How to Start a Fire in a Fire Pit

Whether your fire pit is a means of cooking outdoors or simply provides diversion, many people enjoy passing an evening sitting around a crackling fire in a fire pit. Keep safety precautions a priority as you build your fire to avoid unnecessary and potentially serious injuries. The process of starting a fire in a fire pit is straightforward. Once you know the basics of laying a fire and keeping it burning, your fire will blaze merrily. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Collect the tinder, kindling and fuel you will need for your fire. Examples of tinder include newspapers, dry pine needles and straw. Kindling generally consists of thin sticks or twigs. Fuel is the larger firewood that will keep the fire burning---it must be dry (old wood) and not green to burn well in a fire, however. You will need approximately one armful each of tinder and kindling and enough fuel to keep the fire burning as long as you desire. One substantial dry log may burn for 45 minutes on average.

2

Lay the fire, beginning with the tinder first. Lay one or two handfuls of tinder down in the center of the fire pit. Place four or five pieces of kindling over the tinder in a teepee fashion (arranging the sticks around the tinder with the sticks meeting in the center above the tinder).

3

Light a match and light the tinder. Watch as the flames from the tinder reach up to the kindling and start the kindling on fire.

4

Add the smallest pieces of fuel to the fire after the kindling is burning. Carefully place the fuel onto the fire over the kindling. Expect the kindling to collapse over the tinder---this will create hot embers to keep the fire burning.

5

Add additional pieces of fuel as the smaller pieces of fuel burn up. If flames begin to wane, add additional tinder and kindling to keep flames sufficient around the fuel until the fuel catches fire.

6

Watch the fire at all times to ensure everyone's safety and ensure it continues to burn satisfactorily. If the fire wanes, add more kindling and fuel. If the fire grows larger than you desire, let it die down without adding any additional fuel until it is smaller.

7

Allow the fire to burn down naturally starting approximately one hour before you want to put it out. Stop adding fuel to the fire at this time. Smother the fire with sand or dirt when only embers remain.

What Is a Router Table?

A router table is the part of a computer router that stores the information that gets sent to the different nodes of the computer network. These are necessary to keep the connection of the router with the network. The router table is stored either in the router itself or on one of the computers in the network as a file or database. The router table keeps the different routes mapped to the network, and when the router is in use, the table is consulted to find the best route to the Internet.

Features

The main feature of a router table is a database of information. The database stores all the ways that a router can connect to a network. When the router is in use the router reads the table and figures out the best way for the router to connect to the network or internet. Larger networks often have multiple router tables which categorize the different routes and nodes necessary to connect to the network. Small networks can be routed manually, but most networks require the use of a router table.

Function

The main function of a router table is to arrange the data in a computer network so that the router can connect to the network in the best possible and most efficient way possible. The reason that a router table is used is so that the network does not have to look for the best connection every time. This makes the connection time much faster, and eliminates a lot of waiting time and helps keep different networks in line.

Significance

Router tables are important for connection speed of various networks. One of the main purposes of a router table is to keep the connection pathways stored in the computer so that the router does not have to search for new connections every time. The database stored in the router table helps keep connection times down to several seconds, rather than several minutes or more. This is very important for networks that see a lot of use.

Benefits

The main benefit to a router table is the benefit of speed. Keeping the connection pathways stored in the router or on the computer helps the network run a lot more smoothly. Without the router table, the different nodes would get lost and they would have to be found by hand which would take several hours a day. Without a router table, a network connected wirelessly would not work.

Considerations

Since the router tables are so important to a network's connections, it is likely that they will continue to improve in the next few years. Connection speeds are always increasing, and this is partially due to the better router tables and database storage functions. Larger networks require larger router tables, which will also improve over the next few years. In the future, it might be possible to connect to any network from anywhere. This will make file sharing and other network tasks much easier.

Dining Tables That Can Double as Desks

"When I was transferred back to California, I went from 2,500 square feet to 1,000 square feet," says a contributor to HGTV's "Rate My Space" website. HGTV offers many helpful tips for adapting to smaller living spaces, such as making your furniture do double duty. For example, transform your dining table into a work space by having it do double duty as a desk. Design, durability, table surface and size are all important factors in selecting the right table. Does this Spark an idea?

Table Design

Smooth, rectangular surfaces work best for a dining table that will also serve as a desk. The table height required for seated office work is different from that required for eating, however. Consider purchasing a table with tubular legs that allow you to adjust its height. You can also fashion a desk from a drop-leaf table by raising one or both of its leaves to create a work space. Yet another option is a rectangular table with hidden pull-out leaves at each end that can expand the tabletop into a dining table.

Table Surface

Extra wear and tear is an important consideration when a dining table does double duty as a work space. The tabletop must be durable enough to withstand the weight of a computer and desk paraphernalia. Although expensive, marble is durable and has a protective coating that resists wine and coffee spills. Another option is a table with a glass top. The Double X ClassiCon glass-topped table with an X-shaped frame provides maximum support and stability. Chipping and fingerprints are a problem with glass surfaces, though. For both glass and finer wood surfaces, consider using a desk blotter.

Size

If you have a formal dining room, you may have a larger table that not only can seat six to eight but also function as a work space, especially if the dining room is underused. Select a dining table with drawers beneath the tabletop for storing office supplies. In smaller spaces, opt for a drop-leaf table. "Apartment Therapy" offers a drop-leaf table called a "disguised desk" that can accommodate four to six people when the sides are lifted.

How to Put a Lamp on a Console Table Without Nearby Electricity

Table lamps are decorative and functional accessories for any room in your home. They come in a multitude of colors, sizes and styles, and provide varying amounts of light. Depending on the layout of your home and furniture, available electrical outlets might be too far away from your console tables to provide power to any lamps placed thereupon. Fortunately, there are several options for enjoying a lamp on a console table without nearby electricity. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Plug your lamp into an extension cord and run the cord to the nearest electrical outlet. Find a convenient path from the cord to the wall; the cord should cross the least amount of open floor to prevent tripping people. Install an electrical cord cover on top of the loose cord and secure it to your floor to minimize the cord's visibility and enhance safety. Cord covers are available at most hardware retailers and major wholesale outlets, and come in a variety of colors and textures to match almost any floor.

2

Purchase a lamp that uses candles or batteries instead of electricity as its energy source. Install appropriately sized candles or batteries in your lamp. You can also power a candle-based lamp on LED candles, which are fake candles that run on batteries.

3

Purchase a DC-to-AC power inverter and the compatible batteries, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and use of the inverter. Plug the lamp into the inverter; it will power the lamp with batteries.

How to Set Up Your Computer Workstation

Setting up a computer workstation properly entails much more than maintaining an aesthetically pleasing work environment. Positioning your computer, accessories, work surface, chair and light source well helps to keep you in good posture as you use the computer. Following a few simple but important guidelines for workstation setup can preserve your health, particularly if you spend long hours in front of the computer.

Instructions

1

Set up the height of your desk or table so the work surface lets you keep your elbows at a 90-degree angle with your forearms parallel to the floor.

2

Tilt the seat of your chair so you can type comfortably. The tilt may be perfectly horizontal or slightly forward. Make sure this situation allows your feet to be at 90 degrees flexion or greater. Incorporate a footrest if necessary.

3

Place your keyboard on the work surface so your hands align with your forearm and your wrists are straight.

4

Set up your monitors screen so it is below eye level and at a comfortable distance. Consider this distance to be within arms length. Make sure you can read the bottom of the screen without titling your head much, if at all.

5

Keep your monitor to the side of your light source, as opposed to directly underneath it. Set up your workstation so your eyes are at a 45-degree angle from the light source. Align your desk so it is parallel with fluorescent strip lights. Keep your monitor away from windows. Turn the monitor so neither you nor your screen faces the window.

Tips to How to Build Your Own Propane Fire Pit

On cool summer and fall evenings, fire pits allow homeowners to enjoy the outdoors while staying warm and comfortable. However, while fire pits can add warmth and beauty to your backyard, it can be annoying to have to keep lighting and re-lighting logs. Propane fire pits make lighting your fire easier because they use a propane tank and an electric starter to ignite the fire. Does this Spark an idea?

Design and Dimensions

In order to build your fire pit, you need to know what materials you will be using and how large an area it will require. Some propane-fueled fire pits have simple designs, and consist solely of stones that are placed in a circle with a gas line in the middle. Others are more complex and use concrete as a foundation, with cinder blocks and stones built on top of it. Your fire pit may be square, round or triangular, so be creative and choose a design and dimensions that best fits your needs.

The Right Location

When selecting a spot for a propane fire pit in your backyard, use a tape measure to ensure the dimensions are correct. It's helpful to use spray paint to mark the area where the fire pit will go. If you are building a more complex fire pit, it may be necessary to use a backhoe to dig out the area as well. The bottom must be level, though, so use a rake to smooth the soil until it is even.

A Solid Foundation

If you are using concrete as a foundation for your propane fire pit, you should build a temporary wooden frame to serve as a template for the concrete slab that will form the fire pit's base. The frame should be secured to the ground with wooden posts, and must be level before the quick-setting concrete is poured into it. Make sure to smooth the concrete so it is level as well. Allow it to dry as per the instructions on the packaging. When the concrete is dry, the wooden frame may be removed.

Cinder Blocks

In order to save money on masonry supplies, use cinder blocks as a frame to which decorative stones can be affixed. A single course of cinder blocks is usually sufficient, and they are typically finished with cap blocks on the top. As you build up the cinder blocks, make sure that they are level. On the interior of the fire pit, it may be necessary to cut the blocks to fit, so be careful when measuring.

Decorative Stones

The benefit of building your own propane fire pit is that it can meet your specifications exactly. Find manufactured stones to adhere to the cinder blocks that are the color and texture that you desire (see Resources). Use field stones to cover the top of the fire pit, and cut them so they fit in place.

Connecting the Gas Line

For your fire pit to operate, a propane regulator must be installed that runs the fuel from the copper tubing that connects the propane tank to the fire pit. The propane gas line must then be connected to the regulator with Teflon tape. Because there is a risk of explosion with propane tanks, it's best to seek professional assistance for this step to avoid any mistakes.

Ideas for Making Lamp Shades

Lamp shades can add a great deal of style to a room design. When you don't want to spend a fortune on decorative shades or if you can't find the right design to complete your room, make your own. By using materials that are easy to find at a craft store, you can create one-of-a-kind, elegant shades that fit perfectly in your home. Does this Spark an idea?

Standing Lamp

If you have a short lamp base or a standing lamp, make a standing lamp shade out of craft paper. Start with a large piece of a base paper and form it into a tall rectangular form that can rest directly on a table or desk; cut a small half circle out of the bottom back edge for the cord. Look for textured paper that will show detail in the light. Add details to the paper: cut out shapes and back them with a piece of vellum, glue on paper or fabric details, or use a hole punch to create a polka-dot pattern.

Wire Frame

For a lamp shade that looks like an antique, make a wire frame. Start with a basic hanging light bulb, a desk lamp, or a standard low-profile lamp frame. Using a thick-gauge wire and dowels to act as bending rods, create a birdcage-style frame that fits around the lamp. Experiment with different shapes and angles: a round wire spherical cage or a lantern-style shape, for example. Build the basic shape by bending the wire into the basic shape and fill in the gaps with parallel lines and cross-bars.

Re-covering

If you have old lamp shades that do not work with your home design, you can add a new covering to give them a new look. For a simple project, cover an old lamp shade in craft paper or fabric, making sure to use glue only on the inside edges to avoid bubbling or wrinkling. In a child's room, use rows of looped ribbon or fake flowers to hide an ugly shade and create a sweet, decorative lamp. If you can find old or ripped shades, tear off the original fabric and preserve the wire frame; cover it with sturdy rice paper or upholstery fabric that matches your room design.

Plastic

Many craft and home stores sell basic lamp shades out of thin, frosted plastic. Make your own by bending a long rectangle of thin plastic into a cylindrical or cube shape and gluing the edges together with a heavy-duty glue. Customize the lamp shade to achieve a look that fits with your home design: glue on circles of plastic for a modern look, add silhouettes or words out of black craft paper, or glue on burlap or linen to give a natural texture.

How to Make a Table of Contents in Microsoft Word

Making a table of contents for a book is an automatic process with good word-processing software. Here's how to create a table of contents and update it as you write in Microsoft Word, as well as how to use the table of contents to scroll through your document.

Instructions

Creating the Table of Contents

1

Make sure each embedded heading, if any, is in a separate paragraph by placing your cursor after the heading and pressing the "Enter" key.

2

Apply Word's built-in heading or outline-level format styles to the headings you want to include in the table of contents. If using your own custom heading styles, skip this step.

3

Display paragraph marks after embedded headings by clicking the "Show/Hide Paragraph Mark" toolbar button. Select each paragraph mark, then click "Font" on the "Format" menu. Click the "Font" tab, select the "Hidden" check box and click "OK." Hide the paragraph marks by clicking the "Show/Hide Paragraph Mark" button again. (If there are no embedded headings, skip this step.)

4

Place your cursor at the location in the document where you want to build your table of contents and click your left mouse button.

5

Select "Index and Tables" from the "Insert" menu, then click the "Table of Contents" tab.

6

Click "Options," if using a custom heading style, and find a style you applied to document headings under "Available styles." Enter a number for the level of heading you want that style to represent under "TOC level," to the right of the style name. Repeat for each style you wish to include and click "OK."

7

Choose a design listed under "Formats" or specify a custom layout. Choose a tab leader (separator for the heading title and page number) from the "Tab Leader" drop-down list and the number of levels to display by clicking the "Show Levels" arrows. Click "OK" to create the table.

Page Navigation With a Table of Contents

8

Scroll the document to the table of contents.

9

Point to a page number in your table of contents. Your cursor will change to a pointing hand.

10

Click the page number. The document will scroll to that page.

Updating the Table

11

Update the document by adding, deleting or moving text.

12

Click anywhere within the table of contents. The table text will turn gray.

13

Press F9 to display the "Update Table of Contents" dialog box.

14

Select "Update Page Numbers only" and click "OK." The gray around the table text will disappear, and the numbers will be updated.

How to Build a Firepit Up Through a Deck

Adding a firepit to a deck provides a warm and friendly conversation area for your friends and family. While wood firepits are not recommended for use on a deck, a propane firepit is a safe alternative. With a cement block base and a burner pan suspended at least 12 inches above the deck, your firepit is ready for use in one day. In addition, by running the propane hose up through the deck, the tank is hidden from view, yet readily accessible for refilling. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Turn the firepit burner pan upside down onto the deck. Using chalk, trace the shape of the pan on the deck. Remove and set the pan to the side.

2

Drill a hole through the deck inside the chalk circle, large enough for the propane line.

3

Arrange the concrete blocks in a circle, just inside of the chalk line. Once you form the first circle, place the burner pan onto the blocks to ensure that it will fit properly. Remove the pan and add two more rows of blocks. Stagger the rows so each block centers over the two blocks below it. Leave a gap in the top row of blocks for a shut-off valve.

4

Add a row of capping stones on top of the concrete blocks for a finished appearance. Use a concrete epoxy to glue the capping stones in place.

5

Place four concrete pavers under the edge of the deck for the propane tank. Set the tank securely onto the pavers and attach the 10-foot propane hose to the tank's valve.

6

Feed the propane hose through the hole in the deck and the gap in the blocks. Attach the hose to a shut-off valve specifically made for use with propane. Attach a second hose to the other side of the valve and feed it back through the gap, keeping the valve outside of the blocks and easily accessible in case of emergency.

7

Place the burner pan onto the concrete blocks. Insert the burner ring into the pan. Attach the propane hose between the shut-off valve and the burner ring according to the manufacturer's directions.

8

Fill the bottom of the pan with crushed lava rock. Over the rock, add a layer of sand that extends up to the burner ring. Then add crushed fire glass to cover the burner ring.

9

Turn the propane tank valve on. Then turn the shut-off valve on. Light the firepit with a long-handled propane lighter.

How to Build a Corner Table

When space is at a premium, a good table surface can be constructed in a corner. It works for a small dining table or even as a computer work desk. This particular project doesnt even need legs because it only extends 3 feet along each side of the wall and is braced on a sturdy 2-by-4. This project only takes a couple of hours to build and with few wood-working skills.

Instructions

1

Have the lumber company cut all wood to measure or do it yourself at home with a circular saw. Use your own miter board and hand saw to prepare the inside corner 45-degree cut for the corner ends of the 2-by-4 lumber, or ask the lumber company to do it for you. Sand all raw surfaces first with medium and then fine sandpaper.

2

Stain the 2-by-4-by-36-inch pine boards and the decorative trim to complement the finished plywood table top with the disposable foam paintbrushes. Apply at least two thin coats of stain and dry thoroughly between applications. Finish the table, trim and 2-by-4 brace sections with two coats of acrylic finish. Dry between coats.

3

Measure from the floor up the corner of the wall to the proper 29-inch height of the table. Use the stud finder to locate wall studs 3 feet along each wall and mark.

4

Place the 2-inch side of the 2-by-4 in the corner just under the 29-inch height mark. Drill through the 2-by-4 at the point where it will be screwed into the wall stud. Secure the wood to the wall stud with lag bolts.

5

On the bottom of the 4-inch brace, drill pilot holes at the edges and every 8 inches into the corner. Run a bead of wood glue on top of the 4-inch side of the table brace. Place the plywood top over the braces. Use the drill to screw up through the bottom of the brace and into the table top.

6

Run a bead of glue across the front edge of the table. Adhere the decorative wood trim and nail it in place with finishing nails. Countersink each nail. The table is now securely screwed onto braces and ready to use.

Wedding Lighting Ideas for Tables

No matter how beautiful your place settings are or how grand the venue is, none of the wedding reception elements matter unless you have good lighting. Guests should be able to see their food and everything else around them. Lighting also sets the mood from the moment guests walk through the door. Make each table look lush and welcoming with inviting lighting and your guests will never want to leave.

Candles

Candles are inexpensive but can change a bland ballroom into a romantic space instantly. Group candles around a floral centerpiece or use candles only. If you're using scented candles, choose one scent for all of them so guests aren't overwhelmed by competing scents. Use candles of varying thicknesses and heights, or place pillar candles on top of candle stands of different heights. For a more streamlined look, buy square glass vases. Arrange the vases in a square, and then place a pillar candle in each. Use a colored table runner underneath any candle arrangement to add more visual interest.

Lanterns

Lanterns cast a romantic glow and make your reception feel intimate. Buy metal or glass lanterns from a garden store or scour an antique shop. Place a pillar candle inside each, and then place a lantern on a bed of rose petals at the center of each table. For a more affordable option, create luminaries. A luminary is a type of homemade lantern made from a paper bag. Start with light-colored bags made from thin paper. Hold the bags up to a lamp to check that light shines through. Cut designs out of the bag or glue a doily to the front of each. When you place a votive candle inside, the light will illuminate the shapes and throw soft light.

Lamps

Lamps make guests feel cozy and comfortable and are perfect for intimate receptions. Rent lamps from a rental store if you want a clean look. For a more casual feeling, visit antique shops or budget stores and pick up any lamps you like. Mix and match the bases and shades to make each one fit your style. Request that the workers at your venue tape down any lamp cords on the ground so guests don't trip. If your venue doesn't have electricity available next to each table, place a votive candle or push-top portable light inside the lamp shade.

Hanging Lights

If your venue can support it, hanging lights from the ceiling is an unexpected way to light up each table. This approach can look modern and make your venue feel like a swanky lounge or restaurant. Use paper lanterns or hanging lamp shades over each table. If your budget allows, contact a rental company or lighting store and rent lighted chandeliers or hanging candelabras. Whatever you choose, hang the light so it hovers 2 to 3 feet above the center of the table. This distance will provide plenty of light without blocking anyone's view.

How to Make an Outdoor Lamp

An outdoor lamp can serve many functions, but fundamentally, outdoor lights allow us to see in the dark. Multiple options exist for each type of outdoor light ready for purchase, but the styles available don't suit everyone, and ready-made lamps can be expensive. You can save money, meet your specific needs and express your taste by making your own outdoor lamp.

The instructions in section two assume you want a reading lamp on your patio, in your relaxing outdoor living room. Building codes and safety rules require a 3-prong, grounded plug on any lamp used outside. You can convert an indoor lamp to outdoor use. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Evaluate Your Lighting Needs

1

Decide the exterior lamp's function. Is the lamp meant to light stairs for safety? Illuminate landscaping? Decorate the patio? Will you want light bright enough to read by or just enough to see hazards? Consider the reach of the light you place outdoors; you don't want your neighbors to complain about a too-bright spotlight on their bedroom window.

2

Choose your light fixture based upon the wattage you need. Will you want a 10 watt bulb (quite dim) or a 125 watt bulb (really bright)? Decide if the lamp will stand alone on the ground or a table, or if it will be installed on posts in the ground with underground wiring or hang on the wall of your house or a fence or deck railing. Follow the manufacturer's directions for maximum watts and volts, and always check the fixture for a UL listing for safety.

3

If the light bulb socket does not have a shade or housing, you can create one from found objects of clay, glass or metals such as brass, brushed nickel, galvanized steel---materials not affected by heat or moisture. Use the housing or shade to direct the light only where you need it.

Rewire a Simple Table Lamp For Outdoor Use

4

Choose a standard lamp, made for a 75-watt or less bulb, that matches your patio decor.

5

Purchase a 3-prong plug from a hardware store. Open the housing.

6

Cut the 2-prong plug off the end of the lamp's cord and discard.

7

Feed the cord into the 3-prong plug housing.

8

Separate the two wires in the lamp cord an inch or two.

9

Using wire-strippers, cut the insulation off the final 1/2 inch of the two wires.

10

Connect the wires to the correct screws according to package directions, and re-close the 3-prong plug housing.

11

Connect your lamp to an exterior electrical outlet and enjoy your patio light.

How to Repair Antique Lamps

Antique lamps come in many shapes and sizes. Some of them hang and some sit on tables. Many antique lamps have glass shades, often painstakingly painted by hand and adorned with hanging beads or mounted on a glass or metal body. Antique lamps are often damaged over time, and many of them stop working. A lamp may be missing an original part, like a wick for an oil-burning lamp or an original lamp shade. Most antique lamps were oil-based and had wicks, with turning keys to regulate the flame.

Instructions

1

Wipe the hand-painted section of the lamp very carefully with a wet cloth, making sure that neither the patina nor any old paint is removed. Take an old toothbrush, make a pasty mixture of baking soda and water and scrub sections of the lamp where there is no design to remove stubborn grime.

2

Fix the metal base. Detach it from the chimney part of the lamp and look the base over for dents. Place the base on a flat surface and hammer out the dents. Examine the base for splits. Put on protective goggles, and, in a safe area away from flammables, solder the metal splits together.

3

Set the lamp's chimney on the base to be sure it fits. Antique lamps have a chimney, the part where the flame is protected from wind. Examine the chimney for hairline cracks. Gently file little nicks with a nail file to eliminate rough edges. Make sure the chimney fits back into the base properly. If it is beyond repair, buy a replacement chimney of the same size and shape.

4

Check that the burner--the part of the lamp that holds the wick--is intact. Replace any faulty or missing burner parts. Most burners screw or fit snugly on top of the collar of the chimney. Measure the diameter of the collar to make sure the new burner will fit.

5

Look for damage to the glass shade. Repair any cracks with nonflammable lamp glass adhesive. Coat each hairline crack with a thin line of glue, first on the inside of the shade, then on the outside. Make the inside layer thicker and smooth the outer layer with the straight edge of a razor blade, so that the glue line isnt obvious.

How to Design A Wooden Computer Desk & Unit Projects

Approximately 27 million people work out of their home, according to a recent International Data Corporation study. That means more of us are creating or redesigning home office spaces. While there are many computer desk kits available, few offer the "perfect" solution to meet your needs. When this is the case, the alternative is to design your own computer desk. Designing the perfect custom desk starts with a solid plan. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Gather your computer equipment on a large table surface. Move the keyboard, mouse pad area, and screen around until the layout feels most comfortable. Take neck strain into consideration. Ask yourself, should the monitor be elevated slightly? Make adjustments until you feel you have achieved the perfect layout. Measure the amount of desk space needed to achieve this "perfect fit."

2

Plan for computer tower placement. Most computer monitor cables are no more than 36-inches in length, so measure a 36-inch diameter circle using your "perfect" monitor placement as the center of the target. This measurement will indicate the maximum distance the computer tower can be placed away from the monitor (without monitor extension cables). Place your tower within that zone. Don't plan to store the tower above or below the desk. These arrangements always prove to be awkward in the end. Measure the depth of the computer tower and add eigth inches to this figure to allow for rear access room.

3

Envision placement of a printer. Printers, and fax machines, should also not be placed above or below the desktop level. Locate your printer within 36 inches of the computer tower, so the data cable will be long enough. Measure the dimensions of the printer, allowing at least four inches for access room at the back.

4

Think about the need for open "work space" on a desktop. Typing on a keyboard is not the only thing you do at your desk. Allow for at least one open workspace 36 inches wide and 24 inches deep.

5

Draft a set of "test models" to proper scale. Measure the home office space and draw a floor plan of "fixed" items like entry doors, closet doors, and windows. Total all your measurements for your perfect desk components. Draw this perfect desk to scale on a piece of paper and cut it out to form a scale "test model." Create at least two test models, one for the computer equipment part of the desk and one for any free workspace. Move these test model pieces around the room plan until you find a layout that seems to work best. One long desk may be the answer, or choose an L-shaped desk or a U-shaped arrangement.

6

Add adequate storage areas to the plan. Envisioning spaces above and below the desktop, sketch in storage shelves within easy reach of the computer area. Think about the location of any file cabinets, an external hard drive, reference books, and storage for printer paper, disks, and other items.

7

Use this plan as a basis for building a custom desk and shelves, or as a guide when shopping for manufactured furniture. You can mix and match or modify desk units available in assemble-it-yourself kits to achieve your perfect office.

How to Assemble Computer Desks

Computer desks come in a variety of configurations, and you can save time and money by putting together your computer desk by yourself. You are able to take your desk home immediately once you buy it, and you do not have to pay for delivery or an assembly fee. All ready-to-assemble computer desks come with assembly instructions, and many manufacturers will provide a customer service number you can call if you get stuck in the assembly process. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Sort the hardware such as screws, metal plates, cams and cam dowels into separate bowls. Lay out the separate computer desk pieces on a soft rug according to their numbers or letters.

2

Place the computer desktop pieces underside-up together on the floor. Put the joining plates over the pre-drilled holes, and screw the plate screws through the plate and into the bottom side of the computer desktop to join its pieces together.

3

Use a screwdriver to secure the keyboard tracks to the insides of the desktop braces. Screw on the tracking wheels and tracks on either side of the keyboard tray. Set the keyboard tray aside. Mount the braces to the underside of the desktop with the metal mounting plates and screws provided. Mount the sides of the computer desk to the underside of the desktop with the metal mounting plates and screws provided.

4

Insert the hidden cams into the large holes on the surface of both ends of the shelves of the computer desk. Make sure their arrows are pointing toward the edge of the shelves. Insert the metal end of a cam dowel into each side hole drilled under the cam holes. Position the computer desk shelves on the desk sides until their cam dowels line up with the cam dowel holes on the desk sides. Join the sides and shelves together with the cam dowels; tighten the hidden cams with a screwdriver until you cannot move them anymore and the shelves stay in place.

5

Screw in the kick plates on the front-bottom of the computer desk. Place the tracking wheels of the keyboard tray into the tracks on the braces, and roll the keyboard tray into place. Press screw caps into place to hide any exposed screws. Flip the computer desk upright, and place it in your desired area.

The Best Outdoor Fire Pits

The term fire pit has come to include anything from fire bowls that sit atop your outdoor patio table to natural stone-created fixtures with deep interiors. The best outdoor fire pits will meet safety, cooking, maintenance and other needs of the individual using it. Some outdoor fire pits are better for use with children, while some lend themselves more for adult use. Does this Spark an idea?

Distributes Heat Evenly

Your outdoor fire pit might need to serve more than one function: cooking food and warming up the guests standing or sitting near it. Some materials used to make an outdoor fire pit are more beneficial than others in accomplishing these two tasks. Copper is an example. Copper outdoor fire pits retain heat and distribute it evenly, allowing for uniform cooking of your outdoor meal or spreading heat to all your guests in the vicinity.

Reduces Burn Risk

You need a fire pit that isn't a potential hazard to you, your children or guests. A fire pit that is adequately covered and allows for a directed smoke flow in the top will be safer to use than one without these components. A log's unexpected movement -- and resulting potential misplacement from the fire pit itself -- could hit a nearby bystander or send sparks onto dry areas within range, causing burns, damage or a wildfire. According to the University of Chicago Medical Center, fires and burns at the home are the fifth-leading cause of unintentional death in America for children aged 14 and under. Reduce your child's fire and burn risk; choose an outdoor fire pit with a screen, or that is made of stone and deep enough to reduce this risk.

Accommodates Needs

Outdoor fire pit needs will likely differ from person to person. The best outdoor fire pit will meet the safety, cooking and warming needs of the homeowner buying it. That can include a slate and copper table fire pit for a couple planning to use their home fire area just to sit around on cold fall evenings after work and to grill their steaks on -- or a copper chiminea (with a safety screen) fire pit, for use around a group of children.

Low Maintenance

You want to enjoy your outdoor fire pit instead of living to clean or maintain it. The best outdoor fire pits, then, are those that are low maintenance. Natural stone fire pits might need an occasional debris removal of interior contents, but little additional upkeep is required. Fire bowl table top pits have to be cleaned after each use and for decor purposes could benefit from some polishing, or at least the exterior. Fire pits made into tables or as standalone pieces on top of the ground need to be emptied of burned contents more frequently than an in-the-ground stone fire pit. These may need to be cleaned on the exterior surface as well to keep them looking decorative.

How to Make Gel Fuel Fire-Bowls

Gel fuel fire-bowls burn clean without smoke or fumes, making them a great choice for apartments where you don't want to shoot your smoke up to the neighbors above you. Gel fuel cans are a smaller fuel source than most other options allowing you to construct a much smaller structure for your fire pit. This design takes advantage of the small size and allows you to make multiple table-top fire pits to enjoy throughout your space for added decoration. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Use a ruler to measure the height of your decorative ceramic bowl from the outside. Subtract this number from the 12-inch measurement of your planter, the total will be referred to as the difference.

2

Fill the planter with small polished rocks to the height of the difference you came up with from step 1.

3

Set the decorative bowl on top of the polished rocks in the center of the planter and fill in the surrounding areas of the bowl with more polished rocks.

4

Pour sand over the rocks, stop when you notice sand accumulating on the top and give the planter a gentle shake so the sand makes its way down to the bottom of the planter. The sand will fill in the gaps between the rocks to hold the decorative bowl in place. Continue to fill with sand until it has reached just below the top layer of polished rocks. The polished rocks add nice decoration, so don't cover the visible top layer. The sand will also add weight to the fire bowl making it more difficult for it to be accidentally tipped over.

5

Add the Gel Fuel to your fire-bowl. Thoroughly mix the gel fuel in the canister by shaking it. Remove the label of the Gel fuel canister, then remove the lid. Place the gel fuel canister in the center of the fire bowl and light it with a long barbecue lighter.

How to Put Out a Fire Pit

Putting out the campfire in your campsite fire pit is a vital step of camping. Even a couple of hot embers could spark a catastrophic forest fire. To enjoy and respect the outdoors, you'll want to put out the fire completely.

Instructions

1

Ideally, you want the large firewood to burn down so the fire is primarily ash and small pieces by the time you need to put it out.

2

Put out the fire well before you leave the campsite to give yourself time to ensure it's cool before leaving. A good time to put it out is before you begin packing your gear. When you're done, you can verify the fire pit is cool.

3

Spread the remaining sticks and embers of the fire evenly around.

4

Pour a jug or gallon of water over the embers from side to side, and up and down the fire pit. Pour water horizontally and vertically in a zigzag pattern. You should stand and hold the water several feet over the fire so you don't risk burning your hand with steam or embers. Pour the water until the fire pit stops sizzling and smoking.

5

Scrape off any embers from any larger sticks or logs and pour water on the stick and embers. Cover all embers of the fire and make sure everything is soaked through.

6

Use a shovel to mix the ashes and wood and add extra water to soak everything through. Also check the rocks of the fire pit to make sure there aren't any embers stuck between or underneath them. Ensure everything is saturated, and add extra water as needed.

7

Before leaving, make sure the fire pit is fully saturated and cool to the touch. Touch all around the fire pit to verify every section is cool.

How to Make a Lamp

Make an attractive and usable electric lamp with readily available materials and a lamp wiring kit. A bottle, vase, box or even stacked boxes or books can act as a base through which you can run the wire. The lamp kit provides wiring and fixtures, and lampshades are available in a variety of styles at department stores and discount stores. Lamp kits are sold at home improvement and craft stores, and include different fixtures, according to the type of base and lampshade you choose for the lamp. You can also purchase parts separately. These instructions are for a lamp made with a bottle or vase as a base. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

How to Make a Lamp

1




Secure the vase or bottle so that it does not slip, and drill a hole through the bottom to run the cord.

2




Enter the wire ends of the cord through the drilled hole, pull up, and thread through the fixture pipe (if used), harp bottom (if used), and the socket base.

3

Connect the neutral wire to the white or silver screw on the socket, and the hot wire to the other screw (usually a darker color), ensuring that all of the wires are held securely under the screw heads. (With some lamp kits the socket is already attached.)

4

Add sand or other objects for weighting the base, keeping in mind that the amount will vary depending on the container's size.

5

Mount the harp bottom (if used) and lamp socket base to the fixture pipe, which extends from the base; if needed, secure it to the base with hot glue.

6




If using a lamp harp, raise the sleeves on the harp arms, squeeze the arms together so that they slide into the harp bottom, and lower the sleeves to secure the harp.

7

Add a lampshade: Depending on the lampshade used, either place it directly on the light bulb, or on the threaded stud and then secure it with the finial to finish.

Value of Antique Lamps

Lamps, which started out as purely functional, found their utilitarianism joined by aesthetism in their design and production. Today, antique and vintage lamps have become highly collectible as exemplars of form and function, since they reflect the artistic movement and technology of their times. The value of lamps varies significantly, and prices can range from a few dollars to many thousands, and reproductions are abundant. Potential buyers should carefully research pieces prior to buying them, particularly when names such as Tiffany and Handel are being attributed to pieces. Does this Spark an idea?

History

Candles were the main form of lighting until the 1850s, when oil lamps were mass-produced and became readily available. These were commonly used in rural areas into the 1930s. Urban areas had converted to gas in the early 1800s and electricity later that century, with the invention of the electric light bulb.

Oil Lamps

The earliest lamps consisted of simple vessels with absorbent wicks. As mass production took over, manufacturers commonly made the metal bases and burners, and glassmakers supplied glass globes. In the Victorian era, oil lamps, candles and electric lamps coexisted. In the early 1900s, Aladdin Industries produced its Aladdin lamp, which was brighter than any of its competitors. Aladdin was so confident in its product that the company offered $1,000 to anyone that could make a brighter lamp.

Oil lamps are particularly desired by people who are decorating in the Victorian style. Prices can range from around $50 to a few hundred. Specific Aladdin lamps can be even more collectible. J. W. Courter's book "Aladdin The Magic Name in Lamps" will help buyers and sellers value specific lamps accurately.

Tiffany

Louis Comfort Tiffany's name is synonymous with beauty and quality craftsmanship in lamp making, and the company's Arts and Crafts style copper foil lamps have become the most desired lamps of all. The first Tiffany lamp was created around 1895, and the company prided itself in making each intricate leaded glass lamp by hand. These highly collectible lamps can fetch hundreds of thousands and even millions of dollars, and this makes them some of the most commonly reproduced.

Handel

The Handel Lamp Company was a rival of Tiffany Studios, matching them in quality but undercutting them in price. Handel's products were very popular, but they failed to move with the times and closed in 1936. Only 10 percent of the leaded lamps attributed to Handel that are sold today turn out to be authentic. Originals can fetch tens of thousands of dollars but more commonly fetch in the region of $5,000.

Lava Lamps

More modern lamps are increasing in popularity with collectors. Invented in 1963, lava lamps have recently seen a resurgence in popularity. These icons of the '60s and '70s combined heated wax, chemicals and dyed water to create lavalike imagery and were more decorative than functional as lighting. Original lava lamps can fetch around $300 at auction.

How to Make a Table Desk

A table desk is the easiest kind of desk to build. You don't have to worry about drawers, cabinets, roll tops or any of the other fancy gewgaws more elaborate desks require. Start with plans for a basic, table-style desk using the least expensive materials and easily alter them to make a fancier work surface. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Build a rectangular frame, using all four of your 2-by-4-inch beams. Lay them with the shorter beams on the inside, all beams resting on the narrow edges.

2

Screw the beams together to connect the frame, using two screws at each corner. Position the screws stacked vertically about 1/2 inch from each other and either end of the beam.

3

Lay your plywood sheet on top of your frame. Screw it in position with one screw at each corner.

4

Reinforce the plywood sheet with an extra screw at the center of each short side and two evenly spaced screws along each longer side.

5

Lay the frame on end, positioned so you can access both sides.

6

Set one post on end in one corner of your frame, on the side with the beams. Mount it to the plywood sheet with four screws, one in each corner of the beam.

7

Screw the other three posts into position in the other three corners of your frame.

How to Make a Wooden Children's Lamp

Instead of purchasing a lamp for your child, consider making a wooden lamp. It may take a little concentration and time, but the result will be well worth the effort. There is no substitute for the satisfaction you will have in giving your child a unique lamp, especially when you have created it yourself. You may even find that making the lamp yourself is less expensive than buying a similar mass-produced one. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Choose a large image from a coloring book and remove the page carefully. For best results, choose a picture without a lot of small details, because you will have to paint them all later.

2

Use scissors to cut out the image. Don't worry about inner lines, just cut out the main image as a single piece. Lay the picture flat on the piece of plywood.

3

Dampen a sponge slightly. While holding the picture in place, use the sponge to moisten the paper. This will make it stick to the plywood slightly. Set the sponge aside. Draw an outline around the image with your pencil. Take your time and stick as close to the edges as you can.

4

Remove the piece of paper you used for a pattern. If there are mistakes that need to be corrected in the outline, make them now. The result should be an outline that exactly matches the picture you are going to turn into a lamp.

5

Cut around the edges of your outline with a jigsaw. Mark a flat line across the bottom of the board, and cut it off with the jigsaw. Sand all of the corners of both the cut out and the other board so that there are no sharp edges.

6

Paint the board in the desired colors. Paint the piece of 1-by-4-inch lumber to match the color used most on the cutout.

7

Put a thin line of wood glue along the flat bottom of your cut-out. Put another thin line along the center of the other board, which you can think of as the lamp base. Install four screws to hold the base to the cutout. Position the lamp so that it will not be moved. Allow it to set overnight.

8

Install the lamp kit. Mount the lamp rod so that it ends 3/4 inch above the base, to allow the cord to move about. Cut the bottom of the lamp rod so that the top protrudes 1 inch above the top of the cutout. The lamp fixture itself will screw down onto the top, hiding the lamp rod.

How to Build a Firepit

Is there anything more soothing than sitting around a fire on a cool night? Grownups and kids both love the appeal of an open fire. Whether toasting a marshmallow over the flames or just sipping a cup of coffee and watching the dancing flames, a fire pit is guaranteed to make everyone's world a better place. Here's how you can build a fire pit in your own yard and be roasting hot dogs that very same evening.

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Instructions

Building the Firepit

1

Choose a location for your fire pit that isn't close to trees, building or anything that could catch fire from a spark. A level location is best, but the design can accommodate a slight slope as well. Be sure there aren't any underground wires, cable or pipes in your chosen location.

2

Drive a stake into the ground where you want to put the fire pit. Tie a piece of string to the stake and attach a stick or nail 1 1/2 or 2 feet away from the stake.

3

Scribe a circle all around the stake and mark the line with spray paint or even flour.

4

Remove the sod inside the circle and dig out the hole to a depth of about 1 foot (keep the sides as straight as possible). Then, in the center of your fire pit excavation, dig a hole about 6 or 8 inches square and 12 inches deep

5

Scrape out the bottom of your hole and pour in about 4 inches of pea gravel (fill the hole in the center with the gravel as well). If your fire pit is on a slope you can level the bottom out by adding more pea gravel to one side. The pea gravel will help the fire pit drain and the hole in the center will act as a sump and improve the drainage

6

Add about 3 inches of sand on top of the pea gravel - the sand will help prevent any fire from spreading to roots under your pit.

7

Surround the fire pit with at least two rows of concrete pavers stacked on top of each other. Dry stack the pavers to make it easy to replace any that might break. Don't use adhesive to hold the pavers together, as it will melt and give off fumes that could be toxic.

8

Now just wait for evening, build the first fire in your own fire pit, and then sit back and enjoy.

What Are the Parts of a Computer Database?

A database is a software application that runs on an enterprise server. The software holds data for an individual or a company. The database can be a simple storage application holding only a few thousand records, or it can be gigabytes of information stored using millions of records. Knowing the inner parts of a database helps the administrators and owners understand how data is stored and secured.

Table

The table is the component that holds rows and columns of data. The table is the central part of the database where information is manipulated, saved and deleted. The columns are the headers of the table. For instance, in a table of customers, the columns can be first name, last name and address. The rows are called records. These rows make up one of each column to hold a set of data for a specific customer.

Query

A query is a set of instructions that retrieve data from the table. A query can be a line of text, or it can be run through a stored procedure. A query is also used to update or delete records in a table. Queries are created using a specific syntax. For instance, Oracle has a slightly different syntax than Microsoft SQL Server. Queries can be very basic, or they can be a very long set of complex instructions that do multiple actions to the tables.

Reports

Reports use queries to retrieve data and show a list of data. The data is used to analyze issues or send to forms. Reports are the essential tools for financial applications and marketing organizations. These reports can give managers the necessary data to evaluate sales, marketing effectiveness and employee's commissions.

Forms

Forms are the parts of the database where the data is returned to the user using styles and attractive layouts. These forms are normally used by managers or employees who view the same report every day or weekly. For quick reporting, raw data is used in reports. Forms allow programmers to lay out the data in a way that's easier to read than a matrix of numbers.

Security

Security is an essential part of a database. Security is necessary so only users who have permissions can access the data. This protects customer data, as well as employee data, within payroll applications. Security has several levels. The entire database can be blocked using passwords, or the administrator can limit function like only allowing a user to see specific data within a table.

How to Create a Table & Graph for Free

Use tables and graphs to display spreadsheet data to your audience. Tables and graphs can be created with spreadsheet software. This software may be available on your computer or online at no charge. Microsoft Excel (available for free trial downloads), OpenOffice and Google have software that you can use to create tables and graphs. The graph can be generated by the data from the table. By using these two features together, they will up linked and updates will be displayed as the table data changes.

Instructions

Excel 2010

1

Open Excel 2010 and "Click" cell "A1." Type "Categories." In cell "A2," type "Home." Press the "Enter" key. In cell "A3," type "Office." Press the "Enter" key. In cell "A4"," type "Abroad." Using the keyboard, move the cursor to cell "B1." In cell "B1," type "Amount." Press "Enter." Type "120" in cell "B2," "160" in cell "B3" and "76" in cell "B4."

2

Review your table data. Highlight cells "A1" to "B4." The highlighted area turns blue.

3

Select the "Insert" tab and locate the "Charts" group. Select a graph from this group. For example, if you want to create a bar graph, select "Bar." A drop-down list appears. Select "Clustered Bar." A clustered bar graph is created.

Google Documents

4

Access the Google Documents website. Click "Create New." A drop-down list appears. Select "Spreadsheet." "Click" cell "A1." Type "Categories." In cell "A2," type "Home." Press the "Enter" key. In cell "A3," type "Office." Press the "Enter" key. In cell "A4," type "Abroad." Using the keyboard, move the cursor to cell "B1." In cell "B1," type "Amount." Press "Enter." Type "120" in cell "B2," "160" in cell "B3" and "76" in cell "B4."

5

Review your table data. Highlight rows "1" to "4." The highlighted area turns blue.

6

Select "Insert" on the menu bar, then "Chart." Review the recommended charts on the "Start" tab. Select one of them. A graph is quickly created in your document.

OpenOffice

7

Open OpenOffice Calc. A new spreadsheet appears. "Click" cell "A1." Type "Categories." In cell "A2," type "Home." Press the "Enter" key. In cell "A3," type "Office." Press the "Enter" key. In cell "A4," type "Abroad." Using the keyboard, move the cursor to cell "B1." In cell "B1," type "Amount." Press "Enter." Type "120" in cell "B2," "160" in cell "B3" and "76" in cell "B4."

8

Review your table data. Highlight rows "1" to "4." The highlighted area turns blue.

9

Select "Insert" on the menu bar. Select "Chart." The AutoFormat Chart dialog box appears. Select "Next." Select the chart type and click "Next." Check "Chart Title" and type a name for your chart. Click "Create." The chart appears in your OpenOffice Calc spreadsheet.

How to Recline and Use a Computer

Most people get tired when sitting at a desk and using a computer for hours on end. Now you can recline and use a computer. It can be a treat to use your computer from your easy chair or your bed, so get ready to enjoy yourself. Read on to learn how to recline and use a computer.

Instructions

1

Buy a laptop computer desk. You can find some with legs that angle the computer up to 30 inches. Alternatively, you can buy one called a lap board. This gives you enough room for your mouse as well as your computer and it is long enough that you can rest it on both arms of your recliner.

2

Set up a TV table beside your recliner. Place your computer and mouse, if you use a separate one, on it. Plug in your computer. Put your computer desk on the other side of the recliner within easy reach.

3

Sit down in your recliner and lean back. Move your computer desk to you and adjust it to the perfect height. Alternatively pick up your lap board and place it on the arms of the recliner. Either way there shouldn't be any weight on your lap.

4

Place your computer and mouse on the table. Open your laptop and turn it on--you are now ready to work as you recline in your chair.

5

Reverse the process when you are ready for a break or you are done for the day.

6

Use the steps above for working on your computer while you are reclining in your bed. The only thing is when you are in the bed if you are using a lap board you should place a pillow or something on your lap and then the board so all the weight isn't on your lap.

Outdoor Firepit Ideas

Outdoor firepits, both permanent and portable, add drama and interest to backyards, outdoor living areas as well as parties and gatherings. Whether they are modern or rustic, purchased or homemade, outdoor firepits are a focal point that extend the usefulness of a patio or deck area. Use it solely to keep warm on chilly days or transform the firepit into a barbecue pit by topping it with a metal grate or rack. They are a fun and exciting addition to any backyard and outdoor space. Does this Spark an idea?

Firepit Rings

Durable steel firepit rings are attractive and economical structures to create a quick and easy firepit almost anywhere. Firepit rings set up quickly for immediate use. They usually have decorative patterns and shapes cut out of the sides for viewing the fire. Snap the circular sides together to form an enclosure where you want to start a fire, fill it with wood and tinder, and light a fire. For cooking outdoors, place a grate or rack on top.

Firepit Table

Decorative firepit tables can be simple or elaborate, and are often sold as part of patio furniture sets. They are large bowls elevated on legs and surrounded by either a large ledge or a table surface. Made out of a variety of materials including mosaic tile, slate, copper, river rock, and bronze, these fire pit tables are attractive outdoor furniture additions to any outside area.

Decorative Copper Fire Pit

Because of their beauty and durability, copper firepits are more expensive than other kinds of fire pits, but well worth the extra cost. They come in a range of styles, including hammered copper bowls and pits, firepits and fireplaces with copper accents as well as copper lids or hoods on top of mesh. Copper adds a distinctive focal point to outdoor areas.

Chiminea

Chimineas are enclosed fire burning structures with a front door and a cylindrical chimney. Made from lay, cast iron, cast aluminum or copper, they come in many sizes and designs.

Gas Firepit

Gas firepits operate with propane or gas lines, eliminating the need for wood and tinder materials. They are available in different styles and price ranges and can be portable but are usually part of a permanent installation in decks and outdoor rooms.

Camp Firepit

Setting up a camp firepit is as simple as digging a shallow bowl shape and surrounding it with rocks, stones or bricks. These rough and utilitarian firepits are not as attractive and are usually temporary.

DIY: Outdoor Fire Pit Glass

Fire pits are used as decorative pieces of patio furniture. People like to watch a contained fire outside, but a problem with most fire pits is that the flame is concealed by the pit's body. Making a glass fire pit will remedy that problem, allowing you to see more of the fire and even add additional decoration throughout the pit's body. Making your own glass fire pit allows you make a custom design to add charm. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Flip the glass tray upside down. Apply waterproof polyurethane glue to one end of each of the three 18-inch solid metal bars and stick them vertically to the bottom of the glass tray. Position the bars in equal distances between each other. The bars will be the legs of your glass fire pit. Allow the polyurethane glue to dry.

2

Flip the glass tray over and stand it on its legs. Check that the legs are firmly bonded with the glass tray. Set an artificial rose in the center of the tray and place a glass bowl upside-down over it to see how well the rose fits. Clip the stem of the rose as needed so it fits within the bowl, using scissors. Remove the bowl and apply polyurethane glue to the rim of the bowl, then place the bowl upside-down over the rose in the center of the tray. Let the glue dry.

3

Apply polyurethane glue to the bottom of the other glass bowl and set it directly on top of the upside-down bowl you glued over the rose. This top bowl is the fire bowl.

4

Shake a gel fuel canister well and place it in your glass fire bowl. Remove the label, then remove the lid and light it with a long match or barbecue lighter.

How to Make a Patio Fire Pit

Patio fire pits are an outdoor accessory useful during both warm and cold weather. Fire pits are a focal point for gatherings and can also serve as an ad hoc grill. Building a fire pit on your patio can be accomplished using just a few tools and basic building materials. Fire pits don't have to expensive to be efficient. Turn your patio into an inviting space by constructing a simple fire pit. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Find a location on your patio for the fire pit that is away from any structures or trees. Outer corners work well to keep flames away from walls and keep smoke out of the house. Make sure the fire pit is on a level area.

2

Create the barrier between the patio and the fire pit. Have your local home center cut the aluminum piece to the dimensions listed when you purchase the sheet. Lay the sheet on the patio where the fire pit is to be constructed.

3

Build the base of the fire pit. Lay a ring of brick around the edges of the aluminum sheet with the brick taking the formation of sun beams extending out. Keep the edge of the aluminum visable on all sides. Make the ends of the brick touch each other to form a tight circle.

4

Place a layer of pea gravel in the middle of the bricks so that it covers the inside circle to the top of the bricks.

5

Build another layer of bricks using the same pattern as the first layer. Lay the second layer of bricks so that one brick rests on top of two bricks below it. Put a layer of sand over the pea gravel to the top of the bricks.

6

Set the third layer of bricks sideways along the inside edge of the pit. Have the ends 1 inch apart. Set the next layer so that each brick rests on top of the two below it. Keep the spacing between bricks even. This will allow airflow into the fire pit while keeping smoldering pieces inside the pit. Continue building until you have five layers total.

7

Top off the fire pit. Set the grate over the bricks. Center the grate so most of the edges are on the brick. Use heavy grates as a downward weight that keeps the bricks in place.

How to Make a Fire Pit Table From an Old Grill & an Old Table

Fire pit tables are ideal for evening entertaining. The fire pit in the center of the table can create a warm ambiance for your family and guests. Instead of purchasing one, you can make a fire pit table using an old grill and old table. The bottom of the grill will act as the fire pit. A hole cut out of the table holds the bottom of the grill. Select an old wooden table that will complement your outdoor entertaining space for the project. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Place the old grill on a work surface. Take the lid off of the grill. Turn the bottom half of the grill upside down in the center of the old table. Transfer the outline of the bottom half of the grill to the old table using a pencil.

2

Drill a hole through the table inside the pencil outline with a 1/2-inch drill bit. Slide the blade of a jigsaw through the hole. Cut through the table to the pencil outline, then run the saw along the line to cut out the hole for the bottom of the grill.

3

Spray the bottom half of the grill with black stove spray paint. Allow the paint to dry for at least four hours and apply a second coat. Allow the second coat to dry for 24 hours.

4

Put the bottom half of the grill in the hole in the table top. The lip of the grill should rest on the table and hold it in place.

5

Fill the bottom of the grill with a 2-inch layer of sand. Place five gel-fuel cans evenly around the sand. Stack river rocks around the gel fuel cans so that they are covered except for the can openings.

How to Build a Patio Table with a Fire Pit

A patio table with a fire pit offers a warm relaxing space to enjoy when the weather begins to get cooler. Many patio table sets offer a recessed area to build a small fire and often come with a screen dome to prevent embers and sparks from escaping. These tables are often expensive and a hassle to get home from the store. With these tips, you can build your own. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Buy the lumber for the size of patio table fire pit you want. The type of wood you get is a personal preference.

2

Build the surround for the fire pit from the lumber as desired. Gather or purchase rock or stone to construct the center basin that holds the central fire pit bowl. Place the rocks or stone in a pattern or styles desired and join them with a mortar of cement that contains no adhesives. Dry stacking the stones is another common method of construction. Leave a depression in the center of the stone for the fire pit bowl.

3

Find an appropriate size fire pit bowl basin for the center depression in the stone patio table. Most home improvement stores will carry these.

4

Fill the fire pit basin with an appropriate amount of wood or other burning material and light it. Allow the fire to consume the material and check all of the stone to ensure the fire pit bowl is secure in place.

DIY Bedside Lamps

Embellishing your own lamp gives you the freedom to be creative in your room's decor. By including natural elements such as stones, twigs or moss in your home, you can add an interesting organic feel to the space. The unexpected use of natural items inside the home can be a beautiful addition to many decor schemes. If your decor is comprised entirely of purchased items, the space can sometimes feel staged. By decorating bedside lamps using found items, such as twigs or driftwood, you can bring nature into the space and can create a focal point for the room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Purchase two inexpensive matching lamp bases and shades. The lamp bases will be entirely covered in twigs, so it does not matter what they look like. For the best results, choose cylindrical bases that are not as wide as the shade.

2

Collect between 30 and 40 twigs that are just slightly taller than the lamp bases. If needed, trim the twigs to the proper height using clippers. Only trim one end to preserve the organic uneven look of the twigs. The more twisted the twigs are, the more interesting the lamps will look.

3

Glue the twigs in one layer around the entire base of the lamp with the untrimmed end facing up. Make sure that there are no visible parts of the base, or the effect will be ruined. A hot glue guns work best for this step as hot glue binds to most surfaces. Hold the twig to the base until the seam of glue has dried completely.

4

Tie a piece of twine or string around the twigs and glue in place with two dots of hot glue. Place one dot directly under the knot in the string at the front of the lamp and one on the back of the lamp. The string gives the impression that the twigs are one bundle.

5

Attach the shade to the base using a light bulb to hold it in place. Most shades attach with a wire circle that is placed around the light socket before the bulb is screwed in. Make sure that the shade doesn't conceal too much of the twigs or the organic look of the lamps will go unnoticed.

How to Convert a Coffee Table to a Desk

The difference between some kinds of coffee tables and a desk is nothing more than the height of the coffee table. If you don't mind sitting on the floor, you can do a conversion simply by sitting on a cushion instead of an office chair. If this is not an option, converting is still a simple operation. The hardest part is getting the right kind of coffee table. Your coffee table should be at least 2 feet wide and 4 feet long, with legs only along the outside edge. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure the dimensions of the tops of your two filing cabinets.

2

Cut the grip fabric to match the dimensions of your filing cabinets. Use the scissors to trim as necessary.

3

Measure the distance between the inside edges of the legs of your coffee table.

4

Set the two filing cabinets in position where you want your desk to be. Place them so the drawers face the same direction, and their outside edges are the same distance apart as your measurement from Step 3.

5

Place one piece of grip fabric on the top of each filing cabinet.

6

Lift your coffee table and set it in place on top of the filing cabinets. The cabinets will provide both a stable riser and storage space for your papers and office supplies.