How to Place a Dining Table

The table is the focal point of the dining room. Buffets and china cupboards prove fashionable accessories, but the table is what fulfills the room's name. According to "101 Feng Shui Tips for the Home" by Richard Webster, "The main focus of the room is the table. Everything else is of lesser importance. The dining table should be placed near the middle of the room, or at least in a position where your guest can get up from the table without feeling restricted by a wall." Placement of the table is the first step in a functional dining room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Move furniture to one side or out of the room.

2

Measure the width and length of the dining room and determine the room's center.

3

Push the table to the center of the room, so that the table's central point is over the room's center point, and push the chairs into place around the table. According to Tips for Effective Dining Room Design, "Arrange furniture in circular, square or octagonal groupings in the middle of the floor. Position dining chairs so they back in the direction of a wall rather than a doorway. Neither the dining table nor any of the chairs should be positioned under a false beam."

4

Arrange buffets and china cupboards around the room in complementary positions to the table. Take care that no chairs back into glass-fronted cabinets. Tall cupboards should be placed against walls and not in front of windows.

How to Pack Dining Room Chairs in a Moving Truck

Packing dining room chairs in a moving truck can be difficult because of the unusual shape of the chairs. They never fit conveniently anywhere and take up more space than other objects of similar weight. Dining room chairs are also rather fragile so more attention must be paid to their protection. If you follow a few simple tips, you can pack dining room chairs in a moving truck safely and efficiently.

Instructions

1

Wrap up the chairs in packing blankets. The chair's legs and arms can get nicked and cushions torn if you don't protect them with packing blankets.

2

Examine the moving truck where you are loading the dining room chairs. Since they tend to be lighter than other furniture they should go on top of heavier things. Find a space that will accommodate the chairs.

3

Try to stand the chairs on their feet. This is the safest way to transport them since their weight won't be on their backs or sides. You probably won't be able to stand them all on their feet but attempt to stand as many as you can this way.

4

Turn some of the chairs over and stack them face down on the chairs standing on their feet. The cushions should be pressed against each other. If the dining room chairs have arms you may need to shift them a few inches to the side so they can meet. Be sure to place padding on the arms if you do this.

5

Secure the dining room chairs so they don't move. It is common for chairs to be damaged by shifting when they aren't packed tight. Fill in the space around them with small, soft objects. Tie the chairs down if you have no other way to keep them from moving.

How to Review and Compare Console Humidifiers

If you have found that the air in your home is a bit dry, especially in the winter when humidity levels drop, you might benefit from a console humidifier. These types of humidifiers are not quite small enough to sit on top of a table like tabletop humidifiers, but they can be easily moved from one room to another. Their purpose is to add moisture and humidity to the air, making your home more comfortable. They are ideal for use in just one room or for smaller spaces, such as an apartment. Before you choose a console humidifier, review and compare your options. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Create a review system as you compare the various console humidifier models available. Only you can decide which factors are most important to you and how to rate them. As you compare your options, rate what you find to help you review them. This will help you choose.

2

Pay attention to price. Console humidifiers may be small, but they can still get pricey. Create a budget and try to stick to it.

3

Find out the maintenance requirements for the console humidifiers you're reviewing and comparing. Some of them need to be cleaned out more often than others, and the process for cleaning can vary from model to model.

4

Look for console humidifiers that have wheels. They are usually too large to comfortably pick up if you want to move your humidifier to a different room.

5

Check out the tank size. There are advantages and disadvantages to a larger tank. The larger the tank, the less often you'll have to fill it. However, larger tanks can also be more difficult to clean.

6

Find out what extra features the console humidifiers you're reviewing and comparing come with. More features can help you rate them higher. Some common features include less noise, a timer, a humidistat and electronic controls.

Proper Height of a Dining Room Table

While standard dimensions are recognized in the furniture industry, the proper height for a dining room table is often a matter of taste and preference. Some homeowners may prefer a table of traditional height and others might seek the informality of a counter height table. Small dining rooms may be best served by a cozy pub table. Whatever the choice, the proper table and chair height is essential to diner comfort. Does this Spark an idea?

Standard Tables

The standard height measurement for a traditional dining room table is 30 inches. To ensure that those seated at the table are comfortable, the seat of the dining room chair should be 10 to 12 inches below the table height. This means that a standard dining room chair will measure between 18 to 20 inches high from the floor to the seat.

Counter Height and Pub Tables

Of course, there are other choices when it comes to furnishing a dining area. Homeowners who prefer a less formal approach might select a counter height dining room table. It is even possible to purchase dining room sets that combine casual counter height with classic style. A counter height table measures 36 inches, compared to the standard 30-inch table. Consumers who are tall of stature may prefer a table with these larger dimensions. A counter height chair will usually measure 24 to 26 inches high.

If the dining area is limited, a pub table might be a good choice. A pub table is higher than standard counter height tables and offers a more casual dining choice than traditional tables. Pub tables stand 40 inches high and usually boast a slightly smaller table surface. A chair or stool height of around 30 inches is customary for the pub table.

How to Draw a Pool Table

If you own a pool hall or sell pool tables and related equipment, being able to create good quality graphics, icons and logos for advertisements, fliers, brochures or other documents is a handy ability to have, since it will save you the cost of hiring a professional graphics artist. You might think you need great artistic skill to do this, but if you have access to Photoshop, you can quickly draw your own pool table.

Instructions

1

Open Photoshop. Select "File" and click "New." In the dialog that now opens make the size of the document whatever you want for your project. Since you will probably be printing it, make the resolution 300 pixels per inch. Set the background to "Transparent" and click "OK."

2

Click on the "New Layer" icon at the bottom of the "Layers" panel. Change the "Foreground" color in the toolbar to a dark green.

3

Select the "Rectangular Marquee" tool and use it to draw out a rectangle for the pool table's green surface. Use the Paint Bucket to fill the selection with green. Now select "Edit," then "Transform" and click "Skew." Use the handles at the corners of the selection to move and distort the surface so that it looks like you are looking at it from an angle, rather than from directly above.

4

Go to the "Layers" panel, right-click on the layer and select "Duplicate." Now hold down the "ALT" key and use the "Scale" function under "Transform" to increase the size of the surface in the duplicate layer slightly.

5

Go back to the original copy and use the "Magic Wand" selection tool to select the surface. Go back to the duplicate layer and click "Delete." Select "Image," then "Adjustments" and click "Hue/Saturation." Change the "Hue" setting so that the surface becomes brown.

6

Create a new layer between the other two. Use the same technique used in steps 2-3 to create inner railings for the pool table, except that you should fill them with a dark brown.

7

Create a new layer under the railings layer. Select the "Elliptical Marquee" tool and use the same technique used in step 2-3 to create pockets for the pool tables, except that you should change the color to black.

8

Create a new layer at the top of the layers. Use the same technique used in steps 2-3 to create sides and legs on separate layers for the pool table, except you should use the "Paint Bucket" eyedropper tool to select the same brown you have in the duplicate layer. Save your work as a high resolution JPEG.

Basic Drafting Tools

Drafting is a type of precise, specialized drawing used by architects and engineers. The main goal of drafting is to help the viewer understand technical information. Unlike ordinary drawing, drafting requires a number of specialized tools. While much modern drafting is done on the computer, basic mechanical drafting tools are still useful for some projects. Learning to use these tools can help drafting students get a better understanding of the drafting process.

Furniture

A drafting table and stool are important for anyone who'll be spending a lot of time drafting. Drafting tables tend to be taller than ordinary tables, and have an adjustable writing surface that works either horizontally or at an angle. Drafting stools allow a comfortable posture when working at the table, and are also adjustable. Good drafting furniture helps prevent muscle cramps and strains when working for long periods.

Pencils

Drafters tend to prefer mechanical pencils or lead holders to wooden pencils. These specialized pencils provide a consistent-width line, allowing for a clearer, easier to read design. Lead holders and mechanical pencils also make it easy to change pencil type. Simply place a harder or softer lead in the pencil to make a different mark.

T-Square

This T-shaped measuring device allows drafters to draw consistently straight lines, and also works to locate reference points. T-squares may be used to guide other tools, such as a lettering guide or affixed triangle, for making a series of parallel vertical or horizontal lines.

Erasing

Specialized erasers are useful for producing a clean final drawing with no stray marks. Drafters often use kneaded erasers, which remove marks without damaging the paper, or white vinyl erasers, which erase more cleanly than conventional pink erasers. Erasing guides allow drafters to clean a very small section of paper without disturbing neighboring pencil lines. A brush is used to remove all eraser crumbs, since oils from the hand may smear the drawing.

Homemade Game Tables

Homemade game tables offer an array of exciting entertainment because you can customize them to suit your family's needs. The benefit of making your own oversize game console is you can change the top for a different adventure every time.

Preparation

Select pieces of plywood and four planks of lumber for the table construction. Determine the size of the plywood by considering the number of people who play games in your home. If you and another individual play checkers often, construct a small table that fits two people on either side comfortably. If you play games that require four or more players, construct a larger table. Do not consider the physical size of the game to determine the table size because each game can be enlarged to fit the tabletop.

Choose half the amount of plywood for the total amount of games you play in your home. Each side of the wood will have a game board on it. This technique saves space by combining two games on one piece. Study the game board to paint the exact replica on the plywood in a larger version. Extend each side out to the side of the wood to make the board accessible for all players. Repeat this step for one side of each plywood top. When the paint dries, glaze over the entire board with a clear coat. After the glaze dries, flip the board over and paint the other games on the blank side and coat with the glaze when it dries.

Building the Table

Construct a basic table using a blank piece of plywood for the surface and wood planks for the legs. The size of the surface needs to be the same size or larger than the painted pieces of plywood because the large game boards will rest on top of the table during play. You may also want to paint a new game on the surface of the table top.

Additional Considerations

Consider constructing new, larger game pieces for the game tables. You can use the old pieces but they will look extremely small on the oversize board. If the game uses cards, copy the information onto large note cards. Note cards have the same thick consistency of game cards and can be purchased in a variety of sizes to suit the dimensions of the board.

The Plans & Measurements for How to Design a Dining Room Table & Chairs

A dining room table can be any size. It is the measurements, however, that are most important for designing and then making a table that can be used. There are many different aspects to consider when planning a dining room table. You will need to decide the size of each place setting as well as how much room you want in the middle of the table. Also take into consideration how much room you want around the table and the dimensions of the room in which you plan to place it. Once you have sketched out the plan, you will be ready to add properly calculated measurements.

Instructions

1

Draw a scale map of the room that will hold the dining table and chairs. This will help you to determine the space available and subsequently, the measurements of the table. Obviously, the room size is very important. Once you have determined the room size it will help you choose the length and width of the table and the amount of surrounding space. At that point you are ready to insert the table measurements into the room diagram to make sure the chosen dimension for the table fits the room.

2

Draw the room to scale on a piece of 8.5 by 11 paper. As an example, if the room is 20 feet by 15 feet, for our scale drawing one foot is equal to one inch. Reduce the measurements by half to make the room fit the paper. The resulting scaled room is now 10 inches by 7.5 inches. When inserting table dimensions to the scale drawing convert the feet to inches and divide the number by two.

3

Sketch out the shape of the dining room table. Many dining room tables are square or rectangular. It is much easier to calculate the dimensions for a four-sided table than it is for one that is round or has curves.

4

Determine how much room you want to allot for each person who will be sitting at the table. A minimum of 23 inches per person is recommended. This per person space refers to the amount of room needed from the left side of one person to that individual's right side. If you want to allow for some extra room, 30 inches per person works as well. Use the chosen measurement when determining the table dimensions.

5

Figure in the space needed across the table for each setting as well as the space needed in the middle of the table to accommodate dishes and food. This usually requires at least 12 inches of space. The width of the interior part of the table, that holds the dishes and centerpiece, can range from 30 inches to extra-large 44 inches. Therefore, with a place setting on each side the width of a rectangular table can range from 54 inches to 68 inches. For a square table this width would also be the length of the table. A table with only 30 inches for the dishes and centerpiece can be very cramped. This consideration may give way, however, to concern over the size of the room the table will be placed in. When choosing the width of the table, take into account the width of the room the table will go into and how much room you want on the center of the table. Inserting this width into your room drawing can help you determine the appropriate size of the table. Using the scale from step 3, a 68 inch width is also 5.6 feet. Drawing the table to 5.6 feet scales down to a table that is 2.8 inches in width on paper. A 54-inch or 4.5-foot wide table scales down to 2.25 inches on paper.

6

Calculate the length of the table based on the number of place settings on each side as well as a place setting on each end. From step 3, the length of a place setting is 30 inches. The measurement for the place setting at the end adds on 12 inches because the orientation is different from settings on the sides of the table. If you have two place settings on each side and allow 30 inches per setting then the length of the table is 84 inches or 7 feet long. Again, this number will need to be adjusted, depending on the room measurements, particularly if the room is very small. See how the length matches up to your scale room. A 7-foot long table scales down to 3.5 inches on paper. This easily fits the length of our room.

7

Take into account the space needed for people to sit, walk around, and push back from the table. A comfortable space to push a chair back from the table is 36 inches, though when individuals push back the chair and cross their legs, 44 inches is more accommodating. If the table needs to be handicap accessible then 54 inches around the table is necessary. These measurements also need to take into account the space needed to walk around the table when people are seated at it.

8

Choose a height for the dining room table. A standard table is 30 inches high. Generally, 29 inches are provided by the table legs while the thickness of the table provides the additional inch. If you use a thicker table top then simply shorten the legs to compensate.

9

Plan the height of the dining room chairs to match the height of the table. A standard table is 30 inches off the ground, thus it will require chairs with seats 16 to 17 inches from the floor. If the table height is greater than 30 inches you will need to increase the seat height to match the table dimensions. Choose dimensions that you find comfortable for the chair back and seat. Standard seat measurements are 15.5 to 18 inches for seat width, 16 to 18 inches for depth and 18 to 20 inches from the chair seat to the top of the backrest. Typically, chairs found at the ends of the table have arm rests, while the other chairs do not.

Ideas for Painting a Dining & Living Room Combo

The right paint colors can change the entire feel of your living and dining room. Before selecting colors decide on your decor style. The wrong colors can offset or contrast against your decor. For instance, Southwestern decor does not match well with pastel walls and white crown molding. Yet, if your decor is French country then elegant pastel walls blend perfectly. Does this Spark an idea?

Southwestern

Green pottery goes well with Southwestern decor.

Southwestern decor includes rich bold colors from pottery, furniture or Native American art. Choose paint colors that blend well with specific decor pieces. For instance, if dark green is in your furniture or art then use this color as one of your paint choices. You can paint one solid wall dark green. Other deep colors such as rusty red or burgundy also work well depending on your decor selections. However, if you want to paint more than one wall, use lighter colors such as beige. Beige generally matches Southwest decor. You can paint all the walls beige and leave the ceiling white.

French Country

French country decor works well with a long list of colors because this style is simple and plain yet stylish. Many decor pieces such as picture frames are white or silver, and white blends well with many colors. Furniture pieces are white or painted in pastel colors. French decor is also elegant depending on the particular pieces in the room. You can dress up this look or create more of a French cottage feel. Paint the walls in your dining and living room light pastel colors such as yellow, purple or even baby blue. Choose colors based on the decor in the room. Crown molding works well with this style. Install crown molding at the top border of your living and dining and room.

Light Green Walls

Light green walls work well with several types of decor. This color is very neutral. It will complement dark burgundy or brown leather sofas. Hang pictures with dark burgundy or black frames on the walls. Paint all the walls in your living and dining room light green and leave the ceiling white. Bright green does not work well for a living and dining room so make sure you select light green or pea green.

How to Build a Kid's Small Eating Table With Already Pre-Cut Wood

Building a small table for your child provides a treasured memory for her future. Made of a pre-cut piece of laminated pine, four mounting brackets and four screw-on legs, her childhood table can grow with her. With the addition of longer legs, the small eating table becomes an end or a console table for her first apartment. When she has children of her own, she can replace the legs and return the table to its original use -- for your grandchildren. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Turn the laminated pine, or table top, so the nicest side faces down. Measure and mark 1 inch in from each corner.

2

Align the outermost screw hole of each leg bracket with the pencil marks, so that the legs are at least an inch inside the edges of the table. Screw the brackets to the table using wood screws and a drill with a screwdriver bit. Screw the legs into the brackets.

3

Turn the table right side up and sand with fine-grit sandpaper until all surfaces are smooth. Wipe with a tack cloth to remove all dust.

4

Brush a coat of satin-finish polyurethane over the wood. Allow to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. Sand lightly, wipe with a tack cloth and add another coat of polyurethane. Allow to dry completely before using.

How to Make a Homemade Light Table Using a Portable Tracing Table

A portable tracing table consists of a usually plastic box with a light inside and at least one clear or opaque surface. The user places an image on the opaque surface and covers that with a piece of blank paper. With a flip of the switch, the light in the box shines through the paper, providing a clear view of the image for tracing. If you'd like to make that portable tracing table into a permanent fixture, use a lift-top desk or a drafting table as a base. Either gives you a solid foundation for the finished table and requires less cutting and measuring than making a table from scratch. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure the top of the portable light table for the width and length of the piece. A portable light table looks like a large plastic or metal box with an electric cord at one end. Write down the measurements and subtract a half-inch from all sides.

2

Raise the top on the lift-top desk or table. Find the hinges inside the table and remove the hinges with a screwdriver. Draw a large square or rectangle in the center of the desktop, making the square the same size as the dimensions from the last step.

3

Set the desktop on a pair of sawhorses. Place a circular saw on the top of the desk, placing the blade flat against one of your lines from Step 2. Turn on the saw and carefully cut the lines to remove the center of the desktop.

4

Lightly sand the edges of the cutout area on the desk. Fold the sandpaper over the edges and rub back and forth, removing any rough spots. Screw the hinges onto the desk and desktop, connecting the two pieces together.

5

Drill a hole through one side of the desk, making the hole large enough for the power cord on the portable light table. Set the light table on top of the desk and push down. The light table should slip into the desk while the edges hold it upright. Push the power cord through the drilled hole on the side.

How to Make a Dining Room Table

A dining room table can become one of the biggest single expenses when furnishing your home. It doesn't have to be that way. You can have a gorgeous table on a budget. You can make one using inexpensive materials. There are certain home improvement or design stores that sell table kits. You can use these to build your dining table. You may also build a dining table from scratch using materials that are readily available from lumber yards and home improvement centers. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Go to your home improvement or lumber store. Buy a piece of plywood that is 3/4 inches thick. It should also be 8 feet long and 48 inches wide. You can also use MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) or a hollow unfinished door that is about 8 feet tall.

2

Cut off 6 inches from the length of the plywood using a table saw. Create curved corners by using the router. Sand with medium grit sandpaper.

3

Build table legs. Buy a couple of pieces of wood lumber. Cut four pieces to size. Each piece should be approximately 27 1/2 inches (70 cm.) in height. You may also buy ready-made table legs that you can purchase from a design store or online. See the links in our Resources section for more information.

4

Place the plywood on a flat surface or on the floor with the underside up. Screw on each leg. Connect the four legs by using a drill and screwdriver. Attach the legs using a couple of 2-inch screws on each. Make sure to leave 5 to 6 inches overhang on each corner.

5

Flip the table over. Make sure that it is level. Make adjustments if it is at all wobbly.

6

Sand the top and sides of the table top until all is smooth and splinter-free. Wipe with tack cloth to remove the dust.

7

Paint or stain the completed table. Let it dry before using. You can add a tablecloth to hide imperfections.

How to Use a Picnic Table as a Dining Room Table

A dining room is a space where family and friends gather to enjoy meals together. As such, the central element in this room is the table. Instead of choosing a predictable table, furnish the space with an unexpected one -- a picnic table. A picnic table sets a welcoming tone and is ideal for use in a rustic-themed dining room. While picnic tables are casual, you can dress them up to give them a bit more of a formal look that is appropriate for a dining room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Purchase a picnic table. There are several styles and types of picnic tables available. Traditionally, they are rectangular tables that are made out of wood and come with attached or detached benches that flank either side. In addition to the traditional style, they can also be circular or round in shape. They can be made of a variety of types of wood, recycled plastic or aluminum. Instead of benches, they can be surrounded with individual chairs. The possible styles and materials are seemingly limitless. When purchasing one for your dining room, consider the look you are trying to achieve, as well as the size of the room. Shop around. Take pictures of different tables you are interested in and compare them before making your final selection.

2

Set up the picnic table. After purchasing your table, bring it home and set it up in your dining room. Try placing it in different positions until you find one that you are satisfied with.

3

Purchase accessories. Table runners, centerpieces, chair covers and other decorative elements help to personalize the picnic table and give it a more formal look for a dining room.

4

Dress the table. After you've purchased your accessories, use them to decorate the table and seats. One idea is to place a sterling silver serving platter topped with pillar candles on top of a cotton or linen runner. If you're using a picnic table that is flanked by wooden benches, place overstuffed cushions on them to not only give them a different look, but to provide diners with comfort.

How to Turn a Coffee Table Into a Bench

What do you do with a coffee table that has served its purpose to the point where it simply no longer looks good? Cup rings, scrapes and other damage can make coffee tables unattractive as they age. Throwing it out to buy another is certainly an option, but why throw the piece out when it can be reincarnated into something beautiful and useful again? It does not take much to turn that unattractive coffee table into an attractive bench and conversation piece. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Inspect your coffee table for damage and repair as necessary. Especially check for wobbly legs since you are turning this into something for people to sit on.

2

Prepare the foam. The best way to do this is to turn the table over on top of the foam so that you can mark the straight edges with a marker, then cut along those straight edges with an electric knife.

3

Attach the foam to the top of the table by spraying with adhesive. Take care that you center your foam to make your bench look balanced.

4

Put the batting over the foam. You should have at least 3 inches extra all the way around for ease of stapling. Starting with the center of a lengthwise side, staple the batting to the underside of the table. Leave the corners for last so that you can tuck them neatly before stapling.

5

Put the fabric over the batting. You need 5 inches extra fabric to allow for clean pulling and stapling. Once again, do your long sides first, then short sides, leaving your corners for last, stapling securely.

How to Decorate a Long Sideboard

A sideboard is a piece of furniture created to serve foods and store dishes in a dining room setting. Decorating a sideboard so that it remains functional as well as attractive is not difficult if you stay true to the original purpose. This type of furniture often has a wide drawer beneath the flat surface. It is surrounded by cabinets or drawers to store dishes, linens and other paraphernalia for the dining room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Hang a large framed picture, a mirror or other artwork on the wall at the center of the sideboard. This adds a focal point to the long space, creates balance in the room and draws the eye to the sideboard.

2

Add smaller framed pictures, wall scones or other wall decor around the large artwork. This helps balance the focal point over the long sideboard and creates unity in the space. Use frames on the smaller picture that are similar to or coordinate well with the focal point.

3

Place a lamp, candelabra, a tall vase, a pair of decorative candlesticks or other tall objects to draw attention to the sideboard. Often, it gets hidden behind the dining room table and seems to disappear. Use decor of different heights for an asymmetrical shape to provide interest.

4

Set a footed bowl with fresh or faux magnolias in it to create an old-fashioned ambience on your sideboard. Placing it in the center helps break up the long space. A silver teapot set adds a formal or Victorian touch to this dining room area. Placing a contemporary sculpture in the center of the sideboard adds a modern, eclectic appeal to the room.

How to Draw a Table & Chairs

Drawing common pieces of furniture is less difficult than it may seem at first, particularly when you are equipped with the right materials and a little patience. Whether your subjects are Windsor Back or upright chairs, a long elegant dining or casual kitchen table, you can render these pieces effectively and accurately in a careful drawing. Because tables and chairs are the foundation for many still life and interior works, learning to sketch these domestic staples will greatly enhance your artistic repertoire.

Instructions

Drawing the Table and Chairs

1




Be exact.

Holding your ruler parallel with the horizontal line of your paper, draw a line near the middle of the page, approximately 4 inches long. Draw another line 1 inch below this one, but parallel to it. Allow this line to extend slightly beyond the first line. This will be the top of your table.

2




Draw the angles for your tabletop.

Holding your ruler diagonally, connect the upper and lower lines with a deeply slanting line. This line should create corners on this side of the table, and the bottom corner should jut out farther than the top. Repeat this on the other side of the table, so that the vertical, connecting lines of the table are slanting in the same direction. This is your tabletop.

3

Holding your ruler vertically, perpendicular to the horizontal tabletop lines, draw a line 3 inches from the two front-most corners of the table. Holding the ruler in the same way, draw an identical line 1/8 of an inch to the right or left of the existing line. Connect the lines at the bottom with a short line. These are the front table legs.

4




Erase unwanted lines.

Holding the ruler vertically again, so that it is parallel to the two existing table legs, draw a line 2 inches from the back two corners of the table. As you did in the previous step, draw another identical line 1/8 inch to one side of the first line. Connect the lines at the bottom where they stop. These will be the two rear table legs. Use your eraser to get rid of the lines that go through the tabletop itself.

5




Don't forget a place to sit.

Holding your ruler vertically near the left side of the table, parallel to the table legs, draw two lines 1 inches apart that begin inch above the front of the tabletop and end where the front most table legs end. These lines will be one of the chairs. On the inside of each of these lines, draw a symmetrical line less than 1/8 inch from the existing one. Connect these lines at the top and bottom. These are the back legs of the chair.

6




Be sure your pencil is sharp.

Holding your ruler horizontally and perpendicular to the chair's legs, draw four lines on the upper half of the chair back 1/8 inch apart from one another connecting the two chair legs. Approximately halfway down the chair, draw a horizontal line on the chair back. Holding your ruler diagonally, at the same angle you used with the table sides, draw a 1- inch line out from the chair, towards the back of the table. Draw another line parallel to this coming from the other side of the chair. Connect these with a horizontal line that parallels the first you made. This will be the seat of the chair. Erase all extraneous lines that overlap the chair back.

7




Capture the domestic scene.

From each of the front corners of the chair's seat you have just drawn, using your ruler draw two lines 1/8 inch apart from each other that end approximately 1 inch short of the back legs of the chair. Connect these lines with a short horizontal line at the bottom. These are the front legs of the chair. Erase any extraneous lines that overlap the chair back.

8

Move to the right side of the table with your ruler and pencil. Repeat steps 5-7 to create a second chair at the table. Use your eraser to clean up any smudges or unwanted marks.

How to Anchor a Floating Dining Room

Open floor plans -- whether they're completely open loft spaces or homes without walls separating the public areas -- maximize natural light and facilitate family togetherness. When you don't have designated rooms for living and dining, you have to to divide the larger space into zones and float the furniture. Upholstered sofa and chair backs provide natural barriers that define seating areas, and they're frequently arranged around coffee tables. The dining areas are trickier. If you don't anchor a floating dining room visually, the space tends to look incomplete. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Lay an area rug on the floor to define the dining room space, and then center the dining table on top of it. Visually, the rug separates the dining area from the rest of the room. Choose a rug large enough for all four legs of each dining chair to rest on the rug, even when diners are seated at the table.

2

Hang a chandelier over the center of the dining table, which makes the table look like it's intended for that space. Install it so the lowest part of the chandelier hangs between 30 and 36 inches above the table's top. The widest part of the chandelier should measure approximately one-half the dining table's width, no matter what the table length.

3

Place a console table or horizontally inclined, cube-style room divider at one end of the floating dining room to serve as serving or display space, in place of a traditional server or buffet. If you need storage space, place a regular buffet or server at one end of the dining area, but hide its unfinished back with a bank of tall plants or a screen. If you opt for a screen, choose one with an openwork design, such as lattice, or a half-height style to keep it from completely blocking off the space.

A Guide on How to Make a Dining Table

Making your own dining table is a fun, simple project that can be completed in a weekend. With a few common household tools and supplies that are available at any home improvement store, you can create a simple wooden dining table that you can be proud to show off. Building a dining table is a perfect project for a beginner wood worker, because of its simple construction. A table is basically a top, four legs and a structure to support the table in its upright position. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Determine what size table you want to make. Choose your table top first, and lay it out with the underside up. Measure a square in the center of the top to determine the length of the 2-by-4 wood pieces. The 2-by-4 pieces will determine the size of the table legs and corner supports. When purchasing the materials, ask for assistance to double-check the measurements to ensure everything fits together tightly.

2

Lay out all the materials in your work area; lay them down on a tarp to protect the wood while you work. Start by placing your table top upside down, and set your 2-by-4 pieces in place as you measured them. The square made with the wood pieces will support the table legs and keep the structure stable. The square should be tight, and centered within the table-top space. This is called the top rail.

3

Secure the 3-inch wood pieces to the inside of the top rail you made with the 2-by-4 pieces. The wood pieces will sit on the inside of the top rail and attach to both the top rail and the table top to hold them together. Place the wood pieces on the inside of the top rail, centered in the middle of each rail. Using your drill, screw the wood supports into the table top, then to the rail. Do each board one by one so you can ensure a proper fit.

4

Place a corner support in each of the four corners of the top rail, and use a drill to screw both sides of the corner support to the adjacent rails. Repeat this for each corner of the top rail.

5

Drill a hole through the center of each corner support. The holes will be used to attach the legs to each corner of the top rail. To ensure you drill the hole in the correct position, place the leg first as a guide and mark with a pencil where you will need to drill.

6

One at a time, attach a leg to a corner support using a coach bolt. The coach bolt will be inserted through the leg and into the corner support. The bolt should be secured with the cap of the coach bolt. Once the legs are secure, turn your table over -- you're finished.

Drafting Tools for Landscape Design

Sophisticated or simple, the successful landscape project is not an accident. From the initial consultation and taking of measurements to the installation and maintenance, the project requires a discerning eye, a competent hand and proper drafting tools. The list is long, but many of the tools are available in the corner cupboard or the home's art supply drawer. While professional drafting tools are pricey, there are generic substitutes for most every item on the professional landscape designer's list of necessary drafting tools. Does this Spark an idea?

Drafting Table and Architectural Light

A professional draftsperson sits at a desk for long hours, drawing plans to scale for presentation to the client. The table tilts to accommodate the various angles required for correct sketching. The architectural light used at the drafting table is attached to the writing surface with brackets. The neck of the lamp is jointed to accommodate the various angles at which direct light is required. Investigate the policy of the local university on public use of this type of specialized equipment at the student library. In lieu of an actual tilting table, situate the drawing supplies, paper and a desk lamp on the largest available table. Avoid interruption of the drawing process. Schedule a minimum of six hours for initial conceptualization and progressive sketches.

Mechanical Pencils, Pens and Drafting Paper

The professional drafting artist requires the best pencils, pens and paper. The layperson may make a substitute, primarily because there is only one project at hand. There is no need for the layperson to spend precious budget dollars for professional drafting accouterments. Look for practical and affordable mechanical pencils. Buy a set to accommodate the need for different gauges of graphite. Look for the same qualities in a set of water color pens. Substitute a notebook of graph paper for the expensive drafting paper used by the professional landscape artist.

French Curve Templates and Rulers

Very few professional designs of any sort are accomplished without a complete set of templates. A favored template among landscape artists is the French curve. The outdoor space of the garden permits more freedom of visual movement than that of the confined space within four walls. Hence, the French curve template provides a format of sketching flow envisioned in the form of the garden maze, trained shrubbery and lattice work. Look for templates with various sizes of graceful scrolls. Rulers and other measuring devices are necessary from the moment of project evaluation to the sketching process and at the final installation. Purchase at least two sizes of metal rulers for use while sketching.

How to Decorate My Formal Dining & Living Room

Decorating a formal living and dining room may seem like a daunting task because those are usually the first two rooms a guest sees when entering your home. If you plan out the decor in small steps, however, there isn't much to it. Think about how you use the rooms, your decorating style and preferences. Your entire house should reflect you and your family, your personalities and your lives---not what a magazine or someone else says it should look like. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Select a color scheme or basic theme and decorating style to use in the two rooms. Each room should have something distinct to identify the activities that take place there, but they should also flow together harmoniously in their decor. That's where color and style come in. For example, a modern white, dark brown and lime color scheme could work in both rooms, but the actual furniture and accessories would be different in each room.

2

Paint the walls in the lighter or neutral color in your color scheme. The color should flow through both rooms and not detract from the color of the rest of the house. If the entire house is painted in the same neutral color, consider painting one wall in the dining and living room a different color as an accent wall.

3

Position the furniture in each room for optimal use and entertaining. For example, if your formal living room is a place for adults to gather and talk, arrange sofas and chairs in groupings that allow for easy conversation. The furniture should also be positioned in a manner that allows for an easy and natural flow of traffic. Common formal living room furniture includes seating, tables and sometimes bookshelves. Formal dining rooms can consist of a dining table, chairs and china cabinet or buffet.

4

Add other basic elements to each room. These include rugs, window treatments and lighting. The light fixtures should adhere to the type of furniture you have and your decorating style. For example, a grand, antique chandelier would look out of place over a sleek, modern dining table. Rugs, if you include them, should pick up any colors that you're concentrating on in the decor of the two rooms. Window treatments should match other elements, even if they are smaller accessories.

5

Accessorize both rooms to pull the decor together. If you're using a formal red and gold color scheme, for example, hang prints or artwork that incorporate those colors, place red and gold pillows on the sofa and use red and gold place mats, dishes and candles on the dining table. Common accessories for a formal living and dining room include houseplants (silk is fine), candles, artwork, mirrors, vases, flowers, pillows, statues and other decorative items.

How to Paint a Sofa Table

Painting a sofa table doesn't necessarily have to involve hours of prep work or complicated painting techniques. Avoid the possibility of visual brush strokes or expensive paints and stains by using spray paint to refinish your table. Spray paint comes in nearly every color imaginable and doesn't require pricey brushes or messy paint trays to apply. It is also budget friendly, so if you tire of the color after a few months, respraying your sofa table is a very cost-effective option. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Fill in holes, chipped veneer and any other imperfections in the table with wood filler. Allow the filler to dry completely, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Sand until smooth using fine-grade sandpaper

2

Sand the entire table using medium-grade sandpaper. Since you will be repainting and using primer, only a light sanding is required. Sand just enough to roughen the finish so it will accept the paint.

3

Wipe down the table with a damp cloth to remove all traces of dust.

4

Spray on a coat of primer. Use long strokes, going back and forth evenly to avoid drips. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions -- typically 24 hours.

5

Spray on at least two coats of interior spray paint in the same manner as the primer. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat.

6

Allow the table to dry for 48 to 72 hours before use. Make sure the paint is completely dry before setting anything on the surface.

What Tools Are Used for Technical Drawings?

Inventors, engineers and architects use technical drawings to create master plans or blueprints that are used as working guides to completing projects. A February 2008 article in Smithsonian Magazine suggests that elementary technical drawings scratched into the walls were used by the architect who created the Parthenon at Athens, Greece.

Drafting Tables

Draftsmen create technical drawings using a tilting table. Parallel rulers on each side of the drawing surface align the drawing paper and provide horizontal and vertical guides for drawing.

Rulers and Squares

Using a T-square and clear plastic triangle, draftsmen create lines. Common triangles they use are an eight inch triangle with forty five and ninety degree sides and a ten inch triangle with 30- and 60-degree sides. Draftsmen measure dimensions with triangular shaped rulers that have different scales on each of three surfaces.

Curve Templates and Compasses

Draftsmen create curves using irregular curve templates made of clear rigid plastic. They draw circles and portions of circles called arcs with an adjustable compass and calculate angles from 1 degree to 180 degrees with clear plastic protractors.

Lettering Guides

Lettering templates guide the draftsman in the execution of uniform lettering throughout the drawing. As a matter of common practice most creators of technical drawings hand letter in personally developed styles that identify their work as clearly as fingerprints.

Drawing Pencils

Most draftsmen use sharp 2H and 4H pencils for drawing. Pencils may be wooden or mechanical pencils with replaceable leads. They utilize erasing shields and soft gum or nylon erasers to make corrections.

Inking Pens

Technical drawings created in pencil are usually over-traced with ink to render durable final drawings. Early inking pens consisted of a mechanical device with an adjustable nib. Modern disposable inking pens have built in ink reservoirs and are available in many point widths.

Drafting Machines

Early drafting machines date back to Italy in 1913. Modern drafting machines combine horizontal and vertical rulers or scales and a protractor head that allows adjustment of the rulers to required angles for drawing. The device is permanently attached to the drawing board and uses a pair of connected arms to move freely around the drawing surface.

CAD: Computer Aided Design

Drawings and designs using computer software drastically reduce hand and machine drafting, especially in the professional sectors. Lower drawing cost and greater degrees of accuracy dictate increasing use of CAD as a primary tool for creating technical drawings. Large computer screens for creating designs and plotters for printing large technical drawings are replacing traditional technical drawing tools. Colleges and trade schools offer CAD training to a growing number of specializing technicians who are replacing conventional draftsmen in the drafting room.

The Best Glass Dining Tables

Determined by its purchaser, glass dining room tables come either pre-cut or cut shaped-to-order. According to American Glass Research's website, appropriate glass quality is based on the absence of inclusions or small stones during the processing of the glass. Hand-crafted, etched designs, texturized and colored glass are all variations of what can be ordered, created and utilized in the home. A glass dining room table provides functionality in that it's easy to clean and care for if maintained daily, as well as offering a sleek, sophisticated design addition to any room. Different thicknesses, depths and widths are available for purchase. Make sure to inspect your glass table for clarity before purchasing. Does this Spark an idea?

Fly Collection

The Fly Collection offers a sleek, sophisticated rectangular shaped glass dining room table that seats four to six people comfortably. The glass top is supported by an "X" shaped contemporary wood base, positioned in art deco form. The wide glass top functions as a stabilizing tool, extending past the base. It also balancing out the look of the unit. The wood base provides the sturdiness to support the thick top. Clear and frosted glass are available. This table is imported from Italy and measures 82 inches in width, 46 inches in diameter and 29 1/2 inches in height.

Fly Collection
sku342201
warehousedirectusa.com

Viva Modern Form Dining Table

The Viva Modern Form Dining Table combines a modern looking style with the functionality of a heavy glass table. Its rectangular shape comfortably seats 4-6 people. It is comprised of three basic elements: a large top, sized 71 inches in width and 39 inches in diameter and the two base unit structures, both also comprised completely of the same sturdy 1/2-inch glass and measuring 29 inches in height. The base pieces are bent to a 90 degree angle and can be arranged pointing in or out. This entire unit weighs 165 pounds.

Viva Modern Form Dining Table
IDDR-VIV-00016
thediningroomspace.com

Glass Design Concepts

Glass Design Concepts provides architectural and decorative glass for design, fabrication and installation. They're a one-stop source for procuring the glass of your choice as well as crafting the dining room table you desire. They carry insulated glass units, tempered and heat-strengthened glass, spandrel glass and a variety of other high quality glass. Glass comes in various thicknesses, colors and textured looks. This option provides a one-of-a-kind dining room table.

Glass Design Concepts
371 N La Cienega Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90048
(310) 675-0076
glassdesignconcepts.com

How to Draw a Kitchen Table

The kitchen table is the centerpiece of any kitchen, whether it's being used as a gathering place for family meals (or preparing those meals) or any number of purposes. The tables in many people's kitchens vary as much as the families that use them. Some are more contemporary, some modern. When it comes to drawing your own kitchen table (or the one of your dreams), simply keep in mind basic geometric shapes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Lay your ruler out flat and horizontal in the upper middle of your paper. Use the ruler's edge as a guide to draw a straight horizontal line, sized according to how large or small you want your final table to appear. This line serves as the table's surface, the top edge farthest away from the viewer.

2

Slide the ruler down a few inches; since the final image is 3-D, the further the next line is away from the first line your drew, the more table top surface area is exposed. Slide the ruler down according to how much area you want visible, and then draw another horizontal line. Make this line longer on each side than the one above it.

3

Turn the ruler to a 45 degree angle with the right side angled up to the right. Slide the ruler over to the left hand side of the two lines you drew. Draw a 45 degree angled line that connects the two horizontal lines together, and then slide the ruler over to the right hand side, turn it so it angles up to the left, and draw another 45 degree connecting line. You should now have a trapezoidal shape on your paper.

4

Measure just slightly below the longest horizontal line and draw another, similar line just below it, and then add two small vertical lines that connect these two lines together. This gives the appearance of depth. Now you have your table top surface. Measure in just slightly from the right and left corners of the table top and draw a vertical line on each side, making the table legs.

5

Flesh out the legs of the table by drawing adjacent lines to these lines and connecting the two lines at the bottom with a horizontal line (they'll appear as very long, thin rectangles when done). Draw thinner rectangle legs just inside of these legs, making these shorter than the ones in the foreground, giving the appearance of distance.

6

After drawing your table with a pencil, you may get a more finished, defined look by going back over your drawing with black ink. You may also add any decorative details you like.

How to Set a Formal Dining Room Table

Preparing for a formal dinner party at your home can be a bit mind-boggling with the preparation of the food, dessert and drinks. Worrying about the proper placement of the table settings should not be a concern. Specific rules and guidelines exist so that you can entertain honored guest and VIPs in your home without worrying about the etiquette of your table setting. After setting your formal dining room table, you should be able to relax and be a gracious host for your guests. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Place the charger or largest plate on the table first. It will remain in place until the main entree is served and then the two plates will be exchanged.

2

Locate the largest fork, or dinner fork, directly to the left of the charger plate.

3

Position other forks, such as the salad or fish fork directly to the right of the dinner fork. If you are serving salad first, it should be farthest to the right, then the fish fork and dinner fork.

4

Place the dinner knife directly to the right of the dinner plate with the cutting edge toward the plate. If you are using a salad or fish knife, position it to the right of the dinner knife. Always remember that utensils are used from the outside in, so anything for the first course should be the farthest from the dinner plate. This is also a good step to remember when dining at fine restaurants or at a formal dinner party yourself.

5

Place soup or fruit spoons to the right of the dinner knife if you will serve these dishes as a first course.

6

Keep in mind that an oyster fork is the only fork that is ever placed on the right side of the dinner plate, according to the Emily Post website.

7

Position the butter plate above the forks on the left side of the place setting.

8

Position the butter knife diagonally on top of the butter plate. The handle should be facing right and the blade facing down.

9

Place the water glass or goblet directly above the dinner knives. You can then position glasses to the right of it, typically with the smallest glass to the farthest right, such as a sherry or aperitif glass or coffee cup.

10

Lay the napkin on top of the charger or dinner plate.

How to Buy an Art Table

Art tables are used by a variety of business and individuals for drafting, model building and other graphic art projects. While these projects can be completed on a fixed, flat-top table, the adjustability of an art table make it a better choice. Art tables come in a number of sizes, and people need to select their art tables based on the size of the work space and the adjustability that they need to complete their projects.

Instructions

1

Determine what the art table will be used for, i.e. drafting or layouts. The projects that will be completed on the table's top will determine the dimensions and options that the table needs to have. For example, drafting projects tend to need a larger work space then graphic design projects, as blue prints tend to be printed on wide-format paper.

2

Measure the space where the art table will be located. You need to measure both the available floor space and the height clearance in the office where the table will be located. Make sure you leave enough space to move around the room and allow clearance around other obstacles in the room. For example, if there is an outlet located on the wall where you want to put the table, you will need to take measurements to make sure the cross support beams on the desk won't block access to the outlet. Furthermore, if the workspace has a slanted wall, you need to make sure the desk will fit under the slant.

3

Consider the aesthetics of the art table. Just because this is a functional piece of furniture doesn't mean it has to be ugly. Today you have many frame designs and colors to choose among. For example, many art tables come with frame colors of silver, black, white and tan. Table tops can either be colored the same as the frame, or they can have a unique finish. You can select an art table that has a black frame and a black table top, or you can opt for the black frame with a wood grained finish table top. The goal is to select a table that will complement the other colors and furniture in the workspace.

4

Select an art table that has the table top positions that you need. For example, most table tops will rotate up at various degrees to make drawing and drafting easier to do, while others will not only rotate up, but they also have an extension rod or scissor-lift joint that allows you to rotate and raise the table top. Other features include a side computer stand, a file cabinet, drawers and shelving units.

How to Set a Table for Formal Dinning

Setting a table for a formal dining experience can be very rewarding, particularly if your guests comment on the arrangement. It is important to match your food choices to the type of dining experience that you will have, so a formal dinner will consist of formal food choices, as opposed to a buffet-type dinner. Select a linen tablecloth with matching cloth napkins and an elegant centerpiece to complete the arrangement for your formal dining experience. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Allow 24 inches for each place setting for a formal dining experience. Place a dinner plate in the middle of the 24-inch area, with service plate in the center of the dinner plate and a soup or salad bowl in the center of the service plate. A bread and butter plate with a butter knife across it should be placed at the top-left of the dinner plate. All of the dishes should match exactly or complement one another nicely.

2

Place the following silverware to the left of the dinner plate in the following order: dinner fork, salad fork and cocktail fork. On the right side of the dinner plate, arrange the following silverware in this order: steak knife with cutting edge facing the plate, fish knife, soup spoon and teaspoon. If you aren't serving a particular course, you can leave the silverware for that course off and shift the remaining silverware so there isn't a gap.

3

Add a drinking glass directly above the silverware on the right side of the plate, and a wine glass to the right of the drinking glass. If you are serving different types of wine, the glasses should be arranged in this order, over the silverware to the right of the dinner plate: drinking glass, red wine glass, white wine glass and champagne flute. Bring a coffee cup and saucer out at the end of the meal, when coffee or tea is served.

4

Fold the cloth napkins. Lay the napkin in front of you and fold it in half diagonally, then turn the napkin with the long side to the left. Pull the far corner of the napkin down to the right to form a set of two points, a few inches apart. The top crease should be about 1 1/2 inches below the upper-right corner. Bring the upper-right corner down to create a third point at the bottom. Tuck the napkins into the soup bowl or the wine glass for an elegant look.

How to Make a Parsons Table

With its clean lines and simple design, the Parsons table has become a timeless piece of furniture. Attributed to Jean-Michel Frank from New York's Parsons School of Design, this table was first introduced in the 1920s. Add style to any room by making a Parsons table.

Instructions

1

Cut a 30 by 20-inch piece of -inch thick medium-density fiberboard (MDF) for the table top. Next, cut three inch-wide pieces of MDF, two 20-inches long and two 30-inches long, being sure to miter the ends. These will be used as the rails on the sides of the table to give the illusion of a very thick top without the weight.

2

Use -inch thick poplar boards for the legs, cutting them to 19 inches in length for a coffee table height. Cut a total of 12 pieces, or 3 pieces for each leg. These will be the cores of the legs.

3

Align 3 pieces of the wood together and apply a thin layer of wood glue. Put in 1 -inch nails to help secure.

4

Cut the frame of the legs out of MDF or plywood 16-inches long. Two should be 3-inches wide and the other two should be 2 -inches wide, making pieces for each leg, or 16 pieces total. Attach these to the leg cores with glue and then nail. There should be 3 inches of leg core above this frame.

5

Glue the two shorter pieces of rail to two of the leg cores, then nail. Make sure they are flush and then left to dry. Attach the longer sides of rail once the glue has set for the shorter sides in the same manner and let dry.

6

Attach the table top to the frame with glue. Use finishing nails to be sure it is secure. Make the edges flush with the rails by using a flush trimming bit on a router. Allow glue to dry.

7

Touch up any nail holes and imperfections with wood filler and let dry. Sand the table, prime and paint any color desired.

How to Refurbish Old Dining Room Chairs

If you have old dining chairs that are still functionally sound, you can refurbish them to give them a fresh or even antique look. Normal wear and tear causes the original finish to fade and expose the bare wood underneath. This makes the dining chairs unsightly, and they may even look out-of-place with the table or other decor. With just a few items and some common hand tools, you can refurbish your old dining chairs and give them new life. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Spread dropcloths over the floor in an area that is well ventilated, such as a detached garage, and place the old dining chairs on top of the dropcloths.

2

Squirt a little liquid degreasing dish soap into a bucket and fill with warm water. Throw a sponge or two into the bucket, allowing the sponges to absorb the warm, soapy water.

3

Clean each dining chair thoroughly, then rinse out the bucket and refill with plain water. Wring out the sponges until all the soap is gone, then rinse and wipe down each dining chair with plain water and let air dry.

4

Put on rubber gloves and drip a little mineral spirits onto a clean cloth. Wipe down each dining chair liberally, until the bare wood is completely exposed. In addition, use a steel wool pad to get the old finish off the wood. Let the mineral spirits evaporate off the dining chairs.

5

Abrade each dining chair with 120-grit sandpaper to remove any of the old finish that may be left and to rough the surface. Sand in the same direction as the wood grain as much as possible.

6

Wipe down each chair with a tack cloth to clean the surface. Brush on a coat of gel stain with a paintbrush. Let the gel stain set for 10 to 15 minutes, then use clean cloths to wipe away excess gel stain. Rub over the remaining gel stain with clean steel wool to prep the wood for the finish.

7

Apply a coat of polyurethane or varnish to each chair using a paintbrush or clean cloths, to finish. Let the polyurethane or varnish dry for about four hours or as long as directed by the manufacturer before using your refurbished dining chairs.

How to Decorate an Open-Plan Lounge Dining Room

An open-plan home has several advantages, including the rooms' adaptability for entertaining. However, the open-plan lounge and dining room combination provides a unique challenge for the homeowner who is accustomed to decorating each room individually. There are a few guidelines to keep in mind that can make the space retain its open feeling and its flexibility while maximizing the individual rooms' character and functionality. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Walk through the space. Examine the way traffic flows, such as the typical pathway from the kitchen to the dining area. Stand in various corners and study how the space looks from different angles. Check out the path of natural light as well, so that you can maximize daylight brightness but avoid dining with the evening sun shining in people's faces. Determine which areas are best for groups of people to gather and which are best for privacy.

2

Consider methods for unifying the space. Maintain a single decor theme for the open space, be it shabby chic or nouveau bohemian. The whole space need not be absolutely coordinated, but wall and trim colors should complement one another. A change in flooring, from tile to wood or carpet is fine, but there should not be clashing patterns.

3

Create individual spaces amid the open space. You need not block off the rooms completely, but you also should not maintain a huge open center with furniture clinging to the surrounding walls. Instead, set up your lounge or living area by placing armchairs, love seat and the couch around a coffee table or an assortment of small cocktail tables. The dining area may consist of a formal dining table and chairs, or of bar stools next to a counter.

4

Accessorize the spaces. Open spaces do best with less clutter, but certain accessories can help define the lounge and dining areas. A nice throw rug can help set off the living space from the eating space. Good lighting over the dining table and floor lamps near the armchairs in the living area emphasize each space's unique purpose.

5

Add some visual interest to the walls. Open floor plans can tend to be minimalist. A major painting or some interesting textiles can liven up an otherwise bland backdrop. If you only have smaller pieces, try framing them in similar styles and grouping them for a greater visual impact.

Building a Wooden Dining Room Table

About Tables

Building a dining room table can be done any way you like from a variety of parts. You can build an elaborate, or simple, table depending on your wood skills. The benefit is a great addition to your home. It will also save you hundreds of dollars over buying a table from a furniture store.

The Design

Designing a dining room table can be simple or complex. You can use software to help you build and design your new table. Three-dimensional software for designing homes and furniture will give you a complete picture of what your new table will look like before you even dust off a hammer. It also saves a lot of time and ensures better results.

What is Needed

To build a dining room table, you will need a circular saw, drill and power driver. The legs of the table will need to be assembled using strong screws and glue. The table top can be made from a single sheet of hardwood, or boards that are glued and fitted together to form a flat surface. The table top can be glued to the frame with adhesive and screwed in place for additional strength.

Advanced Building

Building a more complex dining room table requires skills with a router and knowledge of jointing. Legs can be shaped and joints can be cut into them to attach the legs to the frame. The router can also be used to bevel or shape the edges of the table top. You can learn to precision-fit hard wood slats together to form the table top as well. This is how more expensive dining room tables are built.

Open Floor Plan Furniture Layout Ideas

Some people dream of the large spaces and the fluidity between them that an open floor plan provides. Others curse them for creating cavernous rooms that can prove challenging to decorate. However, there are some simple design and decor tricks you can employ to make an open floor plan function well and look stylish at the same time. Does this Spark an idea?

Types

Several types of open space floor plans create diverse design challenges and opportunities. Combination live/work spaces often leave the ground floor more open for projects, business needs or art, and an upper living area that may also have open design features. Urban architecture often features large industrial spaces renovated into lofts with open design elements such as wall-less kitchens. Many contemporary homes include an open design floor plan combining the living room with a dining area and sometimes the kitchen.

Function

Plan furniture layout with function in mind. Rooms that see the most entertaining should offer flexible seating arrangements, space for expansion and conversation seating. A dramatic dining room table can be a focal point piece of furniture, especially if set under three pendant lights or a funky chandelier. Use benches or mismatched chairs for a bohemian look or go retro with '50s-inspired diner chairs. Nested chairs in a corner allow for quick additions to seating for dinner parties. Set up your living area with a love seat and an armchair in an L-shaped arrangement around a cocktail table or round coffee table.

Features

Furniture layout in open floor plans should punctuate the space. For example, a low ottoman and scattering of floor cushions transforms a simple picture window into a lounge. An overlooked corner becomes a breakfast nook with the addition of a bistro table set. Throw rugs, accent walls and wall art provide bright spots of color and establish a vignette within the larger space.

Warning

Avoid the classic decorating trap of pushing all furniture against the walls. Open floor plans require some definition, so try a couch to act as a divider between the dining room area and the living room area. If you prefer something more subtle, a low bench covered with throw pillows or a shoji screen offer lower profiles and are more easily moved. Add some surprising elements in the middle of an open space, such as a floor mural of carpet tile or an ornately engraved Moroccan coffee table.

Misconceptions

Many people assume an open space floor plan functions best if all walls have the same color. However, playing with color and accents can create visual pop and change the overall effect of the furniture layout.

A bright white ceiling adds a soaring sensation that you can complement with tall, skinny shelves, exposed rafters and furniture circled around picture window views.

A darker ceiling shade lends a more intimate feeling, which you can echo with soft surfaces and textiles scattered throughout the space.

Accent walls in poppy orange, lime green, cheerful periwinkle or sunshine yellow can establish a dramatic backdrop for a stark white couch in front of a minimalist coffee table or a pair of armchairs with a bold graphic fabric on top of a bright rug.