Brass Shopping

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Antiques, Decor, Tips

When shopping for brass, take along a magnet. If the magnet sticks to the item such as a lamp base, it is not real brass. If the magnet falls off, you’ve got the real deal.

Brass Restoration

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Antiques, Decor, Tips

Here’s how to restore the missing brass hardware on an antique door. The ghost image of original brass hardware is often visible. It can be replicated by tracing the impression. A cardboard template is made to scribe the design. The brass is cut on a bandsaw and...

Color Cues

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Decor, Miscellaneous Decor, Tips

Color does more than beautify. It affects our moods and energy levels, influences our sense of temperature, and alters our perception of space. The most basic guide to the impact of color is warm vs. cool: Warm Colors – Shades of red, yellow, and orange are cheery,...

Fountain Features

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Decor, Miscellaneous Decor, Tips

A fountain, unlike other statues or pieces of garden furniture, works with two senses at once: sight and sound. The pleasing sound of flowing water goes a long way to providing a calming atmosphere, indoors or out. In urban environments, flowing fountain water screens...

Lead Sources

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Decor, Furniture, Tips

While paint, dust, and soil are the most common lead hazards, other lead sources also exist. – Drinking water, your home might have plumbing with lead or lead solder. – The job, if you work with lead, you could bring it home on your hands or clothes....

Colored Shades

by ryw | Jan 1, 2017 | Decor, Miscellaneous Decor, Tips

As in all aspects of decor, the color of a lamp and its shade will affect the atmosphere and style of a room. Use strongly contrasting colors to make a localized decorative statement.