initially designed for the 32mm system, cup hinges soon became popular for frameless cabinets in the US due to their distinctive appearance. If your hinges resemble the ones in the image above, you’re dealing with cup hinges. Their adjustability has greatly contributed to their prevalence in modern cabinetry.

Here’s how you adjust cup hinges on your cabinets

Once you’ve identified your cup hinges, it’s time to explore their adjustment options: up and down, planar adjustment, and side to side. All adjustments require a screwdriver. Begin with the “up and down” adjustment by loosening the screws on the mounting plate attached to the drawer box by about half a turn. Do this for all hinges on the door. When loose, you can raise or lower the door slightly. Adjust the door to the desired position, then tighten the screws.

For planar adjustments, locate the screw at the back of the hinge arm, nearest to the cabinet’s back. Turning this screw moves the door forward or backward relative to the cabinet box. Adjust all hinges on the door, tweaking each screw incrementally if there are more than two hinges.

Finally, to adjust the reveal between doors or the alignment of the door’s outer edge with the cabinet’s edge (for full overlay doors), turn the screw at the front of the hinge arm. And there you have it—the versatility of cup hinges in action!

Before we wrap up, there are a few additional details about cup hinges you should know

You might think there are no screws on the hinge arm, but that’s not the case! Often, existing cabinets have a decorative clip covering the screws on the hinge arm. Remove the clip to access the screws.

While adjusting, if a screw turns without effect, you may need to replace the hinge. Finding a matching hinge can be challenging, but specialty woodworking stores or websites are good resources. Fortunately, hinge failure is rare.

Additionally, modern cup hinges offer features like soft-close or self-closing mechanisms. With some research, you can upgrade your existing hinges to these advanced models, which are particularly useful in homes with teenagers. If you’re considering replacing barrel or leaf hinges with cup hinges, know that the task is substantial and may require replacing some cabinet door styles. However, the upgrade can be worthwhile.

Modern homes often feature plain walls and lack the architectural elements like paneling, crown molding, and millwork that are common in historic buildings. However, there’s a growing demand for these details, prompting many to seek cost-effective and simple methods to enhance the visual appeal of otherwise dull walls. By incorporating decorative trim into these architectural features, you can elevate the appearance, giving any room a personalized, luxurious feel.

One decorative trim gaining popularity is bobbin trim. This beaded wood trim, made of half rounds, resembles a string of pearls and is both delicate and versatile. Bobbin trim can enhance anything from large walls to small picture frames. Although it has existed for centuries, it seamlessly fits into modern styles like farmhouse, cottagecore, grandmillennial, and more. You can maintain its natural look for a Scandinavian vibe or opt for a maximalist approach with gold or brightly-colored paint. Adding bobbin trim to your walls is a simple DIY project that doesn’t require heavy tools. You’ll need trim, strong shears like the TOWOT Angle Miter Shears, wood/construction adhesive, and paint (if desired).

How (and where) to add bobbin trim to walls

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Garage floors are often overlooked, yet maintaining them is crucial for your home. While a neglected garage door might affect your home’s resale value, it’s futile to upgrade it if the floor behind it is in poor condition. Revitalizing a worn and cracked floor is one of the best improvements for your garage. Thanks to modern finishing technology, you can DIY the job and achieve a fresh, speckled finish that looks professionally done.

One important decision is choosing the right product for your garage floor upgrade. Epoxy floor coatings, as demonstrated in an informative video by @studio_adash, are very popular. They are durable, affordable, and DIY-friendly. Available in various colors, they can be plain or include decorative chips, with an option for anti-skid additives. Following the video’s suggestions, let’s explore the process of rejuvenating your tired garage floor in detail.

Preparing to Upgrade a Garage Floor with Epoxy Coating

There are numerous reasons to upgrade your garage floor, with many DIY epoxy coating kits available. To ensure durability and prevent future issues, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Check the coverage, as this affects the overall cost. Rust-Oleum EpoxyShield, for instance, has received positive reviews, with a 2-gallon kit covering 450 to 500 square feet for under $200, making it a competitive option.

Although steps may vary, DIYing your garage floor usually follows a similar procedure. For bare concrete, start by thoroughly cleaning and degreasing it. Use a product specifically designed to remove oil and grease from concrete, as shown in the video with a steel brush. Next, fill any cracks or holes with available concrete patch products, some ready-to-use. Depending on the epoxy finish, you may need to etch (as shown in the video) or prime the surface.

If your garage floor is painted or tiled, check product suitability before purchase. Some require grinding off the existing surface, while others can be applied with a primer. It’s generally advisable to use a primer from the same brand as the epoxy to avoid adhesion or compatibility issues.

Applying Epoxy Coating to Your Garage Floor

Most garage epoxy kits come in two parts to be mixed before use. Following the manufacturer’s instructions is crucial at this stage. Once the mixture is ready, pour it into a paint tray and begin the application.

The video creators start by trimming the garage with a paintbrush for tight areas, then use a long-handled roller for most of the floor due to its speed and ease. Speed is essential as epoxy has a limited pot life once mixed. It’s usually recommended to work on manageable areas, like 4-foot by 4-foot sections, rather than coating the entire garage floor at once, especially if adding decorative flakes for the professional high-shine look demonstrated.

Some epoxy garage floor coatings require only one coat, while others suggest an additional top coat for durability, as seen with @studio_adash. Ensure the first coat dries completely before applying the top coat to avoid ruining the job. Typically, it takes a day or two before you can walk on the surface and three days to a week before driving on it. Whether your garage is for vehicles and storage or you’re planning to transform it into a fun and functional room, following these steps will ensure the floor is durable, attractive, and easy to maintain. The effort is well worth it.

Vinyl flooring is a favored option for homeowners seeking the aesthetic of hardwood at a more affordable price, while still benefiting from a durable surface. If your vinyl flooring was installed several years ago or was already in place when you moved in, you might be questioning the need for new floors. In homes with high traffic from kids or pets, vinyl can generally endure significant use but will eventually exhibit signs of wear. Typically, vinyl flooring lasts between 10 to 25 years, though this can vary based on brand and installation quality. Age alone isn’t the sole indicator for floor replacement; other warning signs may also suggest it’s time for a change. You should consider replacing your vinyl when you notice alterations in its appearance or signs of water damage. Additionally, if the floor makes noises when walked on, it might be time to consider a replacement.

Although vinyl flooring doesn’t last indefinitely, regular maintenance and care can extend its lifespan. For example, you can limit the movement of heavy furniture and add soft rugs to protect against constant foot traffic. Promptly removing scuffs and quickly mopping up water spots are also effective ways to preserve your floor. However, despite your best efforts, you may eventually encounter unmistakable signs indicating it’s time to replace your vinyl floors.

Knowing when to replace your vinyl floors

It’s advisable to annually inspect your vinyl floors for signs of wear, such as scratches, cracks, or dents in the planks. Even without visible damage, your vinyl flooring might appear faded or discolored due to age or prolonged exposure to UV rays. Such noticeable changes in its appearance suggest that floor replacement should be considered. These imperfections are not only unattractive but may also compromise the floor’s protective layer, making it more vulnerable to scratches and other issues.

Water damage is a particularly concerning issue. Water can stain or warp your vinyl floors and, if it penetrates beneath, can lead to mold and mildew growth. Do you notice bumps or loose planks? The adhesive might have deteriorated, causing the flooring to detach from the subfloor, possibly due to water exposure. Replacing this area promptly is crucial, as it poses a tripping hazard. Run your hand over the surface to detect any subtle changes, like small ridges or bubbling, indicating damage.

Even seemingly minor issues, like your flooring emitting noises such as cracks, squeaks, or creaks, may signal the need for replacement. These sounds can indicate that the floor or underlying materials are deteriorating. Loose or misaligned planks may also be present.

How maintenance extends vinyl flooring lifespan

Vinyl floors are appealing and require less intensive maintenance than hardwood floors, while still providing a similar elegant look. The lifespan of your floor depends on installation and usage, but proper maintenance is also crucial for achieving the 10-year mark or beyond. Protection is another important aspect of care, as furniture and other items can eventually damage the floor, leaving gouges. Use items like floor coasters or felt pads to minimize pressure.

Once protection measures are in place, maintain the floor’s appearance with gentle cleaning. These methods not only preserve the floor’s look but also prevent the buildup of dirt, crumbs, dust, and debris that can scratch the vinyl surface. Daily cleaning tasks, such as sweeping or vacuuming (using the hard floor setting only) to remove crumbs or dirt, help avoid further damage.

For deeper maintenance, avoid using abrasive chemicals or hardwood cleaners not specifically designed for vinyl floors. Refrain from using wax or ammonia, even on very dirty floors. Instead, use a soft mop with a light water coat. You can also make a cleaning solution with 1 cup of white vinegar and 1 gallon of hot water. Be cautious not to saturate the surface, as excess moisture can damage the floor, even those made of waterproof vinyl. Moisture seeping under the planks can cause shifting and swelling.