How to Build a Folding Shelf

Folding shelves are great for use as extra storage in an apartment, or as a display device when setting up a yard sale. The best part is that the shelves can be folded into a unit that is easily stored until it is needed once again. While it is possible to buy folding shelves, building your own set of shelves is a relatively simple carpentry task. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Mark and cut the sections of wood according to the plans. Cut all the sections at one time. This will make the process of assembly much easier.

2

Sand the cut sections. This helps to ensure both the cut edges and the general surface of each piece is smooth. Wipe the sanded surfaces with a clean, dry cloth to remove any residue.

3

Attach the hinges to the back section of the folding shelf unit. This is easier to accomplish if the back section is placed on a flat surface such as a worktable. Use the drill to make starter holes for the screws, then gently use the screwdriver to secure the screws into place. The number of hinges required may range from two to four on each side, depending on the height of the shelving unit.

4

Align the side pieces on either side of the back section. With the hinges fully extended, slide the side pieces into position so that the free arm of the hinges lay on the side pieces. Make sure the top and bottom of the side pieces are level with the top and bottom of the back section.

5

Attach the side pieces to the back section using the aligned hinges

6

Determine the placement of each shelf in the unit. Use hinges to secure the back of each shelf to the back section of the folding shelves. Generally, two hinges per shelf is sufficient, although three may be required for longer shelves.

7

Mark the side pieces to determine where the bottom of each shelf will meet with the side pieces when the shelves are set up. Drill a couple of small holes into the side pieces and slip in dowels. The dowels will provide a place for the shelves to rest when the unit is unfolded.

8

Install the clamps along the front of the unit that help to hold the side pieces to the shelves. This will add stability and ensure the sides do not slip out of place as items are stacked on the shelves

9

Paint, stain, or seal the folding unit according to your taste.

How to Properly Set Up Banquet Tables

The way you set up banquet tables has an effect on the success of the event. When having a banquet, guests should be comfortable and have the ability to interact with each other. If there is a speaker at the banquet, the room should be set up to accommodate late entrants that do not disturb the event. Setting up banquet tables properly ensures the safety and comfort of your guests. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Calculate the number of guests to be seated for the event. The number of guests will determine how many tables and chairs will be needed.

2

Determine if round or rectangle tables will be used.

3

Select a 54-inch round table to seat 6, a 60-inch round table to seat 8 or a 72-inch round table to seat 10 people.

4

Select a 30-inch by 72-inch rectangle table to seat 6 or 30-inch by 96-inch rectangle table to seat 10 people.

5

Set up banquet tables to allow 30 inches of space between each table. This creates an aisle for guests to pass through; 10 square feet of space is allowed per person.

6

Place the tables toward the front of the room, creating the entrance toward the back of the room.

7

Inspect all tables to ensure they are secure. You want to make sure the table legs are locked in place so that they do not fall on the guests. Throughout the inspection look to confirm there is enough room for guests and staff to pass through.

Ideas for Wedding Hall Decorations

Decorations for a wedding play a very important role in setting the tone and mood of the event. There are many ways to decorate a wedding hall--from simple, yet elegant, flower arrangements to hanging flowing fabric on the ceiling. You can create an entertaining and inviting environment for your guests on any budget.

Planted Centerpieces

Many couples spend a great deal of money on table centerpieces, as well as wedding guest favors. You can combine the two and create a beautiful display for each table. One way to do this is to use small potted plants pushed together in a circle in the middle of the table. There are triangular pots that connect together to create one circle, which looks like a singular large centerpiece. At the end of the evening, guests get to take a potted plant home and your centerpieces go to good use.

Ceiling Drapes

If you're looking to create a more intimate feeling for your wedding, consider installing a ceiling drape at your hall. This canopy can be a dramatic addition to your wedding and also can be created in numerous colors to match the other hues of your wedding.

Lighting

By adding lighting to your wedding, you have an opportunity to set the mood of your wedding without a large expense. Use candles of various heights on the guest tables, as well as the bar and food tables. You can also incorporate formal lighting by having a lighting technician install lights around the perimeter of the wedding hall. These lights can be any color you choose to set a more dramatic mood to your reception.

Photographs

A running slide show is a great way to decorate your wedding hall. Hang a large screen, or use a blank wall, to project images of the couple, their friends and family and other important members of the wedding. By keeping the show on a loop, guests can view it at their leisure and will enjoy the visual decoration it provides. Additionally, consider scattering family and friend photos with the couple on the guest tables for decoration. This personal touch with allow guests to feel more connected to the bride and groom.

How to Buy a Small Pool Hall

A small pool hall can provide a steady profit stream for the crafty businessperson. If you want to buy a small pool hall, you need to do some legwork. If you buy an established business, you can avoid the costs of pool tables, cues, balls and initial marketing. Yet you may end up not making as much money as you ultimately would by buying a structure and building your own small pool hall business from scratch.

Instructions

1

Search the Yellow Pages for small pool halls in the area where you wish to operate. Read reviews of these pool halls on the Internet. Try to obtain as much information as you can from the businesses' websites. Check to see if they have a presence on social media sites. If not, you will need to establish such a presence once you purchase the business.

2

Visit the small pool hall. You should always visit a location to get a feeling for the clientele. If you feel uncomfortable, you should not purchase the pool hall. You will have an easier time later if you choose a business that fits your personal preferences. You will have an established client base from the first day you take over the small pool hall.

During your visit, look over the pool tables and equipment. Note any problems with this or any other part of the hall. You may be able to win concessions from the owner in negotiating a purchase price.

3

Make an offer. Visit multiple pool halls in an area to get a sense of their income potential. If you pay too much for the business, you will never recover your investment. Be courteous, but firm, while negotiating the purchase. Consider whether you have enough capital to support the purchase and start-up costs.

Decorating Banquet Tables

Theme

The most important aspect to keep in mind when decorating banquet tables is the overall theme of the event. For example, when creating tables for a wedding banquet, keep in mind the bride's choice of colors for the wedding. You would also want to use any specific themes the bride may have chosen for the event. If you are decorating the event in a specific season, you may also want to take that into consideration. Fall events can inspire beautiful tables in oranges, yellows, and reds. Winter events can inspire tables in blues and whites. Holidays may also determine event themes, especially Christmas. Another important thing to keep in mind is that you do not want to take the theme overboard. Use hints of color and accessories that keep an overall elegant feel to the banquet tables, while at the same time blending in with the rest of the event.

Height

Height is an important aspect when decorating banquet tables. Using accessories and decorations that have varying heights creates depth and interest to your decor. However, guests need to be able to see each other. If you want to achieve dramatic height, choose centerpieces that are thin at the sight level and then expand at the top and bottom. This will keep the view open while still creating drama. When in doubt, keep your centerpieces below eye level.

Creativity

It is important to keep the line between elegance and cliche without sacrificing creativity. Use interesting textures and volumes to create beautiful arrangements and centerpieces. Play off the dinnerware and servingware patterns and colors to attract your guests' eyes to the decor.

Function

No matter how many decorations you use for your tables, make sure that your guests and the serving staff can still operate around them. Is the food accessible? Is the seating comfortable? Does it feel crowded?

Safety

Candles and burners are essential pieces of banquet table decor. Candles provide a warm glow and elegance, and burners help maintain food at the proper temperature. They can create safety hazards. Do not place flammable decorations near open flames.

Hidden Storage

Using long table cloths on your serving tables can provide much needed hidden storage for extra napkins, plates, cups rolls, or even foods that do not need to be refrigerated or kept warm, for quick and easy access. Just slide any extra items underneath the serving table and let the long cloths hide them.

How Many Inches Should a Light Fixture Be From a Table?

Hang lights at the correct height over a table.

Inches from Table

Light fixtures should not be hung too high or too low from a tabletop. According to Heavenly Lights, the bottom of the light fixture should hang between 30 and 34 inches off of the tabletop. This is the general distance that most light fixtures are placed above a table, but if you prefer your lights to be higher or lower, you can certainly adjust suspension based upon personal preference.

Ceiling Height

The general rule of a 30- to 34-inch distance from tabletop to light base is based upon a room that has an 8-foot ceiling. If your ceiling is taller than 8 feet, you should add 3 inches of suspension for every extra foot of ceiling above 8 feet. If it is smaller than 8 feet, you should subtract 3 inches of suspension for every foot below 8 feet.

Bottom Line

The base of your light fixture should hang 30 to 34 inches above the table. If your room has a ceiling larger or smaller than 8 feet, you should make adequate adjustments.

How to Restore Old Furniture

If you want to save time and money, don't shop for new furniture. Instead, give your old wood furniture a face lift. Once you learn how to restore old furniture, you'll wonder why you didn't attempt it sooner. With the right tools and a little elbow grease, your old furniture will look as good as new in no time. Read on to learn how to restore old furniture. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Choose a location where the restoration will take place. If you can't take your old furniture outdoors, a room with proper ventilation will suffice.

2

Apply a drop cloth or old newspapers on the ground and place the furniture on top.

3

Put on rubber gloves and pour the semi-paste stripper into an aluminum can.

4

Dip the paint brush into the stripper and apply it to the furniture. Work in small sections, as not to get overwhelmed.

5

Wait approximately 10 minutes, then remove the old finish with a putty knife. Continue with this method until you can see clean wood.

6

Allow the furniture to dry for several hours, otherwise, the sandpaper will get gunked up from the semi-paste stripper.

7

Sand the entire surface of your old furniture with the sandpaper. Go with the grain; not against it. Once it has been sanded, wipe it down with a tack cloth to remove dust.

8

Use a new paint brush to apply gel stain. Allow the stain to penetrate the wood for five minutes, then wipe off excess stain with a clean cloth. Allow the furniture to dry for 24 hours.

9

Apply a finishing top coat to protect your furniture and make it shine.

Can a Buffet & Hutch Be Put Into a Foyer Instead of a Dining Room?

It's common for decorators and homeowners to place a slim table of some sort in the foyer or entryway of a home. However, there is no hard-and-fast rule regarding the exact size, depth, shape and original purpose of the table. In fact, as long as your foyer or entryway is large enough to hold the piece, you can even use a dining room buffet and hutch there. Does this Spark an idea?

Purpose

Placing a table in a home's foyer or entry hall is not just to fill an empty room. A hall table basically serves to make entering a home a pleasurable and convenient experience, for a family member or a special guest. A hall table may hold a small functioning lamp, a fragrant candle or bowl of potpourri, a flower arrangement or perhaps framed photos or a small piece of art.

The Buffet

Buffets often have a slim profile, meaning they do not extend too far into the room. Entry halls being usually small rooms, the two are often a good fit. The key is measuring well to make sure there is enough room in the entry for the buffet, people to gather, doors to open and close freely, and any other furniture and accessories in the entryway.

The Hutch

If your hutch is large, looming and leaves little top surface for accessories, such as a few framed photos or a small flower arrangement, you may wish to remove and store it. Many buffet/hutch combinations are configured as two separate pieces, which lets you easily separate them and use the buffet alone. However, hutches come in many sizes and designs. You may find that yours works wonderfully with your buffet as an entry table. Or, if your entry hall or foyer is large enough, you may have room for both an entry table and a buffet/hutch combination. In this case, you can use the entry table for its traditional purpose, and the buffet and hutch to display artwork or curios.

Optimizing Buffet and Hutch

Buffets and hutches feature storage, useful in an entry hall. Consider keeping a small amount of cash in a drawer to tip delivery people. Other smart and convenient items to keep near the door include dog leashes, an old towel for wiping wet shoes or muddy dog paws, and a box or basket for keys and mail. If your buffet has a large storage area, it makes a convenient spot to keep school books and backpacks; near the door but hidden from view.

Additional Uses

Storage pieces are a welcome addition to any room. If your hutch and buffet don't work well in your entry hall, and are not needed in your dining room, consider using them, together or separately, in the nursery as a changing table and a storage cabinet for diapers and clothing, in the family room as a flat screen TV console, in the playroom to store toys and games, or even on a covered porch or in a sunroom to hold beach towels, pool toys and fishing equipment.

How to Distress a Table

If you are looking for a great way to make your dining room table take on an aged or Old World appearance, then distressing the wood by hand is a great way to achieve this look. If you aren't sure where to begin, then keep reading to discover how you too can have this timeless look in your very own dining room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Use a drill to make marks in the wood. Be careful not to go all the way through the table and to adjust the dept of different marks you make. You'll also want to take great care that you do not inadvertently create a pattern. This is an excellent tool for distressing and allows different looks according to the various bits used and depths drilled.

2

Hit the table with chains in various places to leave fairly unique indentations in the surface according to the force of the blow and the location of the strike. Wood can be distressed through this sort of pressure quite beautifully. When used in combination with some of the other distressing techniques and tools the overall look can be both stunning and ageless.

3

Scrape the surface with a wire brush. This is yet another distinct mark that will leave indentations upon the surface without causing so much damage that the surface isn't suitable for dining or many other purposes.

4

Make rings in the table's wooden surface by filling cleaned cans in various sizes filled with hot water and placed haphazardly along the surface of the table. You will probably want to do this several times so that the rings overlap for an even more aged look. While this doesn't directly distress the surface it greatly adds to the look of old you are hoping to achieve.

How to Build a Round Wood Table Top

To build a solid wood round table top, choose lumber with the straightest edges possible. Remember that '2-by' lumber is rounded on the long edges and will create a v-groove at the joints when pieces are glued together. The principle for making a round wood table top is the same regardless of the type of wood you use. For tips on round wood table tops made from plywood, see "Building a Round Table: A Serious Page" in the Reference section of this article. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Place the 2-by-6s on a worktable along with the bar clamps. Apply glue to one of the long edges of five of them, push them together, then place the bar clamps across all six and tighten the clamps until the glue oozes out the full length of the joint. This will create a 36-by-31-inch rectangle.

2

With a hammer, tap the areas where the long edges meet to keep them as even as possible while you tighten the clamps. Set the glued wood aside to dry according to the glue manufacturer's instructions.

3

Remove the bar clamps when the glue is dry and use a putty knife to scrape off as much of the excess glue as possible. Sand the remaining glue and the lumber with a belt sander and a 60-grit sanding belt. Measure the length and the width, then mark the center of the rectangular tabletop.

4

Drill a small hole in one end of the 20-inch piece of lattice. Measure from that hole, down the lattice and make a mark at 15 inches and drill a small hole at that mark as well.

5

Insert a 2d box nail into one of the holes and place it on the center mark from Step 4. Drive the nail in to hold the lattice in place. This will serve as a larger drawing compass to create 30-inch circle.

6

Place a pencil in the other hole and draw a circle around the table top using the lattice as a drawing compass. Cut the circle with a band saw for the best result. Sand the edges and the top of the table top with the belt sander and a 100-grit sanding belt.

How to Decorate Your Shadow Box Coffee Table

Decorating a shadow box coffee table doesn't have to be difficult, but it requires a moderate amount of planning. You and your guests will be viewing this coffee table every time you have a seat, making it important that you decorate it to its fullest potential. Shadow boxes give you the opportunity to create illusions, making objects inside of them appear as if they're coming toward the viewer. Photographs and souvenirs are common shadow box items that are easy to decorate with, and give visitors an idea of what home sweet home is to you. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Lay out the objects you plan to use in your shadow box to determine how many items you need to fill the space.

2

Glue a foam square to the back of each photograph you are going to use, no larger than 1/3 of the size of the picture. Use the glue gun for this. Try to center the square to keep it from being visible. Allow the glue to dry for one to two minutes.

3

Place the photos in the shadow box according to your layout plan. The foam squares will give your photos elevation and a shadow of their own in the display. While using foam is optional, it's a great way to make photos more eye-catching.

4

Place other trinkets and small souvenirs around the photos in the shadow box according to your layout plan. Souvenir spoons, seashells and even tickets to events make great conversation starters.

How Should I Paint My Kitchen Table?

Whether restoring an antique to glory or working with a new, unfinished piece, painting the kitchen table can bring a whole new life to the kitchen. Amateurs working correctly and with patience and care can achieve the same professional results admired in showrooms. And doing it yourself gives you the freedom to do exactly what you want in creating the perfect kitchen table. Does this Spark an idea?

Preparation

Unless the kitchen table is a new, unfinished piece of wood, it will need to be prepared before painting. Newly purchased unfinished wood furniture is usually ready for painting, so you can skip the sanding part and start with primer application.

Otherwise, Step 1 is to sand the table to remove any old finishes and paint. This is a big job, so it is advisable to use a rotary sander instead of attempting to sand the entire table by hand. Start with 100 grit sandpaper to remove old paint from wooden furniture. After sanding, wipe with a damp cloth, allow to dry, and sand again with finer grit paper, up to 220. Last, be sure to wipe down the table with a soft, clean cloth to remove all sawdust, dust or dirt.

Step 2 is to apply one coat of primer in long, even strokes. Primer does not require any tint or color added, but if the kitchen table will be a dark color, primer can be tinted gray. Just like paint, primer is available in both water-based and oil-based varieties. Different professional and amateur painters prefer oil or water for different reasons.

Oil- Vs. Water-Based Primer and Paint

A kitchen table gets a lot of use and must be durable. For this reason, many painters would recommend an oil-based primer. Oil-based primers and paints take more wear and tear than water-based.

Oil-based paints, however, are more difficult to use than water-based paints because they do not clean up with soap and water. Expect to clean brushes with a little turpentine or other solvent.

Oil-based paints have a longer cure time. Allow at least a week after painting before using the table as usual.

On the other hand, some experts recommend using a water-based enamel primer on wood furniture. Enamel gives a more durable finish than other water-based primers.

If you greatly prefer water-based paints, you can still use an oil-based primer. No matter what, allow primer to dry thoroughly before applying paint.

Apply at least two coats of paint, three if the color is especially dark. Allow paint to dry between coats or you will have bubbles form in the paint surface.

For a kitchen table, apply two topcoats of polyurethane finish after painting. This gives the table extra protection and durability. Again, always let it dry between coats.

Color

Think carefully about color before painting the kitchen table. White will always make a room look bigger and brighter, but other colors can set a good and appropriate mood in the kitchen.

For example, red is said to increase appetite. Soft yellow is thought to make people feel happy, and bright yellow accents make a kitchen feel bigger.

Consider carefully the color scheme in your kitchen. Try a very light or pastel color for basic surfaces, and trim with a darker tint of the same shade.

A kitchen table is the focal point of the kitchen; it is where people meet and enjoy dining together. The color of a painted kitchen table should be bright and inviting.

What Kind of Paint to Use on Plastic Cups?

Deciding what kind of paint to use on plastic usually leaves people staring blankly at the shelves in the craft store. There are so many factors to consider. It depends on the type of craft project, but the ultimate goal is durability. Paint flaking or chipping off of your plastic cups is not the look you want.

Types

Acrylic paint is easy to work with as it works on a variety of surfaces, which can make it a good choice for plastic cups. Just as versatile as the many surfaces it covers, acrylic paint comes in different consistencies for different uses. If you are going to use an airbrush to spray the entire cup, there is a thinner, watery version of the paint. However, if you plan to paint designs on your cup, there is a thicker acrylic paint with a butter-like texture.

Specially Made

Acrylic paint has been around since the 1950s. A more recently developed product--designed for plastic--is called "Paint for Plastic." According to plaid.com, this durable paint adheres to plastic objects, such as cups, and will not crack or chip. It's water-resistant and non-toxic, so it's perfect for your cups if you plan to use them for drinking.

Flexible Plastic

Plastic that is flexible has been a challenge to paint because it doesn't adhere very well. If your cups are flexible, the trick is to use primer first, before applying the paint, and then apply a sealer over your design for protection from chips and scratches. According to Michael's, an arts and crafts store, Paint for Plastic is designed to work on flexible plastic objects where other kinds of paints fail.

Usage

Use acrylic spray paint for larger items. Using a brush for larger items would be more labor-intensive and take much longer. The thicker consistency acrylic paint and the Paint for Plastic can be used on smaller surfaces with a brush to make decorative designs. Their thicker texture will make your designs pop.

Cute Breakfast Nook Ideas

The breakfast nook serves an important function in a household--it's where families gather to eat. Some families eat almost exclusively in a nook and only use a dining room for special occasions. With so much use, the breakfast nook should be a space that everyone can enjoy. This space should accommodate the whole family comfortably without stealing space from the kitchen, which still needs room for food preparation, cooking and washing dishes. Does this Spark an idea?

Distinct Floor Covering

One cute way to make a breakfast nook look like its own room is to use distinct floor covering to set the space apart. If the kitchen floor is tile or linoleum, you could use carpeting or an area rug in the breakfast nook to provide visual contrast. If, by chance, your kitchen floor is carpeted, you could add a hard space in the nook with a wood pad or a plastic mat like those used to protect carpets in high-traffic areas.

Round Table

Breakfast nooks can be small, so fitting in seating for the whole family can be a challenge. A small round table with chairs that slide at least partially underneath offers a cute solution for a tight space. You could also choose a high-top table with matching bar stools or backless chairs that fit under the table.

Built-In Table

Just like a Murphy bed makes a den into an instant guest bedroom, a built-in breakfast table is a cute way to use nook space. Create a built-in table using lumber, reclaimed marble or other solid materials. An even cuter space-saving alternative is a tabletop that folds down out of the way when the support beam underneath slides to the side.

How to Repaint a Shabby, Chic Furniture Table

Shabby chic describes an interior design style that brings vintage and faux vintage pieces together to create a cozy cottage atmosphere. Search for furniture and fabrics at thrift stores, yard sales and estate sales. Overpainted, well-worn furniture is especially right for this design. Turn more modern furniture items, like dressers and furniture tables, into shabby chic decor after applying some faux painting techniques to make them look aged. Start with a small side table and transform it to a shabby chic piece to be proud of. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Set up your painting station in a well-ventilated area and assemble the items you'll be using. Choose a space in the garage or outside in the shade where the project will be undisturbed, because it will need to dry between coats of paint.

2

Sand the surface of the table using the medium grade sandpaper. Rough up the surface just a little; don't try to take the existing paint off. Shabby chic furniture has been painted numerous times and the multiple paint layers will eventually show through. Wipe off any sawdust with a dry cloth.

3

Paint the entire table using the dark acrylic paint. Use a single coat and use long, even strokes so the paint won't dry with ridges or drips. Allow the dark coat of paint to dry on the table for 24 hours.

4

Apply the crackle glaze onto the entire table. Use thin, even strokes that all go in the same direction. Put the glaze on thick for large paint cracks to appear, or thinner for small, hairline paint cracks. Allow the glaze to dry for 2 hours.

5

Paint the top layer of the table with the white acrylic paint. Concentrate on smooth, even paint application because there should only be one coat. Watch as the paint forms tiny cracks all over as it dries over the crackling glaze. Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours.

6

Sand down some parts of the table to create scuffs and worn patches, using the fine grade sandpaper. Use pressure so that all the layers of paint underneath are exposed. Concentrate on corners and edges where a vintage table would naturally have time-worn distress. Wipe any dust away with a cloth.

How to Clean Nail Polish Off Wood Table

Nail polish is a type of lacquer, which is a clear or colored polymer dissolved in a solvent base. As the solvent evaporates it leaves an extremely hard coating which can be anywhere from matte to glossy. When nail polish dries on furniture it can be extremely difficult to remove. The process of removing lacquer essentially involves re-introducing a solvent which the lacquer polymer will re-dissolve in. It can then be wiped up. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Make sure you have adequate ventilation. Carefully apply the nail polish remover or lacquer thinner to the nail polish. Allow it to sit on the stain for a few minutes and then wipe it off. If nail polish is still present repeat this Step.

2

Purchase lacquer thinner at a local hardware store, or nail polish remover in the cosmetic section of a local department store. Cosmetic nail polish remover is simply a small bottle of lacquer thinner.

3

Mix the lacquer thinner with plain wood alcohol at a one to one ratio when removing nail polish from a stained or painted table. Undiluted thinner may take some of the table finish off as well. Diluting the thinner causes it to work slower. It will take a little longer to dissolve the nail polish, but it will also take longer to get into the wood finish.

4

Wipe the affected area with a soft rag and clean water to remove any solvent residue once the nail polish has been removed.

The Chandelier Height to Table

Chandeliers are an ideal addition to dining rooms and kitchen nooks, but they can be tricky to hang. Learning the proper height to hang your chandelier ensures that the fixture will fit the space correctly. Does this Spark an idea?

Ceiling Height

Chandeliers hanging from an 8-foot ceiling should be 30 inches above the table. If the ceiling is higher than 8 feet, the chandelier should hang 32 inches from the table's top. This method is standard and can apply to all chandelier types.

Diaphanous Fixtures

Traditional and contemporary chandeliers with a see-through skeleton, with multiple arms, can hang lower at 28 to 32 inches above the table because their openness creates the illusion of space.

Solid Fixtures

Solid, bowl-like chandeliers can hang slightly higher because their solid shape is bulky. Consider hanging bowl-like chandeliers at 34 to 36 inches above the table and make adjustments to height depending upon the ceiling's height.

Chandelier Height

The chandelier's height should be approximately 3 inches high per foot of ceiling height, or 24 inches for an 8-foot ceiling and half the diameter of the dining table in width to fit properly into the space.

Chandelier Hardware

The simplest chandeliers to adjust are those that hang from the ceiling by a chain. Chains can be adjusted and links can be removed to allow the chandelier to hang properly.

Decorating With Table Runners

Creating your own style is all about looking at things in a different light. Find different purposes for everyday items and you just might create a beautiful piece of art that exceeds its original purpose. Incorporating table runners into your home dcor is a great way to personalize it. There are so many of these long rectangular table coverings that can be found everywhere from high end home stores to discount stores. If you find a table runner that you just have to have, you can find some way to use it, even if it's not traditional. Does this Spark an idea?

On the Table

The most obvious way to use a table runner for decorating is to place it on a table. If you have a nice, high-quality wooden dining table, you may not want to cover all that great natural wood grain. However, a bare wooden table is begging for some kind of dcor to accent it. Placing a beautiful table runner down the middle of it will create some visual interest on the table without hiding the warm woodwork. You can usually spend less money on a table runner than on a traditional tablecloth, and still get great quality. If you have a variety of table runners to choose from, they can be changed with the seasons and holidays. They also act as a protective barrier if you want to place a centerpiece on the table without having to worry about scratches and damage.

Furniture Protection

Table runners don't just have to be for a formal dining room table. You can also use them to decorate furniture like a coffee table, hallway table or dresser top. A machine-washable table runner placed on top of a dresser or vanity top will protect the surface from damage from cosmetics, nail polish, lotions and other beauty products. When you spill anything on it, simply throw it in the washing machine. Placing a table runner on top of a coffee table or other table will protect the furniture from water rings from those who forget coasters. This is also a great idea if you have pets like cats that tend to claim furniture as their own and leave it with unsightly scratches.

Wall Art

Have you ever come across a beautiful table runner in a department store, but it just doesn't fit your dining room decorating style? Maybe it would look great in your living room, but you have no place to put it. One creative idea for incorporating a table runner into your dcor is to have it framed. Take the runner to a custom frame shop and have it set in a stylish frame that complements it. Then you have the freedom to hang it wherever it looks good in your house. You can hang it vertically or horizontally, so it can fit in many different places. When you get bored of the design, just switch it out for another table runner of the same size.

How to Build a Kitchen Island Table

Most people could use a little more counter top space in their kitchen. Islands are a great way to go, but custom can be extremely expensive and kits don't always look so good. Here's an alternative that's equally functional and great looking. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

The Plan

1

Measure your kitchen. Translate the layout of your kitchen to graph paper, using the biggest scale possible that still fits on one page.

2

You must have enough room between your cabinets and the table to work. Thirty-six inches is nice, and anything less than 30 is too cramped. Also make sure you have enough room to open any appliances (e.g., refrigerator or dishwasher) and any doors.

3

Try it out on the graph paper. Think like the chef. If you're not the primary cook in your home, bring that person in on the process. It will save you grief later. Also remember, the kitchen island table should be at least 24 inches wide.

4

Now that you've agreed upon size and positioning, move on to section 2.

Building your Kitchen Island Table

5

Cut 5 3/4-inch lumber to length for top. For example: if your kitchen island table is 60 inches long and 35 1/2 inches wide, you would cut 6 planks to 60 inchs long.

6

Sand the long 1 3/4 edges of the planks you just cut.

7

Attach the planks together using either pocket screws or biscuits and clamp making sure all edges and both top and bottom are flush. If you are pocket screwing, clamp before screwing together. If you are using biscuits, clamp after. Set the top aside to dry/set.

8

Make cuts for the frame:
- cut (4) legs to 34 1/4 inches high
- cut (4) 2 3/4 inch x 3/4 inch planks to length (if your top is 60 inches x 35 1/2 inches and your legs are 3 inches x 3 inches make this cut 50 inches long).
- cut (4) 2 3/4 inch x 3/4 inch planks to length (using the above example these will be 25 1/2 inches).
- cut (1) 2 3/4 inch x 3/4 inch plank to length (using the same example this will be 30 inches).

9

Sand all surfaces. If the top is ready, remove the clamps and sand the top and all edges.

10

Turn the legs upside down and attach (2) longer and (2) shorter 2 3/4-inch x 3/4-inch planks flush with the top. Using the above example you will now have a 56 inch x 31 1/2 inch box with the legs at the corners. Make sure you are square.

11

Attach the 30 inch-long 2 3/4-inch x 3/4-inch plank across the center of the frame (3/4-inch side up and down) using pocket screws. Make sure it is flush with the top.

12

Attach the other (2) longer and (2) shorter planks to the legs with the top the planks 9 1/4 inches from the bottom of the legs. Make sure you are level and square.

13

Cut the 5 3/4-inch x 3/4-inch planks to length for the shelf. Use the jigsaw to cut in around the legs. Make the shelf equal to the dimension of the frame. Sand the shelf planks. Attach using pocket screws.

14

If you are painting or staining the Kitchen Island Table one color, skip to Step 11. If the top and the frame are to be separate colors, stain or paint now. Let dry.

15

Set the top face down on the floor. Use cardboard or a sheet to prevent scratching the surface. Set the frame upside down on the top. Make sure you are centered and square. The top will be 2 inches longer and wider on each side. Attach using pocket screws. If you haven't painted or stained the table, do it now.

16

Flip the kitchen island table over and set in place.

17

Invite some people over so you can show it off.

Furniture Arrangement Ideas for Corridor Rooms

When furnishing a corridor room, you need to shorten the look of the length and widen the look of the width. Using a bigger piece of furniture, such as a couch or bed, works well as long as it neatly fits within the width of the room. Smaller and thinner furniture can be placed along the longer walls of the corridor. The placement of area rugs will also help in changing the effect of the room. Does this Spark an idea?

Sofas

Use a sofa in a corridor room only if it will fit neatly within the width of the space. Do not put it lengthwise in the corridor because it will accentuate this closed-in space. Corridor rooms need to be softened as much as possible so it does not resemble a hallway. An overstuffed couch that is short in length will do the trick.

Tables

Place tall and thin tables along the corridor room walls lengthwise. Depending on the size of the room, one or two taller oblong tables will keep the width from being closed in. The tables will give you a place to display artwork, baskets or any other items to make the room looked lived in. Stackable end tables will also work for a room this shape, giving you plenty of table space when needed while supplying their own storage system when they are not in use.

Sleeping

Futons would work well in a corridor room if it needs to double as a bedroom or guest room. A thin-framed futon that can fit widthwise along a wall would not crowd the room. Futons allow the best of both worlds, supplying a substitute for a couch and then turning into a bed when needed. Center a double bed on one wall that goes the width of the corridor if there is room. Do not use a headboard or foot board; they just add bulk. You want the room scaled down as much as possible. If a twin bed will fit in the corridor widthwise against a wall, you can dress it up like a couch with pillows along the wall as a back rest.

Rugs

Place two smaller round area rugs, side by side, in the middle of the corridor room. If you use a rectangular rug, it will just accentuate the length and the lack of width to this room. You can use two smaller rectangular throw rugs side by side but lay them across the width of the room to help widen the corridor.

Bean Bags

Arrange two bean bag chairs next to a short simple end table as a sitting area. The bean bag chairs are short enough and will not obstruct the view of the other furnishings in the corridor room. They can go along the long walls of the corridor without making the room looked closed in.

How to Build an Old Fashioned Eating Table

A rustic and interesting dining room or kitchen table is an excellent accent for a farmhouse or modern home. Thick, sturdily constructed old-fashioned dining tables are able to endure many years of abuse from a growing family, can easily be resurfaced if desired, and can quickly be disassembled for convenient transportation. A rustic styled, old-fashioned eating table will only improve in appearance as it ages, becoming more distressed and authentically weathered with time. Great for both parties and day-to-day use, a well-built table is sure to be treasured as it passes on from generation to generation. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Lay the six foot boards parallel to each other and press them together so that they form a surface 4 feet by 6 feet. Space the eight support boards perpendicularly to the tabletop, flat and evenly spaced, with the end boards 6 inches from the ends of the table.

2

Predrill two evenly spaced holes down through each support board and each tabletop board, so that there are eight evenly spaced holes in each support board and 16 in each tabletop board. Bind the boards together using 1 1/2-inch wood screws, keeping the tabletop boards pressed firmly together.

3

Place the 5-feet boards parallel to the tabletop boards and on top of them, so that the 1-inch surface touches the 6-feet boards and the 4-inch surface on each board is flush against the opposite end of the supports. Predrill a hole through the 5-feet board into each end of the supports and secure with 1 1/2-inch wood screws.

4

Set the 37-inch boards perpendicular to the 5-feet boards, with the 1/2-inch surface flush to the 6-feet boards of the tabletop, and one of the 4-inch surfaces on each board up against the side of the end support boards, so that the boards of Steps 2 and 3 create a smaller rectangle inside the larger rectangle of the tabletop.

5

Predrill, evenly, four holes through the bottom of the 37-inch board and into the support board behind. Attach together in the predrilled holes using 1 1/2-inch wood screws.

6

Position one of the 2-by-4-inch leg boards in the inside corner of the tabletop, with the end of the leg flush with the tabletop, the 2-inch end facing the long side of the table, and the 4-inch end facing the short side of the table. Push the 2-inch side and the 4-inch side of the board flush with the sides of the tabletop.

7

Predrill four evenly spaced holes through the short side of the tabletop and into the leg in a square pattern, then secure with 1 1/2-inch wood screws. Repeat for all four legs.

Types of Chairs for a Farmhouse Table

Farmhouse tables are rustic and country dcor items that can accommodate a variety of chair types. You might even wish to mix different chair types around one table. Does this Spark an idea?

Spindle-back Chair

Spindle-back chairs have two vertical posts with five small vertical wooden rods spaced between them. The spindles are held together with two horizontal slats, one at the top and one at the bottom.

Wheat-back Chair

Wheat-back chairs are similar to the spindle back, but the spindles appear pulled together in the middle to achieve the look of a sheath of wheat.

Ladder-back Chair

Ladder-back chairs have a tall back made up of three or more horizontal slats secured between two vertical post.

Bench Chairs

Bench chairs are long and are made to accommodate two or more people. There may or may not be a back on a farm table bench chair.

Seat Bottoms

Seat bottoms are made of rush, wooden slats or solid wood.

Finish

Each chair can be finished in black paint, white paint, milk wash, clear polyurethane or left natural. The black and white paint can be distressed.

How to Select a Dining Table for a Small Space

An overly small dining room, such as one that is just off the kitchen or a dining area in an apartment, can be tough to furnish. The main concern for furnishing the room is likely the dining room table. You might not be sure about what size dining room table to select for your small space. By following a few simple guidelines, you'll be able to find a table that fits your needs and that does not overwhelm your dining area. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure the dimensions for the space. Even if the dining area is not a separate room, get accurate measurements for the total length and width of the space.

2

Opt for a round table. In a small space, a round dining table will seem less overwhelming.

3

Look for dining tables that allow you to have about 48 inches from the table to the wall or other furniture pieces all the way around. This will give you plenty of space to put chairs around the table and pull them in and out with ease.

4

Try to purchase a dining set rather than just a table. The set will come with chairs, too, so you don't need to worry about measuring them. In addition, you'll be sure that the table and chairs will fit nicely in your small space.

Lighting a Dark Hallway

Lighting is a critical element to any space. For safety reasons, its especially true for hallways. Even when youve lived in a space for some time, it can be hazardous when passing through a dark hallway. Fortunately, lighting options and decorative techniques abound to turn a dark hallway into a well-lit one for a safe traveling path. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Start with the right color of paint. Opt for lighter shades to open up a hallway space and to create any airy rather than dark and drab atmosphere. Choose tones of cream, beige or even a crisp linen white. Avoid deep browns, grays or dark wallpaper treatments.

2

Use wall scones to add a fashionable but functional lighting element to a dark hallway. Arrange them in groups of three on either side or both sides of the hallway for a harmonious look. Take measurements of the hallway before installing to allow for sufficient spacing between the pieces.

3

Plug in a nightlight along the hallway for a simple and economical solution to lighting up the space.

4

Place a table lamp on a narrow console table, only if the hallway is sufficiently wide to allow at least four feet of space on the other side to prevent being obtrusive in the space.

5

Install track lighting, especially in long hallways, to light the area without being obtrusive. Choose a unit with a dimmer option for greater control over light intensity.

6

Install recessed lighting for a contemporary and uncluttered look; it is ideal for hallways with a low ceiling.

How to Remove Dust From a Glass Coffee Table

Your glass coffee table adds charm to your living room, but it also attracts a lot of dust. With the table top being glass, the dust is especially visible. Spraying it with window cleaner and wiping it clean with paper towels doesn't always do the trick to get rid of the dust. Sometimes it just spreads it around on the surface. Remove dust from your glass coffee table quickly using the right products and cleaning methods. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Wipe off as much dust as you can with a dry, lint-free cloth.

2

Fill a clean, empty spray bottle with 1 cup of water. Add 1 cup of rubbing alcohol and 1 tbsp. of white vinegar. Put the lid on the spray bottle and shake the solution up well.

3

Spray the glass coffee table with a generous coating of the cleaning solution. Wad up some newspaper and wipe the glass in a circular motion. Switch to a clean wad of newspaper as one becomes wet or filled with dust.

4

Wipe over the glass table a final time with a clean, dry wad of newspaper to remove any streaks or lingering dust.

How to Get Rid of Water Stains on Wood Finish

Wood furniture, whether it is an antique side table or a modern coffee table, adds beauty and warmth to any home. It doesn't matter if the piece is expensive and ornate or a yard sale treasure, an unsightly ring will form if a dripping drinking glass is set on top. Removing these water marks is accomplished with items found inside the kitchen pantry. Once removed, protect your wood pieces by putting out a few coasters, and encouraging everyone to use them. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Squeeze approximately 2 tbsp. toothpaste, not gel, into a small bowl.

2

Add 2 tbsp. baking soda to the bowl and mix the two ingredients.

3

Dip a cotton swab into the baking soda and toothpaste concoction.

4

Rub the water mark with the cotton swab. Using pressure and small overlapping circles, continue to rub until the mark is completely gone.

5

Wipe off the toothpaste mixture with a damp cloth and polish the furniture as you normally would.

Splurge & Steal: Hollywood Chic Living Room

How to Test Authentic Antiques for Original Paint

There are a number of things that can shape the value of an antique or collectible. Two of the most common are the condition of the antique and how much of it is original. Sometimes, antiques have been highly restored or repainted. This can cause them to lose value. Therefore, when buying antiques, it is important to know what you're looking at, and to be able to determine whether an object has been repainted.

Instructions

1

Look for signs of age. On antiques, the quality of the paint should have degraded at least a small amount. This applies to all types of antiques. Most collectors are going to be okay with small imperfections or a little faded paint. If a paint job appears too perfect, there is a good chance that the object has been repainted.

2

Inspect the joints and corners of the antique. Also, check such places as the insides of drawers and the undersides of the furniture. These areas are often difficult to paint and are where mistakes usually will show up. Look for more than one color of paint, which indicates that the antique has been repainted.

3

Scratch the paint of the antique lightly with a knife in a place that is not easily visible. Again, undersides, backsides or the inside are good choices. Gently flake away the paint. If the object has been repainted, you will usually be able to see additional layers underneath the top coat.

4

Research the item that you are looking at in depth. You should be able to find out such information as what colors were used in the original paint schemes for that item. If you can't find this information on the Internet or in resource books, a good antique dealer should be able to tell you what colors were used when painting the item that you are researching. If you are looking at an item painted a different color, it should raise a red flag.

How to Mix Furniture Styles

Confining your decor to a particular period or style can feel restrictive and stuffy, but freely mixing styles poses a number of unique design problems. Putting together tables, chairs, cabinets, beds and other pieces from different cultures, times and places while still managing to make your design look unified and artistic takes patience and the willingness to experiment until you get things right. When you finally manage to make your antique items harmonize with your modernist additions, it will all be worth the effort. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Unify furniture by theme. Often, different styles will have similar design characteristics which can make them fit together. For example, art nouveau furniture often features ornate designs taken from nature, something which it shares with a lot of classical Oriental furniture. Place an art deco coffee table near an Oriental cabinet, and put up ornate pencil drawings or paintings of birds or trees to help unify the nature theme.

2

Put furniture pieces with similar sizes or proportions in the same room. Low-slung chairs and tables from a variety of styles, combined with short, squat lamps will look good in a room together, since they will create a unified feeling. Similarly, tall, narrow chairs, high tables and cabinets and towering floor lamps will fit together in a high-ceiling room even if they are from a variety of different periods.

3

Combine pieces with the same or complementary colors, or reupholster some items to make them work with others. Combine Shaker, mission and other wooden furniture with similar wood tones. Use colorful throws and pillows with a backdrop of blankets and tapestries on the walls to unite couches and love seats from different styles.

4

Arrange your furniture in patterns to make it look intentional and not thrown together. For example, a mission table with one acrylic chair pulled up to it might look odd and sloppy. Put a number of acrylic chairs around it, however, and it will look like a bold and unconventional design.

The Best Chair Height for a Bar Table

Different table heights require different chair seat heights. In order to sit and eat or work comfortably at a table, the chair seat height must be approximately 10 to 12 inches shorter than the tabletop height. If the chair is taller, the tabletop will be too close to your knees; if it's lower, the tabletop will feel as though it's at your chin. Luckily for consumers, furniture manufacturers have standardized the table heights and the chair seat heights that correspond with them. Does this Spark an idea?

Chairs for Bar-Height Tables

The eating and working surface of a bar-height table is approximately 40 to 42 inches from the floor. Bar-height chair and stool seats measure 29 to 30 inches from the floor, which falls in line with the 10-to-12-inch rule of thumb. If the bar chair has armrests, make sure they're low enough to fit under the table rather than bump into it.

Chairs for Extra-Tall Bar-Height Tables

Though not as commonly used as standard bar-height tables, extra-tall bar-height tables are about 48 inches from the floor. Therefore, the seat height that works for them is about 36 to 38 inches from the floor. Extra-tall tables and chairs may be difficult to find. Look for them at specialty bar stool shops and restaurant supply companies, or try an online search.

Chairs for Counter-Height Tables

Counter height is typically 36 inches from the floor. If you have a counter-height bar or counter-height table, sometimes called a "gathering table," you'll need counter-height chairs, which have seats that are about 26 inches from the floor. At furniture stores and especially in garage sales or online used furniture sales, counter chairs and stools are sometimes mistakenly marked as bar stools. Measure the seat height to be certain you're purchasing the height you need.

Other Considerations

Standard dining tables measure about 30 inches from the floor; the correct chair seat height for a dining table is around 19 to 20 inches from the floor. Because the seat heights of dining chairs, counter chairs and bar chairs rise incrementally, it can be difficult to tell what you are buying if you go solely by sight. Be safe rather than sorry and bring a tape measure with you on your shopping trip.

How to Design a Banquet Room Layout

Its relatively easy to create an impressive banquet room layout. Ordinary cafeteria-style dining tables and chairs can be dressed up to provide an elegant feel for any occasion. The placement of tables and chairs will affect how guests perceive the event. Use plenty of white tablecloths and appropriate accessories to enhance the room as well. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Clean all floor surfaces. This sets the stage for a well-dressed room and layout. Place the tables in a perfect square or rectangle. Place chairs facing inward. Guests should all face the center of the square or rectangle. If the room is unusually large, create two areas of tables in rectangular or square arrangments. Avoid lining up tables where guests must sit cafeteria-style. This creates less conversation and ability to view others in the room.

2

Arrange dining tables so the speaker or guests of honor stand out. Simply designate one side of the table grouping as the head table. For example, you might seat a bride and groom at a section appointed as the head table. Make their seating area a focal point. Cover their individual chairs with white fabric or wrap chairs with large satin bows. Or, place special flowers on the table near them.

3

Create a food line along one wall of the banquet room if there is no wait staff. Help guests obtain their food easily and move on to designated seating areas. Keep the drink area to the extreme left or right of the food serving line. Assign seats using place cards. Everything in the room should stay in balance, so arrange tables properly spaced from all entrances, exits and food-serving areas.

4

Keep dining areas away from entertainment areas. Put a live band or musician at one end of the room. Fill space in the center of a table grouping with flowers or art objects. Guests should not view just a bare floor in front of them.

5

Arrange tables in a triangular fashion if the room is small. Have guests face inward and place a band or entertainment group at one end of the room. Keep dining and conversation separate from music or dancing later on.

How to Repair Marks on a Wood Table

The dining or kitchen table is the heart of the home. Meals, homework, crafts, and family game night all take place on this home furnishing. Scratches and coffee rings can ruin the perfection of a beautiful wood table. Getting the piece back into pristine shape can be frustrating and time consuming. Complete refinishing will remove any marks, but there are simpler and less toxic methods of preserving a wood table. Whether it's a water mark or a scratch, simple refurbishing will bring out the luster of your wood table.

Instructions

1

Use a soft, clean cloth and a wax buildup remover formulated for wood. Rub with the grain of the wood and wipe clean with another clean cloth. The marks may just be in the wax and will go away when it is removed. It this is the case, apply another coat of dusting wax, and the table will look good as new. If marks remain, there are still a few tricks to try to remove them.

2

Apply a touch-up pen to scratches. It will have to be in the color or stain that is on the table. Simply use like a pen and fill in the scratch. Use a clean cloth to buff out any extra pigment that has bled out of the scratch. Let it dry, and the scratch will be the same color as the rest of the table. Apply dusting wax to protect the finish.

3

Apply small drops of refurbishing oil to a steel wool pad or directly to the table. A little will go a long way. Rub the oil in the direction of the wood grain with the steel wool. You don't need to scrub hard. The fine steel wool will open up the grain of the wood and work in the oil. The oil comes in basic wood finish colors, so make sure yours matches. There is also a neutral color that works well on all types of wood. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off any excess oil. Finish with dusting wax and buff well.

4

Apply mayonnaise to a coffee ring or water spot. Rub the mayonnaise in with a clean, soft rag in the direction of the wood grain. Let it sit on the table overnight. In the morning, wipe clean with another soft rag. This will remove all but the most stubborn water damage. You can also try rubbing in a paste of equal parts white toothpaste and baking soda. You will really have to work this in. Let it stand for 20 minutes, then wipe clean with a fresh rag.

How to Prevent Water Marks on a Table

White rings and marks on the surface of a wooden table are telltale signs of heat and moisture stains. They develop when wood comes in contact with a wet, drippy glass or hot, steamy dish long enough for the moisture to absorb into the wood. Attempts to remove the water marks from the surface are futile because the stain lies within the wood. The best tactic to prevent water marks on your table is to protect the surface from heat and moisture. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Polish the wood table with an appropriate wax to give it a protective coat. Wax keeps the table top safe from minor scratches and slows down the absorption of moisture by providing a water-resistant coat.

2

Cover your dining table with a padded table cover. These typically have padding similar to that of an ironing board pad, proving a cushion between the table and eating surface as well as a vinyl or plastic top. Purchase padded table covers at furniture stores.

3




Coasters protect a wood table surface.

Set out coasters and placemats for family and guests to use at mealtimes. Aside from preventing water marks, coasters and placemats also add a decorative touch to your table.

4

Place hot casserole dishes on trivets to keep heat and moisture above the table surface.

5




Using a protective plate or pad under flower vases protects the table.

Put a plate or plant tray beneath vases of flowers or small potted plants kept on the wood table. This prevents water spills or overflow from staining the table.

How to Display Small Items on a Table

If you want a completely minimalist look to your house or apartment, you won't want clusters of clutter spoiling the expanse of clean, simple lines. However, for those who prefer some detail and distraction in the decor, use knickknacks, trinkets or other collected items as display material. Try not to use as much as the Victorians, who barely left sufficient room to swing a bustle, but use just enough to create pockets of interest. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Display an assortment of picture frames filled with images of family and friends as a mini gallery. Set them out on a piece of furniture, which can be anything from a grand piano to a table top. Keep larger frames at the back and grade them down to the smallest at the front, including any miniatures or cameos that you can lay flat.

2

Display rocks, crystals and stones so you and others can admire their texture and beauty. Use a large metal charger, or paint a large plate in silver or gold, and arrange them on that. Put the charger on a table and add a couple of tea lights so that when lit in the evening, they flicker on the lines and facets of the stones. Add two or three pieces of sparkling glass to add to the effect.

3

Arrange collections of a particular animal together, such as seals, cats or dogs, rather than putting all the animals together in a crowd. For example, group several cats together, even if they consist of different materials or textures. Arrange them so that they are viewable from all sides and not facing the front.

4

Collect a few small tables so that you can mix and match according to your tastes. Small glass-topped tables set off a display well, and you can paint or stain small wooden tables to suit your decor and change the colors when you feel like it. Avoid using table runners, as they might obscure the full effect of a collection of trinkets or frames. However, if you're arranging items on a tray or a charger, you can a table runner in rich fabrics decorated with beads and vibrant colors.