Time waits for no man … or woman. The grandfather clock in my parent's house stood in the corner of the dining room from the time of their marriage. This antique clock was a bargain at the purchase price of £5 at an auction when they first set up home and nearly 60 years later the grandfather clock is still a much loved part of the family. When they bought it, it was a pile of pieces on the floor of the auction house but my father did some clock repair on it and managed to get it working. I remember using the gap behind the grandfather clock for hide and seek (until I grew too big) and hiding my grandmother's handbag in the case so she couldn't go home one day! The gentle tick tock has been a comfort on many occasions, particularly on sleepless nights, the unmistakable grandfather clock chime letting me know the time without having to disturb anyone else. Children and grandchildren have all peeked inside to watch the pendulum swing or to watch Grandad going through the ceremony of winding the weights up each week at precisely 7.25 am on a Sunday. This was the only time in the morning he could fit the key into both the keyholes on the face because only then were the grandfather clock hands in the right place! The grandfather clock has had its moments though! The mechanism has become temperamental with age and has undergone clock repair a number of times. When my parents moved 20 years' ago, the grandfather clock went with them and they decided to have it cleaned and refurbished. The specialist who came to see it was intrigued because the case was a 'modern' one (remember this is an antique clock and probably means early 20th century). He was interested enough to take a photograph of the movement and send it to the British Museum. The response from the British Museum was a real surprise. Our much loved grandfather clock really wasn't a grandfather clock at all! It had started off life as a wall clock, but it must have been a very large one. The maker of our grandfather clock was a Dutchman called A. Fromanteel although we are not sure which one, the father Ahasuerus who came to England in 1620 and developed the pendulum clock in 1658 or Abraham, it certainly has a much finer pedigree than we do! From very scanty research on the internet we have found out that the Fromanteel family were innovators and were the first to produce a clock that was accurate and not affected by the weather. Each clock that they built had some new feature on it. Our own grandfather clock has a pillar movement although I know that the date feature no longer works. Has this information made a difference to us? No. To us it is still the grandfather clock of our childhood, a comforting reminder of happy memories and life and time moving on.
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A new coat of paint can refresh and revitalize any room in your house. Paint is also a very cost effective way to change the look of a room. The best part about interior painting is that almost anyone can do it—all you need is the right material and a little bit of knowledge. Painting Supplies Your supply needs will vary depending upon the room that you are painting and the type of paint that you are using, but here is a basic list to get you started: • Paint. After you choose a color, you will also need to choose a finish. The finish determines how shiny the paint will be. Choices include flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Flat finish is hard to wipe clean and should only be used in low traffic areas that will not attract dirt. Satin, eggshell, and semi-gloss finishes are easy to wipe clean and can be used almost anywhere. Gloss finish is very shiny and is best reserved for small areas such as trim or molding. • Paint Applicators. Paint rollers and brushes are necessities. A good paint roller can paint an entire room. Choose one that has a fair amount of nap to it-- the thicker the better. When it comes to brushes, everyone has their own individual preference. A small angle brush works well for trim and corners. A three inch flat brush or a paint pad will work well for the places that a paint roller can not reach. • Miscellaneous Supplies. In addition to paint and paint applicators, you may also need drop cloths, cleaning rags, paint trays, spackling, sandpaper, and a putty knife (if your walls are damaged and need repair), and a ladder or stepladder. The ladder will need to be sturdy and stable to support your movements. Try choosing a ladder with a wide base or a flared bottom like on a Little Giant Ladder. Painting Tips When painting, the most important thing you can do is take your time. If you move too fast, things could get sloppy. Also important, is the prep work. Your painting project will go much smoother if you are properly prepared prior to painting. Here are some tips that can help: • Make sure that you have everything you need by organizing all of your supplies before you start painting. • Protect your furniture from paint splatters by moving it or covering it up. • Use low-tack masking tape to tape off baseboards and trim. Remove the tape before the paint dries. • Paint the walls before painting trim or woodwork. • Do not apply a second coat of paint until the first coat has dried.
If you are mostly shopping for see thru gas fireplaces or three sided gas fireplaces, undoubtedly these types of items may not turn out to be commonly available on a large number of portals, be sure that you use your browser favorites function as you carry out this variety of fireplace targeted search, your precious information ought to be treated with the utmost of care. For anyone purchasing products like wholesale fireplace mantels or wood burning fireplace inserts, it would be smart to speak to a selection of heating experts prior to your search, you may very well be hunting for a special product such as a gas fireplace key or a bellow yet because of a lack of details take the wrong merchandise. 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Keep in mind that fireplace specialists and other people who often deal with or have some connections with fireplaces can easily be located via the local telephone listings, there will be numerous of individuals who are connected with the topic of fireplaces and these people may save you a massive amount of your valuable time by aiding you with your fireplace connected issues. It has to be said that the town book shop can often be an obvious place to get guidance about fireplace products, advances such as the internet can make us neglect the many different interior design resources that are currently freely available to us, you should certainly make use of these kinds of havens of great fireplace data, suitable fireplace product info may very often be hard to find. 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One thig worth thinking about whilst you search this area of heat installation that you will certainly be overloaded with a considerable number of truly varied search results, such results as outdoor masonry fireplaces or regency fireplaces might still be particularly relevant to your requirements. Globes are the spherical version of a map. Their spherical shape allows them to represent the earth perfectly. Globes were always in used as navigational tools as well as to understand various earth’s processes and phenomena. The earliest globes were traced to the fifteenth century. Like maps, globes also show accurate directions, dimensions, distances, shapes and sizes of all the countries in the world. Most globe-makers use high quality geographic research and cartographic abilities to design globes. They are also updated regularly to take note of any changes in the world’s political, social, or environmental conditions. Digital globes are those which use advancements in digital technology for representing the earth better. They have digital images over and inside the screen that keep changing as per the user’s requirements. The images, derived from satellite images, are made to appear on the screen, which is similar to a picture screen of a television. There are also digital raised-relief globes with clearly defined mountain ranges and water bodies. There are also celestial digital globes available. However, digital globes are not generally meant for commercial applications. Virtual globes are also digital globes that can be viewed on the computer or any other interface. These may be simple globes used for classroom teaching, or they can be highly technologically advanced. Some virtual globes use state-of-the-art technology like satellite imaging and multiple GIS databases for real-time coverage. Virtual globes can be online or offline. These days, the application of virtual globes has become so common that they are also being fitted in cars in order to make navigation easier for the driver. They can provide detailed information, right down to a street’s name. Another kind of digital globe is the hyperglobe that uses virtual reality to present spatial effects. These are used for visually depicting certain geographic processes and phenomenon such as the earth’s inclination, space travel, and satellite technology, through three-dimensional geoid visualization, animation, and real-time presentations. These also have interactive cartometric tools for making the data globally available. There is actually heaps of various colorations, distinctive patterns even extraordinary types of wallpaper. How do you realize which shade, or which pattern will in shape it’s surroundings the exceptional? Examine on, and you will have an awesome concept! Shade / pattern - This for the most part is a private chose; however there are easy matters you can do to pick a coloration/sample on the way to without a doubt work. If you want the hot red wallpaper and the rest of your house is executed in marble i would endorse shying far from your non-public desire and going with some thing that is going to closing and upload fee to your own home now not get rid of from it. There are numerous courses that allow you to choose colors that match it’s surroundings and that healthy in. A simple rule is choose like coloration’s and tones. As an instance in case your thinking inexperienced, and the alternative wall is maroon. Select a green that is the equal tone as the maroon. Don’t pick like sleek shiny inexperienced, when the maroon is a stupid mild coloration. Types - numerous specific varieties of wallpaper exist, and quite a few this choice goes to rely on it’s utility, and your finances. As an example Vinyl wallpaper is very long lasting and is best for rooms like kitchens and toilets as it can be scrubbed, and will not preserve stains. Vinyl-lined Wallpaper is similar to Vinyl Wallpaper but it is not pretty as durable and will maintain stains. Are you able to see how the distinction between those styles goes to make a large difference in placement. You might think that having a sincerely pricey custom wallpaper on your kitchen is acceptable however while your infant flings some spaghetti sauce on it, and it stains, you're going to be wishing you had selected something more practical. This is only intended to be a rough instructional guide on wallpapers. There are several components of wallpapers that I didn’t cover. I propose speaking to a professional at a wallpaper shop, whilst it comes time to re-enhance your home. Make sure to invite lots of questions as wallpapers will last time if chosen wisely. Chandeliers conjure visions of royalty, grandeur and opulence. Though sleeker and slimmer versions have evolved, there’s still an aura of antiquity that surrounds a chandelier. So when one is striving for an antique look for his home, going in for turn-of-the-century furniture, a decadent looking fireplace and a chandelier are the first things on his mind. Chandeliers conjure visions of royalty, grandeur and opulence. Though sleeker and slimmer versions have evolved, there’s still an aura of antiquity that surrounds a chandelier. So when one is striving for an antique look for his home, going in for turn-of-the-century furniture, a decadent looking fireplace and a chandelier are the first things on his mind. If you are one of the lucky ones who possess an old chandelier handed down to you through generations, then you wouldn’t need to lift a finger. For the not so lucky ones, you would need to hunt for a piece that would look convincingly old. Shops selling antique pieces would definitely be your first stop. For nothing can really replicate that old look better than a piece actually made years back. But if they cannot satisfy you, you have no other choice but to get a ready-made variety and try to give it an old look. First, steer clear of the slim-trim polished-steel chandeliers. These are especially designed for modern homes with clean-cut furniture and can never be passed off as old. Antique chandeliers are ornate pieces with very intricate carvings. Candle chandeliers have an inherent archaic feel to them. An antique chandelier can be made of crystal, wrought iron, or brass or antlers, and they are never shiny in appearance. That is why you just cannot buy a wrought-iron or a brass type of chandelier and install it, hoping that it would impart an antique look to the environs. The chandelier must be worked upon so that there is an authentic antique feel to it. To replicate an old look, you need to apply an antiquing glaze on it. While the glaze is still wet, you need to rub off the shine from it with a soft cloth. The latter is done to achieve a worn-out look. After working on the chandelier, it is also important o have the other furniture catered to the antique look. For a single antique or antique-looking chandelier cannot bring about an antique feel in the ambience. A chandelier will look antique only when there’s an antique atmosphere around it. With the evolution of lighting technology, outdoor lighting has seen its share of breakthroughs. Outdoor lighting is as important as indoor lighting. Lighting up the spaces immediately outside or surrounding our living areas is extremely vital for visual orientation, safety while navigating, and security, as well as for balancing out the indoor ambience. The outdoor milieu prepares and provides a preview to the life and living style within the four walls. Outdoor lighting is equally important in reflecting the external persona of a structure and its surrounding area. It sets a particular mood and provides a visual treat. Outdoor lighting presents enormous scope for experimentation. It’s a virgin canvas waiting to be colored by unique lighting approaches, ideas and techniques. Outdoor lighting spaces comprise the areas surrounding the structure, pathways, swimming pools or fountains, landscape surrounding the structure, patios, balconies, decks, porches, etc. There are a variety of options on the market, including low-voltage lighting, flood lights, tree lights, post lights, lanterns, string bulbs for festive occasions, recessed lighting, scoops, pagoda-style louvered faced lights which granite finish that easily blend without door environs, and even solar lights devoid of wires and operating on NiCad batteries. Various techniques of lighting can be used in outdoor lighting. Spot lighting, which focuses light on architectural features, may be positioned to minimize glare and focus fully on the focal point. Silhouetting is placing the light sources behind the object to bring out the shape of the object rather than the exact color and texture. Key light or shadowing requires placing the light source directly in front of the object of interest to create a light and shadow effect. Moonlighting requires a fixture to be placed on the trees and aiming it down to provide a natural peaceful moonlit effect. Deck lighting, grazing (light focuses on the object at a sharp angle) and washing the surface (light focuses on objects at a wider or blunt angle), step lighting, walkway lighting, pond and fountain lighting, and sign lighting are some of the various techniques used for outdoor lighting. In outdoor lighting, a basic thing that has to be kept in mind is that the lighting fixtures are exposed to all the elements outside. In case of lighting water features, the light source is sometimes from the inside to create a magical glittering and rippling effect. Therefore, appropriate lighting fixtures and lights should be chosen. Self-lighting kits of low voltage are also available for those who wish to try out their creative lighting talents.. A Look At A Few Popular Decorating Styles Popular decorating styles are always changing. Is your home up to date on the latest fashion trends and decorating tips? Popular decorating styles are fun, interesting and they just add something to talk about to the rest of the home. If you are considering a redo of your living room, your kitchen, your bedroom or virtually any other room in or outside of your home, consider some of today’s more popular choices. You are sure to find one, or two, that you really love to use. Traditional: We have to start with the traditional look because it just does not go out of style. Here, the look is furniture that comes from the Kings and Queens of yesteryear, early American trends and a wide range of other formal styled items. You are looking for traditional to come through in the upholstery, in the window treatments and even in the accents that are placed around the room. Traditional is a style that is highly expensive to pull off with exceptional quality furnishings. Shabby Elegance: Who’s to say that this is not one of the best methods of decorating. The look is that of chic, something that features light toned wall and furniture colorings, old china pattern looks, warm yet comfortable pieces that create a sense of relaxation when you look at them. Contemporary: Modern contemporary looks have always been in style in the last decade. These looks are influenced by pieces that are bold and bright, different and unique and are functional yet are also more of a piece of art as well. You will find straight, clean lines in the furnishings and walls here. Art Deco: This popular decorating style is one that seems quite a bit like the modern contemporary yet it has a more flowing look to it. The lines are not as straight, but rather are curved. Rustic: The look for the log cabin is not gone. In a rustic Southwestern feel, you will have woods used of various types. It will have a laid back feel with warm throws and soft, comfortable furniture. The color scheme here is that of warm, rich colors that complement the woods. French Country: This is a very popular choice in decorating styles. Here, you will have many bright colors and will have that feel of whimsical dreaming. Wood finishes are done with fruitwoods and cherry. Art work with color is on the walls. One of these popular decorating styles will work perfectly in your home. There are plenty to select from to help you to transform the look for your home into something that is amazing. A doorknob hanger is an excellent way to convey a temporary message. It is ideal for patient rooms, guest rooms, offices, baby’s rooms and conference rooms. Some of these hangers are specially designed to convey a message of “privacy wanted”. Children love to use knob hangers to send messages to their parents, siblings and friends. For a library or a reading room, door knob hangers are a funny and creative way to promote a library referendum and encourage reading. They are also used by companies to announce their deals and new products. Additionally, these hangers work as a marketing pieces in canvassing programs. Making doorknob hangers is a fast and simple craft for kids. Doorknob hangers are pieces of materials with different messages printed on them, making them an economical and convenient way to advertise. They are brightly colored and approximately 12 by 24 cm in size. For advertising requirements, double-sided full color hangers are available. Door knob hangers are made of heavy plastic and are designed to fit on any door knob. Today’s door knob hangers are professional and classy-looking. They are available in as homemade products and can be purchased in shops or at craft shows. Door knob hangers made of fiber board make great reminders. Hangers with removable magnets are also commonly used. These are decorated with stickers, markers and crayons. With the growing number of manufacturers, an extensive collection of doorknob hangers in different color and design are available with prices varying on the basis of design and quality of the material. There is definitely something elegant and cozy that fire places add to almost any home. They are a great addition, but they are also a lot of work. Many don’t take that into consideration when they have them installed or when they buy a house that is full of them. If you don’t end up using them, you have to have them covered up. If you do use them, they require maintenance. If you don’t do anything at all with them, they can cost you money on your energy bills due to a loss of heat and drafting issues.
When you actively use your fire places, you have to remember to keep them clean. They can be a fire hazard as well, and that means you have to have someone come in to check and clean your chimney at least once a year if not more. You have to keep the ashes cleaned out, and it will add a certain aroma to your home that you may or may not like. If you don’t mind all of those things, you certainly should have fire places if you want to. However, don’t use them but ignore the upkeep or you could be putting your home in danger of burning down. If you ignore your fire places and are not using them, you may find that you have a draft in the wintertime and that your bills are higher than they need to be. You should always have someone come in to close up your fire places if you don’t intend to use them any time soon. If you think you may use them again in the future, make sure you find someone who can close them up so you may open them again when you wish to start using them again. Some ways of closing up fire places are permanent, so make sure you are specific about what you want done. Overall, fire places can be great additions to the home, though most only use them once in a while. Safety is an important issue, as many lose their homes to fires because they did not care for them the right way. Always have the number of a good chimney sweep company on hand, and know what to look for if there may be problems. If smoke starts backing up into your home when you use them, you may have blockage that needs to be addressed immediately. |
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