Howcast

How to Make a Woven Vase Out of a Soda Bottle

Howcast — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 13:15:52 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Cut off the top Cut off the top of the bottle, at the top of the bottle’s smooth section, to make an even edge about 3 inches above where the fluted rim will be.
TIP: Use a green bottle for accented color.
Step 2: Cut strips Wrap the measuring tape around the bottle, mark and cut evenly-spaced strips down from the top of the bottle, about 3 inches long. Then cut the strips in half once, and in half again, so that you have thin, even strips all the way around the bottle.
Step 3: Bend the strips Carefully bend the strips outward, making a level edge around the top of the bottle. Turn the bottle upside down and press it against a flat surface to make sure the rim is even.
TIP: Make sure the creases are regularized for a symmetrical vase.
Step 4: Weave the rim Weave one strip over the one next to it and then under the following two, creasing it so that its tip is at the base of the third strip.
Step 5: Bend and crease the next one Bend and crease the strip you wove over with the first strip, and fold it over the next two and under the following one.
Step 6: Bend and crease the third strip Bend and crease the third strip the same way as the first one — over one and under two.
Step 7: Keep bending Continue weaving the strips in this alternating pattern until only three strips are left. Tuck each of the last three under the next strip until they’re tucked in completely.
Step 8: Add weight Add marbles, beach glass, or stones to your vase to weigh it down so that it doesn’t fall over. And when you get tired of your vase or want to redecorate, simply recycle it.
FACT: Americans use 4 million plastic bottles every hour.

You Will Need

20-ounce plastic soda bottle
Scissors
Measuring tape
Marker
Flat surface
Marbles
beach glass
or stones
Green plastic soda bottle (optional)

How to Make a Soda Bottle Rocket

Howcast — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 07:45:37 +0000

Instructions

: Children under 12 should not use the rocket without adult supervision.
Step 1: Put on the o-ring Push one end of the 1/2-inch pipe all the way in to one of the bottles. Pull it out 1/4 inch, and trace the opening of the bottle on the PVC. Remove the bottle, file a shallow groove in the pipe along the line, and slide the o-ring into the groove.
Step 2: Assemble the elbow Drill a 1/4-inch hole in the PVC end cap. Use PVC cement to fasten it into the elbow, and epoxy the hose barb mender into the hole in the end cap. Then, glue the open end of the elbow to the end of the PVC pipe opposite the o-ring.
Step 3: Prepare the tubing Epoxy the threadless side of the bicycle tire valve stem to one end of the vinyl tubing. Attach the other end of the tubing to the hose barb using the hose clamp.
Step 4: Assemble the 1-inch pieces Glue the 1-inch PVC collar to the 1-inch pipe. Use the hacksaw to cut two semi-circular notches around the collar 3/4-inch from the end. Make sure the ends of the notches are about an inch apart.
Step 5: Attach the eyebolts Drill three holes in the 1-inch collar around the end opposite the notches and screw in the bolts about a half an inch.
Step 6: Prepare the coat hanger With the hacksaw cut the bottom out of a wire coat hanger. Bend the two remaining arms down so they’re parallel and about an inch apart, forming a narrow “U.” Tie a piece of kite string to the hook.
Step 7: Make the rocket Cut off the bottoms of two 2-liter soda bottles and securely tape the open ends together. Keep the bottle cap on one of them. Then create the balsa wood fins. Draw and cut out three parallelograms with 5-inch sides and 4-inch ends and epoxy one of the long sides of them to the bottle with no cap.
TIP: Paint your rocket for a cool custom look.
Step 8: Assemble it Have a partner hold the 1/2-inch PVC upright so the elbow is on the ground. Slide the 1-inch PVC over the 1/2-inch PVC so the collar is pointing up. Fill the rocket 1/3 full with water and slide it onto the 1/2-inch pipe until the o-ring forms a seal with the bottle.
Step 9: Finish assembling Lift the 1-inch pipe until the collar is around the neck of the bottle. Then, put the coat hanger into the notches on the collar so it catches on the bottleneck and holds the 1-inch pipe up. Tighten the eyebolts to secure everything in place.
Step 10: Make the guide wires Tie the ends of each piece of string to an eyebolt and a stake. Then, hammer the stakes into the ground to hold the launch tube up.
Step 11: Launch it! Connect the pump to the valve stem and operate the pump to pressurize the rocket. Pull the string attached to the coat hanger to release the rocket and watch your creation soar!
FACT: Michael Melvill made the first non-government funded flight to space aboard SpaceShipOne in 2004.

You Will Need

48″ piece of 1/2-in. PVC pipe
2 2-liter soda bottles
Pencil
Round metal file
Rubber o-ring
Drill
1/4″ bit
1/2-in. end cap
PVC cement
1/2-in. PVC elbow
Epoxy glue
1/4″ hose barb mender
Bicycle tire valve stem
1/4″ inside diameter vinyl tubing
Hose clamp for 1/4-in. tubing
1-in. PVC collar
12-in. piece of 1-in. PVC pipe
Hacksaw
3 5/16″ x 3″ eyebolts
Coat hanger
4 5′ pieces of kite string
Utility knife
Duct tape
Thin sheets of balsa wood
Partner
3 stakes
Hammer
Bicycle pump
Craft paint (optional)

How to Make Hand Warmers

Howcast — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 13:16:20 +0000

Instructions

: Wear gloves when adding chemicals, as they may cause serious burns.
Step 1: Cut fabric Cut a piece of flannel fabric 8 1/2 inches by 4 1/2 inches, and fold it in half with the short sides of the fabric together.
Step 2: Sew the sides Sew the 2 opposite open sides together with a needle and thread to form a pouch, and turn the pouch inside-out.
Step 3: Fill pouch Fill the pouch 3/4 full with uncooked rice before folding in the open edges 1/4 inch and using an overstitch to sew the top closed.
TIP: Use brown rice rather than white rice to better hold heat.
Step 4: Heat in microwave Heat hand warmers in a microwave oven for 10 seconds before placing them inside your gloves to keep hands warm for up to 120 minutes.
TIP: Avoid overheating hand warmers to prevent burns.
Step 5: Make an alternative Make a wool or felt pouch you fill with ceramic pie weights instead of rice as an alternative method, and increase microwave time to 2 minutes.
Step 6: Make a chemical hand warmer Make a chemical hand warmer by placing a sealable plastic bag inside a second one, and adding 1/2 ounce powdered calcium oxide to the inner bag along with 2 teaspoons water.
Step 7: Seal bags Seal both bags before massaging the contents until you feel warmth, but be prepared to drop the bags in a bucket of cold water if they become too hot. Now, tuck the warmer into gloves and make for the outdoors knowing you’ve beaten Old Man Winter at his own game.
FACT: Frostbite accounted for 10 percent of all American casualties during World War II and the Korean conflict.

You Will Need

Rubber or latex gloves
Flannel
wool
or felt fabric
Scissors
Needle and thread
Rice
Ceramic pie weights
Sealable plastic bags
Calcium oxide
Bucket
Water

How to Give Wood an Antique Look

Howcast — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 12:45:51 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Sand the wood Sand the wood to allow the paint to stick. Use a fine-grit sandpaper. Smooth corners and uneven areas to create a distressed look.
TIP: Use an electric sander to make the process easier.
Step 2: Add marks Add dents and scratches using a hammer, screwdriver, and chisel to give the wood character and add an illusion of wear and tear.
Step 3: Start with a dark base color Use a paintbrush to apply a dark base color sparingly and in a sporadic pattern to convey aging and time-induced water damage. Wipe away any excess paint before it dries.
TIP: The dark base shouldn’t cover the wood completely — just hit the high areas that would see the most damage.
Step 4: Apply your main color Apply your main paint color from the top of the wood toward the bottom. Allow the brush to run dry to create a worn appearance. Use a rag to remove excess paint before it dries.
Step 5: Apply a crackle medium Apply a crackle medium sparingly over the areas that would naturally see sun or water damage. Paint over the dried crackle and allow the paint to chip and crack.
Step 6: Leave it natural Leave the wood unfinished or protect it with a satin or flat finish to give it a muted, antique appearance. Display your newly aged furniture for friends and family to gawk at in wonder.
FACT: The office desk of the President of the United States was carved out of wood from the HMS Resolute, a British ship, and was presented to President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1880 by Queen Victoria.

You Will Need

Sandpaper
Hammer
Screwdriver
Chisel
Paint
Paintbrush
Rag
Crackle medium
Flat or satin finish
Electric sander (optional)

How to Make a Coiled Basket

Howcast — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 15:01:12 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Form a bundle of grass Dampen a pencil-thick bundle of dried marsh grass.
Step 2: Wrap the end of the bundle with raffia Tie raffia to one end of the bundle and wrap the loose end around the bundle about 10 times as you move up its length. Leave a small gap between each wrap.
TIP: When you reach the end of the raffia, lay the end of the first raffia along the bundle of grass, and then place the end of the new strand next to the ends of the old strand. Wind the new raffia around the old until the old raffia is covered.
Step 3: Coil the bundle Bend the bundle around itself tightly so that it forms a coiled circle with the wrapped end at the center and the loose end free.
TIP: When you need to add more grass to the bundle, insert the stem ends of new grasses, a few at a time.
Step 4: Extend the coil Wrap the raffia three times around the uncovered part of the coil, and then use a threaded needle to connect the raffia to the wrapped part with a figure-eight stitch. Pull the stitch tight. Continue sewing figure-eight stitches until the coil is covered and closed.
Step 5: Repeat the same pattern Extend the loop, wrapping the next section of the bundle with raffia and sewing it to the loop underneath with a figure-eight stitch. Continue binding and wrapping at 1-inch intervals as you enlarge the circle.
TIP: Build the coils up gradually over each other at the desired angle to add height to the basket.
Step 6: Finish the basket Attach the final coil end to the previous one with a figure-eight stitch, and then wrap the raffia around the final two rows and the previous row. Thread the raffia back through the figure-eight stitch and cut it free.
FACT: Coiled baskets are used in the Apache Sunrise Ceremony — a rite of passage by which a girl passes from adolescence to womanhood.

You Will Need

Dried marsh grass
Raffia
A no. 18 tapestry needle

How to Choose a Good Fabric Paint

Howcast — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 15:15:58 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Consider fabric Consider the fabric you’ll be working with. Create or buy a swatch book with different textiles in a variety of weights and colors to see how they look with various paints.
TIP: Beginners should start with 100 percent cotton fabric with a high thread count.
Step 2: Use textile paint Use textile paint, which is made specifically for fabric painting. If the color you want is unavailable, make your own by mixing textile medium, available at craft stores, with acrylic or all-purpose paint.
Step 3: Consider tubes Consider fabric paint tubes. The color is squeezed directly onto the fabric, meaning you won’t need a brush. They come in a wide range of colors and finishes, like metallic and glitter, and you can create raised designs.
TIP: Fabric paint tubes are easy to apply and great for children.
Step 4: Try pens Try easy-to-use fabric pens. They’re available in many colors but sometimes require a bit of shaking to get the color flowing.
Step 5: Use pots Use pots or bottles of fabric paint, applied with a brush, if you have good brush control or want a free-form design. Have a variety of brush sizes handy.
Step 6: Mix and match Mix and match various paints, colors, and application methods to come up with your own unique design.
FACT: The word batik, a method of hand-printing textiles using wax, is Indonesian in origin.

You Will Need

Fabric
A swatch book
Textile paint
Textile medium
Fabric paint tubes
Fabric pens
Fabric paint pots and brushes

How to Make Your Own Disco Ball

Howcast — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 14:31:25 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Spray your Styrofoam ball Spray the Styrofoam ball with silver spray paint. This will help disguise any small gaps when you apply the mirror pieces.
TIP: Glass, plastic, and rubber balls can also be used.
Step 2: Glue the mirror pieces Start in the middle of the ball. Glue the mirror pieces in a straight line around the ball. Continue working your way up and down, until the ball is covered. Work on a small section at a time, allowing the glue to dry.
Step 3: Insert wire Insert wire in the shape of a U into the top of the ball for an anchor. Secure it with glue. Hang the ball with nylon string or fishing line.
TIP: Aim a spotlight at the disco ball to produce the best effects.
Step 4: Put on your disco outfit Put on your polyester bell bottoms, your tie-dye shirt, and start dancing to your favorite disco music.
FACT: In 2007, the record for the largest disco ball was set. It measure 24 feet, 1.3 inches in diameter and was displayed at Studio 54 in Belgium.

You Will Need

Styrofoam ball
any size
Silver spray paint
Clear craft glue
Square mirror pieces
Metal wire
Nylon string or fishing line
Disco music
Glass
plastic
or rubber ball (optional)
Spotlight (optional)

How to Build a Marble Roller Coaster

Howcast — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 13:13:01 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Pick a place Pick a place to set up the project that will let you modify it without any problems, and will be out of the way of foot traffic.
Step 2: Make the track Make the track. Different coasters are made out of different materials. Plastic tubing, metal wire, copper tubing, chicken wire, and foam pipe insulation are common track materials.
TIP: Buy a marble roller coaster set that comes with a track so you don’t have to make the track yourself.
Step 3: Support Hold up the coaster with vertical supports. Spread your supports out to keep the coaster open, but make sure they are close enough together to hold up the weight of the track.
Step 4: Set the beginning of the coaster the highest Set the start of the coaster as the highest point of the track. The start is where the marble gains momentum to travel the whole track.
Step 5: Attach the track Attach the track to the support beams by welding, soldering, or gluing with a hot glue gun.
TIP: Always use caution when welding, soldering, or using a hot glue gun.
Step 6: Add declines Add different declines to your roller coaster. Be careful of having too many steep declines as it can cause the marble to go so fast that it flies off the track.
Step 7: Loop the track Bend the track to create loops and corkscrews. Experiment with the marble to see what size and shape loops work best.
Step 8: Drop the marble Drop the marble into the roller coaster and have fun watching it whiz down the track and loop the loops.
FACT: The force you feel pushing against your body when a roller coaster goes through a curve, usually called centrifugal force, is not actually a force. It is your body’s resistance to the train’s change in direction.

You Will Need

Plastic tubing
Metal wire
Copper tubing
Chicken wire
Foam pipe insulation
Supports
Welding torch
Soldering iron
Hot glue gun
Marble
Marble roller coaster set (optional)

How to Strip Wood

Howcast — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:04:13 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Lay down a tarp Protect your floor by spreading a tarp under the piece you will be stripping, unless you are stripping the floor itself. Protect yourself by putting on protective eyewear, clothes that cover all of your skin, and gloves. Make sure you are working either outside or in an area with a lot of ventilation.
Step 2: Remove hardware Remove any hardware from the piece before beginning the process.
Step 3: Apply wood stripper Fill a metal container, such as an old coffee can, with stripper and, with an old, natural-bristle paintbrush, brush stripper onto a small area of the piece. Wait several minutes for the paint to blister.
TIP: Get some fresh air while you wait for the stripper to work on the paint.
Step 4: Scrape old finish Scrape away the blistering paint or varnish with a putty knife, removing reside from the knife by wiping it with old newspaper.
Step 5: Apply steel wool Mix one part lacquer thinner and one part shellac thinner in a container. Then dip a piece of steel wool into the mixture and use the steel wool to remove excess paint from the wood. Wipe off excess goop with an old rag or paper towels.
Step 6: Finish the piece Continue working in small sections until the entire piece is finished and all traces of the previous coat are gone. Allow the piece to dry overnight and then refinish it to your liking. Move your excess chemicals outside to evaporate.
FACT: In 2010, Iceland passed a law prohibiting strip clubs from operating in the country.

You Will Need

Tarp
Protective eyewear
Protective clothing
Gloves
Well-ventilated area
Metal container
Stripper
Paintbrush
Putty knife
Newspaper
Lacquer thinner
Shellac thinner
Steel wool
Old rags or paper towels

How to Make a Towel Cake

Howcast — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:45:48 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Choose decorative towels Choose towels that have an interesting pattern, design, or color to make your cake visually appealing.
Step 2: Make the base Fold the large towels in half lengthwise and roll one of them loosely. Use pins to secure the second folded towel to the end of the first and finish rolling.
Step 3: Continue wrapping towels Fold, wrap, and pin the other towels and stack them vertically from largest to smallest like the tiers of a cake.
TIP: You can get cardboard rounds from a pastry shop and use them to give each layer more stability.
Step 4: Wrap in ribbon Wrap each bundle with the silk ribbon and practice your bow-tying skills to add elegance to the towel cake.
Step 5: Add details Add details, such as real or artificial flowers, small appliques, and other particulars depending on the festive occasion.
Step 6: Top with a gift Top the towel cake with a small gift, such as jewelry, soaps, bath oils, or even an electronic device.
FACT: Scholars have suggested that the 3-tier wedding cake may be based on the shape of the spire of Saint Bride’s Church in London.

You Will Need

2 large towels
Straight pins
2 medium towels
2 small hand towels
Silk ribbon
Flowers
Appliques
Gift
Cardboard rounds (optional)

How to Make a Lanyard

Howcast — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:01:46 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Thread the hook Thread both pieces of cord through the hook, keeping the center of each strand at the hook, pulling at the center of each cord so that you have four ends.
TIP: To hold the hook steady, place a tack into a wall and secure the lanyard hook to the tack.
Step 2: Braid Braid the cord by weaving the piece farthest to your right under the two center cords. Then weave it over the cord on the left.
Step 3: Reverse and tighten Weave the far left cord under the two center cords and then over the top of the right strand. Pull the cords as tight as possible as you go. Maintain a tight weave so the lanyard won’t unravel.
Step 4: Repeat Continue weaving back and forth until you reach the end of the cord. Then knot the ends and cut off any excess cord.
Step 5: Attach keys Add a couple of keys and you’ve got yourself a classic summer camp lanyard.
FACT: Over 11 million people attend more than 1,200 U.S. camps annually.

You Will Need

2 3-4-ft. lengths of lanyard cord
Lanyard hook
Scissors
Keys
Tack (optional)

How to Develop Basic Welding Skills

Howcast — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:31:26 +0000

Instructions

: Always wear protective eye covering and take all necessary precautions when using welding equipment.
Step 1: Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website for an in-depth description of training and skill qualifications for the welding profession.
Step 2: Learn common welder jargon Learn welding jargon by visiting welding websites. “Tacks” are small welds holding metal pieces together. “Filler rods” are metal added to pieces by welding.
Step 3: Get an overview of welding processes Get an overview of welding repair processes like arc welding, spot or seam welding, metal inert gas or MIG welding, and tungsten inert gas or TIG welding.
TIP: Arc welding is the most basic beginners’ learning option and the equipment is the least expensive.
Step 4: Know about basic tools for a beginner Know about basic beginner tools like a right-angle square ruler, a scratch awl to make lines on metal, and an angle grinder to remove excess metal.
TIP: Arc welders use an electrode tool that creates an electric arc to the welding spot.
Step 5: Know about personal protective equipment Learn about work-safety precautions and personal protective equipment like safety gloves, particle masks, leather capes, and welding gloves.
TIP: The lens of an auto darkening helmet automatically darkens to shield the welder’s eyes from an arc welding tool’s bright light.
Step 6: Find welder organization training resources Find training resources through professional welder organizations like the American Welding Society or the Fabricators’ and Manufacturers’ Association.
FACT: The Speedo LZR Racer swimsuit used by Olympics champ Michael Phelps consists of three polyurethane pieces ultrasonically welded together.

You Will Need

Internet access

How to Cut Plexiglas

Howcast — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:01:37 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Measure the shape Measure your shape with a tape measure or ruler and mark it with a pencil. New Plexiglas sheets are typically covered with protective paper. Try to leave as much paper as possible on the Plexiglas to minimize scratching.
Step 2: Prepare to cut the Plexiglas Put on your safety goggles and gloves. Use the scoring knife to lightly score along your cutting lines.
TIP: Plexiglas shards can cut just like glass. Be sure to wear the proper shoes and sweep up the work area when finished cutting.
Step 3: Score and break thin pieces Score the Plexiglas where you want it to break, and then line the sheet up along the edge of a table with the scored side facing up. Sharply bend the Plexiglas down and snap it along the scored line.
Step 4: Cut with a saw Use a table saw or band saw when cutting through Plexiglas that’s more than ¼-inch thick. Clamp down the Plexiglas to prevent slippage.
TIP: Consider using special Plexiglas-cutting blades for your table, circular, or band saw, available at your local hardware store. The blades have many fine teeth and will minimize chipping, cracking, and melting.
Step 5: Sand the edges Sand the edges of your Plexiglas when you’re finished cutting. Use fine grain sandpaper for a smooth finish.
FACT: World War II warplanes were outfitted with Plexiglas cockpits, windows, and gunner turrets.

You Will Need

A tape measure or a ruler
A pencil
Safety goggles
Gloves
A scoring knife
A work table
A table
circular
or band saw
Clamps
Sandpaper
Special Plexiglas-cutting blades (optional)

How to Age Copper

Howcast — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 13:16:24 +0000

Instructions

: Wear rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection when working with commercial cleaning compounds.
Step 1: Clean the surface Remove any dirt, oil, or grease from the surface of the copper object. They will interfere with the chemical action of the aging solution.
TIP: Use a commercial chemical metal cleaner such as trisodium phosphate to clean the surface.
Step 2: Prepare an ammonium chloride solution Add ammonium chloride crystals to water until no more will dissolve, and brush the solution on the thoroughly cleaned copper surface.
TIP: Ammonium chloride crystals are sold commercially as sal ammoniac.
Step 3: Prepare a patina solution Make a patina solution using one cup each of lemon juice, table salt, household ammonia, and vinegar
Step 4: Apply the patina solution to the copper surface Apply the solution to the clean metal surface and allow it to react.
FACT: Did you know? Copper is second only to silver in its ability to conduct electricity, and is an excellent conductor of heat.

You Will Need

Protective gear
A copper object
A commercial metal cleaner
Ammonium chloride crystals
Water
A paintbrush
1 c. lemon juice
1 c. table salt
1 c. household ammonia
1 c. vinegar
Trisodium phosphate (TSP) cleaner (optional)

How to Turn a Paper Clip into a Safety Pin

Howcast — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:15:49 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Straighten the clip Pull the smaller bend from inside the larger bend in the paper clip, straightening the bend closer to the small bend. Then unbend the shorter end, so that your paper clip looks like an umbrella handle.
Step 2: Make the clasp Lay the clip flat and use the pliers to make a 45-degree upward bend in the end of the curled side, 1/8 inch from the tip, to form the clasp for the needle.
TIP: You can make your bends using a ruler and scissors if you don’t have pliers.
Step 3: Bend again Grasp the clip with the pliers just below the clasp bend and make a 90-degree upward bend perpendicular to the long part of the clip. Then squeeze the bend downward to meet the long end.
Step 4: Form the spring Grasp the long, straight part of the paper clip in the center with the pliers, and then wrap the wire twice around the tip of the pliers to make the spring.
Step 5: Tuck the needle into the clasp Tuck the long, straight end of the paper clip — the needle — under the clasp. Make sure you leave enough tension on the spring that the needle presses into the clasp. Now mend that opening and walk around the office confidently.
FACT: Spectacular Bid, the favorite to win the Triple Crown in 1979, likely lost the Belmont because he stepped on a safety pin.

You Will Need

Paper clip
Needle-nose pliers
Ruler (optional)
Scissors (optional)

How to Make Teardrop Chandelier Earrings

Howcast — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 11:15:37 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Set up jig Set up the jig to make the chandelier frame. A jig is a flat base with moveable pegs that you wrap wire around to create different shapes. Position four pegs in a diamond shape.
Step 2: Add peg Add a peg, aligned between the bottom and side peg. Add another peg in the same position on the opposite side for a total of six pegs.
Step 3: Wrap wire Wrap the 20-gauge wire around each peg, starting at the top and moving clockwise. Pull the wire taut and bring it underneath and over each pin for a counter-clockwise wrap. Finish with a second loop on the topmost pin.
TIP: Use consistent tension while wrapping for the best shape.
Step 4: Cut ends Cut the ends close to the top loop with the flush cutters and remove the chandelier frame from the jig. Stretch the frame with your fingers to enable it to fit on an ear wire loop without starting to spring apart.
Step 5: Attach ear wires Attach the premade ear wires between the two loops at the top.
Step 6: String beads String one bead onto a headpin or 24-gauge wire and make a loop above the bead using the roundnose pliers. Open the loop and place it onto one of the loops of the chandelier frame. Repeat until all the chandelier loops have beads dangling from them.
TIP: You can also create a second loop below each bead.
Step 7: Add center dangle Create a longer center dangle by stringing two beads together on a headpin or 24-gauge wire and leaving about 1/2 inch of straight wire at the top before making an eye loop. Attach it to the earwire at the top between the two loops. Repeat these steps for your other earring, and your ears will sparkle!
FACT: Harry Winston’s 60.1 carat diamond drop earrings were ranked by Forbes magazine as one of the ten most expensive pieces of jewelry in the world in 2006, worth an estimated $8.5 million.

You Will Need

Jig
20-gauge wire
Flush cutters
Pre-made ear wires
14 4 to 6 mm beads
Headpins or 24-gauge wire
Roundnose pliers

How to Make a No-Sew Safety Pin Purse

Howcast — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:46:00 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Iron the bandanna Smooth the bandanna over an ironing board and press gently with an iron to remove any wrinkles.
Step 2: Measure the bandanna Measure 8 inches from each corner with the ruler. Then tie a knot at each corner at that point. Make sure the knots are tight.
TIP: Use an additional bandanna or scarf for a longer handle. Roll the bandanna lengthwise and tie two knots at each end to attach the handle to the bag.
Step 3: Create the handles Use a double knot to tie two of the ends together. Repeat with the remaining two ends.
Step 4: Embellish with safety pins Attach safety pins of various sizes to the body of the purse. Attach them at random intervals in a whimsical manner or position them in straight lines for a harder, industrial look.
Step 5: Fill your purse Place your essentials inside the purse. It’s big enough to hold lip gloss, a cell phone, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wallet. Toss it over your shoulder and you’re ready to go!
FACT: American inventor Walter Hunt patented his design for the safety pin in 1849.

You Will Need

Bandanna or scarf
Iron and ironing board
Ruler
Safety pins
Additional bandanna or scarf (optional)

How to Find a Jewelry-Making Class

Howcast — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:46:08 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Focus on the type of jewelry that you want to make Focus on the type of jewelry that you want to make. Bracelets, rings, necklaces, and brooches can be made from varieties of stones and metals. If you can’t decide, take an introductory class for an overview.
Step 2: Visit jewelry magazine and association web sites Visit jewelry magazine and association websites. Many offer extensive lists of teaching venues and individual classes.
Step 3: Decide if you want to be a professional or amateur Decide if you aspire to be a professional or amateur jewelry-maker.
Step 4: Find the right school for aspiring professionals Find the right school if you’re an aspiring professional. Professional jeweler organizations like Jewelers of America and the Gemological Institute of America offer bench certification programs.
TIP: There are bench certification levels, from Bench Jeweler — for jewelry repairs only — to Master Bench Jeweler.
Step 5: Find the right informal jewelry-making class Find the right informal jewelry-making class if you want to learn at your own pace and prefer a more non-commercial emphasis. Attend a local jewelry-making club and ask members about informal classes taught by jewelry professionals.
FACT: Researchers using computer imaging concluded that the Hope Diamond was cut from a larger stone that was part of France’s Crown Jewels.

You Will Need

Introductory class
Internet access
Bench certification program
Jewelry-making club

How to Choose Jewelry-Making Tools

Howcast — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:15:50 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Bend with plier Determine whether your jewelry-making will involve bending. Round-nose pliers are used to bend curves and make loops and chain-nose pliers form right angles. Choose pliers with thin tips.
Step 2: Add wire cutters Add wire cutters if you will be working with metal wire. Flush cutters are precise wire cutters designed specifically for jewelry work.
TIP: Buy pliers and wire cutters with rubber handles for comfort.
Step 3: Include a ruler Include a ruler to measure wire. Your ruler should be metal with markings in both American and metric units.
Step 4: Look for tweezers with a scoop Find a pair of tweezers with a bead scoop on one end. Tweezers can be used to tie knots in silk cords or to scoop and organize beads and gems.
Step 5: Keep an eye out for cylinders Keep an eye out for various sized cylinders, from pencils to copper tubing, to do your wire wraps.
Step 6: Purchase an engraver Purchase an engraver to personalize the jewelry you make with inscriptions.
FACT: According to a 2006 survey, there are more than 52,000 jewelers and precious stone and metal workers in the United States.

You Will Need

Round-nose pliers
Chain-nose pliers
Wire cutters
Metal ruler
Tweezers with a scoop
Cylinders
Engraver
Rubber handles (optional)

How to Make a Grave Rubbing

Howcast — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:16:13 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Obtain permission Obtain permission for making gravestone rubbings from cemetery authorities. Then show respect by learning and following cemetery rules.
Step 2: Choose a headstone Choose a headstone in good condition with clearly cut lines, but not deep lines, for the best results.
TIP: Examine headstones carefully for signs of cracks and flaking which may add to headstone damage during the grave rubbing process and avoid those stones.
Step 3: Clean the stone Clean the stone. Remove dirt, grime, and stains to create the best possible gravestone rubbing, remembering to use only plain soap and water.
Step 4: Cover with paper Cover the headstone with paper, using masking tape to secure the paper to a large stone.
TIP: Use lightweight paper, like newsprint, rice paper, or vellum tissue for the best results.
Step 5: Rub Rub the pencil gently across the paper over the headstone’s engraved area, focusing on lines and features you want to capture, and continuing until you are satisfied with the rubbing.
Step 6: Remove paper Remove the paper from the headstone, and then spray it with a fixative to avoid smudging. Now your image is ready for display or to serve as a documentation of history.
FACT: Boston’s Copp’s Hill Burying Grounds is one of North America’s oldest cemeteries and the final resting place of the nation’s early artisans and merchants, as well as, buried in unmarked graves, African Americans who lived at the base of the hill.

You Will Need

Permission
Water
Soap
Paper
Masking tape
Pencil
Spray fixative
Newsprint
rice paper
or vellum tissue (optional)

How to Reuse Soda Tabs

Howcast — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 11:03:03 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Hang a picture Use soda tabs as hangers for your family portrait or other pictures. Screw a soda tab to the back of the frame and your picture is ready to hang.
TIP: Make sure you wash the soda tabs before using.
Step 2: Use as a button Replace the lost button on a pair of jeans by sewing on a soda tab. It will make a unique statement.
Step 3: Make a belt Accessorize your favorite pair of jeans with a belt made of soda tabs. You can make one by connecting about 115 soda tabs with ribbon that is about ⅓-inch wide.
Step 4: Make a suit of armor Make your own suit of armor. Cut the tips of the tabs with tin snips and weave the tabs together.
Step 5: Create home decor Create an animal out of soda tabs and wire for a wall hanging or coffee table decoration.
Step 6: Crochet Crochet soda tabs together with your favorite yarn to make a one-of-a-kind necklace.
Step 7: Challenge your creativity Challenge yourself to come up with more creative ways to recycle soda tabs! Get your family involved by holding a contest to see who comes up with the most ideas.
FACT: Students in Utica, New York collected more than 88,000 soda can tabs in one year for recycling to benefit a children’s charity.

You Will Need

Soda can tabs
A picture
A screw and screwdriver
A needle and thread
u2153″ wide ribbon
Tin snips
Wire
Yarn
Crochet hook
Creativity

How to Make Incense

Howcast — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 08:46:53 +0000

Instructions

: Always make incense in a well-ventilated area with no open flames.
Step 1: Combine oils Create your fragrance by combining your essential oils or perfume oils.
TIP: Be creative; try to develop something entirely unique.
Step 2: Combine fragrance and alcohol Combine 1/3 part of your fragrance mixture with 2/3 parts of denatured alcohol.
Step 3: Pour into pan Pour the diluted fragrance into the pan.
Step 4: Soak sticks Soak the blank sticks in the mixture for 24 hours.
Step 5: Remove; dry Remove the sticks from the liquid and place them on the window screen to dry for another 24 hours.
TIP: Dry the sticks completely.
Step 6: Light Light the incense once the sticks have dried.
FACT: The incense clock, which uses burning incense to measure time, was invented in China between the years of 960 to 1279 C.E.

You Will Need

Perfume oils or essential oils
Denatured alcohol
Small tray or pan
Blank incense sticks
Window screen

How to Make a Tissue Box Cover

Howcast — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 09:01:19 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Measure sides Use a ruler to measure the five sides of your tissue box, excluding the bottom, and add 1/4 inch to each side for the seam.
Step 2: Cut out sides from fabric Cut out each side of your fabric with a pair of scissors and then measure and cut out a slot for the tissues in the top piece.
TIP: The size slot you’ll need for the tissues will depend on the size of original tissue box — measure and cut appropriately.
Step 3: Sew opening Cut a small slit in each corner of the opening, fold back the edges, and then sew them back for a nice clean look.
TIP: Use pins to hold back the flaps as you sew to make things easier.
Step 4: Sew the sleeve Sew all four sides of the perimeter together inside out to create the sleeve that fits around the box.
Step 5: Notch top piece Cut out tiny 1/4-inch squares in each corner of the top piece to create flaps that wrap around each of the four sides of the sleeve.
Step 6: Attach top piece Attach the top piece to the sleeve by pinning it upside down and then sewing the flaps to each side.
TIP: You may want to use an electric iron to smooth the edges and make them as crisp as possible.
Step 7: Turn right side out Turn the cover right side out and then slip over the tissue box. Pull a tissue through the top slot. Display in plain view for all to see without embarrassment.
FACT: If every household in America used just one box of 100 percent recycled facial tissues instead of virgin fiber tissues, 163,000 trees would be saved.

You Will Need

Tissue box
Ruler
Fabric
Scissors
Pins
Thread
Sewing machine
Electric iron (optional)

How to Make LED-Lit Action Figures

Howcast — Fri, 21 May 2010 14:31:40 +0000

Instructions

: Children under 10 should not use a utility knife.
Step 1: Gather action figures Gather several plastic action figures. Get a variety and experiment to see which ones work best.
TIP: Yard sales and flea markets are great places to find inexpensive action figures.
Step 2: Behead them! Pop the heads off of your little plastic people, or cut them off, and use the utility knife to make the opening in their head the appropriate size for an LED.
Step 3: Carve the face Use a bench vise to hold the head securely. Then, carve or drill holes into the figure’s face to create an expression.
Step 4: Put the LED in Put the LED in the head. Bend and position the leads coming from the head so that they’ll make contact with the battery in the body cavity.
TIP: The negative lead is the one nearest the flat spot at the base of the bulb.
Step 5: Prepare the body Prepare the body by trimming any neck pegs that might interfere with the LED and creating a hole for the leads to enter the body. Carve out a niche for the battery in a place where the leads can make contact with it.
Step 6: Put it together Put the pieces together, using glue to hold them in place. Position the battery either inside or outside the body so that the negative side connects to the negative lead, and the positive side connects to the positive lead.
Step 7: Make more Make more light-up action figures. Position several together for a quirky, decorative scene.
FACT: In 2009, the 78-year-old co-founder of KB Toys auctioned a portion of his private antique toy collection worth more than $4 million.

You Will Need

Plastic action figures
Utility knife
Bench vise
CR1025 lithium batteries
Glue
Drill (optional)